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In this study, a Tara thangka (from a complete set of 21) dating to the mid-Qing Dynasty (1776–1839 CE) at Daxingshan Temple in Xi'an, Shaanxi, China was analyzed using various techniques, including portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (p-XRF), Raman spectroscopy (RS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), optical microscopy (OM), and mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Through a multi-analytical methodology, in situ non-invasive testing was complemented with an analysis of a limited number of samples. By complementary evidence derived from the above analyses, it can be determined that the thangka was painted on a hemp substrate, with common colorants such as cinnabar, orpiment, gold, azurite, and malachite, and porcine glue as binding material. These results provided important scientific data for the production crafts of the precious Tara thangkas, contributing to the revelation of its value in art history and enabling conservators to make informed conservation decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study identified and interpreted an adhesive used in the making of a tiara of the mid-Qing Dynasty (1776-1839 CE), in the collection of the Tang Clan Folk Museum. By performance of mass spectrometry-based proteomics, a sample of adhesive residue was identified as bovine collagen proteins at the molecular level with high confidence. The result highlights the first example of accurate determination of the origin of the adhesive adopted in the tian-tsui craft, providing novel information and contributing to study of the significance, development, and exchange of tian-tsui craftsmanship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to identify the fibre material of the pall imprint excavated from the Peng-state cemetery in Shanxi, biomass spectrometry was applied to determine the amino acid sequences of the residual protein extracted from the soil underneath the imprint. The sequences were searched against a standard protein sequence database. A well-preserved silk pall sample from the Warring States Period was used as a comparative template. The protein extracted is identified as silk fibroin ( Bombyx mori). This finding indicates that the extremely degraded pall was made of silk and that the deceased in the Peng-state cemetery enjoyed high social status. In this way, a novel methodology, which is very promising in uncovering the origin of silk, could be initiated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occurrence degree of the accident on Zhejiang freeway is graded. Evaluation indicator system of weather impact on freeway is established. We use principal component analysis to extract meteorological indicators, and use Logistic regression to establish evaluation model of meteorological indicator, thereby determining evaluation grade of traffic weather impact. Via application test, it is proved that the evaluation on traffic weather condition by the model corresponds with actual situation , which can provide certain decision-making basis for traffic department and the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]