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Immune cells repair brain during sleep, says researchers

Published

7 years ago

on

Human brain

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Researchers have found that immune cells called microglia, which play an important role in reorganising the connections between nerve cells, fighting infections, and repairing damage, are also primarily active while we sleep.

Microglia serves as the brain’s first responders, patrolling the brain and spinal cord and springing into action to stamp out infections or gobble up debris from dead cell tissue.

“This research shows that the signals in our brain that modulate the sleep and awake state also act as a switch that turns the immune system off and on,” said study lead author Ania Majewska, Professor at University of Rochester in the US.

In previous studies, Majewska’s lab has shown how microglia interacts with synapses, the juncture where the axons of one neuron connects and communicates with its neighbours.

The microglia helps maintain the health and function of the synapses and prune connections between nerve cells when they are no longer necessary for brain function.

For the findings, researchers conducted the study on mice.

The current study points to the role of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that signals arousal and stress in the central nervous system.

This chemical is present in low levels in the brain while we sleep, but when production ramps up it arouse our nerve cells, causing us to wake up and become alert.

The study showed that norepinephrine also acts on a specific receptor, the beta2 adrenergic receptor, which is expressed at high levels in microglia.

When this chemical is present in the brain, the microglia slips into a sort of hibernation.

The study, which employed an advanced imaging technology that allows researchers to observe activity in the living brain, showed that when mice were exposed to high levels of norepinephrine, the microglia became inactive and were unable to respond to local injuries and pulled back from their role in rewiring brain networks.

“This work suggests that the enhanced remodeling of neural circuits and repair of lesions during sleep may be mediated in part by the ability of microglia to dynamically interact with the brain,” said study first author Rianne Stowell.

“Altogether, this research also shows that microglia are exquisitely sensitive to signals that modulate brain function and that microglial dynamics and functions are modulated by the behavioural state of the animal,” Stowell said.

The study was published in the journal Nature Neuroscience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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India News

Father’s Day 2026: date, history, significance and budget-friendly gift ideas for dads

Father’s Day 2026 falls on June 21. Learn about its history, significance, celebration traditions and affordable gift ideas to honour fathers and father figures.

Published

1 month ago

on

June 20, 2026

By

Father’s Day 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, June 21, offering families an opportunity to honour fathers and father figures for their love, support, guidance and sacrifices. In India, as well as in several countries including the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, the occasion is observed on the third Sunday of June every year.

The day is dedicated not only to fathers but also to grandfathers, stepfathers, guardians and mentors who play an important role in shaping lives and supporting families.

When is Father’s Day 2026?

Father’s Day 2026 falls on June 21, which is the third Sunday of June. The date changes each year, but the tradition of celebrating it on the third Sunday of June remains the same in many countries, including India.

History of Father’s Day

The modern observance of Father’s Day is widely linked to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. Inspired by Mother’s Day celebrations, she wanted to honour her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who raised six children as a single parent after his wife’s death. Her efforts led to one of the earliest Father’s Day celebrations in Spokane on June 19, 1910.

Over the following decades, support for the observance grew across the United States. Father’s Day was officially recognised as a national holiday in 1972 when then-US President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation establishing it as an annual celebration.

Significance of Father’s Day

Father’s Day serves as a reminder to acknowledge the contribution of fathers and father figures in family life. The occasion recognises their role in providing emotional support, guidance, protection and encouragement. It is also an opportunity for families to express gratitude and strengthen their bonds through meaningful interactions and shared experiences.

How is Father’s Day celebrated?

People celebrate Father’s Day in different ways, depending on family traditions and personal preferences. Common celebrations include:

  • Spending quality time with family
  • Organising a special meal or outing
  • Giving greeting cards and gifts
  • Sharing heartfelt messages and memories
  • Planning activities based on a father’s hobbies and interests

Many families are increasingly choosing experiences such as dining outings, creative workshops and family gatherings over traditional gifts.

Budget-friendly Father’s Day gift ideas

You do not need to spend a large amount of money to make Father’s Day special. Some thoughtful and affordable gift options include:

  • A handwritten letter expressing gratitude
  • A personalised photo frame or photo collage
  • A notebook, planner or quality pen
  • A customised coffee mug
  • A favourite book
  • Homemade snacks or a special meal
  • A keychain with a personal message
  • A DIY greeting card
  • A playlist featuring your father’s favourite songs
  • A family memory scrapbook

Personalised and heartfelt gifts often carry more emotional value than expensive presents and can become cherished keepsakes.

Father’s Day 2026, which falls on June 21, is an occasion to celebrate the love, sacrifices and guidance provided by fathers and father figures. Whether through a thoughtful gift, a heartfelt message or simply spending time together, the day offers a meaningful opportunity to show appreciation and create lasting memories.

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Festivals

Eid 2026 in India may fall on March 20 or 21, moon sighting on March 19 to decide

Eid al-Fitr 2026 in India is expected on March 20 or 21, depending on the crescent moon sighting on March 19.

Published

4 months ago

on

March 19, 2026

By

Eid al-Fitr 2026 in India is expected to be celebrated on either March 20 or March 21, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of March 19.

The festival, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is observed based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Religious authorities and moon sighting committees across the country will confirm the date only after verifying the visibility of the Shawwal moon.

Eid 2026 date in India

As per astronomical predictions and traditional practices, if the crescent moon is sighted on March 19, Eid will be observed the next day on March 20. However, if the moon is not visible, Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid will be celebrated on March 21.

The final announcement is typically made later in the evening after confirmations from different regions.

Chand Raat 2026 timing

“Chand Raat,” the night marking the sighting of the moon, is expected to be observed on Thursday evening, March 19, 2026. It begins shortly after sunset when people look for the crescent moon.

This night holds cultural importance, with markets witnessing increased activity as people prepare for Eid celebrations.

Significance of Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr signifies the conclusion of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting, prayer, and charity. The festival represents gratitude, spiritual renewal, and a sense of unity within the community.

How Eid is celebrated

The day begins with a special congregational prayer held at mosques and open grounds. People dress in new clothes, exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak,” and visit friends and family.

Traditional dishes, especially seviyan, are prepared and shared. Giving Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity, is considered essential to ensure that everyone can participate in the celebrations. Chand Raat is also marked by shopping, applying henna, and festive preparations.

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Festivals

Happy Holi 2026 wishes and messages to share with your loved ones

Holi 2026 begins with Holika Dahan and vibrant celebrations across India. Here are the best wishes, messages and quotes to share with loved ones.

Published

5 months ago

on

March 3, 2026

By

HappyHoli

As the festival of colours sweeps across India, Holi 2026 is being celebrated with vibrant enthusiasm, bringing together families, friends and communities in a spirit of joy and togetherness. The celebrations began with Holika Dahan on March 2 in several parts of the country, while some cities observed or are set to observe the ritual on March 3.

Holika Dahan marks the symbolic triumph of good over evil. The following day, people take part in Rangwali Holi, smearing each other with colours, dancing to festive music and sharing sweets. In some regions, the colour-filled celebrations continue into Wednesday, adding to the festive mood.

On this occasion, here are some heartfelt wishes, messages, quotes and social media status ideas you can send to your loved ones.

Happy Holi 2026 wishes

  • May the colours of Holi brighten your life and fill your days with happiness, success and prosperity. Happy Holi 2026!
  • Let’s splash colours in the air and celebrate the beautiful bond we share. Wishing you a bright and cheerful Holi!
  • A very Happy Holi to those who add colours to every day of my life.
  • Celebrate Holi with enthusiasm, positivity and lots of colours. Wishing you a vibrant and joyful Holi 2026!
  • Wishing you a Holi as bright and beautiful as your spirit.
  • Just as colours bring happiness, may Holi bring everyone closer together. Happy Holi 2026!

Happy Holi 2026 messages

  • May the colours of Holi illuminate your path and bless you with happiness and prosperity.
  • May your life be as colourful and vibrant as the hues of Holi. Happy Holi 2026!
  • Wishing my squad a Holi that’s as lively and colourful as our adventures together. Happy Holi 2026!
  • Holi teaches us to set aside differences and celebrate unity with colours and joy. Happy Holi!
  • Sending you warm wishes for a Holi filled with love and divine blessings. Happy Holi 2026!
  • Let’s drench each other in colours of fun, laughter and lifelong memories. Happy Holi 2026!

Happy Holi 2026 quotes

  • “Holi is the perfect time to celebrate the colours of our beautiful relationship. Happy Holi!”
  • “May your life become a vibrant canvas this Holi—each splash of colour a reminder of love, hope and dreams.”
  • “May the whispers of Holi fill your day with tender memories and radiant joy. Happy Holi 2026!”
  • “Let’s throw colours in the air and renew our bonds with warmth and affection. Happy Holi 2026!”
  • “On this festival of colours, may your world be filled with joyful moments and bright memories.”
  • “Let go of negativity and embrace positivity. Celebrate this Holi with vibrant colours. Happy Holi!”

Happy Holi 2026 Facebook and WhatsApp status

  • Holi is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of life’s happiest moments. Wishing you a colourful Holi 2026!
  • Holi stands for love, care, happiness and endless fun. Let’s celebrate with all our hearts. Happy Holi!
  • A Holi picture is worth a thousand laughs. Have a fantastic Holi 2026!
  • Life becomes brighter when you add colour to it. Spread joy this Holi 2026!
  • Holi reminds us that good always triumphs over evil. May positivity and success fill your life. Happy Holi 2026!

May every splash of colour bring laughter, love and unforgettable memories. Happy Holi 2026 to you and your family!

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