Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University, School of Public Affairs: Digital ScholarshipNot a member yet
21372 research outputs found
Sort by
Using t he Carbon Atom Method t o Determine Mean Oxidation Number o f Organic Carbons
Full text linkThe notion of oxidation number acting as an electron-counting concept is crucial for balancing redox reactions, and for understanding organic and biological redox conversions. Chemical formula methods are widely used for counting oxidation numbers. There are three types of chemical formula methods. They are molecular formula method, structural formula method, and Lewis formula method. Each type has its own rules and procedures, and they are difficult for students to fully understand and remember. In addition, the capability of the molecular formula method to assign mean oxidation number of organic carbons for organic molecules or molecular ions is limited. To overcome these drawbacks, this article explores a new half reaction approach, the carbon-atom method, which can count the mean oxidation number of organic carbons for both organic and bioorganic compounds. The quantitative relationships among the number of transferred electrons, change in oxidation numbers of organic carbons, and mean oxidation number of organic carbons can also be established by balancing half organic reactions. Furthermore, the mean oxidation number of organic carbons for any given organic or bioorganic compounds with known structural formulas can be determined by using the carbon-atom method and the fragmentation operation
Simple mathematical equations for calculating oxidation number of organic carbons, number of transferred electrons, oxidative ratio, and mole of oxygen molecule in combustion reactions
Full text linkThe oxidation number and number of transferred electrons are two paramount parameters in the study of redox reactions. Their calculations are both important and challenging. The oxidation number of organic carbons is used in organic chemistry, biochemistry, and applied chemistry. Combustion reaction is a classical type of redox reaction, in which the oxygen molecule (O2) is the oxidizing agent. In this article, the integration of three sets of relations is explored by using the method of balancing organic combustion: (i) number of transferred electrons and oxidation number of organic carbons, (ii) mole of oxygen molecule and number of transferred electrons, and (iii) oxidative ratio, oxidation number of organic carbons, and number of transferred electrons. This method can also establish the relationships among the stoichiometric coefficients, mole of oxygen molecule, oxidative ratio, number of transferred electrons, and oxidation number of organic carbons. Furthermore, the oxidation number of organic carbons and the number of transferred electrons of a given organic compound can be determined by the derived mathematical equations
The Effect Of Demographic Characteristics On The Mathematics Performance Of Middle School Students On A Standardized Examination
Full text linkThe purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the demographic characteristics of middle school students on their mathematics performance on the STAAR examination. More specifically, this study examined the effect of the variables gender, ethnicity, and at-risk status, separate and collectively, on the four mathematics components (numerical representation and relationships, computations and algebraic, geometry and measurement and data analysis and personal financial literacy) of the STAAR’s examination among middle school students. Additionally, a 2x2x3 factorial design was used in the students. Two hundred forty (240) eighth-grade students enrolled in middle schools in the southern region of the United States. The data analysis for this study was accomplished through the application of the Three-Way Analysis of Variance and the Scheffé Multiple Comparison Statistical techniques. All four hypotheses were tested at the .05 level. From the results, this study concludes that eighth-grade students who did not receive a free lunch possessed significantly higher mathematics scores in all sections of the STAAR’s examination than those eighth-grade students who received a free lunch. Female middle school students performed academically better than their male peers on the geometry, measurement and computations, and algebraic sections of the STAAR’s examination. Male, and female middle school students scored similarly on the numerical representation and relationship section as well as the data analysis and performed financial literacy section on the STAAR’s examination. High-income students tend to do significantly better in mathematics on the state’s standardized examination than low-income students
Occurrence Of Emerging Contaminants In Greater Houston Watersheds, Risk Assessment, And Toxicological Effects
Full text linkRapid industrialization and urbanization within the Greater Houston area have driven a surge in anthropogenic activities that affects the burgeoning population. This region stands as one of the most densely inhabited metropolises in the United States, experiencing a substantial population growth of 9.8% from 2010 to 2020, with the population expanding from 5.92 million to 7.14 million. This population boom has been accompanied by an increased reliance on modern conveniences, leading to escalated production and utilization of chemicals such as personal care products, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and heavy metals, all of which pose potential threats to the environment. Although these products are discharged daily in minimal concentrations, there exists a possibility of their interaction with our food sources and biological systems, potentially inducing adverse health effects. Consequently, there is a growing awareness and concern regarding their impact. The primary recipients of these contaminants are the tributaries that flow into the Galveston Bay/Gulf Coast, significantly influencing water quality in the region. The potential adverse effects of these contaminants on humans, the human environment, and the ecosystem encompass a spectrum from acute to chronic and merit significant attention. Given the complex network of bayous draining the Greater Houston area, this study assessed the concentrations of heavy metals and selected Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) within nine bayous and Galveston Bay. The study zones encompass the Buffalo Bayou Watershed, San Jacinto River Watershed, Clear Creek River Watershed, Galveston Bay, and other areas featuring parks and reserves utilized for recreational activities. The study aims include (1) characterizing the presence of commonly used PPCPs, as well as heavy metals in water, sediment, and fish samples obtained from the study areas; (2) evaluating the potential risks associated with the presence of these contaminants; and (3) investigating the effects of these contaminants at environmentally relevant concentrations on biomolecular regulation in rat pituitary cells. All samples were systematically collected from the identified watersheds, carefully stored, and processed in accordance with EPA standard protocols, with minor adjustments as needed. Heavy metal analysis was conducted using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), while the analysis of PPCPs was performed using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Following quantification, comprehensive cellular studies using rat pituitary cells in culture were carried out, using the detected concentrations of PPCPs over a specified duration. Subsequent assays were performed to scrutinize dysregulated parameters and the mechanisms of dysregulation. The result of this study shows the presence of heavy metals both in water and sediment samples, with the exceptions of Cr and Zn in a few locations. Of particular concern is the presence of As at concentrations ranging from 0.90 ± 0.04 to 2.74 ± 0.17 μg/L in all water samples, surpassing the EPA criteria for human health protection of 0.02 μg/L. PPCPs like antibiotics and antihypertensive drugs were detected at significantly higher concentrations compared to other PPCP classes in all sample matrices, because of their widespread usage. In the health risk assessment, Cr exhibited noncancer and cancer risk values exceeding acceptable limits for oral and dermal exposure to sediment from many locations, with a particular focus on the vulnerability of children. The assays conducted using rat pituitary cell lines revealed intricate and time-dependent effects of PPCPs on cell proliferation and cytotoxicity were observed, emphasizing the importance of considering exposure duration and compound-specific responses. Furthermore, PPCPs displayed variable effects on key hormone levels within rat pituitary cells, with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) exhibiting dose and time-dependent dysregulation. The effects of these chemicals on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in the cells revealed substantial dysregulation of this second messenger, particularly evident in studies involving endocrine disrupting chemicals. These results highlight the intricate characteristics of newly emerging contaminants in interacting with biological systems, emphasizing the pressing requirement for robust regulatory and environmental management approaches. These measures are crucial for safeguarding public health and minimizing the detrimental impacts of contamination in these ecosystems
Discovery of OJT009 as a Novel Inhibitor of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection for Potential Treatment Of C0VID-19
Full text linkThe emergence of deadly SARS-CoV-2 variants with mutations in the viral genes has made it more imperative to discover therapeutics that target the host receptors for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) treatment. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) binds to host ACE2 receptor, facilitating viral entry (Jackson, 2022). The Interaction between ACE2 and the RBD region of Spike protein is the most crucial step in the viral life cycle. Therefore, the ACE2- RBD interaction has remained a key target for therapeutics in COVID19 treatment. Therefore, our research has targeted this interaction to prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into the human cells. ACE2, a key component of the Renin-Angiotensin system, normally converts Angiotensin II (Ang II) to Angiotensin 1-7, which has potent vasopressor effects. Despite ACE2\u27s role in facilitating viral entry, it also plays a defensive role against acute lung injury. This highlights the importance of carefully modulating the ACE2/Ang 1-7 pathway to mitigate lung damage caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is crucial to strike a balance between viral entry and preserving the protective functions of the ACE2/Ang 1-7 pathway to minimize SARS-CoV-2-induced lung injuries. we discovered that OJT009 targets the interaction between RBD and rhACE2 by binding to the exopeptidase site of rhACE2 Our findings reveal that the binding of OJT009 to rhACE2 inhibits its exopeptidase activity at high concentrations, but further investigations through western blot analysis and semi quantitative RT-PCR show that it does not affect rhACE2 protein and gene expression and those same concentrations. Additionally, it has the potential to mitigate non-target cardiac toxicities that have been observed with other drugs that modulate ACE2. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that OJT009 effectively inhibits the cellular entry and subsequent replication of both SARS-CoV-2 and the B.1.617.2 Delta Variant, as evidenced by three distinct assays: the Infection Induced Cytopathic Effect (CPE), Nanoluciferase reporter assay (NLRV), and Pseudotyped Lentiviral assay. Also, through molecular dynamic simulation and the analysis of best-fit docking complexes, we have elucidated the binding sites of OJT009 and examined its molecular interactions with both host and viral receptors. Based on our findings, OJT009 presents a whole new potential pharmacophore for preclinical drug development against SARS-CoV-2 infection
Automation in Aviation: An Advancement or Hindrance to Aviation Safety?
Full text linkTransportation at large is becoming increasingly automated, and aviation has often been at the forefront of this technological movement. Automation’s presence in the cockpit has been quite advantageous by improving economics, enhancing safety, and arguably reducing workload. However, its implementation has also presented several challenges, including but not limited to complacency and overreliance on automation, manufacturer design errors, and automation surprise. To overcome these challenges and mitigate safety issues preemptively, methods and strategies must be devised to improve the implementation of automation in aviation. Upon review of eight case studies from accident reports where the use of automation was a contributing factor, several recommendations were developed to improve the implementation of automation in aviation. Airline operators should encourage the use of manual flying skills when applicable and ensure that crews are competently educated and trained on automated systems. Manufacturers on the other had should increase the collaboration during the design phase with both the end user and regulatory agency, strengthen the utilization of the Human Centered Approach to systems integration and improve Human Factors and Ergonomics studies for instrumentation to improve ease of use for pilots. As the world becomes more technologically advanced, the delicate relationship between man and machine must be carefully managed
Defining Public Transit Purpose and Need for Rural and Interstice Communities
Full text linkThis thesis seeks to answer the research question; can one measure of social equity be a measure comparing socio-demographic variables of vulnerable communities with their county peers? If so, what benefits can public transportation bring to the rural communities? To answer the aforementioned research question, a study is conducted on the rural areas of the Texas Triangle along Interstate Highway 10 (IH 10) from Houston to San Antonio. Block groups located within five miles from the centerline of IH 10 are pulled and their poverty rate data are analyzed. A poverty index is calculated based on vulnerability variables which are female head of household, non-English speaking family, senior citizens, and zero automobile ownership. If a block group has higher poverty rate than that of the Texas poverty rate of 15.9 percent, that block group is considered a vulnerable block group. The study found that the socio-demographic index can be used to express the purpose and need of public transportation. And the research concluded that a better public transportation system in the vulnerable block groups will enable the communities to address the challenges of their essential needs such as access to grocery stores, medical facilities, educational institutions, and employment opportunities
A Case Study on Examining Systemic African American Poverty in Caddo Parish and Bossier Parish, Louisiana
Full text linkThere are many states, counties, and cities in the United States of America where people do not have access to basic necessities such as food, housing, proper medical facilities, access to schools, and ready or no transportation, etc. The reason for this situation is due to the issue of poverty. Poverty is an unacceptably low-standard way of life that is a complex human phenomenon. It has multiple causes, manifestations, and dimensions. (Odhiambo, Omiti, Muthaka, 2005) Caddo Parish, Louisiana, is such a place that has high poverty among Black people. The population of African American people in Caddo Parish is larger than the Whites who live there, and African American poverty has more than doubled the White residents. African American poverty in Caddo Parish is higher than the poverty average in the State of Louisiana and is higher than the United States average. The neighboring parish of Bossier is experiencing the same issue as the African Americans in Caddo Parish. Caddo and Bossier Parishes connect by their two largest cities in the parishes, which is named the Shreveport-Bossier City Metropolitan area. Both cities’ poverty level amongst Black people is higher than the United States National Average. This case study explores and argues how systemic racism has blended into urbanization, sprawl, and politics. The research explores how these factors cause poverty in the Black community and has plagued their progress from the colonization of Louisiana through the American Civil War to the present time in Caddo Parish, Louisiana. Dr. Robert Bullard mentions that “racism is and continues to be a conspicuous part of the American sociopolitical system. As a result, Black people in particular, and ethnic and racial minority groups of color, find themselves at a disadvantage in contemporary society. (Bullard, 1994, p. 445) The factor of poverty has caused population change in Shreveport and Bossier City. Shreveport has seen a population decline, whereas Bossier has seen an increase in population. However, Caddo Parish still has a larger population. (Bayliss, 2019) African American homeownership is low considering the heavy populations of these people in the Shreveport-Bossier City area and is disproportionate to the White residents. This study will examine housing discrimination in these areas because housing discrimination denies a substantial segment of the African American community a basic form of wealth accumulation and investment through homeownership. (Bullard, Johnson, Torres, 2000) There are development plans to make the area a more attractive and dynamic location for corporate investments, expansions, and expansion for the future Shreveport-Bossier area. This development attempts to modernize the metropolitan areas’ environmental sustainability, neighborhoods, housing stock, infrastructure, and transportation. Further considerations include aiding with workforce training and business attraction through local organizations and the city’s programs. Eliminating cost-burdened, extremely cost-burdened residences and improving housing conditions for residents with housing maintenance issues are major concerns. The purpose of this case study is to shed light on the history of racism, bad politics, sprawl, spatial mismatch, lack of homeownership, population trends, transportation issues, lack of employment opportunities, high crime, bank deserts, health care, present Jim Crow Laws, and the miseducation of African Americans in Louisiana as these factors play on their social and economic place in Northwest Louisiana. The researcher will use qualitative research to answer questions with spatial and statistical analysis to provide visuals of the data collected on the census tracts. There will be some quantitative information within the qualitative findings. There will be some quantitative information within the qualitative findings. Researchers use qualitative research with some quantitative results because they consider both methods extremely effective for poverty analysis and give a more holistic view to a given study. (Odhiambo, Omiti, Muthaka, 2005) The purpose of this dissertation is to research and understand African American poverty in Caddo Parish, how they ended up in this predicament, and present solutions to rectify the situation. The adverse effects of Urbanization and Sprawl result in poverty. These harmful effects, including the study area, are frequently seen in the African American/Black community. Negative effects of urbanization can be a lack of resources, poverty, unemployment, and overcrowding. Furthermore, the migration from rural areas to metropolitan areas causes congestion that impedes growth and bolsters the negative issues from geographically concentrated poverty, such as crime and violence in Shreveport, LA. This study highlights Poverty, Education, Unemployment, Homeownership, and Renters and contrasts and compares variables in Caddo Parish to Bossier Parish with Black versus White residents with GIS Mapping. The GIS Mapping shows the disproportionate percentages in each factor for the Black population versus the White Population for both Caddo Parish and Bossier Parish, Louisiana. The project distinctively shows (1) inequity and inequality in homeownership, (2) The poor education and miseducation in the Louisiana school system, (3) How incarceration ratios are disproportionate, (4) The lack of employment opportunities in the area, (5) Inequity in public and personal transportation. Furthermore, the results show the negative effects of Black versus White birth rates, IRS inequalities, health care inequalities, and how the factors mentioned in this study are blended in racism, which have kept Blacks in poverty in Caddo Parish and Bossier Parish from the colonization of Louisiana to the last 30 years. Lastly, this study presents mapping, snapshots, and negative effects of food deserts, banking deserts, pay-day loan companies, eye-soar neighborhoods, non-walkable and non-bikeable communities, and lack of enough medical facilities in predominately Black neighborhoods in the study area. Despite the Civil Rights Movement and other Justice Movements, there are still disparities in wealth, employment, health care, education, laws, housing, transportation, poverty, and other factors. To bring change, urban planners and/or environmental justice activists must work diligently to overcome and subdue obstacles to create Smart Growth, Cleaner, Greener Communities, and Sustainable Communities while simultaneously promoting equality and eliminating inequities
Investigate Pilot-related Factors on Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) in General Aviation
Full text linkControlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) crash is defined as an unintentional collision with terrain (the ground, a mountain, a body of water, or an obstacle) while an aircraft is under positive control. It is one of three high-risk accident occurrence categories identified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Although advanced technologies have dramatically reduced the number of General Aviation CFIT crashes over the past 20 years, CFIT crashes continue to occur and at least half of them were fatal. Therefore, it is quite momentous to identify the contributing factors and recommend countermeasures to prevent or mitigate CFIT crashes. This research will utilize the General Aviation CFIT crash data collected from National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and pilots’ information from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to perform statistical analysis to re-veal the impacts of pilot-related contributing factors on the occurrence of CFIT crashes in General Aviation. Based on the analysis, technology-based and policy-level counter measures will be proposed to reduce the CFIT crashes in General Aviation. The research findings will help policymakers to better understand the underlying reasons for General Aviation CFIT crashes and update their current practices and regulations
Identifying the Geography of Opportunities for Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Full text linkMost historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are in metropolitan areas and operate as anchor institutions in predominantly minority-occupied neighborhoods (Wright, 2021). Because HBCUs are in the heart of diverse communities, their level of responsibility is automatically heightened solely because residents look to these cultural institutions to analyze and provide solutions for their neighborhoods’ unprioritized or neglected problems (Lowe & Shipp, 2014). In efforts to apply quantitative methods to assess social opportunity for HBCU neighborhood residents, I selected U.S. Census datasets to analyze as policy-relevant factors in R and use QGIS to investigate the geography of opportunities between 1990–2019 within a 1-, 3-, and 5-mile radius for 99 HBCU campuses. Findings from this research revealed more than 70% of 100 HBCUs had low opportunity between 1990–2019. The purpose of this research was to explore quantitative methods that could be applied to create an opportunity index to inform HBCU decision-makers and community stakeholders in need of community revitalization grant funding while planning for equitable neighborhood outcomes. This dissertation was the first of its kind to identify and illustrate the geographies of opportunities for accredited HBCUs. As an HBCU alum, I hope this dissertation will uncover quantitative methods that can be used to create sustainable community revitalization grantmaking policies that will bolster investment in and stabilization of HBCU neighborhoods without the consequences of gentrification