Epidemiological studies on the heavy and toxic metal content in the human blood and hair of some smokers from Saudi Arabia were carried out by modern analytical techniques. The levels of some selected heavy and toxic metals (e.g.; Hg, Pb, Cd, As, Se, Mn, Zn, Ni, and Cr) were determined using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES). Prior to the analysis, the blood and hair samples of Saudi Arabia smokers were collected, treated, and digested by microwave digestion system. The number of cigarettes per day as well as the smoking period was taken in consideration in this study. The tested elements concentrations in the investigated smoker blood and hair samples were compared with those obtained from some nonsmoking control samples. The samples were collected from the psychiatric hospital in Taif city after issuing the ethical committee license in this regard. The results obtained from this study represent a very important guide for the antismoking organizations. The assessment of some side effects of the smoking in such studies presents vital challenge for the social antismoking authorities and the stakeholder governments to attain the sustainable investment for their people.

Background: Dietary supplements (DSs) are widely used to complement diets, particularly among individuals with specific nutritional needs. While DSs can promote health and prevent disease, improper use may lead to adverse effects or medication interactions, highlighting the need for safe, informed consumption. This study assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to DSs in Western Saudi Arabia, providing insights into national consumption patterns. Method: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. A 28-item questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding DSs was administered. Participants aged 18 years and older residing in the study regions were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 22 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: A total of 1006 participants completed the survey, with 70.5% (n = 709) reporting DS use. Most respondents were female (71.8%) and 34.3% were aged between 18 and 30 years. Although 82.5% were aware of DSs, only 41% knew the correct dosages, and 30.3% expressed uncertainty about DS safety. About 28.1% of DS users experienced side effects. Multivitamins were the most commonly used DS type (44.9%), followed by mono-vitamins (39.9%) and minerals (7.5%). The primary motivations for DS use were health improvement and ensuring adequate nutrition (66%), while 20% used DSs to address specific deficiencies. Most participants sourced DSs from pharmacies (85.5%), and 46.6% relied on the internet for information. Significant differences in DSs use were observed based on gender and age (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread use of DSs, with significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning dosage and safety. Associations between DS use and demographic factors indicate that public health strategies should address these variables. Targeted education and clear guidance on safe DS use are essential for promoting informed consumption and reducing potential health risks.

Preparation, characterization, and application of a novel coated graphite rod thorium selective electrode based on thorium 8-hydroxyquinolate [thorium oxinate, Th(C9H6NO)4.2H2O] complex ionophore as a sensing material, dioctylphthalate (DOP) as a solvent mediator, and PVC as a matrix have been developed. The coated graphite rod electrode exhibits a linear Nernstian response over the concentration range 5x10^-6 - 1x10^-1 mol l^-1 of Th(IV) ions, with a calibration slope of 15.5 ± 0.5 mV/concentration decade and a detection limit of 1.6x10^-6 mol l^-1. It has a fast response time and can be used for a period of two months without any divergence in potentials. The proposed electrode reveals a good selectivity for Th(IV) cation over a varity of other cations and could be used in the pH range of (3 - 5). The sensor was successfully applied in the determination of thorium in real (monazite sand) sample. The average recovery obtained is ranging from 97.0 to 93.4% with standard deviation of 1.5% (n=8).

A first step towards the fabrication and electrochemical evaluation of thin-filmmicrosensors based on organic PVC membranes for the determination of Hg(II), Cd(II),Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions in solutions has been realised. The membrane-coating mixture used inthe preparation of this new type of microsensors is incorporating PVC as supporting matrix,o-nitrophenyloctylether (o-NPOE) as solvent mediator and a recently synthesizedHg[dimethylglyoxime(phene)]²⁺ and Bis-(4-hydroxyacetophenone)-ethylenediamine aselectroactive materials for Hg(II) and Cd(II), respectively. A set of three commercialisedionophores for Cd(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) has been also used for comparison. Thin-filmmicrosensors based on these membranes showed a Nernstian response of slope(26-30 mV/dec.) for the respective tested cations. The potentiometric responsecharacteristics (linear range, pH range, detection limit and response time) are comparablewith those obtained by conventional membranes as well as coated wire electrodes preparedfrom the same membrane. The realisation of the new organic membrane-based thin-filmmicrosensors overcomes the problem of an insufficient selectivity of solid-state-based thin-film sensors.