- Near-misses in slot machines increase play persistence despite being less pleasant than losses, per 2009 fMRI studies. - Legal near-miss algorithms in slot machines persist, despite psychological harm concerns raised in 1988. - Loot boxes in games like Candy Crush mimic gambling mechanics, linking to problem gambling in youth. - Gambling design elements now appear in non-gambling games, with minimal regulatory scrutiny in most regions.

- Researchers created the world's most detailed 3D brainstem atlas at cellular resolution, combining MRI and microscopic data for seamless whole-brain to cell-level analysis. - The atlas bridges medical imaging and cellular pathology, offering insights into diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke by comparing healthy vs. diseased tissue. - Built from post-mortem tissue sections, it enables affordable, high-resolution mapping, advancing neuroscience through engineering and computational integration. - Available freely online, the atlas aids neuroscientists, clinicians, and surgeons in studying brain disorders and improving surgical precision.

Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article: • Billions of dollars are being invested in reversing aging, with scientists exploring ways to return cells to a younger state. • The focus is on experimental treatments that aim to reverse aging, but it's unclear how far off they are or if they will actually work. • A recent discussion explored the new focus on longevity, featuring speakers Mary Beth Griggs and Jessica Hamzelou. • Chemical reprogramming is being considered as the next step in the quest for youth, which involves using technology to restore cells' youthful state.

Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article: • Motif Neurotech has received FDA approval to trial a brain-computer interface implant to treat depression. • The device is implanted in the skull and delivers electrical stimulation to target the central executive network, which is underactive in major depressive disorder. • The study will enroll around 10 participants and aims to confirm the safety of the implant procedure and device over a 12-month period, as well as track meaningful reductions in depression symptoms and monitor quality of life, anxiety, and cognitive function.

Here are four clear bullet points summarizing the article: • Science Corporation, a startup founded by former Neuralink president Max Hodak, has enlisted top neurobiologist Dr. Murat Günel to lead the first US human trials for its biohybrid brain-computer interface. • The device will combine lab-grown neurons with electronics and be implanted in patients' brains, allowing for communication between computers and humans; the goal is to treat diseases like macular degeneration and Parkinson's disease. • The company plans to test its advanced sensor without embedded neurons in a living human brain, with Günel advising the team as they prepare for clinical trials; the device will be implanted inside the skull but rest on top of the brain. • The ultimate goal is to create reliable communication links between computers and humans, enabling new senses and treatments for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, which currently has limited treatment options.

- Stroke causes 2/3 of survivors to lose hand/arm function; Epia Neuro uses a brain implant and motorized glove to restore grip, targeting daily independence. - Epia’s system translates neural signals into hand movements via AI, leveraging neuroplasticity to rebuild motor pathways post-stroke. - Scalability challenges persist, with Epia’s implant requiring minimal surgery and future upgrades, contrasting with other BCI approaches like Neuralink’s robot or Synchron’s stent. - First-in-human trials planned for 2026, building on prior studies showing mixed success with wearable BCI devices like IpsiHand.

- Galen Buckwalter, a quadriplegic, received brain implants to decode movement and restore sensation, enabling him to create music with his thoughts. - The implants, developed by Blackrock Neurotech, allow him to control computers, feel touch, and produce musical tones via neural signals. - Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are being explored for restoring mobility, but Buckwalter highlights their potential for creative expression beyond functional use. - His musical compositions, used in his band Siggy’s album “Wirehead,” showcase BCI’s role in art, blending technology with personal creativity.

- TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team delivering timely, accurate tech news to The Times of India readers. - Coverage includes gadgets, AI, cybersecurity, social media platforms, and digital trends. - Focus areas: reviews, analysis, exclusive reports, and breaking tech stories. - Prioritizes authenticity and relevance in reporting on technology's impact on society.

- China approved NEO, the first commercial brain chip to treat paralysis, translating thoughts into robotic hand movements. - The implant, about a coin size, uses electrodes to detect brain signals and control a mechanical glove for daily tasks. - 32 users tested NEO without adverse effects, marking a breakthrough in brain-computer interface (BCI) treatment. - China’s BCI strategy aims to lead globally by 2028, promoting both invasive and non-invasive device development.

- Keshav Agarwal has worked at The Times of India since June 2014, currently based in Pilibhit. - Specializes in forest/wildlife, environment, water resources, agriculture, and sugar/ethanol industries. - Also reports on health, education, development, and crime. - Covers diverse topics including health, education, development, and crime.

- Science Corp. raised $230M in Series C, valuing it at $1.5B. Focus on PRIMA, a chip restoring vision for macular degeneration, with 80% trial success. - Regulatory path: CE mark in EU by mid-2026, FDA discussions ongoing. Germany likely first market. - Expanding trials to Stargardt and retinitis pigmentosa. Launching Vessel, an organ preservation platform. - Investors include Lightspeed, Khosla, Y Combinator. Total funding now $490M, 150 employees.

- Rodney Gorham, with ALS, has used a Synchron BCI implant for 5 years, enabling home device control via thoughts. - Synchron’s Stentrode, a mesh tube in a blood vessel, aims for FDA trials to treat paralysis. - BCIs face challenges in measuring effectiveness, relying on decoding brain signals into actions. - Gorham’s input helped develop Apple’s Switch Control and home automation features.

- China’s BCI industry is scaling with policy support, clinical trials, and insurance coverage, aiming for global competitiveness by 2030. - A national roadmap and 11.6 billion yuan ($165M) fund accelerate BCI development, targeting technical milestones and supply chain growth. - Factors driving progress include cross-department policy alignment, vast clinical resources, mature manufacturing, and strategic investments. - China’s BCI market is projected to exceed $530M in 2025, with startups challenging U.S. leaders like Neuralink and expanding noninvasive approaches.