Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a deep historical lineage, sustained by the differentiation of the ‘four properties and five flavors’, a method that has remained intact for centuries. The four properties (cold, heat, warmth and coolness) serve to adjust the excesses of yin and yang; the five flavors (sour, bitter, sweet, pungent and salty) act on the organs and exert therapeutic effects, forming the cornerstone of herbal pharmacology and the framework for TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment. The development of modern TCM, influenced by Western pharmacology, tends to focus on isolating chemical compounds and analyzing the molecular mechanisms of single ingredients, while overlooking the traditional principles of the holistic nature and compound synergy. While this method has proven highly effective in the precise treatment of specific diseases, the lack of a holistic approach makes it hard to demonstrate the synergistic effects of TCM formulas. As a result, the traditional theories of the ‘four properties and five flavors’ are diminishing, and the study and application of the overall pharmacology of TCM face significant challenges. This paper aims to trace the origins of the ‘four properties and five flavors’, discern the differences and similarities between traditional theories and modern science, analyze the current dilemmas in TCM development, and explore a path that combines heritage and innovation to open up a new prospect for the future development of TCM.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome identification is a complex, non-linear thinking process. Analysing the complex relationship between the large volume of complex clinical data and the syndromes, clarifying the diagnostic rules of TCM experts and learning the process of identification can contribute to the inheritance and development of TCM syndrome identification. The traditional way of diagnosis faces the dilemma of neglecting the complexity of syndromes, and it is difficult to unify different diseases with the same syndrome. The arrival of the era of precision medicine and intelligent medicine has brought new ideas and methods to the study of TCM syndrome identification. This paper reviews and elaborates the advantages and related research of machine learning in TCM syndrome identification models. On this basis, this paper further analyzes the existing problems and proposes development strategies, such as the reasonable use of feature engineering to achieve accurate model construction, and the construction of integrated identification models with multimodal objective information sources, in order to provide references for future research on syndrome identification models.

This paper introduces the basic concepts of astronomy and calendar, and expounds on the content of ‘observing phenomena and determining time’ in the yun qi theory. It is believed that the yun qi theory conforms to the basic concepts of the calendar and contains the basic functions of the calendar. The yun qi theory not only contains a basic understanding of the structure of the universe, but also contains a discussion of the laws of the movement of the sun, moon and five planets. The understanding of the year, month, day and time in the yun qi theory is basically consistent with the understanding of the traditional four-quarter calendar. Its uniqueness lies in the observation and prediction of climate, phenology and disease symptoms. Its function is to guide people to be healthy and avoid diseases, which embodies the philosophical view of the correspondence between nature and man in the yun qi theory. It is very likely that the yun qi theory is essentially an ancient astronomical calendar.

Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (AE-IPF) is a major cause of mortality among IPF patients. The theory of ‘disease with latent pathogen induced by a new pathogen’ originates from the Huangdi Neijing, emphasizes that the disease exacerbation occurs when latent pathogenic factors within the body are triggered by new pathogenic influences. Building upon the theory of ‘disease with latent pathogen induced by a new pathogen’, this article explores the pathogenesis and prevention and treatment of AE-IPF. The ‘latent pathogen’ refers to the pre-existing condition of ‘lung deficiency with stasis in the collaterals’ formed during the stable phase of IPF; the ‘new pathogen’ refers to the new pathogenic factors that stir the latent pathogens. Ultimately, the combination of these old and new pathogenic factors creates a pattern of ‘lung heat with stasis in the collaterals’, thereby triggering AE-IPF. In terms of treatment, prior to the onset of the disease, one should ‘strengthen the root and eliminate the cause, whilst carefully avoiding external pathogenic factors’; during the acute exacerbation phase, one should ‘treat the manifestation and eliminate the addition, providing emergency care and preventing deterioration’; and during the recovery phase, one should ‘combine clearing and nourishing, supporting the vital qi and ensuring a favorable outcome’. This provides new insights and a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of AE-IPF.

Based on metaphorical cognition, this paper aims to build a bridge between modern medicine and traditional Chinese medicine theories. As the ‘messenger’ of the five zang-organs, the spleen has the functions of transport, dispersing sperm, rotating the pivot and guarding the body. With the development of gut microbiota-immunity research, the regulatory mechanism of the immune system in the intestinal region is in line with the ‘spleen serving as the messenger’. Therefore, the ‘spleen serving as the messenger’ is taken as the ‘source domain’ and the characteristics of the intestinal regional immunity is the ‘target domain’, and the theoretical connotation of ‘spleen serving as the messenger’ from the perspective of metaphorical cognition, is revealed by analyzing the immune interaction of the gut microbiota, which provides modern scientific evidence for the theory of ‘spleen serving as the messenger’ and provides a basis for the modern interpretation of the spleen and stomach theory of traditional Chinese medicine.

The Wuti theory is an important component of the theoretical system in Huangdi Neijing, yet it has received little elaboration in later medical literature. ‘Wuti’ is the core term of this theory, and clarifying its organizational pattern is crucial for refining the theoretical framework and restoring its significance. Adopting the perspective of prototype theory, this paper explores the cognitive mechanisms underlying the formation of the concept of ‘Wuti’. It concludes that Wuti consists of five prototypical members: skin, muscle, vessel, sinew, and bone. Its conceptual category is organized with the ‘correspondence between nature and human’ as its logical foundation, the ‘Wuxing model’ as its categorical tool, the ‘metaphorical mapping’ as its thinking mode, and the ‘integration of Ti and Yong’ as its prototypical structure, and it exhibits the features of hierarchy and integrity. This organizational pattern suggests that the Wuti theoretical system can be constructed as a three-tiered framework: the Wuti theory of Ti and Yong is the core theoretical tier, the Wuti theory of diagnosis and treatment is the intermediate practical tier, and the pattern-differentiation theory of Ti and Zang is the peripheral connective tier.

Tao is the highest category in ancient Chinese philosophy. The Tao of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) refers to TCM’s understanding of life phenomena and their laws, as well as the ideas and methods for preventing and treating diseases in TCM. The construction of the theory of ‘qi-yang Rudong’ is guided by the holism, the view of constant motion, and the view of nature in TCM. The theory of ‘qi-yang Rudong’ embodies the holistic view of the unity of qi and yang, highlights the view of constant motion of qi and yang with time and space as the axis, and permeates the view of nature that yin governs while yang follows and qi and yang are of great importance. Without the principles of TCM, it would be extremely difficult to understand the theory of ‘qiyang Rudong’.

Traditional Chinese medicine urgently needs innovation to cope with the clinical efficacy bottlenecks brought about by the ‘four changes’ of modern disease spectrum, diagnosis methods, medication methods, and population physical characteristics. Classic famous prescriptions are the key to breaking through the situation. The key is to further use and develop classic famous prescriptions to adapt to the ‘four changes’. TCM master SUN Guangrong proposed four major principles for the application and development of classic famous prescriptions: First, to inherit the essence of famous prescriptions, to be familiar with famous prescriptions, to match prescriptions and syndromes, and to combine internal and external; The second is to not be confined to famous prescriptions, but to use a balanced and flexible cutting method, as well as a combination of three formulas; Thirdly, the medication is safe and effective, with a clear and light spirit, moderate attack and appropriate supplementation; The fourth is the integration of innovative research and development, medical integration, technological integration, and cross-border integration.

Tongue diagnosis serves as a crucial component in disease diagnosis and treatment. Professor TONG Xiaolin has systematically categorized complex chronic diseases into ten fundamental patterns (‘ten states’) from a macroscopic perspective: cold, heat, dryness, dampness, depression, stasis, congestion, consumption, senility, and deficiency. Through extensive clinical practice, he has established corresponding key diagnostic indicators in tongue examination. This approach focuses on three essential elements of tongue diagnosis-tongue body, tongue coating, and sublingual veins-to identify syndromes through tongue observation and assess diseases through syndrome differentiation. It further implements the ‘five inspections’: evaluating ‘sunshine’ sufficiency, ‘fluid’ abundance, ‘air’ circulation, ‘nutritional’ status, and the essence of ‘life processes’. The diagnostic emphasis varies according to different pathological states, culminating in comprehensive evaluation to discern the underlying nature. By analyzing the characteristic tongue manifestations of these ‘ten states of chronic disease’, this methodology bridges the gap between syndrome-targeted treatment and traditional tongue diagnosis. While preserving the essence of traditional Chinese medicine tongue diagnosis, it introduces innovative developments to provide valuable clinical references for accurate tongue assessment and syndrome differentiation.

Objective: To investigate the impact of E2F cell cycle-related transcription factor 1 (E2F1) on the phenotypic transformation of human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HAVSMCs) and to further elucidate the mechanism of Wen Xin Fang in the treatment of atherosclerosis (AS).Methods: Twelve male Wistar rats of SPF grade were prepared with drug containing serum after 7 days of gavage. After 24 hours of intervention with different concentrations of drug containing serum, the cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8 method, the cell migration ability was detected by Transwell method, cell apoptosis and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry, and the protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), osteopontin (OPN), SM22α, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Krüppel like factor 4 (Klf-4), CyclinD1 were detected by Western Blot. HAVSMCs in logarithmic growth phase were selected and divided into blank group, model group, Wen Xin Fang group with preferred concentration, E2F1 overexpression group and E2F1 silencing group. After treatmentfor 24 h, cell proliferation, migration ability, apoptosis and cycle were detected. E2F1 level was detected by qRT-PCR. E2F1, phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (pRb), cyclin D, cell division cycle factor 25 (cdc25), cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor (p21) protein levels were detected by Western Blot.Results: Wen Xin Fang could effectively inhibit the proliferation and migration of HAVSMCs, induce the apoptosis of HAVSMCs, regulate the G₁/S cell cycle transition, reduce the protein expression of PCNA, OPN, klf-4, CyclinD1, and increase the protein expression of SM22α, α-SMA, among which the comprehensive effect of 25% concentration of drug containing serum was the most significant. 25% concentration of drug containing serum can significantly inhibit the proliferation of HAVSMCs cells, reduce the ability of cell migration，induce apoptosis, regulate G₁/S cell cycle transition，inhibit E2F1 gene expression, reduce E2F1, PRB, CyclinD, cdc25 protein expression, and increase p21 protein expression.Conclusion: Wen Xin Fang can inhibit the phenotypic transformation of HAVSMCs, reduce the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells, and treat AS by regulating the expression of E2F1.

Objective: To explore the effects and mechanism of Bushen Tiaojing Formula (BSTJF) in regulating angiogenesis via the hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α)-mediated pathway in the human endometrial stroma.Methods: The optimal concentration of BSTJF rat medicated serum was screened using the CCK-8 method. Human endometrial stromal cells (HESC) were induced to decidualization in vitro using decidualization-inducing agents. Under hypoxic conditions, specific siRNA was used to target and inhibit the transcription of HIF-2α, and BSTJF medicated serum intervention was applied to the induced decidualized HESC. The experiments were divided into five groups: Con group, BSTJF group, Con si group, HIF-2α si group, and HIF-2α si+BSTJF group. Western Blot and RT-qPCR were used to detect the protein and mRNA expression levels of HIF-2α and its downstream molecules RAB27B and VEGFA in HESC. ELISA was used to measure the VEGFA content in the conditioned medium of HESC. The conditioned medium from each group of HESC was collected to stimulate human endometrial microvascular endothelial cells (HEMEC), and tube formation assays were conducted to observe angiogenesis, with measurements of tube length and branch points. Wound healing assays were performed to assess cell migration.Results: Compared with the Con group, the BSTJF group exhibited increased protein and mRNA expression levels of HIF-2α, RAB27B, and VEGFA in HESC (P<0.01, P<0.05), elevated VEGFA content in the conditioned medium (P<0.01), increased tube length of HEMEC at 6 h and 12 h (P<0.05, P<0.01), and enhanced migration rate (P<0.05). Compared with the Con si group, the HIF-2α si group showed decreased protein and mRNA expression levels of HIF-2α, RAB27B, and VEGFA in HESC (P<0.01, P<0.05), reduced VEGFA content in the conditioned medium (P<0.05), decreased tube length and branch points of HEMEC at 6 h and 12 h (P<0.01, P<0.05), and decreased migration rate (P<0.01). Compared with the HIF-2α si group, the HIF-2α si + BSTJF group exhibited increased protein and mRNA expression levels of HIF-2α, RAB27B, and VEGFA in HESC (P<0.01, P<0.05), elevated VEGFA content in the conditioned medium (P<0.05), increased tube length of HEMEC at 6 h and 12 h, increased branch points at 6 h (P<0.01, P<0.05), and enhanced migration rate (P<0.01).Conclusion: BSTJF may promote the migration of HEMEC and angiogenesis by upregulating VEGFA expression and secretion via the HIF-2α/RAB27B/VEGFA pathway in HESC.

Objective: To investigate the effects of purification, roasting with bran, roasting with rice water, and soaking in rice water on the components of Atractylodes lancea ointment.Methods: Four groups of Atractylodes lancea were prepared into ointments. The volatile components of the ointments were analyzed using HS-GC-MS, while the non-volatile components were analyzed using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS.Results: Among the four groups of Atractylodes lancea ointments, including the purified product, bran-fried product, rice water fried product, rice water soaked product, 17 volatile components were detected, with 4 common components. The number of components in each group was 10, 10, 8, and 7, respectively, and the peak area response values followed the order: purified product>rice water soaked product>rice water fried product>bran-fried product; For non-volatile components, 19 were detected, with 17 common components. The number of components in each group was 17, 18, 19, and 18, respectively, and the peak area response values followed the order: rice water fried product>rice water soaked product>bran-fried product>purified product.Conclusion: Different processing methods significantly influence the types and contents of components in Atractylodes lancea ointment. Volatile components are not the main pharmacodynamic constituents, whereas non-volatile components are the primary pharmacodynamic constituents of Atractylodes lancea ointment.

Bile reflux gastritis (BRG) is characterized by a protracted course and frequent recurrence. TCM master XU Jingshi proposes that its core pathogenesis is ‘gallbladder-heat and spleen-cold with impaired pivot mechanism’, with upward rebellion of gallbladder heat being predominant in the early stage and decline of spleen-yang becoming the key pathological factor in chronic cases. The general therapeutic principle is to clear depressed fire from the Shaoyang and warm deficient cold of the Taiyin. Accordingly, the representative formula Xiaohua Funing Decoction is formulated, featuring simultaneous application of cold and warm therapies and harmonization of both ascending and descending movements. In clinical practice, the condition is classified into two patterns: liver-gallbladder stagnant heat and spleen-stomach deficient cold, with flexible modifications based on accompanying manifestations such as phlegm-dampness obstructing the middle jiao, blood stasis obstructing the collaterals, and stomach yin deficiency. The exemplary case demonstrates a diagnostic and therapeutic approach integrating disease, syndrome, and symptoms with dynamic pattern differentiation, offering a novel strategy for TCM management of this disease.

This paper summarizes professor HUA Baojin’s experience in using the ‘five-balance methods’ to prevent and treat malignant tumors throughout the cycle. It is believed that malignant tumors are always due to qi disorder and viscera disorder, and that the cohesion of evil toxins and qi disorder are the prerequisites for the onset of the disease, and that the imbalance of qi, blood and body fluid metabolism is the core pathogenesis of tumor progression, with the flow of cancer and poison and the retention of pathogenic factors as the key link. Based on the theory of ‘regulating qi and detoxification’, the clinical syndrome advocates the use of the five-balance methods of regulating up and down, guarding viscera, weighing evil and righteousness, rebalancing yin and yang, balancing form and spirit, adhering to the systematic diagnosis and treatment concept of focusing on prevention and combining prevention and treatment, attaching importance to the key position of positive qi in the steady-state regulation of human body, flexibly adjusting the proportion of righting and detoxification drugs according to different stages of tumors, and expanding the connotation and expanding the concept of balance treatment, reconstruct the cognitive concept of diagnosis and treatment at different stages of cancer, and give full play to the value advantages of traditional Chinese medicine.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays a significant role in treating glioma, alleviating symptoms, reducing and alleviating adverse reactions of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and delaying the recurrence time of tumors. However, TCM treatment for glioma lacks a standardized syndrome differentiation system. Professor FAN Yongping proposed the theory of ‘sequential differentiation treatment’ for glioma, innovatively summarizing the postoperative treatment of glioma as ‘three stages and ten syndromes’. This theory provides new ideas and therapeutic approaches for TCM treatment of glioma.

The clinical experience of Qihuang Scholar professor PENG Qinghua is summarized in the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) from the the mutual causes of deficiency and excess. Professor PENG believes that the traditional Chinese medicine pathogenesis of RP belongs to deficiency in root and excess in branch, the deficiency is mainly caused by the deficiency of the kidney, liver and spleen, and the excess is mainly blood stasis and blockade of the meridians and collaterals. Mutual cause and promotion between deficiency and excess leads to the disease. Subtle substances such as essence, qi and blood are difficult to reach the eye system, and the eye network is not nourished, resulting in RP. And according to the characteristics of the disease, the general principles of treatment of replenishing the deficiency and eliminating the excess, and the treatment of deficiency and excess. ‘Tonify the kidney and replenish essence, invigorate yang and assist yin’ ‘tonify the liver and spleen, qi and blood are nourished’ ‘dispel stasis and stagnation, and reach the eyes’, emphasizing flexibility and flexibility when dispensing medication, taking into account the deficiency and excess.

The Sanjiao is membranous channels that connects the upper and lower parts of the body, communicating internally with the organs and externally with the skin, muscles, bones, and joints. It facilitates the communication of the five zang organs and six fu organs, completing the functions of qi movement and transformation, promoting the circulation and distribution of body fluids, and generation of defensive and essential substances. The pathogenesis of interstitial lung disease related to connective tissue disease involves dysfunction of the sanjiao, deficiency of the organs, and pathological products of phlegm and blood stasis obstructing the pulmonary micro-membrane through the Sanjiao’s membranous system. Pathogenic factors accumulate in the skin, muscles bones, and joints for a long time, leading to phlegm-dampness and blood stasis, which travel through the Sanjiao’s membranous channels to the pulmonary micro-membrane, resulting in pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. The membranous pathways of the Sanjiao serve as a conduit for the flow of phlegm and blood stasis to the lungs and also as a site for the generation of pathological products like turbid phlegm and blood stasis. Clinical treatment adopts the principles of ‘dredging, transforming, and regulating’, aiming to smooth the Sanjiao, restore its qi transformation, regulate the qi and blood of the organs, and restore the function of the Sanjiao’s membranous channels, eliminating the phlegm-dampness and blood stasis that obstruct the lung’s micro-membrane.

The academic thought of ‘preventing disease’ is a very important theory of preventive medicine in the process of medical development. Both ancient and modern doctors attach great importance to the thought of ‘preventing disease’, especially the discussion of this thought in the Synopsis of the Golden Chamber written by ZHANG Zhongjing, a physician of the Eastern Han dynasty. The so-called ‘preventing disease’ includes ‘prevention of disease before disease, prevention of disease, and prevention of disease after illness’. The thought is also particularly important for the prevention and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), CAP is categorized as ‘wind-warm lung-heat disease’ in traditional Chinese medicine, characterized by acute onset, rapid disease progression and frequent recurrence. Based on the theory of ‘preventing diseases’ in Synopsis of the Golden Chamber, this paper conducts treatment in three stages, with strengthening the spleen and reinforcing earth to generate metal running through the whole process. It provides an important theoretical guidance for the full-cycle prevention and treatment of CAP.

Adult onset still disease is a common clinical rheumatic immune disease with recurrent and prolonged exacerbations, which seriously affects the quality of survival and long-term prognosis of patients. The law of the development and evolution of this disease is ‘Xuanfu closed, ascending and descending paradox, qi astringency and blood turbidity, accumulation of brewing poison, external erosion of limb collaterals, internal damage to viscera’. The core pathogenesis is ‘Xuanfu closed, toxic damage to collaterals’. In clinical practice, the treatment principles of ‘relieving depression and opening Xuantong collaterals, restoring qi movement and ascending and descending’ ‘clearing heat and dredging Xuantong collaterals, giving poison a way out’ ‘nourishing Zang and Rongxuan and collaterals, causing deficiency and loss to recover’ are adopted, and the disease is repeatedly caused.

‘Releasing the stagnated fire’ means that the treatment of fire stagnation syndrome should follow the principle of promoting the smooth flow of qi and dispelling fire. Shengjiang Powder is composed of four medicines. The compatibility is refined and appropriate. It has the function of ascending lucidity and descending turbidity, regulating and soothing qi-movement, treating both qi and blood, and diffusing and unblocking the triple burner. It is widely used in the ‘stagnated fire’ syndrome of external and internal diseases. During the clinical treatment, the doctors should closely focus on the key pathogenesis of ‘stagnated heat’. Then the stagnation heat is removed, the qi-movement is smooth, and the disease heals. This paper summarizes the clinical experience of professor SHI Weiqun in the treatment of internal medicine miscellaneous diseases with Shengjiang Powder by sharing 3 cases of vertigo, headache and insomnia, in order to share with colleagues.

The SONGs’ ancestral gynecology, originating from the Tang dynasties, stands as one of Zhejiang’s four principal gynecological traditions. SONG Shihua, the 38th generation, inherits the family study, inherits the academic thought of SONGs’ ancestral gynecology. This article summarizes the academic thought origin and clinical experience of the treatment of tubal infertility. The therapeutic paradigm emphasizes: Pattern differentiation-based treatment classification; application of light and flexible herbal formulations; using mild traditional Chinese medicine to gradually unblock the obstructed qi flow through its lasting effect; treating infertility with traditional Chinese medicine menstrual cycle therapy; reverencing the concept of ‘unity of heaven and man’; ‘abidance by individuality, locality and seasons’; prevention and treatment threatened abortion. These time-honored academic thought and clinical experience offer valuable insights for contemporary management of tubal infertility reproductive disorders.

Although traditional Chinese massage therapy is widely used, safe and effective, its efficacy in achieving ‘simultaneous mind-body regulation’ is often limited in clinical practice due to insufficient attention to patients’ psychological states. Building upon the traditional Chinese medicine theory that ‘tendons favor gentleness and resist rigidity’ and modern psychosomatic medicine principles, we propose the ‘softening tendons and easing emotions’ massage method. This approach organically integrates gentle tendon-regulating techniques with emotional-soothing care: systematically incorporating narrative medicine and psychological counseling (listening, empathizing, guiding) into the technical workflow to enable synchronous mind-body intervention. The research elucidates its ‘gentleness-oriented’ technical features and the ‘mind-body interaction’ mechanism while demonstrating clinical value through medically unexplained symptoms case studies. Results show significant improvement in patients’ physical symptoms and psychological states, providing novel insights for the innovative development of traditional Chinese medicine massage and the treatment of psychosomatic disorders.

The Chong meridian belongs to the eight extraordinary meridians and is known as the ‘sea of the twelve meridians’ and the ‘sea of blood’. Disorders of the Chong meridian often manifest as upward rushing of qi and abdominal cramping pain, whereas their clinical identification is complicated. Drawing on his profound family heritage in pulse diagnosis, professor LI Shusen proposed the ‘inward pulse shift’ theory, suggesting that the inward shift of the midline at the six pulse positions on both wrists serves as a characteristic pulse sign of Chong meridian diseases, thereby simplifying the diagnosis of these diseases. Subsequently, professor YANG Zhimin applied this pulse method flexibly in clinical practice and achieved remarkable therapeutic effects. This article aims to explore the clinical application of the ‘inward shift of the pulse midline’ theory in the diagnosis and treatment of Chong meridian diseases within the Mr Changsang pulse method, with a view to providing new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of Chong meridian diseases.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) clinical thinking runs through the entire diagnostic-therapeutic process and represents an implicit cognitive process through which physicians translate between perceptual experience and rational understanding, as well as between theory and practice. In response to existing problems in current research-such as rigid paradigms, fragmented frameworks, and diagnostic-therapeutic bias-this study examines the concept, structure, and process of TCM clinical thinking, and systematically delineates five thinking types: Xiang thinking, logical thinking, experiential thinking, intuitive thinking, and inspirational thinking, thereby constructing a pluralistic integrative framework. On this basis, this article further elucidates the operating mechanisms of diagnostic thinking, therapeutic-strategy thinking, and prescription-and-medication thinking. By classifying the thinking involved in flexible formula application, this article develops a four-dimensional prescription reasoning strategy characterized as ‘specialized, category-based, combinational, and innovative’. In addition, this article proposes a ‘recognizing and correcting errors’ thinking pathway to enhance the closed-loop integrity and safety of the TCM thinking system. Overall, this work aims to establish a TCM clinical thinking model with both theoretical depth and practical guidance, providing a pathway for more precise diagnosis and treatment and a paradigm for TCM education, and ultimately promoting the modern transformation and sustainable development of TCM.

Based on the theory of ‘yang transforming qi and yin forming shape’, this study explores the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of depression. It proposes that the core pathogenesis of depression lies in ‘insufficient yang transformation into qi with excessive yin formation of shape’, with deficiency of yang in the heart, liver, spleen, and kidney as the initiating factor, phlegm-dampness and blood stasis as the major pathological products, and qi stagnation as the central link throughout the disease course. Accordingly, a therapeutic framework emphasizing warming yang, eliminating yin, and regulating qi is established, aiming to provide new insights for the clinical differentiation and treatment of depression.

Childhood immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an acquired, immune hemorrhagic disease, belonging to the categories of ‘muscle bleeding’ and ‘blood syndrome’ in traditional Chinese medicine. The spleen, pulse, kidney and bone are all involved in the occurrence and development of this disease. Therefore, starting from the integrated view of ‘spleen-pulse-kidney-bone’, this article divides the pathogenesis of childhood ITP into three stages: ‘spleen losing its defense, meridian being affected by evil’, ‘heat toxin obstructing collaterals, kidney losing nourishment’, ‘kidney not filling bone, marrow injury and blood deficiency’, and proposes three corresponding treatment principles and methods: ‘regulating the middle and strengthening the body, dispelling evil and stabilizing collaterals’, ‘detoxifying and activating collaterals, nourishing blood and nourishing kidneys’, and ‘tonifying kidney and nourishing essence, strengthening bone and generating marrow’, in order to provide new treatment ideas for this disease in clinical practice.

Pregnancy pulse is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pulse diagnosis, which has received much attention from ancient times to the present. Regarding the characteristics of pregnancy pulse, there are various opinions in ancient books and contemporary works, mainly including the belief that smooth pulse is the main cause of pregnancy, yin pulsation distinct from yang, the pulse of hand Shaoyin meridian is strong, yin pulse is small and weak, and there is no abnormal pulse when the body is sick. It is generally believed that the main pulse during pregnancy is the smooth pulse, but the characteristics of the smooth pulse also vary depending on the pregnant woman’s constitution, gestational age, and fetal gender. It is often accompanied by a complex pulse, and some pregnant women may not have smooth pulse due to weak constitution or pathological factors. Therefore, it points out that further research on pregnancy pulse can be carried out by integrating information from other four diagnostic methods, modern technologies such as clinical big data, pulse diagnosis instruments, so that characteristics of pregnancy pulse in pulse position, pulse number, pulse shape, pulse potential will be clarified, then the pulse diagnosis system of TCM can be enriched.

Baduanjin has been widely applied in national fitness promotion and chronic disease management. Nevertheless, its standardized inheritance and popularization are hindered by prominent drawbacks in practical promotion, including insufficient support from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theories and non-standardized technical specifications. Under the guidance of the China Association of Chinese Medicine and Chinese Health Qigong Association, Wangjing Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences took the lead in formulating the standard, in collaboration with authoritative institutions such as the Health Qigong Management Center of General Administration of Sport of China and Beijing Sport University. Guided by basic TCM theories and based on the officially promoted version of Baduanjin issued by the General Administration of Sport of China, this study sorts out the TCM theoretical connotation of Baduanjin, specifies its movement criteria, technical essentials, practice specifications and applicable scenarios. The formulated standard provides technical support for the standardized promotion and scientific application of Baduanjin, facilitates the in-depth integration of national fitness and national health, improves residents’ health literacy, and contributes to the implementation of the Healthy China Initiative.

Toxic pathogen syndrome of heart failure (HF) is a newly proposed innovative pathogenesis of HF. However, the connotation of the toxic pathogen syndrome of HF is not yet fully clear, and there is a lack of recognized diagnostic criteria. Following the standard development procedures of the China Association of Chinese Medicine, and employing methods such as literature review, expert interviews, and questionnaire surveys, this project adopts a diagnostic model that combines primary criteria (main symptoms), secondary criteria (subsidiary symptoms), and tongue manifestations or pulse findings to establish the Experts consensus on diagnosis of toxic pathogen syndrome of heart failure, aiming to provide guidance for the traditional Chinese medicine pattern differentiation and scientific research of HF.

According to the ideas, methods and key technologies of the establishment of syndrome diagnostic criteria proposed by the team, the research on the diagnostic criteria of TCM syndrome of cough variant asthma was carried out: first, based on the research results of 621 literature records and the opinions of 28 experts, the common syndromes and symptom characteristics were preliminarily screened and a clinical questionnaire was formulated. Second, based on the data of 830 patients in 10 hospitals across the country, combined with the opinions of 27 experts, together with multivariate statistical analysis and data mining technology, the common syndromes and main and secondary symptoms were clarified. Third, the association rules and Bayesian networks were jointly used to determine the diagnostic conditions of syndromes, and diagnostic standards for TCM syndromes were preliminarily established. Fourth, based on the data of 488 patients, the established diagnostic criteria for syndrome were verified, and finally the Diagnostic criteria for traditional Chinese medicine syndrome of cough variant asthma was established to provide a basis for clinical syndrome differentiation.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by irreversible degeneration of motor neurons, clinically manifesting as progressive muscle weakness that culminates in respiratory failure and dysphagia. Despite its devastating prognosis, the pathogenic mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated, and effective therapeutic interventions are critically lacking. ALS progression is closely associated with dysregulation of a multifaceted ‘neuro-immune-endocrine-metabolic’ network mediated by the ‘brain-gut axis’. Early-stage ALS patients exhibit gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal barrier dysfunction, which establish bidirectional pathological crosstalk with central neurodegenerative processes, collectively exacerbating motor neuron injury. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), grounded in the holistic principle of ‘brain-gut co-regulation’, has demonstrated unique therapeutic potential through multi-target interventions such as acupuncture, Chinese herbs and Tuina. However, the therapeutic mechanisms underpinning TCM remain insufficiently under-researched. Therefore, this review examines the pathological correlations between gut microbiota imbalance and ALS onset, delineates microbiota-mediated regulatory pathways in disease progression, and summarizes recent advances in TCM-based brain-gut axis modulation strategies, with a view to providing new perspectives on the treatment of ALS.

Spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia (SPEM) represents a crucial precursor lesion of gastric cancer. This review summarizes its pathogenesis, experimental models, and advances in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy. Atrophy of the oxyntic glands and chronic inflammation triggered by Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection are prerequisites for SPEM development. The origin of SPEM involves two primary hypotheses: transdifferentiation of chief cells and differentiation of stem cells; however, its role in gastric mucosal repair and its relationship with intestinal metaplasia require further clarification. Experimental models for studying SPEM encompass chronic models induced by Hp infection, acute models induced by pharmacological agents, gene and transcriptional manipulation models, each with distinct advantages and limitations. The integrated use of multiple models is an emerging trend. Regarding TCM interventions, formulae such as Zuojin Pills and Yiwei Xiaoyu Granules, as well as single herbs like Astragali Radix and Spreading Hedyotis Herb, have preliminarily demonstrated therapeutic potential, yet require deeper investigation. This review highlights the current limitations of SPEM research and provides insights for future research directions.

Shear wave elastography (SWE), a novel non-invasive imaging modality renowned for its quantitative assessment of tissue elasticity, has emerged as a valuable tool in the investigation of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) external therapies, including acupuncture and tuina. This review article systematically examines the clinical and foundational research progress of SWE in the context of acupuncture, tuina, and other TCM external therapies. Despite the potential of SWE to offer an objective assessment framework for TCM external therapies, its application is constrained by several limitations and challenges. It is imperative for future studies to expand sample sizes, refine study designs, and enhance operational protocols to facilitate the deeper integration of SWE technology into TCM external therapy practices.

The timing of acupuncture is one of the key elements of an acupuncture treatment plan and is closely associated with its therapeutic efficacy. At present, the selection of acupuncture timing in clinical practice is largely arbitrary and blind, which hinders the improvement of clinical efficacy, the standardization of acupuncture prescriptions, and the advancement of quantitative acupuncture research. In the context of precision medicine, the standardization of acupuncture timing has become an urgent necessity. The authors have reviewed recent relevant research and determined that different diseases require different optimal acupuncture timings. Appropriate acupuncture timing can enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture and improve clinical efficacy, and the determination of optimal timing should be based on the law of acupuncture timing action. Future research should further investigate the biological rhythms of various human functions, identify their peak and trough periods, explore patterns of optimal acupuncture timing for different diseases, and determine the most effective timing, thereby improving clinical efficacy and promoting the standardization of acupuncture prescriptions.

Objective: To investigate the effects of Optimized New Shengmai Powder (ONSP) on the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway in rats with pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy.Methods: The rat model of pressure overload cardiac hypertrophy was established by abdominal aortic constriction (AAC). Successfully modeled rats were divided into the Model, ONSP-L, ONSP-M, ONSP-H, and Benazepril groups, along with a Sham group in which only the abdominal aorta was exposed without constriction, 6 in each group. After 28 days of intragastric administration, ultrasound was used to measure the thickness of the interventricular septum (IVS) and left ventricular posterior wall (LVPW) in each group. The ratio of whole heart weight (HW) to body weight (BW) was also calculated. WGA staining was employed to examine pathological changes in the heart and the cross-sectional area of cardiomyocytes. Masson staining was used to evaluate the degree of myocardial fibrosis. qRT-PCR was performed to quantify mRNA levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), α-myosin heavy chain (α-MHC) and β-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC) in myocardial tissue. ELISA was used to determine the expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Western blot analysis was applied to measure the protein expression levels of Keap1, Nrf2, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in cardiac tissue.Results: Compared with the model group, the ONSP and Benazepril groups exhibited significantly lower values of LVPWs, LVPWd, IVSs, IVSd, and HW/BW (P<0.01). Myocardial pathological structure, cell morphology and size, fiber organization, cross-sectional area of cardiomyocytes, interstitial collagen deposition, and collagen volume fraction were all significantly attenuated (P<0.01). The expression levels of ANP, BNP, α-MHC, β-MHC, CTGF, TGF-β mRNA were significantly reduced (P<0.01). Keap1 protein expression decreased significantly (P<0.01), whereas the protein levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 increased significantly (P<0.01). The content of SOD and CAT increased significantly (P<0.05, P<0.01).Conclusion: ONSP can improve cardiac structure and function, reduce the collagen volume fraction, and effectively inhibit myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis. The mechanism may involve regulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Objective: To investigate the effects of Shen Fu Huang Decoction on alleviating intestinal injury in septic mice by regulating autophagy, and to identify its active components and core targets.Methods: A mouse sepsis model was established by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and divided into sham, model, and Shen Fu Huang Decoction groups. Intestinal injury and autophagy-related protein expression were assessed via histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and Western Blot. Active components and targets were screened using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, network pharmacology, and molecular docking, with qRT-PCR for gene validation.Results: Compared with the model group, Shen Fu Huang Decoction significantly alleviated intestinal tissue damage (P<0.01), increased autophagy markers in the intestinal mucosa LC3Ⅱ-positive expression (P<0.05), and upregulated the LC3Ⅱ/LC3Ⅰ ratio and Beclin1 protein (P<0.05). Eleven potential active components were identified, and eight core autophagy-related targets (e.g., MTOR, TLR4) were screened, enriched in pathways like inflammatory response and cell death regulation. Molecular docking indicated strong binding affinity of rhein and aloe-emodin to core targets. qRT-PCR confirmed that Shen Fu Huang Decoction significantly upregulated ATG5 and BECN1 (P<0.001) and downregulated SQSTM1 (P<0.001).Conclusion: Shen Fu Huang Decoction may reduce sepsis-induced intestinal injury by promoting autophagy, with rhein and aloe-emodin as key active components. The identified targets and pathways provide a scientific basis for further mechanistic studies.

Objective: To explore the optic neuroprotective effects of Qingguang’an (QGA) Ⅱ on mice model of chronic high intraocular pressure (IOP) as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods: SPF-grade DBA/2J mice with abnormally elevated IOP starting at 30 weeks of age and sustained until 38 weeks of age were considered as chronic ocular hypertension model. A total of 39 female DBA/2J mice with chronic high IOP were randomly divided into three groups: the model group, the QGA Ⅱ group, and the positive group, with 13 mice in each group. Meanwhile, C57BL/6J mice were assigned as the control group. Starting at 38 weeks of age, the mice in QGA Ⅱ group were administered 9.67 g·kg^-1·d^-1 QGA Ⅱ by gavage, while the mice in positive group were given 0.31 g·kg^-1·d^-1 Yimaikang Dispersible Tablets by gavage, while the model group and control group received an equal volume of distilled water by gavage once daily for 28 consecutive days. Two hours after the end of gavage, the eyeballs and retinal tissues of the mice were collected. HE staining was used to observe the morphology of the retina, and transmission electron microscope was employed to examine the ultrastructure of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The protein expression level of Caspase3 was detected by Western blot. Furthermore, transcriptomic sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed genes among groups. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses were subsequently conducted on the identified differentially expressed genes in the neuroprotective effects of QGA Ⅱ. Finally, the expression of selected differentially expressed genes were measured by qPCR.Results: The model group showed partial rupture of optic nerve fiber and a pronounced loss of RGCs compared with control group (P<0.01). Both the QGA Ⅱ and positive groups mitigated this damage, preserving significantly more RGCs than model group (P<0.01, P<0.05). The electron micrograph revealed that the nuclear morphology of RGCs varied markedly across groups. RGCs in the blank group showed uniform cytoplasm, regular morphology, intact organelles, and distinct nuclear membranes, while model group exhibited pyknotic nuclei, blurred nuclear envelopes, and organelle disarray. In QGA Ⅱ group, the overall cellular morphology was slightly irregular, with focal nuclear deformation and slight organelle disorganization. Positive group cells displayed irregular morphology, largely deformed nuclear membranes, and disorganized organelles. The relative protein expression of Caspase3 was significantly elevated in model group relative to blank group (P<0.01). Both QGA Ⅱ and positive group demonstrated a significant downregulation of Caspase3 protein expression compared with model group (P<0.01, P<0.05). Transcriptomic analysis identified 64 differentially expressed genes that were shared across groups and associated with glaucoma. Enrichment analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in the Wnt signaling pathway, including Sfrp1, Ror2, Rspo1, Wnt7A, and Wnt7B (P<0.05). qPCR analysis revealed that QGA Ⅱ significantly downregulated the expression of Sfrp1 mRNA (P<0.01) and increased the expression of Ror2, Rspo1, Wnt7A, and Wnt7B mRNA (P<0.01) in the retina relative to the model group.Conclusion: QGA Ⅱ attenuated retinal apoptosis and conferred neuroprotection on RGCs in mice with chronic ocular hypertension. The potentially mechanism was related to modulating the expression of Sfrp1, Ror2, Rspo1, Wnt7A, and Wnt7B in the Wnt signaling pathway.

Objective: To explore the mechanism of the effect of ‘kidney-brain-harmony’ electroacupuncture therapy on perimenopausal depression disorder (PDD) model rats.Methods: Fourteen-month-old rats entering the perimenopausal stage were randomly divided into a blank group, a model group, a Western medicine group, and an electroacupuncture group, with 8 rats in each group. A PDD model was established using chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) with continuous stimulation for 21 days. The electroacupuncture group received electroacupuncture intervention at Baihui (GV20), bilateral Shenshu (BL23), and Taixi (KI3). The pharmaceutical group received oral administration of fluoxetine hydrochloride (1.8 mg/kg) once daily for 28 days. Behavioral changes were assessed by the open field test (OFT), sugar-water preference test (SPT), and forced swimming test (FST) after modeling and intervention, respectively; HE staining was performed to observe the morphology of hippocampal neurons; transmission electron microscopy was performed to observe the ultrastructure of hippocampal synapses; ELISA method was used to detect the content of hippocampal 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and dopamine (DA); colorimetric method was used to detect the content of hippocampal Glu; Western Blot method was used to detect hippocampal GFAP, postsynaptic dense protein 95 (PSD95) and synaptophysin (SYN) protein expression; and immunofluorescence staining to observe hippocampal SYN protein expression.Results: Compared with the model group, rats in the electroacupuncture group showed increased horizontal travel distance, average horizontal speed, time spent in the center, and number of vertical standing episodes in the OFT (P<0.05, P<0.01); increased preference for the sugar solution in the SPT (P<0.05); and reduced immobility time in the FST (P<0.01); ELISA results showed increased levels of 5-HT and DA in the hippocampus (P<0.01); colorimetric assay results showed decreased Glu levels in the hippocampus (P<0.05); and protein expression levels of GFAP, PSD95 and SYN all increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Histopathological results showed that, compared with the model group, the electroacupuncture group showed improved damage to hippocampal neuronal tissue, more intact synaptic structures, and an increased number of synaptic vesicles that were more densely packed.Conclusion: Electroacupuncture therapy of ‘kidney-brain-harmony’ can improve depressive-like behaviors in PDD rats and exert antidepressant effects. Its mechanism may be related to improving As dysfunction, increasing Glu uptake, reducing its abnormal accumulation in the synaptic cleft, and enhancing synaptic plasticity.

Objective: To investigate the mechanism by which Jianpi Huayu Jiedu Formula (JPHYJD) improves gastric precancerous lesions (GPL) via suppression of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Methods: Sixty mice were randomly divided into blank, model, low-dose JPHYJD, high-dose JPHYJD, and vitacoenzyme groups, 12 in each group. Gastric mucosal pathological changes were assessed by HE and AB-PAS staining. Neutrophil-related cytokines were quantified by qPCR. GPL and NETs markers were examined by immunohistochemistry. The expression and localization of neutrophils and NETs were visualized by immunofluorescence. NETs levels were measured by ELISA. Results: Compared with the blank group, the model group exhibited gastric mucosal dysplasia and leukocyte infiltration. Gene expression of interleukin(IL)-6, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), CCL3, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1), CXCL2, and C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2), as well as protein expression of cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4), were significantly elevated in the gastric mucosa (P<0.01, P<0.05). Neutrophils and NETs infiltrated the base of the gastric mucosa with markedly upregulated expression (P<0.01). Following high-dose JPHYJD treatment, these parameters were significantly reduced (P<0.05), and the positive areas of neutrophils and NETs in the gastric mucosa were decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05). Conclusion: Neutrophils recruited to the gastric mucosa by inflammatory cytokines and chemokines promote GPL progression through NETs release. JPHYJD improves GPL by inhibiting NETs formation.

Objective: To investigate the mechanism by Huangkui Lianchang Effervescent Suppository repairs colonic barrier injury in ulcerative colitis (UC) rats via the SPHK1/S1P signaling pathway.Methods: The UC model was established using TNBS. Rats were divided into normal group, model group, blank matrix group, Mesalazine Suppository group, high-dose, medium-dose, and low-dose Huangkui Lianchang Effervescent Suppository groups, and Huangkui Lianchang enema group. After 14 days of intervention, disease activity index (DAI), colon length, and pathological changes were evaluated; serum levels of inflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10] were measured; immunohistochemistry was used to detect Occludin, ZO-1, and Ki67 protein expression; Western Blot was used to detect SPHK1, S1P and TRAF2 protein expression.Results: Compared with the model group, the high-dose Huangkui Lianchang Effervescent Suppository group and the Huangkui Lianchang enema group showed significantly decreased white blood cell (WBC) and platelet (PLT) counts (P<0.01, P<0.05), and significantly increased red blood cell (RBC) and hemoglobin (HGB) levels (P<0.01, P<0.05), colon length was significantly increased (P<0.01), and histopathological scores were significantly reduced (P<0.01) in the high-, medium-, and low-dose suppository groups as well as the enema group, the DAI values were significantly decreased in the high- and medium-dose suppository groups and the enema group (P<0.01, P<0.05), the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were significantly reduced (P<0.01), and the protein levels of SPHK1, TRAF2, and S1P were significantly downregulated (P<0.01) in these groups, the high-dose suppository group and the enema group showed significantly decreased Ki67 protein level (P<0.01) and significantly increased Occludin and ZO-1 protein expression (P<0.01). The low-dose suppository group exhibited significantly reduced S1P protein level (P<0.01).Conclusion: Huangkui Lianchang Effervescent Suppository may alleviate inflammation and promote intestinal mucosal barrier repair by inhibiting activation of the SPHK1/S1P signaling pathway, thereby improving UC symptoms.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between flavonoids and all-cause mortality in the general population.Methods: Statistical analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in the United States for the years 2007-2010 and 2017-2018, focusing on population information and intake levels of flavonoid compounds. The study employed weighted Cox proportional hazards regression models, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and subgroup analysis.Results: After adjusting for variables, luteolin (HR=0.90, 95%CI[0.84, 0.97]), isorhamnetin (HR=0.94, 95%CI[0.90, 0.99]), and total flavonoids (HR=0.92, 95%CI[0.87, 0.97]) were independent protective factors for all-cause mortality in the general population (P<0.05). When luteolin intake exceeded 0.25 mg, isorhamnetin intake exceeded 0.33 mg, and total flavonoids intake exceeded 0.37 mg, mortality rate was significantly reduced (P<0.01), with men being the primary beneficiary group (P<0.05).Conclusion: Luteolin, isorhamnetin, and total flavonoids are independent protective factors for all-cause mortality in the general population, with men being the primary beneficiaries.

Objective: To investigate the correlation between recurrence of anterior uveitis and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation types, and to provide a basis for preventing and treating anterior uveitis recurrence.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 280 patients with anterior uveitis admitted to the Department of Ophthalmology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, from January 1, 2022, to June 30, 2024. Clinical data, including general information, TCM syndrome types, and recurrence status, were analyzed. Recurrence rates among different TCM syndrome types were compared.Results: Among the 280 enrolled patients, the male-to-female ratio was 0.78:1, and the ratio of unilateral to bilateral involvement was 0.83:1. During the remission phase, the distribution of TCM syndrome types showed that the liver channel stagnant heat pattern accounted for the highest proportion (34.29%, 96/280) (P<0.05). Regarding recurrence rates among different TCM syndrome types, the yin deficiency with effulgent fire pattern had the highest recurrence rate (39.02%, 32/82) (P<0.05). Subgroup analysis of patients with HLA-B27-associated anterior uveitis also showed that the recurrence rate of the yin deficiency and fire excess pattern was significantly higher than that of other patterns (P<0.05).Conclusion: Anterior uveitis recurrence is closely related to TCM syndrome types, with yin deficiency and fire excess being the core pathogenesis of high recurrence risk. This study provides a theoretical basis and practical direction for TCM syndrome-based intervention in anterior uveitis recurrence.

Chan Jing is a gynecological and obstetric monograph written by DE Zhenchang. The original book has been lost, but some of its content is included in Yixin Fang. By systematically sorting out the pediatric prescriptions quoted from Chan Jing in Yixin Fang, it is found that the prescriptions are mainly small ones, the dosage forms are mostly powders, the treatment methods combine internal and external treatments with a focus on external treatment, the sources of medicinal materials are extensive, and fresh medicinal materials and food-medicine homologous products are emphasized. The dosage is light and gentle to protect the spleen and stomach. This paper explores DE Zhenchang’s insights in Chan Jing on the prescription and medication in traditional Chinese pediatrics, with the aim of providing ideas and references for the prescription and medication in modern traditional Chinese pediatrics.

The Mawangdui Han Tombs served as the family burial site of LI Cang, the Marquis of Dai and Chancellor of the Changsha Kingdom during the early Western Han dynasty. Since the excavation of Tomb No.3 in 1973, a total of 16 types of medical texts written on silk and bamboo slips have been unearthed. Compared with other princely tombs of the Western Han dynasty and burial sites from different historical periods, the quantity and quality of medical literature possessed by the Chancellor’s family in the Mawangdui Han Tombs are particularly remarkable. This paper aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of the reasons for the emergence of numerous medical texts in the Mawangdui Han Tombs, proposing that ‘life-death continuity’ is the key concept for understanding this phenomenon. Specifically, this study employs cultural and intellectual landscape analysis methods, constructing a comprehensive life-sustaining system of ‘pre-mortem practice and post-mortem continuation’, to examine in detail the popular practices of ingesting elixirs and sexual cultivation techniques in the Han dynasty, as well as the burial customs and the phenomenon of seeking external objects for self-preservation. The research suggests that medical knowledge itself was endowed with sacred power to extend life. The findings indicate that the Mawangdui medical texts not only represent an integration of medical knowledge in Han society but also present a vivid portrayal of how people in the Han dynasty confronted life and death while pursuing health and immortality.

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of ‘stimulating Taiyang-meridian and resolving dampness’ needling technique in treating migraine without aura (MowA). Methods: A total of 102 patients with MwoA were randomly divided into the western medicine control group, traditional acupuncture group, and special acupuncture group. The special acupuncture group [included Cuanzhu (BL2) acupoint, Tianzhu (BL10) acupoint, temporal muscle trigger points, cervical 2-3 spinous process point, ear vagus nerve stimulation points]; the acupuncture points for the traditional acupuncture group were Fengchi (GB20), Shuaigu (GB8), Jiaosun (TE20), Zhongzhu (TE3), and Taichong (LR3). The acupuncture intervention period was 4 weeks, with 3 sessions per week for a total of 12 sessions. The western medicine control group took Flunarizine Hydrochloride Capsules, 1 pill per time, 1 time per day, for 28 d. The visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, frequency of pain attacks, duration of pain, time to pain disappearance or degree of relief after treatment, most disturbing accompanying symptoms, the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS), and the headache index scores, as well as the levels of serum-related factors [inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6); pain perception and sensitization-related factors (histamine, 5-HT, CGRP, SP)] were compared before and after treatment in three groups of patients, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated. Results: After treatment, the VAS, frequency of pain attacks, duration of pain, accompanying symptoms, MIDAS, headache index scores, and the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, histamine, CGRP, and SP in the three groups of patients were all lower than those before treatment significantly (P<0.05), and those in the special acupuncture group were lower than those in the traditional acupuncture group and the western medicine control group significantly (P<0.05); the serum 5-HT levels in the three groups of patients were higher than those before treatment significantly (P<0.05), and those in the special acupuncture group were higher than those in the traditional acupuncture group and the western medicine control group significantly (P<0.05).Conclusion: ‘Stimulating Taiyang-meridian and resolving dampness’ needling technique can alleviate the pain symptoms of patients with MowA, which may be related to the regulation of serum inflammatory factor levels and central sensitization.

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of Qingfei Kanghe Decoction in elderly patients with Rifampicin-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) based on standardized treatment.Methods: In this prospective randomized controlled trial, 140 elderly PTB patients with Rifampicin-sensitive strains were admitted to Lishui Hospital of TCM from January 2023 to June 2024 randomly assigned to either Western medicine group (70 cases) and integrated Chinese-Western medicine group (70 cases). The Western medicine group received conventional anti-tuberculosis therapy, while the integrated Chinese-Western medicine group received Qingfei Kanghe Decoction plus conventional therapy. TCM syndrome scores and chest CT findings were assessed after the 2-month intensive phase. Treatment outcomes were evaluated at treatment completion.Results: A total of 137 elderly patients with pulmonary tuberculosis who completed 2-month intensive phase treatment were enrolled, including 69 patients in the western medicine group and 68 patients in the integrated Chinese and Western medicine group. The integrated Chinese and Western medicine group showed significantly better improvements in TCM syndrome scores and chest CT findings compared with the western medicine group (P<0.05). Among all 140 patients, 122 (87.14%) achieved successful treatment outcomes (90 cured and 32 completed treatment courses). The treatment success rate was 92.86% (65/70) in the integrated Chinese and Western medicine group and 81.43% (57/70) in the western medicine group, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.05).Conclusion: Qingfei Kanghe Decoction combined with conventional therapy significantly improves clinical symptoms, and enhances treatment success rates in elderly PTB patients, warranting clinical application.

Objective: To observe the efficacy and safety of Jianpi Jiedu Pills in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris with spleen deficiency and excessive dampness syndrome. Methods: into a control group and a treatment group, with 78 patients in each group. The basic treatment was calcipotriol ointment (topical application, once every night). The control group was given Jianpi Jiedu Pills simulant orally (20 pills per dose, three times a day). The treatment group was given Jianpi Jiedu Pills orally (20 pills per dose, three times a day). The psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), visual analog scale (VAS), body surface area (BSA), dermatology life quality index (DLQI), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS) scores were compared between the two groups before and after 12 weeks of treatment. The recurrence rate and safety indicators of psoriasis during treatment and follow-up were also compared. Results: Before treatment, there were no statistically significant differences in PASI, VAS, BSA, SAS, and SDS scores between the two groups, indicating comparable baselines. After 12 weeks of intervention, the PASI scores of both groups were significantly lower than those before treatment (P<0.01), and the treatment group had significantly lower scores than the control group (P<0.01). Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS scores compared to before treatment (P<0.05), and the treatment group had significantly lower BSA scores (P<0.05). The VAS and BSA scores of the treatment group were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05). Both groups showed significant reductions in DLQI, SAS, and SDS scores compared to before treatment (P<0.05), and the treatment group had significantly lower scores than the control group (P<0.05). At 12 weeks of follow-up, the DLQI scores of both groups were still significantly lower than those before treatment (P<0.05). The recurrence rate was 57.50% in the control group and 36.21% in the treatment group after 12 weeks of treatment. Jianpi Jiedu Pills had few adverse reactions. Conclusion: Jianpi Jiedu Pills can significantly improve psoriasis symptoms, with high safety and few adverse reactions.

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture combined with specific rehabilitation exercise prescription in the treatment of non-specific low back pain (NSLBP).Methods: A total of 49 patients with NSLBP treated in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine from January 2022 to December 2022 were treated with traditional acupuncture and exercise prescription for 2 weeks after the accurate evaluation system of exercise rehabilitation. Pain intensity was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS), and functional disability was evaluated using the Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI). Lumbar range of motion (ROM) and other indexes were measured before and after treatment.Results: The VAS score improved ≥40% compared to baseline. Except for postoperative patients with lumbar fractures, ODI scores improved ≥25%. ROM scores for both flexion and extension increased, with flexion showing greater improvement (exceeding 4°).Conclusion: Acupuncture combined with rehabilitation exercise prescription can effectively improve the pain and dysfunction of patients with NSLBP.