bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do zebra mussels (dreissena polymorpha) alter the water chemistry in a way that favours Microcystis
Authors: Bykova Olga
Published: May 2021

Many factors may contribute to cyanobacterial bloom formation. This study examined possible relationships between the presence of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and Microcystis spp. abundance. Experiments were conducted in twelve microcosms designed to mimic shallow lake ecosystems. Zebra mussels significantly reduced nitrate, dissolved organic nitrogen, and total dissolved nitrogen concentrations, and had no effect on ammonia, phosphate levels, or dissolved organic carbon. Consequently, the N:P ratio was reduced in microcosms with zebra mussels to 6:1, which is below the Redfield ration of 16:1. Zebra mussels also increased the abundance of Microcystis and Microcystis: Pseudokirchneriella biovolume. In experiments done without zebra mussels, nutrient ratios were manipulated and low N:P caused a similar increase in Microcystis and Microcystis: Pseudokirchneriella biovolume. The shift in N:P in the presence of zebra mussels were related to higher rates of nitrate flux into sediments and reduced flux of phosphate into sediments. It is this shift in N:P, and possibly some level of selective feeding, that is believed to have driven changes in the relative abundance of Microcystis. Finally, in order to compare the experimental results with changes caused by zebra mussel invasion in the natural environment, the data from 15 Wisconsin lakes before and after the zebra mussel invasions were analysed.
Dynamic access class barring and relay assisted radio resource allocation methods for cellular M2M networks
Authors: Ferdouse Lilatul
Published: May 2021

Cellular based M2M systems generate massive number of access requests which create congestion in the cellular network. The contention-based random access procedures are designed for cellular networks which cannot accommodate a large number of M2M traffic. Moreover, M2M systems share same radio resources with cellular users. Resource allocation problem becomes a challenging issue in cellular M2M systems. In this thesis, we address these two problems by analyzing a contention-based slotted Aloha random access procedure for M2M networks using different performance metrics. The impact of massive M2M traffic over cellular traffic is studied based on different arrival rate, random access opportunity and throughput. An analytical model of selecting a base station (eNB) along with load balancing is developed. Finally, two methods have been presented and evaluated with M2M traffic. First one is dynamic access class barring method which controls RAN level congestion by selecting an appropriate eNB and applying load balancing method. Second one is relay-assisted radio resource allocation method which maximizes the sum throughput of the system by utilizing the available radio resource blocks and relay nodes to the MTC systems. Numerical results show that frame transmission rate influences the selection probability of the base stations. Moreover, the dynamic access class barring parameter along with frame transmission rate improve the overall throughput and access success probability among base stations as well as avoid overload situation in a particular base station.
Examining the facilitation of best practice knowledge utilization in long-term care using Rogers' theory of innovation diffusion: a focus on the change agent
Authors: Visva Aarthi
Published: May 2021

Using facilitators to assist nurses’ utilization of best-practice knowledge (BPKU) in long-term care settings is considered important in bridging the research-practice gap. However, the role has only just begun to be explored and understood. A theory that provides some insight into this role is Rogers’ Theory of Innovation-Diffusion. This qualitative secondary analysis examined the roles and strategies undertaken by 10 facilitators of BPKU, and compared them to change agent roles and success factors as conceptualized by Rogers. The single emergent facilitator role involves dissemination of best-practice knowledge (BPKD), and the 6 strategies include knowing the market, engaging the nursing staff, modifying the message, building a relationship, using influential nursing staff, and involving nurse leaders. The findings provide preliminary support for using Rogers’ theory as a framework for nursing professionals engaged in BPKD. Further research is needed to illuminate the connection and distinction between BPKD and facilitation of BPKU.
Pricing spark spread options in electricity markets
Authors: Sharma Shivani
Published: May 2021

This master's thesis develops a pricing method for spark spread options using a Monte Carlo method. The underlying commodities of interest, natural gas and uranium highlight the prevalence of natural gas power and nuclear power in Canada. To characterize the dynamics of electricity prices and capture specific features they have, two Levy models are proposed: a jump-diffusion model and a time-changed model. Real data are used to calibrate the models, using the daily average market prices for the last five years. We created a method to compute the price of the derivative under realistic modelling conditions using parameters found through the real data. Such models can be used to value the spark spread contracts to mitigate the risk associated the contracts.
Evaluating the greenhouse gas emissions of the Ontario craft beer industry: an assessment of challenges and benefits of greenhouse gas accounting
Authors: Shin Rachel Anne Aiko
Published: May 2021

Ontario, Canada’s cap and trade program, a provincial tool for carbon regulation, came into effect January 1, 2017. While larger companies are targeted from this policy, both large and small companies have a responsibility to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Craft brewing in Ontario is growing, however industry GHGs have not been comprehensively studied. The purpose of this research is to measure the GHGs of an Ontario craft brewery, investigate the challenges and benefits to calculating GHGs, and evaluate Ontario craft brewers’ perceptions of carbon pricing policy. This research found that indirect sources account for the majority of GHGs, particularly from barley agriculture, malted barley transportation, and bottle production. Direct emissions account for the least GHGs. This research found that the main challenges in calculating Ontario brewery GHGs are secondary data availability, technical knowledge, and finances. The main benefits for breweries include sustainability marketing, and preserving the environment.
Assessment of an acoustic chamber for testing structure-borne sound transmission in a double-panel assembly
Authors: Bulski Peter
Published: May 2021

An acoustic chamber was designed for testing structure-borne sound transmission in a double-panel assembly induced by point connectors. Several vibration isolators were tested and the overall effects on the noise transmitted through the assembly were predicted by establishing the link between the vibratory acceleration level (VAL) and the sound pressure level (SPL). A detailed assessment of the acoustic chamber showed that a major modification of the double-panel assembly is required before the acoustic performance of this assembly could be evaluated directly using insertion loss (IL) measurements where the sound pressure level (SPL) difference is the performance indicator. This thesis describes the assessment findings and retrofitting options. It is concluded that adjustments to the VAL-to-SPL relation are required to account for distance, radiation efficiency, and room effects. Further adjustments to the acoustic chamber are required to enhance its performance.
CMOS RF Front-Ends For Bluetooth Applications
Authors: Li Yanmei
Published: May 2021

This project investigates the design of RF front-ends for bluetooth applications. The main objectives in each design are optimized noise figure, power consumption, gain and linearity. The designed cascode LNA achieves 1.37 dB low noise figure through ports matching and maximizes the voltage gain to 11.5 dB. The port isolation reaches to 82 dB. A 2 MHz low IF down-conversion mixer is developed. It employs current injection to reduce the flicker noise of MOSFETs. The total noise figure of the mixer is 17 dB and input referred IIP3 is 4.97 dB. A quadrature mixer constructed by two symmetric Gilbert mixers are discussed. A common-gate class E power amplifier is investigated. Through connecting a L matching network, the output power would be 17.7 dBm at 1.4 V power supply and the power added efficiency PAE and drain efficiency DE are 41% and 42.8 % respectively. To supply two LO frequencies with 90º phase difference, a quadrature voltage controlled oscillator is designed using a series of coupling structure and accumulation mode PMOS varactors. The frequency tuning range is 2.304 GHz ~ 2.54 GHz when the control voltage changes from 0 to 0.7 V. The QVCO exhibits phase noise of -113 dBc/Hz at 600 kHz offset frequency and -119 dBc.Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency. All the circuits were designed in TSMC-0.18μm 1.8 V CMOS technology and simulated using HSPICE RF simulator.
Hygrothermal performance of highly insulated wood frame walls with air leakage: field measurements and simulations
Authors: Fox Michael  J
Published: May 2021

The thesis examines the hygrothermal performance of six types of high thermal resistance (High RSI) wall assemblies during environmental exposure and an air leakage (exfiltration) simulation test. These walls were installed in the Building Engineering Group's test facility (BEG Hut) located at the University of Waterloo. The High-RSI wood-frame walls were assessed by analyzing condensation, mould, and decay risks using the moisture content, temperature, relative humidity and heat flux data collected during the field test. These field-measured data were also used to calibrate one-dimensional WUFI® simulation models for each of the High-RSI assembly for use in future durability assessments using a range of North American climates. Methods were investigated to improve the predictive capacity of these simulation models as well as to increase their utility as a research tool. The design, construction and instrumentation details of the High-RSI study were also documented.
Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and learning in small and medium size establishments (SME) : a case study from the beverage industry
Authors: Cooper Maureen
Published: May 2021

For businesses that are internally motivated to incorporate environmental management into daily practice, an environmental management system (EMS) is an effective tool to address environmental impacts. Yet, certification to formal EMS standards such as ISO 14001 may pose challenges for the unique needs of a small and medium-sized establishment (SME) such as Company Y, who seeks systematized environmental management while maintaining flexibility and openness. The researcher explores the proposition that EMS implementation and performance of an SME in the position of Company Y can be optimized by incorporating key tenets of Organizational Learning theory (OLT) into decision making and operations. Primary questioning, observation and literature research are used to characterize Company Y’s environmental decision-making and communication structure. For growing SMEs that are not comfortable with the formal requirements of third party EMS certification, this thesis suggests that OLT can be an effective approach to integrate environmental management into their business.
Exploration of affordances in subscription-based digital magazines
Authors: Miric Marijana
Published: May 2021

This study analyzed 128 digital magazines through the lens of affordance theory in order to analyze the current state of digital publishing and establish a framework for the design and development of digital magazines. Twenty affordances were identified and categorized into four distinct groups: extend content, community involvement, utility, and entertainment. Overall, a nonlinear relationship between the number of digital subscriptions and the variety of affordances implemented in a magazine was identified. Additionally, the 20 affordances identified were analyzed against three previously established frameworks, including Gibson’s original categorization of perceived, hidden,
and false affordances. This study provides valuable information for the media industry regarding the application of the theory of affordance and how it applies to digital magazines. In order for a digital magazine to be perceived as a successful adaptation of the print issue, it must provide the end user with a unique and immersive experience
Gamifying airport experience using Augmented Reality
Authors: Pashai-Fakhri Yalda
Published: May 2021

Continuous advancements in aerospace technology have led to incredible growth in the airline industry in the past three decades [1]. However, such rapid growth coupled with tighter security restrictions and stricter global travel requirements has led to a burgeoning logistical issue of handling in-transit passengers at airports. Due to security wait times, delays, cancellations and layovers, passengers are spending more time waiting and transiting at airports. This time is often considered to be “lost time” by passengers, as there is no positive or meaningful experience associated with it. This proposal utilizes augmented reality (AR) to gamify the airport environment in an attempt to reclaim this “lost time” for passengers. With the use of a personal mobile device, travelers can initiate a timed journey through the airport that guides them to points of interest where they can complete challenges to earn credits. These credits can then be used towards discount purchases at retailers and restaurants in the airport, resulting in a more positive airport experience for travelers and an increase in revenue for businesses.
Voices From The Other Side: Perceptions Of Caregivers On Operating Unregulated Home-Based ChildCare
Authors: Popov Victoria
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain a snapshot of the unregulated home-based care sector (UHBC). All seven participants in this study were Caucasian females providing unregulated childcare on a full-time basis within their homes. Data collection took place in the form of semi-structured interviews. The UHBC providers’ perceptions about their work were examined through the theoretical lens of the political economy of care that encompasses features such as social reproduction, grey market economy, transnationalization of care, and solutions that address political economy of care. The analysis revealed that the unregulated services UHBC providers offer embody a political economy of care. However, in addressing a political economy of care, the UHBC providers believe that they are meeting families’ needs, and wish for a better regulation of UHBC. A possible system of UHBC regulation is proposed.
Development of a Hyperspectral NIRS System for Functional Imaging of the Brain and for Cerebral Status Monitoring During Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Woldemichael Ermias
Published: May 2021

Hyperspectral near infrared spectroscopy (hNIRS) is a noninvasive, real-time imaging modality with an improved quantitative accuracy and increased number of detectable chromophores. It uses the broadband spectrum of light wavelengths in the range of 700 – 1100 nm and is based on the unique absorbance property of molecules and the fact that all biological tissues are relatively transparent to these wavelengths which allow for measuring concentrations of light absorbing molecules such as the Oxy- and Deoxy- hemoglobin and Cytochrome C Oxidase. As opposed to fMRI, PET and SPECT, hNIRS is inexpensive and portable.

The purpose of this thesis project was to employ advantages of hNIRS by developing the multichannel hNIRS set-up for the simultaneous assessment of multiple areas of the brain and to test the system in clinical applications. To achieve these goals, I developed a new optical fiber bundle design providing improvement of the optical power throughput into the hNIRS light detectors. I also developed a novel probe for measurements on hairy areas of the human head. To validate the hNIRS system I used it simultaneously with fMRI, which revealed a good correlation of hNIRS and fMRI BOLD signals from the brain. The multichannel hNIRS set up with the increased signals due to the novel optical fiber bundles was then used during various brain activation protocols, which in the future can allow for the assessment of patients with mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI). Finally, the hNIRS system with the new fiber bundles was compared with a commercial NIRS system in clinical setting for brain monitoring of patients during the transcatheter aortic valve implantation operation (TAVI).
On Integrating Autonomous Architecture
Authors: Mendiola Nathaniel
Published: May 2021

The Grid is the underlying construct that organizes and plots Toronto’s urban fabric. While its penchant for simplicity and unification is successful at the urban level, it reinforces moments of isolation at the architectural level. But as contemporary society becomes more complex and pluralistic, our architecture should become more indicative of this condition. By exploring the creative potential of a layered and diverse society, we can establish a new framework of order to operate within, one that offers a high degree of variation and integration. We can then begin to uncover new opportunities for enhancing architectural connections and facilitating deeper social interactions.
Beyond the bow: a digital solution for the queer community
Authors: Zlatanovic Katarina A.
Published: May 2021

Beyond the Bow is an app for the LGBTQ+ community which will allow users to find queer events in their areas, get involved, circulate information, and help foster and build physical queer spaces in the GTA. Connection of strangers and self-organization of the queer community is what allows for the growth of queer spaces in society and sustains the physical queer geography of cities. Development of this app will cultivate and expand public discourse and support member activity in our community, which is necessary to ensure the prosperity and maintenance of our public. This digital solution is informed by research conducted through participant observation, autoethnography, and discourse analysis. The work is grounded in queer theory. Beyond the Bow will allow for communication in a new, modernized way within the LGBTQ+ community, and help reshape our culture by creating and maintaining real-life connections and queer geography through mediated communication and virtual community-building tools. The overall goal of Beyond the Bow is to offer users an accessible virtual place, that will work as a gateway into our physical queer spaces by providing resources and information surrounding on-going activities and initiatives, thus enhancing member participation and promoting the success of our community.
Gravity is quiet: an immersive multiimage video installation
Authors: Lengden Frances
Published: May 2021

This paper presents research related to an immersive installation that explores the possibility of
creating a portrait of a particular state of mind. This optimal state of consciousness, called flow
and coined by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi reveals a subtle and hidden world of true
presence and untapped potential. Entitled Gravity is quiet, this 3-channel audio visual installation
examines the world of highline as a walking meditation and mines the introspections of various
flow practitioners through a singular, yet symphonically built voiceover. The documented
individuals push the perceived boundaries of their own mental and physical capacities, illustrating
their acceptance of the culture of risk, and the possibility of harnessing fear, discomfort, creativity
and joy through the world of movement. Subjects were filmed in Canyon Sainte-Anne
and Kamouraska, Quebec in the late summer of 2015. The installation is based on data collected
through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and visual content analysis of sportfocused
media.
Analysis of the ENU-3 protein family in nervous system development in C. elegans
Authors: Florica Roxana O.
Published: May 2021

During the development of the nervous system, neurons are guided to their final targets by several well-known guidance cues. In Caenorhabditis elegans the expression of the UNC-6/Netrin guidance cue along the ventral cord attracts axons that express UNC-40, while repulsing axons that express both the UNC-5 and UNC-40 receptors. Lack of both UNC-40 and the novel protein ENU-3 enhanced the ventral guidance defects of the AVM and PVM (Yee et al., 2014). This suggests that ENU-3 functions in an UNC-6 dependent pathway parallel to UNC-40 in controlling migrations towards the ventral nerve cord. Mutations in all proteins of the ENU-3 family also enhance the motor neuron axon outgrowth defects of strains lacking UNC-6 or the UNC-5 receptor, thus they function in a parallel unknown pathway (Yee et al., 2011). Expression analyses in HeLa cells have determined that ENU-3 and one of its paralogs, C38D4.1 localize to the nuclear membrane/ER while another of its paralogs, K01G5.3 is an intracellular membrane-associated protein.
Designing an airflow system for cabin test facility
Authors: Alawneh Obidah
Published: May 2021

This report provides designs and solutions to develop an airflow system that would be placed inside the C-series cabin at Downsview testing facility. Designing a smart air quality system proved to be problematic, such as the interference with other research projects, and the requirement of having to mimic the G7500 HVAC system. However, the design proposed managed to solve those problems, in addition this report provides basic information about how ventilation system works in aircrafts, and their different types. It also provides information about the various harmful particles found inside aircraft cabins, and what kind of sensors can be used to catch and measure those particles. Finally, a sample simulation was shown to give a starting point for future research to be done.
Neurocognitive and Dysfunctional Belief Candidate Endophenotypes of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
Authors: Taillefer Stephanie E.
Published: May 2021

Background: The current dissertation examined neurocognitive and dysfunctional belief candidate endophenotypes (CEs) across the obsessive compulsive spectrum to elucidate general versus specific factors. This study included CEs from two etiological perspectives well established in the literature. Secondary analyses examined several CEs multidimensionally and examined the relationship between CEs and of QOL. Methods: A total of 77 participants took part in this study, divided into four groups; OCD (n = 21), Hoarding Disorder (HD; n = 16), Grooming Disorders which included both Trichotillomania and Excoriation Disorder (GD; n = 18), and control participants (n = 22). Participants completed a clinical interview and battery of neurocognitive tasks and questionnaires. Results: Those with HD performed worse than controls on measures of response inhibition and set-shifting. OCD continued to predict significant variance in number sequencing. Examination of dysfunctional belief CEs revealed specificity of Responsibility/Threat beliefs and Importance/Control of Thoughts beliefs to OCD. Perfectionism/Intolerance of Uncertainty appear to be broad CEs; however, differing specificity emerged depending on the measure utilized to measure the construct. Self-report indecision revealed specificity to OCD and HD. Differing patterns of QOL impairments emerged across the spectrum. A better understanding of CEs specificity has implications for diagnostic classification, etiology, course, and treatment.
Towards novel BODIPY compounds for material & medical applications
Authors: Hussein Burhan Ahmed
Published: May 2021

This thesis describes the synthesis of a novel family of 4,4─difluoro─4─bora─3a─4a─diaza─s─indacenes for material and education applications (BODIPYs). This thesis also presents the exploration of their optical and electrochemical properties, as well as potential for application in dye─sensitised solar cells, and synthetic laboratories. Chapter 1 gives an overview of the photophysical of chromophores of large organic electronics. BODIPYs are introduced as suitable building blocks for such applications, and synthetic approaches for extending the conjugation of these fluorophores are presented. Chapter 2 gives an overview the development of an engaging senior undergraduate laboratory course based on BODIPY that reinforces traditionally important technical skills and explore property─directed synthesis & research. Chapter 3 describes the use of the redox robust ferrocene as electron donor in the synthesis of ferrocene─BODIPY dyes for DSSC applications. Chapter 4 explores the effects of confined intramolecular π─stacking on the physicochemical properties of π─π BODIPY dimers in cyclophane architectures through the synthesis of a novel cyclophane consisting of BODIPY and anthracene moieties.
Impact of window walls on thermal comfort and energy efficiency in condominium buildings: an experimental study in Toronto
Authors: Emuwa Udegbuna Oscar-George
Published: May 2021

Radiant field asymmetry is described as differences in radiant temperature an occupant perceives on different parts of the body. Most complaints about thermal comfort in condominiums are as a result of local discomfort rather than overall discomfort. A field study was performed in summer, using thermocouples to determine possible thermal discomfort caused by the interior surface temperature of a window wall oriented with marginal solar radiation and its effects on energy efficiency. ASHRAE standard 55 was used to evaluate thermal comfort while temperature gradients between the window wall temperature and a “neutral” window wall temperature was used to evaluate energy efficiency of the window wall. Results showed that on a hot clear day there was a rise in interior surface temperature of the window wall by 8.4ºC, due to direct solar radiation. Thermal comfort was within ASHRAE standards and energy efficiency would have been improved with a better window to wall ratio or high performance
Pilgrimage to solitude : landscapes of Glenn Gould
Authors: Laurie Mark
Published: May 2021

Pilgrimage to Solitude is a documentary film that explores the geographical places of significance from the life of the late Canadian pianist, composer, and writer, Glenn Gould. In Pilgrimage, the camera documents a number of the physical spaces that feature prominently in Gould's biography, while the soundtrack deploys a sonic technique pioneered by Gould himself in his influential series of sound documentaries: the formal treatment of layered voices which he called "contrapuntal radio." This MFA project paper contextualizes the film within the broader Gould discourse; examines the film's methods, style, and structure; theorizes the accessing of memory in an important photographic antecedent to this work; and explores aspects of the landscape tradition in the Canadian experimental documentary.
The role of motivation in children’s credulity toward false testimony
Authors: Ruggiero Adrianna
Published: May 2021

The present research examined the role of motivation in children’s credulity toward false testimony that contradicted their first-hand observations. Children observed an experimenter hide an object in one of three containers. Then, the experimenter provided false testimony about the hiding location of the object, and children were asked to retrieve the object on their own. In a Motivation condition, an object that children rated as desirable was hidden and a negatively framed consequence was presented. In a Baseline condition, children did not rate any objects and were not given a consequence. Overall, 3-year-olds were more credulous toward the false testimony than were 4-year-olds. In addition, 3-year-olds, but not 4-year-olds, were more resistant to the false testimony when exposed to motivating factors than when they were not. These findings can have real-world implications in forensic settings where children may serve as a source of eyewitness testimony.

Key words: credulity, motivation, false testimony, first-hand observation
Ultrasound shear wave elastography: numerical modeling and time-frequency analysis with an application in HIFU thermal lesion detection
Authors: Sobhe Bidari Pooya
Published: May 2021

In this work, a new numerical framework is proposed and implemented to simulate acoustic wave propagation in 3D viscoelastic heterogeneous media. The framework is based on the elastodynamic wave equation in which a 3D second-order time-domain perfectly matched layer (PML) formulation is developed to model unbounded media. The numerical framework is discretized by a finite difference formulation and its stability analysis is discussed.
The proposed numerical method is capable of simulating 3D shear and longitudinal acoustic waves for arbitrary source geometries and excitations, together with arbitrary initial and boundary conditions. After validation of the framework, it was used to simulate the propagation of ultrasound shear wave in high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) induced thermal lesions located within soft tissue. The parameters in these simulations were obtained from standard double-indentation measurements of the viscoelastic parameters of normal and thermally coagulated chicken breast tissue samples. A HIFU system was used to induce thermal lesions in tissue.

In this study, a new elastography procedure was also introduced to differentiate between the normal and HIFU induced thermal lesions. This method is based on time-frequency analysis of shear wave propagation within the tissue. In the proposed method, the Wigner-Ville distribution has been used as a time-frequency analytical technique to detect the location of shear wave propagating within the tissue, and to estimate the shear speed of the wave as well as its center frequency and attenuation coefficient. This method was applied to the acoustic wave propagation simulation results of the HIFU thermal lesion. It was finally used to estimate the local viscoelastic parameters of the medium. It was demonstrated that the proposed method is capable of differentiating the thermal lesions from the normal tissue based on their viscoelastic parameters.
Context-Preserving Volume Image Exploration Using A 3D Painting Metaphor
Authors: Faynshteyn Lev
Published: May 2021

This thesis combines a 3Dinteraction model with a Maximum Intensity Difference Accumulation (MIDA) volume visualization algorithm to create a technique for exploring volumetric datasets. The interaction model is based on a 3D Painting metaphor where a user selects a Region of Interest (ROI) by “painting” a 3D envelope enclosing features of interest. The result is an exploration technique that is intuitive to use and easy to learn even for non-expert users. The painting based model and the MIDA algorithm also provide visualization flexibility by allowing for different combinations of volumetric exploration operations. In addition, the various algorithms comprising the exploration technique have been implemented to take full advantage of parallel computational capabilities of modern Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), thus providing real-time interaction and high-quality visualisation. Finally, the contributions of the thesis are validated by a series of experiments and a user study.
Examining power in protracted spaces: a feminist approach toward approach toward the elimination of refugee women's insecurity inside Dadaab
Authors: Galizia Amelia
Published: May 2021

In Dadaab, a refugee complex located in eastern Kenya, the issue of refugee women’s insecurity is ongoing and of high proportions. In this Major Research Paper, I seek to understand how the insecurity of refugee women in Dadaab is founded on the interlocking positionalities of its four major actors: the Kenyan government, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the United States government, and the refugee community of Dadaab. Using a human security approach, along with intersectionality as the method of analysis, I demonstrate how the intersection of power relations by the major actors, along with the intersection of refugee women’s identities, compound refugee women’s livelihoods to produce a phenomenon whereby refugee women are particularly vulnerable to violence and insecurity. Furthermore, through a critical analysis, I aim to conceptualize a shared responsibility by the four major actors in Dadaab as a means to move toward the elimination of women’s insecurity in the complex.

Key words: refugee women; insecurity; refugee camp; protraction; Dadaab; Kenya; UNHCR;

intersectionality; human security
Modeling and simulation for a PEM fuel cell with catalyst layers in finite thickness
Authors: Yin Jianghui
Published: May 2021

A detailed non-isothermal computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for proton electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells is developed in this thesis. This model consists of the equations of continuity, momentum, energy, species concentrations, and electric potentials in different regions of a PEM fuel cell. In particular, the fairly thin catalyst layers of the fuel cell are assigned a finite thickness instead of being treated as nil thickness interfaces in other PEM fuel cell models. Various source/sink terms are presented to associate the conservation equations with the electrochemical reaction kinetics. The water balance in the membrane is modeled by coupling diffusion of water, pressure variation, and the electro-osmotic drag. The membrane swelling effect is explicitly considered the newly derived model, leading to a set of novel water and proton transport equations for a membrane under the partial hydration condition. The electron transport in the catalyst layers, gas diffusion layers and bipolar plates are also described. The PEM fuel cell model developed has been implemented into a commercial CFD software package for simulating various flow and transport phenomena arising in operational PEM fuel cells, analyzing the impact of design and operating parameters on the cell performance, and optimizing the PEM fuel cell design.
Imaging the Electro-Kinetic Response of Biological Tissues with Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Demidov Valentin
Published: May 2021

This thesis reports on developing a novel approach to imaging the electro-kinetic response of biological tissues with optical coherence tomography (OCT). The changes of backscattered OCT signal from tissues were investigated with a low frequency AC electric field being applied to the tissues. Advanced processing algorithms were developed to analyze the amplitude and phase changes of OCT signal. Two-dimensional electrically induced optical changes (EIOC) amplitude and phase images related to the electro-kinetic response of soft tissues were obtained with depth resolution and compared with structural OCT images. The procedure for removing the background noise from EIOC images was introduced.
Examining the performance gap in LEED certified MURBs
Authors: Carroll Kaitlin Paige
Published: May 2021

This study assesses the performance gap between actual energy performance and desired energy performance outcomes for a case study of 19 LEED-certified multi-unit residential buildings in the Greater Toronto Area. The study examines 1) how accurately design-stage energy modelling predicts actual energy use, 2) how much variation of energy performance can be seen between buildings of the same level of certification, and 3) the key contributing factors of this performance gap. Using EUI as the basis of comparison, trend analysis was carried out.
It was determined that a performance gap between modelled and actual building energy use does exist. When compared to a larger sample of existing buildings, the case study buildings show no real improvement, on average. Regression models revealed no strong correlation between LEED Level or LEED EAc1 credits and reduced EUIs.
Time-Varying Coefficient Models And The Kalman Filter : Applications To Hedge Funds
Authors: Punales Ana G.S.
Published: May 2021

There are various studies concerned with the estimation of stochastically varying coefficients for the hedge fund series but just [sic] few are available in the literature that study the model with time-varying coefficients and non-linear factor, or make a comparison of the series before and during the financial crisis. This work studies a model with linear and non-linear factors with stochastically varying coefficients to obtain better estimation of the exposure of the hedge fund and accuracy in the results. Better exposure estimates implies better hedging against negative changes in the market hence a reduction in the risk taken by the hedge fund manager. Besides, different techniques have been studied, implemented and applied in this thesis to estimate and analyze time varying exposures of different HFRX Index (an index that describes the hedge fund industry performance).

The study shows that option-like models with time-varying coefficients perform the best for most of the HFRX indexes analyzed. It also shows that the Kalman Filter technique combined with the Maximum Likelihood Estimator is the best approach to estimate time-varying coefficients. In addition, we provide evidence that Kalman Filter is in a better position to capture changes in the exposure to the market conditions.
Phoenix : Rebirth of the Fashion Image
Authors: Wilson Chloe
Published: May 2021

The objective of this practice-based master’s research project is to explore how theory on photography, communication and mythology can be illustrated by the format, layout and design of a 120 page alternative fashion publication in such a way that it provides insight into the relationship between mythology and the fashion image and an alternative perspective on the fashion image that goes beyond profit-driven motives. This project explores methods of collaboration and creativity by appropriating various works, personal projects, and those of contributors and collecting them into one context: the Phoenix publication. The methods of appropriation, détournement, meta, and corpse exquisite are used in the creation of this project in terms of individual submissions, layout, formatting, and the understanding of the publication as a
whole.
Evaluating the Performance of Two Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems of the Archetype Sustainable Houses
Authors: Tanha Kamyar
Published: May 2021

This thesis is focused on the performance of the two SDHW systems of the sustainable Archetype houses in Vaughan, Ontario with daily hot water consumption of 225 litres. The first system consists of a flat plate solar thermal collector in conjunction with a gas boiler and a DWHR. The second SDHW system consists of an evacuated tube collector, an electric tank and a DWHR. The experimental results showed that the DWHRs were capable of an annual heat recovery of 789 kWh. The flat plate and evacuated tube collectors had an annual thermal energy output of 2038 kWh and 1383 kWh. The systems were also modeled in TRNSYS and validated with the experimental results. The simulated results showed that Edmonton has the highest annual energy consumption of 3763.4 kWh and 2852.9 kWh by gas boiler and electric tank and that the solar thermal collectors and DWHRs are most beneficial in Edmonton.
Re: Purpose I reframing the purpose of construction waste
Authors: Grimsrud Mark
Published: May 2021

This thesis is an investigation into the extended use of waste in an architectural context. As resources are becoming depleted, new systems and techniques need to be developed to use what we have more effectively. By studying the material flows of urban construction, new purposes for construction waste can be revealed. This thesis
challenges the current perceptions of waste to that of a nutrient. In order to showcase and frame waste as nutrient, the project proposal is for urban interventions built from waste to be placed throughout public spaces on Ryerson’s Campus. These interventions will inform the public on material reuse and at the same time increase the quality of public space. Typically when waste is used in architecture, the material sources are unique, this thesis questions that notion by investigating materials that are ubiquitous. This thesis strives to answer if and how architecture can add value to waste materials
Monstrous Architecture and the Architect's Monster : Discovering Meaning in Architecture Through Critical Engagement and Intellectual Discourse
Authors: MacLean Sean
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this thesis is to engage architecture, explore it through an imaginative process, with inventive forms of realism, and use architecture as a vehicle to engage design in a critical process. It will open the opportunity for discourse on the subject of monster. Not monsters under the bed or the ones hiding in the closet awaiting some unsuspecting child, but the breed that offers a discussion or commentary on a particular event, idea, or era. The monster is a way to demonstrate, "to show", and at the same time be explicit in meaning and representation. The Latin roots of the word monster links monstrum with monere, "to remind or warn", it is a "sign or an omen". It is said, that monsters are great signifiers, and in doing so, portray protagonists out of the ordinary. Literature and film are two very strong ways to employ the idea of monster as a narrative, and this thesis will reveal this tactic in architecture.
Exploring Factors that May Influence Ontario Nurse Practitioners’ Patient Panel Size in Primary Healthcare Settings
Authors: Bennewies Nicole
Published: May 2021

Limited knowledge exists about the factors that may influence nurse practitioner (NP) patient panel size. Patient panel size refers to the number of patients for whom a NP is their usual care provider. Increased knowledge of these factors may improve patient care, NP practice, and primary health care (PHC) workforce planning. Two hundred and eighty-three NPs working in Ontario PHC were surveyed to explore patient, NP, and organizational factors that may influence NP patient panel size. Three factors were associated with NP panel size. Higher percentages of certain health conditions and/or longer appointment time for multi-morbid and palliative care were associated with smaller NP patient panel size. NPs who worked more hours per week had larger patient panels. Also, the PHC practice model was related to NP patient panel size, which was largest in NP-led clinics. Decision makers can use these findings to support optimization of NP patient panel size.
Distributed or centralized HVAC: a practical investigation into household heating systems
Authors: Cunningham Morgan James
Published: May 2021

Three main questions pertaining to household heating were and answered through rigorous empirical testing;
• Is it more efficient to keep a house at constant temperature throughout the day, or should the temperature be allowed to dip when unoccupied?
• Is it possible to build a scale-model house with proper thermal ballasting to simulate and verify the first question?
• Can the empirical results be used to verify whether or not steady state models of heat transfer (for simplicity’s sake) can provide reasonably accurate results?
It was observed that keeping a house at constant temperature is inefficient and causes over cycling of electro-mechanical equipment. Continuing on, it is possible to build a scale-model house to mimic reality, however, care is needed in the design process if you wish to have similar volumetric time constants. And finally, steady-state models can be implemented to predict energy input, but with a certain degree of error.
The distribution and effects of microbeads on host-parasite interactions of Ontario wetland fauna: tadpoles, snails and trematodes
Authors: Balsdon Mary Katherine Claudia Balsdon
Published: May 2021

Plastic microbeads pose an environmental problem as they easily enter into waterbodies, take a long time to break down, and their ingestion can have negative effects on aquatic organisms. I found that microbead consumption had a significant negative effect on the growth of northern leopard frog (Lithobates pipiens) tadpoles, as well as their susceptibility to trematode parasite (Echinostoma trivolvis) infection, but minimal effects on leukocyte profiles and infection tolerance. Freshwater snails (Stagnicola elodes) given microbead diets exhibited a non-monotonic response in their production of trematode (Haematolechus parviplexus) infectious stages, with those in the highest microbead treatment tending to exhibit greater growth and shorter longevity. I also found that algae (Chlorella pyrenoidosa) and microbeads created density-dependent aggregations that could be a potential ingestion pathway for herbivorous fauna. Lastly, I found many particles in Ontario wetlands and ponds that may be used for controlled pesticide release, thus potentially posing a threat.
Estimation of Weibull parameters using artificial neural network
Authors: Mallick Md. Sujauddin
Published: May 2021

Weibull distribution is an important distribution in the field of reliability. In this distribution usually there are two parameters. The usual parameter estimation method is maximum likelihood estimation. Maximum likelihood estimation requires mathematical formulation and prior assumption. Non parametric method such as neural network does not require prior assumption and mathematical formulation. They need data to formulate the model. In this report feed forward neural network with back propagation is used to estimate the parameters of a two-parameter Weibull distribution based on four Scenarios. The Scenario consists of training and test data set. Training and test data set generated through simulated time to failure events using wblrnd function in MATLAB. The input to the network is time to failure, and the output is shape and scale parameters. The network is trained and tested using trainbr algorithm in MATLAB. The network performed better on Scenario 2 which has the larger number of training examples of shape and scale.
High speed wireless data acquisition system
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad
Published: May 2021

In a setup for a system long term stability and reliability test, sensors are used to measure physical quantities, affecting the behavior of the system, by sampling the sensor readings, convert it to digital numerical value and saving it for further detail analysis. The sensors are wired to a central location to collect and log data, due to extensive wiring requirements the setup is very difficult and sometimes even impossible to implement. This project presents an implementation of high speed wireless data acquisition system which samples sensors output at high speed (5 KHz), converts it to digital numerical form and sends wirelessly to central data gathering unit thus avoiding home run wiring from each sensor to central data gathering unit where it is logged on USB flash drive and send to PC for real time display. The implementation target was wireless link between a transmitter module, serving a maximum of 8 sensors at 5 KHz sampling rate and 16bit ADC resolution for each sensor, to data gathering unit. The implementation does fall short on specification on number of channels and sampling rate due to limitation of over the air data rate of the radio module, what we were able to achieve is 4 channels of 16 bit ADC resolution at 2 KHz sampling rate using radio module with 300 Kbps over the air data rate. Using different sensors and with different configurable settings the tests shows that the stored data at the data gathering unit and the data stored using wired data acquisition system has no difference. For future improvement radio module with over the air data rate (1.55 Mbps) which allows multiple transmitters connected wirelessly to a single data gathering unit providing more flexibility in sensor deployment. Even though the implementation falls short on some of the features but with using improved radio module and/or using some compression techniques on ADC data, before sending data wirelessly, these short comings could be overcome easily.