Macrophytes are important elements of aquatic ecosystems that grow in or near water. Their taxonomic composition, species diversity, depth, and density are indicators of environmental health; as such, Macrophytes are used to assess the ecological status of water bodies. Under the aim of assessing the ecological status of the Klina River in Kosovo, a survey was conducted at eight sampling sites along the river course to analyze macrophyte composition, diversity, density, and cover. Three samples were collected at each sampling site from early June to late September. The following macrophyte indices were used to assess the ecological status of the river: Macrophyte Index for Rivers (MIR), River Macrophyte Nutrient Index (RMNI), and River Macrophyte Hydraulic Index (RMHI). Our sampling area included the upper reaches of the river where no organic pollution was detected (oligotrophic), the middle reaches where polluted water from farms is discharged into the river, and the lower reaches characterized by heavy organic pollution from settlements and various industrial activities. There is a positive correlation (p < 0.05) between water temperature, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), orthophosphates (PO₄³⁻), ammonia (NH₄⁺), nitrites (NO₂⁻), calcium (Ca²⁺), and potassium (K+) with plant density, RMNI, RMHI, EQR-RMNI, EQR-RMHI, and MIR. Sodium (Na+) has stronger positive correlation (p < 0.01) with RMNI and RMHI indices and negative correlation with EQR-RMNI and EQR-RMHI. Our results show that ecological status along the river varies from high and good upstream to poor, bad, and moderate running downstream.

The concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, nickel, and chromium in samples of sediment, water, and Typha angustifolia plants in the stream of the Drenica River were determined to assess the level of pollution. According to sediment analysis results from seven locations, the concentrations of Cu, Ni, Zn, and Cr exceeded the permitted limits according to WHO standards from 1996. In the plant samples, the concentrations of Cd and Pb were above the allowed limits according to GD161 and ECE standards, and according the WHO standard, the water quality in the Drenica River is classified into the first, second, and third quality categories. The results of this study show the bioaccumulation coefficient in Typha angustifolia plants, and it was found that the most bioaccumulated of the metals is Cd, with a bioaccumulation coefficient (BAF) greater than 1. The pollution load index (PLI), enrichment factor (EF index), Geoaccumulation index (Igeo), potential ecological risk factor (Eif), and potential ecological risk index (RI) were used in combination to assess the degree of pollution and the environmental risk presented to the freshwater ecosystem of the Drenica River. The results show that the Drenica River is mainly polluted by Ni, Cu, and Cr, reflecting substantial impacts of anthropogenic activities, including sizeable industrial effects, the development of urbanism, agricultural activities, and the deposition of waste from a ferronickel factory in the area.

The physicochemical parameters of water play an important role in determining aquatic life and its development. In this study, the water quality index is used in order to assess the water quality in river Lepenci River. For the calculations of this index, eighteen physicochemical parameters were...

Study aim(s): This paper aims to examine and analyze the impact of Snus use in sports, with a particular focus on football players. It explores the effects of Snus on health and athletic performance, delving into its physiological impact and contributing to discussions on sports ethics. Given the rising use of Snus in football, this study seeks to provide a broader understanding of its influence on physical, psychological, and social aspects. Methods: This study is a systematic review conducted following the PRISMA model standards. The initial search yielded 2657 papers from PubMed and 654 from Scopus. Through a rigorous elimination process based on PRISMA criteria, the selection was narrowed down to 17 papers from PubMed and 7 from Scopus for analysis. Results: The reviewed literature indicates that Snus use in sports poses risks to athletes’ health, including addiction, cardiovascular disease, and oral health issues. While some players use Snus to enhance concentration and manage stress, studies reveal that it offers no lasting benefits. Additionally, its use may set a harmful example for young athletes. Therefore, sports organizations must promote health awareness and educate athletes about these risks. Conclusion: Although some athletes use Snus for concentration and stress management, there is no solid evidence of actual performance benefits. Moreover, its use carries serious health risks, including addiction, cardiovascular issues, and oral health damage. In conclusion, more detailed studies are needed to understand its long-term effects. Notably, Snus is banned by WADA.