High-power Microscopy Research Articles

Conventional microscopy makes perikymata count and spacing data feasible for large samples.

Current methods of quantifying defects of dental enamel (DDE) include either gross or low-level examination for linear enamel hypoplasia, histological analysis of striae of Retzius, or scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of a tooth or a tooth cast. Gross examination has been shown to miss many defects. Other methods can be destructive, require transporting samples, and are expensive. Here, we show that digital light microscopy (DLM) can be used for the analysis of DDE as indicated by widened perikymata spacing (WPS). This method takes advantage of high-power (100×) microscopy, but is non-destructive, can be implemented almost anywhere, and is inexpensive. As proof of concept, we created photomontages of labial surfaces of five human canines from images made using DLM and SEM. We counted and measured the widths of all visible perikymata for each imaging modality and fit measurements to a negative curve representing the expected values for each tooth. We calculated residuals for each measurement. WPS were defined when R2 was in the 90th percentile, and were considered matched in DLM and SEM images when observed within the same decile of the tooth surface. There were more WPS detected in the images derived from DLM than from SEM. Overall, the data derived from the two imaging modalities provided similar information about the frequency and timing of stress during dental development. The method described here allows for DDE data acquisition as WPS from large samples, making feasible population-level studies that reflect sophisticated understanding of dental development.

Electrochemical performance of the mixed solid electrolyte (100-x)Li3SI-xLi6PS5Cl (x = 0, 10, 20, and 30) for all-solid-state lithium batteries

In this study, solid electrolytes with improved performance are synthesized by mixing Li3SI with an anti-perovskite structure that is stable to lithium metal and Li6PS5Cl with high ionic conductivity. (100–x)Li3SI-xLi6PS5Cl (x = 0, 10, 20, 30), which is a mixture of two sulfide-based solid electrolytes, is prepared by ball milling. The structural characteristics, surface morphology, and particle size of the electrolyte material are analyzed using physico-chemical characterization technologies, such as high-power X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is used to calculate the ionic conductivity of the mixed solid electrolyte. The ionic conductivity of 80Li3SI–20Li6PS5Cl, which exhibits the best all-solid-state lithium battery performance, is 5.84 × 10−4 S cm−1. In addition, 80Li3SI–20Li6PS5Cl shows excellent stability against lithium metal. The 2032-type coin cell composed of fabricated Li–In/80Li3SI–20Li6PS5Cl/NCM811 composites shows a superior capacity of 165 mAh g−1 in the initial cycle. This study provides high ionic conductivity and excellent electrochemical performance through the mixing of two kinds of solid electrolyte materials to obtain a promising solid electrolyte.

Research on the Rheological Properties of the Plant Oil Pitch

In the analysis of the rheological properties of the plant oil pitch, the original analysis method has a narrow range of analysis indicators, which affects the reliability of the analysis results. In this study, a new analytical method for the rheological properties of the plant oil pitch was designed. The microstructure characteristics of the plant oil pitch were obtained using a high-power microscope, the viscosity of the plant oil pitch was measured, and the ductility of the plant oil pitch was analyzed by setting the analysis index. The above parts are integrated, and the dynamic shear tester is used to complete the analysis of pitch rheological properties. So far, the analysis method for the rheological properties of the plant oil pitch has been designed. It can be seen from the comparison of the experimental links that this analysis method is better than the original analysis method in terms of the scope of analysis indicators. In conclusion, the analytical method of the rheological properties of the plant oil pitch is more reliable.

Production and characterization of titanium oxide nanoparticle using extract of macrophytic alga

This study described a “green chemistry” synthesis of titanium oxide nanoparticle (TiO2-NP) using environment-friendly reducing agents that were from Elodea canadensis. The obtained TiO2-NP has an intense surface plasmon reverberation band at ~ 250 nm with UV–visible spectroscopic investigation which showed the intactness of TiO2-NPs. The morphological behaviour of TiO2-NPs was watched beneath field-emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, shown that TiO2-NPs have a spherical pattern with a normal estimate of ~ 25 nm in breadth. The occurrence of the critical elements was pinpointed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy study, which displays the predominant titanium and oxide elements. Further support with a defined morphology and size distribution was rendered by atomic force microscopy and 3D high-power microscopy analyses. X-ray powder diffraction and chosen area electron diffraction examinations affirmed that TiO2-NPs are crystal clear in macrocosm. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study was uncovered natural composition of the TiO2-NPs, displaying Ti 2p crested at 458.48 eV with C1s crest for the catalyst that was shaped into a C–H constitute at 284.88 eV. The O 1s spectra moreover were displayed with authoritative vitality at 532.28 eV. XRD analysis gave proportion phase as 75%:25% for anatase and rutile. DLS showed polydispersity index esteem of − 1.23, and zeta potential for green synthesized Ti2O-NPs was − 3.87 mV. A broad hydroxyl peak was identified, and prominent peaks were notified at 1631.78 cm−1 and 3454.51 cm−1 by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis.

Molecularly imprinted polymer amalgamation on narrow-gapped Archimedean-spiral interdigitated electrodes: resistance to electrolyte fouling in acidic medium.

Aconventional photolithography technique was used to fabricate three types of Archimedean-spiral interdigitated electrodes (AIDEs) containing concentric interlocking electrodes with different electrode and gap sizes, i.e., 150μm (D1), 100μm (D2), and 50μm (D3). The precision of the fabrication was validated by surface topography using scanning electron microscopy, high power microscopy, 3D-nano profilometry, and atomic force microscopy. These AIDEs were fabricated with a tolerance of ± 6nm in dimensions. The insignificant current variation at thepico-ampere range for all bare AIDEs further proved the reproducibility of the device. The large gap sized AIDE (D1) is insensitive to acidic medium, whereas D2 and D3 are insensitive to alkali medium. D2 was the best with regard toits electrical characterization. Furthermore, uniformly synthesized molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanoparticles prepared with human blood clotting factor IX and its aptamer were inthe size range 140 to 160nm, attached on the sensing surface and characterized. The average thickness of deposited MIP film was 1.7μm. EDX data shows the prominent peaks for silicon and aluminum substrates as 61.79 and 22.52%, respectively. The MIP nanoparticles-deposited sensor surface was characterized by applying it inelectrolyte solutions, and smooth curves with the current flow wereobserved at pH lower than 8 and discriminated against alkali media. Thisstudy provides a new MIP amalgamated AIDE with nano-gapped fingers enabling analysis of other biomaterials due to its operation in an ideal buffer range.

Facial Reanimation of the Eye Using Neurovascularised Flap of Platysma

Background: Dynamic reanimation is usually required to restore blink function in patients with chronic facial paralysis. In which case, platysma myocutaneous flap (PMF) is a good choice compared to gracilis flap. Platysma is a thin, pliable flap with matching skin colour to the eyelids. Despite this, it is underused.
 Aim: To investigate the neurovasculature of platysma in order to find a common “window” containing nerves and blood vessels supply which is present in every individual. This will aid the plastic surgeons to reconstruct the neurovasculature of the flap for grafting onto the eyelids.
 Methods: 3 fresh cadaver necks were dissected from 1 males and 2 females, aged 75-88 years old; (n=6 platysmas). 43 squared specimens (measuring 1.5cm x 1.5cm) surrounding any potential neurovascular structures were cut out, processed and analysed under high power microscope to confirm the presence of nerves and blood vessels. We also reviewed literature dated from 1999 to 2011.
 Results: From the literature reviewed, the authors concluded that PMF provided excellent functional and aesthetic outcome. In this study, we discovered a “window” flap (ranging from "2.5cm x 3cm‟ to "8cm x 10cm‟) bilaterally on each cadaver. This window is supplied by submental branch of facial artery, drained by facial vein, anterior and external jugular veins, and extensively innervated by cervical branch of facial nerve.
 Conclusion: We strongly advocate the use of PMF “window” by plastic surgeons in dynamic eyelids reanimation.

Distinguishing normal and aggregated alpha-synuclein interaction on gold nanorod incorporated zinc oxide nanocomposite by electrochemical technique

Misfolding and accumulation of the protein alpha synuclein in the brain cells characterize Parkinson's disease (PD). Electrochemical based aluminum interdigitated electrodes (ALIDEs) was fabricated by using conventional photolithography method and modified the surfaces with zinc oxide and gold nanorod by using spin coating method for the analysis of PD protein biomarker. The device surface modified with gold nanorod of 25 nm diameter was used. The bare devices and the surface modified devices were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope, 3D-Profilometer, Atomic Force Microscope and high-power microscope. The above measurement was also performed to measure the interaction of antibody with aggregated alpha-synuclein for normal, aggregated and aggregated alpha synuclein in human serum and distinguished against 3 control proteins (PARK1, DJ-1 and Factor IX). The detection limit for normal alpha synuclein was 1 f. with the sensitivity of 1 f. on a linear regression (R2 = 0.9759). The detection limit for aggregated alpha synuclein was 10 aM with the sensitivity of 1 aM on a linear regression (R2 = 0.9797). Also, the detection limit of aggregated alpha synuclein in serum was 10 aM with the sensitivity of 1 aM on a linear regression (R2 = 0.9739). These results however indicate that, serum has only minimal amount of alpha synuclein.

Molybdenum disulfide—gold nanoparticle nanocomposite in field-effect transistor back-gate for enhanced C-reactive protein detection

Nanofabricated gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) on MoS2 nanosheets (Au-NPs/MoS2) in back-gated field-effect transistor (BG-FET)are presented, which acts as an efficient semiconductor device for detecting a low concentration of C-reactive protein (C-RP). The decorated nanomaterials lead to anenhanced electron conduction layer on a 100-μm-sized transducing channel. The sensing surface was characterized by Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-power microscopy (HPM). The BG-FET device exhibits an excellent limit of detection of8.38fg/mL and a sensitivity of 176nA/g·mL-1. The current study with Au-NPs/MoS2 BG-FET displays a new potential biosensing technology; especially forintegration intocomplementary metal oxide (CMOS) technology for hand-held future device application.

Elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane polymer on conductive interdigitated electrode for analyzing skin hydration dynamics

With an approach towards generating a wearable skin hydration detecting system, simple, cheap, and flexible skin hydration sensing strategy was demonstrated here using an interdigitated electrode (IDE) coated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) matrix. Aluminium IDE with a 400 µm gap and 250 µm electrode sizes were fabricated using a photolithography method. Morphological characterizations were performed using a high power microscope, 3D-profilometer, and scanning electron microscope. The dimensions of electrodes and gaps measured through electron microscopic analysis affirmed the exactness of IDE and the fabrication process. After coated with PDMS polymer, the IDE/PDMS surface was examined under a high power microscope and 3D-profilometer. The optical characterization revealed the polymer was coated on IDE through the color-shade changes and smooth surface observed under an optical microscope and the respective 3D-visualization. IDE/PDMS was also analyzed by an atomic force microscope, revealing the smoothness of the IDE surface. Electrical characterizations were performed using different pH and urea solutions and the sweat to investigate the influence of real-time and artificial sweat on IDE/PDMS. As the device showed appropriate results with real-time sweat and no effect with artificial interferences, it is highly encouraged and recommended for detecting skin hydration and the related illnesses with the point-of-care concept.

The weakening mechanisms of the rock mechanics of marlite bank slopes under water–rock interaction conditions

Karst-related issues have become serious in the Three Gorges reservoir area, where the bank slopes consist of marlite. In this paper, the mineralogical and petrological properties and internal micro-structure development mechanism of the marlite were analyzed to determine its dissolution and weathering characteristics. In addition, the application of high-power electron microscopy identified micro-cracks in the marlite and micro-dissolution vugs on both sides of the micro-cracks. Montmorillonite was shown to be the dominant clay mineral accumulated at the edges of the vugs. Based on the test results of the rock mechanics and the natural dissolution processes, the concept of dissolution coefficient was proposed to describe the strength change pattern of the marlite. Next, the change pattern between the dissolution and strength weakening of the marlite was characterized with the typical four stages of rock compression and deformations. It was also shown that long-term water–rock interactions resulted in unique deformation characteristics in the slopes, while, vertically, the slope bodies could be divided into a strong dissolution zone, medium dissolution zone, and weak dissolution zone.

Design 5.0 µm Gap Aluminium Interdigitated Electrode for Sensitive pH Detection

The aim of the research study to design high sensitive biosensor for medical applications. IDE pattern was designed using AutoCAD software with 5 µm ginger gap. The fabrication process was done using a conventional photolithography process and standard CMOS process. The fabricated electrode was physically characterized using a low power microscope (LPM) and a high power microscope (HPM). The electrically validated through I-V measurements and chemically tested with different pH buffer solutions. Al IDE was well fabricated with 0.1 µm tolerance between the design mask and fabricated IDEs. Electrical measurements confirmed that IDE was well fabricated without any shortage and results of similar IDE samples were confirmed that the repeatability of the device. The extremely small current variations in nano ampere range were quantitatively detected using an extra small volume of 2 µl for different pH buffer solutions. It is confirmed that IDEs are sensitive in both alkali and hydroxyl ions medium.

Comparative Analysis on Dielectric Gold and Aluminium Triangular Junctions: Impact of Ionic Strength and Background Electrolyte by pH Variations

Field of generating a surface thin film is emerging broadly in sensing applications to obtain the quick and fast results by forming the high-performance sensors. Incorporation of thin film technologies in sensor development for the better sensing could be a promising way to attain the current requirements. This work predominantly delineates the fabrication of the dielectric sensor using two different sensing materials (Gold and Aluminium). Conventional photolithography was carried out using silicon as a base material and the photo mask of the dielectric sensor was designed by AutoCAD software. The physical characterization of the fabricated sensor was done by Scanning Electron Microscope, Atomic Force Microscope, High Power Microscope and 3D-nano profiler. The electrical characterization was performed using Keithley 6487 picoammeter with a linear sweep voltage of 0 to 2 V at 0.01 V step voltage. By pH scouting, I-V measurements on the bare sensor were carried out, whereby the gold electrodes conducts a least current than aluminium dielectrodes. Comparative analysis with pH scouting reveals that gold electrode is suitable under varied ionic strengths and background electrolytes, whereas aluminium electrodes were affected by the extreme acid (pH 1) and alkali (pH 12) solutions.

Process development and characterization towards microstructural realization using laser micromachining for MEMS

This paper presents the process development and characterization towards microstructural realization using laser micromachining for MEMS. Laser micromachining technique is environmental friendly, fast patterning and able to avoid multi steps in conventional lithography based microfabrication techniques. This research focuses on understanding the dimensional properties of materials of the laser beam on the silicon wafers where microstructures were fabricated. Four main parameters like rectangular variable aperture (RVA-XY) size, number of pulse, stage/table feed rate and laser energy play important role in laser ablation process. The pattern of the microchannel or line with 1 cm length was drawn by AutoCAD software or any CAD software. The pattern in the CAD software is then transferred onto the silicon wafer by using laser micromachining. Finally, high power microscope (HPM) and Stylus Profiler will be used as measurement tools for observing and analysing the width and depth of the microchannel structures fabricated by laser micromachining. When using bigger size of RVA, it will lead to bigger microchannel width. There are a little effects or almost comparable in term of microchannel depth if varying all parameters’ value. Surface roughness test also needs to be considered before choosing the best setting for the laser ablation.

Tissue Coagulation in Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty - An Experimental Study.

BackgroundLaser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) is a new technique for treatment of hemorrhoids. The exact extent of coagulation is not visible at the time of the procedure. There currently is no experimental or clinical data on the subject.ObjectiveTo evaluate the length of coagulation defect according to power and activation time of 1470nm diode laser on the perianal tissue model.MethodsFresh anorectal tissue of twenty-four pigs was used to produce 54 experimental samples. Each sample was randomly assigned to the laser power of 6, 8 and 10 W and 1, 2 or 3-second pulses. The procedure was performed using Biolitec Ceralas © diode laser with 1.85 mm optical fiber. The fiber was inserted in a manner, similar to intrahemorrhoidal laser application. Samples were evaluated using low-power and high-power light microscopy by a single pathologist. The length of tissue injury was measured on high-magnification microscopy.ResultsThe longest tissue injury (mean 3.93 mm) was caused by the longest laser exposure time (3 sec) with no significant difference between laser power used.Conclusions8 W 3-second application of the 1470nm diode laser results in coagulation area approximately 4 mm, and further coagulation should be initiated approximately 5 mm from the first one.

648 Direct Comparison of Fractional Carbon Dioxide Lasers Systems: Ablative Well Properties and Healing

Abstract Introduction Ablative lasers are a common tool for burn scar remodeling with numerous commercially available systems, each with varying capabilities. Among fractional CO2 (FXCO2) laser systems, the same nomenclature is utilized to describe properties of the laser including beam fluence and fractional coverage. Despite identical laser settings for these properties, the outcomes in two patient cohorts utilizing two different FXCO2 laser systems were notably different. As a result, a direct comparison of ablative wells, fractional coverage and healing between the two systems was conducted using ex-vivo and porcine models. Methods An ex-vivo study comparing fractional coverage settings (1%, 3%, and 5%) between the two different FXCO2 laser systems was first carried out (all measurements were obtained by a blinded rater using a high-powered microscope to quantify ablative area). Porcine skin was then treated with the two systems at 10–70 mJ. To compare ablative well properties, biopsies were collected and serial sectioned with the deepest/widest point of each well calculated from the histological section using ImageJ. Fractional coverage for each laser system was quantified for three different settings: 70 mJ 1%, 70 mJ 5%, and 30 mJ 5%. Finally, re-epithelialization rate (as measured by transepidermal water loss), erythema and expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines were quantified in a porcine burn model prior to and at multiple time points following treatment with both laser systems (70 mJ, 5% fractional coverage). Results The two laser systems produced significantly different ablative wells. In the ex-vivo study, the fractional coverage measurements obtained differed from those provided by the manufacturer by 1.6 - 8.9%. In the porcine study, at 70 mJ, the ablative wells created from system 1 were deep and narrow, on average 1251 + 183 µm deep and 142 + 32 µm wide whereas wells from system 2 were shallow and wide, 374 + 44 µm deep and 267 + 35 µm wide. Following treatment, scars treated with system 2 re-established barrier function within 7 days whereas scars treated with system 1 re-established within 4 days. A significant increase in gene expression for IL-6 was observed in both systems at 1-hour post laser. Expression levels returned to baseline in system 2 by 24 hours whereas a return to baseline was not observed until the 96-hour time point for system 2. Conclusions While different FXCO2 laser systems utilize the same nomenclature for user selected properties, the same settings are not equivalent between systems resulting in significantly different ablative wells and downstream healing. Applicability of Research to Practice Laser systems should not be considered interchangeable despite being programmed for the same settings.

Scanning Electron Microscopy Study of Retrieved Implants Suggests a Ratcheting Mechanism Behind Medial Migration in Cephalomedullary Nailing of Hip Fractures.

Introduction:Medial migration is the paradoxical migration of the femoral neck element (FNE) superomedially against gravity with respect to the intramedullary component of the cephalomedullary device, increasingly seen in the management of pertrochanteric hip fractures with the intramedullary nail. We postulate that the peculiar anti-gravity movement of the FNE in the medial migration phenomenon stems from a ratcheting mechanism at the intramedullary nail-FNE interface, which should inadvertently produce unique wear patterns on the FNE that can be seen with high-powered microscopy. By examining the wear patterns on retrieved implants from patients with medial migration, our study aims to draw clinical correlations to the ratcheting mechanism hypothesis.Material and Methods:Four FNEs were retrieved from revision surgeries of four patients with prior intramedullary nail fixation of their pertrochanteric hip fractures complicated by femoral head perforation. The FNEs were divided into two groups based on whether or not there was radiographic evidence of medial migration prior to the revisions. Wear patterns on the FNEs were then assessed using both scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy.Results:Repetitive, linearly-arranged, regularly-spaced, unique transverse scratch marks were found only in the group with medial migration, corresponding to the specific segment of the FNE that passed through the intramedullary component of the PFNA during medial migration. These scratch marks were absent in the group without medial migration.Conclusion:Our findings are in support of a ratcheting mechanism behind the medial migration phenomenon with repetitive toggling at the intramedullary nail-FNE interface and progressive propagation of the FNE against gravity.

Analysis on Gold Nanorod Interdigitated Elecrtrode Sensor Using Simple Photolithograpic Process

With the higher demand of preventative healthcare in order to minimize costs and improve healthcare systems, the development and enhancement of sensor technology is vital. It is essential to develop a diagnostic device that can minimize time and lower task in testing, and can effectively reduce manufacturing and delivery costs because of portability of its designs. Here, we briefly describe the fabrication of aluminum interdigitated electrodes and deposition of gold nanorod on the fabricated microelectrode that can detect changes on the modified surface of the aluminum interdigitated electrode. Electrodes made from aluminum was employed for the fabrication because it is the most widely used electrode. Gold nanorod was deposited on the desired surface in order to enhance an enzymatic Response. The use of gold nanorod also enhances the sensitivity of detection due to the decrease of the thickness of probed zone. A simple and facile method for the deposition of gold nanorod colloid was described via a simple photolithographic technique on the interdigitated electrode (IDE). The gold nanoparticles pattern deposition on IDE was investigated by high power microscope (HPM), 3D Profilometer, and atomic force microscope (AFM).

Aluminium Interdigitated Electrode Based Biosensor for Specific ssDNA Target Listeria Detection

Nowadays interdigitated electrode (IDE) based sensor have stimulated increasing interest in the application of biosensor filed. A large number of finger electrodes as comb structure gain high sensitivity through electrical measurements. In this paper, we have investigated Listeria bacteria detection through the electrical based IDE. Listeria monocytogenes is a food borne pathogen-based bacterium that can cause dangerous disease to human, some infection may result in death. The AutoCAD software was used to design the chrome mask of IDE sensor and the fabrication process was done using conventional photolithography method. The fabricated Al IDE morphologically analyzed using a low power microscope (LPM), a high-power microscope (HPM) and 3D profiler. Functionalization step of the Al IDE, silanization process was done using (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), immobilization process was done using carboxylic probe Listeria and Tween-20 as a blocking agent for nonspecific binding on the non-immobilized area of the biosensor surface. The biosensor was validated with complementary, non-complementary and single base mismatch ssDNA targets. Different concentration of complementary ssDNA target from 1 fM to 1 µM was done for the sensitivity detection.

Divalent ion-induced aggregation of gold nanoparticles for voltammetry Immunosensing: comparison of transducer signals in an assay for the squamous cell carcinoma antigen.

A method is described for the electrochemical determination of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen, and by testing the effect of 30nm gold nanoparticles (GNPs). Three comparative studies were performed in the presence and absence of GNPs, and with agglomerated GNPs. The divalent ion Ca(II) was used to induce a strong agglomeration of GNPs, as confirmed by colorimetry and voltammetry. Herein, colorimetry was used to test the best amount of salt needed to aggregate the GNPs. Despite, voltammetry was used to determine the status of biomolecules on the sensor. The topography of the surface of ZnO-coated interdigitated electrodes was analyzed by using 3D-nano profilometry, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and high-power microscopy. The interaction between SCC antigen and antibody trigger vibrations on the sensor and cause dipole moment, which was measured using a picoammeter with a linear sweep from 0 to 2V at 0.01V step voltage. The sensitivity level was 10 fM by 3σ calculation for the dispersed GNP-conjugated antigen. This indicates a 100-fold enhancement compared to the condition without GNP conjugation. However, the sensitivity level for agglomerated GNPs conjugated antibody was not significant with 100 fM sensitivity. Specificity was tested for other proteins in serum, namely blood clotting factor IX, C-reactive protein, and serum albumin. The SCC antigen was quantified in spiked serum and gave recoveries that ranged between 80 and 90%. Graphical abstractSchematic representation of SCC (squamous cell carcinoma) antigen determination using divalent ion induced agglomerated GNPs. Sensitivity increment depends on the occurrence of more SCC antigen and antibody binding event via GNPs integration. Notably, lower detection limit was achieved at femto molar with proper orientation of biological molecules.

Quantification of cortisol for the medical diagnosis of multiple pregnancy-related diseases.

Cortisol is a stress hormone released from the adrenal glands and is responsible for both hyperglycemia and hypertension during pregnancy. These factors make it mandatory to detect the levels of cortisol during pregnancy to identify and treat hypoglycemia and hypertension. In this study, cortisol levels were quantified with an aptamer-conjugated gold nanorod using an electrochemical interdigitated electrode sensor. The surface uniformity was analyzed by high-power microscopy and 3D-nanoprofiler imaging. The detection limit was determined to be 0.01ng/mL, and a linear regression indicated that the sensitivity range was in the range of 0.01-0.1ng/mL, based on a 3σ calculation. Moreover, the specificity of the aptamer was determined by a binding analysis against norepinephrine and progesterone, and it was clearly found that the aptamer specifically recognizes only cortisol. Further, the presence of cortisol was detected in the serum in a dose-dependent manner. This method is useful to detect and correlate multiple pregnancy-related diseases by quantifying the levels of cortisol.