on being unexceptional...

Cretinism Strikes Back!

2010-10-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

Just when you think you’re right, you’re wrong. That’s the beauty of the archaeological and anthropological worlds. Your theory one day, someone else’s the next.
That’s right folks, the new species vs. not a new species debate over the origins of Homo floresiensis has reignited.
CRETINISM STRIKES BACK!

A study from a Western Australian team has re-confirmed that the Flores hominid remains bare the hallmark features of modern humans affected by hypothyroid cretinism.
I know I tend to talk about this a fair bit, but I find it quite interesting, so deal with it. Also, I really don’t think we’re that far away from a “Is not!”/”Is too!” debate. I jest of course.
Professor Oxnard (awesome name) and his team claim that the results of their study confirm that:

the close grouping of H. floresiensis with the hypothyroid cretins, and the clear separation from both modern humans and from chimpanzees…leads them to conclude that the Liang Bua remains were indeed most likely cretins from a population of unaffected H. sapiens.

Oxnard explained that

"Cretinism is caused by various environmental factors including iodine deficiency -- a deficiency which would have been present on Flores at the period to which the dwarfed Flores fossils are dated."

The study has sought further evidence through drawing on modern human populations, arguing that their research is

"...consistent with recent hypothyroid endemic cretinism throughout Indonesia, including the nearby island of Bali,"

Hu – man – i – ty

2010-08-18T17:51:00.000-07:00

Definition: 1. Humans considered as a group; the human race.

2. The condition or quality of being human.

3. The quality of being humane; benevolence

4. A humane characteristic, attribute, or act; mercy,

compassion

When we dig into the past to examine human origins, what is often looked for is indications of humanity. It is believed to be a trait uniquely linked to being human, traits which have previously created a barrier between ourselves and animals.

Psychologist Sarah Bronsan of Georgia State University intends to find out whether or not humanely traits can be found in other species. Working with Capuchin Monkeys;

She argues that traits like fairness and curiosity are essential for any social animals to survive and live together.

Capuchin Monkeys are one of the most intelligent new world monkey species, and as such have been extensively studied in the wild, but also in captivity. The species are one of few monkey species which have been documented to make and use tools in the wild. Tools are predominantly made and used to access certain foods, but there have also been documented cases during the mosquito season where Capuchins will crush millipedes and use the remnants as a form of insect repellent.
But what Bronsan wants to examine is the extent of social complexities within the Capuchin species. Conducting a series of experiments aimed at fairness, Bronsan documented how Capuchins reacted when one individual was given a slice of healthy cucumber, while another was given a scrumptious grape. While both monkeys received the cucumber treat, no problems were observed. However, when one individual was given a grape instead, the other monkey reacted as many of us would if we found out our colleague was getting a $5000 bonus for performing the same tasks. In other words, the monkey went apeshit!

Sorry. Couldn’t help myself.

But similar reactions have been demonstrated in the past. Check out this clip, where a Capuchin gets cheated in a game of blackjack.

Many animals have a sense of fairness. My two dogs for instance. Anyone with two dogs will surely be able to tell you that you can’t give one a piece of carrot, while giving the other a nice juicy steak. Riots ensue.
Of course there is still the argument of how being in captivity has influenced the behaviour of the Capuchins in this study. But undoubtedly, Bronsan and many others have shown that animals do share some of the same complex social rules as humans. The extent of which these social rules and humanely traits overlap, will likely be examined more thoroughly in the future.

Robot Tomb Raider

2010-08-11T04:13:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought the only way Robots and Ancient History could intertwine would be in an episode of Stargate or Doctor Who, in walks a team from Leeds University to save the day!

A team of technicians from Leeds University in England have spent the last five years developing the “Djedi Project”. A venture which involves the use of robotics to unlock the engineering secrets to one of the worlds Ancient Wonders, the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The mission: to explore and determine the purpose of the two airshafts that lead from the Queen’s chamber in the great pyramid.

Previous examination of the airshafts have shown that they do not lead to the outer surface of the pyramid…Which many people thought a tad strange considering they were labelled as “airshafts”. Earlier missions in the 1990’s found that the southern shaft was blocked after 60m by a limestone door with copper handles. In 2002, a team succeeded in drilling through this door, only to find another door 20cm behind the one they’d just gone through. It was at this point that some experts started tearing their hair out in frustration, while others were left stunned and intrigued.

Zahi Hawass, Egyptologist and current Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, believes that

"With the help of the Djedi team, we hope to uncover the meaning of these airshafts by drilling through the doors that are blocking them……The team is hoping to gather as much evidence as possible to try to piece together the purpose of the airshafts, while at the same time ensuring that the Great Pyramid is not damaged in any way."

It is a pretty spiffy robot too I might add. Equipped with a micro snake camera; a mini ultrasonic device to determine the thickness and condition of stone walls; a mini beetle robot to explore more confined spaces; a precision compass; an inclinometer; and a Coring drill.

The only things missing are a laser and a computerised voice that shouts “excavate!” when the robot drills through the stone walls of the shaft.

But in all seriousness, this project isn’t just an excuse for a bunch of geeks and nerds to get together and have a party in the great pyramid. Experts believe that the project will help to answer questions about the remarkable engineering behind one of the most monumental structures of the Ancient World.

Dr Robert Richardson of Leeds University admits

"We have no preconceptions. We are trying to gain evidence for other people to draw conclusions…..We are preparing the robot now and expect to send it up before the end of the year. It's a big question, and it's very important not to cause unnecessary damage.”

I don’t know about you, but I for one will be following this study…mainly because I think robots are cool…and that a robot exploring the pyramids is so cool its subzero. But seriously, what if the great pyramid comes tumbling down like a load of bricks (excuse the pun) because of a beetle sized robot? Somehow I don’t think “Oops, my bad” will cover you for the total destruction of one of the most famous wonders of the world.

However, I don’t think the Pyramid will be in any real danger. Why? I’m glad you asked.
Reason 1: HAWASS
There is no way this project and others like it would go through if Hawass thought it was going to damage the pyramid. Hawass makes a solid living off Egyptian cultural heritage and let’s face it, he’s hardly going to shoot himself in the foot now is he? And the project is five years in the making. It cannot possibly take 5 years to make a robot. I'd say a good three of those years where taken up by risk assessment reports and other red tape matters.

Reason 2: MECHANICAL ENGINEERS = SMART
Well you would hope so wouldn’t you? Especially considering how much faith we have in them in other areas of life.

Reason 3: ALIENS DID NOT BUILD THE PYRAMIDSNot that this contributes to the issue at hand, I just thought I should mention it.

Check out these for more information:

http://www.drhawass.com/blog/djedi-team-robot

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/robot-to-explore-mysterious-tunnels-in-great-pyramid-2046506.html

http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20013217-1.html

So.....

2010-08-11T02:42:00.000-07:00

It’s been almost a year since my last blog…I know, I know, more than a little bit slack on my behalf, but let me explain…

Ahem,

You see, there comes a time in one’s life, when life as you know it changes. We’ve all had that moment, the one where we feel like Alice, tumbling down the rabbit hole, expecting to wake up at any moment.

Only then to be taken by a group of suspect characters to a dishevelled apartment block, where a man clad in black leather offers you the choice between the blue pill and the red pill. A choice to remain trapped or to free your mind and become the one!.....

Okay, yes that is The Matrix. And no, I don’t really have a good excuse for my absence from the blogosphere. So what was I doing for almost 12 months you ask?

WELL! Nothing too exceptional (that would be in conflict with the title of this blog), I went travelling for a while, I studied, I got a new job, I partied, I did a lot of ordinary things like washing and ironing and eating and drinking, and I read some books. Like I said, pretty pathetic excuse right?

But I have returned! Like a Jedi, or something equally as awesome.*

And to mark my return, I have given the blog a bit of a renovation, just to give myself a bit of fresh start I guess. So welcome back to the unfortunate few silly enough to stumble across my little outbursts of crazy and sometimes nonsensical rants about nothing in particular. I would like to offer you all something amazing to come, but if we’re being honest….

Well its just going to be more of the same really. So if you like it, THANKS! And keep reading. If not, well, tough luck I guess. But if you don’t like it, why the hell have you come back for more? You really must be a sucker for punishment.

I mean seriously, of all the crappy blogs you could read, why come back to mine? Masochist much? You should probably see someone about that.

*Yes, Jedi = awesome, not nerdy or geeky, just awesome.

New Genus New Genus New Genus

2009-09-30T02:53:00.000-07:00

Uh-oh-Spaghetti-oh!

Poor little Flo! New species, not a new species, now not a Homo?! Life can be so cruel. But rest assured, Flo won’t be lonely, she can hang out with Pluto in the “we are no longer what scientists first claimed us to be” club. It’s very exclusive.

That’s right folks, in an article that will be printed in the Journal of Human Evolution have suggested that Floresiensis should not be classified as homo as evidence could suggest that her ancestors may have exited Africa before the evolution of the Homo genus.

Do you hear that? Yes that would be the multi-regionalists clapping their hands and squealing “hah ha!” *

And then of course Brown would say “And I would have gotten away with it too! If it wasn’t for you Teuku Jacob! And your little dog too!”**

But in all seriousness now, Flo has come a long way, from a member of the homo genus, to a diseased individual, then a relative of the australopithecines and now arguably a whole new genus.

As Brown concisely stated:

"What will come from this is either the redefining of the genus Homo or the argument that this species has so many unique characteristics and so many features shared with australopithecines that it probably belongs in its own genus,"

But what have we learned from this? Nothing is ever simple, static or unchanging.

And that Scooby Doo is secretly a multi-regionalist mole determined to fight the Out of Africa Model till the very end.***

*You know I right about this one
**I took a little creative liberty here, but I’m sure it carries the same sentiment
***It’s always the innocent ones you have to look out for

Underworld of the Pharaohs - Found

2009-08-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

Who said archaeologists couldn’t be like Indian Jones?!

British explorer Andrew Collins* has found the ‘lost underworld of the pharaohs’. Apparently in his Indiana-esque travels, Collins stumbled upon an ‘enormous system of caves, chambers and tunnels' that lay hidden beneath the Pyramids of Giza!

Collins said the caves contain untouched archaeology, but are swarming with bats and venomous spiders. He also suggests you stay the hell away from the light and any diamond shaped floor tiles, oh removing the gold idol is a BAD IDEA!

I’m sorry, I couldn’t resist! If only all archaeology was this much fun!

*he should so change his name to something cooler, like ‘Andrew Zaine Ignatius Timothy Lane Fox Collins’ – then he could say “yeah, whose got the best name now Pitt Rivers?!”**

**IMHO ‘Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers’ has the best name in archaeology/anthropology.

News From Flores

2009-08-13T00:18:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought the debate was nearly dead…

Enter Cladistics Analysis!

A team of anthropologists and archaeologists from ANU have released a new study analysing the evolutionary linage of the controversial H. floresiensis, found on the Island of Flores in Indonesia 2003.

The results published in the journal of human evolution suggest that not only is H. floresiensis a new species, but also that the species does not share an immediate ancestor, diverging nearly two million years ago. Furthermore:

The fact that the H. floresiensis population on Flores is a very early species
suggests that hominins emerged from Africa much earlier than previously thought.

So if you thought you just felt the earth move, it was probably seismic activity, but also a major paradigm shift. So get your popcorn out and get comfortable everyone, this is going to be an interesting ride!

p.s. I know I’m a little behind in the news of this but I’ve been busy having a life and being awesome.

p.s.s. hahaha I joke! I’ve just been busy doing assignments and working…what an exciting life I do lead!

Back

2009-08-03T03:21:00.000-07:00

Wow.

I’ve come to the conclusion that as a blogger, I really suck!

For serious!

You see, life has been a bit tumultuous (hence my lack of blogs/webwankery). But I’m back in the game now I think.

So, from now on there will be no more slacking off.

See you soon space cowboy!

xx

Sweet Sacrifice

2009-07-31T03:38:00.000-07:00

In some Ancient Cultures, when times were tough, human sacrifices were made to appease the gods. So to hell with sitting around saving our pennies, all we need to do to escape the GFC is knock off a few millionaires/CEO/Media Moguls and all will be right in the world again.

Okay, maybe not. So you can all return the people you’ve kidnapped back to their families, no arguments!

Anyway, on the subject of sacrifice research in Peru has revealed a mass grave of 33 mummies from the site of Chotuna Huaca, recovered earlier this year. Reports suggest most of the mummified remains were wonderfully preserved, with even hair and teeth surviving.

While sacrifice was not an uncommon event in Andean pre-Hispanic civilisations, archaeologists and anthropologists are puzzled by the huge number of victims which appear to have been killed simultaneously, a phenomena not yet observed in the region.

Further puzzling is that the remains belong to young females, some being no more than nine years old. Preliminary theories suggest the victims were probably sacrificed to bring fertility to farmlands.

http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgurl=http://www.greatarchaeology.com/news/wp-content/mummy-peru_big.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.greatarchaeology.com/news/archaeology/33-peru-mummies-victim-of-human-sacrifices/&usg=__TrByWrLBScjFWEPUtHfkHCPwGAg=&h=307&w=461&sz=36&hl=en&start=1&um=1&tbnid=N4PoCq3Wsy_AcM:&tbnh=85&tbnw=128&prev=/images%3Fq%3D33%2Bmummies%2Bperu%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1T4GGIK_enAU272AU272%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1

The Sardonic Grin

2009-06-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

A recent study has revealed the toxin behind the smiling death. Phoenician colonists on the Island of Sardinia created one big CF* for contemporary societies by creating some damn freaky smiles on faces of the dead, both enemies and friends.

What eluded scientists until now was how they did it.

Enter hungry Shepherd.

Let us call this shepherd Bob.

Pulling a double shift one overcast afternoon, Bob realises that he forgot his lunch. So poor and tired Bob, almost delirious with hunger, stumbled upon this:

Sniff.
Mmmmmmm, well it smells okay, thought Bob.
So, after brushing off excess dirt and pollen, Bob proceeded to scoff down the sweet smelling flowers and the juicy, juicy roots of the pretty swamp flower. And oh boy was it yummy!

A few hours later, Bob was found dead, with a grin on his face.

Now I personally think this would make a great story to tell your children to teach them not to eat just anything because you can DIE! Its like the Cry Wolf story really.

Anyway, Bob’s unintentional suicide lead scientists closer to the secret identity of the Sardonic herb.

And so, now we know NOT to eat the Hemlock Water-Dropwort, and that there will undoubtedly be a new cosmetic method in the fight against aging.

And you thought inserting botulism was bad! Take that wrinkles! Muahahahaha!

*CF=clusterfuck, but I'm trying to keep this blog PG

To whom it may concern,

2009-05-20T02:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know I said more blogging and I have been meaning to I’ve just been busy!
And I have proof! “A Method for the Quantified Analysis of Fragmented Faunal Remains and the Application of this Model to Body Size Classes” Yeah that’s right!
I give the seminar for this project tomorrow, so I intend to be back in the blogosphere by the end of the week.
Strap yourselves in!

The Peter Pan PNR

2009-05-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

It was a cool night on the 11th of May this year when I came to the realisation that I'd spent my last day as a teenager cleaning fish tanks and writing a report on a statistical method to distinguish fragmented faunal bones.
It was quite depressing! If someone asks me what I did on my last day as a teenager, I wanted to be able to say something at least remotely cool! Like "I was kidnapped by the CIA and ordered to seduce an evil terrorist that looked like David Tennant."
But no, i cleaned fish tanks and wrote a report.
The second sad realisation came when I realised that I could now never live in Neverland as one of the lost children of no specific gender (look what political correctness has done to that fairytale).
So, on the 12th of May 2009, I turned 20.
I did have a request for birthday gifts this year: David Wenham/David Tennant/Josh Lucas wrapped in pink ribbon and a TARDIS. As yet, I haven't received any of those, but I figure there should be at least a two week grace period for shipping.
But anyway, happy birthday to me.
More blogging is on the way, so stay tuned!

Breaking the Silence

2009-05-08T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Just a quick one to let you know two more studies arguing that 'Flo' is a new species have been released. From memory i think the stories are published in the journal 'Nature'. I'll have to get back to you on that one anyway.

Ordinarily I would love to sit down and have a little rant about our dear friend Flo, but I've got to go to work, and then I have to finish my Advanced Research Project -_-.

Life just isn't fair.

P.S. K.RUDD! Where’s my stimulus package huh?!

I'm not [Dead]!

2009-04-17T04:21:00.000-07:00

Heya Space Cowboys/Cowgirls!

Yes, I am alive!

I apologise for the lack of blogging rants, I’ve been otherwise preoccupied….

I wish I had an awesome excuse involving the economic downturn and espionage work for people who wear black suits and shoes that squeak… but unfortunately I’m boring.

The reason I’ve been quiet is because I’ve got my hands full of antelope bones! Wallaby and Kangaroo soon to join! Now if that’s not a party I don’t know what is….
It is a long story, but needless to say things have been a little hectic.

But there have been so many new and exciting things happening in archaeology that I’m truly regretting my absence from the blogosphere. Not because anyone actually reads this, but because now my brain is doing this thing where I try to write an essay only to ramble incoherently and then pursue weird tangents that end in…well, let’s just say it gets pretty messy.

Anyway, I’ll get back to the point. Here are some stories that I think you folks might be interested in.

Cleo and Ant, where art thou?! http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5gYKMmuL5ZHmbklSW5GCtfIYFtxeg

Anything you can do, I can do better
http://www.livescience.com/animals/090413-human-climbers.html

Just when you thought British archaeology had enough problems
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7992300.stm

Will your child be the first to join the x-men?!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/mcclatchy/20090408/sc_mcclatchy/3208192

For the lit crowd…and all of you lovely people searing with art wank
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7931823.stm

More mummies than you can poke a stick at
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7879366.stm

Dinosaurs in Cambodia…FTW?! ….okay this one I just thought was funny
http://grinding.be/2009/04/09/cambodia-dinosaur-images-noticed-in-temple-ruin/

Spike = Keanu?? Eh?! - Some would argue that this isn't archaeological, i disagree. People will dig up dvds in the future and when they figure out how to recovery the images they will say "well, now we know why it was in the garbage!"

No, I'm sorry!

I shall wait until the movie surfaces until i pass judgement.

http://www.scificool.com/keanu-reeves-as-spike-in-cowboy-bebop-live-action-movie/

Okay, I seriously have to stop procrastinating! But I’m hoping that will keep you entertained until next Friday at least.

I promise to keep up my crazy talk. So those of you, YES YOU, who started to think I was dead, fear not! You may sleep well from this night on!

[Insert cricket buzz/hum here]

Do crickets buzz? Hum? Chirp? Whistle? Hum and whistle simultaneously?

Someone enlighten me.

Or better yet, record a cricket impersonation! That would be two kinds of awesome….slash weird.

LOST AND FOUND...AGAIN!

2009-03-04T02:51:00.000-08:00

Remember that time when I lost the Temple of Jordania* and I started freaking out, searching high and low and in the middle only to find it stuffed down under the seat of the couch?

No?....Okay, just trying to create an analogy.
Here’s the story.

Once upon a time, in a mystical land of sand and spice, a young and handsome**
Swedish Egyptologist named Karl Piehl discovered a tomb.
On his hands and knees
Karl painstakingly removed grain after grain of sand using only a toothbrush and
a dustpan*** from an excavation site at the city of Luxor, to uncover beautiful
tomb.
Karl soon realised that it was not just any old tomb; no
he had found the tomb belonging to deputy seal bearer of Tuthmosis
III.

“WHOOPIE!” said Karl.****
But Karl was so excited about his discovery that whilst doing his victory dance he didn’t even notice the tomb sink beneath the golden sands, to be lost to all for over a century.

But fear not my beautiful people, the tomb has been rediscovered! Yes, a Belgium team has rediscovered the tomb and all is right again! Unfortunately, the inscriptions on the walls of the tomb have been damaged, leading archaeologists to believe that the tomb has been plundered, probably sometime during the early 19th century.

Now, I’d like to think that on occasion I do raise some kind of valid, if not quirky point about archaeology and the state of the world. With that in mind, I ask you, oh humble readers, HOW DO YOU LOSE A TOMB?!

Car keys, bobby pins and loose change I can understand, but a tomb?! That’s a pretty big target. Do I smell a conspiracy here?

Please enlighten me.

*Figment of my imagination.
**I don’t know if Karl was indeed young or handsome…well obviously he was young at one stage (or was he? [Insert dramatic music here]), but I don’t know about the handsome part. But I just thought I’d put in a good word.
***Probably used more than just a toothbrush and dustpan.
****Probably didn’t say this at all.

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/capress/090301/science/science_egypt_tomb_1
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090301/sc_nm/us_archaeology_egypt_tomb;_ylt=AmYptKSqZBAdoUVnurApOnEhANEA

FOOTPRINTS

2009-02-28T03:17:00.000-08:00

When I first read this story I tried to imagine who among my small group of close friends would be silly…I mean willing to demonstrate the hypothesised walking gait of Homo erectus (courtesy of the new footprint finds) in comparison to other hominids, chimps and modern humans.

I made the mistake of saying I would record this act, upload the footage on YouTube and place right here on this very blog…yeah, really kicked myself in the head there didn’t I? So needless to say, none of my friends opted for the experience, not even George. Next time I’ll just strategically place a few hidden cameras…yes, it is all very big brotheresque around here.

So, new footprints in Kenya! Yay!!!

Studies of the new finds suggest that the individuals who left them were morphologically very similar to modern humans. Standing approximately 5 foot 9 inches high, with a size 9 arched feet indicating better bipedal mobility, anthropologists believe that the prints, dated to 1.5MYA probably belonged to Homo erectus.

Researchers suggest that this provides further credit to claims that the evolution of the feet for bipedal purposes was an essential element to “becoming human” (and let’s not nit pick at that useless term either). So, yes, these are the earliest footprints in existence belonging to a species of the Homo genus (probably, anyway), but are by no means the earliest fossilised hominid footprints recovered from the fossil record. Laetoli still holds that crown, believed to have been left by Australopithecus afarensis, some 3.6 million years old.

What would you say?

2009-02-24T15:05:00.000-08:00

At a recent gathering, a friend of mine brought to my attention a slightly morbid, but still fun website that I’d like to share.

“Dying Words” by Corsinet has recorded the last words of many famous people in history. I’m not sure as to how accurate the site is, but it is still really fun! And it makes you think “Hmm, what are my last words going to be?”

Well? What would you say?

Here are a few of my personal favourites:

I should never have switched from Scotch to Martinis.~~ Humphrey
Bogart,
actor, d. January 14, 1957

I am still
alive! Stabbed to death by his own guards - (as reported by
Roman
historian Tacitus)~~ Gaius Caligula, Roman Emperor, d.41 AD

I've
never felt better.~~ Douglas Fairbanks, Sr., actor, d. December
12,
1939

I'd hate to die twice. It's so boring.~~ Richard Feynman,
physicist, d.
1988

I know you have come to kill me. Shoot coward,
you are only going to
kill a man.
Facing his assassin,
Mario Teran, a Bolivian soldier.~~
Ernesto "Che" Guevara, d. October
9, 1967

Too late for fruit, too soon for flowers.~~ Walter De La
Mare, writer,
d. 1956

Go on, get out - last words are for fools
who haven't said
enough.
To his housekeeper, who urged
him to tell her his last words
so she could write them down for
posterity.~~ Karl Marx, revolutionary,
d. 1883

I
knew it. I knew it. Born in a hotel room - and God damn
it - died in a hotel
room.~~ Eugene O'Neill, writer, d. November 27,
1953

Here am I, dying of a hundred good symptoms.~~ Alexander Pope,
writer, d. May 30, 1744
They couldn't hit an elephant at this dist. . . .
Killed in battle during US Civil War.~~ General John
Sedgwick,
Union Commander, d. 1864

I've had eighteen straight whiskies, I
think that's the record . . .~~ Dylan Thomas, poet, d.
1953

Either that wallpaper goes, or I do.~~ Oscar
Wilde, writer, d.
November 30, 1900

For more of these little charmers, or to get some ideas for your own, you can find the site here.

6 and 26

2009-02-17T13:52:00.000-08:00

Archaeologists in Egypt have found that a pyramid containing a mummy from the 6th dynasty also houses the remains of 30 other mummified individuals from the 26th dynasty.

The 2600 year old tomb, which the LAT suggests belonged to an individual named Sennedjem, is located inside the necropolis at Saqqara. A niche in the tomb holding 30 bodies has been described by Zahi Hawass as a “Mummy Warehouse”.

Eight of the individuals were incased in stone sarcophagi, while the rest where laid to rest in caches along the walls. Dating suggests that the remains in the “warehouse” are from the 26th dynasty – the last independent Egyptian rule before the Persian invasion.

Why?

The Ancient Egyptians were in many ways obsessed with death, even in life, one would be constantly thinking about the life after death and immortality. Why then, would you recycle a tomb?

The most probable answer is that rulers during the 26th dynasty could not recruit the manpower or muster the resources required to construct a funerary complex as extravagant as those from earlier periods.

Research is ongoing.

Not that I support the Barney Phenomenon but....

2009-02-08T01:15:00.000-08:00

On of the biggest misconceptions about archaeology involves one of my favourite things – DINOSAURS! Screw raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, Dinosaurs totally win, hands down!
That being said, when someone asks you what you do for a living and you say “well actually, I’m an archaeologist” the most common response after “wow!”, “good lord, why?” or “really?!” is “so, how many dinosaurs have you found?”
Or something along that sort of line anyway, then you do a little slightly annoyed laugh and clarify what it is that you actually do – play in shell middens, dig up stone tools, work in mass graves or what have you.

Anyway, I realise that what I’m about to do will provide further support for the ‘Barney Phenomena’, but I’m going to do it anyway…because I’m a rebel and I listen to rock music. Yeah, that’s right!

So, first of all TRICERATOPS!

If there was a rockstar among dinosaurs, then Triceratops would be it!

Isn’t it just the cutest little thing! They’re definitely one of my favourite dinosaurs.

Palaeontologists have a huge fascination with horned/ frilled dinosaurs. Theories behind the features stretched from comparisons with species still present on earth today. So essentially deer, elk, moose…and no, not the chocolate variety.

Some believe that the unusual features were used for display purposes, to attract a mate and such. Now don’t tell me you can’t see a male triceratops eyeing off a passing female with a smirk as he’d say “Heya babe! You ever seen one this big?”….wow, that took quite a sordid turn didn’t it, my most humble apologies.

Ahem.

Continuing along the analogy line, deer, elk and non-chocolate moose fight. Yes, they fight with their horns, probably trying to impress a female no doubt. Motivations aside, it has been theorised that perhaps the triceratops also used their horns for fighting, and that if that was so, could there be evidence of this left on fossil remains?

Research indicates yes. Sort of.

Palaeontologists suggest that although far from a definitive conclusion on the exact purpose of horns and frills, for the triceratops, it is likely that they may have been used for fighting. But why are they fighting? One must wonder:

"…if some specimens might have had significantly more injuries than
others, and if so, whether this might suggest that they were males?
Alternatively, if the incidence of injuries significantly increased at a certain
size, would this suggest the onset of sexual maturity and mate competition?"

It should be noted that the used for horns and frills on dinosaurs may have been different for every species. While evidence suggests that the triceratops may have used their horns for fighting, for other species like the Centrosaurs and Pachyrhinosaurs, it may be used as more of a sexual display. Randy little sex fiends!

Not Bitter

2009-01-30T17:45:00.000-08:00

I don’t usually like to talk about stone tools that often, mainly because it’s not my interest area….and if we’re being honest, because I can’t make a decent flake to save my life. But its okay, I’m not bitter and twisted about it or anything. See, I’m even blogging about tools!

Recent excavations in Malaysia have uncovered STONE TOOLS! But not just any stones tools, no, these are stone axes**. Pretty cool right? It gets better!
It has been reported that the seven tools, found in Perak, have been dated by a lab in Tokyo to be 1.83 million years old! Well, 1.83ish – give or take about 610 000 years or so.

Relevance? If the dates are correct-ish, the tools are the oldest axes in the world. Yes, we do have stone tools occurring in Africa quite early on in the piece, but we haven’t seen axes until about 1.6ish million years old.

Basically, this is just reinforcement of the idea the archaeology in South East Asia is a pain in the proverbial ass. Wait! Don’t get all judgemental and disgruntled about it. I mean it in the nicest way possible. The archaeology of the region is extremely complex even in itself; things get far messier when we look at the bigger picture of the human story.

If tools are indicative of a cultural presence, then we have possible habitation of Malaysia by hominins 1.8MYA. The oldest remains found in the area connected to the tools were dated to 10 000 years. Is it simply a case of poor preservation preventing the recovery of a larger and unequivocally important part of the human story?

The study still needs to be looked at by other researchers, but if rocks get your socks off, keep watch on this one.

*Not one of the tools in question

**No, I can’t make axes either…..shut up.

The Secret is Out!

2009-01-27T01:01:00.000-08:00

If you’ve ever been to Palermo, Italy….or alternatively, been lucky enough to attend a mummy congress, you may recognise Rosalia Lombardo. Rosalia was two when she died of influenza in 1920, but remains one of the best preserved human bodies.

A recent study has discovered “THE SECRET FORMULA” that preserved young Rosalia. Turns out it was your basic cocktail of formalin, zinc salts, alcohol, salicylic acid, and glycerin. The concoction in conjunction with the dry catacombs in which the body was entombed would have provided an ideal atmosphere for mummification.

But…why is she still…like…human looking? Well, unlike the mummies in Egypt, the Andes, Canary Islands etc. she’s only almost 90 years old. And the Glycerin component of her death cocktail would have kept her body from drying out too much and shrivelling like a sultana.

However, most of the credit for Rosalia’s amazing condition goes to ZINC. Experts say that:
"[Zinc] gave her rigidity… You could take her out of the casket prop her up, and she would stand by herself."

So there you go folks, that’s another mystery to cross off the list! Booyah!

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

2009-01-25T02:56:00.000-08:00

I knew it wouldn’t be too long until another ‘Hobbit’ story broke into the news. So, what’s new?

‘…a researcher in the Department of Anatomical Sciences at Stony Brook
University, and colleagues conclude that the fossil, found in Indonesia in 2003
and known as the “Hobbit,” is not human…’

Right now, some people are yelling “WE TOLD YOU SO!” while others are…well, lets just say yelling a string of obscenities whilst upturning a dining table or throwing their laptops at a non suspecting postman. Why there would be a postman wandering within laptop throwing range at 8pm I do not know. Maybe he’s not really a postman at all!

Ahem.

Homo floresiensis, the Hobbit, was found on the island of Flores, Indonesia 2003. Initial investigations suggested that the minute stature, odd and somewhat archaic anatomical features was evidence of a new species. I was going to list the theories behind the affinity of the hobbit remains, but I’d be here all night, so I’ll list the popular ones:

Modern species of Homo

Modern species of Homo suffering from a condition known as Microcephaly

Species that was a result of interbreeding between other hominin species

Archaic Homo migrated from Africa into Asia

Entirely new species of Homo with archaic features

3D analysis of the skull shows scaling consistent with island dwarfism, but not for an ancestor of modern humans. The research states that the shape of the neurocranium is most similar to archaic African Hominins. Thus supporting the new species hypothesis. If you don’t already have a subscription for the Journal of Human Evolution or even access to the online archive (shame on you!) then you can find more information right about….here!

I should also add that the response to my blog entry "whispers" has been overwhelming! Archaeological evidence from Flores is still being worked, so keep your ears to the ground but be prepared for a bit of a wait. I imagine that Peter Brown and his colleagues are trying to silence a few, if not all of the opposing theories, so an official publication may not be released for quite some time. In the meantime, I suggest investing in a t-shirt that says either “NEW SPECIES” or “DISEASED SPECIES” so we can keep track of which side everybody is on. Although….we may have a few problems, the “DISEASED SPECIES” t-shirt could be misinterpreted and negatively impact the possibility for those people to find a potential life mate.

The Nazca Lines: It wasn't me! I swear!

2009-01-21T04:05:00.000-08:00

Just the other day I was sitting down, drinking soda water thinking “Hmmm, I haven’t had a rant about the Nazca lines in a while…I wonder if I could do that sometime soon…”

So when I read this:

Heavy rains damage Peru's Nazca lines

Oops.
I didn’t mean it! I swear I didn’t! I would never hurt an international archaeological icon, even if I was Indiana Jones or Lara Croft!

So after my initial freak out at the thought that I’d somehow used ‘the force’ or some form of equivalent mitochlorian based powers to damage a UNESCO World Heritage Site (listed in 1994), I decided to write a blog about it.

The Nazca Lines
In a nutshell, the Peruvian Nazca lines are enormous geoglyphs carefully and precisely engraved into the earth, preserved by the dry and windless climate. There are many theories behind the lines. Of course you have the main stream archaeological view that a pre-Incan population etched the lines by removing small rocks to form the great patterns that possibly depict religious icons.

On the other hand you have the E.T. viewpoint. That small men with oval-ish craniums and a epidermis of a green persuasion used their little silver saucer with and giant laser ray to carve funny markings in the earth to confuse the hell out of us humans (some people I know would love that cluster f—k).

And then we have the view that the lines are associated with magnetic fields, horoscopes and other “…mass cultural delusion[s] that the sun’s apparent position relative to arbitrarily defined constellations at the time of your birth somehow affects your personality.”*
But each to their own I say.

Anyway, so after I talked myself out of the idea that I was in anyway connected to the recent damage done to the international icon I read that the damage was mostly minor and efforts are underway to restore the lines. It has also sparked fears that more damage may be on its way.
So buckle down chaps, we’re in for a bumpy ride!

*anyone who knows where I stole this quote, I present you with the highest form of kudos and friendship!

All the Colours...

2009-01-18T17:38:00.000-08:00

Question.
Do you have a favorite colour?
I’m rather fond of green actually. But anthropologically speaking, people have always had a keen fascination with colours. This fascination is seen simply enough in the appearance of animals throughout history.According to a new study, if left to develop without human interference, animals would not have developed colours seen today. Experts say that:

“Nature abhors novelty, but humans like it. When early farmers came across a
different colour in an animal, it would have been a ‘wow’ reaction.

"Grapes naturally come in varieties of red but the first people to find a white grape
would have said, ‘That’s cool’.

“People replaced nature in terms of selective breeding and protected their different animals from the predators which would have eaten them.

“The Mesopotamians had different coloured farm animals 5,000 years ago, and in that regard they were no different to Paris Hilton, who loves pink chihuahuas.

“This study demonstrates that the human penchant for novelty stretches back thousands of years.

“There is a very long history of selection for crazy coat colours in animals and the evidence suggests that the love of novelty played a large role.”

This explains why Paris Hilton can dress a small dog in a blue sailor suit or a pink tutu and not be seriously accused of animal cruelty. On that note, I would also like to apologise to the Mesopotamians, then again, maybe they liked dressing small animals up like Disney characters, and maybe we just haven’t found the proof yet…

Anyway, the researchers suggest that the findings are best depicted by ‘white’ animals, such as tigers, horses, elephants, Moby Dick etc. who, throughout history have been represented in ritual manners and/or extensively protected.

AND! It totally explains that song! You know, the rainbow song!

Red and Yellow and Pink and Green…Orange and Purple and Blue
I can see a rainbow, see a rainbow, see a rainbow too…..

AND! It could potentially explain the folktale myths behind rainbows! Which is kind of upsetting because I was really hoping that when I get the chance to find the end of a rainbow a little leprechaun man will be there saying “fiddle de de potatoes, what would ye like for findin’ me?”
And I would say… “Hmm, I would like David Tennant wrapped with pink ribbon for my birthday”

Rose Hancock wants it but Apple don’t make it…What Am I?

2009-01-14T02:18:00.000-08:00

Anyone?

No?

Ha Ha Ha! My genius prevails!

Okay, so what is not made by Apple and had Rose Hancock screaming “No! They’re mine, I dropped them! ALL MINE MUAHAHAHAHA!”*

Answer: NANODIAMONDS!

Get it?!

I thought that was quite witty….

No?

Fine. That’s just fine! Oh don’t worry, I’m not bitter and twisted about it or anything!

Ahem.

Anyway, I’m a bit behind the band wagon on this story, but I thought I’d have a bit of a rant on about it regardless. So Nanodiamonds, what the?

Okay well, way back in prehistory climatic oscillations occurred on earth, essentially there were intermittent periods of global warming and cooling. Just after the earth was exiting a major cold snap “something” happened [insert dramatic music here].

This “something” is said to have triggered a major refreeze of the global climate.
Archaeologists in America have found a layer of small crystallisations a.k.a. Nanodiamonds that date to the period in which global cooling started to occur.

It has been argued that these nanodiamonds support the theory that the earth was disrupted by “some sort of cosmic impact”.

“A swarm of meteorites or comet fragments…would have generated the elevated
temperatures and pressures needed to form diamonds.”

However, there are those who disagree – why? Stacking Faults!
Stacking faults occur in previously documented Nanodiamond samples, however these tiny details are not present in the recent finds. The diamonds also occur in carbon sphericals – such a context has never been documented. Given such facts, it can’t be positively concluded that the diamonds are evidence of cosmic impact.

I like this story because I have a feeling it is going to turn into one of those in depth archaeological clusterfucks which instigate fist fights at conferences. Ahhh, good times.

*okay, maybe good old Rosie wouldn’t say that exactly….maybe just the last bit.

A List for 2008

2009-01-12T00:54:00.000-08:00

Where to start?!In my prolonged absence from on being unexceptional (sorry about that) archaeology has exploded! Okay, so not literally exploded, that would have been disastrous, but a lot of stuff has been happening.

So before we start the New Year with a big bang, a few streamers and a sleazy old man giving you a wink with a toothless grin, I thought it might not be a bad time to mention some of the most popular archaeological discoveries of 2008. The National Geographic web page has released their most popular stories for 2008.

At Number 10: The Inca O-R

In may, archaeologists found that Inca skull surgeons had developed highly sophisticated techniques for a surgical procedure similar to Trepanation. It was even said that by the 1400’s survival rates from the surgery were up to 90%, probably aided by the use of medicinal plants.

Number 9: The not so Lost City of Paititi

Ever heard of Paititi? Stone city, lots of golden statues…anything ringing a bell?No, not El Dorado, but it was similarly pursued by many of explorers and treasure hunters.

Paititi is believed to have been located somewhere east of the Andes Mountains
in the rain forest of southeastern Peru, southwestern Brazil, or northern
Bolivia

Despite the fact that no thoroughly conclusive studies have been presented, premature plans are already in place to make the place a tourist hot spot.

Number 8: A Mother’s Tomb

Good Old Teti, being the loving son and god-king built his mother Sesheshet a tomb to preserve her body for her journey into the afterlife. As he should have, given that Sesheshet’s nobility would probably have greatly aided his shot at the thrown. Quite a feat really, I mean, I think we can all remember the big shit fight that occurred at the end of the fifth dynasty! What a disaster.
Number 7: Stolen Goods? No, it was in the will I swear!

I imagine, as Alexander (a.k.a. the man of my dreams) lay in Babylon on his deathbed, the conversation with his half brother may have followed something along the lines of this:

Alexander: (mutters and murmurs something unintelligible)
Philip II: Hello brother dear (bounds into the room) I’ve just got a few
questions about the will.
Alexander: (continues to mutter, slipping into unconsciousness)
Philip II: Oh come now Alex, I’m trying to discuss something serious I need
you to brighten up a bit! Good god man! What are you wearing? Is that apricot?
Since when do you wear apricot.
Alexander: Phil…..
Philip II: Ah, yes, sorry, right, now regarding the army, I think it would
be best for me to take command.
Alexander: ah…
Philip II: Really?! I’m so glad you agree!
Alexander: but…
Philip II: Oho! Stop it Alex, this flatter will really make me blush oh ho
ho ho!
Alexander: Ph…argh
Philip II: Now that you mention it, you won’t really have much use for
those little ornaments and fancy shields and crowns will you? I mean, why have
it if you can’t flaunt it?
Alexander: garh….
Philip II: Wait! I know! You can give them to me! What a brilliant idea!
Well now that we’ve sorted that, I’d better be off. You know how it is, when
you’re popular, ah it is a hard existence. Toodle pip.
I apologise for that.

Number 6: Huapalcalco Pyramid

I think this discovery, if it is legitimate, is a testament to how much we still don’t know about past peoples, and how much there is still left for us to discover. The pyramid, located in the valley of Tulancingo and associated artefacts do not fit any of the known cultures in the area. Dating suggests that the culture may have been post-Teotihuacan, where several smaller states formed at the collapse of the empire, just before the beginning of the Tula/Toltec.

Number 5: Tomb of the “Excellent One”

You know you have it made in Ancient Egypt when you can afford a tomb at Luxor for your passage into the afterlife. Although, I imagine you may be a bit miffed to find out Hatshepsut’s general planted his necropolis directly over your own tomb, what a twat! Although quite rare, warrior tomb’s are found occasionally, presumably because they gained quite a bit of respect, honour and wealth dealing with civil wars and disruption, particularly at the end of each dynasty.

Number 4: Stonehenge was…wait for it…a Cemetery!

The history of Stonehenge is very complex and the debates are endless. Previous theories all agreed that the monument did have some connection to the dead, but disagreed as to when this occurred – some theories suggested that the monument in its early construction was associated with life and the living, while it was later dedicated to the dead. New analysis of human remains has led archaeologists to now believe that from the very outset, Stonehenge was built as a cemetery.

Number 3: Collapse of the Maya

Self induced drought and climatic oscillations is said to be the main cause behind the collapse of the empire. Research suggests that the Maya relied on seasonal wetlands to help feed a growing population. These places, likely decimated by climatic change, resulted in disastrous consequences. This is a very interesting topic, if you have the time; I definitely recommend you read into it. Furthermore, the research used to support this conclusion may also help contemporary populations tackle the depletion of resources and biodiversity on a local and global scale. GO TEAM!

Number 2: It Was NOT Aliens!

There are two theories concerning how the Ancient Egyptians built the pyramids:

1) Monuments built using external Ramp
2) Monuments build inside out via spiralling inclined tunnel.

A new room discovered inside Khufu’s tomb – that’s the big one, is said to support the second theory. Plans are in place for infrared imaging to take place to record subtle difference in interior materials and temperature, and by proxy reveal “phantoms” of the spiral tunnel. They just have to get a permission slip first. Please, Oh Please Mr. Hawass!

Number 1: Xibalba! I knew it!

This is one of my personal favourites for 2008. Archaeologists uncovered a complex of temples and pyramids within a cave system in Mexico, believed to be a physical construction of the Underworld! Pretty much everything is connected to life, death and sacrifice, which begs the question, what did they do here? Was it used a portal to the afterlife? Was it a sacred area, only seen by few? How often did they use this place? I’m so jealous of the guys who get to go and play in there right now. Fancy a hard working student? Drag me along and we can best friends for life I promise!

I don’t think the list is all that great, there have been plenty of very interesting discoveries that did not make the list. Like Otzi’s genetic heritage or the mummy with the hash stash. What do you guys think? What would make your own top 10 of 2008?

You know you're on holidays when...

2009-01-03T16:15:00.001-08:00

When you find yourself sipping on pina coladas in the sunset on your back patio, watching the hounds harass the multitudes of paparazzi that are desperately clawing at the iron gates.
Yep, that’s when you know you’re in holiday mode (or “I don’t give a flying horsies bum” mode as I to like to call it).

But more blogging shall be on its way soon.

I should as mention that I’ve given birth to a new blog, in the metaphorical sense of giving birth of course. Imagine if you had a baby and it came out as a blog! What a mind trip!

“What is it doctor?” the curious nurse would ask
“OH MY OH GOLLY GOODNESS WINSTON! IT’S A BLOG BABY!”

Yes, I’ve had a coffee of three if you can’t tell. Anyway, the new blog is concentrated more on my personal life. And by that I mean that it is a satirical exploration of the Towers Family, in all its infinite weirdness.
I hope you all had a very merry/happy Christmas (depending on whether you speak English English or American English) and I wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year.

And may we all learn to appreciate the benefits of backpacks in the form of mysterious stuffed animals.

Whispers

2008-12-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

Whispers are starting to spread from the latest archaeological excavations and research on the island of Flores, Indonesia. Hominin specimens found on the island, dubbed Homo floresiensis, more affectionately referred to as the ‘hobbits’ were first reported in 2004. The archaeology of Flores is enigmatic for several reasons; one of the main concerns is that if dating is correct, the hobbits present an archaeological anomaly. If the Flores hominins did coexist for an extensive period after colonisation by modern humans, it would suggest that not all indigenous hominins were replaced by anatomically modern humans.
Coexistence with modern humans has been found in the archaeological record. Evidence from Neanderthals suggests a relatively short coexistence with modern humans, but archaeological research suggests that the Hobbits may have been extant for a far longer period than any other species.
There are also arguments against the assignment of the fossils to Homo floresiensis. Some suggest that the fossils may be diseased moderns or erectus specimens.
The latest whispers are that the new excavations have found evidence that would suggest beyond a doubt that the hominins are in fact a new species, forcing the academia to rethink our models of human evolution and the human story.

After the stories I’ve heard from the AAA conference this year…let the shit fight begin.

'Tis the Season to be Distasteful: 'Osama Bin Lego'

2008-12-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again folks, the season to be jolly…and by jolly I mean eat and drink until the cows come home. I never really understood that saying when I was little, where did the bloody cows go anyway? The local Milko? Anyway, with the joyful season comes the gift shopping period, or the “I would rather have bamboo thrust under my fingernails than go shopping” period as I like to call it. But if your find yourself in a spot of bother trying to find the perfect gift for that special person*, then look no further!

OSAMA BIN LEGO - proudly brought to you by BrickArms, now available in the UK.

The new collectable is:

"The masked follower of 9/11 mastermind Osama Bin Laden comes with a rocket
launcher, assault rifle and grenades….

They also include a Nazi
major, bearing the chilling SS insignia, and a stormtrooper brandishing two
grenade launchers."

As would be expected, the product has been slammed by religious and political groups across the globe. It has been argued that the products glorify terrorism and send mixed messages to children. Lego UK has strongly denied any affiliation with the BrickArms Company and released the following statement in relation to the new product:

“…BrickArms is not licensed by LEGO UK to customise LEGO figures and has no
links to the LEGO brand. LEGO UK is committed to developing toys which enrich
childhood by encouraging imaginative and creative play - and does not endorse
products that do not fit with this philosophy..."

If the Osama Bin Lego collection doesn’t seem a bit distasteful to you then I suggest a strong hit of wheatgrass and a “what the hell is wrong with you?!” followed by your best mate slapping you on the forehead.

*We all have that one person on our Christmas lists that makes you stop and think “Oh [insert four letter word here] what on earth do I get for this clown?....And why is he/she even on my list?”

P.S. I DO NOT ENDORSE THIS PRODUCT.

I've been Warholed!

2008-12-03T22:42:00.000-08:00

Look! Look at me!!! I'm a Warhol! And a Dandy Warhol at that!...even if I do say so myself.

But wait! What have we here?!

Gah! I'm wanted by Azkaban prison?!!! I swear that spell....ah i mean,....hey someone put graffiti on my wanted poster!

I'm famous! Jealous? Well never fear my envy riddled friends for you can be a famous Warhol or a target for those nasty Dementors too! A website has basically put up some photo/image backgrounds, which, using some very weird and wonderful technological manoeuvres, puts you in the photo. So, if you have ever wanted to be Superman, Marilyn Monroe, a Jedi or just loved by Victoria (Posh) Beckham (I haven’t any idea why, I imagine it would be like hugging a bunch of spiky sticks that make a very high pitched squealy sound when you ask them "how you doin'?"), then this is the site for you! Also, I think that no one should ever go through life without seeing their own face on the Mona Lisa…or on a television set.

P.S. Someone should let Robbie Buck know about this website, so then he can make pictures of himself on the TV to make up for not hosting his own TV show.

P.S.S. I mean no offence to Mr. Robbie Buck, he’s a lovely gent…and to the person who wrote on a wall in Graffiti “Robbie buck is an f---head” I say “No he isn’t, you…you…big poo head!” (shakes fist)

P.S.S.S. If you are reading this and thinking ‘who is Robbie Buck’, I say shame on you! Triple J 6-9am weekdays.

P.S.S.S.S. 2 x Double shot latte = Bad Idea.

Meeting solo

2008-12-03T14:33:00.000-08:00

Hi, Have you met solo?

This is, well, part of the fossil I’ll be working on over the next few weeks. He is quite handsome really, this picture does not do him justice. I'll arrange for a photograph of the entire skull to be taken and posted on the site.
Anyway, I'll be spending the next few weeks getting acquainted with solo, taking measurements, describing and researching him in detail.
He does have quite the personality, you can see it in his eyes hahahahaha....no?

And that my friends, is how you know that you have spent way too much time in the lab.

Mossy Otzi

2008-12-03T14:09:00.000-08:00

I don’t know what it is about this guy, but I do find him quite fascinating. Recent studies have found that Otzi has not one, not two, but six different types of moss in his gut. Six different varieties!
This has genuinely surprised archaeologists and scientists working with the Ice mummy, for several reasons, but principally because moss tastes bad. And how do they know this? Remember my Frank and Bob scenario? I told you it was real!
Considering that the mosses tasted disgusting and shared the same nutritional value as cardboard, it has been suggested that they may have been ingested accidentally. Researchers have found that:

“…One type of moss could have been used to wrap food;
another was likely swallowed when the Iceman drank water during the
last few days of his life; and yet another would have been used as a wound
dressing.

The food-wrapping moss is called Neckera complanata. And the
Iceman probably accidentally ingested a moss called Hymenostylium recurvirostrum
along with some drinking water before he died.

And he could have applied the bogmoss Sphagnum imbricatum as
a wound dressing. That particular bogmoss does not grow, at least today, within
about 30 miles (50 km) of the site where Ötzi was found, the researchers say,
suggesting the Iceman must have been a traveler…”

He just grows more interesting by the second. I’m hoping that they will make another documentary with Sir David Attenborough as the narrator, thus combining my two greatest loves on this planet into one super-fantastical-fun-documentary!…

I need to get out more.

For more details, you can find the mossy article here.

The 86th Anniversary

2008-11-27T20:07:00.001-08:00

Okay, I know I said I wouldn’t write another blog, but I forgot to mention the other day that Howard Carter opened Tutankhamen’s tomb 86 years ago last Wednesday. I won’t say anymore though because after about fifty words that actually becomes a blog and before you know it I’ve started delving into procrastination again.

….oops, I Fail.

Hiatus

2008-11-27T02:08:00.000-08:00

In the vain hope that people actually read this little blog, I feel that I should tell you that things are going to be a bit quiet over the next five weeks or so.
Yes, a hiatus in blogging.
Why?
Well, I am a crazy person, and what do crazy people do?
That’s right! They enrol in intensive university courses over summer semester a.k.a. the Christmas holidays.
But it’s Human Evolution?! How could I pass up that opportunity?
I get to spend hours in the lab examining all sorts of fossils! eeeeek!
I think I’m hyperventilating.
So, I’m banning myself from all forms of procrastination, including blogging! If you see me even so much as thinking about writing a blog, write me a comment starting with the words “Procrastination leads to….” And then invent a disease or something that will scare the pants off me and force me back to the study books.
I’m glad we’ve reached this point in our relationship.
Soon we’ll be sending each other bonbons…and banana shoes…and origami scientists…

Popcorn: Quantum of Solace

2008-11-24T03:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, I admit it, I’m a bit of a James Bond fan, so when Quantum of Solace was released I was a tiny bit excited. In accordance with the David Attenborough Accord (Don’t ask, I just love him), I went to see the new Bond flick with my lovely family. It was during this exercise that I realised two things;
1) Going to see a movie at the local cinema is quite expensive.
2) Going to see a movie at the local cinema is bloody expensive actually!

Anyway, back to the point, Daniel Craig.
I was a little harsh when it was announced that new Bond would be a Blonde (haha alliteration)…in fact I believe that exact phrase was something along the lines of “What?! What a load of [insert 4 letter word here]!” - Yes that’s right people, I’m keeping this site PG.

But Mr. Craig surprised me…he was pretty good in Casino Royale, so I had high expectations for Quantum of Solace. First though, I think it’s important to note that this film is a continuation of the Casino Royale storyline. I don’t think many people realised this when they went to see it, partly because the only recognisable continuity in past Bond films was the characters professional occupation, alcoholic beverage of choice and the fact that he was a bit of a man-whore….oops! I just violated my PG rating. Apologies.

Craig puts on another epic performance as Bond, he’s cold, surly and as tough as nails. The action sequences have been stepped up a notch, probably in response to the Bourne films. However, at times, it is very hard to follow what is actually happening in the scene but this is compensated by the rush you feel while actually watching it. Although I do think that some sequences are a bit far fetched, I particularly object to the jumping out of the plane incident, as if they wouldn’t have sustained some serious injuries there! But it was still good!

I think I appreciate this film, and Casino Royale far more than past films because of the performance Craig delivers. He does actually get hurt and bleed and yes, I am looking at you Brosnan! There is a far more human element to the Bond character with Craig at the reins, and not just this superficial and egotistical idea of masculinity.

But what about the Bond Girls? Well I rather liked Camille/Olga Kurylenko, but really didn’t like Strawberry Fields/Gemma Arterton…I don’t know what it was but Ms. Fields just annoyed me and I didn’t feel sad that she…..oops, sorry I’ll try not to spoil anything else for you if you haven’t seen the film yet.

The storyline reflects contemporary issues and what terrorism could eventually lead to. In that sense it was a bit confronting and scary to think about really, but overall I liked the film. And ultimately, it serves its purpose; it provided entertainment and left you with more questions that will lead viewers to the box office again for the next instalment.

'Death = Weird' Revisited

2008-11-15T00:46:00.000-08:00

Recently I published a blog titled ‘Death=Weird’ in which I, perhaps a little to intensely, ranted about my aversion of the article title ‘Top Ten Weird Ways to Deal with the Dead’.
First of all, On Being Unexceptional is just a place for me to get the crazy talk out of my system so my head doesn’t explode. Given that I was particularly surprised to see that someone, and let’s be honest, other than close friends and family, actually made a reference to my blog!
Just to refresh your memories, I argued that using the word “weird” to refer to mortuary practices of different cultures across the world wasn’t exactly appropriate (In my opinion anyway).

A blog which featured on Remote Central does however raise some interesting points about the ‘Top Ten’ article. In the 'Dead=Weird' blog, I stated that:

“To call the article Top 10 WEIRD ways to deal with the dead, implies blatant disrespect for practices of non-western communities. In this day and age, you’d think we’d all be able to respect the beliefs and values of other cultures!”

In retrospect, I think blogging and six cups of coffee really don’t mix. Anyway, Remote Central responded to my caffeinated rant with:

“It might be argued that it is precisely this modern day and age which has done more to destroy, eradicate and oppress the beliefs and values of other cultures…”

In some ways I agree, but I believe it’s important to remember how academia has developed in regard to the interpretations of other cultures. While we do have the big black “Darwinism” and “Cultural Evolutionism” clouds hovering over us, many have tried to examine cultures within their own context, rather than providing another stereotypical account of the ‘exotic’ and ‘primitive’, which was the dominant theme presented in past research.

The author also noted that the title itself was a commercial ploy to grab the attention of the reader. I agree with this wholeheartedly. I would also like to reiterate that it is precisely this kind of commercial ploy that is supporting the parochial mind-set of modern society.

Despite the fact that I felt like a bit of a twit after reading the Remote Central blog, I do stick by my original argument. I feel that using ‘weird’ to elements of different cultures leads to alienation and misconceptions. And yes, I guess I was being a little too pro-extreme-political-correctness, but everyone is entitled to an opinion I say, and this one just happens to be mine.

UNDERWORLD COUNTDOWN

2008-11-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

I know what I’m about to do is frowned upon by many in the archaeological community…but I’m going to do it anyway! Look at me man! I’m a hardcore rebel!

Three words for you ladies and gents…and no, it is not “World of Warcraft”…

It’s TOMB RAIDER: UNDERWORLD!!!

Eeeeekkk! Tomb raider tomb raider tomb raider eeeekkkk!

Okay, so I may be a little bit excited about the new Tomb Raider game, which is set for release on the 21st of November 2008...or if you are a bit of a fan of the action-adventure game genre…its only 8 more sleeps!

Now I think I should explain why I’m getting so worked up over this release.
1) The original Tomb Raider game was genius!
2) The Angel of Darkness game really tainted the series image for a while there…it was like tomb raider fathered a freaky love child with CSI, as Lara stalked the streets of Paris searching for a serial killer, broke into the Louvre and shot at the Mona Lisa…okay maybe that last bit was just me.
3) Archaeology is NEVER this much fun!
4) Archaeologists are never this fantastically hot or amazingly skilled in combat.

Yes, unfortunately Archaeology, despite how it has been portrayed in popular culture, hardly ever involves re-animated corpses trying to bite your arms off or explosive gun battles in art museums. In fact, most archaeological work is done in the lab, yes the lab.
We dress ourselves in those ridiculous white coats and look at stuff under microscopes…and for the record, stuff is a technological term in the archaeological discipline.

So the reason I’m so excitable over this game is because, and let’s face it, Archaeology can be tedious and boring at times. It’s not that I want to be Lara Croft…I mean the only thing we have in common is cup size…and no I’m not referring to a schooner or middy.

And unlike me, Lara never wears a lab coat, which means she’s never had that awkward moment where she realises that having substantial breast tissue gets in the way of the second button, so you have to leave that one open and try to ignore the fact that the dorky asthmatic nincompoop sitting across from you is drooling all over his microscopic specimen as he catches glimpses of your cleavage…all because the stupid lab coats don’t fit! I wonder whose idea that was!….anyway, moving on…

It’s not that I don’t find archaeology exciting and fun; in fact it’s the opposite! I was doing volunteer work and nearly wet myself when I found a fossilised fish scale in the sample I was sorting! But I do wish that once I finally get my degree, my life will have a Lara Croft/Tomb Raider-esque action-adventure feel to it.
You know, travel around the world, uncovering ancient ruins and saving the world from certain doom at the hands of an evil and twisted ex-espionage/military gent with an unfortunate looking scar across his balding head and “Mummy? Why don’t you love me?” issues…Dream big I say.

The game is supposed to be going back to its roots, with more of a focus on outdoorsy adventuring through archaeological sites across the world, giant spiders and octopi, Norse mythology, heaps of explosions, great graphics and a character who can juggle whilst contorting herself into a pretzel.

So if you were a fan of Tomb Raider: Legend, strap yourselves in because Underworld is said to blow ones mind!

Eeeeekkk! Tomb raider tomb raider tomb raider eeeekkkk!

I myself may be a little bit biased toward this type of game because I'm one of those people who looks at a mysterious lever protruding from an ancient monument and thinks "I wonder what happens when i pull this?" without evaluating the cost/benefits first! WOO! Step back! I'm a Wild Child!

But if you’re a bit of a Tomb Raider/Action-Adventure gaming fan…or you just dream of Lara Croft’s hot body lathered in white chocolate, contorted into a pretzel and juggling on your dining table, then check out the website for all sorts of gaming goodies!!!

Eeeeekkk! Tomb raider tomb raider tomb raider eeeekkkk!

BLAST YOU SCAVENGER SCUM!

2008-11-10T16:00:00.000-08:00

In a story a wee bit closer to home…I believe that the Western Australian Museum is with me when I say “BLAST YOU MARITIME SCAVENGERS!” Documented artefacts have been disturbed and stolen from maritime historical sites in Fremantle, Western Australia.

Museum acting chief executive Diana Jones said Long Jetty was declared an historic site in 1988 and was protected under the WA Maritime Archaeology Act 1973.“Long Jetty was recognised as a site of historical significance after the museum’s maritime archaeologists surveyed the area and found a wealth of objects dating as far back as the 1840s,” Ms Jones said.Thousands of bottles and jars, cutlery, lumps of coal, sheep bones and other items were surveyed and documented. Among the personal belongings recovered were watches, toys, shoes, costume jewellery and coins.

Essentially I’m reporting this for two reasons:
1) To promote awareness of the site and the need to protect the local history it represents
2) Provide me with an excuse to say “blast you maritime scavengers” and rant on about bottle collectors.

Bottle collectors essentially go around and dig up archaeological sites to find different types of glass bottles. Fair enough, we all need a hobby...however, from an archaeological perspective, can i just say:

PICK ANOTHER FREAKEN HOBBY! LEAVE THE BOTTLES ALONE!!!

I don’t care how valuable the bottles are, they are a part of the archaeological record and as such reveal a heap of information about past human cultures and activity. AND we can date sites by using bottles, that’s pretty cool right?!

Now I’m hoping you, lovely readers, will all be able to connect the dots and understand what I mean when I say it’s extremely irritating and infuriating when you find that bottle collectors have been active at your site!

They’re basically taking away potential information you can gather from the site! GRRRRRRRR!

Please excuse me while I count backwards from 100.

http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,27574,24615274-2761,00.html

The Artemis Project

2008-11-10T15:48:00.000-08:00

To build or not to build, that is the question.

Now, I just want to clear the air now and state that I for one, as a student of archaeology, am not a fan of rebuilding or reconstructing Ancient monuments.

WAIT!

I know that most of you reading this are thinking “Boo! What a buzz kill! They should call you Ebenezer ‘parochial traditionalist’ scrooge!

So I’d just like to take this moment to say, NO! I’m not partial to reconstruction of Ancient Monuments for a few reasons:

1) They are usually done really, really badly! I love in situ monuments and am grateful that they have survived through time and stand as these undeniable tangible manifestations of past events. But I do not like to visit sites where you can see modern materials tacked onto ancient monuments. That really does just spoil the whole experience, for me anyway.

2) The art and stylistic features of the ancient remains can be quite different in modern reconstructions.

3) The chauvinism of the selected artists and architects employed to reconstruct the damn thing…talk about god complexes!

Anyway, the Selçuk Artemis Culture, Arts, and Education Foundation in conjunction with the University of Vienna announced plans to rebuild the Temple of Artemis.

I can only a assume that this was a massively complicated decision to make, what with archaeological ethics, the global financial crisis, the fact that the temple was formally one of the seven ancient wonders of the world…

WHAT?!
Yes that’s right! The temple of Artemis was once one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.
And it is now set for reconstruction!

Personal biases aside, the project should hopefully be done well if the process for selecting the sculptors is anything to go by:

To find the best sculptures to adorn the restored temple, a lottery will be held to form a selection committee chosen from representatives of 196 U.N. member countries.
Each selected representative will then select two sculptors from the nation they represent. The selected sculptors will then take part in workshops run by the Artemis Culture, Arts and Education Foundation.
The sculptors will first begin work on the cubic bases for the columns, with sculptures to be inspired by either of two sayings attributed to Heracleitos of Ephesus: “War is the father of everything” and “Everything flows and nothing abides.”
An international jury will then choose two sculptures from all the pieces produced by artists to be featured in the temple. One of the winning sculptures will be displayed on one of the cubic circles and the other will be displayed in the temple's yard.

You can find the rest of the article here

Now…is it just me, or does this project just sound like a very elaborate and very expensive version of Antiques Roadshow with somewhat of a renovation rescue-esque twist?

Just me?...how unusual…I’m just going to go and play with my fossil collection now…

http://www.voicesnewspaper.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=2401

297 vs. 139 The Democrats Ding!

2008-11-04T21:34:00.000-08:00

297 - 139

Yes, Ladies and Gents, the new president elect of the United States of America is Barack Obama.

I’d like to wish President Obama congratulations and good luck for the future.

I am a little miffed that the results of the election weren’t a bit closer though. A friend of mine announced on national radio that he would get the McCain haircut if Obama lost the election…I would have liked to have seen him freak out a little before Obama rode home to the White House on a last minute surge of democratic votes.

But I’m still very happy that Obama has dinged, and I congratulate everyone who voted in the states. It was the greatest turn out since 1960.

I also want to know if Sarah Palin intends to throw in her political hat and pursue the glittery life of a porn star.

DEATH = WEIRD?

2008-11-04T15:20:00.000-08:00

I came across this article when I was adventuring around the interwebs, while the content of the article was very interesting, I do object to the title: Top 10 Weird Ways to Deal with the Dead.

I think it’s important to understand that death is a very traumatic event for any society, regardless of time period or cultural beliefs. Mortuary practices often result from the needs of the living and as such, can tell us about the culture of a community, rather than just information about the individual who was buried.
Mortuary practices, no matter how different from what is perceived as “normal” westernised burials, all serve a social function: to help the living cope with the feelings of loss and grief for the deceased. These practices often hold a community together in times of social desperation. To call the article Top 10 WEIRD ways to deal with the dead, implies blatant disrespect for practices of non-western communities. In this day and age, you’d think we’d all be able to respect the beliefs and values of other cultures!

Anyway, enough of my little rant, I’ve got the flu and a migraine = grumpy!
Below is a list of the rituals that made the list of the Top 10 Weird Ways to Deal with the Dead.

Enjoy!

Number 10: Towers of Silence
The body of the deceased was taken to an exposed area, usually a stony outcrop and exposed to the elements and animal activity. After the body was reduced to bones, bleached from exposure to weather conditions, they were gathered up and either redeposited somewhere else or destroyed. Such practices have been recorded in Indigenous groups around the world, but particularly by peoples that followed the Zoroastrianism doctrine.

Number 9: Tree Burials
Heavily documented in Indigenous American populations, the deceased person was often wrapped in a shroud and placed in a tree or hung from the tree to decompose. After decomposition reached its final stages, the bones where often reburied.

Number 8: Viking Ship Burials
Although not a uniform trend, many Vikings where placed in a ship after death with their personal belongs, items of value and food, and then sent out to sea, buried or even cremated. The grave goods associated with bodies are said to be items needed for the afterlife.

Number 7: Tibetan Sky Burial
The deceased was placed on an exposed outcrop and left to be devoured by animals, usually birds of prey. There has even been a ritual documented where the deceased was bathed in some form of food products to encourage animals to feast on the corpse.

Number 6: Bog Bodies
There are two types of bog body burials, those which preserve the soft tissue and those that don’t. These types of burials are strictly bounded to areas of Europe where the ideal conditions for preservation occur. Bog burials are very mysterious; some bodies are shown to be treated with respect, while others have endured post-mortem practices that indicate some form of social contempt for the deceased.

Number 5: Neanderthal Cave Burials
The deceased was interned in a dark niche of a cave or crevasse and left to decompose. Ritualistic displays such us the deposition of flowers with the deceased have been documented at Shanidar cave, however, the archaeological record and stratigraphy show that this could be a taphonomic factor, cause by animal activity within the cave.

Number 4: Plastination
Made famous by scientist Gunther von Hagens, this practice involves the dissection of the body of the deceased in several different layers, which are then coated with a hardening preservation agent. The bodies, which have been donated for scientific research, are often then used for education purposes.

Number 3: Balinese Cremation
The body of the deceased is carried to a burning ground where it is then placed in a receptacle, and cremated. These ceremonies celebrate the life of the individual and are often very exuberant and energetic.

Number 2: Cryonics
The deceased in interned in a vat of liquid nitrogen solution shortly after death, and will remain frozen until such a time that science enables a cure for disease/death.

Number 1: Mummification
Most famous of all mummification practices are those of the Ancient Egyptians, which involved the removal of vital organs from the deceased and pouring salt into the body, before interning the deceased into a sarcophagus and laid to rest in a tomb. However, there are other forms of mummification which occur all over the world, including those bodies found on the Canary Islands and those in the Andes.

http://www.livescience.com/history/top10-after-death.html
http://www.abm-enterprises.net/artgall2/vangogh_skull_cigarette.jpg

Pony Pony Pony Pony Pony Pony

2008-11-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

Yes, its that time of year again folks!

Melbourne Cup Day!

Yes, it’s the race that stops the nation! And the race that is usually followed by cries of joy and yelps of dismay as we lay our hard earned shrapnel down on a Pony or two at the local TAB. Now, as Melbourne Cup has put everybody in a betting frenzy, I thought I offer up some tips on how to pick a winner.

“But what experience do you have?” did I hear you ask?

Well last year, in a stoke of what I would call my pure brilliance...and what others would call pure ass and luck…I picked the winner and won myself a handsome sum of moolahs.

So you can spend all day looking at the statistics and analysing weight/age ratios

Or

You can be like me and just pick the names you like!

This year I’ve gone with:
Ice Chariot (because that sounds like me, cold and bitter)
Alessandro Volta (because let’s face it, the guy was a legend!)

I also have a suggestion for future cup carnivals regarding Fashions on the field.
Yeah ok, picking the best dressed person at the cup is all fine and dandy, but I’m thinking it could be better…like, what if the contenders actually had to have running race in their frocks!
Imagine!

So that concludes my magical tips for this year’s race.
Now, I’m just going to sit back and watch as the rest of Australia splurges over 8 million on our Equine friends.

Mummy Madness!

2008-11-03T14:36:00.000-08:00

In extremely exciting news this week, mitochondrial DNA analysis has revealed that the Tyrolean mummy, known as Otzi, has a different phylogenetic structure than that of contemporary Human populations!

Mito-what? Phylo-huh? And who the hell is Ozti!!!

Okay, I’ll go back a step.

Tyrolean Mummy = Otzi the Iceman, a mummy found in the Alps on the Austrian-Italian border, dated to the Neolithic period. Interestingly, Otzi was found to have a number of Tattoos, an arrow in his back and cranial trauma, clearly not a popular man before his death. I know right! How totally punk rock was Otzi!

Anyway...
Bored in a lab one day:
Frank: Hey Bob…
Bob: Yes, Frank?
Frank: In a fight between the Pope and the Dalai Lama, who do you think would win?
Bob: Frank, have you been watching Fight Club again?!
Frank: I’m Bored!
Bob: Why don't you do some work then?
Frank: Gah! Fine…

(a few minutes later)

Frank: Hey Bob…
Bob: Yes Frank?
Frank: Say you were going to die, what would be your last meal?
Bob: Jeez Frank! Morbid much?!
Frank: Sorry, but I was just looking at the “O-Dawg” and I was wondering what his last meal was…
Bob: Hey! I know! Let’s examine his stomach contents and re-create the meal!!
Frank: Great idea!

The Frank and Bob scenario did actually occur and the scientists involved found that:
a) Ozti ingested a number of things before he died including meat, roots, grains and fruit.
b) It tasted disgusting!

Bored in the lab on another day:
Bob: You look a bit like him you know.

Frank: Huh? Look like who? Brad Pitt? Edward Norton?

Bob: No Frank! I'm not talking Fight Club.

Frank: Oh, sorry.

Bob: You look a bit like our friend here...
Frank: the "O-dawg"? Really?
Bob: Yeah, you’ve certainly got his nose.
Frank: Hey! Here’s a wacky idea!
Bob: Well you are well aware of my fondness for wacky ideas Frank, do continue!
Frank: Let’s extract some DNA and map his phylogenetic heritage!
Bob: What a brilliant Idea Frank!

And Bob was right; it was a brilliant idea, Frank.

Okay, let's talk science:
DNA = Deoxyribonucleic acid

DNA = the building blocks of life. Essentially, DNA is like an instruction manual for the development and function of all forms of life – from us humans to viruses.

To keep it simple, there are a few different types of DNA, the ones relevant to this story are:

Nuclear DNA = found in the nucleus of a cell, if you’re a CSI fan, this is the DNA they always jabber on about. This type of DNA does not however preserve very well in the archaeological record.

Mitochondrial DNA = (mtDNA) found in the mitochondria of a cell and is passed down from mother to child in a matrilineal relationship. This type of DNA is more commonly preserved in the archaeological record.

mtDNA is therefore used to map genetic links between populations of the past and also present. Essentially, the mapping of mtDNA has shown that modern populations have all evolved from a few different genetic branches, all of which are believed to have been passed down from a single apical ancestor – referred to by scientists as ‘Eve’ or 'mitochondrial Eve'.

A book written by Bryan Sykes entitled “The Seven daughters of Eve” details the theories and principles of human evolution and genetic inheritance. It also traces the genetic inheritance of modern human populations to seven genetically different groups. It’s a pretty good read actually.

Anyway, the DNA mapping of Otzi the Iceman found that he belonged to Group K, who shared the apical ancestor tentatively dubbed “Katrina”. However, each group has several sub-groups.
What was interesting about this case is that Otzi does not belong to any of the previously documented sub-groups of the K-group!!

He’s a totally new genetic sub-group!!!!

I know some of you are sitting there saying “Maybe he was just retarded”, but leading scientists studying Otzi suggest that he represents a now extremely rare if not extinct genetic group.

Is that not the single, most fantastical-cool thing you’ve heard this week?!

Anyone?

No?

Okay, clearly just me then.

Well screw you guys!! I’m still going to have my “Ozti has no friends” party!

http://www.archaeology.org/news/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/127631.php
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081030/sc_nm/us_iceman_children;_ylt=AhfN5sqzdi8yU9DBgx7D8kwhANEA
http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/06_01/otzi_468x368..jpg

Romanov Resurrection

2008-10-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

As of February 2008, the Romanov case was stamped with an official “case closed” label and filed on a shelf to collect dust. However, an article released by the RIA Novosti; Russian news and information agency, has announced that additional excavations are planned for next year.

The Romanov’s are more famously remembered as the Tsar of Russia and his family. After the Rebellion in 1918, Tsar Nicholas and his family, along with a few servants and the family doctor were killed by the Bolsheviks. The bodies were then stripped and discarded into a grave, dosed in sulphuric acid and buried. Another two bodies were located in a grave near the main burial.

Recent DNA testing of the Tsar and Tsarina’s living relatives has confirmed the identities of those found in the main grave as being the Romanov’s (excluding two of the five children) and their servants. The two bodies in the second grave were identified as Maria and Alexi, the two children missing from the main grave.

There isn’t anything funny about this story; I’m just very interested in this case.

And I’m more than a little bit happy that archaeology was able to say “AAHA! In your face Disney and other silly people who suggested that Anastasia escaped! You are INCORRECT!”…or something like that…

For more info on this amazing story check out the article by Peter Gill (et. al) 1999 – Identification of the Romanov family by DNA analysis - you can find it in the Nature Genetics journal, or at http://en.rian.ru/russia/20081027/117976408.html

Old Habits Die Hard

2008-10-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

We all know how hard it is to break a habit, smoking, excessive drinking, messing with information pages on Wikipedia…etc. But I think this one takes the cake.

Photo: http://ded-i.deviantart.com/gallery/

An American Civil War re-enactor was shot in the shoulder during a documentary last month.
While injuries would not appear to be uncommon, (if you ask me, carrying around firearms and swords is just an accident waiting to happen) authorities have stated that it does reiterate the importance of “safety first” procedures for all re-enactment enthusiasts.

But, this story does get a little better, the gentleman who was shot was re-enacting a Union Soldier. The Isle of Wight Sheriffs office launched CSI: Virginia, using the film footage of the battle re-enactment to narrow down the list of suspects.

It was found that the shooter was indeed a confederate re-enactor.
Yeah, you wanted realism Hollywood you got it!

I don’t know about you, but if I was the currently hospitalised 78 year old Union soldier, I would be asking some questions…or use my nerdy knowledge and powers of seduction to find out the shooters name and place of residency and then...I'll let you use your imagination.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081025/ap_on_re_us/re_enactors_safety

Tiwanaku = Junkies!

2008-10-25T04:43:00.000-07:00

That’s right Ladies and Gents, the Tiwanaku were Junkies! Archaeologists have discovered the first solid evidence of Ancient drug use in the Andes.

Trace amounts of a chemical known to have hallucinogenic properties has been found on the hair of two mummies found in the Apaza Valley, Chile.

The Tiwanaku are believed to be the precursor civilisation to the Inca, and have a rich but somewhat enigmatic cultural history. However, 'Snuff Kits' are some of the most common finds associated with the Tiwanaku mummies.

Ergo, ANCIENT DRUG USE!

Some archaeologists argue that the drug itself may have been used for medicinal purposes, such as pain relief.

Others suggest that the skull damage identified on cranial X-rays of the recovered mummies is evidence of continued ritualistic drug use.

To fully understand if the latter is a legitimate possibility, I suggest a cranial X-ray comparison of the Tiwanaku mummies and Kate Moss.

For more information see http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/10/081022-drug-mummies_2.html

The first and a story of the last.

2008-10-16T02:40:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to on being unexceptional...

The purpose of 'on being unexceptional' is not to make particularly well informed judgements and recommendations about current issues in society. Rather, it provides me with an outlet to:
a) Splurge my insane nerdy rants,
b) Procrastinate from things i should be doing, like being an adult etc.
c) Take the piss,
d) Report on the many weird and wonderful events that take place in my life on a daily basis.

Although I can't promise hard hitting political commentary or socio-cultural exposes, on being unexceptional will give great insight to the mind of a slightly chemically unbalanced individual with a unique outlook on life. There is every chance that this will be hilarious...but maybe not.

My advice - Remember your seatbelts!

I feel that blogging is quite a lonely little pastime. We are very much faceless and indiscernible entities in the big virtual pool known as the inter-web. To rectify this situation I have decided to spin a little tale that will reveal a bit more about myself.

I’m a student in Archaeology at the University of Queensland.
I’m Nineteen.
I’m weird, stubborn, argumentative, shy, optimistic (usually), honest and competitive…otherwise known as a pain in the ass.
Therein lies my problem.
After several years of obscure situations, I’ve come to accept the fact that all sorts of weird and wonderful situations happen to me on a daily basis.

Today I wish to share with you my latest…and sadly last adventure in a humble antique store.

One fine afternoon, a few of my University amigos and I decided to go on a little antique store scavenger hunt. We were visiting such store when I came across a lovely dinner set. It was beautiful! Well designed, elegant, only missing a few bits and pieces.

Let us call the antique dealer Fred.

Fred: It’s a lovely collection, isn’t it?
Me: Beautiful!
Fred: Yeah, it’s Chinese porcelain too, very lovely.
Me: Really? It is pretty, but unfortunately, I’m only a poor uni student, I can’t afford that price and still eat this week hahahaha….(Haggling)
Fred: Aw, that’s too bad. (Walks away)

First I couldn’t believe my haggling attempt had failed, where was his heart?!
And secondly, I had a really hard time believing that the set was porcelain. The pieces were quite heavy, I don’t know, it just didn’t feel like Porcelain.

I asked a friend for her car keys, which, ever so conveniently has one of those LED laser lights on them, you know the ones – they can interfere with the navigation systems in aeroplanes.

Anyway, my point is, porcelain is a translucent ceramic.

What does that mean? It means light will pass through it, so if I shine a laser through one side of the piece, I should be able to see it from the other side.
I did so, using the Laser.

No light!

The beautifully crafted ceramics were NOT PORCELAIN!

Me: Um, excuse me…(to Fred)
Fred: Change your mind about the set?
Me: It’s not porcelain
Fred: Yes it is.
Me: No, it isn’t.
Fred: YES! It is. I know porcelain when I see it!
Me: If that were true, then you wouldn’t call that set porcelain!
Friends: (Maybe we should stop here, I think we should go, damn it Jordan why can’t you just let it go?)
Fred: And what the hell would you know?!
Me: Well obviously a hell of a lot more than you! Porcelain is translucent, that set is not! Therefore, NOT PORCELAIN!
Fred: I have been in this business for years!…
Me: Clearly not long enough for you to learn to distinguish between types of ceramics then!
Fred: If you don’t like the price you can go elsewhere! That is an authentic…
Me: Yeah! An authentic fake!

By that point, my friends were dragging me out by my arms and Fred was shaking his fist as we drove off.

A life time ban was my punishment.