Technology (Archaeology)
A new technique using X-ray phase-contrast tomography is making it possible to read badly damaged scrolls like those from a library buried in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD without destroying them.
http://www.cnn.com/2017/01/27/europe/charred-roman-scrolls-trnd/index.html
Writing (Art)
A neat art project uses the Arabic script to inspire drawings that reflect the meaning. Some are more direct while others are not, but comparing the script below to the illustration above is fascinating.
http://www.boredpanda.com/illustrating-arabic-words-into-their-meaning/
Narrative (History)
An interesting argument presented in a series of tweets about the way non-white historical figures are portrayed in film and media such that it diminishes their accomplishments and sends the wrong message.
https://storify.com/charlesatan/foz-meadows-on-tragedy-as-narrative-compulsion-in-
Technology (Medicine)
An innovative solution to centrifuges in remote health clinics adopts a toy from India called a whirligig as a cheap, functional solution. I’ve played with the toy before, but never imagined such a critical use.
https://www.wired.com/2017/01/paperfuge-20-cent-device-transform-health-care/
Music (Writing)
A fascinating article by a writer who can’t listen to music exploring how and why it helps other writers.
https://kobowritinglife.com/2017/01/20/music-a-tool-to-help-writers-focus/