Procena sadržaja i raspodele teških metala u površinskom sedimentu akumulacije 'Barje' - Srbija

In this study, the nature of the association of heavy metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, Mn, and Zn) in sediments of the recent reservoir 'Barje' (Leskovac, Serbia) was investigated. The aim was to make the identification of their substrates, as well as to define the external factors (hydrological and anthropogenic affecting their distribution) which will contribute to a better understanding of the interactions that take place in the reservoir and predict the mobility of the investigated heavy metals. Chemical distribution of heavy metals was tested by using the method of sequential extraction and by data processing using statistical methods such as correlation, cluster and factor analysis. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that major substrates of heavy metals are in the residual immobile fraction (Fe, Zn and Ni). Since the accumulation has a small organic substance content, Fe and Mn oxides are the most important binding substrates of heavy metals. Although it was determined that lead and cadmium are of the carbonate nature, their concentrations in the reservoir are negligible.Cilj ovog rada je da se ispitivanjem prirode asocijacija teških metala (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, Mn, Zn) izvrši identifikacija njihovih supstrata u akumulaciji 'Barje' (Leskovac, Srbija), kao i da se definišu spoljni faktori (hidrološki i antropogeni koji utiču na njihovu raspodelu) što će doprineti boljem razumevanju interakcija koje se odigravaju u akumulaciji i prognozu mobilnosti na osnovu toga. Hemijska raspodela teških metala ispitana je korišćenjem metode sekvencijalne ekstrakcije i obradom dobijenih podataka statističkim metodama kao što su korelaciona, klaster i faktorska analiza. Na osnovu dobijenih rezultata može se zaključiti da se većina teških metala nalazi u rezidualnoj nepokretnoj frakciji (Fe, Zn i Ni). Zato što je u akumulaciji mali sadržaj organske supstance oksidi gvožđa i mangana su najznačajniji supstrati za vezivanje teških metala. Iako je utvrđeno da je olovo i kadmijum karbonatne prirode njihove koncentracije u akumulaciji su zanemarljivo male

Assessment of computed tomography simulators used in radiotherapy treatment planning in Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

The purpose of this work was to evaluate computed tomography simulators used in radio-therapy treatment planning in Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. A survey of quality assurance programmes of 24 computed tomography simulators in 16 facilities was conducted. A dedicated CT-to-ED phantom was scanned at 120 kV and 140 kV, to obtain CT-to-ED conversion curves as well as CTDIvol. Thoracal phantoms were scanned in the standard and extended field of view to evaluate the dosimetric effect on treatment planning and delivery. The mean age of the measured scanners was 5.5 years. The mean water HU value was –6.5 (all scanners, all voltages) and air HU value was –997. Extended field of view computed tomography data differ from the standard field of view and differences between conversion curves have significant dosimetric impact. The CTDI data showed a large range of values between centers. Better quality assurance of computed tomography simulators in all countries is recommended. The CT-to-ED curve could be used as default at one voltage and per manufacturer. Extended field of view imaging can be used, but treatment planning should be avoided in the regions out of the standard field of view

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Antenatal Corticosteroid Therapy—A Narrative Review of Fetal and Neonatal Outcomes

Background: There, we review the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), its influence on fetal physiology, and neonatal outcomes, as well as the usage of antenatal corticosteroid therapy (ACST) in pregnancies complicated by GDM. Methods: MEDLINE and PubMed search was performed for the years 1990–2022, using a combination of keywords on such topics. According to the aim of the investigation, appropriate articles were identified and included in this narrative review. Results: GDM is a multifactorial disease related to unwanted pregnancy course and outcomes. Although GDM has an influence on the fetal cardiovascular and nervous system, especially in preterm neonates, the usage of ACST in pregnancy must be considered taking into account maternal and fetal characteristics. Conclusions: GDM has no influence on neonatal outcomes after ACST introduction. The ACST usage must be personalized and considered according to its gestational age-specific effects on the developing fetus