bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Quantitative Electroencephalography-Based Neurofeedback Therapy on Anxiety, Depression, and Emotion Regulation in People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors:   Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran., Abdian Hassan , Rezaei Mazaher ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran., Eskandari Zakaria ,   Department of Clinical Psychology and Addiction Studies, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran., Ramezani Shokoufeh ,   Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Humanity, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran., Pirzeh Reza ,   Department of Pschiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran., Dadashi Mohsen ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders that has significant adverse effects on social functioning, occupational/academic performance, and daily living. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG)-based Neurofeedback (NFB) therapy on anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation of people with GAD. Methods: This research is a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test/post-test/follow-up design and a control group. The study participants were 29 college students with GAD living in Zanjan City, Iran, who were selected using a convenience sampling method. Then, they were randomly divided into two groups of intervention (n=15) and control (n=14). The protocol of NFB therapy was designed based on the QEEG method. The intervention group received QEEG-based NFB therapy for 8 weeks (20 sessions, 2 sessions per week, each session for 45 min), while the control group received no intervention. The samples were surveyed and measured by using a 7-item GAD scale, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS), and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM (SCID) before and after the intervention and then at a 3-month follow-up. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software V. 22 using univariate ANCOVA and repeated measures ANOVA. Results: The within-subjects effect of time (pre-test, post-test, and follow-up) was statistically significant (P=0.031). The intervention group showed significant changes in the post-test and follow-up phases in comparison with the control group. The anxiety and depression levels of patients reduced significantly (P=0.001), and their emotion regulation improved (P=0.001) after the intervention, and they remained unchanged in the follow-up period. Conclusion: QEEG-based NFB therapy can reduce anxiety and depression and improve emotion regulation in patients with GAD.
Hippocampal Astrocyte Response to Melatonin Following Neural Damage Induction in Rats
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Babaee Abdolreza , Eftekhar Vaghefi Seyed Hassan ,   Department of Anatomy, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Dehghani Soltani Samereh ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran., Asadi Shekaari Majid ,   Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Shahrokhi Nader ,   Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran., Basiri Mohsen ,   Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Brain injury induces an almost immediate response from glial cells, especially astrocytes. Activation of astrocytes leads to the production of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species that may result in secondary neuronal damage. Melatonin is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, and it has been reported to exert neuroprotection through the prevention of neuronal death in several models of central nervous system injury. This study aimed to investigate the effect of melatonin on astrocyte activation induced by Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in rat hippocampus and dentate gyrus. Methods: Animals were randomly divided into 5 groups; Sham group, TBI group, vehicle group, and melatonin‐treated TBI groups (TBI+Mel5, TBI+Mel20). Immunohistochemical method (GFAP marker) and TUNEL assay were used to evaluate astrocyte reactivity and neuronal death, respectively. Results: The results demonstrated that the astrocyte number was reduced significantly in melatonin‐treated groups compared to the vehicle group. Additionally, based on TUNEL results, melatonin administration noticeably reduced the number of apoptotic neurons in the rat hippocampus and dentate gyrus. Conclusion: In general, our findings suggest that melatonin treatment after brain injury reduces astrocyte reactivity as well as neuronal cell apoptosis in rat hippocampus and dentate gyrus.
Features of using methods and means of the augmented reality technology when teaching a foreign language
Authors:   Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Sergeeva Natalia A. , Zakharova Anna N. ,   Moscow Aviation Institute  (National Research University), Zakharova Anna N. ,   Vyatka State University, Tyutyunnik Svetlana I. ,   Vyatka State University
Published: May 2021

The problem and the aim of the study. The integration of digital technologies into modern curricula in a foreign language supports the solution of tasks of higher professional education in terms of training a demanded and competitive specialist. The purpose of the work is to study the features of using methods and means of the augmented reality technology in the process of forming students' professional foreign language competence. Research methods. To obtain theoretical generalizations the analysis of scientific works on problems and prospects of using the augmented reality (AR) technology in the process of teaching a foreign language and on formation of the professional foreign language competence was used. AR tools (Google Lens, augmented reality browsers, WallaMe service) were mastered as part of the course “Virtual and Augmented Reality Technologies” Stepik platform (https://stepik.org/course/62107/syllabus). The study involved 40 first-year students of Vyatka State University of the training program “Teacher education”. In the experiment, the Pearson χ2 (chi-square) criterion was applied. Results. In the experimental group, when studying scientific terms, vocabulary and grammar of the foreign language, for communication and cultural exchange, the methods and means of the AR technology were used. Assessment of formation of the professional foreign language competence was carried out and statistically significant differences in the qualitative changes that occurred in the pedagogical system were revealed, χ2obs. 2 > χ2crit0.05 (7,14 > 5,99). In conclusion factors that make it possible to effectively use the augmented reality technology in foreign language classes (time regulation; alternation of activities, traditional methods and means with innovative ones; inclusion of physical activity breaks and elements of neuro-gymnastics; instruction on safe networking) are summarized.
ЕКОНОМІЧНИЙ АСПЕКТ ТЕРИТОРІАЛЬНОГО ВИРОБНИЦТВА АМАРАНТУ, КОНОПЛІ ТА СОРГО В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Безугла Людмила
Published: May 2021

В статті обґрунтовано доцільність виробництва амаранту, коноплі, та сорго на території України. Встановлено, що аномальні кліматичні умови в минулих сезонах змусили аграріїв звернути увагу на вирощування альтернативних посухостійких культур. Ідентифіковано потенціал сортів амаранту та його середню врожайність. З метою визначення достатності продукції на ринку України здійснено аналіз посівних площ амаранту. Досліджено стан галузі коноплярства в Україні та посівні площі технічної коноплі. Встановлено, що в світі переробляється 100% рослини конопель, в той час коли в Україні – лише 85%, решта вважається відходами. Розглянуто проблематику ринку коноплі в Україні. Проаналізовано посівні площі сорго в Україні, яке здебільшого вирощують в степовій зоні. Узагальнено, що стримуючим фактором розширення площі посівів сорго в інших зонах, є недостатня сума температурних показників упродовж вегетаційного періоду.
Flower-like Na2O nanotip synthesis via femtosecond laser ablation of glass
Authors: Samarasekera Champika , Tan Bo , Venkatakrishnan Krishnan
Published: May 2021

The current state-of-the-art in nanotip synthesis relies on techniques that utilize elaborate precursor chemicals, catalysts, or vacuum conditions, and any combination thereof. To realize their ultimate potential, synthesized nanotips require simpler fabrication techniques that allow for control over their final nano-morphology. We present a unique, dry, catalyst-free, and ambient condition method for creating densely clustered, flower-like, sodium
oxide (Na2O) nanotips with controllable tip widths. Femtosecond laser ablation of a soda-lime glass substrate at a megahertz repetition rate, with nitrogen flow, was employed to generate nanotips with base and head widths as small as 100 and 20 nm respectively, and lengths as long as 10 μm. Control of the nanotip widths was demonstrated via laser dwell time with longer dwell times producing denser clusters of thinner nanotips. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis reveals that nanotip composition is Na2O. A new formation mechanism is proposed, involving an electrostatic effect between ionized nitrogen and polar Na2O. The synthesized nanotips may potentially be used in antibacterial and hydrogen storage applications.

PACS: 81 Materials science; 81.07.-b nanoscale materials and structures: fabrication and characterization; 81.16.-c methods of micro- and nanofabrication and processing
The Greatest Good Place: The role of the public library in the development of successful cities, and the relationship between public library contributions and planning policy
Authors: Kluke Jennifer
Published: May 2021

This paper explores the changing role of the public library, and determines its impacts on communities and cities. It also examines the relationship between libraries and planning policies, and the extend to which they inform the success of public libraries. The analysis centres on the design of modern public libraries, and the community and economic contributions they provide. Through analyses of the Vancouver Public Library, the Seattle Public Library, and the Toronto Public Library, it is evident that public libraries provide significant contributions within the communities they serve. Well-designed library buildings provide an important public space, and provide people with access to information and technology needed to participate in the knowledge economy, in turn producing significant economic gains for the city. This research finds that planning policy alone is unable to ensure the success of a city`s public library system. Support from the public and municipal leaders, combined with strong policy directives, is needed for a city`s public library system to succeed.
Among four traveller types in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Region, who uses ride-hailing?
Authors: Shi Hong Yun (Eva)
Published: May 2021

Despite the rising popularity of ride-hailing, planning practitioners are still learning about the use and management of the service. This paper seeks to uncover who the primary users of ride-hailing are through a cluster analysis using traveller behaviour and mobility tool variables, where four traveller types are identified -- Multi-Modal Super-Sharers, Auto + Private Mobility Travellers, Car-Dependent Travellers, and Low Mobility Travellers. This paper finds that current auto-oriented travellers are not using ride-hailing, as demonstrated by Mobility Travellers and Car-Dependent Travellers. Additionally, ride-hailing is primarily used by non-auto-oriented travellers. The largest proportion of regular ride-hailing users, Multi-Modals Super-Sharers, are the youngest, are more educated, have access to the largest variety of mobility tools, and travel the most. For Low Mobility Travellers, the most vulnerable group based on household income, educational attainment, employment status, and car ownership, ride-hailing is filling a transportation gap. Understanding who uses ride-hailing is a key component in understanding the potential changes in travel behaviour.
Engaging with Youth from Toronto's Priority Neighbourhoods: Moving from the "Youth Problem" Towards Youth Development
Authors: Rajput Vicky
Published: May 2021

This paper examines youth engagement within the Kingston-Galloway neighbourhood and asks: How can youth from priority neighbourhoods participate in their community in ways that foster both their own development as well as their neighbourhood’s development? The current approach to youth engagement in Toronto is heavily focused on intervention strategies that try to address the “youth problem” as opposed to promoting youth development. The absence of a youth development approach impedes on the ability of youth to foster development of their neighbourhoods. Based on a review of the literature and relevant policy documents, interviews with service providers and North American case studies, this paper recommends that the City of Toronto commits sustainable funding for youth services and programs, engages in a youth consultation forum, develops a youth policy framework and creates more employment opportunities for at-risk youth.
Vertical children in Toronto
Authors: Cinq-Mars Marc
Published: May 2021

This MRP seeks to explore the availability of public services and facilities designed to assist the needs of children in Toronto. Specifically examining neighbourhoods located in or near the central core consisting of mostly high-rise style housing, developed post-2000. Research is conducted in three parts: a literature review, an exploration of successful child-friendly initiatives from around the world, and a GIS mapping exercise of four new vertical neighbourhoods in Toronto. The mapping exercise found that while an extensive child-friendly infrastructure network does not guarantee a large population of children, a neighbourhood’s lack of this network severely limits its ability to attract new families. The number of children living in a place is often used as a metric to measure success. A neighbourhood with a thriving children and youth population means an inclusive and sustainable neighbourhood for everyone.
Do development permit systems inherently facilitate intensification objectives?
Authors: Kashin Brandon
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether Development Permit Systems passively achieve policy-related intensification objectives in addition to explicit provisions. The methodology includes a brief history and review of applicable laws to explain how Development Permit Systems were created in Ontario. An overview of the Town of Gananoque policy documents is discussed and compared to Growth Plan intensification objectives. Development Permit System benefits and disadvantages are compared to Growth Plan intensification policies and Gananoque
Official Plan residential policies to determine whether Development Permit Systems inherently achieve Growth Plan objectives. The key finding is that Development Permit Systems somewhat inherently achieve residential intensification policies, depending on whether the intensification provisions are included within the DPS to begin with and whether there are intensification policies included in the associated Official Plan policies.
Generating Community Benefit From New Development: What’s in it for Parkdale?
Authors: Zentner Matthew
Published: May 2021

Rapidly rising property values and shifts in living patterns have led to housing affordability pressures and gentrification in the Toronto neighbourhood of Parkdale. As a result, community groups are looking to find ways to preserve housing affordability through the creation of new housing units. This paper analyses policy tools that could potentially be used to generate affordable housing from new development. An understanding of current conditions was established and potential policy tools were identified. These include: inclusionary zoning, density benefit agreements, community benefit agreements, and community land trusts. A jurisdictional scan identified common themes and best practices for implementation of these policy tools. Interviews with key informants built upon this basis and provided insight into the applicability of these tools to Toronto. Recommendations were developed to assist community groups in responding to the implementation of these policies and to direct advocacy for further policy changes.
Incorporating the public interest in public-private partnerships in Ontario: a case study of the Eglinton Crosstown
Authors: Tohill Joseph
Published: May 2021

Although the Province of Ontario sees Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) as an effective means to procure major transportation infrastructure, the public interest implications of P3s from a planning perspective are little understood. P3s are purported to deliver cost-savings to the public sector through transferring expanded elements of risk to the private sector. However, critics argue that P3s erode the public interest through reduced project transparency, weakened public participation, and higher life-cycle project costs. Through a case study of the Eglinton Crosstown transit line in Toronto, this paper evaluates the extent to which the public sector agency, Infrastructure Ontario (IO), has been able to fulfill a series of evaluative criteria grounded in the public interest. Although IO has been able to maintain the public interest in the case of the Eglinton Crosstown, a lack of consistency in project transparency and weakened ex post reporting standards hampers the ability of the agency to consistently uphold the public interest in present and future projects
An Analysis of Brownfield Redevelopment Projects in Mid-Sized Cities in Ontario
Authors: Green Thomas
Published: May 2021

Brownfield redevelopment has become increasingly popular in the first part of the twenty-first century (Hollander, Kirkwood & Gold, 2010) because of the environmental, economic and social benefits realized from remediating and redeveloping brownfields. There has been little research conducted regarding the redevelopment of brownfields in smaller cities that do not have the strong market forces that have spurred brownfield redevelopment in locales such as Toronto and other large population centres. Municipalities with mid to low markets may need to take different approaches to redeveloping their brownfields and the current Provincial policies may not meet their needs. The purpose of this study is to investigate brownfield case studies in the cities of Sault Ste. Marie and Brantford, Ontario and offer explanations as to why some redevelopment plans have failed to occur in these communities and yet nearby sites have had success.
Revitalizing Toronto's Inner Suburban Neighbourhoods: A Study of the Markham and Lawrence Area of Scarborough
Authors: Ashton Niklaus
Published: May 2021

This study investigates issues and challenges facing the inner suburban neighbourhood of arkham and Lawrence in Scarborough – Toronto’s east end. Like many other mature suburbs throughout North America, Markham-Lawrence has begun to see decline and deterioration that has resulted in lower quality of life and the flight of the middle class. Recognizing the importance of healthy, well-balanced communities for Toronto’s future, this case study aims to better understand challenges in the Markham-Lawrence area and proposes a series of recommendations for community improvement that are capable of expanding the life chances of impoverished residents, re-establishing a strong middle class, and spurring greater economic development.
Growing with the Flow: Planning for Smart Growth in Ontario Through Water & Wastewater Infrastructure Service Provision
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2021

Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe is experiencing rapid growth that if unchecked could perpetuate "sprawl" and threaten the Region’s sustainability. To manage this growth, the Province adopted a program of "Smart Growth" and prepared a regional Growth Plan amidst a suite of complementary legislation. Municipalities are now expected to accommodate high levels of growth with an adequate supply of water and the necessary infrastructure to support increased demand. This invites the question of whether growth can be sustained through infrastructure upgrades, or whether absolute hydrologic limits will reshape regional growth. To investigate this, two strands of research are merged, which have traditionally been carried out individually - Smart Growth and "Planning by the Pipe". This paper argues that Ontario should align its growth management strategy with the servicing capacity and lifespan of water and wastewater infrastructure as well as the finances required for their maintenance and expansion. This consideration must not only reflect preferred areas for growth but the region’s hydrological capacity to support the increased demand in these areas.
Live-Work Developments : From Theory to Practice
Authors: Kakal Alfiya
Published: May 2021

Live-work developments are becoming increasingly important as a type of mixed-use development. This is manifested by the growing number of such units across the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Along with their growing popularity, these units are being espoused by governments at all levels as a way of creating complete communities, reducing car trips and enhancing the public realm by allowing for a mixed-use, diverse, pedestrian-friendly built form. For these reasons, live-work units can be considered a means for promoting progressive planning principles. Their development however, challenges municipalities on a number of fronts. Residential expectations of peace, security and quiet enjoyment can clash with commercial externalities such as noise, traffic and parking constraints. Because of this live-work units have a tendency to revert to pure residential which then negatively impacts economic growth. Live-work units in a largely residential neighbourhood are particularly prone to such an outcome which can undermine the work function of the units. As well, design and building code considerations such as maximum allowable floor space can also significantly impact the viability of businesses in these units.
NOTES 520 3 Given these challenges, this research explores two cases of live-work developments in the Greater Golden Horseshoe to assess their overall impact in meeting the stated goals of such developments. The two cases which are Cornell Village in Markham, Ontario and Port Credit in Mississauga, Ontario respectively are explored from the perspective of sustainability, economic impact and affordability. This research is intended to be exploratory in nature and used as a launch pad for additional, more quantitative analyses of the impact of such developments, particularly with regard to their economic impact in light of increasing immigration. The findings reveal that while both developments have had a certain degree of success in meeting their performative function, live-work units are highly context dependent. And their contributions towards environmental sustainability, job creation and urban development are determined by the economic and socio-spatial milieu in which they are located.
Understanding creative hubs : the agglomeration of creativity in Toronto
Authors: Chen XiaoXuan Amanda
Published: May 2021

This paper conducts an unprecedented research that thoroughly defines the concept of creative hubs as an urban mechanism that emerges from the need of effectively leveraging local resources to better facilitate creative activities and ultimately improve local economics. Building a conceptual framework that articulates the three essential components (the 3Ps) of creative hubs: people, place and planning, this study further analyzes the creative-hub distribution in the city of Toronto. Using a mapping approach to illustrate how different creative hubs scatter, it is observed that there exist congregations of institutional-level and district-level creative hubs along the north-south and east-west direction respectively in the City of Toronto. Finally, a case study on Liberty Village is conducted to scrutinize how a creative hub achieve [sic] its functional value basing [sic] on its people, place, and planning policies.
The TIFF with TIEG: an evaluation of the City of Toronto's IMIT Program
Authors: Persaud Sachin
Published: May 2021

Facing an increasingly integrated and competitive global economy, local governments have developed property tax incentive programs to entice businesses to build and locate domestically. This paper offers an account of how one specific property tax incentive program – the City of Toronto's Imagination, Manufacturing, Innovation and Technology (IMIT) program – came into existence and how it has evolved into the present day. An evaluation criteria analysis that builds on Hemson Consulting's 2017 review of IMIT follows. A review of literature and policy culminates in a list of recommendations for the City to consider as it strives to achieve its economic development objectives. Key words: property tax, incentive, economic development, employment
Vertical children in Toronto
Authors: Cinq-Mars Marc
Published: May 2021

This MRP seeks to explore the availability of public services and facilities designed to assist the needs of children in Toronto. Specifically examining neighbourhoods located in or near the central core consisting of mostly high-rise style housing, developed post-2000. Research is conducted in three parts: a literature review, an exploration of successful child friendly initiatives from around the world, and a GIS mapping exercise of four new vertical neighbourhoods in Toronto. The mapping exercise found that while an extensive child-friendly infrastructure network does not guarantee a large population of children, a neighbourhood’s lack of this network severely limits its ability to attract new families. The number of children living in a place is often used as a metric to measure success. A neighbourhood with a thriving children and youth population means an inclusive and sustainable neighbourhood for everyone.
An Evaluation of the Subdivision Approval Process in Kingston and St. Andrew, Jamaica
Authors: Francis Leonard Ahijah
Published: May 2021

Over the years the development approval process in Jamaica has been criticised by its major stakeholders as being inefficient and costly. It was also seen as a major disincentive in promoting and attracting investment in the Island. In response to the criticisms and investment concerns, successive governments have implemented reforms to improve the process. The purpose of this research is to use the subdivision process in Kingston and St. Andrew as a case study to evaluate the development approval process given these changes, to see if the process has improved. The research uses a mixed method approach to evaluate the process with respect to its effectiveness.
The report concludes that the process has improved but is still not meeting the mandated 90 day timeline. The report finishes by making recommendations on how the system can be improved and reformed to meet these time lines.
Exploring Islamophobia in land use regulations: the case of the city of Mississauga
Authors: Khan Aaliya
Published: May 2021

Building community spaces is important for immigrant communities: it helps transform the sterility of an unfamiliar new city into home. Muslims have historically sought to make cities their own by building mosques that have served spiritual, social and symbolic functions as architectural sites. This essay examines what the interplay between settlement of newcomers and new types of land use applications and what it tells readers about municipal gaps in addressing the question of “difference” in Canada using the City of Mississauga as a case study. It starts with a review of the history and context of mosque building in Canada, follows up by examining land use policies in Mississauga, and then looks at controversial mosque development issues by examining official city and provincial documents including one Human Rights Complaint. This paper wraps up by presenting recommendations for municipalities to better navigate the question of difference through policy and praxis. Keywords: Islamophobia, land‐use planning, urban planning, racism, exclusion, xenophobia, Mississauga, public policy
A renewed approach : exploring Toronto’s relationship to biophilia
Authors: Beale Alexis
Published: May 2021

The positive benefits of biophilia in cities is well documented. Furthermore, the positive relationship between human well-being and nature plays an important role in cities. This paper will discuss the role of nature in cities and how it promotes both environmental and human health, with the ultimate goal of developing a framework that will help Toronto become a partner city of the Biophilic Cities Network.
Torontonians have a nature problem - can biophilic design be a solution?
Authors: Easton Megan
Published: May 2021

Biophilic design stems from the term biophilia; a concept that describes humans’ innate connection and love for nature. It is an innovative way to bring nature into cities, reconnecting urban residents to the natural world through the built environment, while simultaneously contributing many mental, physical and environmental benefits. Despite extensive research on the significance of biophilic design, application in many urban environments, including Toronto, is minimal. This paper investigates what, if any, obstacles may be preventing Toronto from integrating biophilic design. Research was conducted through a literature review, case study analysis and four key informant surveys. It finds that there are obstacles to local implementation including a lack of supportive planning framework, a lack of economic support and incentives, lacking professional expertise and absent demand. The paper acknowledges the literature, case studies and informant responses through the provision of recommendations that are designed to help the city overcome these obstacles.

Key words: Biophilia, Biophilic Design, Planning, Toronto
Keele Street Avenue Study
Authors: Hahn Daniel
Published: May 2021

From its humble origins as a rural country road to its present form as a suburban arterial, the Keele Street Corridor - stretching from Wilson Avenue to Grandravine Drive - has long served the transportation and day-to-day needs of North York and Toronto residents.

The following study presents the corridor as it was, as it is, and as it could be. Through a series of recommendations, this report intends to offer a vision of the corridor as an urbanized, livable, and beautiful corridor in keeping with the Official Plan’s Avenues policies and based on the following principles:

Locating new and denser housing types that encourage a mix of use, make efficient use of lands, frame the right-of-way, are appropriately massed and attractively designed.

Supporting the creation of complete communities that provide a mix of unit types and offers a range of affordability.
Creating high-quality and well-planned public spaces that retain existing residents, attract new residents, encourage interaction and animation, and provide the infrastructure required by all.

Prioritizing opportunities for greening within the right-of-way, including planting new trees, creating new parks with frontage along Keele Street, planters, and green buildings.

Reconfiguring and civilizing Keele Street into a complete street that serves as a living space for its residents, assigns priority to safety, and encourages active transportation and transit.

The report is divided into two parts:

The first part - BACKGROUND - contains a description of the corridor’s boundaries, its evolution from an agrarian community, presents the current built environment, and reviews the existing policy layers affecting the Corridor.

The second part - PLAN - contains recommendations related to the future development and revitalization of the corridor related to future land uses, built form, development, public realm, parks and open space, and transportation network.

Key words: Avenue, urban design, urbanization, suburbs, mid-rise building, corridor.
Bikes and Belonging: A Photographic Exploration of the Bike Host Program in Toronto
Authors: Verlinden Yvonne
Published: May 2021

This major research project uses photography to explore questions of mobility, place-learning and belonging with newcomers participating in the Bike Host program in Toronto. Created by CultureLink Settlement Services in 2011, Bike Host loans bicycles out to immigrants and refugees and matches them with a cycling mentor. Through small group rides and large events, the participants have the opportunity to explore Toronto, gain confidence riding, make social connections, practice English and engage in volunteerism. For this project, a dozen participants also took pictures of how they were using their bicycles and shared their photos in small group, semi-structured discussions, which were recorded and analyzed. Four themes emerged: freedom, comfort and knowledge, discovery and belonging. The photographers found that compared to walking, they could travel further more quickly and with less effort, which prompted them to make more trips within their communities. The photographers also appreciated that, unlike with transit, they could leave whenever they wanted and take whichever route they wanted. This new mobility led to discovery, in both guided group rides to iconic Toronto destinations and in neighbourhood meanderings, undertaken independently along local streets and trails. Through this process, they filled in the gaps in their local cognitive maps. Increased familiarity led to an increased sense of belonging, as places that were once unfamiliar began to feel more like home.
Creating “Complete Communities” Through Commercial Land Use Policy
Authors: Prentice Kelsey
Published: May 2021

The Ontario government has provided little guidance for municipalities regarding planning for retail development, despite expecting their land use policies to achieve the goals of sustainable and complete communities mandated through provincial policies. This paper examines the evolution of commercial land use policy over the past twenty years, in order to describe how municipalities have been planning commercial retail development to meet the objectives of the Growth Plan. During this time period, a new form of retail emerged known as “power retail”. This new form of retail has disrupted land use planners’ mandate to maintain the planned function of commercial hierarchies. Case studies of three municipalities in York Region (Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Markham) reveal that commercial land use policy has moved away from creating a commercial retail hierarchy based on planned function and have instead established an urban structure based on a hierarchy of intensification areas.
The role of transitional uses, temporary interventions & "ephemerality" in post-industrial waterfront spaces: lessons for Toronto's port lands.
Authors: Hickey Kathryn J.
Published: May 2021

Post-industrial waterfronts are often characterized by a time-gap or a moment of standstill between the collapse of a previous use and the transition to a new and future use. However, conventional planning processes often leave these areas in a curious limbo while they are being prepared or while their futures are being determined. Changing contemporary conditions demand that planners re-evaluate urban planning and development approaches. Transitional uses and temporary interventions must be recognized as legitimate and important aspects of the planning process especially in these ephemeral landscapes as they provide an outlet for innovative and adaptive practices. This paper discusses three case studies. The cities of Melbourne, Amsterdam and Hamburg implemented unique and adaptive projects along their waterfronts as mechanisms to catalyze redevelopment and foster
social engagement during indeterminate times. This paper explores these projects and applies the strategies used in each to Toronto’s vacant and extensively underutilized Port Lands.
Is There a Link Between Growth Management Regulations and Housing Affordability in the Town of Markham?
Authors: Henriques Anna
Published: May 2021

The primary objective of this research paper is to identify and understand the potential impacts of growth management regulations (the Greenbelt Plan and the GPGGH) on housing affordability in the Town of Markham and to explore what, if anything, Markham is doing to mitigate potential negative impacts. Relevant quantitative and qualitative data was reviewed relative to growth management and the Town of Markham and it was found that there are some potential links. Despite finding potential links, it is impossible to make a definitive and causal relationship between the two due to the discrepancies in measuring affordability and myriad variables that have the potential to influence affordability.
Creating incubator neighbourhood performing arts venues using growth financing tools
Authors: Godin David
Published: May 2021

A recommendation that Vancouver City Council implement the Culture Plan’s commitment to address the persisting insufficiency of small rental performing arts venues by using Community Amenity Contributions (CACs) from the rezoning of properties to fund the creation of small, inexpensive ‘incubator’ neighbourhood performing arts venues, which are critical to the health and development of the performing arts community. The recommended development model is based on Havana Theatre; a small incubator performing arts venue located inside Havana Restaurant, which subsidizes the cost of operating the venue. In downtown, developers will build the venues and attached retail space using in-kind CACs. Outside of downtown, a ‘renovation-first’ approach will be taken by the City to buy existing buildings using accrued CACs and renovate them to create the venues and attached retail space. On the strength of experience and business plan, the City will select qualified bidders to operate the venues and attached businesses.
Opening neighbourhood streets for community-building and children's outdoor free play
Authors: Abbasi Zainab Aamir
Published: May 2021

Street play interventions have the potential to socially benefit children and all community members within a neighbourhood, which have increasingly been taken over by vehicles. The StreetPLAY pilot program implemented in the city of Toronto by Earth Day Canada is the first-of-its-kind in Canada. Surveys in the neighbourhood were analyzed to explore the social
benefits, associations between demographics and perceptions, and potential for replication in similar urban neighbourhood contexts. The results from independent sample t-tests and ANOVA tests indicate community member’s age and status as a parent was statistically significant to perceptions of community connectivity following StreetPLAY programming. The findings from this research confirm the social benefits to the community and contribute to novel Canadian research on play interventions; they are a quick and inexpensive form of tactical urbanism programming to create opportunities for children’s outdoor free play and community gathering.

Keywords:
Outdoor play, streets as public space; tactical urbanism; community building, health and wellbeing
Where can Millennials afford to live within the city of Toronto
Authors: Laban Silvia
Published: May 2021

This research examines housing affordability as it pertains to millennials living in the City of Toronto. It explores literature, resale market data and planning policies to address the affordability crisis of housing in the City. It begins by a literature overview of the various definitions of affordability and examines the different historical economic methodologies used by
different levels of Canadian governments. This discussion is followed by a millennial demographic analysis of the City of Toronto as a whole, and of the 25 City Wards. Housing market trends are also discussed by considering central principles and potential implications for housing affordability. An income analysis to determine affordability within select Wards is also addressed using the residual income ratio method and economic market constraints. The paper concludes by addressing the issues of affordable housing through planning policies and makes recommendations for policies that relate to the issue on all levels of government.

Key Words:
A paper on housing affordability issues in Toronto, used the key words: Housing, Ownership, Rental, Affordable, Resale, Toronto, Millennial, Income
Investing in community: community land trusts and affordable housing in Calgary
Authors: Dow Leah
Published: May 2021

The cost of affordable rental units in Calgary is amongst the highest in Canada, despite a rental vacancy rate that is 3 percent higher than the national average (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, 2017). Nearly 1 in 5 Calgary households are struggling to pay for shelter costs and as of 2016, more than 42,000 households were spending more than 50 percent of their incomes on shelter, putting this population at a greater risk of becoming homeless due to job loss or from some other unexpected financial hardship (City of Calgary, 2017). Counter to popular belief, economically depressed communities with weak rental and housing markets such as Calgary following the 2015 collapse of the oil and gas sector can be subject to a critical lack of affordable housing. A soft housing market cannot make up for an insufficient range of affordable and non-market housing options. In other cities facing similar challenges, especially those in the United States, the formation of Community Land Trusts has proven to be a viable solution for providing both affordable rental and affordable ownership opportunities for residents who are struggling to afford the cost of housing in their area. This paper explores whether the Community Land Trust model is an appropriate tool to augment Calgary’s limited supply of affordable housing and will end with five recommendations to encourage the adoption of the Community Land Trust model in Calgary.
The impact of inclusionary zoning on Toronto's neighbourhoods
Authors: Kruger Matthew
Published: May 2021

Toronto has faced unprecedented growth in the condominium market over the last decade. Today, prices are unaffordable for many, leading to the proposed inclusionary zoning regulations by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs in December of 2017. The proposed regulations would undoubtedly impact financial aspects of residential real estate development, setting aside a maximum of ten percent of units for affordable ownership. Nevertheless, the adoption of inclusionary zoning in Toronto’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law has the potential to provide affordable home ownership for designated low-income inhabitants. The goal of this document is to analyze the financial impacts of the proposed inclusionary zoning regulations on current land prices and condominium price per square foot assumptions.

Key Words: Inclusionary Zoning, Affordable Housing, Toronto, Residual Land Value
Spatial income inequality in Toronto: a longitudinal study
Authors: Safonovs Candace
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the trends and changes in both spatial and non-spatial income inequality in the Toronto CMA between 1985 and 2015 at various geographic scales, including both within and between neighbourhoods. Fixed effects panel regression models are used to uncover which local demographic and housing characteristics are most significant in explaining changes in inequality within neighbourhoods over time.

Findings indicate that macro-scale income segregation among neighbourhoods has declined, while micro-scale intra-neighbourhood income segregation has increased since 1985. Further, compared to overall changes in income inequality in the region, neighbourhoods have become more homogenous in terms of their household income distribution. Thus, neighbourhood sorting by households based on income has increased since 1985. Consistent with extant literature, local housing characteristics have spillover effects on income segregation. Specifically, variables associated with greater housing affluence are negatively correlated with intra-neighbourhood inequality measures, and thus positively correlated with income homogenization. This confirms and adds to the literature that local land use regulations impact income
spatial inequality.

KEYWORDS
Spatial Income Inequality; Segregation; Neighbourhoods; Toronto CMA; Fixed Effects Models; Quantitative Analysis; GIS; Housing Regulation
Travel Lifestyles And The Built Environment: Exploring How Post-Secondary Students Navigate the GTHA
Authors: Nash Sean
Published: May 2021

This study explores the relationship between travel lifestyles and the built -environment in post-secondary students - a historically understudied section of the population- in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, Canada. An extensive, data-driven was used to classify students based on their travel patterns and neighbourhoods based on their built environment characteristics and explore correlations between the two. We identified five very distinct student travel lifestyles – Car users, Occasional Drivers, Transit Users, Cyclists and Walkers. Only 33% of Post Secondary students were identified as car dependent and a very high proportion of them are systematically multi-modal in their travel pattern. Alternatively, there is some indication that these changes may be a function of vehicle access. Atypically strong correlations between traveller types and the built environment in which they reside were also identified, particularly in certain neighbourhood types suggesting student travel may be more influenced by their environment.
Section 37 & the creative city: how density bonuses have secured cultural benefits in the city of Toronto
Authors: Davis Meaghan
Published: May 2021

Section 37 of the Planning Act authorizes Ontario municipalities to permit developments to achieve greater height and density than otherwise allowed in exchange for community benefits. Although land use planners rarely take a leading role in arts policy discussions, this planning tool has been identified as an important opportunity to support and grow Toronto’s arts and culture sector. This research project investigates how Section 37 agreements have been used to secure spaces for cultural production and dissemination in the City of Toronto. A mixed-methods approach is used to quantify these benefits and their distribution throughout the city, and to probe the experiences of cultural organizations in order to better understand who and what is relied upon to build new cultural spaces. The study concludes that land use planners must reinvent their approach to cultural planning and make proactive use of planning tools in order to support Toronto’s creative city goals.
An Exploration into the Creation of ‘Privately Owned Publicly Accessible Spaces’ in Toronto, Ontario
Authors: Ricker Claire
Published: May 2021

An exploratory research investigation into the creation of ‘privately owned publicly accessible spaces’ (POPS) in Toronto, Ontario and a critical review of the process used to secure these spaces and the subsequent agreements made. This paper seeks to answer if land use planners are able to better mediate the use of POPS as a means of providing open space to communities in high-density areas. This report includes the timeline illustrating the development of Toronto’s POPS program followed by a discussion on Toronto’s increase growth and development and the suitability of POPS as a contributing strategy for diminishing new park and open space assets and a high level breakdown of the legal mechanisms currently in place to help facilitate new POP spaces. Interviews with individuals from both the public and private sectors were conducted, which produced a generalized model outlining how POPS in Toronto are secured.