Background: Cement production is a major industrial activity associated with environmental and occupational pollution, particularly through particulate matter and heavy metal emissions. Prolonged exposure to cement dust may result in systemic toxicity, including renal dysfunction. This study investigated the impact of cement factory exposure on renal biochemical parameters among factory workers and residents in Okpella, Edo State, Nigeria.Methods: A cross-sectional analytical design was employed. One hundred participants were recruited: 25 factory workers, 25 residents within 5 km of the factory, and 50 controls with no known exposure. Serum creatinine, urea, sodium, and potassium levels were measured. Data were analyzed using t-tests with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Cement workers exhibited significantly higher serum creatinine (1.3 ± 0.2 mg/dL) compared to controls (0.7 ± 0.2 mg/dL; p=0.01). Urea levels were elevated in workers (58.2 ± 5.6 mg/dL) relative to controls (46.2 ± 13.4 mg/dL; p=0.001). Serum sodium was significantly higher in workers (150.4 ± 10.6 mmol/L) than in controls (146.0 ± 4.7 mmol/L; p=0.001). Potassium levels were also increased in workers (4.5 ± 1.0 mmol/L) compared to controls (3.8 ± 0.3 mmol/L; p=0.004). Similar trends were observed among residents, though with less magnitude. Conclusion: Chronic exposure to cement factory emissions is associated with altered renal biochemical parameters, suggesting potential early renal impairment among workers and residents. Periodic medical screening, dust exposure reduction strategies, and environmental monitoring are recommended to mitigate renal health risks in industrial communities

In many developing countries, soil moisture data is often limited or unavailable. Stakeholders may use soil moisture data to monitor, detect and sometimes forecast agricultural droughts. Therefore, modelling soil moisture to identify and monitor droughts can benefit many countries, especially those whose economies depend heavily on agriculture. This study aimed to investigate historical soil moisture in Guyana from 1962 to 2016 using the JULES Model. The model utilized in-situ precipitation data from Georgetown, along with data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) for the study period. The results from the analysis of the historical soil moisture found that the soil moisture in the total column and at the various layers of soil was quite variable. Further, a clear relationship emerged between interannual climate variability and soil moisture trends. El Niño years were usually related with reduced soil moisture, indicating drier than average conditions, while the La Niña years displayed higher soil moisture content, reflecting wetter conditions. Based on the results obtained the model showed some skill in capturing soil moisture at different depths in the area of study. Hence, further studies using different soil types, vegetation structures, and land use practices should be considered to support Guyana’s agricultural sector.

This study presents an integrated geophysical, hydrogeological, and hydrochemical assessment of groundwater potentials in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of northern Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. An electrical resistivity survey was conducted at 39 locations to evaluate aquifer potentials using geoelectrical data. Hydrogeological assessments were carried out to determine aquifer parameters, while hydrogeochemical analyses used Piper trilinear diagrams, Gibbs cross plots and multivariate statistical techniques to assess groundwater quality and facies classification. The 3-layer model is characterized with top layer resistivity from 85.6 Ωm (VES 28) to 1104.9 Ωm (VES 27), layer thickness varied between 0.4 m (VES 1) and 14.3 m (VES 36). Underlying this is a layer of with resistivity values from 812.3 Ωm (VES 34) to 2910.7 Ωm (VES 18) with layer thickness from 9.7 m (VES 1) to 83.2 m (VES 28). Underlying this is a layer with resistivity in the range 102.5 Ωm (VES 18) to 2893 Ωm (VES 34) with unresolved layer thickness. Lithologically, the top layer does not constitute any water bearing medium with underlying layer of unresolved thickness having some conductive zones. The 4-layer geoelectric model has the first layer with thickness and resistivity from 0.8m (VES 10) to 7.3m (VES 26) and 9.2 Ωm (VES 3) to 2312.9 Ωm (VES 17). It is underlain by a layer with resistivity and thickness from 24.8 Ωm (VES 12) to 2943.1 Ωm (VES 32) and thickness 1.4m (VES 11) to 37.4 m (VES 25). The next layer with resistivity and thickness of 23.6 Ωm (VES 9) –4183.2 Ωm (VES 15) and 8.9m (VES 11) – 136.7.4m (VES 26). The fourth layer with unresolved thickness had resistivity values in the range 4.3 Ωm (VES 10) – 2218.0 Ωm (VES 37). Second, third and fourth layer constitutes the aquifers. The 5- layer geoelectric model has top layer with resistivity and thicknesses from 504.3 Ωm (VES 2) – 2315.2 Ωm (VES 21) and 0.6m (VES 6) – 1.7 m (VES 2). It is underlain by a resistive layer with resistivity and thickness from 64.4 Ωm (VES 2) – 412.6Ωm (VES 6) and 5.3m (VES 21) – 12.4 m (VES 2). Next is a conductive layer with resistivity and thickness of 281.7 Ωm (VES 2) – 1417 Ωm (VES 21) and 8.4m (VES 21) – 17.8 m (VES 2). This is underlain by a highly conductive layer having thickness from 48.6 m (VES 21) – 57.6 m (VES 6) and resistivity from 57.2 Ωm (VES 6) – 117.6 Ωm (VES 2). The fifth geoelectric layer with unresolved thickness had resistivity in the range 11.1 Ωm (VES 2) – 1205.5 Ωm (VES 21). The fourth and fifth layers constitute the aquifers. Thirty three (33) locations (VES 1,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,24,25,26,27,28,31,34,35,36,37 and 38 were identified as promising for groundwater development. Elevation and static water level mean values are 140.13±77.37m and 32.46±17.95m, respectively. The hydraulic conductivity K, averaged 13.28 m/day and the transmissivity T, range from 252.32-1932.24 m2/day (average 413.78 m2/day) for the study area. Groundwater reserves varied between 928.00 x 106 and 64178 x 106 m3 and regional groundwater flow direction is from North to South. Average Fe concentration of 1.67±0.10 mg/L exceeded MAL of 0.37 mg/L. Water is safe for irrigation uses. The hydrochemical facies is classified into 3 groups; the Ca-Mg-HCO3-Cl, Mg2++Ca2+-Cl-+HCO3- and Ca2+-Mg2+-SO42–HCO3-water types attributed to carbonate and magnesium weathering. Gibb`s diagram showed TDS as a function of Na+/(Na++Ca2+) and Cl-/(Cl-+HCO3-). Gibbs Cross plots based on chloroalkaline indices CA I and CAII showed forward ion exchange. Factor analysis and multivariate statistical analysis showed loadings suggestive of silicate and carbonate weathering. This study provides critical insights into groundwater suitability for domestic and agricultural uses to support sustainable water resource development given the complex geology of the study area. Preliminary geophysical investigations are recommended before borehole drilling to minimize failure risks.

Soil contamination by industrial pollutants poses a significant threat to soil health by altering its physical, chemical, and biological properties. While much attention has been, given to chemical and biological aspects, physical degradation remains less explored. This study assesses the impact of chemical pollution on the physical properties of irrigated meadow and meadow-alluvial soils in the industrial zones of the Navoi region, Uzbekistan. Soil samples were, systematically collected at distances ranging from 500 to 20,000 meters from major industrial sources, including the Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Combine (NMMC) and the Navoi Gas and Heat Power Plant Station (HS), and at three depth intervals: 0–5 cm, 5–30 cm, and 30–50 cm. Key physical parameters—bulk density, total porosity, particle size distribution, and micro-aggregate stability—were, measured following standardized procedures based on GOST 26213-91, ISO 11272:2017, and the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF). The findings revealed a consistent degradation trend in areas close to pollution sources. Bulk density increased to as high as 1.48 g/cm³, while total porosity declined to 41.91%, compared to values of less than 1.20 g/cm³ and over 50% porosity at control sites. Furthermore, a shift in mechanical composition was, observed with higher silt and clay fractions and reduced sand content, indicating enhanced compaction and reduced aeration. Micro-aggregate stability also decreased, reflecting structural breakdown at the surface layers. Spatial analysis showed that pollution effects were most pronounced topsoil and, diminished with greater depth and, distance from the source. These results demonstrate the critical role of physical indicators in the early detection of chemically induced soil degradation. The study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated soil monitoring and targeted remediation strategies to preserve soil health and ensure sustainable land use in industrially affected regions.

The influence of fire on the physiochemical properties of grassland soils varies with soil texture. Understanding the nutrient fluxes associated with such fires at different soil depths is important for maintaining soil ecosystem functions and processes as well as grassland aesthetics. The study focused on the post-fire burnt and unburnt lawn at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Soils were sampled in triplicates at the two sites with the aim of evaluating their physiochemical properties at 0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm depth. The results indicate that the unburnt soil was characterized by a sandy clay loam texture, good drainage, acidic, high soil organic matter content and low nutrient reserves. The post-fire burnt soil showed a significant decrease in silt (29%) content, and an increase in coarse sand (19%) content and saturated hydraulic conductivity (18%). Additionally, the burning increased soil C:N (51%) but reduced total N (18%) and soil acidity from 3.98 to 4.42 due to increased Ca2+ (38%) and the associated decrease in Al3+ (49%). The influence of grassland burning at the soil depths changed the sand, silt and clay content with a textural transformation to sandy loam at 0-15 cm depth. Soil available P decreased with soil depth, in addition to P addition (52%) at 0-15 cm depth. For reasons of climate change due to N loss from post-fire burnt soil, management of the grassland through burning should be avoided.

A study to ascertain the water quality and species composition of the aquatic insect of Eruvbi River flowing through Ekosodin Village, Nigeria was conducted between June and August 2009. Four locations were selected with physical and chemical parameters determined along with the insect fauna collected using general purpose net and sweep net; captured insects were identified and classified into taxonomic groups. The result obtained for the condition of the water revealed dissimilarities in all except pH and Total Dissolved Solids which were similar in all stations. A total of 311 individuals from 7 orders across 20 families and 27 taxa were encountered. The highest abundance in species and family was found in station 4 (110 and 18) while the least was found in station 1 (61 individuals) and station 3 (13 families). The dominant orders were Odonata, Diptera and Ephemeroptera in all stations. Trichoptera, Coleoptera. Hemiptera were subdominant while Plecoptera was scarcely found in stations 2 and 4. The diversity and biotic indices showed that the water had good quality, which was the inference from the abundance of indicator species denoting the water was free from pollution with the nature of the substratum and presence of aquatic macrophytes influencing the insect composition and diversity.

A study was conducted to assess the effect municipal solid waste (MSW) treatment methods on the growth and performance of amaranths (Amaranthus hybridus) in the Sudan Savannah of Nigeria. MSW were collected from different locations in Kano metropolis, mixed together and then subjected to different treatment methods (pyrolysis, composting and untreated). Products of this treatment methods were applied to soil at different rate of 0, 5, 10 and 15ton ha-1. Effect of MSW treatment methods on the performance of amaranths was assessed by sowing amaranths seed in the amended soil in field and pot trial phases using RCBD and CRD respectively. Result from plant trials shows significant differences (p≤0.05) on plant height and number of leaves with highly significant difference (p≤0.01) on leaf area of amaranths in the pot trial. Significant differences (P≤0.05) were observed on the number of leaves as well as fresh and dry weight of amaranths in the field trial. From the study, it was concluded that municipal solid waste treatment methods affect the growth and performance of amaranths. There was an observed significant increase in the performance of amaranths following biochar application. Untreated (raw) wastes are relatively easier and less expensive to be used but has less pronounced effect on plant growth when compared with the control treatment. The recommended treatment method for municipal solid wastes depends on the overall purpose of application. It is therefore recommended that stakeholders be involved in the recycling of municipal solid wastes through composting as that may reduce expenses for procurement of inorganic fertilizer and provide waste management solution as well as increased crop yield for small holder farmers.

Chotiari was a natural wetland before the construction of the reservoir. In 1994 wetland was converted into a reservoir to develop a water source for the people. But due to lack of proper attention this reservoir promoted waterlogging and salinity problems instead. The goal of this study is to investigate the variation that occurred on the land cover of the Chotiari wetland and surrounding area, before and after the construction of the reservoir. Satellite images of Chotiari reservoir and its buffer up to 5 km area of 1990 and 2019 were taken. The study was conducted at USPCASW (United States Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Water) Mehran University of Engineering and Technology Jamshoro. In the study, compositing was done by GIS (Geographical Information Systems) to join the bands of images of 1990 and 2019 for observing changes. After extracting the required shapefile of the Chotiari reservoir and its buffer, unsupervised classification was done for three classes: water, vegetation, and barren land. The difference in areas of water, vegetation, and barren land was calculated by superimposing both the images and joining all the bands of Landsat 5 image and Landsat 9 image. By comparing results of both years, a 12% increase in water availability was found whereas 8% and 4% net reduction was found in both vegetation and barren land, respectively. The main reason behind the increment of water quantity might be the construction of a reservoir. Moreover, it also affected the 5 km buffer area around the reservoir which resulted in a 9% reduction in water, 11% increment in vegetation, and 2% drop in the barren land.

The ability of humus to suppress the radioactivity of particular radionuclides that could be hazardous to soil health is examined in this review. Industrial and agricultural processes discharge radionuclides into the soil. This, in turn, has an impact on a variety of soil processes, particularly biological activities. The radioactivity of these radionuclides can be suppressed using humus, which is obtained through the decomposition process.

The experiment was conducted at the charland area of Jamalpur during rabi 2019 to know the suitable foxtail millet line/verity for water stress and increase production area of char land. Treatments included in the experiment were: ten different lines and one variety (BARI Kaon-1). T1 = RC-170, T2 = BD-869, T3= BD-954, T4= BD-972, T5= BD-998, T6= BD-1062, T7= BD-1075, T8= BD-1083, T9= BD-1086, T10= BD-1108 and T11= BARI Kaon-1. Considering some plant physiological and yield contributing characters such as effective tiller per hill, panicle length, days to harvest, root length, 1000 seed weight and yield all the foxtail millet lines/ varieties may be grown in rainfed condition especially in char land area.