bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FPGA-based switch-level fault emulation using modular-based dynamic partial reconfiguration
Authors: Lee Ming-Han Peter
Published: May 2021

Fault simulation is a process of purposely injecting faults into a target circuit and observing a circuit's behavior in the presence of faulty logic. This observation helps designers to implement certain fault tolerance schemes thereby combating hardware failures. Fault simulation in most implementations has until now been software-based. Several fault emulation approaches have been proposed to accelerate fault simulation process using FPGA. There are generally two types of hardware fault injection: injector-based and reconfiguration-based. Injector-based methods require inserting fault injector circuitry into the circuit under test thus adding hardware overhead. On the other hand, reconfigurable-based methods require much less hardware overhead. However, these methods may be very slow because reconfiguring an entire FPGA device can take several seconds. This long confirmation time is usually the bottleneck of the emulation system.
This project proposes a novel switch-level fault emulation system utilizing FPGA modular-based dynamic partial reconfiguration (DPR). In the proposed approach, faults are modeled at switch-level for an accurate fault list and mapped to gate-level for efficient synthesis. In addition, circuit-under-test is partitioned using an unbalanced tree structure to facilitate modular-based DPR. Modular-based DPR partitions a design into modules, and each module can be reconfigured independently without shutting down the FPGA. This capability is applied to fault injection where each circuit partition can be reconfigured individually without erasing the rest of FPGA. First a partial configuration bitstream representing the faulty partition is created. Fault injection can then be performed by downloading only this partial bitstream to FPGA, thereby eliminating the need for full-device reconfiguration and therefore reducing fault emulation runtime.
This report presents both a theoretical explanation and the implementation details regarding this approach. Experimental results are also be provided. [sic]
Fault detection of fault ride through for doubly-fed induction generator based wind energy systems
Authors: Ramroop Shoba AD
Published: May 2021

Fault detection and mitigation is of high importance for existing DFIG based wind energy conversion systems. Keeping the doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) online during faults is desirable since reconnection can cause system instability. Grid disturbances induce large rotor currents at the machine side power electronic converter. The currents exceed the device ratings potentially causing damage. A stand alone active crowbar protection system is proposed in this project where the active crowbar is connected to the rotor windings providing a bypass path for the excessive current to dissipate across. The fault detection algorithm are developed using negative sequence detection method, which detected the negative sequence instantaneous power. The protecion system disconnects the converter from the system while activating crowbar for providing fault current circulation. The overall wind energy system with active crowbar was modelling in Matlab/Simulink and simulation results verify the functionality of the proposed protection system.
Discriminative sparse coding in the analysis of electrocardiogram during ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Kalaji Iman
Published: May 2021

Abnormalities in the rhythmic electromechanical contractions of the heart results in cardiac arrhythmias. When these abnormalities rise from the ventricles of the heart, they are classified as ventricular arrhythmias. The two major types of ventricular arrhythmias are ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). Ventricular fibrillation is the most dangerous among the two arrhythmias, that usually leads to sudden cardiac death if not treated immediately. Annually about 40,000 sudden cardiac deaths are reported in Canada. Due to high mortality rate and serious impact on quality of life, researchers have been focusing on characterizing ventricular arrhythmias
that may lead to delivering optimized treatment options in improving the survival rates.

In this thesis two major types of ventricular arrhythmias were analyzed and quantified by performing discriminative sparse coding analysis called label consistent K-SVD using time frequency dictionaries that are well localized in time and frequency domains. The analyzed signals were 670 ECG ventricular arrhythmia segments from 33 patients extracted from the Malignant Ventricular Ectopy and Creighton University Tachy-Arrhythmia databases. Using the LCKSVD dictionary learning approach, an overall maximum classification accuracy of 73.3% was achieved with a hybrid optimized wavelet dictionary. Based on the comparative analysis, the trained (learned) dictionaries yielded better performance than the untrained dictionaries. The results indicate that discriminative sparse coding approach has greater potential in extracting signal adaptive and morphologically discriminative time-frequency structures in studying ventricular arrhythmias.
The Rise of Uber and the [Re]construction of the North American Dream
Authors: Zenko Tori
Published: May 2021

The road – while on the surface often perceived as merely a means of allowing individuals to move from one location to another, has during recent decades become deeply intertwined with both individual and mass narratives related to the pursuit of freedom. The freedom narrative began when the United States highway system, developed during the early 1960s and thematically charged by the Beat Generation’s road-trip literature, became imbued with new meaning and new freedom-facilitating potential. The road, an architectural feat once thought of largely as a means of providing mass mobilization, came to be understood as both the road to freedom, and the road as freedom. However, today we find ourselves experiencing a new road narrative, one that still speaks to freedom but that differs vastly from the road
narratives of the 1960s. Today, as individuals experience the road through sharing-economy services such as Uber, a narrative shift has occurred whereby freedom on the road is no longer experienced individualistically and/or destructively but, instead, communally and constructively.
Trans Forming Education: An examination of the ways in which Teachers' construct gender and understand gender independence in TDSB elementary school classrooms
Authors: Phillips Jessica
Published: May 2021

This study focuses on the ways in which teachers construct and understand gender and gender independence in children. This study also explores the ways in which teachers strive to accommodate and include children who are gender independent. Six elementary school teachers who were positive space representatives or who self-identified as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered or Queer (LGBTQ) advocates in their schools were interviewed regarding the ways in which they constructed and understood gender identity and gender independence in their classrooms. The teachers, who taught between kindergarten and grade eight, were questioned about their familiarity with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) guideline for the accommodation of transgender and gender non-conforming students and staff. Teachers' experiences with children who were gender independent were also examined. Interviews focused on examining the ways that teachers constructed gender in their classrooms. Teachers were asked to identify barriers to inclusion, as well as the resources and supports available regarding the inclusion of gender independent children. Teachers were also asked to identify any additional resources they felt would be beneficial towards facilitating the inclusion of children who were gender independent. A combination of theoretical lenses consisting of disability theory, queer theory and feminist theory has been used throughout this study. Themes found include: Gender as constructed, Gender as performed, teachers' roles in reinforcing or shaping gender performance, constructing male and female gender independence, and creating inclusive environments. The implications of these results include suggestions for creating classrooms and schools that are inclusive to children who may be gender independent.
Effective conductivity and the impact of aging effects on foam insulations in cold climates
Authors: Belanger Douglas
Published: May 2021

Understanding material thermal conductivity is fundamental in high performance building design. This property is often advertised using a single value implied to be constant, though research shows that insulating materials have an effective conductivity that changes over a range of environmental parameters, including temperature and moisture levels. Various polyurethane and polyisocyanurate materials are analyzed in order to determine how the effective conductivity is altered by accelerated aging, obtained through exposure to high temperature, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycling. The measured results are used in hygrothermal simulations to determine the assumed and actual performance of insulating materials in the context of high performance wall and roof assemblies in cold climates. Results show that effects of aging and environmental temperature have higher impacts on the performance of polyisocyanurate materials than polyurethanes. Additionally, high moisture levels contribute to lower performance in all foam materials, with open cell materials experiencing the greatest performance reduction.
Pressure sensing and control of an aircraft passenger seat
Authors: Campos Gabriel H.
Published: May 2021

The premise of this work is to address aircraft seat comfort. This thesis presents the development of an automatic morphing backrest used to reduce pressure experienced by the passenger from the seat. Uncomfortable, high surface pressure zones on the backrest can be alleviated by decentralizing the occupant’s weight. The improved pressure distribution is intended to decrease discomfort during flight while taking different comfort/discomfort models into consideration.

Pressure distribution data from the embedded sensor mat is used to compute the seat’s cushion deflection and corresponding backrest contour caused by the passenger’s weight. The surfaces of interest - the passenger’s back and the seat, are modelled and discretized. The discretized surface contact pressure is integrated into the hyperelastic contact model to determine the loading profile. From this, the current pressure distribution and the cushion’s surface change are computed and used in the control system to create the corresponding actuation of the surface.
Development of micromirror-based laser line generator
Authors: Nia Farzad Hossein
Published: May 2021

A laser line generator projects a straight line on an object and is widely used for alignment, identification, barcode reading, etc. Conventional laser line generators make use of cylindrical and Powell lenses that convert a laser beam spot into a line. Because of a fixed fan angle, however, the length and brightness of the generated line depends on the working distance between the laser module and object. In this project, using the optical system design software Zemax and engineering CAD software Solidworks, a micromirror based laser line generator is designed and fabricated. The performance of the fabricated micromirror based laser line generator is tested and compared with the performance of a conventional laser line generator. The results show that the length and brightness of image line can be kept constant by the designed generator.
Tirmazi
Authors: Shah Annum
Published: May 2021

This paper has been written as an accompaniment to the 20- minute documentary, Tirmazi. The film explores the language and landscape of displacement, as told by my mother, Hanifa Shah and her experience with forced internal displacement in Pakistan, and migration to Canada. This paper examines the main differences between Ahmadi Muslims and mainstream Islam, as well as the history of Ahmadi persecution in Pakistan, in order to contextualize my mother’s displacement within Pakistan. It also delves into the process and aesthetics used to create the film, including the use of archival imagery and animation. Finally, this paper examines Tirmazi within the broader context of documentary, placing it within a hybrid genre that combines elements of poetic and performative modes and essay and animation models.
Evaluating Ontario immigration detention centres through the lens of non-governmental organizations
Authors: Williams Sharyne
Published: May 2021

This Masters Research Paper provides a critical analysis of the behavioural practices of immigration detention centres and how that affects the abilities of NGOs to support immigration detainees. This paper aims to identify the covert racism that is embedded within immigration detention centres in Canada, exploring how racialized detainees are susceptible to longer detention periods and mal-treatment due to increasing securitization. There will be focus on Ontario immigration detention centres in particular since many of Canada’s asylum claims and detention processes occur in Toronto and the greater Toronto area. This research fills the gap in directly addressing the impacts of racist practices of detention and how it impacts detainees’ ability to seek proper legal aid and interferes with NGOs abilities to aid detainees through their detention process. The methodology used begins with a theoretical framework using Critical Race Theory and background content on immigration detention centres, while drawing out the process of the criminalization of refugees. For this study there were one-on-on interviews conducted with 3 participants who are NGO representatives.

Key words: immigration detention centre, detainees, national security, criminalization
Deep Neural Network Approach for Sentiment Analysis of Tweets Related to Sports Concussion
Authors: Dela Cruz Alex
Published: May 2021

Concussion and Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are serious injuries that impair the normal functionality of a person’s brain. Symptoms can include confusion, disorientation, loss of consciousness, memory lost, and in more sever situations fatality. It is reported that 39% of children (ages 10-18 years old) who visit the hospital due to a sports-related head injury were diagnosed with concussion and 24% with the possible concussion [1]. In order to bring awareness about the seriousness of the TBI to the attention of the policy makers, a neural network based sentiment analysis ensemble system that automates the process of gathering the opinion of the general public is designed. A preprocessing pipeline is proposed that embeds various word-level features into a single concatenated vector. Input vectors are processed by varying Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Networks. The proposed ensemble system achieves an evaluation score of 62.71% based on its precision and recall, and compares well with other state-of-the art systems.
Choreographing space: restoring human movement in workplace typologies
Authors: Boyer Lauren
Published: May 2021

The mechanics of the human body are becoming increasingly static. In the past, our economic milieu relied on human energy, but in today’s workplace, we are predominantly inactive. We have engineered human activity out of our physical environments and created a dependence on mechanisms to move us. Consequently, these rapid changes in the environments we inhabit have resulted in a rapid increase in chronic diseases due to inactivity. Growing evidence suggests that today’s chronic illnesses are a product of our modern lifestyle, and our lifestyle is a product of the spatial environments we inhabit. With this in mind, our spatial environment can be the cause and the solution to our sedentary modern condition - by radicalizing its shape it can re-shape the lives of its inhabitants. This thesis examines how human movement can be choreographed into the spatial design of the contemporary workplace environment in order to facilitate healthy lifestyles and sustainable future societies.
Mechanical properties of wrought magnesium alloys
Authors: Begum Sanjida
Published: May 2021

Lightweight magnesium alloys are being increasingly used in automotive and other transportation industries to achieve energy efficiency. The objective of this thesis was to study the mechanical properties of two wrought alloys AZ31 and AM30. With increasing strain rate the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength increased and the strain hardening exponent decreased for AM30 and increased for AZ31. Both alloys exhibited stable cyclic characteristics at lower strain amplitudes and cyclic hardening characteristics at higher strain amplitudes. The Bauschinger effect was pronounced at higher strain amplitudes, resulting in asymmetric hysteresis loops in both alloys. The influence of strain ratio (Rs), strain rate, and initial straining direction on the cyclic deformation characteristics and fatigue life was evaluated. At low Rs, both alloys exhibited strong cyclic hardening, which decreased as Rs increased. Fatigue crack initiation was observed to occur from the specimen surface and crack propagation was basically characterized by striation-like features.
The Integration Of IEEE 802.11 (WLAN) With RFID Systems in ISM (2.45 GHz) Frequency Band Environment Using Framed Slotted ALOHA And IEEE 802.15.4
Authors: Khojasteh Haleh
Published: May 2021

In this thesis, we attempt to solve the problem of WLAN/RFID coexistence and integration in frequency band of GHz or ISM band. Our solution to this problem is to allow the WLAN access and RFID access in a time-sharing manner by making the WLAN Access Point aware of the RFID neighbor-network at MAC layer. The time-sharing function is implemented using IEEE 802.11 PCF mechanism. RFID network is implemented using two different standards. The first one is Framed Slotted Aloha standard and the second one is IEEE 802.15.4 standard. We have simulated both models using Artifex simulator and compared their performance using some performance metrics like collision probability and average number of collision in each superframe. It is shown that IEEE 802.15.4 based model outperforms the Framed Slotted Aloha based model.
Ultrasonic Spot Welding of Similar and Dissimilar Alloys for Automotive Applications
Authors: Macwan Andrew
Published: May 2021

Lightweighting has been regarded as a key strategy in the automotive industry to improve fuel efficiency and reduce anthropogenic environment-damaging, climate-changing, and costly emissions. Magnesium (Mg) alloys and Aluminum (Al) alloys are progressively more used in the transportation industries to reduce the weight of vehicles due to their high strength-to-weight ratio. Similarly, high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel is widely used to reduce gauge thickness and still maintain the same strength, and thereby reduce vehicle weight as well. A multi-material design of automotive structures and parts inevitably involve similar Mg-to-Mg and dissimilar Mg-to-Al, Al-to-steel, and Mg-to-Cu joints. Ultrasonic spot welding (USW) – a solid-state joining technique has recently received significant attention due to its higher efficiency in comparison with conventional fusion welding techniques. In this study, USW was used to generate similar joints of low rare-earth containing ZEK100 Mg alloy sheets and dissimilar ZEK100-to-Al5754, Al6111-to-HSLA steel, and Mg-to-Cu joints at different levels of welding energy or welding time. To optimize welding process and identify key factors affecting the weld strength, microstructural evolution, microhardness test, tensile lap shear test,
fatigue test, and fracture analysis were performed on similar and dissimilar ultrasonic spot welded (USWed) joints.

Dynamic recrystallization and grain coarsening were observed during Mg-to-Mg similar welding while rapid formation and growth of interface diffusion layer were observed in all dissimilar joints in the present study. It was due to significantly high strain rate (~103 s-1) and high temperature generated via frictional heating during USW. The interface diffusion layer was analyzed by SEM, EDS and XRD phase identification techniques which showed the presence of eutectic structure containing intermetallic compounds (IMCs). As a result, brittleness at the interface increased. The Zn coating in dissimilar USWed Al-to-steel joints eliminated the formation of brittle IMCs of Al-F, which were replaced by relatively ductile AlZn eutectic. The optimum welding energy or welding time during similar and dissimilar USW of lightweight alloys with a sheet thickness of 1-2 mm was in the range of ~500 J to 2000 J (~0.25 s to 1 s).
Peer-To-Peer Multimedia And Information Sharing In Social Networking Web Sites
Authors: Talaei Shahin
Published: May 2021

This thesis examines the performance for multimedia distribution and information sharing of social-networking web sites, with a focus on user networks in Facebook. We used real user network data from Facebook together with a synthetic Facebook network in the performance-testing experiments. We tested performance for multimedia distribution and information sharing using three different types of overlay networks: Facebook; structured peer-to-peer (ring topology); and unstructured peer-to-peer (mesh topology). The experiments used Network Simulator 2 (Ns-2) to simulate the network topologies. The results show that structured Peer-to-Peer has the best performance in terms of information transfer, and Facebook has the best performance in regards to average throughput. This thesis shows the strengths and weaknesses of online social networking while sharing information and multimedia content.
Production of green bacterial cellulose nanofibers by utilizing renewable resources of algae in comparison with agricultural residue
Authors: Goyat Minakshi
Published: May 2021

Bacterial Cellulose (BC) was synthesized through utilizing algae as a sustainable and renewable carbon source in comparison with agriculture residues (i.e., Wheat Straws (WS)). BC was produced in separate hydrolysis and fermentation method (SHF) using Gluconacetobacter xylinum (G.xylinum). Results for the individual and total sugars were analyzed in comparison with corresponding results from WS hydrolysis. Results show that highest total sugars content was obtained with algae samples that were hydrolyzed using enzymes (Cellulase, β-glycosidase, and
Xylanase) and produced 27.58 g/L. Similarly, WS hydrolysis under same conditions produced 52.12 g/L. The lowest total sugars production was obtained with algae sample that was hydrolyzed using 1% of acid at 121°C. Produced sugars were utilized in SHF to produce BC, with highest production of 4.86 g/L BC was achieved with algae sample that went through enzymatic hydrolysis. The equivalent production that was obtained from WS hydrolysis was 10.6 g/L Results obtained from individual sugars indicated that among all individual sugars glucose was maximum
consumed i.e. 80-85%of glucose sugar was consumed where the lowest was arabinose which was only 50% consumed during fermentation. The lower production of BC using algae compared to WS (approximately half) as algae we used was unprocessed means it had oil content in it. About 30-60% of algae dry weight was utilized for production of oil and rest amount of feedstock was only used for hydrolysis and fermentation.
Intelligence-based safety decision models for train traction control systems
Authors: Rafizadeh-Noori Kourosh
Published: May 2021

In this thesis, two intelligence-based safety decision models for train traction control systems are proposed. These models are to prove the effectiveness of a modern method for speed sensor vehicles in a communication-based train control system (CBTC). Fuzzy theory and Bayesian decision theory have been modeled to learn and to classify the vehicle traction conditions using a pattern recognition concept. The proposed models are original and formulated for such integrated and complex systems like automatic train protection (ATP) and automatic train operation (ATO). In the intelligent format, the train traction’s patterns are extracted and applied on speed sensors’ input to classify the train traction. The error and risk of traction misclassification is also calculated to reduce the impact and exposure of safety and hazards. The proposed safety models are suitable for such a decision system due to processing the manageable number of state of nature (i.e., slip/spin, normal and slide), features (speed and acceleration) and having the prior knowledge of the vehicle’s behaviour which can be collected either from field tests or lab simulations. Both models involve a mathematical problem which can be solved in any programming language and to be used in the on-board or embedded computers. The conceptual models are applied to a hypothetical case study with promising results.
Pre-service education : preparing teachers for English language learners in the classroom
Authors: Lee Nina
Published: May 2021

English language learners (ELLs) in classrooms is becoming a common occurrence with Ontario's escalating immigration trends. This influx pressures teachers who encounter barriers and indadequate training for linguistically diverse needs. Teacher education has the potential to overcome these barriers through effective ELL training. This qualitative study explores current teacher preparation practices through pre-service teachers' (PT)perspectives. This study aims to address a Canadain literature void by exploring how prepared primary-junior PTs are to teach ELLs in Southwestern Ontario. Using a structured interview, six certified graduates shared descriptive experiences, knowledge and beliefs. The findings are organized as; 1)Faculties of Education. 2)PTs' Beliefs, 3)In Future Classrooms and 4)Beyond the Classroom. Although moving towards greater ELL awareness and inclusive mindsets, there is a good indication that well-intentioned teachers lack the competence necessary for effective classroom practice. This exploration is an initial step towards a better understanding of teacher preparation.
Municipal organic solid waste management and program sustainability: a study of the Region of Peel's green bin program
Authors: Zonta Nathalie
Published: May 2021

The diversion of municipal organics to manufacture compost is increasingly seen as a proactive alternative to waste management. This study examines the sustainability of Region of Peel's (ROP) Green Bin program through the lens of the Three Spheres of Sustainability: environment, economic and social. This model was used to establish the Sustainability Criteria which ask a total of 27 questions concerning the program's sustainability. To answer these
questions, a literature review was conducted in addition to in-person interviews with two groups of farmers: one with experience using municipal compost and one without. The results indicated that the program is sustainable when the Deep Ecology and Strong Sustainability model is applied. Further, it was concluded that the environmental sphere plays a paramount role by limiting the social and economic spheres to its environmental carrying capacity. Practically speaking, composting is worthwhile even when faced with limited revenue and public misconceptions about compost.
Adaptive variable bit-rate speech coder for wireless applications
Authors: Chen Junhong
Published: May 2021

In wireless communication, speech is an essential service for which low rate speech coding is a key technique. Reducing the transmission bandwith and achieving higher speech quality are primary concerns in developing new speech coding algorithms. This report develops a joint channel and source controlled adaptive variable bit-rate algorithm to achieve a high speech quality and maintain an efficient spectrum.
Examining the Effectiveness of Psychotherapy Provided at a Canadian University Counselling Centre : Preliminary Results
Authors: Rouse Jennifer R.
Published: May 2021

Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for a variety of mental illnesses. Despite this evidence, the average Canadian does not have access to psychotherapy because Medicare does not generally cover the costs. However, Canadians attending post-secondary education can generally access psychotherapy at no direct cost. Currently, there is limited Canadian research on the effectiveness of psychotherapy provided at university counselling centres (UCCs). The present study examined the effectiveness of individual counselling provided at a Toronto university counselling centre and the preliminary results are presented. Participants experienced a statistically significant decrease in mental health-related symptoms as measured by the Outcome Questionnaire 45.2 (OQ-45), overall current symptom severity, and severity of symptom interference in daily life from pre- to post-counselling. Current medication, supplement, and vitamin use and family social support were not significant predictors of OQ-45 score changes. Participants also gave general feedback indication that counselling was effective and beneficial.
In my back yard
Authors: Verhaeven John
Published: May 2021

In My Back Yard is a documentary film that explores the changing landscape of the Mount Dennis neighbourhood in Toronto. This change is represented by the 54-acre Kodak site that is being transformed into the second largest transportation hub in the Greater Toronto Area. The film employs a series of visual strategies and retells recent observations related to the impact of this massive infrastructure project on the people, the land and the urban wildlife. Local residents, politicians and community leader were consulted. Their interviews are combined with dioramas, archival photographs and time-lapse photography to express the multi-facetted list of community concerns. This support paper attempts to define and analyse these struggles within the context of Leo Marx’s 1964 work The Machine in the Garden: Technology and the Pastoral Ideal in America. This paper proposes that Marx’s concept of the “middle landscape” helps to define the current struggle in Mount Dennis.
ACQUISITION PROPOSAL FOR CONTEMPORARY BRAZILIAN PHOTOGRAPHS FOR THE GEORGE EASTMAN HOUSE COLLECTION
Authors: Fernandes Marilia Palhares
Published: May 2021

The present Professional Practice Project is intended as an essay on Brazilian photography. From its history to the naming of selected contemporary artists, this proposal is an overview of photography in Brazil. This paper aims to be a tool for those proposing the acquisition of something unknown to an institution such as George Eastman House, and to prove that it is important to look for images beyond the range of familiar knowledge.
This essay includes an acquisition proposal, with a short biography on each artist included, as well as a section on the history of photography in Brazil. There is also a segment on the acquisitions policies of the institution for which this proposal has been written, with the story of how the major collections within it came to be there.
Flight Stability Analysis of a Flexible Rocket Using Finite Elements and Reduced-Order Modeling
Authors: Davidson Kyle
Published: May 2021

The coupling of advanced structural and aerodynamic methods is a complex and computationally demanding task. In many cases, simplifications must be made. For the flight simulation of flexible aerospace vehicles, it is common to reduce the overall structure down to a series of linked degenerate structures such as Euler-Bernoulli beams in order to expedite the structural portion of the solution process. The current study employs the sophistication and generality of finite-element based modeling with the concepts of reduced-order modeling to create a general flexible-body flight simulation program. The program was created for use with the MATLAB-Simulink programming package. A parametric analysis on the stability of flexible rockets is performed and results are presented for a variety of rocket configurations based on the SPHADS-1 vehicle under development at Ryerson University. The primary instability mode under study is that associated with the flapping and twisting motions of the tailfins under aerodynamic loading. By varying the average fin thickness, both stable and unstable behaviour is recorded for a variety of flight conditions.
An architecture of the lived world
Authors: de Boyrie Steven
Published: May 2021

Architecture has traditionally served as a tool with which to support human occupation of the built environment. This approach however, neglects the ways in which the environment conversely affects human behavior and experience. Through the exploration of this reciprocal relationship, the thesis will attempt to engage in an architecture of the lived world.
Place, a prominent premise of this lived world, is dependent on the relations between social and spatial components. In order for a community to operate successfully, it must facilitate the interactions of these components, operating as a socio-spatial network. The findings of this design research will be manifested through an intervention in a local community where the physical environment has contributed to its decline.
Digital watermarking of 3D disparity map based images for transaction tracking
Authors: Jaber Ramzy
Published: May 2021

In this thesis, the basics of disparity map and watermarking are reviewed extensively. In order to embed binary information into images, a 3D image watermarking system was proposed. This embedded information was to survive the 3D Image rendering process of Disparity maps, to help identify malicious user who would distribute the watermarked image through an unauthorized system. The proposed system adopted the concept of hidden pixel and introduced an algorithm that identifies all known hidden pixels within the image. This information is combined with the Disparity map to generate a hidden pixel disparity map (HPDM); using the information in the HPDM a decision matrix is generated. This decision matrix is used to guide the watermark embedding process to ensure that information embedded in the Left Image can survive the 3D rendering process. Using the decision matrix, the watermark detector is capable of extracting the image from either the left or right image with no effect on the overall bit rate. This achievement is due to two original additions to the detection process: (1) Reverse rendering and (2) Cyclical Redundancy check. The proposed reverse rendering process expands the decision matrix into a reduced disparity map. This reduced disparity map is used to reverse the right image into a reduced left image. The identification of the image (left or right) is achieved through the use of a CRC check, which is also capable of detecting any errors in the extracted message, thus reducing the number of misidentification.
The proposed system was implemented and tested using MATLAB. The bit efficiency of the proposed system varied between 38% and 88%. This variance is caused by the complexity of the depth scene as well as the cost function used in the depth estimation process. The watermark embedding system proposed had a PSNR of 45 dB (when no mark was embedded); this value is primarily attributed to some of the quantization that occurs during the DCT transform. However, a PSNR of 33dB is attained when the watermark was added at full strength.
A hierarchical clustering-based routing protocol applied for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Jia Yongyu
Published: May 2021

In this thesis, we propose a two-level hierarchical clustering-based routing protocol for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). WSNs consist of hundreds of thousands of energy-limited sensor nodes that are densely deployed in a large geographical region. Once deployed, the replacement of the energy sources of these sensor nodes is usually not feasible. Hence, energy efficiency is always a key design issue that needs to be enhanced in the WSN to improve the life span of the entire network. Each layer of the Open System Interconnect (OSI) Reference Model should be considered when exploiting the energy constrain in the WSN, the routing protocol proposed in this thesis, which is called the Clustering-Based Expanding-Ring Routing Protocol (CBERRP), lies mainly on the network layer. CBERRP gains the preferred performance over two typical clustering-based routing schemes in terms of network lifetime, power consumption and throughput by adopting the concept of cross-layer design. CBERRP is centralized-controlled by the base station and utilizes the two-level hierarchical structure of clusters (level-I) and chains (level-II) to route and forward the sensed data from the WSN to the base station. In addition, CBERRP can be fine-tuned to support multiple Data Aggregation Qualities for the WSN applications. The performance of CBERRP is compared to analogous clustering-based schemes such as Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy (LEACH) and LEACH-centralized (LEACH-C). The simulation results show that CBERRP presents a significant improvement over these two schemes on the performance of overall consumption and the network lifetime by around 50% and 100%, respectively
A lightweight approach towards mutual authentication in a smart grid environment
Authors: Ghosh Debsmita
Published: May 2021

Smart grids allow automated meter readings and facilitate two-way communications between the smart meters and utility control centers. As the smart grid becomes more intelligent, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Smart grid security mainly focuses on mutual authentication and key management techniques. An impeding factor in grid security is the memory and processing constraints of the smart meters. The aim of this thesis is to propose a lightweight mutual authentication protocol with an effective key renewal mechanism between a residential smart meter and a gateway. The authentication protocol proposed in the thesis, guarantees source authentication, data integrity, message confidentiality, as well as non-repudiation. The security analysis renders this protocol robust against several attacks. Furthermore, its performance analysis provides meticulous results as to how the proposed protocol is efficient in terms of computation overhead, average delay and buffer occupancy at the gateway.
Exploring Complexities: Multiracial Black Women - Racism, Sexism and Resistance
Authors: Symonds Shala N.
Published: May 2021

This Major Research Paper (MRP) is a qualitative research study which features the narratives of two afro-Canadian women. My aim was to explore the unique experiences of racism and sexism experienced by mixedrace individuals. The research question asks: how do multiracial black women experience, understand, and resist anti-black racism and sexism? Critical Race Feminism (CRF) is the theoretical framework used to analyse participant narratives. This study uses phenomenology as a research method; data is collected through two semi-structured interviews. Five primary themes arose during the interviews: including a) racial identity; b) racism and microaggressions; c) sexism and patriarchal culture; d) internalized racism; and e) self-preservation and resilience. The findings revealed that racial identity development is a subjective, discursive, and complex process that is influenced by community and culture and racialization. Participants’ narratives revealed that experiences with racism frequently take form in subtle yet impactful microaggressions. Sexist microaggressions and patriarchal workplace culture were identified as sources of gender-based marginalization promoting invisibility. Findings revealed that internalized racism is a psychological consequence of subconsciously indoctrinating racist discourse. Self-reflection, dialogue, and community building were revealed to be useful methods for multiracial black women’s self-preservation and remaining resilient in a patriarchal white supremacist settler society.
A history-based energy-efficient routing protocol for opportunistic networks
Authors: Khalid Khuram
Published: May 2021

In this thesis, a history-based energy-efficient routing protocol (called AEHBPR) for opportunistic networks (OppNets) is proposed, which saves the energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary packets transmission in the network and by clearing the buffer of nodes carrying the copies of the already delivered packets. The proposed AEHBPR protocol is evaluated using the Opportunistic NEtwork (ONE) simulator with both synthetic and real mobility traces, showing a superior performance compared to the History-Based Prediction for Routing (HBPR) protocol and AEProphet, in terms of average remaining energy, number of dead nodes, number of delivered messages, and overhead ratio, where AEProphet is the ProPHet routing protocol for OppNets on which the same energy-aware mechanism has been implemented.
Domestic Violence Intimate Partner Violence Male-Identified Latino Diaspora Participants Program Experiences
Authors: Vallecilla Hugo
Published: May 2021

Domestic Violence Intimate Partner Violence with Male Identified Latino Diaspora participants research was to give a voice to a group of men who committed violence against their partners and provide them an opportunity to talk about who they are, where they learned to be who they are, and how they were impacted by mandatory court programs. Before this study, no significant research had been done on the experiences of Latino Diaspora men within the Greater Toronto Area. The theoretical and methodological lens utilized Critical Race Theory and Latino Critical Theory. Three semi-structured interviews were conducted with male-identified individuals who completed court mandated programs within the Greater Toronto Area in the last five years. The outcomes were an improved understanding about the benefits and gaps that still exist within the mandatory court programs. Findings present much-needed information and consideration about the benefits of linguistic specific supports and the needs for greater educational supports related to healthy relationships.
Development of membrane in microfluidic device for sorting and detection for potential heterogeneity investigation
Authors: Joung Dehi
Published: May 2021

Membrane fabrication and integration with microfluidic devices has received increased attention for applications including bio-detection (a device providing analytical information in a selective and quantitative manner using a biological recognition element), membrane-based separation, and biological sample purification. The main challenges associated with these applications have been: 1) meeting sensitivity/selectivity requirements, 2) decreasing costs, 3) maintaining the mechanical stability of the membrane, 4) offering high throughput. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to demonstrate size-based membrane separation and bio-detection using double layer channel developed in our lab and to show how the membrane integrated channel can selectively separate rod shape cell separation with various aspect ratio based on size and enhance bio detection rate with flow. Based on an existing double-channel and cross-flow microfluidics platform, we explored various polymeric materials for fabricating porous membranes to use in pore-size-dependent separation. We induced pores via stop-flow lithography, and investigated membrane properties and limitations for pore-size-dependent separation. We investigated potential applications of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA)-based membrane integrated platforms in biological molecule detection based on streptavidin and biotin interaction. We demonstrated that flow and concentrations can enhance target detection in this platform.
Three-dimensional modelling of ground surfaces
Authors: Li Ming
Published: May 2021

The efficiency and quality of abrasive machining processes influence costs and quality of elements produced, as well as whole products. Hence, the estimation of surface characteristics can greatly facilitate the requirements of performance evaluation. But the surface finish is dominated by many factors and a physical model which could predict it is not practical. Therefore, it is very important to develop modelling techniques for the reliable prediction of surface characteristics. This thesis describes the development of a three-dimensional predictive modelling methodology for surface characteristics of a ground surface. The methodology uses solid modelers to generate the chips and remove them from the solid model of the workpiece. This results in a surface model which represents the ground surface in three dimensions. Various surface characteristics can then be deducted from this model. The modelling of individual abrasive grains follows a statistical distribution which depends on the grinding tool characteristics. The cutting path depends on the relative motion between the tool and workpiece. The methodology was implemented for three different types of tool path. The results are in agreement with expected values.
Hijabi vloggers: Muslim women’s self expression and identity articulation on YouTube
Authors: Rahman Nur Shazlin Abdul
Published: May 2021

The hijab is often cited as a manifestation of Islam’s patriarchy. The advent of mobile technology and social media platforms gave an antidote to this problem. Particularly, vlogging trend among Muslim women lets them disrupt
problematic narratives about themselves, speak in their own voices to a global audience and demonstrate their agency. However, the women’s focus on fashion puts them at the mercy of cultural and profit-driven norms. Their use of YouTube also means the vloggers are unconsciously conforming to prevailing trends. This research applies a feminist CDA to illuminate ideologies that shape the women’s articulation of their identities in relation to their ethno-religious communities. The small stories approach of interviews with Muslim women vloggers unearthed this
trend’s liberative qualities and pitfalls. Since digital self-representation among marginalized identities like Muslim women is new, this research calls for further research into the utility of digital platforms as tools for identity articulation.
Environmental healing architecture: a preventative approach to urban wellness
Authors: Harispuru William G.
Published: May 2021

The contents of this thesis/project summarize thirteen months of research and design into the architecture of human health. Specifically, it examines the problems in Canada's health culture and offers a more sustainable solution with respect to the design of the physical environment. Research includes the interconnected issues of a changing population demographic, alternative therapy, ancient civilizations and their approach to preventative health, as well as the role that evidence based design plays in the modern healing environment. Research methods include literature reviews, case studies, site visits, field research, personal interviews and design experimentation. This thesis/project examines the healthy attributes inherent in nature, and their inclusion in the design of existing corrective health facilities. This thesis/project investigates how these natural features can be incorporated into a proposed Toronto community. The West Donlands Health and Wellness Centre will promote an alternative preventative health lifestyle for its users. Community programming is offered through a holistic definition of health, this includes traditional allopathic health services, education, physical fitness and healing.