Objective: To address the critical gap that existing medical large language model evaluation systems are predominantly based on Western medical paradigms and lack specialized assessment standards for the field of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), this study constructs a comprehensive evaluation framework specifically designed for TCM clinical large language models, providing scientific assessment tools for their development, validation, and clinical application. Methods: This framework addresses the critical issue of missing TCM evaluation standards by incorporating TCM-specific elements such as pattern differentiation and treatment determination, as well as formula and herb recommendations, while emphasizing patient safety and data privacy. Results: The framework encompasses three core dimensions: (1) clinical scenario coverage and authenticity, including renowned physician case mining, pattern identification assistance, and therapy recommendations; (2) core diagnostic and therapeutic capability support, including symptom terminology recognition, pattern identification reasoning, and medical record generation; and (3) clinical application maturity and safety assurance, including data diversity, output reliability, and privacy protection. Conclusion: This evaluation system provides essential tools for the development and clinical deployment of TCM large language models, facilitating the responsible integration of AI technology into traditional medicine practice while preserving the theoretical integrity of TCM.
Guasha, an external therapeutic modality in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is grounded in meridian and acupoint theory and demonstrates favorable preventive and therapeutic effects on painful conditions, degenerative bone and joint diseases, and other disorders. With increasing health awareness among the public, scraping therapy has gained widespread popularity owing to its simplicity, ease of application, and notable efficacy. However, the lack of unified technical standards and norms for TCM health care services such as Guasha gives rise to safety hazards and inconsistent therapeutic effectiveness. To standardize the practice of Guasha, the China Health and Wellness Service Center, the Institute of Basic Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine at the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other institutions jointly developed the Technical Operation Standards for Traditional Chinese Medicine Health Preservation and Wellness Services (Non-Medical)-Guasha (TOSG). Referencing the latest advances in TCM scraping therapy, this standard provides norms and guidance for the scraping procedure and its appropriate scope of application. This article summarizes and interprets the core content of the standard, with the aim of clarifying the indications and contraindications of Guasha, guiding correct operational methods, ensuring operational safety and hygiene, safeguarding the physical and mental health of recipients, and improving overall service quality. The formulation and promotion of this standard are conducive to advancing the standardized and regulated development of Guasha.
Objective: In order to compare the characteristics of two mouse models of dry eye disease (DES) established by scopolamine hydrobromide (SCOP) and atropine sulfate (ATPS). Additionally, the effect of paeoniflorin (PF) was evaluated to verify the reliability of models. Methods: Following adaptive feeding, C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to five groups: Normal Control (NC), SCOP model, SCOP+PF, ATPS model, and ATPS+PF. The SCOP group mice were subcutaneously injected with 2.5 mg/mL SCOP solution at 25 mg/kg (0.2 mL each time, twice daily at 10:00 and 16:00) into the nape of the neck. For the ATPS group, 1% ATPS ophthalmic gel (5 μl each time, three times daily at 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00) was administered as local eye drops. Mice in the SCOP+PF and ATPS+PF groups were administered a 1% PF solution (5 μl each time, three times a day) 15 min after modeling for 14 days, respectively. General health and ocular changes in the mice were observed throughout the study. The Schirmer Test (SIT), Tear Film Breakup Time (BUT), Corneal Fluorescein Staining Score (FLS), and Tear Ferning Test (TFT) were conducted at 7 and 14 days. Two staining techniques were used to evaluate the characteristics of the two DES models: Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to examine the morphology of corneal and lacrimal gland tissues, while periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining assessed the number of goblet cells in the conjunctiva. Results: General observation showed that mice in SCOP group were agitated and irritable, with significantly increased activity, and exhibiting increased water intake and slight weight loss. In contrast, the ATPS group presented no significant changes in general condition but began to present secretions from the ocular surface from day 3. The ophthalmologic evaluation showed a significantly insufficient tear secretion in SCOP group, which worsened with the time of manufacture of the model. Regarding changes in BUT and FLS, symptoms were more severe in ATPS group than in SCOP group on the 7 th day of the experiment, while the opposite occurred on day 14. The fern-like substances in tear crystallization in both model groups significantly decreased. Histopathological examinations of the ocular accessory tissues revealed significant damage to the lacrimal gland in the SCOP group, along with disordered corneal morphology and reduced conjunctival goblet cells in the ATPS group. Treatment of PF was effective in improving tear secretion, stabilizing the tear film homeostasis and restoring corneal injury in both SCOP and ATPS models. Conclusion: Both models induced relatively mild dry eye symptoms. The SCOP modeling method, which inhibits parasympathetic nerve excitation to reduce tear and mucin secretion, is characterized by decreased tear secretion, a slow onset, and long-lasting effects, making it suitable for establishing long-term mild to moderate dry eye syndrome. In contrast, the ATPS modeling method primarily induces ocular surface damage, has a rapid onset, and shows compensatory recovery after one week, making it suitable for short-term mild DES. Both methods are applicable for the study of the early pathogenesis of tear-deficient DES, as well as its prevention and treatment.
In recent years, acupuncture clinical research has developed rapidly in the context of internationalization, with increasing evidence of its therapeutic efficacy, highlighting the need for research methods specific to acupuncture. Registry studies, as one of the prominent types of real-world study (RWS), face challenges such as insufficient data standardization and procedural normalization. The Guidance on the implementation of registry study on acupuncture and moxibustion , issued by the China Association for Acupuncture and Moxibustion (CAAM) in 2022, provide a comprehensive framework for standardizing such studies. This article adopts the “Effect of Acupuncture on Ovarian Function in Patients with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: a Patient Registry Study”, led by the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, as a practical case study. By integrating the guideline provisions with case reports, it offers a detailed interpretation of the specific practical details of registry study on acupuncture and moxibustion, covering aspects such as project establishment, research design, implementation process, and organizational management. The aim is to assist readers in applying the guidelines to registry studies on acupuncture and moxibustion, thereby enhancing the scientific rigor and standardization of acupuncture clinical research and providing methodological references for advancing evidence-based acupuncture medicine.
As digital technology continues to advance, its application in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) weight management has become increasingly widespread, offering a more convenient and efficient approach to health management. However, there has been a persistent lack of clear guidelines for deploying digital services in this domain. In response to this gap, the Hunan Provincial Association of Chinese Medicine & Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine introduced the Digital Service Standards for Traditional Chinese Medicine Weight Management (T/HAICWM 001—2024) in August 2024. This standard defines the scope, key terminology, service requirements, fundamental processes, and methods for evaluation and improvement concerning digital services in TCM weight management. This paper elucidates the core content and significance of the standard, aiming to assist relevant users in its comprehension and practical application.
Objective: Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology is primarily attributed to embryo quality, uterine abnormalities (including endometritis and abnormal uterine morphology and structure), and immune factors. In Western medicine, oral doxycycline or intrauterine perfusion therapy is commonly used, while cyclosporine and aspirin are frequently prescribed for immune-related factors; however, their efficacy remains unsatisfactory. This article explores an optimal traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-assisted approach for improving pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This article presents the treatment of an infertility case complicated by endometrial inflammation and immune imbalance. A self-formulated modified Wenjing Zaoci Decoction (温经皂刺汤) was administered by enema to treat endometritis. In addition, a combination of Chaihu Guizhi Ganjiang Decoction (柴胡桂枝干姜汤) and Wenjing Decoction (温经汤) was used to regulate the six meridians and restore immune balance. Results: Following combined treatment with TCM and Western medicine, the patient successfully conceived and delivered after embryo transfer. Conclusion: TCM treatment emphasizes the regulation of yin and yang, the harmonization of cold and heat, and the maintenance of immune balance, thereby contributing to successful pregnancy outcomes.
Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA), an innovative treatment within the U.S. military medical system, has achieved transformative progress over the past two decades through its standardized auricular acupuncture model for analgesia. This paper critically evaluates BFA’s clinical merits and systemic challenges according to the literature review. While BFA demonstrates rapid-onset analgesia and reduced opioid reliance in military pain management, its evidence base remains constrained by significant methodological limitations, including heterogeneous clinical plans, insufficient standardization, and limited adoption within civilian healthcare systems. Notably, institutional innovations within the U.S. military, such as tiered acupuncturist certification frameworks, have enhanced the rigor of procedure, yet civilian implementation persists with dual barriers: inconsistent operational standardization and low provider acceptance. This paper proposes three strategic priorities: (1) foundational mechanistic studies elucidating BFA’s neurophysiological pathways via advanced neuroimaging and omics technologies; (2) military-civilian collaborative application of BFA; and (3) multimodal technological integration, including laser-acupuncture hybrids and AI-assisted point localization systems. The U.S. military’s experience underscores that the application of acupuncture in military medicine not only need technical innovation but also systemic policy-level support, which has critical insights for building a military acupuncture system with characteristics in China.
Objective: To investigate the effects of Paeonol-Poria cocos polysaccharide combination on the regulation of glycolipid metabolism in rats with myocardial infarction by targeted metabolomics. Methods: A rat myocardial infarction model was established. Echocardiography, histopathology and metabolomics were used to assess the efficacy of the combination therapy. Results: The results demonstrated that Paeonol - Poria cocos polysaccharide combination led to significant improvements in cardiac function, with a reduction in ventricular dilatation and fibrosis. Metabolomics analysis identified 7 differential metabolites, significantly enriched in 5 core pathways: 1) protein digestion and absorption, 2) carbon metabolism in cancer centers, 3) arginine biosynthesis, 4) aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and 5) ABC transport pathway, which highlights the unique advantages of Traditional Chinese medicine’s multi-targeted metabolic modulation in the treatment of myocardial infarction. Conclusion: The combination of Paeonol - Poria cocos polysaccharide demonstrated significant improvements in cardiac function and inhibited ventricular dilatation and fibrosis in rats with myocardial infarction. This was achieved by synergistically regulating 5 core metabolic pathways: protein digestion and absorption, carbon metabolism in tumor centers, arginine biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and ABC transporter protein.
Acute and critical illness refers to acute conditions necessitating urgent intervention and critical illness that directly threatens patient survival, involving severe organ failure and unstable vital signs. Chinese patent medicine dispensing is the process of preparing Chinese patent medicines for patients under the guidance of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory and entails legal responsibility. As one of the principal dosage forms of Chinese patent medicines, tablets offer the advantages of precise dosing and stable quality and are widely used in the treatment of acute and critical diseases. However, at present, the dispensing of Chinese patent medicines in tablet form for clinical acute and critical illness is encumbered by several challenges, including nonstandardized techniques, insufficient equipment and technical support, a shortage of qualified personnel, and the potential for drug interactions and incompatibility. To address these issues, the research team from the Dispensing Standardization Research Center of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine has led the development of the Technical Specifications for Dispensing Commonly Used Chinese Patent Medicines in Clinical Emergency and Critical Care, Part 7: Tablet, which standardizes 9 dispensing procedures for emergency tablets in medical institutions, including prescription review, purchase acceptance, inventory management, prescription deployment, prescription review, drug distribution and medication accounting, medication monitoring, prescription evaluation, and pharmacovigilance. On the basis of a systematic interpretation of the core content of the specification, this paper further analyzed the practical challenges encountered by different levels of medical institutions during the implementation process, such as disparities in infrastructure, human resources, and informatization; discussed the anticipated clinical safety and economic cost-effectiveness following the implementation of the specification; and conducted a comparative analysis and integration pathway assessment with Western emergency pharmaceutical care guidelines. The aim is to provide a reference for advancing the standardization, precision, and internationalization of the dispensing of Chinese patent medicine tablets in acute and critical cases.
Despite the extensive clinical application of bloodletting therapy and moxibustion therapy, a notable gap persists in the literature concerning the criteria for selecting acupoints, their combinations, and the specific diseases they address. This lack of comprehensive understanding impedes the optimization of these traditional therapeutic approaches. This study seeks to bridge this gap by employing data mining techniques to elucidate the fundamental principles underpinning these therapies and to identify the most effective criteria for the selection and combination of acupoints. Medical cases involving acupuncture therapy, bloodletting therapy, and moxibustion therapy were extracted from the “Selected Readings of Acupuncture Expert’s Medical Cases.” Professionals were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the cases. Data analysis was conducted via TCM Miner tools, with a focus on frequency and association rules to discern patterns in acupoint selection and combination. A total of 129 medical cases involving bloodletting therapy and 122 cases involving moxibustion therapy were analyzed. Bloodletting therapy was predominantly employed to treat conditions such as stroke (A07.01.01) and sore throat (A14.03), with Taiyang (EX-HN5), Quze (PC3), and Weizhong (BL40) emerging as the most frequently utilized acupoints. The bladder meridian of foot-Taiyang was more commonly employed, with acupoints predominantly located in the head, neck, and limbs. Network analysis revealed that the acupoint pairs Quze-Taiyang (PC3-EX-HN5) and Quze-Weizhong (PC3-BL40) were the most commonly used. Moxibustion therapy was primarily adopted to treat gastralgia (A17.30) and diarrhea (A04.03.07), with Zusanli (ST36), Qihai (CV6), and Guanyuan (CV4) being the most frequently utilized acupoints. The Ren Meridian was more commonly used, with acupoints primarily located in the abdomen. Network analysis indicated that the acupoint pairs Zhongwan-Qihai (CV12-CV6), Qihai-Zusanli (CV6-ST36), and Pishu-Zusanli (BL20-ST36) were the most frequently used. This study provides valuable insights into the selection of optimal diseases, acupoints, and their combinations for bloodletting and moxibustion therapies. The findings from data mining offer a deeper understanding of the clinical applications of these traditional therapies, potentially guiding more effective treatment strategies in the future. The results underscore the importance of further research to refine and validate these findings, ultimately enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of bloodletting and moxibustion in clinical practice.
The modernization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnostic theories involves both the preservation of classical medical wisdom and the integration of advanced scientific technologies to meet the evolving demands of contemporary medicine. This paper reviews the state of theoretical research on TCM diagnostic methods in 2024, encompassing inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiry, palpation, and characteristic diagnostic approaches, and succinctly summarizes recent advances and emerging research trends in this field. Furthermore, in response to the requirements of modernization, this review proposes strategies to propel the development of TCM diagnostic theories, with emphasis on strengthening theoretical foundations, enhancing clinical applicability, and integrating intelligent technologies.
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), was renamed in 2020 to emphasize its metabolic nature. Presently, modern medicine faces challenges in providing effective treatments for MAFLD. In contrast, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has demonstrated potential in alleviating clinical symptoms and improving the liver function. Modified Linggui Yinchen Decoction (M-LGYCD) is derived from Lingguizhugan and Yinchenhao decoctions. This blend is specifically designed to invigorate the spleen, soothe the liver, and alleviate the stagnation of turbid yin. This study develops a randomized, double-blind, positive drug-controlled trial protocol to investigate the effects of M-LGYCD on apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1)/lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity in reverse cholesterol transport. It is planned to recruit 124 outpatient and inpatient obese MAFLD patients with syndrome of spleen deficiency and liver depression, along with turbid yin stagnation for a period of 8 weeks. The research goal is to assess the efficiency and safety of M-LGYCD by analyzing liver and kidney functions, blood lipids, metabolic indicators, and patient-reported symptoms before and after treatment. Additionally, plasma ApoA1/LCAT activity measurement, transcriptome analysis, and lipid metabolome analysis will be conducted to elucidate the therapeutic mechanism of M-LGYCD and reveal the connotation of spleen deficiency and liver depression, along with turbid yin stagnation syndrome. This study is expected to provide a scientific basis and new therapeutic ideas for the TCM treatment of obese MAFLD.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitutes a complex system involving numerous chemical components that work synergistically to produce therapeutic efficacy. However, the unclear molecular targets of TCM compounds remain a significant challenge for modern research in this field. Cucurbitacin E (CuE) is a tetracyclic triterpenoid compound derived from TCM plants. Previous studies have demonstrated its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and mitigate inflammatory responses. Nevertheless, the specific target of this compound remains undetermined. In this study, we employed a novel bioinformatics tool, the Protein Folding Shape Code (PFSC), to comprehensively investigate the protein target of CuE. The PFSC is designed to characterize protein three-dimensional (3D) folding shapes. Subsequently, we utilized Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) for the functional annotation and pathway analysis of the predicted targets. Moreover, the validity of these predictions was experimentally confirmed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). A search of the PDBeChem database identified four compounds with >80% similarity to CuE. Based on this analysis, CuE was predicted to potentially interact with the protein structures 2VDY and 3TC5. Subsequent screening yielded more than 10 high-scoring protein targets, which were implicated in processes such as inflammation, angiogenesis, and immune regulation. From this pool, eight specific targets (PIN1, PPARG, FGFR1, BRAF, JAK1, JAK3, STAT3, and IL-6) were selected for experimental validation. The results from cellular-level assays indicated that CuE could regulate the gene expression levels of these selected targets. The findings of this study demonstrate that PFSC is a highly effective methodology for analyzing protein 3D structures and is well-suited for identifying the multiple targets of TCM compounds.
To investigate the alterations in various parameter values of the Nehb lead in electrocardiogram (ECG) among patients with hypertension complicated by left atrial enlargement (LAE), and to explore the diagnostic value of the Nehb lead in such patients, aiming to provide a more accurate method for clinical diagnosis. Ninety inpatients and outpatients were included and divided into the hypertension with LAE group (hypertension group) and the healthy control group based on the diagnostic criteria. The morphology, amplitude, duration, and P /P-R ratio of their P-waves were statistically evaluated respectively. Logistic regression analysis was employed to explore the correlation between the aforementioned ECG P-wave parameters and LAE in patients. The amplitude and duration of the P-wave in the D and A leads of the Nehb lead were both significantly higher than those in the traditional II lead ( P <0.05). The detection rate of atrial P-wave changes using the Nehb lead was approximately 93.2%, which was significantly higher than the diagnostic yield of the conventional 12-lead ECG. No significant statistical difference in the P /P-R ratio was observed between groups ( P >0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the difference in P-wave amplitude between the A-II and D-II leads was a relevant factor for LAE ( P <0.05). ROC curve analysis indicated that the AUC values for evaluating LAE were 0.915 for the difference in P-wave amplitude between D-II and A-II leads, 0.769 for Ptf-V1, and 0.563 for the conventional 12-lead ECG. The P-wave changes in the patients with LAE can be better detected using the Nehb lead. The difference in P-wave amplitude between leads is a relevant factor for the disease and demonstrates superior diagnostic efficacy compared to conventional ECG leads and the classic Ptf-V1.
Gastric cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, and its development often follows a well-defined progression. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas, such as Moluodan, have shown potential in preventing the development and progression of gastrointestinal tumors. However, the underlying mechanisms of gastric cancer progression and the specific molecular targets of Moluodan remain unclear. Network medicine, with the ability to analyze complex biological systems, offers a promising approach to address these questions. We constructed paired disease progression modules (PDPMs) by integrating data from various databases to identify relationships among different stages of gastric cancer, including chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), intestinal metaplasia (IM), dysplasia (DYS), and gastric cancer (GC). The K-value was calculated to assess the degree of reconstruction between disease-associated modules. Enrichment analysis was performed to validate the identified PDPMs. Our analysis revealed distinct disease-associated networks and highlighted the complex interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage repair, and apoptosis throughout disease progression. We identified several PDPMs associated with Moluodan, suggesting its potential therapeutic targets. Specifically, the overlap between Moluodan targets and PDPMs in the CAG-IM transition indicates the efficacy of Moluodan in preventing early-stage development of gastric cancer. Furthermore, our results emphasized the critical roles of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lipid metabolism dysregulation in gastric cancer progression. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying gastric cancer progression. By identifying key PDPMs and their associations with Moluodan, we have highlighted the potential of targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and lipid metabolism for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for gastric cancer. Our findings suggest that network medicine can be a powerful tool for understanding complex diseases and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Shengyang Sanhuo Decoction (SYSHD) was first recorded in Clarifying Doubts about Injury from Internal and External Causes ( Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun ) by the Jin–Yuan dynasty physician Li Dongyuan . It integrates therapeutic strategies of dispersing, tonifying, and regulating. Originally designed to treat “Yin fire” syndrome caused by spleen–stomach deficiency and stagnation of Yang Qi, SYSHD is now recognized for its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and metabolic-regulating properties. Clinically, SYSHD is indicated for spleen–stomach deficiency with stagnation of Yang Qi in the middle Jiao, presenting with fatigue, insomnia, dyspnea, anorexia, loose stools, and limb heaviness. Patients may also experience low-grade fever or subjective heat aggravated by exertion. Common comorbid syndromes include liver Qi stagnation (manifesting as depression and anxiety) and dampness retention (manifesting as epigastric fullness, urinary disturbances, or hematuria). Typical diagnostic signs include an enlarged tongue with teeth marks and a greasy coating, accompanied by a soggy-moderate, wiry-slippery, or thready-slippery pulse.
To evaluate the methodological and reporting quality of integrated traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine guidelines addressing dysglycemia and dyslipidemia, thereby offering evidence-based recommendations for optimizing clinical decision-making in these conditions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify clinical practiceguidelines (CPGs) for the management of dysglycemia and dyslipidemia. The search encompassed academic databases and specialized guideline repositories from their inception to December 31, 2024. Three researchers independently assessed the quality of the included CPGs using the AGREE II (Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II) and the RIGHT (Reporting Items for Practice Guidelines in Healthcare) checklist. Based on the AGREE II evaluation, the mean scores across the six domains were as follows: scope and purpose (91.8%), stakeholder involvement (81.7%), rigor of development (66.1%), clarity of presentation (96.0%), applicability (55.4%), and editorial independence (74.1%). Assessment using the RIGHT checklist yielded the following average reporting completeness rates for its seven domains: basic information (83.3%), background (69.3%), evidence (54.2%), recommendations (64.3%), review and quality assurance (39.6%), funding and declaration and management of interests (46.9%), and other aspects (41.7%). This study identified significant deficiencies in existing guidelines, particularly regarding methodological rigor, applicability, transparency of evidence reporting, funding disclosure, and clarification of future research priorities. To better inform clinical practice and improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with dysglycemia and dyslipidemia, future efforts should prioritize developing a dedicated evaluation framework for integrated TCM-Western medicine guidelines, advancing the GRADE-TCM system to improve the translation and grading of TCM evidence, establishing multidisciplinary teams that integrate clinical expertise, evidence-based methodology, and health economics, and integrating cost-effectiveness analyses with patient preference assessments into the recommendation formulation process.
Acupotomy therapy, a minimally invasive technique for soft-tissue release, relies critically on the precise selection and standardized application of instrument specifications. Substantial variability exists in current clinical practice, including differences in tip geometry, instrument length, materials, and multifunctional structural designs. Appropriate selection of instrument specifications is essential not only for enhancing therapeutic efficacy but also for minimizing procedural risks. This review synthesizes recent advances in mechanistic research and clinical applications of acupotomy, with particular emphasis on how optimization of key instrument parameters, such as tip configuration, material innovation, and integrated functional design, affects both efficacy and safety. Furthermore, we discuss emerging directions in acupotomy device development, including refined structural engineering, advanced biomaterials, visualization-assisted procedures, and intelligent modulation technologies. Finally, we highlight the urgent need to establish unified specification frameworks and evidence-based operational standards to promote standardization, reproducibility, and the broader clinical adoption of acupotomy therapy.
This study aims to address the significant inconsistency and conceptual distortion in the current English translation of Tibetan medical terminology—a critical barrier to the accurate international dissemination of this traditional medical system.Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted using Python’s pandas library. Following systematic terminology extraction from the authoritative Tibetan edition of The Four Medical Treatises , 45 high-frequency core terms were selected for in-depth analysis. Translation variants across eight representative English translations, covering domestic and international scholarship from the 19th century to the present, were systematically compared. The results reveal fundamental divergences at three levels: path divergence between phonetic rendering and naturalized equivalence, conceptual flattening characterized by the loss of hierarchical and pathological logic, and category displacement wherein diagnostic concepts are reduced to mere symptoms. In response, this study proposes a paradigm shift from seeking equivalence to preserving distinctiveness and establishes a tiered translation framework comprising four core principles—conceptual equivalence, terminological systematicity, cultural distinctiveness, and concise expression—and six specific methods: transliteration, combined translation, dual translation, free translation, literal translation, and multiple translations. This framework not only provides a systematic solution to terminological inconsistency and conceptual distortion but also offers a theoretical foundation and practical pathway for Chinese scholars to participate in the international standardization of Tibetan medical terminology, thereby facilitating a transition from exporting Tibetan medical knowledge to exporting translation norms.
Tongue and face diagnosis are essential components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) diagnostics, providing valuable insights into visceral functions and pathological information through observation of tongue and facial features. With the advancement of technology, tongue and face diagnosis image acquisition devices have become significant tools for TCM-assisted diagnosis. Based on the Tongue and Face Diagnosis Image Acquisition Device—General Technical Specification T/ZJOS 001—2024 issued by the Optical Society of Zhejiang, this standard provides a systematic introduction to the fundamental requirements, technical specifications, and testing methods for these devices. This standard aims to standardize protocols for tongue and face diagnosis image acquisition devices, improve the objectivity and accuracy of TCM tongue and face diagnosis, and develop evidence-based technical specifications to optimize TCM clinical diagnostics.
