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Leveraging TIPS-assisted one-pot di-bromination for thiazole-flanked NDI and PDI conjugated n-type semiconductors
No full textHigh-performance unipolar n-type semiconductors are essential for advancing organic electronics. This study explores the impact of fluorination on thiazole-flanked naphthalenediimide (NDI) and perylenediimide (PDI) copolymers with benzothiadiazole (BT) acceptors. A novel one-pot bromination strategy enabled efficient synthesis of these electron-deficient monomers, which were subsequently copolymerized with fluorinated and non-fluorinated BT units. Optical and electrochemical analyses revealed that fluorination systematically lowers the LUMO energy levels, enhancing charge injection and n-type behavior. Fluorine substitution also influences molecular packing, as evidenced by UV-Vis absorption shifts, cyclic voltammetry, and grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS). While moderate fluorination improves electron mobility by promoting backbone planarity and p–p stacking, excessive substitution disrupts molecular ordering, reducing charge transport efficiency. The optimized fluorinated copolymers exhibit electron mobilities up to 1.3 10 3 cm2 V 1 s 1, demonstrating the potential of fluorination in tuning electronic properties for next-generation hybrid organic semiconductors
Dy3+ - Activated NaY9Si6O26 luminescent ceramic powder: Optical and thermometric properties
No full textHere, we elaborated the structural, morphological, optical and thermometric properties of Dy3+- activated NaY9Si6O26 oxyapatite phosphor synthesized hydrothermally and annealed at high temperature. X-ray diffraction patterns of NaY9Si6O26: xDy3+(x =0.5; 1; 2; 4; 6; 8 mol% Dy3+) samples confirmed a single-phase hexagonal structure with P63/m space group. Transmission electron microscopy images showed dense agglomerates composed of round-shaped nanoparticles with a size of ~50 nm. Room temperature photoluminescent emission spectra show distinct emission bands in the visible spectral region corresponding to 4I15/2 → 6H15/2 (~454 nm, blue), 4F9/2 → 6H15/2 (~488 nm, blue), and 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 (~573 nm, yellow) f-f transitions. Lifetime measurements reveal the double exponenational nature of emission decay showing decrase in lifetime values with the increase of Dy3+concentration (from 1.32 ms for the lowest to 0.16 ms for the highest Dy3+concentration). Temperature dependent emission spectra were measured for the sample with the highest emission intensity resulting in a luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) study employing the ratio of 4I15/2 → 6H15/2 and 4F9/2 → 6H15/2 transitions for thermometry. Absolute (Sa) and relative sensitivity (Sr) of 2.960 K-1 @ 725 K, and 1.67 %K 1 @ 300 K, respectively, were calculated
Association of TGFB1 and IFNB1 expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells with multiple sclerosis with respect to proximal rs1800469 and rs2275888 eQTLs
No full textBackground: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system inflammatory disorder with evidence of peripheral immune system dysregulation. Complex signaling interaction of immune cytokines transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) and interferon beta 1 (IFNB1) have been reported, but not fully defined in MS. Thus, we aimed to assess association of TGFB1 and IFNB1 mRNA expression with MS onset and phase of the disease. Additionally, we investigated the genetic basis of the two under-examined genetic variants, previously designated as eQTLs for TGFB1 (rs1800469) and IFNB1 (rs2275888), with MS occurrence and expression of investigated genes. Design: Study included 417 MS patients and 293 controls for genetic association and 71 MS patients and 101 healthy controls for gene expression analysis in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Analysis was performed using TaqMan® technology (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA, US). Results: We found significantly higher TGFB1 mRNA level in relapsing-remitting (RR) MS patients in comparison to the controls (P = 0.03). Relative IFNB1 mRNA levels in RRMS patients who were in relapse was significantly higher in comparison to those in remission (P = 0.03). A positive correlation of TGFB1 and IFNB1 mRNA levels was observed in MS patient's subgroups. Genetic variants did not affect MS occurrence or the gene expressions. Conclusions: Current findings provide important supplementary information about the association between TGFB1 and IFNB1 gene expression and MS. Cross-talk between TGFB1 and IFNB1 might be a modulating factor of inflammatory response in different phases of RR MS. These results need to be further replicated. © 2025 Elsevier B.V
Computational and experimental investigation of non-equimolar high-entropy diborides: structural, mechanical, and thermodynamic insights
No full textThis work presents the design, modeling, and experimental investigation of high-entropy diboride ceramics based on (TiZrHfNbTa)B2 with varying nonequimolar compositions. The study aims to understand the impact of different atomic ratios on the structural, energetic, and mechanical properties of high-entropy boride systems. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were performed using VASP with structural disorder modeled via the Special Quasirandom Structures (SQS) approach. Key parameters, such as formation energy, and vacancy formation energy were evaluated to identify the most stable compositions. Experimentally, three selected non-equimolar compositions were synthesized using boro/carbothermal reduction followed by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) at 1800–2000 °C [1]. Microstructural analysis was conducted using TEM and SEM, and mechanical properties—including hardness, Young’s modulus, and wear resistance—were assessed via nanoindentation and tribological testing. The combined theoretical and experimental results offer insight into the structure– property relationships of high-entropy diborides and support their potential application in extreme environments.Programme and the Book of Abstracts / 8th Conference of The Serbian Society for Ceramic Materials, 8CSCS-2025, June 14-16, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Proton-irradiated dox-loaded multi-walled carbon nanotubes: toward safer chemotherapeutic delivery
No full textThe clinical application of doxorubicin (DOX), a potent anticancer agent, is often restricted by its systemic toxicity. To address this limitation, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have emerged as promising nanocarriers due to their high surface area, stability, and potential for biodegradability. In this study, we explored the cytotoxic profile of DOX-encapsulated MWCNTs, both prior to and following proton irradiation at doses of 0.25, 1, and 3 Gy, using normal human fibroblast MRC-5 cells as a model system. The surface of MWCNTs was activated through acid oxidation, leading to the formation of carboxyl (-COOH) and hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups, enhancing their dispersibility and drug-binding capabilities. Structural and chemical characterization of the resulting MWCNTs-DOX composites was conducted via Xray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and fieldemission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The viability of MRC-5 cells treated with both non-irradiated and irradiated composites was assessed using the XTT assay after 24 h of exposure. Our findings indicate that MWCNT-based delivery notably mitigates the cytotoxic effects of DOX, even after exposure to proton radiation. However, radiation-induced, dose-dependent modifications in the MWCNTs' structure were observed, likely influencing functional group composition and potentially affecting composite stability and drug-carrier interactions. These results highlight the potential of MWCNTs as protective vehicles for chemotherapeutic agents, offering a promising strategy to enhance drug safety profiles and minimize collateral damage to healthy tissues during cancer treatment.Programme and the Book of Abstracts / 8th Conference of The Serbian Society for Ceramic Materials, 8CSCS-2025, June 14-16, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Theoretical insight into structural and mechanical features of Hf0.5Ta0.5C
No full textTantalum carbide (TaC) and hafnium carbide (HfC), as well as mixed hafnium tantalum carbides, are of great recent scientific and industrial interest due to their structural features, and thermal, elastic, and mechanical properties. In order to identify the possible crystal structure candidates in the Hf0.5Ta0.5C system that are (meta)stable for different pressures, a global search was performed on the energy landscape of the system. The structure candidates obtained were further locally optimized on the DFT level, and the relaxed structures were crystallographically analyzed and compared. As a result, the experimentally observed rock salt phase was found as a global minimum, and an additional dozen feasible modifications of Hf0.5Ta0.5C were predicted. Besides the experimentally observed NaCl-type structure, various distorted versions of this structure type were found, as well as modifications exhibiting the NiAs-, ortho-, and 5-5-type of structure. Furthermore, mechanical properties including bulk, shear, Young’s moduli, elastic constants, and the Vicker´s hardness were computed for all promising predicted structure candidates. We believe that the present results will help in understanding the structure-property relationship in mixed HfC/TaC systemsProgramme and the Book of Abstracts / 8th Conference of The Serbian Society for Ceramic Materials, 8CSCS-2025, June 14-16, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Electrocatalytic performance and structural features of a Pd-decorated multiphase composite electrod
No full textThis study investigates the one-step synthesis and characterization of a palladium (Pd)-decorated multiphase composite (TiN/Ti1.886O3/MgTiO3/Mg2TiO4), denoted as Pd@MPC. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the presence of TiN, a highly conductive ceramic, which enhances the electron conductivity of the composite, while the inclusion of magnesium titanium oxides (MgTiO3 and Mg2TiO4) provides structural robustness and improved corrosion resistance. These properties make Pd@MPC a promising electrode material for electrochemical sensors, where long-term stability and reliable performance are essential. XRD results further indicate that Pd nanoparticles do not significantly alter the bulk structure of the composite but rather enhance its surface properties, thereby preserving structural integrity while improving catalytic activity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses corroborate the XRD findings. The observed granular morphology suggests a high surface area, crucial for electrocatalytic performance, while the smooth surface of the Pd-decorated composite indicates a uniform distribution of Pd nanoparticles. This uniformity plays a key role in enhancing electrochemical detection of pesticides such as dicamba (DIC) and 2,4-D by facilitating electron transfer kinetics, increasing the number of active catalytic sites, and improving overall electrochemical response. EDX analysis confirms the successful incorporation of Pd, with a relatively high content (8.1%), further reinforcing its catalytic efficiency in oxidation reactions. Electrochemical performance was evaluated using the Pd@MPC/GC electrode in a K₄[Fe(CN)₆] redox system, demonstrating superior electrocatalytic activity compared to a commercial glassy carbon electrode. The composite was tested as a voltametric sensor for determination of DIC and 2,4 D pesticides. Oxidation peaks for DIC and 2,4-D were observed at +0.9 V and +1.3 V vs. SCE, respectively. The results highlight the strong influence of pH on signal-to-noise ratio, with optimal analytical performance achieved at pH 2.0 and a detection limit of 3.03 ng/mL. These findings confirm that Pd@MPC is a highly promising material for highperformance electrochemical sensors, offering a unique combination of structural stability, conductivity, and catalytic activity.Programme and the Book of Abstracts / 8th Conference of The Serbian Society for Ceramic Materials, 8CSCS-2025, June 14-16, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Effects of chemical corrosion on basalt based glass-ceramic composites
No full textA basalt-derived glass-ceramic was developed using the volume crystallization method to assess its chemical durability in aggressive environments. The material was synthesized by melting natural basalt rock, followed by controlled crystallization to form a dense, homogenous microstructure. Chemical resistance was evaluated by immersing samples in aqueous solutions at pH 3, 7, and 12 for exposure times of 2, 6, 12, 20, and 30 h. Elemental leaching was quantified using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis. Across all pH conditions, leaching levels remained extremely low or below detection limits, indicating exceptional chemical stability. At both acidic (pH 3) and neutral (pH 7) conditions, no significant changes in elemental concentrations were observed over time. While elevated sodium levels were detected at pH 12, this was attributed to external contamination from sodium-based laboratory glassware, rather than degradation of the sample itself. These results demonstrate the high resistance of the basalt glass-ceramic to chemical attack, highlighting its potential for applications in chemically aggressive or long-term service environments.Programme and the Book of Abstracts / 8th Conference of The Serbian Society for Ceramic Materials, 8CSCS-2025, June 14-16, 2025, Belgrade, Serbia
Impact of Chronic Mild Stress on memory and JAK/STAT and NF-κB Pathways in WKY Rats as an animal model of treatment-resistant depression
No full textBelgrade Neuroscience Next Hub 2025 with international participation February 27, 2025. Belgrade, Serbia
The Effects of Alfaxalone on Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration in the Cortex of Female APP knock-in mice
No full textBelgrade Neuroscience Next Hub 2025 with international participation February 27, 2025. Belgrade, Serbia