bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Map Reading Expertise and Map Type on Eye Movements in Map Comparison Tasks
Authors: Rinner Claus , Ferber Susanne
Published: May 2021

Comparing maps of different geographical phenomena, or maps of the same geographical phenomenon at different points in time, is a frequent task in many disciplines. The process of map comparison has been studied occasionally by cartographers since the 1970s, but recent improvements in neuropsychological testing equipment and in geographical information system (GIS) technology had us review this topic in a new light. We propose a cognitive approach using eye movement recording to understand the process of comparing two static maps displayed simultaneously on a screen.

Two groups of subjects with different levels of expertise with map reading were shown pairs of maps and asked to judge their similarity or difference. We used three types of maps that differed in their spatial granularity: (A) randomly generated, 64-by-64 pixel, black-and-white images, (B) grayscale choropleth maps representing socio-economic variables for counties in lower Michigan, and (C) land-use maps of the surroundings of selected Canadian cities in different years resulting from classified satellite imagery. Subjects were asked whether two maps presented on the screen were similar (tests A and B) or different (test C).

Response times, fixation durations and fixation counts differed significantly for the three map types. Land-use maps required the longest response times indicating that they were most difficult to compare. At the same time, land-use maps required more fixations than the other two types of maps, while the duration of these fixations was not different from the other map types. When comparing two maps of the same type, saccades between the two maps provide information on the subject’s decision-making process. We found that for the land-use maps, the number of these cross-saccades was significantly smaller than for the two other map types.

Pairs of land-use maps were characterized by a fine raster grid and fewer pixel-by-pixel differences between the two maps, while both, random grids in test A and county maps in test B consist of clear-cut spatial units. We conclude that whenever spatial units can be distinguished on a map and corresponding units on a second map can be found easily, subjects will tend to compare the two maps in a unit-by-unit approach. In contrast, if maps consist of smoother spatial patterns, subjects will try to memorize patterns on one map (usually the one on the right-hand side), and make fewer saccades to compare these patterns with those on the other map. The results from this experiment could be used to provide context-adaptive tools for map comparison in GIS.

The behavioral differences between groups (experts vs. novices) in this experiment were mostly not significant. This supports the notion of developing standard GIS tools that are offered to users with a wide range of expertise.
Computer Support for Discussions in Spatial Planning
Authors: Rinner Claus
Published: May 2021

1. Introduction

Spatial planning deals with the problem of distributing the limited resource "space" among different uses and users. It can be highly challenging to find a balanced land-use pattern, for example in urban agglomerations. Different interest groups such as residents, industry, and ecologists will claim different desirable land-uses for a given area. Spatial planning is also about locating unwanted land-use such as waste facilities. In this case, interest groups (e.g. city councils, neighbourhood organizations) and individuals will fight nearby locations. This situation is known as the NIMBY problem: “Not In My BackYard!”

In democratic societies, decisions such as those in spatial planning are made by political representatives in cooperation with public administration and residents. The final decision will usually be based on a number of consecutive prior decisions, or choices, which are made by different groups of stakeholders. At any of these decision levels, there are two important methods to reach a conclusion: consensus finding, or voting. Both will be preceded by more or less intensive discussions and argumentation. The ultimate goal of discussions is to achieve sustainable development by integrating the objectives of diverse stakeholders. Thus, we argue that discussions are a crucial element of spatial planning procedures and are to be integrated with planning and decision support techniques.

Discussions will have diverse formats in different planning projects. For example, the number of participants may vary from only two to hundreds and more; participants may get together or stay separated in space and/or time; discussion may be un-moderated, or moderated and structured. Nevertheless, discussion contributions (statements, messages, arguments, articles) in spatial planning will commonly contain a spatial reference. This does allow to link discussion support to spatially enabled decision support techniques as argued in this chapter.

In section 2, we will review general theories on argumentation and introduce major concepts of computer-supported cooperative work. Next, geographically referenced discourse will be analysed in more detail leading to the argumentation map model (section 3). Section 4 develops use cases for GIS-based discussion support, and section 5 presents some existing applications. Finally, we will speculate about future developments in computer support for discussions in spatial planning (section 6).
Nonparametric estimation and specification testing of a two-factor interest rate model
Authors: Thompson Brennan Scott
Published: May 2021

We propose a simple, flexible approach to nonparametric estimation and specification testing for a two-factor interest rate model. These methods are illustrated with a Monte Carlo experiment and an empirical example.
The relationship between CABG patient characteristics and perceived learning needs: a secondary analysis
Authors: Fredericks Suzanne
Published: May 2021

Background: Patients’ learning needs are influenced by socio-cultural characteristics such as level of formal education, sex, and age. Limited research has examined this influence.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) to describe the number and type of learning needs identified, and 2) to examine the relationships between learning needs and socio-cultural characteristics (education, sex, and age).
Design: This study was a sub-study of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) that evaluated the most appropriate time for delivering education to patients who had CABG surgery. Sample: Individuals having CABG with 1-4 grafts for the first time and who were literate and cognitively oriented to person, place, and time were included in this study.

Analysis: Descriptive and correlation statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: A significant difference between learning needs and sex (p = 0.00) was noted, while a significant relationship between learning needs and age (p = 0.03) was identified. Conclusion: This study represents a first step towards identifying the association between perceived learning needs and socio-cultural characteristics.
The Term Structures of Interest Rates in the New and Prospective EU Countries
Authors: Koukouritakis Minoas , Michelis Leo
Published: May 2021

This paper uses cointegration and common trends techniques to investigate empirically the expectations hypothesis of the term structure of interest rates for the 10 new EU countries, along with Bulgaria and Romania. The empirical results support the expectations theory of the term structure for all countries except Malta. By decomposing each term structure into its transitory and permanent components, we also analyze short run and long run interdependence among the term structures of interest rates in these countries. Our results indicate weak linkages among the term structures of the 10 new EU countries, and strong linkages between Bulgaria and Romania that hope to join the EU in 2007.

JEL Classification: E43, F15, F42
The Matching Game: Experimenting with Librarian Mediated Patron-Driven Acquisition
Authors: Jin Lei , Yan May
Published: May 2021

Are you thinking of piloting Patron-Driven Acquisition in your library? In this session, we share our experiences with PDA. We will lead a discussion on the implementation decisions for selection and workflow and the differences and similarities between patron-selected vs. librarian-selected titles; and usage of electronic vs. print titles.
Detection of trace arsenic in drinking water: challenges and opportunities for microfluidics
Authors: Yogarajah Nevetha , Tsai Scott
Published: May 2021

Arsenic contamination of drinking water is a major global problem, with contamination in Bangladesh deemed most serious. Although the current World Health Organisation (WHO) maximum contamination limit (MCL) for arsenic in drinking water is 10 μg L−1, due to practical and economic constraints, the standard limit in Bangladesh and many other developing nations is 50 μg L−1. We propose that an ideal arsenic sensor, designed for routine monitoring, will have five essential qualities: sensitivity and selectivity for arsenic; speed and reliability; portability and robustness; reduced health and environmental risks; and affordability and ease of use for local technicians. It is our opinion that many of these characteristics can be accentuated by microfluidic systems. We describe candidate colorimetric, electrochemical, biological, electrophoretic, surface-sensing, and spectroscopic methods for arsenic detection; and comment on their potential for portable microfluidic adaptation. We also describe existing developments in the literature towards the ultimate creation of microfluidic total analysis systems (μTASs) for arsenic detection. The fundamental purpose of this review is to highlight the need for better portable arsenic contamination detection, and describe how microfluidic technology may be developed to address this need.
Refugee Youth And Migration: Using Arts-Informed Research To Understand Changes In Their Roles And Responsibilities
Authors: Abiyo Stella
Published: May 2021

This article presents the findings from a community-based qualitative study that utilized an arts-informed method to understand the changes in refugee youth's roles and responsibilities in the family within the (re)settlement context in Canada. The study involved 57 newcomer youths from Afghan, Karen, or Sudanese communities in Toronto, who had come to Canada as refugees. The data collection method embedded a drawing activity within focus group discussions. We present these drawings, as well as explanations and discussions to capture the complexities of their experiences. The data analysis involved 1. reflective dialogue between each participant and her/his own drawing; 2. group dialogue, reflection, and elaboration on meanings in the drawings; and 3. the research team's reflective dialogue. The findings revealed that the youths' roles and responsibilities have both changed and increased following migration, often involving interpretation and translation, and providing financial and emotional support to their family members, in addition to engaging in household chores and educational pursuits. Use of drawings as a data generation method enriched the findings of focus group discussions, and vice versa in a number of ways. We also present implications for future research involving arts-informed methods.
Benefits and Challenges to People with Psychiatric Disabilities Who Volunteer
Authors: Meinhard Agnes , Greenspan Itay , Paterson Jennifer , Livingstone Phaedra
Published: May 2021

This research follows from the research reported in CVSS Working Paper Series, Volume 2007 (2). In that paper we presented the results of our examination of volunteer programs in ten organizations serving people with psychiatric disabilities2. We described the nature of the programs, identified best practices and discussed the challenges and benefits they presented. This paper focuses on the responses of 27 people with psychiatric disabilities to a questionnaire probing their volunteering experiences. Please refer to the previous CVSS Working Paper titled “Client Volunteering in Organizations Serving Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities” for a detailed review of the literature. Here we will briefly summarize the major thrust of the literature review.
Keywords: CVSS, Centre for Voluntary Sector Studies, Working Paper Series, TRSM, Ted Rogers School of Management

Citation:
Developing a Cornerstone "Human in the System" Engineering Design Course
Authors: Salustri Filippo , Neumann Patrick
Published: May 2021

The authors describe their experiences creating a cornerstone engineering design course for mechanical and industrial engineering undergraduate students. Starting with a tabula rasa, we have been working to create a one-semester design experience that integrates Human Factors (HF) directly into every aspect of engineering design. In the last decade, we have identified three key issues with which we grapple: lack of integration of HF in design; lack of access to cohesive HF data; and dysfunctional student teams. Given the lack of available information upon which to draw for the design of this course, we adopted a CQI-like iterative, organic, and evolutionary approach. In this paper, we present many of the ways we have attempted to address these issues, relating to courseware development, course management, assessment and grading, and student and instructor support. We summarize by presenting our advice to others who are looking to fully embed HF or other non-design fields into a cogent design experience for their students. All our courseware and tools are available freely on the web.
Women's organizations are different: their response to shifts in Canadian policy
Authors: Meinhard Agnes G. , Foster Mary K.
Published: May 2021

[Paragraph 1 of Introduction]: There are an estimated 200,000 nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations in Canada today offering a wide array of services to all segments of the population, ranging from food banks, women’s shelters, children’s
aid societies, and immigrant service organizations to environmental protection agencies, opera companies and sporting societies (Browne, 1996). A significant, but unknown, percentage of voluntary organizations are led by women and governed by boards that are predominantly made up of women. Despite the 2 pervasiveness of these organizations, there has been little research focusing on them. We seek to redress this neglect by comparing 351 women’s voluntary organizations to 294 ‘other’ (gender neutral) voluntary organizations. Specifically, this paper investigates whether there are differences in attitudes, behaviours and perceptions between the leaders of women’s voluntary organizations and the leaders of ‘other’ voluntary organizations regarding: 1) perceptions of the environment; 2) outlook for the future; 3) perceptions of the impact of the external environment on the organization; 4) organizational changes made in response to environmental pressures; and 5) collaborative behaviour and attitudes.

Keywords: CVSS, Centre for Voluntary Sector Studies, Working Paper Series,TRSM, Ted Rogers School of Management

Citation:
Les effets des programmes d’été de littératie: Les théories sur les opportunités d’apprentissage et les élèves « non traditionnels » dans les écoles de langue française en Ontario
Authors: Davies Scott , Aurini Janice , Milne Emily , Jean-Pierre Johanne
Published: May 2021

According to studies from the United States and English Canada, student achievement gaps grow over the summer months when children are not attending school, but summer literacy interventions can reduce those gaps. This paper presents data from a quasi-experiment conducted in eight Ontario French language school boards in 2010, 2011 and 2012 for 682 children in grades 1-3. Growth in literacy test scores between June and September are compared for 361 attendees of summer literacy programs and 321 control students. Summer program recruits initially had lower prior literacy scores and grades, and tended to hail from relatively disadvantaged social backgrounds. Yet, summer programs narrowed those pre-existing gaps. Effect sizes from a variety of regression and propensity score matching models ranged from .32 to .58, which is quite sizeable by the standards of elementary school interventions and summer programs. Effects were stronger among students whose parents reported not speaking French exclusively at home. Our paper considers learning opportunity theory in light of the “non-traditional” student in Ontario French language schools.
Welcome to Canada? A critical review and assessment of Canada’s fast-changing immigration policies : a literature review
Authors: Ali Lotf Ali Jan
Published: May 2021

Since July 1st, 2012, Canada’s immigration system has been undergoing a significant and rapid transformation. This transformation has created a cloud of uncertainty for many prospective immigrants and unpredictability for policy analysts, non-state actors, scholars, and other stakeholders. While family reunification, economic immigration, and asylum for refugees have, in the past, enabled Canada to step up as a global leader, today concerns are growing that recent policy shifts are making Canada less desirable, are unfair to migrants and their families, and are resulting in destruction of its international reputation and long-held leadership in immigrant integration and settlement. The purpose of this paper is to build upon Alboim and Cohl’s Maytree report and review of both proposed and effective immigration policies from between July 2012 and July 2014. It describes some of the major policy amendments and evaluate their potential impact on all involved parties.
Donating behaviour and attitudes: an exploratory study of the differences in age cohorts
Authors: Meinhard Agnes G. , Foster Mary K.
Published: May 2021

Given the decrease in government support of the voluntary sector, non-profit organizations will be increasing their fund-raising activity. This exploratory study investigates the differences in donating behaviour and attitudes among younger (18-34) and older (35+) Ontarians.
Keywords: CVSS, Centre for Voluntary Sector Studies, Working Paper Series, TRSM, Ted Rogers School of Management
Assessing Canada’s Support of International Students A Comprehensive Review of Canada’s Retention and Settlement of its “Model Immigrants”
Authors: Dauwer Zaheer A.
Published: May 2021

The aim of this research paper is to present the findings of an extensive literature review related to barriers international students experience transitioning to employment and permanent residency in Canada. International students who wish to work in Canada temporarily have difficulty receiving employment because of limited co-operative education opportunities and a lack of professional networks. The lack of settlement services, the numerous complexities of immigration policies, and the minimal awareness among students hinder the process for these individuals to immigrate to Canada permanently. These realities hold significant policy implications for the federal and provincial levels of government because Canada continues to admit educated and skilled labour in order to address national priorities such as long-term labour shortage and population decline. International students, especially those who hope to secure employment and permanency in Canada, are an attractive population, given the Canadian education and social capital they have received upon completion of their studies. This report will also provide a comprehensive review of several best practices and policy suggestions in addressing the challenges described above. Additionally, I will offer some practical recommendations for those involved in this transition process. In section I, a brief overview of policies related to the retention of international students is presented, and in Section II, I provide the findings of more than twenty fundamental research studies representing a diverse group of students from all levels of study, nationalities and gender studying in different regions of Canada. Section III reviews policy suggestions in research literature related to settlement support for international students. Finally, I provide practical recommendations informed by research and based on evidence-based results.
Advancing biomimetic materials through ISO standards
Authors: Hoeller Norbert , Salustri Filippo A.
Published: May 2021

This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities of developing standards for biomimetic materials, based on the authors experience with International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/Technical Committee 266 Biomimetics. With the expansion of global trade, international standards are increasingly called on to protect the interests of consumers, improve business productivity and facilitate trade. In the past, standards typically addressed form/fit/function specifications and were associated with mature industries. Recently some ISO standards are focusing on processes, quality and consistency, which can support advances in emerging fields. ISO has the potential to advance biomimetic materials and biomimetics in general by developing and promoting frameworks that reflect the evolving nature of biomimetics.
Bilateral trade agreements and the feasibility of multilateral free trade
Authors: Saggi Kamal , Yildiz Halis
Published: May 2021

We studied how the pursuit of bilateral free-trade agreements (FTAs) affects the likelihood of achieving multilateral free trade. We derive and compare the stable Nash equilibria of two games of trade liberalization: in the FTA game, each country can either form an FTA with one of its trading partners or both of them or none of them, whereas in the (restricted) No FTA game, purely bilateral FTAs are not permitted. The major result is that there exist circumstances under which the freedom to pursue (discriminatory) bilateral FTAs is necessary for achieving multilateral free trade.
Development of an AI Ecosystem for AR Applications Within Aerospace
Authors: Venkatesh Vishaal
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this paper is to develop an Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem, to effectively introduce a dynamic approach for Augmented Reality (AR) based instruction modules through predictive machine learning algorithms. The main applications explored are the manufacturing and maintenance sectors within the Aerospace industry. This paper explores the possibility of implementing an innovative process of integrating efficient data handling methodologies and machine learning techniques through a micro-level coordinate system approach. ML algorithms which are expected to have high prediction accuracies have been analyzed and a proof of concept prototype has been developed with a selected algorithm. There are various applications within AR based manufacturing/maintenance instructions in the Aerospace industry, the use cases span from aircraft part manufacturing & maintenance, CAD modelling, part assembly and routine maintenance within the International Space Station (ISS). The research study in this thesis looks to optimize the current AR model-based animation techniques by incorporating AI methodologies throughout the overall process. The current techniques include: Using 3D image information from calibration markers, Teleconference setting for improved communication and Mobile viewing & prototyping unknown surfaces using the HoloLens. This paper proposes an innovative methodology that current techniques can adapt to improve efficiencies and capabilities
The Role of Competence in Outcomes for Children and Youth: An Approach for Mental Health
Authors: Stuart Carol , Carty William
Published: May 2021

Executive Summary
The primary goal of this project was to establish what exists in the education and training of entry-level child and youth care (CYC) practitioners in Ontario regarding evidence-based competencies focusing on mental health issues. To determine how CYC practice and evidence-based treatment and practices are related the project examined what competencies are required in CYC practice, what competencies are required in CYC practice specific to mental health practice, and how college and university education programs are training CYC practitioners to implement evidence-based practices. Additionally the project provided forums for educators and mental health providers to discuss their impressions, ideas and beliefs as to what future strategies are required to ensure that CYC education and practices are evolving to include the skills necessary to implement evidence-based treatments and practices (EBT and EBP).
Branding Higher Education for Student Recruitment: A Shift From Academia to Career-Focused Education
Authors: Sebben Alexandra
Published: May 2021

This major research paper analyzes the data coded across Ryerson’s digital and social media student recruitment platforms to identify what main messages Ryerson communicates during application and enrollment periods for students. The following research questions help guide the study: What messages does Ryerson communicate about itself in the mission statement and recruitment platforms in Why Ryerson’s Facebook page, Why Ryerson’s blog posts and the Undergraduate tab on Ryerson’s website? In what ways do Ryerson’s primary branding messages change across its different social media and digital platforms? Hsieh and Shannon’s (2005) conventional qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data coded in Ryerson’s mission statement, the Undergraduate tab on the Ryerson website, the Why Ryerson Facebook page and the Why Ryerson blog during the Ontario University Fair and March Break Open House student recruitment time periods. The study led to identify the main messages Ryerson communicates during student recruitment time periods and additional patterns and themes that were not directly informed by the literature.
Death comes to town, irreverent humour, and accessibility for the blind and low-visioned
Authors: Aspevig Kristen , Pedersen Isabel
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on described video (DV), which makes television accessible to persons who are blind or who have low vision by providing voice-over descriptions of shows. The article highlights the lack of DV content in Canada and outlines the factors inhibiting more DV production, including policy, the commercial and organizational structure of television, and the established conventions that were developed for certain genres (e.g., documentary and drama). It uses the described version of the recent CBC mini-series Death Comes to Town, created by the comedy troupe Kids in the Hall, to illustrate how different genres of television, such as comedy, require unconventional styles of description to convey their full cultural meaning. Finally, it argues that true accessibility and participation in national media culture for people who are blind or have low vision, as mandated in Canadian and international law, depend on adequate DV.
From Philanthropic Strategy to Strategic Philanthropy: Selected Canadian Case Studies
Authors: Foster Mary , Meinhard Agnes , Berger Ida , Wright Pike
Published: May 2021

The rapidly growing literature investigating corporate social responsibility and corporate philanthropy attests to the world-wide interest in this trend, both from an academic perspective and as a legitimate component of commercial success (Burson-Marsteller, 2000; Waddock & Graves, 1997). As Marx (1999) points out, the evolution of corporate philanthropy from donation programs to strategic philanthropy has been well documented in the nonprofit literature, particularly as it relates to US corporations, and indeed research interest in this topic dates back to the 1930s and 1940s (Carroll, 1999). Smith (1994) suggests that most US corporations established philanthropic foundations in the 1960s to demonstrate their obligation to support the American version of the social contract. Part of that contract involved the separation of profit, nonprofit and government roles.
Keywords: CVSS, Centre for Voluntary Sector Studies, Working Paper Series, TRSM, Ted Rogers School of Management
Front Page Challenge: A case study examining what the ethnic media promises and what it delivers
Authors: Lindgren April
Published: May 2021

The editors and publishers of ethnic newspapers acknowledge the importance of reporting local news in helping their readers understand Canadian society. Yet detailed analyses of news content produced by ethnic media organizations often find that information that fosters understanding of life in Canada takes second place to news from the group‟s home country. This study investigates the local news content published about the Greater Toronto Area in the Chinese-language newspaper Ming Pao(Toronto-area edition) and identifies a significant imbalance in the mix of local news versus homeland news from China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The author argues that newcomers trying to understand their adopted place would benefit from access to more extensive and varied local news and suggests that providing journalists who work in ethnic news media with greater opportunities for professional development would be one way to achieve this goal. Programs could include journalism skills workshops as well as seminars that explore the role of local news in helping immigrants adapt. Professional development sessions would also bring together journalists from different ethnocultural communities to discuss the challenges they face, develop joint projects, and acquaint editors and publishers with the latest research on the role of local news in fostering intercultural understanding.
Toward a Parametric Model for Major Household Systems Performance
Authors: Rogers Damian A. S. , Salustri Filippo A. , Hoeller Norbert
Published: May 2021

With the residential sector representing approximately 16.6% of total energy consumption in Canada (OEE, 2006) and 21% in the United States(DOE, 2008), decisions that homeowners make on upgrades in their homes can have a large impact on national energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions. Since there remains a large amount of aging housing stock in Canada and worldwide, it is important to focus on educating the homeowners themselves in order to have a positive effect on home renovation projects. In fact, many studies have been conducted to survey and estimate the current state of national building stock in: Canada (Parekh, 2005), U.S.A. (Persily et al, 2006), Europe (Petersdorf et al, 2006), and Japan (Shimoda et al, 2003).These databases of building stock can help to identify major areas needing renovations in order to decrease residential total energy usage. Also, inclusion of these databases into the model would help to identify the best choice of defaults for a given user, based on information from the databases.
Synthesis of Metal-Coordinating Arenediynes and Study of their Reactivity in Bergman Cyclization
Authors: Al-Karmi Salma.
Published: May 2021

The Bergman cycloaromatization (BC) in which a cis-alkene-1,2-diyne (enediyne) cyclizes to form a p-benzyne diradical, typically is a very endothermic reaction, requiring a substantial amount of energy (i.e. high temperature) for it to proceed. This reaction received very little attention until a decade after its discovery, when the natural enediynes were isolated and shown to be the most active antitumor agents every discovered. Having BC at the heart of their mode of action, these natural enediynes have been very challenging to mimic from synthetic standpoints. Of particular interest is to be able to design and synthesize an enediyne that is stable at room temperature, while also being capable of being triggered to undergo BC under ambient conditions. Although a relatively new concept, metal-induced BC reactions have generally been known to decrease the demanding energy barrier. The work presented here describes several synthetic strategies towards arenediyne crown eithers and the synthesis of several arenediyne hydrazone/Schiff base ligands with extended n-systems. These synthesized enediynes are useful ligands, capable of metal-cordination and hence potentially decreasing the BC energy barrier. BC reactions of enediyne intermediates are also reported.
Reliability of soldered joints for aerospace applications
Authors: Desrochers Brigitte
Published: May 2021

Known to be highly reliable, Tin-Lead (SnPb) solders have long been used in commercial and aerospace electronic assemblies due to their ability to withstand thermo-mechanical fatigue. A number of constitutive and thermo-mechanical life models for SnPb soldered joints can be used to determine whether a given board design meets the reliability requirements of a system.

Known to be highly reliable, Tin-Lead (SnPb) solders have long been used in commercial and aerospace electronic assemblies due to their ability to withstand thermo-mechanical fatigue. A number of constitutive and thermo-mechanical life models for SnPb soldered joints can be used to determine whether a given board design meets the reliability requirements of a system.Due to environmental and toxicological concerns, government legislations worldwide now limit the use of Pb in manufacturing processes. Therefore, the aerospace industry must understand the reliability of proposed Pb-free alternatives prior to using them in the aerospace applications. In order to improve the space-readiness of Pb-free solders, a well-rounded collection of space-specific test results must be compiled and test-verified predictive life models must be developed. Finally, quality control processes associated with manufacturing, handling, and repairing Pb-free solders will have to be created before the space industry can make the transition from SnPb to Pb-free solders.
Finite element analysis of middle cervical spine
Authors: Bahramshahi Noushin
Published: May 2021

The spinal cord may be injured through various spinal column injury patterns. However, the relationship between column injury pattern and cord damage is not well understood. This investigation was conducted to develop a detailed, asymmetric three-dimensional finite element model of the C3-C5 cervical spine. The model was validated by comparing the simulation results obtained in this study with experimental published data. Upon validation of the model, the spinal cord was included into the model the simulation were performed. The disc bulge in the model with spinal cord were measured and compared with the results of the model without spinal cord. The results showed that inclusion of the spinal cord reduced the amount of lateral disc bulged. The results of the analysis of the model with spinal cord showed that in compression, the anterior surface of spinal cord sees more displacement, stress and strain that posterior surface and vice versa for flexion/extension.
Imaginal exposure for chronic worry : the role of anxious arousal and imaginal sensory information
Authors: Henderson Leigh Curtis
Published: May 2021

This study examined the effect of exposure script references to anxious physiological sensations and the five senses upon anxious arousal during a single 30-minute imaginal exposure. Forty-five high worriers were randomized to two conditions: Comprehensive (all reference types included) or Limited (only visual and auditory references included). Anxious arousal was measured via heart rate (HR), skin conductance level (SCL) and self-report. Both conditions exhibited increased arousal patterns from baseline. SCL did not significantly decrease in either condition during exposure. For self-reported anxiety, Comprehensive participants exhibited significant decreases throughout exposure; but Limited participants demonstrated significant increases. Comprehensive participants reported significantly greater anticipated ability to cope after exposure. Results are discussed in the context of emotional processing theory.
Aerodynamic Performance of the Inboard Elevon on a Blended-Wing-Body Aircraft
Authors: Jackson Alexander Gordon
Published: May 2021

The objectives of this research are to examine the effects of trailing edge modifications of the inboard elevon of a blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft, the goal being to try and reduce the hinge moment of the inboard elevon through selective aerodynamic design. A computational model was built for 60⁰ and 70⁰ beveled trailing edge modifications, as well as no modification. The inboard elevon was deflected positive 5⁰ and negative 5⁰. The numerical solutions were obtained using an implicit solver and inviscid model. The results of this research showed that, through the use of a beveled trailing edge on the inboard elevon, a maximum of 112% reduction in the hinge moment could be achieved for the negative deflection case and a maximum of 88% reduction in the hinge moment for the positive deflection case. The results showed that there was a significant improvement in the hinge moments, with less that a 2% average change in the overall aerodynamic performance of the BWB for the inviscid models.
Development and multiple mode control of modular and reconfigurable robot
Authors: Zhang Hongwei
Published: May 2021

There is a strong desire for robots to manipulate in uncontrolled environments. In uncontrolled environments, the robot has to adapt to the world consisting of only partially known or unknown objects and tasks, and real-time constraints. The capability of robots working in active or passive modes and switching between them helps enabling the robots to work in unstructured environments. Joint torque sensing is essential for implementing multiple mode control of robots. Though there have been a number of means of joint torque sensing, the existing joint sensing techniques have diverse limitations, such as in installation, reliability, cost, and noise immunity. This dissertation work develops a new joint torque sensing method for a modular and reconfigurable robot (MRR) with harmonic drive joints and provides solutions to multiple mode control of MRR based on the proposed sensing technique.
This research consists of two main parts. In the first part, a novel mathematical model for compliance of harmonic drives has been proposed. The proposed model captures not only the nonlinear stiffness but also the hysteresis phenomenon of harmonic drive transmission. Based on the developed harmonic drive compliance model, a joint torque estimation method using position measurements is developed. Torque estimation using position measurements provides an advantage of noise immunity to the estimated joint torque. Using the compliance of harmonic drives instead of an additional elastic component does not change the joint dynamics. Building upon the new torque estimation technique, a multiple working mode control algorithm for MRR is developed and experimentally validated.
The objective of the second part is to make the wrist suitable for dexterous manipulation in unstructured environments, such as door opening. A robust adaptive controller is developed for tracking control of the wrist in active mode; and a new interactive force compensation technique is proposed based on force sensor measurement, enabling passive working mode of the compact wrist without using mechanical solutions, which not only saves weight and volume, but also avoids losing tracking of the joints’ position when switching from passive mode to active mode. Experiments on a prototype wrist have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Synthesis Of Nanoparticle Networks By Femtosecond Laser Ablation Of Microparticles
Authors: Waraich Paineet S.
Published: May 2021

The process of laser ablation has been adapted to generate nonoparticles from microparticles of the material, referred to as laser ablation of microparticles (LAM). The LAM process has been shown to generate finer nanoparticles than were previously possible through laser ablation of solid targets. In this thesis, a method of generating a 3D nanoparticle network using the LAM process has been proposed using a femtosecond laser. 3D naoparticles were successfully generated through ablation of microparticle samples of lead oxide, nickel oxide and zinc oxide. The size of the nanoparticles in the generated network was significantly reduced in comparison with similar networks generated through laser ablation of solid targets. The method has been further extended to generate a unique alloy nanomaterial through the ablation of the microparticle containing powders of two metals (Aluminum and Nickel Oxide).
Swimwear: Needs Assessment and Prototype Development for Special Needs Children
Authors: Chau Pui Yee
Published: May 2021

Children with complex medical issues often require a placement of a tube known as a central venous line in their major artery. The insertion prohibits such individuals from experiencing the physical and psychological benefits of water activities. This qualitative and quantitative study examined the swimwear needs of children fitted with a central venous line based on a user analysis using Lamb and Kallal’s (1992) Functional Expressive Aesthetic Consumer Needs Model of design attributes. The study was conducted in 3 phases: user analysis, design development, and field-testing. User analysis results revealed that the 7 participants (4 parents, 3 children) rated function as the most important design attribute, followed equally by expressive and aesthetic elements. The second phase produced a prototype that incorporated participants’ needs and preferences. Field testing concluded that the prototype fulfilled expressive and aesthetic needs but only partially fulfilled functional needs.
The Specimens Box: A Case Study in Cataloguing at George Eastman House
Authors: Lutek Tasha Ann
Published: May 2021

This paper considers the theoretical and practical implications of cataloguing with The Museum Systems database. Using the Specimens Box as an example, a box containing a unique group of objects related to the history of photographic process located at George Eastman House photographic collection, the paper covers areas of archive theory, object arrangement, and the responsibilities held by the cataloguer. It is broken into three sections: Description, which provides the background of the Specimens Box; Analysis, which shows the various trajectories of meaning as objects enter an archive and are cataloged: and Methodology, which details my steps taken to understand and catalogue the Specimens Box.
A computational study of phase separation in polymer solutions under a concentration gradient
Authors: Jiang Baitao
Published: May 2021

Anisotropic porous polymeric materials fabricated from the phase separation method via spinodal decomposition are used in various practical engineering applications. Examples include anisotropic porous polymeric membranes for separation processes and holographic polymer dispersed liquid crystal films for electro-optical devices. We have studied numerically the formation of anisotropic porous polymeric materials by imposing an initial linear concentration gradient across a model polymer solution. The mathematical model is composed of the non-linear Cahn-Hilliard theory to describe spinodal decomposition dynamics, the Flory-Huggins theory for polymer solution thermodynamics, and the slow mode theory combined with the Rouse law for polymer diffusion. The computer simulations include uniform (no gradient) and non-uniform (with an initial concentration gradient) cases. For the non-uniform cases, the initial concentration gradient is placed at three different regions of polymer sample for the purpose of comparison. All the simulation results are in good agreement with published experimental observations which are reported from the applications of porous polymeric membranes. The structure development shows that an anisotropic porous morphology forms when an initial linear concentration gradient is applied to the model polymer solution.
Mapping and modelling urban solar energy potentials using geospacial data: A Case Study of Ryerson University Campus
Authors: Forgione David
Published: May 2021

Determining the solar energy potential on a surface depends on geographical location, prevailing meteorological conditions, size, shape and orientation of a surface. In urban areas shading is an important parameter, given the density of buildings and must be considered in an evaluation of available irradiation. This thesis develops an integrated workflow for modelling and mapping solar energy potentials in urban areas. This was accomplished through a case study of a typical large urban centre - The City of Toronto, using 3-D building models and selected software tools. The developed workflow was applied and successfully modelled the solar energy potential of buildings in the selected case study area. The results allowed for further characterization of the main factors affecting solar energy potentials on building surfaces in urban areas. This preliminary study indicates that, in comparison to HVAC systems and green roofs, shading may be a less important factor to consider when estimating solar energy potentials in some urban settings.
Evaluating the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction on cognitive function and quality of life in nondemented older adults : a pilot study
Authors: Mallya Sasha
Published: May 2021

Adults over the age of 65 years are now the fastest growing segment of the Canadian population. Although individual differences exist, aging is commonly associated with impairments in executive function. The present pilot study investigated the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program on improving executive functioning in older adults, while additionally decreasing perceived stress and improving psychological wellbeing. It was hypothesized that compared with an active control group, the MBSR group would display significant improvements in executive functioning, mood, self-esteem, and perceived stress. Participants were randomly assigned to either MBSR (n=40) or an active control group (n=32). Results suggest that MBSR is associated with significantly enhanced quality of life compared with the control condition. No additional significant results were found. A full-scale study will be necessary to clarify the present results.
Web service-based grid resource discovery
Authors: Saadat Bokhari Syed
Published: May 2021

This thesis proposes a single and scalable web-based model for grid resource discovery for the Internet. The proposed resource discovery model contains the metadata and resource finder web services. The information of resource finder web services is kept in the repositories that are distributed in the application layer of [sic] Internet. The resource finder web services will be discovered by sending queries to the repositories in a similar way as the DNS protocol. The underlying technology for implementation of the two architectures of this model is introduced.
Cancer worry interference and health service utilization in women with Lynch Syndrome: the role of trusting one's physician
Authors: Torbit Lindsey
Published: May 2021

Lynch syndrome (LS) is a genetic predisposition to adult-onset of multiple cancers. Some high risk women report significant cancer-specific distress (Ritvo et al., 1999) and highly anxious high risk women may utilize more medical services than those who are less anxious (e.g., Bish et al., 2002). Trust in one's physician has been found to be associated with less anxiety and distress in patients and a reduction in medical visits. The current study examined the association between intolerance of uncertainty and prior cancer diagnosis with cancer-specific worry interference and medical utilization in women with LS (N=128) via self-report measures. Additionally, trust in physician was examined as a moderator. Findings indicated higher intolerance of uncertainty was associated with more worry interference, and having more trust in one’s physician moderated this relationship. Having a greater number of prior cancer diagnoses was also associated with both outcomes, but trust in physician did not moderate these relationships. The implications for potential intervention are discussed.