Multi-mode ultrasonic evaluation method and system for treating diabetic neuropathy by traditional Chinese medicine

Abstract

The invention provides a multi-mode ultrasonic evaluation method and system for treating diabetic neuropathy through traditional Chinese medicine. The method comprises the steps that firstly, multi-mode ultrasonic data containing the nerve cross sectional area, the Young modulus value and intra-nerve blood perfusion information are obtained from a target nerve; the method comprises the following steps: applying non-toxic spray gel containing specific modified core-shell structure quantum dots to the surface of a tongue coat to mark tongue coat epithelial cells or microbiota, then applying a standardized low-energy pulse type ultrasonic perturbation field, meanwhile, exciting the quantum dots by using low-power laser, and monitoring in real time by using a time-dependent single photon counting technology to obtain relaxation data; generating syndrome dynamic response fingerprints based on the data, and mapping the fingerprints to traditional Chinese medicine syndromes such as qi deficiency and blood stasis through a machine learning model; and finally, according to the multi-mode ultrasonic data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, dynamically monitoring the change of the nerve-related indexes and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment. According to the method, traditional Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation type objective quantitative evaluation is realized, subjective defects are overcome, and the curative effect is accurately monitored.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of medical monitoring, and in particular relates to a multimodal ultrasound assessment method and system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) assessment methods for diabetic neuropathy (DPN) are used to diagnose DPN and evaluate the efficacy of TCM treatments (such as decoctions and herbal poultices). These methods primarily rely on neurophysiological examinations (such as nerve conduction velocity measurements) and TCM syndrome differentiation (such as observation, auscultation and olfaction, inquiry, and palpation).

[0003] Neurophysiological examination involves stimulating nerves with electrodes and recording electrical signals to obtain nerve function parameters; while traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome differentiation involves doctors subjectively observing symptoms such as the color and thickness of the tongue coating to classify syndromes such as Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome and Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome. Tongue observation relies on visual perception of the macroscopic features of the tongue coating surface and lacks molecular-level quantitative analysis of the tongue coating microenvironment (such as microbial metabolic activity), thus only providing subjective descriptive results.

[0004] The subjective method of observing the tongue coating relies on the doctor's personal experience and visual judgment, which has the drawbacks of strong subjectivity in syndrome differentiation and lack of objective quantitative indicators. This leads to inaccurate correlation between TCM syndrome types and pathological changes, and unreliable efficacy evaluation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to overcome the deficiencies in the prior art and provide a multimodal ultrasound assessment method and system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine.

[0006] This application provides a multimodal ultrasound assessment method for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, including:

[0007] Multimodal ultrasound data is acquired from the target nerve, including the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by microflow imaging.

[0008] A non-toxic spray gel containing specially modified core-shell quantum dots is applied to the surface of the tongue coating to label the tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota.

[0009] A standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied to the tongue coating;

[0010] While applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the quantum dot is excited with a low-power laser, and the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime is monitored in real time using time-correlated single-photon counting technology to obtain relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery.

[0011] Based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is generated.

[0012] The dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is mapped to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis obstructing the collaterals syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome.

[0013] Based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy is dynamically monitored. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

[0014] Optionally, a non-toxic spray gel is applied to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specifically modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota, including:

[0015] The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots;

[0016] The quantum dots are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification;

[0017] The non-toxic spray gel adheres evenly to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner.

[0018] Optionally, a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied to the tongue coating, including:

[0019] Precise calibration of ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration;

[0020] A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters to ensure that the perturbation field is non-invasive.

[0021] Optionally, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the quantum dot is excited using a low-power laser, and the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime is monitored in real time using time-correlated single-photon counting technology to obtain relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery state, including:

[0022] The time-correlated single-photon counting technology acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time with picosecond resolution;

[0023] Record the relaxation curves from rest to disturbance and then to recovery.

[0024] Optionally, based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, a symptom dynamic response fingerprint is generated, including:

[0025] Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed, and curve shape.

[0026] Generate a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the aforementioned feature parameters.

[0027] This application also provides a multimodal ultrasound assessment system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, including:

[0028] The acquisition module acquires multimodal ultrasound data from the target nerve. The multimodal ultrasound data includes the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by micro-blood flow imaging.

[0029] A spray module applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specially modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota;

[0030] The ultrasound module applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating;

[0031] The data module, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, uses a low-power laser to excite the quantum dot, and employs time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery.

[0032] The fingerprint module generates a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve;

[0033] The mapping module maps the dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis obstruction syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome.

[0034] The monitoring module dynamically monitors the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

[0035] Optionally, the data module applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specifically modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota, including:

[0036] The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots;

[0037] The quantum dots are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification;

[0038] The non-toxic spray gel adheres evenly to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner.

[0039] Optionally, the ultrasound module applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating, including:

[0040] Precise calibration of ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration;

[0041] A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters to ensure that the perturbation field is non-invasive.

[0042] Optionally, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the data module excites the quantum dot with a low-power laser and uses time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot's fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to recovery, including:

[0043] The time-correlated single-photon counting technology acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time with picosecond resolution;

[0044] Record the relaxation curves from rest to disturbance and then to recovery.

[0045] Optionally, the fingerprint module generates a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, including:

[0046] Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed, and curve shape.

[0047] Generate a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the aforementioned feature parameters.

[0048] The beneficial effects of this application are:

[0049] Invention Point 1: Applying a non-toxic spray gel containing quantum dots to label the tongue coating, applying a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, exciting quantum dots with a low-power laser and using time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic changes in fluorescence lifetime, and generating a dynamic response fingerprint of syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime curve.

[0050] Invention Point 2: Obtaining nerve cross-sectional area through high-frequency ultrasound imaging, obtaining Young's modulus value through shear wave elastography, obtaining intraneural blood flow perfusion information through micro-blood flow imaging, dynamic response fingerprint of syndrome, and dynamic monitoring of changes before and after treatment.

[0051] Invention Point 3: Syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, mapped to TCM syndrome types through machine learning models such as LSTM networks, and multimodal ultrasound data as auxiliary input.

[0052] This application provides a multimodal ultrasound assessment method for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, comprising: acquiring multimodal ultrasound data from the target nerve, wherein the multimodal ultrasound data includes the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by micro-blood flow imaging; applying a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, wherein the spray gel contains specially modified core-shell structured quantum dots to label the tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota; applying a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating; and simultaneously applying the ultrasound micro-perturbation field while exciting the quantum dots with a low-power laser. This application employs time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic changes in the fluorescence lifetime of quantum dots in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to perturbation and then to recovery. Based on the dynamic changes in fluorescence lifetime, a syndrome dynamic response fingerprint is generated. This syndrome dynamic response fingerprint is mapped to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis obstruction syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome. Based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, the efficacy of TCM treatment for diabetic neuropathy is dynamically monitored. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment. This application achieves objective and quantitative evaluation of TCM syndrome differentiation by applying non-toxic spray gel to label the tongue coating, applying an ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, monitoring the dynamic changes in quantum dot fluorescence lifetime, generating a syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, and mapping it to TCM syndrome types. This overcomes the subjective defects and thus accurately and dynamically monitors the efficacy of TCM treatment for DPN. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the multimodal ultrasound assessment process for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine in this application;

[0054] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the multimodal ultrasound assessment system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0055] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it is to be understood that various forms of implementation of the present disclosure are intended and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, the embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0056] Please refer to Figure 1As shown, this application provides a multimodal ultrasound assessment method for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine. It is applied to the field of TCM treatment assessment of diabetic neuropathy and is used to solve the problems of traditional diagnostic methods being complicated, invasive, insensitive to early lesions, and lacking objective quantitative indicators for TCM efficacy assessment.

[0057] This method uses multimodal ultrasound to quantitatively assess neuromorphology, biomechanical properties, and microcirculation perfusion, and combines this with dynamic decoding technology of the tongue coating microenvironment to achieve objectification of TCM syndrome differentiation and dynamic monitoring of therapeutic effects.

[0058] The method includes the following steps:

[0059] S101. Acquire multimodal ultrasound data from the target nerve, wherein the multimodal ultrasound data includes the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by micro-blood flow imaging.

[0060] The aim is to quantify the pathological changes in diabetic peripheral neuropathy from three dimensions: nerve morphology, elastic stiffness, and blood perfusion.

[0061] The target nerve is usually a peripheral nerve that is easy to explore, such as the tibial nerve, median nerve, or common peroneal nerve.

[0062] In high-frequency ultrasound imaging, transverse and longitudinal images of the nerve are acquired at standard anatomical sites, such as the pisiform bone level in the carpal tunnel. The cross-sectional area and thickness of the nerve are measured, and the clarity of the "sieve-like" structure of the nerve bundle and the roughness of the epineurium are observed. Simultaneously, dynamic assessments are performed, such as measuring the rate of change of the nerve's cross-sectional area during passive movements like finger extension and flexion, to evaluate nerve gliding function.

[0063] In shear wave elastography, the stiffness or elasticity of nerve tissue is quantitatively assessed. Early neuropathy may show an increase in nerve stiffness before morphological changes. Young's modulus is measured at the target nerve site, with the unit being kPa. Studies have shown that the Young's modulus of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy is significantly higher than that of healthy individuals. The optimal cutoff value for diagnosis is 46.7 kPa, with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 88%.

[0064] Microvascular imaging assesses the blood flow perfusion in and around the nerve. Color Doppler or ultramicrovascular imaging techniques are used to observe whether there is an increase or decrease in blood flow signals inside the nerve, and semi-quantitative analysis can be performed.

[0065] Traditional Chinese medicine, such as decoctions and poultices, has shown unique advantages in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, efficacy assessment has long relied on subjective symptom descriptions and lacks objective quantitative indicators. This application addresses this limitation through multimodal ultrasound quantitative assessment. The overall technical framework of this application follows the process of data acquisition, feature extraction, model evaluation, and clinical decision support. Its system architecture clearly demonstrates the entire process from basic data to clinical application.

[0066] S102. Apply a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specially modified core-shell structured quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota.

[0067] The aim is to provide a marker basis for the dynamic decoding of the tongue coating microenvironment and to achieve the objectification of TCM syndrome differentiation.

[0068] The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots, which are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification. The non-toxic spray gel is uniformly adhered to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner. First, a high-resolution digital image of the tongue coating is acquired under a standard light source for preliminary morphological analysis. Then, the quantum dots are uniformly and temporarily adhered to the tongue surface through the spray gel.

[0069] This is part of the TCM syndrome objectification module, namely, dynamic decoding of quantum dot spectral fingerprinting coupled with multimodal ultrasound field.

[0070] S103. Apply a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating.

[0071] The aim is to apply non-invasive perturbation to the tongue coating microenvironment to elicit a dynamic response.

[0072] The ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration are precisely calibrated to ensure the standardization of the perturbation field. A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters. The field parameters are precisely calibrated and only cause weak perturbation to the microenvironment without causing damage.

[0073] Standardized perturbations ensure the consistency and repeatability of subsequent data collection.

[0074] S104. While applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the quantum dot is excited using a low-power laser, and the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime is monitored in real time using time-correlated single-photon counting technology to obtain relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery.

[0075] The aim is to capture the dynamic response information of the tongue coating microenvironment to standard stimuli.

[0076] The time-correlated single-photon counting technique acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time at picosecond resolution, recording the relaxation curve from resting to perturbation and then to recovery. This curve contains dynamic information related to the metabolic activity of the tongue coating microenvironment, such as the relaxation process of fluorescence lifetime.

[0077] Dynamic data is acquired through high-precision technology, providing raw data for generating symptom fingerprints.

[0078] S105. Based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, generate a syndrome dynamic response fingerprint.

[0079] Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed and curve shape; a unique "symptom dynamic response fingerprint" is generated based on these feature parameters, which reflects the functional state of the tongue coating microenvironment.

[0080] The dynamic response fingerprint of a syndrome is quantified using the following feature formula:

[0081]

[0082] Wherein, F is the weighted average fluorescence lifetime, w_i is the weighting coefficient at the i-th time point, and τ_i is the fluorescence lifetime value at the i-th time point.

[0083] The dynamic fluorescence lifetime response curve of the tongue coating microenvironment under standardized ultrasound micro-perturbation is transformed into a quantifiable value, which includes the dynamic response information of the tongue coating microenvironment to standard stimuli, forming a unique "syndrome dynamic response fingerprint". Through a weighted average method, the overall characteristics of the response curve are integrated, and the weight coefficient w_i can be calibrated according to the characteristics of different TCM syndromes. For example, Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome may be given higher weight in the recovery stage to capture the characteristic of "slow recovery".

[0084] Transforming subjective "tongue observation" into objective data provides repeatable input for TCM syndrome differentiation.

[0085] The Dynamic Response Index (DRI) is calculated using the following formula:

[0086]

[0087] Wherein, DRI is the dynamic response index, Δτ_max is the maximum fluorescence lifetime change, τ_0 is the baseline fluorescence lifetime value at rest, and t_r is the time required to recover to the baseline. The relative magnitude of the partially quantized response. Partially quantify the recovery speed to capture subtle differences between different syndrome types.

[0088] For example, a small response amplitude and slow recovery may indicate low metabolic activity in the microenvironment, while a rapid but unstable response may indicate deficiency of Yin fluid. This step achieves objective characterization of the syndrome through quantitative analysis.

[0089] This curve contains information on the dynamic response of the tongue coating microenvironment to standard stimuli, forming a unique dynamic response fingerprint of syndrome.

[0090] S106. The dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is mapped to a TCM syndrome type through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis obstruction syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome.

[0091] The goal is to automate and objectify the differentiation and classification of syndromes in traditional Chinese medicine.

[0092] By using machine learning models such as LSTM networks, the dynamic response fingerprint of syndromes is mapped to TCM syndrome types confirmed by expert consensus, thus establishing an objective syndrome type classifier. Simultaneously, by combining multimodal ultrasound data, a correlation was established between TCM syndrome types and ultrasound characteristics. For example, Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome often corresponds to a slightly increased nerve cross-sectional area (average 11.48 mm²), a possibly slightly increased Young's modulus, and reduced blood flow signal; the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint shows a small response amplitude and slow recovery. Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome corresponds to a moderately increased nerve cross-sectional area (average 13.54 mm²), a moderately increased Young's modulus, and fluctuating blood flow signal; the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint shows a rapid but unstable response and fluctuating relaxation curve. Phlegm and blood stasis syndrome corresponds to a significantly increased nerve cross-sectional area (average 16.29 mm²), a significantly increased Young's modulus, and possibly increased blood flow signal; the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint shows a large response amplitude and complex curve morphology. Liver and kidney deficiency syndrome corresponds to an increased nerve cross-sectional area (average 18.84 mm²), a significantly increased Young's modulus, and reduced blood flow signal; the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint shows a weak response and a flat curve. This step transforms subjective diagnosis into objective classification through a data-driven approach.

[0093] Table 1 below shows the typical correlation patterns between different TCM syndrome types and multimodal ultrasound features. The determination of TCM syndrome types has been objectively based on the TCM syndrome objectification module mentioned above.

[0094] Table 1:

[0095] Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome High-frequency ultrasound features (nerve cross-sectional area, CSA) Shear wave elastic imaging (Young's modulus) Microflow imaging characteristics Syndrome dynamic response fingerprint characteristics (fluorescence lifetime relaxation curve) Clinical significance Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome Slight enlargement (e.g., average 11.48 mm²) May be slightly elevated Reduced blood flow signals The small response amplitude and slow recovery indicate low metabolic activity in the microenvironment. In the early stages of the disease, the circulation of Qi and blood is not smooth. Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome Moderate enlargement (e.g., average 13.54 mm²) moderate increase Blood flow signals are variable The response is rapid but unstable, with fluctuations in the relaxation curve, indicating a deficiency of Yin fluid and malnourishment of the blood vessels. Yin deficiency and blood stasis Phlegm and blood stasis obstructing the collaterals syndrome Significantly increased (e.g., average 16.29 mm²) Significantly increased Increased blood flow signals (phlegm-dampness) The large response amplitude and complex curve shape suggest internal accumulation of phlegm and dampness, and a disordered microenvironment. Phlegm and blood stasis intertwined, with significant nerve swelling. Liver and kidney deficiency syndrome Extremely large (e.g., average 18.84 mm²) Significantly increased Reduced blood flow signals A weak response and a flat curve indicate a decline in overall function. In the later stages of the disease, nerve damage is severe.

[0096] S107. Based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, dynamically monitor the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

[0097] The goal is to achieve real-time, objective assessment of treatment efficacy and personalized treatment adjustments.

[0098] In traditional Chinese medicine treatments, such as oral administration of modified Jimingsan granules, the treatment principle is to warm the yang, dispel dampness, disperse cold, and unblock the meridians; or, before and after external application of Chinese herbal poultices, traditional examinations such as multimodal ultrasound assessment of limb nerves, dynamic response fingerprinting of tongue coating syndrome, and nerve conduction velocity are performed.

[0099] Effective indicators include morphological improvements such as a significant reduction in nerve cross-sectional area compared to before treatment, elastic recovery such as a decrease in Young's modulus, improved blood flow such as increased intraneural blood perfusion, and improved syndromes such as the dynamic response fingerprint of syndromes approaching the characteristics of healthy individuals (e.g., the response curve regains vitality and enhances stability).

[0100] The degree of improvement in symptoms (ΔF) is calculated using the following formula:

[0101]

[0102] Wherein, ΔF represents the degree of symptom improvement, F_t represents the dynamic response fingerprint characteristic value of the symptom after treatment, and F_0 represents the dynamic response fingerprint characteristic value of the symptom before treatment. The rate of change is calculated based on the F value and used in conjunction with multimodal ultrasound parameters to achieve comprehensive evaluation. ΔF provides an objective indicator of symptom improvement, which, when correlated with ultrasound parameters, makes efficacy assessment more quantitative and repeatable, supporting clinical decision-making.

[0103] Meanwhile, these parameters are positively correlated with increased nerve conduction velocity and decreased Toronto clinical scores.

[0104] By dynamically analyzing multi-dimensional data, we can provide a basis for adjusting treatment plans and improve the precision of treatment.

[0105] The assessment process includes traditional examinations such as multimodal ultrasound assessment of limb nerves, dynamic response fingerprinting of tongue coating syndrome, and nerve conduction velocity, performed before, 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months after TCM treatment.

[0106] This application integrates multimodal ultrasound and dynamic decoding of the tongue coating microenvironment to achieve objectification of TCM syndrome differentiation and systematic monitoring of efficacy, providing a comprehensive and quantitative assessment tool for TCM treatment of diabetic neuropathy.

[0107] The advantages of this application include: achieving a breakthrough in TCM syndrome differentiation: through the synergy of quantum dots and ultrasound fields, the subjective "tongue observation" is transformed into a dynamic and quantitative assessment of the function of the tongue coating microenvironment, providing an unprecedented objective tool for TCM research. It enhances the overall comprehensiveness and accuracy of the assessment system: by combining the structural and functional state of limb nerves with TCM syndrome information reflecting the overall state, a more comprehensive "disease-syndrome" combined assessment system is constructed, making efficacy assessment more accurate. It strengthens the ability to predict efficacy and personalize treatment: subtle changes in the dynamic response fingerprint of syndromes before and after early treatment may precede significant changes in neural structure, providing a crucial window for predicting efficacy in advance and adjusting treatment plans in a timely manner.

[0108] like Figure 2 As shown, this application also provides a multimodal ultrasound assessment system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, comprising:

[0109] The acquisition module 201 acquires multimodal ultrasound data from the target nerve. The multimodal ultrasound data includes the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastic imaging, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by micro-blood flow imaging.

[0110] The spray module 202 applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specially modified core-shell structured quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota;

[0111] The ultrasound module 203 applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating;

[0112] Data module 204, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, uses a low-power laser to excite the quantum dot, and uses time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime in real time, and obtains relaxation data from resting state to perturbation and then to recovery;

[0113] Fingerprint module 205 generates a dynamic response fingerprint of syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve;

[0114] The mapping module 206 maps the dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome.

[0115] The monitoring module 207 dynamically monitors the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

[0116] Optionally, the data module applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specifically modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota, including:

[0117] The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots;

[0118] The quantum dots are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification;

[0119] The non-toxic spray gel adheres evenly to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner.

[0120] Optionally, the ultrasound module applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating, including:

[0121] Precise calibration of ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration;

[0122] A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters to ensure that the perturbation field is non-invasive.

[0123] Optionally, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the data module excites the quantum dot with a low-power laser and uses time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot's fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to recovery, including:

[0124] The time-correlated single-photon counting technology acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time with picosecond resolution;

[0125] Record the relaxation curves from rest to disturbance and then to recovery.

[0126] Optionally, the fingerprint module generates a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, including:

[0127] Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed, and curve shape.

[0128] Generate a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the aforementioned feature parameters.

[0129] The above description of the embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand and apply this application. Those skilled in the art will readily make various modifications to the above embodiments and apply the general principles described herein to other embodiments without inventive effort. Therefore, this application is not limited to the above embodiments, and any improvements and modifications made to this application based on the disclosure thereof should be within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A multimodal ultrasound assessment method for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, characterized in that, include: Multimodal ultrasound data is acquired from the target nerve, including the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by microflow imaging. A non-toxic spray gel containing specially modified core-shell quantum dots is applied to the surface of the tongue coating to label the tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota. A standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied to the tongue coating; While applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the quantum dot is excited with a low-power laser, and the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime is monitored in real time using time-correlated single-photon counting technology to obtain relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery. Based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is generated. The dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is mapped to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis obstructing the collaterals syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome. Based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint, the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy is dynamically monitored. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, A non-toxic spray gel is applied to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specifically modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota, including: The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots; The quantum dots are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification; The non-toxic spray gel adheres evenly to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Applying a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating includes: Precise calibration of ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration; A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters to ensure that the perturbation field is non-invasive.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, While applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the quantum dots are excited using a low-power laser. Time-correlated single-photon counting technology is employed to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to recovery, including: The time-correlated single-photon counting technology acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time with picosecond resolution; Record the relaxation curves from rest to disturbance and then to recovery.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome is generated, including: Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed, and curve shape. Generate a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the aforementioned feature parameters.

6. A multimodal ultrasound assessment system for treating diabetic neuropathy with traditional Chinese medicine, characterized in that, include: The acquisition module acquires multimodal ultrasound data from the target nerve. The multimodal ultrasound data includes the nerve cross-sectional area obtained by high-frequency ultrasound imaging, the Young's modulus value obtained by shear wave elastography, and the intraneural blood flow perfusion information obtained by micro-blood flow imaging. A spray module applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating, the spray gel containing specially modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota; The ultrasound module applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating; The data module, while applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, uses a low-power laser to excite the quantum dot, and employs time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery. The fingerprint module generates a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve; The mapping module maps the dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome to TCM syndrome types through a machine learning model. The TCM syndrome types include Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, Yin deficiency and blood stasis syndrome, phlegm and blood stasis syndrome, and liver and kidney deficiency syndrome. The monitoring module dynamically monitors the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine in treating diabetic neuropathy based on the multimodal ultrasound data and the syndrome dynamic response fingerprint. The dynamic monitoring includes changes in nerve cross-sectional area, Young's modulus, blood perfusion, and syndrome dynamic response fingerprint before and after treatment.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The data module applies a non-toxic spray gel to the surface of the tongue coating. The spray gel contains specifically modified core-shell quantum dots to label tongue coating epithelial cells or microbiota, including: The specifically modified core-shell quantum dots are CdSe / ZnS quantum dots; The quantum dots are specifically bound to tongue epithelial cells or specific microbial communities through surface modification; The non-toxic spray gel adheres evenly to the tongue surface in a biodegradable manner.

8. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The ultrasound module applies a standardized low-energy pulsed ultrasound micro-perturbation field to the tongue coating, including: Precise calibration of ultrasonic energy, pulse frequency, and duration; A low-energy pulsed ultrasonic micro-perturbation field is applied according to the calibrated parameters to ensure that the perturbation field is non-invasive.

9. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, While applying the ultrasonic micro-perturbation field, the data module excites the quantum dots using a low-power laser and employs time-correlated single-photon counting technology to monitor the dynamic change curve of the quantum dot fluorescence lifetime in real time, acquiring relaxation data from the resting state to the perturbation and then to the recovery state, including: The time-correlated single-photon counting technology acquires fluorescence lifetime data in real time with picosecond resolution; Record the relaxation curves from rest to disturbance and then to recovery.

10. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fingerprint module generates a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the fluorescence lifetime dynamic change curve, including: Feature parameters are extracted from the relaxation curve, including response amplitude, recovery speed, and curve shape. Generate a dynamic response fingerprint of the syndrome based on the aforementioned feature parameters.

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