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Tuesday, January 6, 2026
TopicHuman brain

Topic: Human brain

Adolescence ends at 32 according to new study. But it only applies to ‘Western’ brains

In the Western world, 32 is understood to be the “strongest” turning point of the lifespan. It is the beginning of adulthood. White matter volume hits its peak at 29.

Are we just mice with culture? An Austria lab is probing live human brain cells

Scientists in Austria are studying live human brain cells and comparing them to those of mice. Their findings raise questions about memory, culture, and what makes us ‘special’.

AI tools like ChatGPT aid performance, but MIT essay-writing study shows they take a ‘cognitive’ toll

The study, conducted among a small group of people aged 18-39, shows using such tools may impact overall brain activity over time. Paper is pre-print, yet to be peer-reviewed.

In breakthrough study, TIFR team uses psychedelic to identify neurons that modulate anxiety

Published in Neuron journal, the study led by Tata Institute of Fundamental Research also demonstrates the potential to reduce anxiety without the use of psychedelic drug.

Scientists from UC Davis implanted electrodes in ALS patient’s brain, and he found his voice again

ScientiFix, our weekly feature, offers you a summary of the top global science stories of the week, with links to their sources.

40% amphibians facing extinction. Leading reason isn’t disease or habitat loss anymore

ScientiFix, our weekly feature, offers you a summary of the top global science stories of the week, with links to their sources.

Musk’s Neuralink to test brain-chip in humans after FDA nod. How it’s meant to work & key concerns

The company aims to use brain-computer interface technology to treat brain diseases & enhance human capabilities with a chip implanted in the brain. But it faces ethical & scientific challenges.

Your curls keep you cool! Scientists find curly hair evolved to protect brain from overheating

Study by US, UK and Australian universities published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on 6 June looks closely at why hair evolved in otherwise ‘hairless’ human body.

On Camera

A 2-hour op, precise extradition—what Maduro’s capture tells us about modern US military

Despite multiple agencies being involved, the US could maintain a clear chain of command. This is something India should consider too, as it defines the theatre command structures.

Trump threatens India with fresh tariffs on Russian oil, calls PM Modi a ‘good guy’

The latest comment comes as New Delhi and Washington have yet to sign a trade agreement. India’s purchase of Russian oil has reduced, but Moscow remains top source for crude.

S-300, Su-30 jets, T-72 tanks: Inventory of Venezuela’s largely Russian-origin arsenal

Venezuela also boasts of a diverse portfolio of unmanned aerial vehicles capable of carrying out surveillance, reconnaissance and being employed for kinetic purposes as well.

A year-end Mea Culpa in National Interest—The Army-Islam combo doesn’t kill democracy

Many of you might think I got something so wrong in National Interest pieces written this year. I might disagree! But some deserve a Mea Culpa. I’d deal with the most recent this week.