Axelrod was an American biochemist whose investigations into the role of norepinephrine in brain chemistry led to an understanding of how neurotransmitters work and how their levels are regulated. His research made possible the development of antianxiety and antidepressant drugs like Prozac and Zoloft, which are collectively known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. For his efforts, Axelrod shared the 1970 Nobel Prize for Physiology. What was his other major scientific contribution? Discuss
Month: May 2022
pull an all-nighter
To remain awake all night long, especially so as to study or to complete something. Watch the video
The Holy Grail
In Christian mythology, the Holy Grail is the dish, cup, bowl, or chalice used by Jesus at the Last Supper, said to possess miraculous powers. According to many versions of the story, Joseph of Arimathea used the Grail to catch drops of Jesus’ blood at the Crucifixion and then took the object to Britain, where he founded a line of guardians to protect it. The quest for the Holy Grail also makes up an important part of the Arthurian cycle. Which knight is most closely associated with the Grail? Discuss
scruple
snake
Charles II of England Restored to Throne (1660)
After Oliver Cromwell’s death in 1658, the English republican experiment soon faltered. A strong reaction set in against Puritan supremacy and military control, and opinion favored recalling the exiled king. Charles II was persuaded to issue the Declaration of Breda, granting amnesty to former enemies of the house of Stuart, and return to England. As king, Charles reopened the country’s theaters, which Cromwell’s Puritanical government had closed, and encouraged what bawdy theatrical genre? Discuss
Ascension of Baha'u'llah
This marks the anniversary of the death in 1892 of Mirza Husayn Ali, known as Baha’u’llah, founder of the Baha’i religion. “Ascension” is not meant literally, but is considered the ascension of the spirit. The day is one of nine Baha’i holy days on which work is suspended. It is observed by gathering together at 3:00 a.m., the time of Baha’u’llah’s death in Acre, Palestine (now Israel), for prayers and sometimes readings from Baha’i historical works. Discuss
John F. Kennedy (1917)
A decorated veteran of World War II, Kennedy was the youngest man and first Catholic to be elected US President, serving from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. Kennedy drafted an ambitious domestic program, but his proposed civil rights legislation languished, and his administration became enmeshed in foreign crises, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the failed Bay of Pigs invasion, and the Vietnam War. What technological medium is credited with helping Kennedy win the presidency? Discuss
pound sand
To engage in pointless, menial efforts or labor. Used especially as an imperative to express disdain, contempt, or dismissal. Watch the video
Hybrid Vehicles
A hybrid vehicle uses multiple energy sources—or propulsion systems—to provide its motive power. Typically, these sources are gasoline and electric batteries. Hybrids have become especially popular in recent years, as they provide greater fuel economy with lower emissions and are thus more environmentally friendly than traditional internal-combustion engine vehicles. What makes hybrid vehicles a greater safety risk to pedestrians and cyclists than conventional vehicles? Discuss