bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving around the world : Russian Jews from Israel in Toronto
Authors: Soibelman Lea
Published: June 2021

This study is focused on the immigration related experiences of Russian Jews who left the Former Soviet Union for Israel in the late 1980s and early 1990s and arrived in Toronto in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It explores the unique character of this cohort, their settlement in Toronto as well as their identities and transnational practices. During the last two decades of the 20th century there has been a continuous influx of Russian Jews from Israel to Toronto. This ongoing immigrant cohort has become the major source of recent Jewish immigrants to Toronto. It is usually referred as "a secondary migration of Russian Jews". This cohort of Russian Jews has notable features which have affected their adjustment and integration in Toronto. The study draws on a variety of sources including the examination of academic literature, media articles, personal observations, and interviews with recent immigrants.
A hidden history of early colour photography in Britain: the photographs of Agnes B. Warburg (1872-1953)
Authors: Kaluznick Hana
Published: June 2021

Agnes Beatrice Warburg (1872-1953) was a British amateur photographer and active member of the Royal Photographic Society (RPS). The official collection of her works is housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and totals nearly 1000 black and white and colour photographs. Between about 1890 and 1949, Warburg experimented with nine different colour photographic and printing techniques, established the RPS Colour Group in 1927, and invented her own process called the War-type in 1918. This thesis will examine the hitherto untold history of Agnes B. Warburg, and narrate a history of early colour photography between 1907 and 1945, using her body of work as a reference. This approach allows us to see how amateur photographic practices informed and perpetuated the artistic and technical development of colour photography in the early 20th century, and in doing so provides us with a deeper understanding of photographic history.
Virtual revisions and the vernacular image: the photographs of Elizabeth Howe Bliss
Authors: Fogle Kate M.
Published: June 2021

In the waning years of the Progressive Era, an American social worker named Elizabeth Howe Bliss (1886-1974) traveled to Oklahoma and Kentucky on behalf of the National Child Labor Committee (NCLC) to report on child labourers and their education needs. During her investigations, Bliss photographed her subjects and surroundings, and these images, among others made in New York City and war-torn France, were recently acquired by the Smithsonian Institution despite their vernacular status. This thesis establishes a biographical trajectory for the previously unresearched life of Bliss and considers the bulk of, and impetus behind, her photographs, with an additional focus on those printed in The Child Labor Bulletin in 1917 and 1919, respectively. Further, this thesis argues for the virtual exhibition of vernacular images as a means for increasing their visibility amongst a diverse online audience, while simultaneously challenging norms that have persisted in downplaying their photo-historical value.
Safety performance assessment of freeway interchanges, ramps and ramp terminals
Authors: Parajuli Bishnu Prasad
Published: June 2021

Existing safety performance functions for mainline interchanges and ramps of Ontario freeways are updated using negative binomial regression. The functional forms of the updated models are different from the existing models. In addition, new safety performance functions for ramp terminal sites are developed.

Network screening to identify sites in need of safety treatment has been illustrated using two different methods, one based on a potential for safety improvement (PSI) index and, the other based on an index of a high proportion of a specific accident type. A comparison for rankings for 3-legged signalized ramp terminals by the two methods indicates reasonably consistent results, with some key differences. The method of screening for high proportion of specific accidents can be a possible alternative to PSI index method where safety performance functions and/or traffic volumes are not available since, unlike the PSI Index method, it does not require these inputs.
Flexural Behaviour Of ECC Coupling Slab In Coupled Shear Wall Structure
Authors: Issani Rizwan A.
Published: June 2021

Flexural stiffness or effective width of floor slab acting as coupling beam is very important for the analysis of Coupled Shear Wall (CSW) systems. New generation of high performance concretes provide an alternative to conventional concrete to enhance the performance of coupling slabs. This research investigates the flexural behaviour of coupling slabs incorporating Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) compared to conventional Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC). The high strain capacity and low crack width makes ECC an ideal material for coupling slab. Non-linear coupling action of ECC slabs is investigated experimentally with small-scale models having variable geometric parameters under monotonic loading. The performance is judged based on moment-rotation response, flexural stiffness/effective width, deflection, cracking, strain development and failure modes. Design charts for flexural stiffness/effective width of coupling slabs are presented in pre-cracking/cracking/post-yielding stages. CSW systems with ECC are found stronger and ductile than their SCC counterparts confirming the viability of constructing such structures.
Exploring the transferability of crash modification factors: case studies on passing lanes and dual rumble strips on Ontario two-lane highways
Authors: Almasizadeh Shahram
Published: June 2021

The safety effects of design and other highway improvement options are specified through Crash Modification Factors (CMFs). CMFs for two low cost safety treatment measures -- passing lanes and dual application of center line and shoulder rumble strips -- are explored separately in this paper. Using data provided from previous studies conducted in the United States, and generalized linear modeling, the transferability of the US-based knowledge on safety effects of passing lanes and rumble strips for application in Ontario was explored. It was found that the safety effects were consistent for passing lanes in Michigan and Ontario and a Crash Modification Function was developed relating the CMF to length of passing lane for the combined data. The dual rumble strip effects were also reasonably consistent with results from a limited analysis of Ontario data and are recommended for application in the province.
Quality Control Methodologies for 3D Geometric Primitives Derived from LiDAR Data
Authors: Fidera Arthur
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study is to develop algorithms with a computational ability to reliably establish with precision and accuracy the critical parameters of a solid object in space. Utilizing a least-squares adjustment method and laser scanned data, a three-dimensional computer assisted drawing (3D CAD) model of an object (e.g., machinery component) may be then used in the redesign, retrofitting, and updating of technical drawings. This thesis presents a unique approach to point cloud data modeling and visualization as well as numerical analysis based on stability criteria. Several statistical techniques from the literature are reviewed and implemented dealing with numerical methods using the stability of matrices as a criterion. The thesis discusses topics ranging from basic statistical analysis to advanced topics such as Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and condition numbers. Various theories and techniques of obtaining stability criteria are described and analyzed. Test of point cloud data revealed that combining standard numerical analysis with Condition Numbers allows for quantifying the goodness-of-fit of the results and for predicting the behavior of the algorithms.
Performance of full scale self consolidating concrete structural elements in shear, bond and under corrosion attack
Authors: Hassan Assem adel abdel Aal
Published: June 2021

This research program focuses on investigating the shear resistance, bond characteristics, and corrosion performance of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) compared to those of normal concrete (NC). The shear strength, cracking behavior, and deflection characteristics were tested in full-scale beams. A total of twenty reinforced concrete beams, with no shear reinforcements, were tested under mid-span concentrated load until shear failure occurred. The experimental test parameters included concrete type/coarse aggregate content, beam depth and the longitudinal reinforcing steel ratio (ρw). The beam depth ranged from 150 to 750 mm while the shear span-to-depth ratio (a/d) was kept constant in all beams, The two longitudinal reinforcing steel ratios used were 1% and 2%. The performance of SCC/NC beams was evaluated based on the results of crack pattern, crack widths, loads at the first flexure/diagonal cracking, ultimate shear resistance, post-cracking shear resistance/ductility, load-deflection response, and failure modes. Code-based equations or procedures are used to predict the crack width, first flexural cracking moment/load, and ultimate shear resistance as well as to simulate load-deflection response. The bond strength of reinforcing bars embedded in full-scale heavy reinforcing beams (4000 mm length x 1200 mm depth x 300 mm width) made with SCC was investigated and compared with that of NC. The flowability of SCC mixture through the dense reinforcement was visually monitored from a transparent formwork. The bond stress was tested for bars located at three different heights (150 mm, 510 mm, and 870 mm from the bottom of the beam) and at different concrete ages (1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days).

The bond stress-free end slip relationship, the top bar effect, and the effect of age on bond stress were investigated in both SCC and NC beams. Bond stresses predicted based on some major Codes were compared with those obtained from experiments. The corrosion of steel reinforcement embedded in full-scale SCC beams was investigated and compared to that embedded in NC beams. The corrosion performance of 400 mm width x 363 mm depth x 2340 mm length beams containing epoxy and non-epoxy coated stirrups was monitored by partial immersion in a sodium chloride solution and an impressed current. Half-cell potential tests were implemented at 25 different locations on each beam to evaluate the probability of steel corrosion along the beam length/perimeter. At the same locations where the half-cell potential tests were implemented, the chloride ion content near the bar surface was measured to study the variation of the chloride-ion penetrability along the beam length/perimeter. The mass loss and bar diameter degradation along the length of each bar were investigated at the end of the test. Predicted rebar mass loss due to corrosion based on Faraday’s law was compared with experimental mass loss for each beam.
An Enhanced Numerical Model to Simulate Nonlinear Continuous Wave Ultrasound Propagation and the Resulting Temperature Response
Authors: Mashouf Shahram
Published: June 2021

In this work a nonlinear CW ultrasound field propagation model based on a second-order operator splitting approach is studied and a number of significant enhancements are introduced and implemented. In this model the ultrasound field is calculated and propagated plane by plane and the effects of diffraction, nonlinearity and absorption are applied independently over incremental steps. This work completes the preceding works (Christopher and Parker 1991, Tavakkoli et al. 1998, Zemp et al. 2003, Williams et al. 2006) by introducing an arbitrary source geometry and excitation definition, full diffraction solution, enhanced pressure, enhanced power deposition rate and temperature prediction capabilities. The result is a particularly useful tool in carrying out simulations of high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) that includes temperature rise predictions. Comparisons are made with other codes in both linear and nonlinear regimes. Different dynamics of lesion formation are obtained in linear versus nonlinear models, specially at the onset of lesion creation during HIFU exposure.
The Use Of Wollastonite to Enhance Fresh and Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Jahim Hyder
Published: June 2021

Wollastonite is a natural material that consists of calcium silica oxides. This research program focused on evaluating the feasibility of using wollastonite in concrete or mortar. The experimental program for this study is designed to investigate the strength conribution for mortar cubes with wollastonite at 5 and 10% replacement of sand or Porland Cement (PC). The compressive strength has shown remarkable improvment in all ages compared with control mix when there was 5% sand replacement. The study also tested the compresiive strenght for concrete with the same levelsof wolllastonite as in mortar. The compressive strength fo cyclinders having 5% and 10% wollastonite powder as cement replacement was not improved compared with the control mix. Furthermore, the study tested the possibility of using wollastonite as mineral filler in Self Consolidation Concrete (SCC). Mixture of SCC were designed with the levels 0, 8, 10% of wollastonite powder. The fresh properties were evaluated using the slump flow.
Utilizing GIS in the development of detailed distribution urban drainage models
Authors: Alam Zakia  R.
Published: June 2021

Stormwater management practices can mitigate the undesirable impacts of urbanization. Urban drainage models can play a significant role in comprehensive evaluation of stormwater management systems. This thesis presents a methodology for the development of a detailed distributed urban drainage model using Geographic Information System (GIS) databases. The approach incorporates delineation of spatial variables (subcatchment outlets, width, slope etc.) and other model inputs from digital data and assigns them to the GIS database by executing developed Python 2.7 scripts. The proposed methodology is applied on a case study area in Mississauga, Ontario. Observed rainfall data are used as model input and simulation is performed using PCSWMM 5.1.1279. The model performance is evaluated by comparing the uncalibrated simulated discharge with the observed one. The simulated hydrographs are of good fit with the observed hydrographs. The evaluation criteria justify the use of extracted and assumed parameters and the reliability of the developed methodology.
Economic Heroes, 'Bogus' Asylum Claimants, and Genuine Refugees: a Discourse-Historical Analysis of Recent Changes to Immigration Policy, 2010 to 2012
Authors: Bezic Samantha
Published: June 2021

The neoliberalization and securitization of immigration policy have accelerated in recent years. My goal is to demonstrate this premise. Using the Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA), I chart the contemporary history of Canadian immigration policy developments and how subjects of immigration policy have been discursively produced. I then introduce changes made to immigration policy between January 2010 and June 2012, how such changes have been introduced and how they have been justified by the current government. I do this by applying the DHA to a textual sample of parliamentary speeches, CIC news releases, and articles from two major newspapers. The three main discursive policy themes explored are (1) The current economic stream is too cumbersome for the new economy (2) The refugee determination system is in need of repair and (3) Canada's immigration system is in danger of being undermined due to illicit activities. Justification patterns within these discourses are analyzed.
Simulation of fate & transport of contaminants in groundwater for supporting site assessment
Authors: Abbasi Mubashar
Published: June 2021

Computer simulations have become a useful part of mathematical modeling of many natural systems in science and engineering. Simulations can be used to explore and gain new insights into new technology, and to estimate the performance of systems too complex for analytical solutions. BIOPLUME III is a numerical two-dimensional model that tracks the fate and transport of aromatic hydrocarbons. To help the environmental professional with the data management, visualization, and decision making tasks involved. Interpretations based on model analyses must recognize the significance of uncertainties in input data. Models of ground-water systems should be regarded as just one tool among many that can be used in the analysis of a ground-water quality problem. Numerical simulation can help the analyst integrate available data, evaluate conceptual models, test hypotheses pertaining to flow and quality changes, and predict system responses to alternative stresses. The models do not replace field data, but they help to guide the design of a more effective and more efficient data-collection program.
Reliability of stopping and decision sight distance at roundabouts
Authors: Faizi Jafar
Published: June 2021

The existing Stopping Sight Distance (SSD) and Decision Sight Distance (DSD) design methods for roundabouts are deterministic. This means that all of the design variables are predetermined, fixed values. This study presents a probabilistic method for the determination of SSD and DSD at roundabouts based on the equation recommended by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO 2011). The reliability-based method considers all design parameters as random variables. Three types of SSD (SSD for approaches, SSD along the circulatory lane, and SSD for exiting vehicles to the pedestrian crosswalk) were considered in this study. DSD was considered for roundabout approaches. The First-Order Second-Moment and Advanced First-Order Second-Moment methods were used to model SSD and DSD. Once the required SSD and DSD were determined, the lateral clearance requirements at every point of the roundabout were calculated.
Flexure strength prediction of closure strip between prefabricated deck slabs supported over bridge girders incorporating CFRP bars and UHPFRC
Authors: Sherif Mohtady Moataz
Published: June 2021

Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars are used in bridge decks to overcome the problem of corrosion of steel bars and concrete spalling. However, design guidelines for joints between GFRPreinforced precast deck panels supported over girders for accelerated bridge replacement is as yet unavailable. The proposed research investigates the use of GFRP bars in the closure strip between jointed precast deck panels, which is filled with ultra-high performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC). Four different bar splice lengths in the joint were considered in this study, namely:
75, 105, 135 and 165 mm, with bar splice spacing taken as 0, 75 and 100 mm. 27 specimens were constructed and tested to-collapse to determine their structural behavior and load carrying capacity. Correlation between experimental findings and available design equations for moment and shear capacities was conducted, leading to recommendations for the use of the proposed joints between precast deck panels in slab-on-girder bridges.
Optimal Control of Non-Isothermal, Batch Polymerization of Methacrylates with Specified Time, Monomer Conversion, and Average Molecular Weights
Authors: Sundaram Baranitharan Sanmuga
Published: June 2021

Optimal control policies are determined for the free radical polymerization of three different polymerization processes, in a non-isothermal batch reactor as follows: (1) bulk polymerization of n-butyl methacrylate; (2) solution polymerization of methyl methacrylate with monofunctional initiator; (3) solution polymerization of methyl methacrylate with bifunctional initiator. Four different optimal control objectives are realized for the above three processes. The objectives are: (i) maximization of monomer conversion in a specified operation time, (ii) minimization of operation time for a specified, final monomer conversation, (iii) maximization of monomer conversion for a specified, final number average polymer molecular weight, and (iv) maximization of monomer conversion for a specified, final weight average polymer molecular weight. The realization of these objectives is expected to be very useful for the batch production of polymers. To realize the above four different optimal control objectives, a genetic algorithms-based optimal control method is applied, and the temperature of heat exchange fluid inside reactor jacket is used as a control function. Necessary equations are provided in the above three processes to suitably transform the process model in the range of a specified variable other than time, and to evaluate the elements of Jacobian to help in the accurate solution of the process model. The results of this optimal control application reveal considerable improvements in the performance of the batch polymerization processes.
Bond Degradation and Residual Flexural Capacity of Corroded RC Beams
Authors: Wu Hao
Published: June 2021

An analytical model is developed to predict the residual flexural capacity of corroded RC members. This was established by first developing an analytical model to calculate the residual bond strength at steel-concrete interface. The bond model is then implemented within the framework of the moment resistance method, and a new strain compatibility analysis was developed: to account the analysis of a corroded reinforced concrete beam, to incorporate dependence of the bond response on the stress strain and damage state of the concrete and steel. Method for calculating flexural capacity of corroded RC beams is then proposed, which is based on flexural analysis of RC beams that considers the effect of bond degradation. The predicted results of these models correlated very well with results observed in various experimental studies. This indicates that those developed analytical models tend to estimate conservatively the residual bond strength and flexural capacity of corroded RC beams. .
Numerical simulation of liquid fuel prechamber ignition
Authors: Larson Levon
Published: June 2021

A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model was built that simulates the transient, compressible, reacting, multi-phase environment that exists within a reciprocating engine's combustion chamber(s). ANSYS Fluent v13.0 was used with the Euler-Lagrangian Discrete Phase Model (DPM), the Shell autoignition model, and the Large Eddy Simulation (LES) method of turbulence modeling. Validation of the spray dynamics was performed by comparing simulation results with experiments of liquid and vapour penetration length of an n-Heptane spray experiment done by Sandia National Laboratories. It was found that LES produced more accurate results than several Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) models. The Shell autoignition model was coded to function with C10.17H19.91 and compared with experimental ignition results in a Rapid Compression Machine (RCM) environment. All of the above models were then combined to simulate a directly-fueled lean-burn combustion prechamber configuration wherein the effects of spray angle, timing, and duration were studied.
Analytical and experimental investigation of cracking in two-way reinforced concrete panels
Authors: Shalmani Armin Ziari
Published: June 2021

In this study, the cracking behaviour of RC panels under a two-way loading condition is investigated analytically and experimentally. A modified FE bond layer model is introduced and shown to be much simpler to define, and yet, more accurate than perfect bond or link element bond models. FE analysis suggests a bi-linear curve for approximating the distribution of bond stresses at stabilized cracking. Several FE parametric studies are performed on a one-way tension member to obtain peak shear bond stresses, concrete tensile stresses due to internal restrained shrinkage, splitting tensile stresses caused by radial bond stresses, and the reduction in bond strength caused by longitudinal splitting cracks. The FE analysis of flexural beams suggests a new factor for estimation of the depth of effective tension area, which is defined through FE parametric study. In the experimental phase, three medium-scale RC panels are subjected to direct tension in one direction and bending in the perpendicular direction. The collected data consist of applied loads, steel and concrete stresses, crack propagation sequence, crack pattern, crack width, total elongation, and leakage observations.

The crack pattern is mainly influenced by the shape of reinforcement mesh due to the presence of splitting tensile stresses. The formation of diagonal cracks depends on principal stresses that can be influenced by reinforcement ratio, ratio of loads in two directions, and clear concrete cover to bar diameter ratio. The bond strength is significantly weakened by the formation of orthogonal cracks along reinforcing bars. The crack width is increased under repeated loading especially at the first cycle. Residual crack widths remain in place even after complete unloading. Observations indicate that the water leakage is influenced by the crack width gradient. Finally, it is shown that one-way crack prediction models underestimate the crack width of two-way panels. A new set of analytical equations is developed for the prediction of cracking load, minimum and maximum spacing of cracks, and maximum crack width in a two-way panel. These equations are shown to predict the cracking behaviour of the tested panels more accurately than any other previously proposed model.
Calibration of the Highway Safety Manual and the SafetyAnalyst Methodologies for Ontario Highways
Authors: Sabbaghi Ali
Published: June 2021

SafetyAnalyst and the Highway Safety Manual (HSM) are two tools that are expected to revolutionize highway safety analyses. A key issue that allows SafetyAnalyst and HSM to become the new standards in road safety engineering is the calibration of their safety performance functions (SPFs) across time and jurisdictions. In this study, the methodologies of SafetyAnalyst and HSM are calibrated for Ontario to evaluate the effective transferability of their SPFs to local topographical conditions. A SafetyAnalyst calibration has been completed for Ontario highways and freeways, intersections, and ramps for six years (1998-2003) of traffic and accident counts. A data set which consists of 78 kilometres of rural two-lane two-way highways and 71 three- and four-legged stop controlled intersections located in the eastern and central regions of the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) with six years (2002 to 2007) of traffic volume and collision counts has been used to evaluate the HSM SPFs to Ontario data. Several goodness-of-fit (GOF) measures are computed to assess the transferability and suitability of the crash models for applicability in Ontario. The study suggests that while most of the SafetyAnalyst SPFs for highways and ramps are not adaptable to Ontario data, the recalibrated SafetyAnalyst SPFs for intersections and also the recalibrated HSM Part C predictive models for two-lane rural highways and intersections provide satisfactory results in comparison to the crash models developed specifically for Ontario. Finally, this research highlights the substantial need for future improvements in data quality for more reliable safety performance estimations and evaluations.
Sustainable tourism in protected areas as a driver for environmental conservation and community development in Guatemala
Authors: Gonzalez Cesar  R
Published: June 2021

Developing sustainable tourism in protected areas is of interest because of their marketable settings for outdoor activities in natural environments and for their role in protecting cultural and natural assets. Managing and planning these areas for tourism poses challenges because of issues pertaining to income generation, community development, and visitor management. The region of Lake Izabal-Rio Dulce in Guatemala contains three protected areas – Cerro San Gil, Rio Dulce National Park, and Chocon Machacas – that are significant in protecting biodiversity but are not effectively managed for tourism. Through a case study and a multi-method approach to are not effectively managed for tourism. Through a case study and a multi-method approach to collect data, the perspectives of selected tourism planning and management organizations and tourists were investigated to gauge sustainable tourism initiatives and identify vulnerable zones in the protected areas. The findings show that community development has lagged, visitor management is required, and a greater extent of collaboration is needed to support sustainable management is required, and a greater extent of collaboration is needed to support sustainable tourism development.
Reliability analysis of pedestrian crossing sight distance
Authors: Karim Sadia
Published: June 2021

The main objective of this study was to calculate the required sight distance corresponding to the various probabilities of failure by considering two methods of reliability analysis. This paper presents a probabilistic approach based on such random variables as major road vehicle speed, walking speed, pedestrian observation-reaction time, the length of the crossing unit, pedestrian setback from the nearest curb of the major road. A safety margin is defined as the difference between available and required sight distances. By using the first-order second moment (FOSM) method, relationships for the mean and standard deviation of the safety margin were developed.
The advance first-order second-moment (AFOSM) was also used to find the supplied sight distance corresponding to reliability index. Comparison of two methods was done. Obtained results from the two methods were almost similar to a low coefficient of variation. Different design graphs were developed to calculate the required sight distance at a different coefficient of variation corresponding to the probability of failure and different vehicle design. Sensitivity
analysis was performed to obtain the most sensitive variable to the pedestrian crossing sight distance. It was found that vehicle speed is more sensitive to required sight distance and perception-reaction time has least effect on supplied (required) sight distance. Application of these methods is presented with two examples. This probabilistic method is valuable in designing pedestrian crossing sight distance for any preferred reliability level.
Proprietary and open source collections management systems: two case studies
Authors: Amiri Niloufar
Published: June 2021

This thesis is comprised of two case studies on the selection and implementation of systems Mimsy XG at Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and AtoM and Islandora at Ryerson University’s Archives and Special Collections. These studies highlight the changes cultural heritage institutions are currently undergoing to digitally structure, manage, and access collections data by using a relational collections management system (CMS). The findings show that the success of a CMS is largely determined by the type of cultural heritage institution implementing it (archives, libraries, and museums), the types of collections within that organisation, in addition to institutional mandates and requirements. The ways in which a CMS platform answers these requirements through the data model and proprietary or open-source implementations determine the outcome of an institutional transition to a CMS.
"A Snake Charmer with a Camera" : Nina Leen's Contributions to Life Magazine: 1940-1972
Authors: Levitsky Erin
Published: June 2021

Nina Leen (c. 1909–1995) was a Russian-born émigré photographer who worked for Life magazine from 1940–1972, contributing photographs to stories published in 374 issues. Leen’s photography received little attention following her death, as her working method, oeuvre, and character depart from those of the archetypal photojournalist. Using digital reproductions of Leen’s photographic prints and negatives from the Life Photo Collection, a full run of Life, and archival documents housed in the Time Inc. Records at the New-York Historical Society, this thesis evaluates Leen’s contributions to both Life magazine and the field of photojournalism. An introduction, literature survey, and methodological description contextualize Leen’s career. Two appendices and a list of figures present images selected in this thesis, and the issues and sections of Life in which Leen’s photographs were published. Three chapters discuss the beginning of Leen’s career and her typical approach to magazine photography, and two chapters analyze the years leading up to Life’s conclusion as a weekly magazine, when Leen held more command over her output.
Software-hardware analysis of signal feature classification algorithms
Authors: Asefi-Ghamari Hamidreza
Published: June 2021

Over the last few decades, signal feature analysis has been significantly used in a wide variety of fields. While several techniques have been proposed in the area of signal feature extraction and classification, all of these techniques are achieved by using modern computers, which rely on softwares, such as MATLAB. However, in real-time applications or portable devices, software implementation is not enough by itself, and a hardware-software co-design or fully hardware implementation needs to be considered. The selection of the right signal feature analysis tool for an application depends not only on the software performance, but also on the hardware efficiency of a method. However, there is not enough studies in existence to provide comparison of these signal feature extraction methods from the hardware implentation aspect. Therefore, the objective of this thesis is to investigate both the hardware and algorithmic perspectives of three commonly used signal feature extraction techniques: Autoregressive (AR), pole modeling, and Mel-frequency Cepstral coefficients (MFCCs). To fulfill this objective, first, the hardware analysis of AR, pole modeling, and MFCC feature extraction methods is performed by calculating the computational complexity of the mathematical equations of each method. Second the FPGA area usage of each feature extraction methods is estimated. Third, algorithmic evaluation of these three methods is performed for audio scene analysis. Once the results are obtained from the above stages, the overall performance of each feature extraction method is compared in terms of both the hardware analysis and algorithmic performances. Finally, based on the performed comparison, pole modeling feature extraction approach is proposed as the suitable method for the audio scene analysis application. The suitable method (pole modeling feature extraction) + linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier are implemented in Altera DE2 Board using Altera Nios II soft-core processor. The audio classification accuracy obtained using this implementation is achieved to be equal to the MATLAB implementation. The classification time for one audio sample is determined to be 0.1s, which is fast enough to be considered as a real-time system for audio scene analysis application.
Changing Images of the Democratic Party: an analysis of the aesthetic and philosophical underpinnings of Life's photo-essay "Happy days in Miami"
Authors: Slater Rick
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of New Journalism on the photo-essay "Happy Days in Miami" from the 21 July 1972 issue of Life Magazine. The stylistic elements of New Journalism such as scene-by-scene reconstruction, overt stylization, status details and others, are analyzed for their role in the construction of the visual and political narrative utilized in this photo-essay. Its influence on 1960s art photography as embodied by Larry Clark, Danny Lyon and the New Documents exhibition is also considered. This was analyzed through research of the various topics (New Journalism, the Presidential Convention in 1972, Life and 1960s art photography), critical readings of the photographs and original interviews with Ralph Graves, Life's managing editor in 1972 and contributing editor Richard Meryman.
Long walk to safety : experiences of refugee claimants with Canada's refugee policies and practices
Authors: Ngugi Kamau
Published: June 2021

The arrival of refugee claimants in Canada generates interest, controversy and heated debates from the Canadian body politic. Oftentimes, the voices of the refugees are absent from the debates about them and the policies and practices developed to deal with them. Through qualitative interviews, this study examines the experiences of refugees who fled persecution in their countries and came to Canada where they made successful applications for refugee protection. By documenting refugees experiences and their perceptions of these experiences, the study seeks to contribute to the debate on refugees by presenting their perspectives on Canada's inland refugee claim process. The study shows that apart from enduring the pains of persecution from which they fled, refugees also face serious challenges on their journeys to seek refugee protection in Canada. One of the main challenge[s] facing refugees when they arrive in Canada is the complex process of refugee determination and settlement that they have to go through. This paper takes the position that documenting the experiences of successful refugee claimants in Canada can be a good starting point from where to revisit our debates, polices and practices on refugees in a bid to establish a refugee protection system that adequately adheres to national and international refugee legislation while at the same time promoting a more responsive and humane approach to the needs of people fleeing persecution in their respective countries.
Curved Concrete Slab-On-Steel I-Girder Bridges
Authors: Wassef Joseph
Published: June 2021

A parametric study was conducted, using the finite-element method, to study the load distribution characteristics of curved composite I-girder bridges under truck loading. The influence of several geometric parameters on the moment, and deflection distribution factors, as well as warping stresses in straight and curved composite I-girder bridges was examined. For straight bridges, the moment distribution factors were correlated with those specified in the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code of 2000, CHBDC. Also the magnitudes of warping stresses in the steel bottom flanges were correlated with the specified limits in bridge codes. The results showed that the CHBDC moment distribution factors significantly overestimate the structural response of straight bridges considered in this study. It was also observed that the curvature limitation specified in the CHBDC to treat a curved bridge of low curvature as a straight one underestimate the structural response.
Development of an Internet-Based Synchronous GIS for Collaborative Spatial Decision Making
Authors: Gu Lijun
Published: June 2021

Urban and transportation development largely depends on innovative information technologies for decision making support in its planning and management processes to achieve beneficial economic, social and environmental outcomes. Among these technologies, techniques and tools for collaborative visualization, manipulation, and exploration of spatial information are particularly useful. Existing Geographic Information Systems (GISs), however, lack of the capability to support collaborative spatial decision making (CSDM). This thesis presents a research effort in the development of GIS software tools that support synchronized collaborations between multiple participants via the Internet, to explore urban and transportation development scenarios for collective decision making. While the design and development focused on integrating decision making tools with commercial GIS development Toolkits (e.g., Map Objects Java Edition) using collaborative Java APIs, the approach and insights gained should be of general interest. The initial usefulness testing indicates that an Internet-based synchronous GIS can help improve decision making processes of urban corridor planning and ease participation in such decision making activities.
"You Have to Have Tough Skin": The Impact of Social Exclusion on Immigrant Mothers of Children with Disabilities
Authors: Skrinda M. Majella
Published: June 2021

This exploratory research considers the way gender, racialized ethnicity, and disability, as markers of difference, contribute to the social exclusion experienced by immigrant mothers as primary caregivers of child(ren) with a disability. Interviews were held with eight immigrant mothers in the Greater Toronto Area exploring barriers to accessing informal, formal networks of support, and the resulting impact on their lives. The findings include a lack of ethno-specific and extended family support as well as a lack of accessible, transparent government, social service information, and service provision. Other issues concern language, equity and access to services, impact on personal health, caregiving for aging parents, and future concerns for their children’s short and long-term welfare. Recommendations are based on a social inclusion framework of principles, which are relevant to policy makers, service providers, educators, and members of society.
Modernizing Ontario’s thermal energy system through integration of district energy into Ontario’s planning process
Authors: Lee Michael Joseph
Published: June 2021

Energy is fundamental to the economic success and high quality of modern life because of its centrality to economic activity, comfort, and convenience. Significant opportunities for the environmental protection, economic development, and social well-being of communities can be found through the use of district energy systems over traditional means of heating and cooling for buildings. However energy considerations often come as an afterthought to land-use planning, inhibiting the capacity for greater district energy system use and development.

The purpose of this work is to examine key components of the land-use planning process in Ontario, and provide recommendations to the provincial and municipal governments to better support district energy systems through land-use planning policies, plans, and tools.
Evaluation of driver visual demand at different design speeds on complex two-dimensional rural highway alignments
Authors: Muneeb Ahmad
Published: June 2021

Road crashes are a major cause of loss of human life, property and money throughout the world. One of the reasons behind these crashes is the interaction between drivers and road alignments. The need to understand the factors that affect drivers has become obvious and is now being addressed by researchers. Moreover, driver workload is gaining attention as a measure of highway-design consistency as it directly reveals design features to the driver. This research focuses on evaluating driver visual demand at different design speeds along with other geometric design features for two-dimensional rural horizontal roadway alignments. Twelve such alignments having simple and complex curves were designed following the standards of the American Association of Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC). The driver simulator at Ryerson University, Toronto, recently modified after the integration of a car, was used for the simulation of roadway alignments. Scenario Definition Language (SDL) was used to develop Event files for simulation and to save the required data. Twelve drivers drove the simulated alignments. The output data relating to driver visual demand were processed using MS Notepad and MS Excel. The visual demand calculations for full-element length (VDF), half-element length (VDH) and the first 30 m of element length (VD30) for curve and tangent sections of alignments were done using MS Excel. Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) was used to anlayze and develop models for VDF, VDH and VD30 for curve and tangent sections, first considering design speed only as explanatory variable and then considering design speed along with other geometric design characteristics as explanatory variables. It has been observed that visual demand increases with the increase in design speed. Besides, the combined effect of design speed an other geometric design characteristics (e.g., the type of preceding element, the turning direction of a curve) has significant effect on visual demand. It was also found that visual demand followed a Log Normalized distribution which was also observed by previous research. The developed models were used to establish the visual demand profile for highway design consistency evaluation. The comparison of visual demand profile and operating speed profile has shown that the visual demand can be an acceptable measure for evaluating the highway design consistency.
“Hey Cabbie! Where are you From?” An Examination of Everyday Racism in Toronto’s Taxi Industry
Authors: Walters Jessica
Published: June 2021

Using an anti-racist Marxist lens, issues of social exclusion and settlement are broadly highlighted taking into account racism in an industry that is most commonly noted for its ease of entry for immigrant professionals. This study attempts to build on previous studies of Toronto’s taxi industry (Hathiyani, 2006; Abraham, Sundar, & Whitmore, 2008) to focus specifically on racism. This research paper examines the extent to which ‘everyday racism’ is both a by-product of and a critical ingredient in perpetuating structural racism, using Toronto’s taxi industry as a case study. Drawing on interviews from 18 fulltime taxi drivers who identified as racialized groups and were born outside of Canada, it describes the familiar tensions associated with experiencing and responding to instances of racism in a precarious industry. In the absence of an association, anti-discrimination or workplace rights to protect the driver against racial abuse and harassment, drivers are forced to negotiate their responses on an individualized basis. Drivers linked everyday racism to both class position and structural racism within the industry. These findings strongly demonstrated inadequate policies to protect drivers from everyday racism in the workplace as a result of both structural racism and a neo-liberal climate. This warrants further inquiry as Toronto’s taxi industry is a major employer of racialized, immigrant men.
The Design And Synthesis Of A Stereotactic Radiosurgical Phantom
Authors: Tkaczyk Robert
Published: June 2021

Stereotactic Radiosurgery involves the use of highly focused ionizing radiation beams to treat localized cancer tumours and lesions. Due to the damaging effects of radiation on healthy tissue, quality assurance checks must take place before treatment to ensure accurate delivery. This is of critical importance in cases like brain tumours, in which the healthy tissue at risk is in close proximity to the target volume. A dodecahedral radiosurgical phantom was designed and fabricated to measure the isocentre variation of a linear accelerator at an isocentric irradiation facility. It was shown that the phantom can localize individual treatment beams to within an uncertainty of 0.2mm. Due to the intrinsic accuracy of the phantom, it was found that careful phantom design and manufacturing as well as an accurate and complex characterization, in terms of measurements, positioning and computer modeling, must take place. This accurate characterization of the phantom is crucial to ensure the accurate treatment of stereotactic radiosurgery. This research is part of a larger project to further develop the phantom we have introduced in order to exploit a wider set of functions pertaining to maintaining accurate treatment delivery.