- Bike Rack Occupancy on the University of North Texas Campus
- This paper discusses research on bike rack occupancy on the University of North Texas (UNT) campus. Abstract: The presence of bike parking facilities has been shown to play a role in improving bike ridership. People are more likely to commute by bike if there are secure and well-located bike racks available. Within the last 5 years, the University of North Texas has made a concerted effort to improve the availability of bike parking for cyclists to encourage cycling as a commute mode. However, the placement of racks around campus has been based on perceived needs rather than documented patterns. The goal of the author's project is to document the occupancy rate of bike racks across campus to identify areas that were underserved. The author also examined how rack installation practices affected the maximum capacity of the racks and occupancy rates. The author found that overall the campus had a sufficient number of racks. However, a few areas on campus were underserviced, while in other areas, the racks were not being utilized. These patterns of use were linked to the types of buildings the racks were associated with, as well as where racks were placed and installed. The findings will allow the university to better plan where to target audiences. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86188/
- Death of a Mall: Exploring the rising boom of "green" outdoor shopping centers in North Texas: Is it fad or future?
- This presentation discusses research on the rising boom of outdoor shopping centers in North Texas. In this presentation, the authors give a brief history of traditional malls, explore the transition to outdoor centers, and look at new horizons for Dallas/Fort-Worth (DFW) shopping including smart growth, going "green" and other marketing buzzwords, and what LEEDs are. The authors also look at the future of DFW retail and present their conclusions. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86901/
- Dissolved Lithium Concentrations and Texas Suicide Mortality Rates 1980-1998
- This presentation discusses dissolved lithium concentrations and the spatial distribution of suicide mortality rates in Texas counties, from 1980-1998. The results suggest that counties with lower dissolved lithium concentrations in their groundwater had significantly higher suicide mortality rates. Counties with higher populations of Whites had significantly higher suicide mortality rates, but counties with higher populations of Hispanics had significantly lower suicide mortality rates. Males had higher suicide mortality rates than females. Further research into the relationship between lithium concentrations and suicide is warranted. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86930/
- Dissolved Lithium Concentrations, Gender, Race, and the Geography of Texas Suicide Mortality Rates 1980-1998: A Correlation Study
- This presentation discusses dissolved lithium concentrations and the spatial distribution of suicide mortality rates. Abstract: This study examines the spatial distribution of suicide mortality rates in Texas counties, from 1980 to 1998. Using the conceptual framework of disease ecology, this study provides insight into selected risk factors associated with suicide mortality. In particular, the factor of dissolved lithium concentrations in the groundwater and the correlation to suicide mortality rates are tested. Spearman's rank correlations and the Wilcoxon test are used to examine race, gender, and dissolved lithium concentrations as risk predictors of suicide mortality. The results suggest that counties with lower dissolved lithium concentrations in their groundwater had significantly higher suicide rates mortality rates. Counties with higher populations of Whites had significantly higher suicide mortality rates, but counties with higher populations of Hispanics had significantly lower suicide mortality rates. Males had higher suicide mortality rates than females. Further research into the relationship between lithium concentrations and suicide is warranted. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84332/
- The Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Texas in Ages 25-49 (1999-2010)
- This paper discusses research on the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Texas in ages 25-49. Abstract: According to the CDC, 63% of all new HIV diagnoses and 69% of all new AIDS diagnoses in 2009 were among the 25-49 year age group. While previous studies have examined the relationship between HIV/AIDS and a variety of socio-economic variables, no work has been done looking at this specific age group that constitutes a majority of new HIV/AIDS diagnoses in the recent past. Specifically, the author examines the relationships between HIV/AIDS outcomes in Texas and unemployment, education, income, and race/ethnic groups using data aggregated at the county level. Significant correlations where found between HIV/AIDS and unemployment, education, and race/ethnic groups. No significant association was found between HIV/AIDS and income. For future public intervention efforts targeting ages 25-49, a combination of variables, including unemployment, education, and race/ethnicity should be taken into consideration, rather than using only information on income. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84359/
- The Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Texas in Ages 25-49 (1999-2010)
- This presentation discusses research into the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in Texas. Specifically, the authors examine relationships between HIV/AIDS outcomes in Texas and unemployment, education, income, and race/ethnic groups using data aggregated to the county level. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93264/
- Evaluation Of WEPP For Runoff And Sediment Yield Prediction On Natural Gas Well Sites
- This article discusses the evaluation of WEPP for runoff and sediment yield prediction on natural gas well sites. Abstract: Natural gas exploration and production requires land-disturbing construction activities that have the potential to accelerate soil loss due to land cover modifications, increased slopes, and flow concentration. In the U.S., nearly 30,000 new gas wells are drilled each year. Erosion modeling has been successfully used for decades to predict soil loss and conservation effects on agricultural fields, rangelands, and forests, although much less research has been conducted on the application of erosion models for disturbed construction site conditions. The objective of this research was to evaluate Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) runoff and sediment yield predictions relative to measured data from two natural gas well sites (referred to as GW1 and GW2) in north central Texas. Model parameters were adjusted from WEPP default parameters based on available literature and model observations. A low effective hydraulic conductivity value (0.75 mm h⁻¹) resulted in successful runoff predictions. Agreement between predicted and measured sediment yields was accomplished by increasing rill and interrill erodibility values and decreasing critical shear stress values from default values. WEPP performance was evaluated with the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), root mean square error (RMSE)-observation standard deviation ratio (RSR), and percent bias (PBIAS), as well as modified versions of NSE and RSR that consider uncertainty in measured validation data. For GW1, NSE and RSR evaluation of WEPP performance was considered "good" for runoff (NSE = 0.68 and RSR = 0.56) and "satisfactory" for sediment yield (NSE = 0.63 and RSR 0.61). For GW2, NSE and RSR values were "very good" for runoff (NSE = 0.76 and RSR = 0.49) but "unsatisfactory" for sediment yield (NSE = 0.32 and RSR = 0.83). Use of modified NSE and RSR to consider measurement uncertainty improved model performance to "very good" for all instances. PBIAS values were relatively low and considered "very good" for GW1 and GW2 runoff and sediment yield predictions. These results demonstrate that WEPP can effectively model runoff and sediment yields from natural gas well sites, thus making it a useful tool for evaluating potential sediment impacts and management alternatives to minimize sediment yields from natural gas well sites. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc155619/
- Gastric Cancers in Texas: Are Nitrates the Problem?
- This presentation discusses research on gastric cancers in Texas. The study shows that in Texas, the relationship between nitrates and gastric cancer may not be as significant a factor as reported elsewhere. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86893/
- Gastric Cancers in Texas: Are Nitrates the Problem?
- This paper discusses research on gastric cancers in Texas. Abstract: Although in recent years the prevalence of gastric cancers such as stomach and esophageal have dwindled slightly due to changes in diet, gastric cancers remain the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Past studies have shown a positive relationship between gastric cancers and increased intake of nitrites and nitrates. This study examines the geography of gastric cancer mortality in Texas counties in relation to the median nitrate concentration of groundwater wells. In addition, the correlations of gastric cancer mortality and race/ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, rural-urban residence, and employment in agriculture and mining are also explored. Whereas no correlation was found between median nitrate concentration levels and gastric cancer mortality, significant correlations were found with percent Hispanic population, percent urban, and percent White population. The study shows that in Texas, the relationship between nitrates and gastric cancer may not be as significant a factor as reported elsewhere. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc94284/
- Geographic Distribution of HIV/AIDS in Texas
- This presentation is part of the faculty lecture series UNT Speaks Out on HIV/AIDS. This presentation discusses the geographic distribution of HIV/AIDS in Texas and the associated factors. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc71783/
- The Geography of Cerebrovascular Disease in Texas
- This paper discusses research on the geography of cerebrovascular disease (CVD) in Texas. Abstract: This study examines the spatial distribution of CVD mortality rates in Texas counties from 1999-2003. The human ecology model is used to see how CVD relates with selected variables, specifically how CVD mortality rates relate to aquifer water hardness using the Mann-Whitney U test and independent samples t-test. The results show that counties with higher water hardness levels have lower CVD mortality rates. Results for race/ethnicity suggest that African Americans are more vulnerable to the disease, whereas Hispanic American CVD mortality rates were much lower. For further research, it would be of paramount importance to closely examine the actual water consumed in Texas counties to probe more rigorously the relationship between aquifer water hardness and CVD mortality. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84370/
- Geography of Cerebrovascular Disease in Texas (CVD)
- This presentation discusses research on the spatial distribution of CVD mortality rates in Texas counties from 1999-2003. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86864/
- The Geography of HIV in Dallas County, Texas, 1999-2003
- This paper discusses research on the geography of HIV in Dallas County, Texas from 1999 to 2003. Abstract: HIV/AIDS has become a growing concern for major metropolitan areas in the United States such as Dallas, Texas. This research seeks to understand the spatial distribution of HIV in Dallas County zip codes and the factors associated with areas of high concentration. Zip code level reports of HIV/AIDS from the Texas Department of Health from 1999-2003 are used as the dependent variable. Education, ethnicity, and income data from the 2000 Census are used as explanatory variables with Spearman's rank correlation analysis. The results suggest that race/ethnicity, level of education, and income are significant determinants of the HIV rate in Dallas County. Neighborhoods with a higher percentage of African-American or Hispanic residents, a high percentage of the population with educational attainment of ninth grade or less, or a lower median household income tend to have higher HIV rates. Because HIV/AIDS is not uniformly distributed through zip codes in Dallas County, establishing a clear perception of risk areas for HIV in a large metropolitan area will ensure effective and efficient HIV prevention interventions. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84368/
- The Geography of HIV in Dallas County, Texas, 1999-2003
- This presentation discusses research on the geography of HIV in Dallas County, Texas from 1999 to 2003. Because HIV/AIDS is not uniformly distributed through zip codes in Dallas County, establishing a clear perception of risk areas for HIV in a large metropolitan area will ensure effective and efficient HIV prevention interventions. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86935/
- The Geography of HIV in Harris County, Texas, 1999-2003
- This paper discusses research on the geography of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Harris County, Texas from 1999-2003. Abstract: This research examines the geography of HIV in Harris County, Texas and the factors associated with areas of high prevalence. Zip code-level prevalence rates obtained from the Texas State Department of Health for 1999-2003 is the dependent variable, while education, race/ethnicity, and income taken from the 2000 Census are used as explanatory variables with Spearman's rank correlation analysis. The results suggest that race/ethnicity, level of education, and income have significant relationships with the HIV rate in Harris County Zip codes. Zip codes with a high percentage of African Americans, a high percentage of adults with an education level of eighth grade or less, and a high percentage of people with income below the poverty line, tend to have higher HIV rates. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86941/
- The Geography of HIV in Harris County, Texas, 1999-2003
- This presentation discusses research examining the geography of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Harris County, Texas and the factors associated with areas of high prevalence. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86876/
- Geography of Lung Cancer for Texas Counties, 1980-1998
- This presentation discusses research on the geography of lung cancer for Texas counties from 1980 to 1998. Research for this study includes examining census data from American Fact Finder, lung cancer data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), arsenic concentration data from the Texas Water Development Board, air pollutant data from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Spearman's Rank Correlation, and ArcMap GIS software. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86911/
- The Geography of Viral Hepatitis C in Texas, 1992-1999
- This paper discusses research on the geography of viral hepatitis C in Texas from 1992-1999. Abstract: This study examines the relationship between viral hepatitis C (HCV), race, gender, and population density in Texas counties. Previous studies related HCV rates to residence in urban areas, race, and gender as common risk markers. HCV morbidity rates in Texas counties from 1992 to 1999 were obtained from the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Race, gender, and population density data were extracted from the 2000 U.S. Census. Simple linear regression, Pearson's rank correlation, and Friedman's test were used for the analysis. The results indicated that population density was not a significant indicator of HCV rates, but race and gender were significant. For example, Black males have a much higher risk than White and Hispanic groups. Thus, HCV rates in Texas counties seem to be influenced not by urbanization, but by ethnicity and gender. Previously considered as having low risk for HCV, rural areas in Texas appear to have a higher risk than urban areas. Yet, the latter have been the main focus of previous intervention efforts. New intervention efforts in Texas must focus especially on minorities in rural areas. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84335/
- The Geography of Viral Hepatitis C in Texas, 1992-1999
- This presentation discusses research on a geography of viral hepatitis C in Texas from 1992-1999. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86873/
- HIV/AIDS Morbidity in Youths and Teens, Ages 13-24, in Texas Counties
- This paper discusses research on HIV/AIDS morbidity in youth and teens, age 13-24, in Texas counties. Abstract: HIV/AIDS has become a serious threat in Texas among youths and teens, and will continue to grow as a problem unless action is taken to prevent the spread of the virus. From 2002-2008, the HIV rate among youths and teens, ages 13-24, increased 38%, from 14.2 per 100,000 to 19.6 per 100,000 (Texas Department of State Health Services, 2010). Using case data provided by the Texas State Department of Health Services, this paper seeks to understand the spatial distribution of HIV/AIDS morbidity among youths and teens ages 13-24 and the variables that are significantly related to the disease. De-identified data on HIV/AIDS for Texas counties from 1999-2008 provided by the Texas State Department of Health are used as the dependent variable. Explanatory variables for this research include: race/ethnicity, level of education, percent urban population, socioeconomic factors, and prevalence of unsafe sex, which is provided by the 2000 U.S. Bureau of the Census and the 2010 County Health Ranking Texas data (Population Health Institute, 2011). Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient is used for statistical analysis. The results suggest that race/ethnicity, level of education, percent urban population, unsafe sex, and socioeconomic factors are significant determinants of the HIV/AIDS rate among youths and teens in Texas counties. Higher HIV/AIDS rates tend to appear in counties with high percent Black population, high percent urban population, high chlamydia rates, high percentage of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher, and high percentage of single-parent households. HIV/AIDS rates are not uniformly distributed across Texas, therefore ascertaining the significant correlations with high rates of the disease will ensure effective targeting of interventions. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc94269/
- HIV/AIDS Morbidity in Youths and Teens, Ages 13-24, in Texas Counties
- This presentation discusses research on HIV/AIDS morbidity in youth and teens, age 13-24, in Texas counties. Explanatory variables for this research include: race/ethnicity, level of education, urban populations, socioeconomic factors, and unsafe sex, which is provided by the 2000 Census and the 2010 County Health Ranking Texas Data with Spearman's Rank Correlation Analysis. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93258/
- Lignite Deposits and Kidney and Renal Pelvic Cancers in Texas 1980-1998
- This paper discusses research on lignite deposits and kidney and renal pelvic cancers in Texas from 1980 to 1998. Abstract: Kidney and renal pelvic cancers are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Texas. According to the National Cancer Institute's (2007) state cancer profiles, Texas ranked second nationwide in the incidence of kidney and renal pelvic cancer and the presence of Pliocene lignite deposits. This study investigates the relationship between the presence of Pliocene lignite deposits and age-adjusted mortality rates for kidney and renal pelvic cancers, defined as ICD189.0 and ICD189.1, respectively, in Texas from 1980 to 1998. Age-adjusted mortality rates for kidney and renal pelvic cancers are above average in Texas counties that contain lignite deposits. This study also probes the role of such factors as race, gender, and socioeconomic status on mortality rates for these cancers. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc94283/
- Lignite Deposits and Kidney and Renal Pelvic Cancers in Texas 1980-1998
- This presentation discusses research on lignite deposits and kidney and renal pelvic cancers in Texas from 1980 to 1998. Age-adjusted mortality rates for kidney and renal pelvic cancers are above average in Texas counties that contain lignite deposits. The research study also probes the role of such factors as race, gender, and socioeconomic status on mortality rates for these cancers. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86870/
- NAGPRA Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act: The Law and Ethics of the Kennewick Man Controversy
- This presentation discusses research on the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and the law and ethics of the Kennewick Man. On the bank of the Columbia River in 1996, the remains of a Native American man were found and dated to 9,300 years ago. NAGPRA mandates that tribes be notified when Native American remains are found. Tribes were not notified of these remains; however the remains were found to be "culturally unaffiliated". The remains are currently being stored at the Burke Museum, after the courts ruled against the Utamilla tribe. This presentation discusses these remains and examines the legal factors and legislation on remains. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86921/
- Nitrate and Chloride Concentrations in Groundwater beneath a Portion ofn the Trinity Group Outcrop Zone, Texas
- This article discusses nitrate and chloride concentrations in groundwater beneath a portion of the Trinity Group outcrop zone in Texas. Using a geographic information system and statistics, the author evaluated spatial distributions of nitrate and chloride concentrations in groundwater in an area of north-central Texas with agricultural activity, in addition to oil and natural gas exploration and production. Data were compiled from 40 water wells sampled in 2007. Nitrate concentrations in three wells exceeded the maximum contaminant level (44 mg/L) for drinking water. The highest nitrate concentration was 149 mg/L, and concentrations were generally higher in shallower wells. Chloride concentrations exceeded the 250 mg/L secondary drinking water standard in two wells, with no significant association between chloride concentration and well depth. Results of this study suggest localized human impacts, especially for nitrate, and identify areas warranting future monitoring. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc152435/
- Nitrate, Arsenic and Selenium Concentrations in The Pecos Valley Aquifer, West Texas, USA
- This article discusses nitrate, arsenic, and selenium concentrations in the Pecos Valley Aquifer in west Texas. Nitrate, arsenic, and selenium concentrations in the Pecos Valley Aquifer of west Texas compiled, mapped, and analyzed in the context of local geology and land use. Alluvial deposits of sand, silt, clay, and gravel compose the unconfined aquifer. Ranching and farming are predominant land uses in the rural study area. Data were tabulated from 79 water wells with a median depth of 75 m and mapped with a geographic information system (GIS). The wells were sampled between the years 2003 and 2008. Total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations in the aquifer were very high, with a median value of 2,687 mg/L. Approximately 18% of observations exceeded the 44.27 mg/L drinking water standard for nitrate, whereas 6% exceeded the 10 μg/L standard for selenium. There was a statistically significant, direct correlation between arsenic and selenium, as well as between nitrate and selenium concentrations. Moreover, arsenic and selenium concentrations were significantly higher in shallower wells. Probable sources of groundwater contamination in the study area include natural (geological) sources and agricultural activity. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc152432/
- Notes on the Reality of Archaeological Data: Two Zooarchaeological Case Studies from the Northern Rio Grande Region of New Mexico
- This presentation discusses research on archaeology. Public and academic perception of archaeology is unstructured. Members of the general public view archaeologists as key holders to the past, and members of "harder sciences" view archaeology as a pseudoscience. Both of these observations are problematic for the integrity of archaeological research and the field as a whole. Two case studies from the Northern Rio Grande (NRG) region of New Mexico show the limitations of zooarchaeological data. Principles derived from these case studies can help assuage overconfidence from the general public, as well as members of the archaeological community, and can ease excessive caution from members of the "harder sciences" in regard to archaeological conclusions. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93233/
- On the Peopling of the New World
- This presentation discusses research on the peopling of the new world. The author discusses three models: (1) Clovis First, (2) Pacific Coastal Migration, (3) Solutrean Origins. In this presentation, the author evaluates the three models and offers personal observations on what the author thinks about these models. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86902/
- Pediatric and Maternal HIV in Texas Border Counties and Urban Area
- This presentation accompanies a paper examining the geography of pediatric HIV, HIV in women, and age at diagnosis of women in the Dallas Fort-Worth metroplex, Houston-Galveston Area, and the colonies of the Texas-Mexico border counties using the human ecology model. In addition, the research investigates the correlation of female HIV rates and female age at diagnosis with pediatric HIV. County-level morbidity data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) from 1980 to 2009 are analyzed. Pediatric HIV and HIV in women have a strong positive correlation. The border counties have lower rates of HIV than do the urban areas, and have the youngest age at diagnosis, but have a higher pediatric HIV rate than the Dallas Fort-Worth metroplex. Interventions should target preventing HIV in females. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93260/
- Pediatric and Maternal HIV in Texas Border Counties and Urban Area
- This paper examines the geography of pediatric HIV, HIV in women, and age at diagnosis of women in the Dallas Fort-Worth metroplex, Houston-Galveston Area, and the colonias of Texas-Mexico border counties using the human ecology model. In addition, the study investigates the correlation of female HIV rates and female age at diagnosis with pediatric HIV. County-level morbidity data from the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) from 1980-2009 are analyzed. Pediatric HIV and HIV in women have a strong positive correlation. The border counties have lower rates of HIV than do the urban areas, and have the youngest age at diagnosis, but have a higher pediatric HIV rate than Dallas Fort-Worth metroplex. Interventions should target preventing HIV in females. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84337/
- Potential Hazards of Wind Energy For Rare, Tereatened, and Endangered Birds and Batsin Texas
- This article discusses the potential hazards of wind energy for rare, tereatened, and endangered birds and Batsin, Texas. The purpose of this study was to estimate relative potential hazard index (PHI) for 31 bird and ten bat species based upon the percentage of known or observed species range area (by county) within each wind speed classification. Results demonstrate considerable range in relative hazard, with the lesser prairie chicken and ferruginous hawk among the most potentially impacted birds; and the pale Townsend's bat, western small-footed bat, and big free-tailed bat among the most potentially impacted bats. While additional data are necessary to establish actual impacts of wind developments, relative potential hazard indices may help prioritize future studies. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc152434/
- Poverty and HIV/AIDS in East Texas
- This presentation discusses research on poverty and HIV/AIDS in East Texas. The latest research from the CDC and the World Health Organization propose that poverty is the leading factor in the spread of HIV. The research particularly emphasized urban extreme poverty areas as having much higher risk of HIV transmission and mortality. HIV/AIDS is not uniformly distributed across Texas, but research shows that East Texas has the highest rates. This region of Texas is growing rapidly in demographic and economic sectors, but unfortunately these are not the only factors that are expanding. The virus is spreading more rapidly across East Texas than any other region. Nationally, high HIV/AIDS rates can be attributed to poverty, socioeconomic status, and mode of transmission, race/ethnicity, and level of education. This presentation discusses this research. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93257/
- Poverty and HIV/AIDS in East Texas
- This paper discusses research on poverty and HIV/AIDS in East Texas. Compared to the rest of the country, Texas has very high rates of HIV/AIDS, but the disease is not uniformly distributed across Texas. East Texas has the highest rates and the virus is spreading more rapidly here than any other region (Texas Department of State Health Services, 2010). Nationally, high HIV/AIDS rates are highest in areas with extreme poverty and low socioeconomic status. In fact, the CDC asserts that HIV infection is analogous to poverty (CDC,2011). This paper seeks to understand the spatial distribution of HIV/AIDS in East Texas and analyze the explanatory factors. Specifically, it will focus on the role of poverty in HIV infection in urban and rural areas of East Texas. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86171/
- Retreating Glaciers of the Himalayas: A Case Study of Gangotri Glacier Using 1990-2009 Satellite Images
- This presentation discusses research on retreating glaciers in the Himalayas. Glacier retreating associated with snow and ice melting has received increased attention as a sensitive indicator of global warming. Based on satellite images (Landsat TM/ETM+) acquired between 1990 and 2009 and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) produced by NASA's Space Shuttle Endeavor in 2000, this study focuses on detecting and quantifying spatial and temporal changes of exposed glaciers and moraine-covered glaciers. The results suggest that the Gangotri Glacier has been retreating at a remarkable rate. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc93248/
- Retreating Glaciers of the Himalayas: A Case Study of Gangotri Glacier Using 1990-2009 Satellite Images
- This paper discusses research on the retreating glaciers of the Himalayas. Glacier retreat has received increased attention as a sensitive indicator of global warming. Based on medium-resolution Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) images acquired between 1990 and 2009, high-resolution GeoEye IKONOS images acquired in 2005, and a digital elevation model (DEM) provided by NASA's Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) carried out by the space shuttle Endeavour in 2000, this study focuses on the spatial and temporal variation of the moraine-covered Gangotri Glacier - one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas. Image calibration was carried out to convert Landsat TM digital numbers (DN) into radiance and reflectance for better comparison between images acquired on different dates. Reflectance spectral curves were derived from both glacial and non-glacial features for more accurate image interpretation. IKONOS images were used to accurate mapping of glacier terrain features. SRTM DEM was used to determine glacial flow directions and aid in image interpretation. Multi-temporal analyses of Landsat TM images acquired in 1990, 2001, and 2009 show that the Gangotri Glacier retreated 345 meters from 1990 to 2009, with a retreating rate of approximately 18 meters per year. The results also show that there are no obvious changes in glacial retreating rates during 1990-2001 and 2001-2009. However, the River Ganges may potentially become a seasonal river as a result of continued glacier retreating, affecting hundreds of millions of people on the Indian subcontinent. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc84326/
- A Spatial Analysis of Random Gunfire Incidents in Dallas, TX
- This presentation discusses a research study on the spatial analysis of random gunfire in Dallas, Texas. The objectives of this research were to determine the difference between incidents of random gunfire (RGF) and reports of RGF, the demographic profile of the RGF incident locations, and the neighborhoods where clusters of RGF occur. The conclusions found: (1) RGF can be isolated into specific incidents using a GIS with a time/space threshold, (2) RGF is correlated with levels of education, median household income, levels of owner-occupied housing and total population, and (3) RGF is significantly clustered in neighborhoods with specific demographic profiles. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86918/
- Spatial Distribution of Solutes in Aquifer Outcrop Zones along the Brazos River, East-Central Texas
- This articles discusses the spatial distribution of solutes in Aquifer outcrop zones along the Brazos River in east-central, Texas. Concentrations of several solutes - nitrate, arsenic, sulfate, boron, chloride, and bromide - along with total dissolved solids (TDS) in ten counties bordering the Brazos River in east-central, Texas were compiled, mapped, and analyzed relative to regional land use and geology. Agriculture and oil/gas production are major activities and potential sources of groundwater contamination in the study area. Data were compiled from 104 water wells with a median depth of 446 ft (136 m) in the outcrop zones of six sedimentary aquifers: Carizzo-Wilcox, Queen City, Sparta, Yegua-Jackson, Gulf Coast, and Brazos Alluvium. Only two observations surpassed the 44.3 mg/L drinking water standard for nitrate, and four observations exceeded the 10 ug/L standard for arsenic. The median chloride concentration was 53 mg/L; however, the maximum level was almost three times the secondary drinking water standard of 250 mg/L. Chloride, bromide, sulfate, and boron concentrations resembled TDS patterns, with numerous samples exceeding secondary TDS drinking water standards in the Yegua-Jackson Aquifer. Most chloride/bromide ratios were between 100 and 300. Overall, results of this study suggest that natural processes exert a primary control on solute concentrations in the above aquifers, with a potential for modest anthropogenic impacts from agriculture and oil/gas production. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc152433/
- A Study of Alzheimer's Disease in Texas Counties
- This presentation discusses a research study on Alzheimer's disease in Texas counties. More than five million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. The total annual cost of Alzheimer's and other dementias adds up to more than $148 billion. Alzheimer's disease poses an increasing burden on the health care industry due to the number of people at risk and nature of the disease. For this study, the author investigates whether Alzheimer's mortality rates will be influenced by dissolved aluminum concentration in the groundwater, race/ethnicity, gender, and whether Alzheimer's mortality rates are increasing over time. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86863/
- Taking Apple to the People: A Successful Retail Strategy for the Store Doomed to Fail
- This presentation discusses the Apple company and the success of their retail stores. When Apple first began their store locations, many people thought that the stores were doomed for failure. The Apple stores were seen as something that would quickly fail and become a costly mistake for the company. There are now over 247 Apple stores in at least 8 countries and the company is nearing/surpassing 10% in the Personal Computer (PC) market share. In this presentation, the author examines the company's successful strategies that are continuing to work. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86846/
- Tuberculosis Among Hispanics of Tarrant County, Texas
- This presentation discusses research on determining what is driving high tuberculosis (TB) rates among Hispanics in Tarrant County, Texas. Analysis was performed on data collected on persons newly diagnosed with TB at the Tarrant County Health Department (TCHD) between January 1, 1993 and December 31, 2006, a total of 830 cases. Cross tabulations were run for different risk factors using SPSS. This presentation offers information on this research. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86875/
- Tuberculosis and the Asian Population of Tarrant County, Texas
- This presentation discusses research examining the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) among foreign-born Asians living in Tarrant County, Texas. According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), TB in native-born Americans is steadily decreasing, while remaining constant for the foreign-born. In 2007, the TB rate among the foreign-born was 9.7 times that of U.S.-born, but among Asians it was 22.9 times the rate among Whites (CDC 2008 September). Data for this study were taken from a tuberculosis screening program conducted in Tarrant County from 1993 to 2006. Using Geographic Information System and statistical analysis, the study explores the relative contribution of traditional epidemiological factors including crowdedness, poverty, and less common factors such as self-reported incarceration, drug use, and other risky behaviors. The results indicate that although Asians make up 4.2% of the population, they account for 18% of TB cases. Surprisingly, however, Asians with TB are less likely to participate in the traditional high-risk behaviors that are normally associated with tuberculosis, including drug use (X2 = 57.426, p = .000), alcoholism (X2 = 39.776, p = .000), homelessness (X2 = 37.029, p = .000), and previous incarceration (X2 = 27.359, p = .000). Traditional programs targeting such high-risk populations may exclude Asians and thus threaten the progress toward TB elimination in the United States (CDC 2008 September). Targeted programs are needed to control TB in the Asian community to facilitate the elimination of TB in the United States. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86890/
- Tuberculosis and the Asian Population of Tarrant County, Texas
- The research in this paper examines the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) among foreign-born Asians living in Tarrant County, Texas. According to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC), TB in native-born Americans is steadily decreasing, while remaining constant for the foreign-born. In 2007, the TB rate among the foreign-born was 9.7 times that of U.S.-born, but among Asians it was 22.9 times the rate among Whites (CDC 2008 September). Data for this study were taken from a tuberculosis screening program conducted in Tarrant County from 1993 to 2006. Using Geographic Information System and statistical analysis, the study explores the relative contribution of traditional epidemiological factors including crowdedness, poverty, and less common factors such as self-reported incarceration, drug use, and other risky behaviors. The results indicate that although Asians make up 4.2% of the population, they account for 18% of TB cases. Surprisingly, however, Asians with TB are less likely to participate in the traditional high-risk behaviors that are normally associated with tuberculosis, including drug use (X2 = 57.426, p = .000), alcoholism (X2 = 39.776, p = .000), homelessness (X2 = 37.029, p = .000), and previous incarceration (X2 = 27.359, p = .000). Traditional programs targeting such high-risk populations may exclude Asians and thus threaten the progress toward TB elimination in the United States (CDC 2008 September). Targeted programs are needed to control TB in the Asian community to facilitate the elimination of TB in the United States. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86942/
- Tuberculosis: Environmental and Individual Indicators: A Work in Progress
- This poster discusses research on tuberculosis. Throughout the United States, tuberculosis has become a growing problem. This is particularly true in the African American community. But why are African Americans being hit so hard by this disease? The objective of the author's research is to determine the correlations between individual indicators (age, gender, ethnicity, recent immigration), environmental indicators (dwelling crowding, population density, poverty, building size and age, exposure to recent immigrants) and rates of infection with tuberculosis. This will be accomplished by using a geographical information system, with zip codes as the unit of analysis. The research sheds light on the nature of the relationship between these factors and the higher risk of infection among African Americans. It suggests that the greater risk of infection among African Americans may be due to a higher occurrence of environmental risk factors (poverty, crowding, population density, and exposure to recent immigrants) in the African American community. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc86105/
- Using GIS technology to identify areas of tuberculosis transmission and incidence
- This article discusses using GIS technology to identify areas of tuberculosis transmission and incidence. Background: Currently in the U.S. it is recommended that tuberculosis screening and treatment programs be targeted at high-risk populations. While a strategy of targeted testing and treatment of persons most likely to develop tuberculosis is attractive, it is uncertain how best to accomplish this goal. In this study the authors seek to identify geographical areas where on-going tuberculosis transmission is occurring by linking Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology with molecular surveillance. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis was performed on data collected on persons newly diagnosed with culture positive tuberculosis at the Tarrant County Health Department (TCHD) between January 1, 1993 and December 31, 2000. Clinical isolates were molecularly characterized using IS6 110-based RFLP analysis and spoligotyping methods to identify patients infected with the same strain. Residential addresses at the time of diagnosis of tuberculosis were geocoded and mapped according to strain characterization. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) analysis models were used to identify risk factors involved in clustering. Results: Evaluation of the spatial distribution of cases within zip-code boundaries identified distinct areas of geographical distribution of same strain disease. The authors identified these geographical areas as having increased likelihood of on-going transmission. Based on this evidence the authors plan to perform geographically based screening and treatment programs. Conclusion: Using GIS analysis combined with molecular epidemiological surveillance may be an effective method for identifying instances of local transmission. These methods can be used to enhance targeted screening and control efforts, with the goal of interruption of disease transmission and ultimately incidence reduction. digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc122162/