Reactions used for the synthesis of heavy and superheavy elements are analyzed within the framework of the dinuclear system concept. The important role of quasi- fission and the inner fusion potential barrier is emphasized. The results of calculation of the production cross sections for heavy and superheavy elements synthesized in cold and hot fusion reactions are given in comparison with experimental data. The minimum value of compound nucleus excitation energy is calculated for elements from 104 to 114, produced in cold fusion reactions. This article is a short survey of some results obtained by a group of physicists, using the dinuclear system concept.

PACS numbers: 25.70.Jj, 01.30.Ce