4 publications
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Analytical Evaluation of heavy metals in eyeshadows: A Risk assessment and Implications for Public Health Regulatory Reforms in NigeriaBy Verla Evelyn Ngozi, Verla Andrew Wirnkor, Ekweogu Chinonye Victoria, Diagi Bridget Edewede, Aririguzo Bernadine Ngozi, Iwuoha Godson Ndubuisi
Abstract: This study employs advanced analytical techniques to assess heavy metal contamination (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Zn) in 18 commercially available eyeshadow products (local and imported) from Owerri Metropolis, Nigeria. Quantification was conducted using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), while risk evaluations incorporated chemometric modeling approaches. Results revealed significant contamination in locally manufactured brands, particularly those containing calabash chalk (Nzu) as a base ingredient. Lead and nickel concentrations reached 166.58 ± 6.5 …
Published in International Journal of Analytical and Applied Chemistry · Vol. 12, Issue 1, 2026 Read article →
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Unraveling the Health Risks of Microplastics in School Children Water Bottles: A Systematic ReviewBy Verla Evelyn Ngozi, Njoku Thony R.F, Martin C. Ekeh, Verla Andrew Wirnkor, Uche Cosmas Chinedu, Morah Arthur C., Uyo Chijioke Ndukwe, Ugwulor Louis Ukachukwu, Anyanwu Jonathan, Njoku-Obi Treasure Njideka
Abstract: Microplastics (MPs), pervasive environmental pollutants, pose escalating threats to human health, with children emerging as a critically vulnerable population. This systematic review, guided by PRISMA protocols, synthesizes evidence from 2015–2025 on MPs exposure risks from reusable plastic water bottles among school-aged children (4–15 years). Findings reveal significant MPs leaching into drinking water, influenced by bottle material such as PET and PP, usage duration, and cleaning practices. Children ingest an estimated …
Published in International Journal of Environmental Chemistry · Vol. 11, Issue 2, 2025 · pp. 20–35 Read article →
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Assessing trends in Speciation of First-Row Transition Metals in Children's Playgrounds of Owerri, NigeriaBy Verla Andrew Wirnkor, Ekweogu Chinonye Victoria, Diagi Bridget Edewede, Aririguzo Bernadine Ngozi, Iwuoha Godson Ndubuisi
Abstract: Chemical species of metals affect toxicity but trends of these metals species in soils are less studied. This study examined the trends and variability of species of metals in soils from playgrounds within Owerri. Eighty-one composite soil samples from nine playgrounds were collected in dry and rainy season to reflect spatio-seasonal variability. Samples were characterized by standard methods in triplicates and then extracted sequentially. Concentrations of metal species were determined …
Published in International Journal of Green Chemistry · Vol. 11, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 28–45 Read article →
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Dry Season Impact on Water Quality of Nworie River, Owerri, NigeriaBy Verla Andrew Wirnkor, Anyaorah Francis Chinonye, Shivani Sonkar, Ibe Valentine
Abstract: This study assessed the physicochemical properties and heavy metal contamination of Nworie River during the dry season. Fifteen composite water samples were collected from strategic points along the river. In-situ measurements of pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity were undertaken, while laboratory analyses determined heavy metal concentrations. Pollution Load Index and Contamination Factor were employed to evaluate the overall water quality and contamination levels. Results indicated moderate to high levels of …
Published in International Journal of Analytical and Applied Chemistry · Vol. 11, Issue 1, 2025 · pp. 40–49 Read article →