brain molecule may

Brain molecule may improve sleep

ByJustpaste.in

Millions of people around the world struggle with insomnia and other sleep problems.

Now scientists in China have identified a natural brain molecule that may help explain how the body knows when it is time to sleep.

The discovery could lead to safer and more effective sleep medicines in the future.

The study published in Nature Neuroscience found that a natural molecule called tryptamine (TrpA) plays an important role in increasing the body’s need for sleep.

Researchers say this molecule sends signals to the brain that it is time to rest. Experts explained that good sleep is essential for overall health.

During sleep the brain organizes memories stores information and removes waste that builds up during the day.

However many people do not get enough sleep because of insomnia stress depression anxiety or problems with the body’s internal clock also known as the circadian rhythm.

To better understand the process researchers studied mice which are active at night and pigs which are active during the day.

Using a special fluorescent sensor they measured the amount of tryptamine in the animals’ cerebrospinal fluid at different times.

The scientists found that the longer the animals stayed awake the higher their tryptamine levels became.

This suggests that the molecule reflects the body’s natural “sleep pressure” the growing need for sleep after spending many hours awake.

The team also discovered that active nerve cells release tryptamine while the body is awake.

The molecule then attaches to a receptor called GPR139 which activates sleep promoting nerve cells in an area of the brain known as the hypothalamic preoptic area.

In the next stage of the study researchers tested experimental compounds that activated the GPR139 receptor.

The results showed that the animals slept longer and experienced better quality sleep.

Scientists say finding the same results in both mice and pigs suggests that this biological system may also exist in humans.

If future studies confirm this the discovery could help develop new treatments for insomnia and other sleep disorders that are safer more effective and have fewer side effects than many current sleep medications.

Similar Posts

  • |

    August 12 total solar eclipse, will it be visible in Pakistan?

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad – A rare total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026 attracting the attention of astronomy enthusiasts around the world. However, will it be visible in Pakistan? The solar eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan as it will be nighttime in the country during the key phases of the eclipse. According to Pakistan Standard Time, the partial eclipse will begin at 8:34 PM on August 12 while the total eclipse will begin at 9:58 PM. The eclipse will reach its peak at 10:46 PM and the total eclipse will end at 11:34 PM. Where will solar eclipse be visible? On August 12, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun causing a total solar eclipse to be visible in Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia and parts of Spain and Portugal. A partial solar eclipse will be visible across various parts of North America, Canada, most of Europe and northwestern Africa. According to NASA, the Sun will set during the eclipse in western parts of Europe and Africa creating a unique spectacle in which the solar eclipse will coincide with sunset. How can solar eclipse be watched live? NASA will also provide an online live broadcast of this astronomical event which can be watched online from Pakistan on the night of August 12. Astronomers have warned people in areas where the eclipse will be visible never to look directly at the Sun without specially designed solar-viewing glasses as doing so can cause severe damage to the eyes.

  • 5 Morning drinks for weight loss

    ByJustpaste.in

    Many people think losing weight requires expensive diet plans strict food restrictions or complicated meal programs. However health experts say that eating a balanced diet staying physically active and starting your day with healthy drinks may help support your weight loss journey. While there is no magic drink for weight loss some morning beverages may help improve digestion boost metabolism and keep you feeling full for longer. Here are five drinks that are commonly recommended to enjoy on an empty stomach. •Herbal detox tea A cup of herbal detox tea in the morning may help wake up your digestive system and support metabolism.  It is often made with natural ingredients such as dandelion ginger and licorice root. Experts say dandelion may help support healthy weight management while ginger can improve digestion and increase metabolism. Licorice root may also help reduce hunger making it easier to avoid unnecessary snacking. •Turmeric water Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Since long term inflammation may be linked to weight gain adding turmeric to your daily routine may offer health benefits. Mix a small amount of turmeric powder into warm water. You can also add honey or lemon for taste. Drinking it in the morning may help improve digestion support metabolism and reduce inflammation. •Warm water with ghee In Ayurveda ghee is considered a healthy source of fat. Some experts believe that taking a small amount of ghee with warm water may support digestion and metabolism. The healthy fats in ghee may also help you feel full for a longer time which could reduce overall calorie intake during the day. • Apple cider vinegar drink Apple cider vinegar is a popular natural ingredient used by many people trying to lose weight.  It contains acetic acid which may help the body process fat more efficiently. It may also help control appetite and support metabolism. Mix a small amount of apple cider vinegar with water. You can add lemon juice and a little honey if you like. This drink may also help improve digestion reduce inflammation and support healthy blood sugar levels which may lower cravings for sweet foods. •Lemon water Lemon water is a simple and refreshing way to start the day. Lemons are rich in vitamin C which supports normal metabolism. They also contain pectin a type of fiber that may help you feel less hungry. Experts say drinking lemon water on an empty stomach may improve digestion support hydration and help reduce inflammation. Tips These drinks are not a quick fix for weight loss. They work best when combined with a healthy diet regular exercise and an active lifestyle. If you have diabetes stomach problems or any other medical condition it is important to speak with your doctor before making these drinks a daily habit.

  • Don’t ignore shortness of breath

    ByJustpaste.in

    Feeling short of breath  while walking climbing stairs jogging or doing simple daily activities has become a common problem for people of all ages. While it was once mostly seen in older adults many young people now experience it too. Health experts say that if you often become short of breath you should not ignore it. Finding the real cause is important because it may be a sign of an underlying health problem. One of the main reasons is a lack of physical activity. Many people spend hours sitting in front of their phones computers or TVs especially after meals. Over time this inactive lifestyle can reduce fitness and make breathing more difficult during even light exercise. Doctors explain that getting out of breath after only a little effort may sometimes be linked to problems with the heart lungs kidneys or liver. Swelling around the eyes or face may point to liver disease swollen feet may be related to kidney problems and swelling in the hands feet and face together could be a sign of heart disease. Instead of treating yourself at home it is important to see a qualified doctor. Other common causes of shortness of breath include anemia (low blood) weakness asthma seasonal allergies colds cough mucus in the airways lung diseases and long term smoking. Because every person is different only a proper medical check up can identify the real cause. In some people stomach problems such as gas and acid reflux can also make breathing feel difficult. Sitting for a long time after eating may increase these problems causing chest discomfort and a feeling of breathlessness. Eating a balanced diet exercising regularly and taking a short walk after meals may help improve digestion and overall health. Some traditional remedies suggest soaking three dried figs in water overnight and eating them on an empty stomach in the morning to support digestion. Others use basil leaves or basil seeds as an herbal drink.  However there is only limited scientific evidence to support these remedies so they should not replace proper medical treatment. If you experience frequent shortness of breath especially with chest pain severe weakness dizziness blue lips or skin or swelling seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious health problems.

  • |

    How translation reconstructs global literature

    ByJustpaste.in

    For generations, the international publishing world operated around a narrow geographic axis. Books written in dominant English-speaking hubs dominated bookstore displays worldwide. Stories crafted in regional languages across Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe struggled to secure international distribution. When works were translated, the process was often viewed as a purely mechanical service. A utilitarian act of converting words from one dictionary to another. Today, a seismic cultural shift is redefining global literature. Translation is finally recognized as a sophisticated, creative art form that acts as the lifeblood of global storytelling. Recent publishing trends and prestigious accolades, such as the International Booker Prize, highlight this remarkable transformation. In 2026, the prize made history by awarding its top honor to Taiwan Travelogue by Yáng Shuāng-zǐ, brilliantly translated from Taiwanese Mandarin into English by Lin King. This historic win marking the first time a Taiwanese Mandarin work secured the award highlighted a broader reality. Global audiences are hungrier than ever for diverse, culturally distinct narratives. Over the past decade, sales of translated fiction have surged dramatically, proving that readers no longer seek comfort solely in familiar local settings. At the center of this movement is a fundamental re-evaluation of the translator’s role. Far from being invisible ghostwriters, translators are cultural ambassadors and literary artists in their own right. Translating a novel is rarely a matter of word-for-word substitution. Every language carries unique rhythms, idioms, historical baggage, and untranslatable social nuances. When a translator approaches a text, they must reconstruct its tone, preserve its emotional core, and decide how to navigate cultural concepts that have no direct equivalent in the target language. They rewrite the story from the inside out, ensuring it resonates authentically with a brand-new audience without stripping away its original soul. This evolving respect for translation has sparked important industry changes, such as the widely supported movement to print translators’ names directly on book covers alongside the author’s. Independent publishers are leading the charge, taking bold risks on works translated from lesser-represented languages, including Kannada, Taiwanese, Bulgarian, and Arabic. Digital distribution platforms have further accelerated this trend, allowing indie books to cross oceans instantly. Ultimately, translation is what prevents global literature from becoming an echo chamber. It dismantles geographical gatekeeping, fosters empathy across political divides, and allows readers to step directly into the lived experiences of people half a world away. The delicate craft of translation and the global literary community ensure that stories are no longer limited to by borders of the language in which they were born.  

  • |

    Post-graduate depression

    ByJustpaste.in

    No one talks about the depression, hopelessness, and anxiety that fresh university graduates face. They suffer silently, wondering what to do next and how to find opportunities. Even their families often don’t understand what they are going through. Many graduates slowly fade away. They stop talking to friends, lose contact with classmates, and avoid social gatherings. At family functions, relatives ask questions like, “Beta, what are you doing now?”, “How long are you going to stay at your parents’ home?” If it’s a girl, people ask, “When are you getting married?” or “What have you achieved after getting your degree? Have you earned any money? Look at our daughters—they’re married, have two kids, and are happy. Meanwhile, your poor parents are still taking care of you.” When it comes to boys, they face endless questions from uncles and relatives. Many become demotivated. Some dream of moving abroad but don’t have the money to do so. Others try trading after taking advice from friends and sometimes fail. Some start giving home tuition while constantly thinking about how to settle in life and repay their parents, who are getting older every day. This is the reality of our society. Those who can afford it pursue a master’s degree or go abroad for higher studies. Many work overtime just to prove that they are capable of achieving something in life. Otherwise, people label them as a burden on their parents. Many daughters are pressured into marriage instead of being allowed to pursue private jobs. If they want to build a career, they are expected to prepare for competitive government exams. Even after 14 or 16 years of education, they still have to study further to clear exams like CSS or PPSC. Only then do parents and society begin to appreciate them, and their names are respected. Otherwise, to society, you are just another university graduate—and that’s all.

  • Healthy weight may protect male fertility study

    ByJustpaste.in

    Male infertility is becoming a growing health concern around the world and new research suggests that excess body fat may be one of the reasons behind the rising number of cases. A study from Aarhus University found that higher levels of body fat can negatively affect male reproductive health and reduce fertility. The researchers followed 1,058 young men, who were about 18 years and 9 months old when the study began. They measured body fat body weight and muscle mass to understand how body composition affects fertility. According to the researchers a healthy body fat percentage for men is generally between 8% and 19%, while 20% or higher is considered elevated. The study found that men with higher body fat had on average a 23% lower sperm count than those with healthier body fat levels. The researchers also found that excess body fat may disrupt hormones that play an important role in sperm production and overall reproductive health. Hormonal changes caused by obesity can reduce both sperm  quality and fertility. Experts say maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise a balanced diet enough sleep and stress management can support both overall health and reproductive health. Avoiding smoking limiting alcohol and managing long term medical conditions may also help improve fertility. The findings were published in the journal Human Reproduction. The study supports earlier findings from the World Health Organization, which reported in 2023 that about 17.5% of adults worldwide experience infertility at some point in their lives. The WHO also noted that infertility affects people in high middle and low income countries making it a global public health challenge. Researchers say that while infertility can have many causes keeping body fat at a healthy level may be an important step in protecting male fertility and improving reproductive health.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *