Hierarchical structures of surface-accessible plasmonic gold and silver nanoparticles for SERS detection.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a highly sensitive analytical technique with excellent molecular specificity. However, separate pristine nanoparticles produce relatively weak Raman signals. It is necessary to focus on increasing the "hot-spot" density generated at the nanogaps between the adjacent nanoparticles (second-generation SERS hotspot), thus significantly boosting the Raman signal by creating an electromagnetic field.

The burden of headache disorders among medical students in Vietnam: estimates from a cross-sectional study with a health-care needs assessment.

Background: In our previous study, we demonstrated that headaches are highly prevalent among medical students in Vietnam. In the present study, we provide estimates of the associated symptom burden and impaired participation, utilizing these estimates to assess headache-related healthcare needs within this population.

Methods: The study followed the standardized methodology established by the Global Campaign against Headache.

Rational side-by-side self-assembly of gold nanorods with short and medium aspect ratios the self-evaporation method to boost their potential as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) represents a compelling detection methodology centered on the electromagnetic fields, commonly termed "hot spots", generated around noble nanoparticles. Nonetheless, the efficacy of electromagnetic field (EMF) amplification is constrained when utilizing individual nanoparticles. There has been a notable lack of experimental and theoretically simulated studies regarding the increase of the electromagnetic field when gold nanorods with different aspect ratios undergo self-assembly in either perpendicular or parallel orientations to substrates.

Foot and Ankle Reconstruction Using Retrograde Lateral Supramalleolar Flap.

 Treatment of soft-tissue defects in the foot and ankle is a challenge. The use of a retrograde lateral supramalleolar flap is a promising technique for reconstruction. This study aims to assess the efficacy and outcomes of the technique.

Prospective Evaluation of Ureteral Wall Thickness as a Means to Predict Spontaneous Stone Passage: Is It Beneficial?

Ureteral wall thickness (UWT) was proposed as a potential predictor for spontaneous stone passage (SSP). In earlier studies, the effect could not be isolated from stone size. Accordingly, we sought to determine whether UWT, alone or combined with stone size, could enhance SSP predictability.