Blasts from the past.

In the article "Blasts from the past" from Science News, researchers have made several interesting discoveries about historical figures and their lives. Chemical analyses of a 2,000-year-old perfume bottle from an ancient Roman grave revealed that the Romans used patchouli oil, a scent that is still used today. Infrared and X-ray scans of paper bills made by Benjamin Franklin's printing press showed that colorful threads and shiny mineral residues were used to prevent counterfeiting. Ludwig van Beethoven's DNA suggests that he likely died of liver failure, as he had a genetic risk for liver disease and suffered from a hepatitis B infection. An analysis of impressionist paintings found that air pollution during the Industrial Revolution affected the colors and visibility of the artwork. Finally, it is suggested that the 17th-century astronomer Christiaan Huygens may have needed glasses, which could explain why his telescopes were not as sharp as those of his peers. [Extracted from the article]