@masterthesis{deCarvalho, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {de Carvalho, Ben}, title = {Assessment of Emissions from Pig Transportation using the GLEC-Framework}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {70}, abstract = {With the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and the EU-Taxonomy, the European Union has introduced mandatory sustainability reporting for certain companies to which slaughterhouses and food retailers belong to. Any emission causing practices along the complete supply chain have to be reported on, so that stakeholders and investors have better access to information for their assessment of the respective companies. In the area of animal production, the current literature deems emissions from live-animal transports as negligible, thus the majority of research focused mainly on assessing emission from on-farm operations. In conjunction with the development of an emissions calculator for live-animal transports, this paper deployed the in 2023 released Global-Logistics-Emissions-Council-Framework v3 for the first time to different exemplary transportation scenarios of live-pigs (Sus scrof domesticus) in Germany. The results showed that indeed the contribution of live-animal transport to the total emissions of animal products is significantly low. However, the assessed emissions are still a valuable parameter for sustainability reports as more data enables more accurate evaluations by stakeholders.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Kapinos2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Kapinos, Noah Joel}, title = {The impact of Social Media Advertisements on the Buying Behavior of Gen Z}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21949}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {58}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Social media has changed digital marketing, which makes it possible for businesses to engage with consumers through targeted advertising. Generation Z is an important demographic because they spend a high amount of time on social media platforms and have strong purchasing power. This study explores the impact of social media advertisements on the buying behavior of Generation Z by investigating key factors such as platform preferences, ad effectiveness, trust in social media advertisements, and purchasing motivations. By using a mixed method approach, this study gives insights into the impact of social media advertisements from 200 participants with a survey. The findings show that Instagram and TikTok are the most influential social media platforms in driving purchasing decisions, while Facebook does not have a strong impact on this generation. In addition, this study emphasizes that specific advertising formats, such as Instagram Stories and TikTok In-Feed ads, are the most effective in catching attention and influencing purchases. Furthermore, this study shows that trust plays an important role in social media advertising and many consumers from this generation are skeptical toward social media advertisements over traditional stores emphasizing that companies need to prioritize authenticity, transparency, and influencer marketing. This research provides important insights for businesses to improve their digital marketing strategies and improve engagement with Generation Z. Companies can have higher conversion rates and enhance their advertising effectiveness by focusing on platform-specific ad formats, personalized advertisements, and trust building to influence this generation.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Besliu2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Besliu, Stas}, title = {Emulsion splitting by applying CO2 and pressure}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21931}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {55}, year = {2025}, abstract = {This investigation is focused on analysing pressurized CO2 injection as a technique for breaking oil-in-water emulsions and proposing an efficient substitute for conventional methods. The destabilisation mechanisms, flotation rate acceleration, and segregation of phases in the system undergo considerable improvement through CO2 microbubbles formation. The ability to effectively separate and isolate aqueous and oil phases is important for treating industrial wastewater, hence optimizing waste reduction and resource recovery. The laboratory studies explore various operational parameters, such as CO₂ consumption efficiency, pressure variations, and residence time, in order to optimize splitting in various emulsion mixtures. The studies proved to effectively provide up to 95\% total organic carbon (TOC) reduction, particularly achieved in combination with prolonged flotation and settling. Significantly, treatment by CO2-induced separations proved to have most efficiency in synthetic Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SDS)-based emulsions and in industrial scenarios such as in cooling lubricants. In addition, prolonging flotation time to an overnight timeframe significantly increased TOC reduction in the case of the SDS emulsion. The presented results offer a new look over the experimental development of separation technologies, demonstrating the effective splitting of emulsions by injecting CO2 without additional pressure input and thus its feasibility in an industrial setting. In addition to providing a chemical-free separation alternative, this method offers the advantage of reduced energy input and the potential for CO2 recapture and reuse as well as oil recovery.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Sund2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Sund, Louiza}, title = {The potential of direct marketing within the transformation process to sustainable farming in Lower Saxony, Germany}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21921}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {72}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Family farms present the majority of farms worldwide, and their survival is crucial to support the growing world population. Preventing those farms from disappearing is therefore very important. These family farms face many challenges like high investments and high price volatility. Diversification in form of direct marketing can be one way to reduce these risks. Objective was to determine the state of direct marketing usage, faced challenges in a direct marketing system, which role counselling services play in that scenario and how farmers perceive sustainability in general and in context with direct marketing. These objectives were reviewed with a quantitative study conducted by an anonymous online survey. Provided to farmers of Lower Saxony by counselling rings, network "LandTouristik Niedersachsen", network "Kompetenzzentrum {\"O}kolandbau Niedersachsen" and the Chamber of Agriculture. Direct marketing usage had increased over the last years and did not depend on the way of farming. On farm direct marketing solutions like a farm shop were most popular, most likely because it can be a low-cost solution. Bureaucracy, marketing and economic viability are the major challenges in direct marketing systems and correlate with reasons why direct marketing was not used. These presented a clear work order for government, science and counselling services, and show a high potential in increasing farm sustainability. Counselling services presented to be only used if free options were exploited, which emphasized the importance of high quality counselling offers. Overall, on-farm factors stood in favor for diversification and in combination with the as important stated status of sustainability for farmers, direct marketing most likely holds potential to positively impact the transformation to sustainable farming in Lower Saxony.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2190, title = {13/2025 Zweite {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Zugangsordnung f{\"u}r die Masterstudieng{\"a}nge Mechanical Engineering und Bionics der Fakult{\"a}t Technologie und Bionik an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 08.01.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {13}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21901}, pages = {3}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{TayebiJazayeriAbouDargham2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Tayebi Jazayeri, Seyed Omid and Abou Dargham, Karim}, title = {The Impact of Corporate Taxation on Social Inequality: A Case Study of selected OECD Countries}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21875}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {103}, year = {2025}, abstract = {The relevance of corporate taxation in the context of redistribution has recently been undermined, meanwhile, income and wealth inequality are globally on the rise. Profit shifting, tax avoidance, deductions, and exemptions in current international tax practices have contributed to lower tax revenues worldwide, splitting the consideration of corporate tax rates into two: statutory vs effective. In light of this, this thesis examines the relationship between corporate taxation and social inequality. The effects of statutory and effective tax rates on both income and wealth inequality (measured by their respective Gini-coefficients) are compared. A panel data regression model was carried out using SPSS. The model was applied to a selection of 10 OECD countries, spanning over a 6-year period from 2017 to 2022. The regression model indicates a significant relationship between income inequality (income Gini-coefficient) and the two corporate tax rates (estimates of -0.332 for statutory and -0.311 for effective). However, a significant relationship between wealth inequality (wealth Gini-coefficient) and the two tax rates was not identified. In addition, limitations regarding heteroscedasticity, potential endogeneity issues, and the small data set were addressed in detail but not completely ruled out. Implications include the effectiveness of progressive corporate taxation as a redistributive tool in the case of income inequality and the investigation of alternative taxes for tackling wealth inequality. The need for policies that push for easier attainment of data on wealth inequality is crucial for future research on the matter.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2185, title = {12/2025 Geb{\"u}hrenordnung der Bibliothek der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 30.01.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {12}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21854}, pages = {5}, language = {de} } @misc{Muthyapaga2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Muthyapaga, Sujit Kumar}, title = {Enhancing Plastic Degradation in Anaerobic Environments Using Biodigesters and qualitative quantitative analysis of biogas.}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Plastic pollution has been one of the significant challenges worldwide. We must develop innovations and recycling technologies with millions of tons of plastic produced annuallyThe amount of plastic waste in landfills, seas, and ecosystems has been seriously degrading the environment. New innovative ideas for reducing plastic waste, such as biodigesters and composting methods, are being utilized worldwide. This research examines options such as anaerobic biodigesters and composting techniques to improve plastic breakdown in controlled atmosphere conditions. In anaerobic digestion, digestion happens with the help of microbial organisms as they help break down the organic materials without oxygen and break down the plastics, simultaneously generating renewable energy resources. This research evaluates polymers developed through a blown film extrusion process at different temperatures, such as Polylactic Acid (PLA), Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT), Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxy hexanoate(PHBH), Bioplast GF 106, and Ecovio, under anaerobic conditions. The degradation results of polymers after a specific period were analyzed based on their mechanical and chemical properties. The research aimed to assess the rates and effectiveness of plastic decomposition in biodigesters compared to conventional degradation methods while also exploring the viability and scalability of biodigesters for managing plastic waste. This research provides information on the degradation of polymers under anaerobic conditions and how the temperature produced affects their degradation, along with methane production. This information could inform future strategies and regulations focused on decreasing plastic pollution and improving sustainability.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Dierkes2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Dierkes, Annika Marie}, title = {{\"U}ber Kochbox Prototypen f{\"u}r eine ges{\"u}ndere und nachhaltigere Lebensmittelauswahl im Supermarkt}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Helou2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Helou, Ziad}, title = {Opportunities and challenges for the solar industry in Lebanon.}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Lebanon faces a significant energy crisis characterized by unreliable electricity supply, political instability, and outdated infrastructure. This thesis explores the potential of solar energy as a sustainable solution to address these challenges, focusing on economic, technical, and regulatory barriers while drawing comparative insights from Cyprus's renewable energy model. The research examines three primary questions regarding the economic and technical challenges hindering solar energy adoption in Lebanon, the lessons that can be learned from Cyprus to inform solutions, and the comprehensive strategies that can support the development of Lebanon's solar energy sector. The findings reveal that while Lebanon has experienced rapid growth in solar energy adoption, the sector is undermined by systemic issues such as low-quality imports, skill gaps, insufficient grid infrastructure, and the dominance of diesel generators. Comparative analysis with Cyprus underscores the importance of robust regulatory frameworks, financial accessibility, public-private partnerships, and accreditation systems for solar installers. Additionally, the analysis highlights the critical role of improving capacity factors in Lebanon, with findings showing that even a 1\% increase could supply power to over 16,000 homes, emphasizing the potential efficiency gains for Lebanon's solar energy sector. The thesis also evaluates Lebanon's progress toward its 2030 renewable energy targets, noting that while the country appears to have met these targets in percentage terms, the achievement is largely a result of reduced electricity generation rather than genuine renewable capacity growth. Recommendations include enforcing quality standards, establishing national accreditation systems, addressing corruption, and leveraging international funding for infrastructure modernization and workforce development. This research emphasizes that Lebanon's transition to renewable energy is not only a technical and economic endeavor but also a pathway to greater energy independence and environmental sustainability.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{GumielSilva, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Gumiel Silva, Karen}, title = {DECOLONIZING THE INDIGENOUS FEMALE BODY IN BOLIVIA: BRAIDS AND ATTIRE.}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21809}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {68}, abstract = {This thesis explores the decolonization of the Indigenous female body in Bolivia, focusing on the cultural significance of traditional attire and hair practices among Chola women. It examines how the pollera (traditional skirt) and braids, initially imposed during the colonial era, have been reappropriated as symbols of cultural pride and resistance against ongoing discrimination. Through ethnographic research, including interviews and digital ethnography, this study investigates how Chola women navigate and redefine their identities within a society marked by racial and social hierarchies. The research draws upon postcolonial feminist theories, particularly the works of Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, An{\´i}bal Quijano, and Mar{\´i}a Lugones, to analyze the complex interplay of power, representation, and agency in the context of Bolivian Chola culture. The findings highlight the resilience and agency of Chola women in transforming symbols of oppression into powerful expressions of cultural identity and resistance, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of their experiences in contemporary Bolivian society.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2176, title = {11/2025 Dritte {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r den Bachelorstudiengang Biomaterials Science an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 10.03.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {11}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21762}, pages = {7}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2175, title = {10/2025 Pr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering for Sustainability" an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 18.02.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {10}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21755}, pages = {9}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2174, title = {09/2025 Pr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering" an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 18.02.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {9}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21748}, pages = {16}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Erarslan2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Erarslan, Kerem}, title = {"Failed Innovations - What can we learn from failures?"}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21738}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {56}, year = {2025}, abstract = {In today's fast-changing world, innovation is essential for staying competitive and makes it very important to understand what leads to the success or failure of innovations. This thesis examines the question: "How can lessons from failed innovations be used to improve organizational strategies and boost future innovation success?". With the help of a comprehensive analysis of case studies involving mainly failed innovations, this study identifies the key lessons that companies learn from past failures. Using a solid theoretical framework, including the innovation matrix and innovation management success factors, the study highlights the importance of organizational learning, the importance of corporate identity, adaptability and strategic alignment. The results of this paper show that companies can improve their innovation strategies by analyzing failures in a systematic way, embracing a culture of defensibility and implementing structured processes for regular improvement. The results also show that a company's own corporate identity, combined with the loyalty of its customers, can sometimes be of great value. The study contributes to innovation management by providing actionable recommendations for innovators trying to manage the complexity of innovation in a fast-changing environment. Finally, the insights gained from this study emphasize the value of learning from mistakes as a path to sustainable innovation success.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Olfert, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Olfert, Jennifer}, title = {Sustainability and the Fast Fashion Paradox of Gen Z - A qualitative Analysis of Consumer Characteristics and Cognitive Dissonance}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21720}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {158}, abstract = {This study delves into the fashion preferences and decision-making processes of six Gen-Z participants, shedding light on their intricate choices. Despite a shared emphasis on visually appealing fashion and moderate sustainability knowledge, participants showed a limited inclination towards sustainable choices. Notably, price takes precedence, reflecting a prevalent budget-conscious approach. Surprisingly, participants exhibit a low preference for consistency, challenging the expectation of significant cognitive dissonance in their fashion choices. The results suggest a minimal role of cognitive dissonance, indicating a relaxed decision-making style. The study underscores the dominance of ultra-fast fashion, design, and affordability in participants' choices. Future research is encouraged to address and reduce Gen-Z's (ultra-) fast fashion consumption, promoting sustainability knowledge and a greater preference for sustainable fashion.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Kong2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Kong, Xin}, title = {Brief Introduction to Chinese Economy and its Relationship with World Commodity Prices}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {This thesis examines the intricate relationship between China's economic development and global price dynamics across various industries. Since the implementation of economic reforms in 1978, China has transitioned from a largely agrarian society to a global industrial powerhouse, profoundly influencing international markets. This study investigates how China's rapid industrialization and expanding demand for raw materials, such as oil, steel, and copper, have led to price fluctuations worldwide, contributing to rising commodity prices while simultaneously driving down costs in the consumer goods sector through low-cost manufacturing exports. By reviewing existing literature and analyzing economic data, this research seeks to identify the key mechanisms linking China's economic activities to global price changes. This study provides insights into the potential impacts of similar developmental trajectories in other emerging economies, illustrating how economic policies, resource demands, and export-driven manufacturing contribute to shaping global market trends. Findings from this thesis can aid policymakers, economists, and business leaders in anticipating future global economic patterns driven by rising emerging economies.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Friedrich2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Friedrich, Fabian}, title = {Wie beeinflussen Wertsch{\"a}tzung am Arbeitsplatz, wahrgenommene organisationale Unterst{\"u}tzung und psychologische Sicherheit die Arbeitszufriedenheit, Absentismus und Fluktuation?}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21694}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {99}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit war es den Einfluss zwischen Wertsch{\"a}tzung am Arbeitsplatz, wahrgenommener organisationaler Unterst{\"u}tzung (POS) und psychologischer Sicherheit mit der Arbeitszufriedenheit, Absentismus und Fluktuationsabsicht anhand einer deutschen Stichprobe zu untersuchen. Es wurde zudem erwartet, dass Wertsch{\"a}tzung eine vermittelnde und moderierende Rolle hinsichtlich der wahrgenommenen organisationalen Unterst{\"u}tzung einnimmt. Dazu fand eine Querschnittsuntersuchung vom 02.12. bis 18.12.2024 mittels Online-Fragebogen statt. Zum Einsatz kamen gr{\"o}ßtenteils bew{\"a}hrte Messinstrumente der quantitativen Forschung. F{\"u}r die Messung des Absentismus in Form von krankheitsbedingten Fehlzeiten wurde ein Item aus der empirischen Forschung gebildet. Zudem wurden demografische Daten (z.B. Alter, Geschlecht, Arbeitszeitmodell) erfasst. Nach Bereinigung der Stichprobe umfasste diese 55 deutsche Teilnehmende im Alter von 20 bis 66 Jahren, wobei 53\% weiblich und 47\% m{\"a}nnlich waren. Es zeigte sich, dass Wertsch{\"a}tzung am Arbeitsplatz isoliert und im Zusammenspiel mit POS einen Einfluss auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit und Fluktuationsabsicht von Mitarbeitenden hat. Des Weiteren konnte Wertsch{\"a}tzung den Effekt von POS auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit partiell vermitteln. Zudem konnte ein signifikanter Interaktionseffekt zwischen POS und Wertsch{\"a}tzung auf den Absentismus gezeigt werden. POS und psychologische Sicherheit konnten isoliert betrachtet einen Einfluss auf die Auspr{\"a}gung der Arbeitszufriedenheit aus{\"u}ben. Aufgrund des geringen Stichprobenumfangs und eingeschr{\"a}nkter Repr{\"a}sentativit{\"a}t sollten die Ergebnisse durch weitere Studien repliziert werden. Die Limitationen der Untersuchung sowie Implikationen wurden in dieser Arbeit diskutiert.}, language = {de} } @misc{SarmientoGonzalez2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Sarmiento Gonzalez, Maria Angelica}, title = {Sustainable commercialization of Baru in the Cerrado: mapping its Value Chain for rural livelihood enhancement}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Land-use transformation and insufficiently protected areas have led to extensive deforestation and conversion of native vegetation for croplands and pastures in the Cerrado, Brazil's second-largest ecosystem and one of the world's biggest biodiversity hotspots. The sustainable harvesting and commercialization of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) offer a potential alternative, contributing to sustainable development by enhancing rural livelihoods, promoting environmental conservation, fostering economic diversification, empowering vulnerable socio-economic groups, and encouraging sustainable resource management. Among Cerrado's promising NTFPs is the Baru nut (Dipteryx alata), a nutrient-dense product rich in protein, fiber, zinc, and healthy oils, with potential therapeutic applications for various health issues. Its unique composition and versatility present an opportunity for sustainable commercialization that enhances rural livelihoods while promoting health benefits. Incorporating Baru-related products into local, national, and international markets could diversify economic opportunities while maintaining environmentally sustainable practices in both production and commercialization. Despite its potential, research on Baru remains scarce, creating a knowledge gap in the dynamics and challenges of its value chain. This study addresses this gap by employing a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the financial performance of each stage of the Baru value chain and identify existing challenges and market opportunities. Focused on Arinos, Minas Gerais, the research incorporates 29 interviews with local value chain actors, 14 supplementary interviews with institutional stakeholders, and secondary data analysis. The findings reveal a fragmented and predominantly informal value chain at the local level, faced with challenges such as physically intensive work, unreliable demand, power imbalances, low-profit margins, and limited institutional support. This research proposes strategies to foster collaboration, equity, transparency, and sustainable development of Baru's value chain and contributes to a deeper understanding of this NTFP.}, language = {en} } @misc{Yarram2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Yarram, Sunnyvijay}, title = {Investigation of Anaerobic Digestion of Selected Bioplastics in Pilot-Scale Biodigesters}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21673}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {102}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Concerns have been raised about the end-of-life management of bioplastics as their demand increasing as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. The fate of bioplastic waste, especially packaging waste, remains largely unexplored in existing waste management systems. Anaerobic digestion (AD) is considered as a viable end-of-life option for bioplastics, however, current research has been primarily limited to lab-scale studies. This study investigated the anaerobic digestion of film samples made from Bioplast 106, PBAT, PLA and Ecovio (PLA/PBAT blend) under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions in pilot-scale biodigesters. The results of 90-day thermophilic AD demonstrated that PLA and Ecovio exhibited significant biodegradation of 36\% and 50\% by dry mass loss, respectively, while Bioplast 106 exhibited moderate biodegradation of 22.22\%. The collective methane yield from these three bioplastics was 322.86 mL CH4/g VS, indicating their potential for biogas production. SEM and FT-IR analyses confirmed structural degradation of Bioplast 106, PLA, and Ecovio, while no degradation was observed for PBAT. PBAT showed high resistance to AD in pure and blended form (Bioplast 106, Ecovio). Bioplast 106 exhibited diverse degradation patterns, influenced by feedstock type, digester temperature, and processing conditions. This study might serves as valuable reference for assessing the anaerobic biodegradability of Bioplast 106 in pilot-scale biodigesters. This study further highlights the necessity of optimization of pilot-scale AD conditions to enhance the anaerobic biodegradability of slow-degrading bioplastics.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{DosSantos2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Dos Santos, Leonardo Henrique}, title = {The effects of cannabinoids CBD and WIN 55 212-2 against oxidative stress in BR1 Astrocytes from a proteomic viewpoint}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21665}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {92}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Oxidative stress is a common hallmark observed in neurodegenerative diseases, acting either as a triggering factor or as a consequence of the neurodegenerative process. Astrocytes play a crucial role in mediating oxidative stress caused by physiological processes, such as the byproducts of mitochondrial function during cellular respiration. Given the critical role of oxidative stress in the progression of many neurodegenerative diseases, identifying molecules capable of modulating this response and mitigating oxidative damage is of considerable interest. Cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and WIN 55.212-2, known for their capability of influencing the endocannabinoid system through their interaction with cannabinoid receptors (namely, CB1R and CB2R), and therefore the Central Nervous System, are promising candidates for such modulation. This work aimed to explore, through proteomics, the potential effect that the mentioned cannabinoids might have against oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide in astrocytes, possibly mitigating some of the oxidative damage.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2165, title = {08/2025 Ordnung {\"u}ber die Auslaufplanung f{\"u}r den Bachelorstudiengang „Nachhaltiger Tourismus" der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft \& {\"O}konomie an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 04.02.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {8}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21657}, pages = {5}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2164, title = {07/2025 Dritte {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r den Masterstudiengang Economics and Finance der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie vom 14.01.2025}, volume = {2025}, number = {07}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21648}, pages = {5}, language = {de} } @misc{Pozdnyakova2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Pozdnyakova, Olga}, title = {Exploring the Impact of Ecolabel Elements on Consumer Product Perception and Purchase Intention}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Ecolabelling is a tool that aims to engage consumers in making more sustainable choices, by communicating the environmental characteristics of a product. Previous studies have emphasized the significant impact of design and ecolabel elements in capturing consumers' attention and influencing their preferences. However, only a limited number of studies have explored the effect of individual ecolabel elements and their orchestration in regard to visual attention and consumers perception, particularly in the context of textile products. The aim of the present study was to provide new insights into effective ecolabel design practices by investigating the influence of color, visual symbol, and text on consumers' visual attention, environmental product perception and purchase intention. The current study employed a mixed method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. The integrated methods included a review of existing ecolabels in the textile industry, an eye tracking experiment with sixteen custom-designed ecolabels, questionnaires, interviews, and a card sorting task. Visual attention was measured with the eye tracking, while other methods were employed to deepen the understanding of consumers' perception and reasoning behind their decision-making. The results of the study revealed that the green ecolabels with natural symbols, such as Cotton and Leaf, received the highest environmental friendliness and purchase intention ratings, with the green Cotton ecolabel demonstrating the highest rate of visual attention engagement. In contrast, blue ecolabels were perceived as less environmentally friendly, particularly those with the visual symbols unrelated to nature. In addition, precise environmental claims with numerical data, such as "90\% Organic cotton", in combination with a website link, had a positive impact on trust and environmental perception. However, their role in visual attention and environmental perception was found to be less significant compared to the color and visual symbol. The findings contribute to textile research, highlighting the importance of the ecolabel context, visual symbol and color in ecolabel design, and providing new insights about visual attention patterns. The study outlines practical recommendations that can be utilized by professionals developing or redesigning ecolabels, in order to effectively communicate the characteristics of sustainable products.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Bollig2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Bollig, Natalie}, title = {Analyse gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit und Pr{\"a}vention im Kreis Kleve anhand der Schuleingangsuntersuchung mit Ableitung von Pr{\"a}ventionsmaßnahmen}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21623}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {216}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Das Thema dieser Arbeit ist „Analyse gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit und Pr{\"a}vention im Kreis Kleve anhand der Schuleingangsuntersuchung mit Ableitung von Pr{\"a}ventionsmaßnahmen" und betrachtet die Entwicklung ausgew{\"a}hlter Parameter der Schuleingangsuntersuchung und gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit in den 16 Kommunen des Kreises Kleve {\"u}ber die Jahre 2018 bis 2024. Weiterhin werden die Kommunen und Parameter der Schuleingangsuntersuchung bestimmt, die unterhalb des Mittelwertes des Kreises Kleve liegen. Mit Hilfe dieser beiden Fragen werden Ansatzpunkte f{\"u}r Pr{\"a}ventionsmaßnahmen bestimmt. Die n{\"a}chsten beiden Forschungsfragen betrachten die Zusammenh{\"a}nge zwischen den untersuchten Parametern. Die Ergebnisse werden mit dem aktuellen Forschungsstand verglichen und eingeordnet. Die erste Forschungsfrage wird graphisch mit Boxplots, Balkendiagrammen und Qualit{\"a}tsregelkarten beantwortet. Bei der zweiten Forschungsfrage wird ein t-Test verwendet und diese Ergebnisse im Anschluss mit positiv und negativ bewertet. Bei der dritten und vierten Forschungsfrage werden Korrelationskoeffizienten nach Pearson und Spearman ermittelt. In der ersten Forschungsfrage k{\"o}nnen beim BMI eine schwache Entwicklung festgestellt werden sowie bei der K{\"o}rperkoordination eine Verbesserung. Die Impfquote ist stabil und die Teilnahme an den U-Untersuchungen steigt. Der Anteil der Kinder mit der Erstsprache Deutsch steigt bis zum Jahr 2021/2022 und sinkt anschließend. Der Anteil der B{\"u}rgergeldempf{\"a}nger sinkt bis zum Jahr 2021/2022 und steigt anschließend, auch der Mietspiegel steigt. Bei den Parametern Kinder- und Jugend{\"a}rzte, Bewegungsangebote und Migrationsanteil kann keine Entwicklung ausgewertet werden. Bei der zweiten Forschungsfrage sind in den n{\"o}rdlichen Kommunen mehr negative Bewertungen als in den s{\"u}dlichen Kommunen ermittelt worden. Diese negativen Bewertungen zeigen sich bei der Teilnahme an den Impfungen, der K{\"o}rperkoordination und den U-Untersuchungen. Bei der dritten Forschungsfrage k{\"o}nnen starke Zusammenh{\"a}nge innerhalb der U-Untersuchungen und innerhalb der Impfungen erfasst werden. Zwischen diesen beiden Parametern besteht ein mittlerer Zusammenhang. Bei der Erstsprache kann ein geringer negativer Zusammenhang zu der Teilnahme an den U-Untersuchungen und den Impfungen bestimmt werden. Zu den Parametern K{\"o}rperkoordination und BMI k{\"o}nnen keine Zusammenh{\"a}nge analysiert werden. Bei der vierten Forschungsfrage k{\"o}nnen keine Korrelationen festgestellt werden. Insgesamt k{\"o}nnen mit Hilfe dieser Ergebnisse Pr{\"a}ventionsmaßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Parameter BMI, K{\"o}rperkoordination, Impfquote und U-Untersuchungen ermittelt werden.}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Kisters2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Kisters, Sina}, title = {Belastungen im Berufsalltag einer p{\"a}dagogischen Fachkraft und der professionelle Umgang mit Diesen}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {P{\"a}dagogische Fachkr{\"a}fte sind in ihrem Berufsalltag mit vielf{\"a}ltigen Belastungen konfrontiert, darunter hoher Zeitdruck, Personalmangel und steigende berufliche Anforderungen. Diese Faktoren f{\"u}hren zu erheblichen psychischen und physischen Beanspruchungen, die sich auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit und die p{\"a}dagogische Qualit{\"a}t auswirken k{\"o}nnen. Ziel dieser Bachelorarbeit ist es, individuelle und institu-tionelle Strategien zur Bew{\"a}ltigung dieser Belastungen zu untersuchen. Mithilfe einer anonymen Onlineumfrage und eines Experteninterviews wurden so-wohl pers{\"o}nliche als auch strukturelle Bew{\"a}ltigungsmechanismen erfasst. Die Er-gebnisse zeigen, dass Fachkr{\"a}fte vor allem auf soziale Unterst{\"u}tzung, sportliche Aktivit{\"a}ten und informelle Gespr{\"a}che mit Kolleginnen und Kollegen setzen, w{\"a}h-rend professionelle Hilfsangebote wie Supervision oder Coaching selten genutzt werden. Institutionelle Maßnahmen wie Fortbildungen und Teambuilding-Aktivit{\"a}ten werden zwar als hilfreich wahrgenommen, sind jedoch h{\"a}ufig unzureichend vor-handen. Theoretisch unterstreichen die Ergebnisse die Bedeutung von Schutzfaktoren wie Resilienz, sozialer Unterst{\"u}tzung und einer positiven Arbeitsumgebung. Praktisch ergibt sich daraus die Notwendigkeit, betriebliche Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung auszu-bauen, Arbeitsbedingungen durch bessere Personalbemessung und flexible Struk-turen zu optimieren und Leitungskr{\"a}fte gezielt in der F{\"o}rderung eines gesunden Arbeitsklimas zu schulen. Nur durch eine Kombination individueller und institutio-neller Maßnahmen kann langfristig eine nachhaltige Verbesserung der Arbeitsbe-dingungen p{\"a}dagogischer Fachkr{\"a}fte erreicht werden.}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Nguyen2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Nguyen, Duc Huy Quang}, title = {Debugging and Analyzing USB Communication on a Custom USB-LORA Board Using Open-Source USB Tracing Tools}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {This thesis presents a method and highlights the effectiveness of Universal Serial Bus (USB) tracing tools (USB sniffers) to debug and analyze USB communication during the development of a custom USB board. The custom board in this project, referred to as the USB2LORA board, is a printed circuit board (PCB) that integrates a FT232H USB 2.0 high-speed chip with a wireless LoRa transceiver. The primary objective of this thesis is to investigate how effective USB sniffer is in debugging and analyzing USB traffic between a USB device and a USB host, verifying the USB traffic against the standard, and detecting potential anomalies in communication. Using the USB sniffer, I successfully captured the essential USB communication processes, including the host's recognition of the USB2LORA boards, retrieval of its configuration details, and the exchange of control commands and data between the USB2LORA boards and the USB host. During the recognition phase, the host requested and retrieved information about the USB2LORA board, containing its configuration, the type of data it can send and receive, and details about the buffers used to store or prepare the data during USB transmission. In subsequent data exchange phases, the results show that the host effectively sent control commands to configure the USB chip and to initiate communication with the wireless transceiver. The observed USB traffic aligned well with the USB standard and confirmed the correct behavior of the USB2LORA boards. Overall, the incorporation of a USB sniffer into the development and verification process of a custom USB board allows effective debugging of USB traffic and ensures adherence to the USB specification. Moreover, it enables developers to confirm the expected behavior of their software and their USB peripheral board as well as detect any anomalies in the communication.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Menon, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Menon, Praanav Mahadev}, title = {Using the U-Net Model for Steel Microstructure Identification and Analysis}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-20600}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {95}, abstract = {This thesis presents the development and training of a U-Net- a convolutional neural network (CNN) model for the segmentation and classification of 4 microstructural phases in C45 steel: retained austenite, martensite, pearlite, and ferrite. It also features the steps taken to prepare the metallographic samples. The U-Net was designed and developed for biomedical microscopy imaging but has a wide array of uses for semantic segmentation in other fields as well. Utilizing Nital-etched microscopy images, the network was trained to identify and differentiate between these microstructures, which is critical for determining the mechanical properties of the steel. The dataset is comprised of a set of 35 grayscale images, and its corresponding labels/masks annotated with 4 colours for the various phases. Moreover, this thesis is an attempt at using deep learning to segregate retained austenite from martensite through visual LOM methods, as opposed to EBSD and XRD which are the widely used methods for identifying and quantifying retained austenite in a sample. The trained network demonstrated reasonable performance in segmenting the microstructural components. This research highlights the potential of deep learning approaches in materials science, particularly for automating the analysis of metallographic images, contributing to more efficient and precise material characterization.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Nguyen2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Nguyen, Duong Hoang Phuong}, title = {Decolonizing French loanwords in Vietnamese}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {For nearly a century, Vietnam was under French rule, a period that saw the introduction of new concepts, foods, clothing, and occupations. However, these objects were never meant for good, but rather instruments of colonial control. Over time, the local population adopted their names into everyday language, turning them into loanwords. Today, while most traces of the colonial era have faded, these loanwords persist. This raises a crucial question: Do loanwords serve as remnants of colonialism? And what role can a designer play in reclaiming them?}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Sommerfeld2024, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Sommerfeld, Jakub Jerzy}, title = {Analysis of Health Literacy among Young Adults}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2024}, abstract = {This study investigates several key questions related to health literacy, text difficulty, and AI-generated content. Our research explores whether there is a statistical significance in the perceived difficulty of texts based on their authorship (human-translated to layman language, AI-translated, and original excerpts from a medical book), the correlation between participants' evaluations of text difficulty and quantitative analysis of these texts using JASNOPIS, and the relationship between health literacy levels and the ability to recognise AI-generated work. Additionally, the study examines the impact of exposure to AI-made writing on recognising AI-generated content and the relationship between health literacy levels and perceived text difficulty. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 94 participants, collecting data through online questionnaires between September 19, 2024, and October 9, 2024. Key findings include significant correlations between average perceived difficulty and several JASNOPIS variables. The study also highlights the lack of a significant relationship between exposure to AI-made writing and the ability to recognise AI-generated work. However, the findings indicate that individuals who scored higher on health literacy tests perceived the texts to be easier. The implications of this research emphasise the importance of enhancing health-related and educational materials using plain language principles to improve accessibility and comprehension. Future studies should consider using more objective measures to avoid the influence of personal biases.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Marchesi2024, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Marchesi, Elena}, title = {The Role of Demographic Factors in Journalistic Trust Post-COVID-19: A Questionnaire Analysis}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2024}, abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly reshaped many aspects of society worldwide, including public trust in science and journalism. This thesis investigates both reasons and demographic factors (e.g., age, education, political orientation, etc.) influencing these trust dynamics as a result of the pandemic. Two countries with distinct cultural and socioeconomical differences are considered: Germany and Nigeria. Through a mixed-methods analysis of a pre-tested, pre-registered, cross-sectional online survey conducted in Germany and Nigeria in February 2023, several patterns are identified. The COVID-19 pandemic drove an increase in trust in science in both countries, while a marginal increase in trust in journalism was observed in Nigeria and a substantial decrease in Germany; this decline affected all demographics in the latter country. The thesis concludes with an outlook on further research. This includes conducting follow-up interviews to additionally explore reasons behind reported trust changes as well as the relationship between demographic factors and trust levels; performing a larger-scale survey with the aim of statistical significance and generalisability is further recommended.}, language = {en} } @misc{Rostalski2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Rostalski, Sarah-Maria}, title = {Radio Astronomy Essentials: Calibration Techniques with the 2.3m Radio Telescope at Rhine-Waal University}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21533}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {88}, year = {2025}, abstract = {This thesis discusses calibration and, in this context, multiple ways of determining the system temperature of the 2.3-metre radio telescope at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences in Kamp-Lintfort. Two methods for determining the system temperature are described here: the hot/cold-method and the derivation from the radiometer equation using measurement data from a source with a known brightness temperature, in this case, S7. Both methods deliver different results, depending on the measurements and assumptions on which they are based. The results show that the data basis and uncertainties should always be considered when analysing the observational data to be able to evaluate the results correctly. Overall, the telescope is quite suitable for educational observations, especially of the 21-cm line of neutral hydrogen. Furthermore, instructions have been created for the various tasks so that the results are reproducible and comprehensible. The entire process is made transparent, from planning the observations and setting up the telescope to measuring and analysing the data. In addition, basic concepts of radio astronomy are described in theory to provide valuable background knowledge. On this basis, the use of the telescope enables students and amateur astronomers to understand and apply the basic principles of radio astronomy and to plan and carry out their own observations.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Melnic2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Melnic, Snejana}, title = {Drawbacks of law enforcement in the Euregio Rhine-Waal: the case of work migrants' exploitation in the border region}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {This thesis examines the challenges of enforcing labor protection for migrant workers in the Euregio Rhine-Waal, a dynamic cross-border region extended across Germany and the Netherlands. The study addresses three core research questions: the specific difficulties faced by migrant workers in accessing adequate housing, fair labor rights, and social security; the role of EU directives and Member State discretion in shaping labor protections; and the enforcement gaps impacting workers' rights and well-being. A qualitative approach was applied, focusing on the analysis of EU regulations, national policies, and case studies to identify systemic barriers and regulatory inconsistencies. The findings reveal significant disparities in housing standards, labor conditions, and access to social security, driven by divergent interpretations of EU directives by Germany and the Netherlands. Additionally, the lack of coordinated cross-border enforcement amplifies these issues, leaving many migrant workers vulnerable to exploitation. The study concludes that addressing these challenges requires enhanced cross-border cooperation, greater regulatory alignment, and targeted policy reforms to bridge the enforcement gaps. These recommendations aim to uphold the EU's core value of free movement while ensuring social equity for migrant workers. This research contributes to the broader discourse on labor mobility by highlighting the interplay between legal frameworks and social justice in cross-border regions.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2151, title = {06/2025 Zweite {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung des Bachelorstudiengangs Nachhaltiger Tourismus der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie vom 11.11.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {06}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21515}, pages = {5}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2150, title = {05/2025 Zweite {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung des Bachelorstudiengangs International Taxation and Law der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie vom 27.11.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {05}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21509}, pages = {6}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2149, title = {04/2025 Dritte {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r den Bachelorstudiengang International Business and Management der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie vom 11.11.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {04}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21494}, pages = {7}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2148, title = {03/2025 Zweite {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Pr{\"u}fungsordnung des Bachelorstudiengangs International Relations der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie vom 11.01.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {03}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21480}, pages = {5}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Klose2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Klose, Hanna Lara Sophie}, title = {Development of an Online Presence for Northstar Roleplay}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {In this thesis, the multiplayer modification RedM and the competitors on it, have been explored in order to establish an online presence that distinguishes Northstar Roleplay from other RedM servers. The project encompasses the development of a clean, visually appealing website designed to present key server features, rules, professions, and the underlying vision, making it the main resource to attract potential new players. Additionally, a comprehensive tutorial video was produced to streamline the onboarding process, offering clear, step-by-step guidance and a personal introduction to the server. An automatic whitelist system was also conceptualized to ensure that new players read and understand the server rules before joining; however, technical challenges prevented its full implementation. Still, the website and video tutorial lay the foundation for the professional online presence of Northstar Roleplay.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Knoblich2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Knoblich, Roger}, title = {F{\"u}hrt die Einf{\"u}hrung von Scrum in einem Unternehmen zu einer Steigerung der psychologischen Sicherheit bei den Mitarbeitenden? Inwieweit hat dies Effekte auf die affektive Bindung sowie die Mitarbeitendenzufriedenheit?}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Fr{\"u}here Studien, insbesondere die Metaanalyse von Frazier et al. (2017), zeigen, dass psychologische Sicherheit eine Schl{\"u}sselrolle f{\"u}r Arbeitszufriedenheit und organisationales Commitment spielt. Der Einfluss agiler Arbeitsweisen wurde in diesem Zusammenhang jedoch bisher kaum untersucht. Diese Studie widmet sich der Frage, wie agile Arbeitsweisen, insbesondere das Scrum-Rahmenwerk, die psychologische Sicherheit, das affektive Commitment und die Arbeitszufriedenheit beeinflussen. In einem mittelst{\"a}ndischen Unternehmen wurde eine Intervention im Rahmen einer Studie mit Pre-Posttest-Design (N = 37) durchgef{\"u}hrt. Eine Interventionsgruppe arbeitete nach dem Scrum-Rahmenwerk, einschließlich zweiw{\"o}chiger Sprints und agiler Events, w{\"a}hrend die Kontrollgruppe ohne agiles Rahmenwerk arbeitete. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass psychologische Sicherheit ein signifikanter Pr{\"a}diktor der Arbeitszufriedenheit und des Commitments war - jedoch nur im Pr{\"a}test. Agiles Projektmanagement erh{\"o}hte die psychologische Sicherheit nicht signifikant, was auf die moderierende Rolle von Stress und organisatorischen Rahmenbedingungen hinweisen k{\"o}nnte. Affektives Commitment erwies sich hingegen {\"u}ber beide Messzeitpunkte hinweg als stabiler Einflussfaktor auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit. Die vorliegende Arbeit liefert weitere Einblicke in die Bedeutung von psychologischer Sicherheit und Commitment in agilen Arbeitskontexten, betont jedoch, dass deren Entwicklung nicht automatisch durch agile Arbeitsweisen gef{\"o}rdert wird. Aufgrund methodischer Limitationen sollten die Ergebnisse differenziert betrachtet werden. Die Befunde bieten praktische Anhaltspunkte, dass erg{\"a}nzende Maßnahmen wie systemisches Stressmanagement zur Reduzierung von Stress auf organisationaler und individueller Ebene sowie Weiterbildungen f{\"u}r F{\"u}hrungskr{\"a}fte, die Vertrauen und Teamstabilit{\"a}t f{\"o}rdern, notwendig sind, um die potenziellen Vorteile agiler Methoden vollst{\"a}ndig zu auszusch{\"o}pfen.}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Galesloot2024, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Galesloot, Ben}, title = {Comparative Analysis of Dry and Wet Total Mixed Ration Uptake in Calves: A Study on Feed Intake, Growth, and Health Parameters}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {94}, year = {2024}, abstract = {This study investigates the effects of dry and wet Total Mixed Ration (TMR) restrictive feeding on the feed intake, growth, and health parameters of Holstein Friesian (Bostaurus) calves. Conducted on a commercial dairy farm in Bedburg-Hau, Germany, the research involved 40 calves divided into eight groups (n1, 2 = 14, n3, 4 = 6, and n5, 6, 7, 8 = 20) with dry TMR provided to odd-numbered groups and wet TMR to even-numberedgroups. The experiment monitored daily feed intake and health parameters from birth to at least six weeks of age for heifer calves from two groups and from birth to three weeks of age from further two groups, and from birth to four weeks for bull calves, alongside weekly assessments of growth progression. T-test results did not reveal significant differences among the examined parameters when various groups were compared head-to-head. However, observable differences were noted, specifically in the amount of feed intake during the first few weeks, where calves fed dry TMR showed increased feed intake. Additionally, calves fed dry TMR exhibited less susceptibility to digestive disorders and a subsequent need for clinical treatment. Regarding sustainability, dry TMR showed advantages in ease of handling and storage, reducing time investment and feed waste. Wet TMR showed advantages in palatability and feed intake nearing the 5-week mark of the calves' age. However, wet TMR posed challenges, in terms of time required for its preparation. These findings provide insights into optimizing calf nutrition, promoting sustainable dairy farming practices, and addressing the challenges of different feed alternatives.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{BarbosaRimoli2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Barbosa Rimoli, Marcele}, title = {A WOMAN'S PLACE - ANALYSES OF FEMALE LITERATURE}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Unleashed Minds: A Woman's Place on Her Own Narrative is a design-driven exploration of how women writers have historically challenged societal expectations through literature. The project examines the works of Jane Austen, Virginia Woolf, Emily Bront{\"e}, and Sylvia Plath, among others, analyzing how their narratives subvert traditional roles and redefine themes of love, identity, and autonomy. Interwoven with contemporary reflections, interviews, and cultural references, the book bridges past and present, demonstrating the enduring relevance of these feminist perspectives. Beyond textual analysis, the project integrates visual storytelling as a critical tool for interpretation. The design of the book reinforces its themes through intentional typography pairings, a muted blue color scheme, and abstract imagery composition derived from historical paintings of women in positions of power, longing, or introspection. Black rectangles symbolize censorship, while scattered ink-like dots highlight both presence and absence—the stories told and those erased. Gradients subtly disrupt the running text, visually mirroring the fading and resurfacing of female voices over time. By combining literary scholarship with graphic design, Unleashed Minds is both an academic investigation and a tactile experience, reinterpreting feminist narratives through form and content. The project stands as a complete and cohesive work, emphasizing the power of design in reshaping and reclaiming women's place in storytelling.}, language = {en} } @misc{Syed2025, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Syed, Zaid Saleem}, title = {Development of an ML-based multivariate anomaly detection model for beehive monitoring using sensor and environmental data.}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Anomaly detection is an important aspect of beehive monitoring, enabling beekeepers to take timely action and preventing economic losses caused by the decline of the bee population. Most existing beehive monitoring systems lack machine learning (ML) capabilities for anomaly detection and rely on threshold-based methods or expensive, complex designs. This thesis utilized the DigiBee prototype, a cost- effective monitoring system, to develop an ML-based anomaly detection model using Isolation Forest. Data on temperature, humidity, sound, vibration, and weight from four active beehives was collected between May 1, 2024, and July 25, 2024, alongside environmental data—temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation—from nearby meteorological stations. Exploratory data analysis revealed several limitations: uniform outputs from vibration sensors, calibration errors in weight sensors, and multiple gaps during the data collection period. Correlation analysis indicated a limited influence of external weather variables on internal beehive conditions, while internal sensor parameters displayed stronger correlations with each other. Five models were developed, using either beehive data alone or a combination of beehive and weather data. Results showed that beehive-specific models achieved higher accuracy in detecting localized anomalies, whereas models combining data from multiple beehives generalized better but underrepresented hive-specific issues. Models incorporating weather parameters, especially precipitation, introduced noise and unnecessary dimensions, which, when excluded, improved the model's prediction by focusing on hive-specific patterns and ensuring anomaly detection remained contextually relevant.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Biffo2025, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Biffo, Fabio}, title = {Laser Modification of Thin Polymer Coatings}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21410}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {71}, year = {2025}, abstract = {Traditional manufacturing techniques are well-established for processing polyimides, such as Kapton®. This thesis presents a novel approach to producing polyimide and graphite using low-cost, commercially available equipment. Employing a 450 nm laser to both imidize and pyrolyze a polyamide precursor enables the flexibility of on-site manufacturing, even at a microscale, without relying on conventional fabrication techniques. The proposed method offers significant advantages, including cost and time efficiency, design flexibility, and biocompatibility, paving the way for innovative micromechanical and biomedical sensing applications. Moreover, this technique would enable the integration of fully additive manufacturing methods for Kapton® production, which currently relies primarily on subtractive manufacturing technologies. The thesis outlines the fabrication process, highlights optimal laser settings, and demonstrates the practicality of this technique by developing a water detector sensor manufactured entirely from the precursor liquid using the described method.}, language = {en} } @misc{Bhattarai, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Bhattarai, Anish}, title = {Digitizing the Bait Lamina Method: Facilitating Autonomous Learning and Data Processing in Ecological Research}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, abstract = {In recent years, digital tools in soil science have evolved to modernize and streamline traditional approaches by fostering greater learning engagement and enhancing accessibility. The primary goal of this research is to create an application that intends to facilitate autonomous learning while streamlining data processing, visualization, and reporting for the Bait Lamina Method (BLM). Advanced technologies such as React.js, Tailwind CSS, Vite.js, and several Node.js modules were used to implement essential functionalities. Moreover, to ensure smooth and scalable app delivery, Docker was employed. Furthermore, thorough usability testing was carried out with students from both the school and university to create a sturdy app that satisfies the needs and standards of users. This research utilized a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the app's overall usability, emphasizing efficiency, learnability, dependability, and overall satisfaction. Quantitative analysis included phi coefficient correlation, chi-square testing, and multiple ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to measure overall usability and user satisfaction. Meanwhile, qualitative approaches such as theme and sentiment analysis were used to get insight into user experiences, preferences, difficulties, and ideas for improvement. The study demonstrated that understanding the method is a key driver influencing student satisfaction. Therefore, the Bait Lamina App (BLA) immensely facilitated autonomous learning while speeding up data processing, visualization, and administration for the BLM. However, a few small faults and student comments were integrated into the BLA, which improved its use and satisfaction.}, language = {en} } @misc{OPUS4-2137, title = {02/2025 Zugangspr{\"u}fungsordnung f{\"u}r Bildungsausl{\"a}nderinnen und -ausl{\"a}nder f{\"u}r den Studiengang International Business Administration an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 08.11.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {02}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21374}, pages = {6}, language = {de} } @misc{OPUS4-2130, title = {01/2025 Dritte {\"A}nderungssatzung zur Fakult{\"a}tsordnung der Fakult{\"a}t Gesellschaft und {\"O}konomie der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 22.10.2024}, volume = {2025}, number = {01}, organization = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21309}, pages = {3}, language = {de} } @masterthesis{Schink, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Schink, Lukas}, title = {Pepper: Der halbautonome, humanoide Service-Roboter}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, abstract = {Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht die Integration großer Sprachmodelle in die Steuerung humanoider Roboter, am Beispiel der Anbindung von ChatGPT an den Service-Roboter Pepper. Motivation der Arbeit ist die Frage, wie moderne Sprachmodelle die Interaktionsf{\"a}higkeit {\"a}lterer Roboterplattformen verbessern k{\"o}nnen, sodass Roboter wie Pepper trotz ihres Alters und begrenzter physischer F{\"a}higkeiten in sozialen und bildungsbezogenen Anwendungen relevant bleiben. Ziel der Forschung ist es, Peppers Kommunikations- und Interaktionsm{\"o}glichkeiten durch die Kombination seiner bestehenden und m{\"o}glichen Funktionen mit den Sprachverarbeitungsf{\"a}higkeiten von ChatGPT zu erweitern. Hierzu wurde ein System entwickelt, das kontextbasierte Codes (Actioncodes) verwendet, die es dem Sprachmodell erm{\"o}glichen, Peppers Verhalten dynamisch zu steuern und flexibel auf Situationen zu reagieren. Dazu geh{\"o}rt die technische Anbindung von ChatGPT an die QiSDK, die Implementierung spezifischer Actioncodes sowie die Definition einer Pers{\"o}nlichkeit und kontextuellen Wissensbasis f{\"u}r den Roboter. Das System wurde auf Basis vorangegangener Feldversuche im Labor getestet und evaluiert. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Integration von ChatGPT Peppers Interaktionsf{\"a}higkeit signifikant verbessert, indem die Kommunikation nat{\"u}rlicher und die Reaktionen des Roboters flexibler werden. Diese Arbeit demonstriert, wie moderne Sprachmodelle dazu beitragen k{\"o}nnen, {\"a}ltere Robotersysteme zu modernisieren und ihre Einsatzm{\"o}glichkeiten erheblich zu erweitern.}, language = {de} } @misc{Mandal, type = {Master Thesis}, author = {Mandal, Prashant}, title = {Comparative Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) Of Tomato Production in Spain and Northern Germany}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, abstract = {The environmental impact of year-round greenhouse vegetable production, particularly in high latitude region such as the Emsland district in Lower Saxony, Germany, has raised concerns. It has latitude 52,362324 and longitude 7,269548 with temperature from 10°C to 25 in summer and temperature ranges from -1°C to 7°C in winter. In this context, two gardens with different climatic conditions, represented by the gardeners DE from Germany and ES from Spain, were considered. The latter is located at latitude 41,39467 and longitude 2,157998, with summer temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C and winter temperatures from 10 to 15°C. Greenhouse vegetable production requires significant energy inputs for heating and lighting, particularly during the winter months. However, the environmental implications of using renewable energy sources like hydroelectricity and the effects of other production strategies on the environment have not been adequately investigated. To address this knowledge gap, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of greenhouse tomato production for year-round production in 2022 has been conducted, including processes from seedling planting in a pre-build greenhouse structure to distribution at two locations: the ES Gardner in Spain and the DE Gardner in Germany. The study used the OpenLCA software and followed the ReCipe 2016 Mid-Point (H) impact assessment methodology. Our analysis revealed that, across the two main production seasons, the highest global warming potential (GW) was observed during year-round production in Spain. The following aspects were discovered to have a significant influence on the environmental impact: Packaging material, transportation, heating systems, electricity, land usage, and irrigation methods. Overall, it was determined that year-round production in Germany had the least detrimental environmental impact among the examined production types. The use of packaging material, electricity for heating the greenhouse and transportation was the primary contributor to most of the impact categories. Conversely, the application of fertilizers and manures during extended seasonal and year-round production had a lower environmental impact.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Ratnayake, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Ratnayake, Hasiru}, title = {A Systematic Review of Rapamycin- Mediated Fetal Hemoglobin Induction via the mTOR Pathway}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21155}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {55}, abstract = {mTOR inhibitor rapamycin has been observed to induce fetal hemoglobin in patients of β-hemoglobinopathies, a group of disorders in which mutations in the gene responsible β-globin chains results in reduced or malformed RBC production, leading to anemia. The induction of fetal hemoglobin bypasses these mutations, as they are found on the gene responsible for adult hemoglobin. Following birth, the fetal hemoglobin gene is silenced, and the adult gene is activated through a process known as the hemoglobin switch. Rapamycin treatment reverses this hemoglobin switch but the mechanism by which it does so is currently unknown. Rapamycin functions through its inhibition of mTORC1, a protein complex responsible for nutrient- and growth factor-dependent cell growth and proliferation. This literature review seeks to collate existing information on the mTORC1 signalling pathway and the hemoglobin switch, allowing for a specific mechanism by which rapamycin induces fetal hemoglobin through its inhibition of mTORC1 to be hypothesized. Following the literature search, 55 studies on the mTORC1 pathway and 31 studies on the hemoglobin switch were summarized. Using the information gained from this, three hypotheses were put forward for the possible induction mechanism, out of which the primary hypothesis is based on the hemoglobin switching factor KLF1. This was based on the observation that the knockdown of Raptor, a crucial component of mTORC1, in mice caused a decreased expression of KLF1. As KLF1 is an essential component of the hemoglobin switch, this provides a direct link between the inhibition of mTORC1 and the reversal of the hemoglobin switch. Additionally, the efficiency of rapamycin in comparison to other methods of fetal hemoglobin was discussed, including newer generations of mTOR inhibitors developed using rapamycin as a foundation. Finally, possible avenues of research to confirm the validity of the proposed hypotheses and to address points of ignorance within each topic were discussed.}, language = {en} } @masterthesis{Trauernicht, type = {Bachelor Thesis}, author = {Trauernicht, Anne}, title = {Entwicklung von Handlungsans{\"a}tzen einer adressatenorientierten F{\"o}rderung der psychischen Gesundheit jugendlicher Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler in Ganztagsschulen}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21120}, school = {Hochschule Rhein-Waal}, pages = {76}, abstract = {Nicht nur die Covid-19-Pandemie wirkte auf die allgemeine Verschlechterung der psychischen Gesundheit von Jugendlichen in Deutschland. Das Erleben vielseitiger Entwicklungen in der Jugendzeit machen diese Lebensphase zu einer psychisch vulnerablen Zeit. Gleichzeitig haben Schulen einen großen Einfluss auf das Leben der Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler und bilden f{\"u}r die psychische Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung einen zentralen Wirkungsort. Besonders Ganztagsschulen zeichnen sich durch erweiterte Betreuungszeiten und Ressourcen aus. W{\"u}nsche und Interessen der Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler werden sowohl in der Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung als auch in der Ganztagsschule selten erhoben und einbezogen (vgl. BMFSFJ, 2017). Die vorliegende Arbeit geht der Frage nach, welche adressatenorientierten Handlungsans{\"a}tze aus der aktuellen Forschungslage zur F{\"o}rderung der psychischen Gesundheit im Setting Schule f{\"u}r jugendliche Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler an Ganztagsschulen abgeleitet werden k{\"o}nnen. Ziel ist die Ableitung adressatenorientierter, auf Ganztagsschulen ausgerichteter Handlungsans{\"a}tze. Zur Beantwortung der Forschungsfrage wurde mithilfe einer systematischen Literaturrecherche der aktuelle Forschungsstand der psychischen Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung im Setting Schule erhoben. Auf Grundlage der analysierten Ergebnisse wurden adressatenorientierte Handlungsans{\"a}tze diskutiert. Die Ergebnisse zeigen den Bedarf der Edukation von Lehrkr{\"a}ften in der Fr{\"u}herkennung psychischer Krankheiten, die zusammen mit ganztagsschulischen Unterst{\"u}tzungsnetzwerken das Potenzial tragen, Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler fr{\"u}hzeitig zu unterst{\"u}tzen. Des Weiteren hebt sich unter Orientierung am Adressaten die Dringlichkeit einer geschlechtersensibleren psychischen Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung ab. Des Weiteren werden fehlende entwicklungsorientierte und partizipative Formen der psychischen Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung festgestellt. Ganztagsschulen, die sich als Teil der Lebenswelt ihrer Sch{\"u}lerinnen und Sch{\"u}ler verstehen, k{\"o}nnen schulische und psychische Faktoren st{\"a}rken. Die erarbeiteten Handlungsans{\"a}tze heben Diskrepanzen und Dringlichkeiten hervor und erg{\"a}nzen die bestehende psychische Gesundheitsf{\"o}rderung um eine jugendorientierte Perspektive.}, language = {de} }