TY - THES A1 - Malani, Ajaykumar T1 - Development of a Key Performance Indicator Based Method for the Evaluation of Scan Strategies N2 - In the Laser powder bed fusion of metal, the laser beam melts and fuse the powder material to produce the part layer by layer. The scan strategy, which defines the pattern in which the laser moves on the powder bed, affects the mechanical properties, residual stress and quality of the parts. There are many scanning strategies and it is difficult to select the appropriate scanning strategy based on the required quality of the parts. In this thesis, key performance indicators related to scanning strategy are developed, based upon the literature, which can influence the quality of the parts like high density and low surface roughness. The developed KPI is used to evaluate the scanning strategy of printed parts and their results on surface roughness and density. The developed KPIs are integrated into custom software to collect the data for evaluation of scanning strategy. The correlation analysis is also performed to understand the relation between developed KPI and quality of the parts (surface roughness and density). The results shows that developed method can be used for evaluation of the scanning strategy but it needs to be further improved to get more accurate results. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22414 ER - TY - THES A1 - Siddireddy, Pradeep Chand T1 - Energy-Efficient Design of Filament Spooling Machines for Sustainable 3D Printing Workflows. N2 - The Thesis encompasses a comprehensive design framework, incorporating detailed calculations for motor selection, tensioning system design, and guide mechanism optimization. The design prioritizes energy efficiency through the implementation of high-efficiency motors, optimized control algorithms, and energy-saving features. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22408 ER - TY - THES A1 - Heidenreich, Kathrin Lilli T1 - Assessing National Resilience to Hybrid Threats: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of European Countries N2 - Hybrid threats pose a growing challenge to European security, targeting state vulnerabilities through combined military and non-military means. Resilience has become the key strategy to counter these threats, yet little empirical research explains why some countries are more resilient than others. This thesis uses Qualitative Comparative Analysis on 36 European countries to identify which conditions lead to national resilience. Findings show that resilience results from specific combinations of factors: strategic prioritization of hybrid threats, prior exposure to attacks, EU and NATO membership, and the absence of Soviet-era legacies. The study recommends states develop clear strategies, institutionalize learning from past incidents, and strengthen multilateral cooperation. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Ghosh, Anup Kumar T1 - Analyzing individual chickens' life data to predict egg and growth performance N2 - The 2022 ban on killing male chicks, implemented in Germany and France, tackled ethical problems within egg-laying hen farming. Because of this policy, alternative poultry production methods were created to better meet animal welfare guidelines. To meet this challenge, the University of Bonn launched research into dual-purpose chickens, specifically the British Ixworth breed. Integrating male and female chicken farming offers a new, innovative solution to ethical and sustainability issues in traditional farming by combining egg and meat production. The importance of this research for revolutionizing poultry farming cannot be overstated (Becker et al., 2023). A University of Bonn research team is studying this alternative farming method to determine its productivity and viability. To meet industry needs while prioritizing animal welfare, they evaluate dual-purpose chicken potential by analysing egg (number and weight) and meat (weight) yields. This thesis has four sections, exploring different facets of dual-purpose chickens across four generations via diverse statistical and machine learning methods. First, it examines existing research on various facets of analysing and forecasting individual chicken egg and growth data. It further explores Becker et al.’s 2023 study, “The British Ixworth: individual growth and egg production of a purebred dual-purpose chicken.” Moreover, the linear regression, SVR, KNN, and decision tree models were applied to this data for advanced analysis and prediction. The thesis’s second part details the methodology, including requirements analysis and dataset preparation. This thesis's third section details how data from four generations of chicken life were analysed to predict future egg production and individual chicken growth. Across generations, individual chickens' average body weight and egg weight all showed an increase in the results. Predictions from linear regression and decision tree models show an increase in individual chickens' growth across generations to come. Egg production forecasts were better with the KNN model. This research will use advanced statistical methods and machine learning to model and assess the generational performance of dual-purpose chickens. These tools will forecast future egg and meat production, thus giving key insights to enhance breeding programs. This research aims to optimize dual-purpose chicken production for growth and egg-laying performance. The researchers eagerly anticipate the results, which will help to shape their future poultry farming projects. KW - Dual-purpose chickens KW - British Ixworth KW - Poultry farming KW - Machine learning KW - Statistical analysis KW - Predictive modeling KW - Linear regression KW - K-nearest neighbors (KNN) KW - Support Vector KW - Regression (SVR) KW - Decision tree KW - Sustainable agriculture KW - Generational analysis KW - Chicken growth prediction KW - Egg-laying performance KW - Alternative poultry production Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Thissen, Erik T1 - Entwicklung eines prototypischen Tools zur Automatisierung der Erstellung von Linked Open Data aus Open Data Datensätzen N2 - Linked Data has become an increasingly important publication format for structured information. This thesis explores the extent to which the conversion of Open Data into Linked Open Data can be automated and identifies the main challenges and sources of error. The creation of a prototypical tool was used to gain insights into these challenges and sources of error during the conversion to Linked Data. These were then analyzed and solutions to these problems created. The resulting tool was evaluated with different Open Data datasets. The results show that it is able to partially automate the process of converting Open Data to Linked Open Data and that it succeeded in eliminating key barriers, like the necessary programming skills, currently needed to create Linked Data. This prototype contributes towards decreasing the barrier of entry to create Linked Data and indicates that further research could lead towards the fully automatic conversion to RDF. KW - Linked Data KW - Open Data KW - Automation KW - Data Processing KW - RDF Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Olgun, Ismail T1 - Standardisierung der REST-Services in der IT-Landschaft des BLB NRW N2 - Standardisierung der REST-Services in der IT-Landschaft des BLB NRW Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Rademacher, Jens T1 - Evaluierung eines Onboarding-Konzepts im Rettungsdienst mit Handlungskonzeptempfehlung N2 - Der Rettungsdienst in Deutschland steht angesichts steigender Einsatzzahlen, des demographischen Wandels und veränderter Erwartungen an Arbeitgeber:innen vor der zunehmenden Herausforderung ausreichend Fachkräfte zu gewinnen und zu halten. Vor diesem Hintergrund gewinnt Personalmarketing zunehmend an Bedeutung. Der Erstkontakt im Rahmen des Onboardings ist ein entscheidender Faktor, um Integration, Zufriedenheit und langfristige Mitarbeiterbindung zu sichern. Im Rahmen dieser Bachelorarbeit wurde beim Deutschen Roten Kreuz - Kreisverband Neuss e.V. (DRK-Neuss), ein neues Onboarding-Konzept für angehende Rettungssanitäter:innen entwickelt und im Ausbildungszeitraum August bis September 2024 mit 17 neuen Mitarbeitenden erprobt. Ziel war es, das Konzept mithilfe qualitativer Interviews nach Mayring zu evaluieren und Handlungsempfehlungen für eine systematische Einarbeitung im Rettungsdienst abzuleiten. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass insbesondere fehlende Standardisierung, inkonsistente Kommunikation und uneinheitliche Betreuung Schwächen im bisherigen Prozess darstellen. Gleichzeitig wurden positive Ansätze wie die Einführung eines Begrüßungstages und die individuelle Betreuung hervorgehoben. Die Arbeit leitet konkrete Empfehlungen ab, u. a. zur Einführung eines Paten-Systems, strukturierte Checklisten sowie klare Verantwortlichkeiten im Einarbeitungsprozess. Ein durchdachtes Onboarding ist essenziell, um neue Mitarbeitende effektiv einzugliedern und den Rettungsdienst des DRK-Neuss zukunftssicher im Personalbereich aufzustellen. KW - Onboarding KW - Rettungsdienst KW - Evaluation KW - Qualitative Inhaltsanalyse KW - Handlungsempfehlung Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Hadi, Abdul T1 - Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Capital Market Efficiency and Investment Behavior: A Comparative Analysis of Investors in Developed and Emerging Markets N2 - This thesis explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on capital market efficiency and investor behavior, with a comparative lens on developed and emerging markets. It investigates how AI technologies—such as machine learning, robo-advisors, and algorithmic trading—are reshaping investment strategies, reducing behavioral biases, and influencing market dynamics. The study integrates theoretical frameworks, including the Efficient Market Hypothesis, Behavioral Finance, and the Adaptive Markets Hypothesis, to contextualize AI’s role in modern finance. A mixed-methods approach combines literature review, empirical analysis, and survey data from Germany, India, and Pakistan to assess regional disparities in AI adoption, trust, and effectiveness. Findings reveal that while AI enhances decision-making and market efficiency, its benefits are unevenly distributed due to infrastructural, regulatory, and digital literacy gaps. German investors exhibit higher trust and adoption rates, leading to more efficient and diversified investment behavior, whereas emerging markets face barriers such as limited access and awareness. The thesis concludes with policy recommendations to foster inclusive AI integration and outlines future research directions to bridge the digital divide in global financial systems Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22350 ER - TY - THES A1 - Bhatt, Revant Nitin T1 - Characterization and Optimization of Process Parameters for Polycaprolactone-based Medical Scaffolds for a Magnetic Planar Drive-based 3D Printer N2 - This thesis investigates the optimization of process parameters for a Magnetic Planar Drive (MPD)-based 3D printer to fabricate Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds for medical applications. The study aims to identify an optimal set of parameters that ensures high-dimensional accuracy while maintaining structural integrity. A systematic experimental methodology was adopted, beginning with a full-factorial design to establish baseline parameters for printing temperature (170°C), printing speed (15 mm/s), and nozzle diameter (0.4 mm). A Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was employed to optimize critical parameters, specifically layer height, raster width, and mover levitation height. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) identified layer height as the most dominant factor influencing dimensional accuracy (p < 0.0001), while raster width and mover levitation had lesser effects. The experimental validation of the optimization results revealed discrepancies between the numerically and empirically optimized parameter sets. Although the numerically optimized settings had a theoretically superior accuracy of 98.29%, their practical implementation led to structural failures, specifically the collapse of scaffold bridges. In contrast, the empirically optimized set (layer height: 0.2 mm, raster width: 0.45 mm, mover levitation height: 2.25 mm) consistently achieved a mean dimensional accuracy of 97.14% while maintaining stable printability. The findings demonstrate the potential of MPD-based 3D printing for fabricating medical scaffolds and establishing a validated parameter set. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22330 ER - TY - THES A1 - Müller, Anna T1 - The Dialectic of Enlightenment & Gender Equality : Potentials of Critical Theory for the Re- and Deconstruction of Women's Roles in a Patriarchal Society N2 - This thesis examines the ambivalent nature of a supposedly enlightened society using the tools of Critical Theory. The work employs the dialectical method, drawing on Horkheimer and Adorno’s 'Dialectic of Enlightenment' to analyze the contradictory development of gender relations within a seemingly rational and emancipated modernity. The central thesis posits that the ideals of the Enlightenment—devoted to liberty, reason, and equality—dialectically reverse into their opposites. The focus lies on the social role of women, who experience societal subjugation as a result. Through a historical analysis of Early, High, and Late Enlightenment, two structural concepts are identified that emerge from Enlightenment thought: (1) the categorically dichotomized production of knowledge, and the (2) transition from monarchical to physiocratic bourgeois systems. It is shown how a complementarity of the sexes is legitimized on the basis of categorial-dichotomized knowledge production, which is divided into dichotomized social spheres in the sense of an equal society on the basis of their supposedly natural abilities. This creates a dialectical moment that places women in a seemingly natural, but actually ideologically shaped position of subjugation. The third part of the thesis applies Negative Dialectics to deconstruct prevailing gender relations. It questions the foundations of dichotomous knowledge production and explores the compatibility of feminist theories with Critical Theory. Furthermore, it critically engages with identity politics. The aim is to rethink the concept of “woman” from a dialectical-feminist perspective and to outline possibilities for a more equitable societal order beyond rigid categorical designations. KW - Critical Theory KW - Dialectic of Enlightenment KW - Intersectionality KW - Negative Dialectics Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22319 ER - TY - THES A1 - Moncada Torres, Valentina Bernardita T1 - Identifying Policy Opportunities for the Costa Rican Cocoa Market: A Comparative Analysis with the Dominican Republic N2 - Cocoa is a crop native to Costa Rica that once thrived as one of the country’s principal exports. Its decline began in the late 1970s following severe disease outbreaks and has been further affected by a lack of sustained institutional support. This thesis presents a comparative analysis of the cocoa sectors in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic due to the latter’s good positioning in the global cocoa market. It aims to identify policy opportunities that could support the revitalization of Costa Rican cocoa production. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders across both countries and thematically analysed according to six key areas: general characteristics, exports and market access, labour conditions, public policy and framework, support framework, and growth potential. Findings suggest that the Dominican Republic’s success is due to continued governmental prioritization and support, alongside the presence of strong producer associations that facilitate access to post-harvest infrastructure, international markets, and organic certification. In contrast, Costa Rica’s sector remains fragmented, with limited coordination, restricted market access, and minimal governmental support. Nonetheless, recent increases in global cocoa prices and renewed institutional interest have created favourable conditions for reactivating and strengthening the sector. This study highlights the need for strengthened producer organization and culturally grounded support for Indigenous cocoa producers. The broader aim of the study is to enable producers to improve their quality of life through increased profitability. KW - Cocoa production KW - Costa Rica KW - Dominican Republic KW - Comparative study KW - Agricultural Policy KW - Market Access KW - Producer Support Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22308 ER - TY - THES A1 - Malani, Ajaykumar Jayasukhbhai T1 - Development of a Key Performance Indicator Based Method for the Evaluation of Scan Strategies N2 - In the Laser powder bed fusion of metal, the laser beam melts and fuse the powder material to produce the part layer by layer. The scan strategy, which defines the pattern in which the laser moves on the powder bed, affects the mechanical properties, residual stress and quality of the parts. There are many scanning strategies and it is difficult to select the appropriate scanning strategy based on the required quality of the parts. In this thesis, key performance indicators related to scanning strategy are developed, based upon the literature, which can influence the quality of the parts like high density and low surface roughness. The developed KPI is used to evaluate the scanning strategy of printed parts and their results on surface roughness and density. The developed KPIs are integrated into custom software to collect the data for evaluation of scanning strategy. The correlation analysis is also performed to understand the relation between developed KPI and quality of the parts (surface roughness and density). The results shows that developed method can be used for evaluation of the scanning strategy but it needs to be further improved to get more accurate results. KW - Additive manufacturing KW - Laser Powder Bed Fusion process KW - LPBF KW - Scanning strategy KW - Effect of scanning strategy KW - Scan vector length KW - Overlap KW - Scan vector direction KW - KPI Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22293 ER - TY - THES A1 - Stolbova, Kristina T1 - What is the impact of the level of democracy on voter turnout among youth? N2 - In the last decades, two disturbing trends have been developing simultaneously: a declining state of democracy worldwide and a growing electoral disengagement of youth (18-24 years old). The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between the level of democracy and youth voter turnout. Gathering secondary data from publicly available data sets and reports (the CSES, Afrobarometer, and the Economist Intelligence Unit), I conduct six correlation analyses between the level of democracy (and its components) and voter turnout among youth. As a result, I find a significant positive association between the level of democracy and youth turnout. Among the components of democracy, functioning of government demonstrates the most significant positive correlation with electoral participation among youth. I conclude that autocratisation could serve as an explanans of youth growing abstention from voting. At the same time, this suggests a potential for the level of democracy to boost the electoral behaviour of youth by influencing the functioning of government. While further research is needed to establish the causal relationship, this study lays a relevant foundation for it. KW - Youth voter turnout KW - Level of democracy KW - Correlation analysis Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Nguyen, Minh Duy T1 - Development of an arduino-controlled smart storage rack for component reels using MQTT and RS485 communication protocols N2 - This thesis represents the development of an innovative storage rack system designed to manage electronic component reels in the manufacturing environment efficiently. The system integrates multiple custom-designed PCBs equipped with many LEDs and sensors, each assigned to individual storage slots. Each storage slot is equipped with an LED and an infrared (IR) sensor. The sensors detect the presence of reels, while the LEDs provide visual guidance for storing or locating specific reels. To manage multiple sensors efficiently, a multiplexing method is used, allowing each Arduino Pro Mini to control up to 16 sensors with fewer pins. Multiple Arduino Pro Mini microcontrollers are deployed across different rack sections and communicate with a central master controller using the RS485 protocol. The master controller, based on an ESP32, connects to an MQTT broker to send and receive data from a storage management system. Users interact with the system through a web interface. When storing a reel, the user scans it into the online system, which then activates an LED to indicate the appropriate storage slot. When retrieving a reel, the system highlights its location via the corresponding LED. Sensors are used to confirm the presence or absence of reels within the slots ensuring accurate tracking of stored items in real time. The system is modular and scalable. In this thesis, the prototype demonstrates two levels of storage racks, each independently controlled and networked, validating the communication between multiple slave units and a master. Additionally, because of the different sizes of the reel, the design includes removable metal dividers between slots. When storing larger reels, dividers can be removed, and this change is also updated via MQTT to the online system. Power is supplied through a 5V, 30A power supply, ensuring stable operation of all electronic components. Overall, the results confirm that the system achieves reliable performance in both hardware and communication aspects, offering a practical and scalable solution for modern electronic component inventory management. KW - Smart Storage Rack MQTT RS485 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22237 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Dobariya, Binal A1 - Bockmühl, Dirk P. T1 - Comparative analysis of microbial community on apricot kernel shells and walnut shells influenced by post-harvest conditions. N2 - Apricot kernel shells (AKS) and walnut shells (WS) are byproducts from fruit processing lines and may serve as sustainable alternatives to microplastics in industrial applications due to their high content of natural polymers such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Their use necessitates understanding the associated microbial risks to secure the quality of raw materials. This study investigates microbial communities on AKS and WS collected from Kyrgyzstan over a three-year period of harvests (2022-2024), using culture-dependent total viable count (TVC) as well as culture-independent shotgun metagenomic sequencing to explore the taxonomic and functional profile of microorganisms present on the shells. Results indicated higher microbial loads in more recent harvests with a dominance of Proteobacteria on WS comprising Pantonea agglomerans and Xanthomonas arboricola. On AKS, the phylum Firmicutes was prevalent emphasizing on Weissella confusa and Weissella cibaria. Incubation at humid conditions increased the fungal diversity in particular, especially Rhizopus microsporus in WS and Pichia membranifaciens in AKS, highlighting storage humidity as a critical factor which may induce microbial shifts. Functional metagenomic profiling based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway database, highlighted metabolic and relational pathways of microbial community present on AKS and WS. Furthermore, microbial similarities between shell samples and their respective storage environments suggest that handling and storage practices may significantly affect contamination profiles. KW - Walnut shells, Apricot kernel shells, Alternatives to microplastics, Cosmetics, Microbial communities Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22214 ER - TY - THES A1 - Regmi, Khem Raj T1 - Interactive Visualisation Tool for Teaching Environmental Data: A Guideline of how to set up the tool taking user feedback into account N2 - This thesis will study the creation of an interactive data visualization tool for environmental dataset that concentrates specifically on Nitrate concentrations in groundwater. This project is intended to create a tool for exploratory/experiential learning - one that allows learners to investigate regional data and pursue genuine learning opportunities. The plan is to use regional data in a specific user journey to create this interactive learning experience. The project uses open environmental data: Hygris dataset of LANUV(Landesamt für Natur, Umwelt und Verbraucherschutz) related to the regions Kleve and Wesel in Germany, and realizes this with help of python programming language and python streamlit framework, web development tools and data visualization libraries (pandas , plotly.express, streamlite.components.v1). This study explores tailored visualization strategies that address key challenges such as the inherent complexity of environmental datasets and the need for more engaging and comprehensible educational tools. These strategies include deploying interactive visualizations that allow hands-on data exploration, and temporal visualizations. The role of user feedback in refining educational tools for teaching environmental data is examined, particularly in designing effective visualization techniques like line char, bar chart, bubble chart, pie chart, scatter plot and intensity graph for representing groundwater nitrate concentrations. The impact of different visualization techniques on the understanding and interpretation of open environmental data among educators and students is analyzed, with an emphasis on the spatial distribution of groundwater nitrate concentrations over time. This approach aims to increase user engagement and deepen understanding of environmental data, facilitating a more profound embedding of information within learners' cognitive processes. KW - Interactive data visualization KW - Data representation KW - Environmental data KW - Nitrate concentration KW - Groundwater KW - Open data KW - User feedback KW - Education KW - Data accessibility KW - Data inclusivity KW - Educational tools KW - Digital teaching Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21594 ER - TY - THES A1 - Chng, Ci Ern Katelyn T1 - Effects of Sewage Sludge Biochar as a Growing Media Component and Phosphate Fertiliser on the Cultivation of Potted Ornamental Plants N2 - There is increasing pressure from the German government on its citizens to reduce dependency on phosphate rock and peat, in agriculture and horticulture. This is due to the phosphate rock oligopoly with associated political instabilities, and the environmental consequences of peat harvesting. Past studies on soilless crop cultivation have shown promising outcomes for the phosphorus (P)-rich sewage sludge biochar (SSB) as an answer to these issues. However, SSB remains as one of the least studied biochar types in soilless ornamental cultivation. The objectives of this study were to investigate the viability of SSB as a P fertiliser and growing media component in pot cultivation of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima). The addition of SSB at a 10% (v/v) rate to coco peat (SSB 10) was determined as the best composition. Although it did not outperform the control, SSB 10 plants were not significantly lower than the control plants in height, dry aboveground biomass, and number of poinsettia stems across all three species – except in poinsettia biomass. Other rates (5%, 15%, 20%) had significantly lower values in more than one parameter. Physicochemical characterisation also revealed increased P with increasing SSB rates in the growing media. Contrary to other studies, the pH of all growing media did not exceed ideal growing media pH values (5.3-6.5), further solidifying SSB’s viability as a growing media component. The reliability of our results could be improved by recording water uptake of the media, and selection of species with quantifiable aesthetics. KW - Biochar KW - P recovery KW - Sewage sludge KW - Pyrolysis KW - Ornamentals KW - Substrate KW - Growing media KW - Peat reduction Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22189 ER - TY - THES A1 - Rigotti, Roberta T1 - Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and climate change: Assessing the potential in German agriculture with insights from Italian practices N2 - Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) is a crop loved in the Mediterranean, particularly in Italy, where it has a long tradition holding both cultural and economic value. It has many different uses, from fresh consumption to medicinal use and potential in the energy and cheese-making industry. In northern European countries, such as Germany, artichoke cultivation has not been largely present up until now, mostly due to climate limitations, like very cold winters. However, climate change may offer new opportunities for its introduction. This study wants to assess the viability and potential of artichoke cultivation in Germany under current and future climate conditions, with the support of climate reports and literature sources. Past German trials, together with insights from the Italian artichoke cultivation, are integrated into the analysis to offer a better understanding of potential practices and implications for a future cultivation of the crop in Germany. The study concludes that winter cultivation is unfeasible without proper winter protection practices or the development of reliable frost-resistant varieties. However, annual cultivation with harvest within the same season represents a promising option in most German states. Locally grown artichokes could translate into economic and environmental advantages by answering the increasing interest in fresh, healthy, and regionally sourced products. It would also presents an opportunity for diversifying agricultural production in response to climate change and shifting market demands while also filling a gap in the artichoke offer on the market. KW - Artichoke KW - Cynara scolymus KW - Climate change KW - Climate adaptation KW - Agriculture in Germany KW - Agriculture in Italy KW - Crop cultivation KW - Cultivation potential KW - Sustainable agriculture KW - Carciofo KW - RCP Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22178 ER - TY - THES A1 - Yankouski, Matsvei T1 - Simulation of Satellite Flares and their Impact on Ground-Based Observations N2 - With a growing number of satellites on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) the problem of light pollution arises, which is caused by the light reflected from satellite modules and directed to the ground-based observatories. This phenomenon is called satellite “flares” or “glints”. The goal of this work is to create a physical simulation model, which can recreate the conditions when the satellite flare is visible. The model is made in Python and uses a simplified geometry of reflection, orbit, solar panel parameters, and real-time TLE data. With the developed model it is possible to evaluate a variety of scenarios: single satellite, constellation and global maps of flare distribution with the given parameters. The simulation model allows for analysing the distribution of flares of time and space and checking the effectiveness of technical and legal norms. In the flow of the work numerical simulations are performed, heat maps are created, analysis and comparison with real data are made. The obtained results demonstrate the potential of this model as an instrument for planning and scheduling observations, developing less bright satellites and creating policy measures to decrease light pollution of the night sky. The results of this thesis are fundamental for expanding the model and integrating real data of all satellites. KW - Satellite flares KW - Light pollution KW - Astronomical observations KW - Satellite simulation KW - Satellite constellation KW - Specular reflection KW - Python modelling KW - Observation impact. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22166 ER - TY - GEN A1 - Kudla, Matthias A1 - Tewes, Thomas A1 - Gibbin-Lameira, Emma A1 - Harcq, Laurence A1 - Bockmühl, Dirk T1 - Unlocking the Power of Short Cycles: Enhancing Hygiene in Domestic Dishwashers N2 - This study investigated how factors associated with Sinner’s principle—namely temperature, time and the chemical composition of detergents—affected the antimicrobial efficacy of domestic dishwashers, particularly during short cycles. We chose a range of bacterial strains, including standard test strains such as Micrococcus luteus and Enterococcus faecium, as well as important foodborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella Typhimurium. To account for the complexity of dishwasher cycles, we correlated hygiene efficacy with area under the curve (AUC) measurements derived from the respective cycle profiles. Our findings revealed that the reductions in M. luteus and E. faecium were minimally affected by the reference detergent. In contrast, a high-tier market detergent demonstrated a significant decrease in bacterial counts. Notably, both strains exhibited reduced efficacy at a main cycle temperature of 45 °C, suggesting that temperatures below 50 °C might represent a critical threshold at which the hygiene efficacy of domestic dishwashing processes declines. However, since food-related pathogens were more susceptible to the dishwashing process, even lower temperatures might deliver a sufficient level of hygiene. Plotting the logarithmic reduction/AUC ratio against the AUC indicated that the main cycle contributed approximately 10-fold more to microbial reduction than the rinse cycle. Furthermore, the antimicrobial impact of detergents was greatest at the lowest AUC values (i.e. during short cycles). Taken together, our results suggest that the main wash temperature, the type of detergent, and the specific strain tested all impact bacterial hygiene performance. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22153 ER - TY - THES A1 - Pogrebnyak, Anna T1 - Application of the Ant Colony Algorithm for solving routing optimization problem in logistics N2 - In logistics there are different options of how the Traveling Salesman Problem can be solved. For that purpose, the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) may be used. In the thesis, the method is implemented in order to solve the routing optimization problem. In that case, the mathematical application is observed and analyzed. ACO parameters that affecting the working principles were researched in the thesis with the corresponding graphical representation. Based on the theoretical logic the Java language program is written for the purpose of realizing the ACO algorithm. In order to grade the effectiveness of the obtained results the additional model the Greedy method was applied. The developed program tool demonstrates the practical applications and a solution of the routing problem based on the real data in Wesel region. The thesis is focused on the route length optimization and cost reduction in terms of ACO implementation. KW - Ant Colony Optimization KW - Traveling Salesman Problem KW - Routing problem KW - Cost reduction KW - Route length optimization KW - Java software program Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22135 ER - TY - THES A1 - Torabizadeh, Mohammad T1 - Evaluating Tool Support for User-Centric Requirements Engineering in Software Development: A Jira-Based Approach N2 - User requirements are important for a successful software development process, yet their effective integration throughout the development lifecycle remains challenging. This study evaluates requirements engineering (RE) tools and addresses the gap in the requirements engineering process and the systematic integration of user requirements into development processes. After literature review and expert evaluations, a framework was established for the evaluation of RE tools across key dimensions. This evaluation revealed significant limitations in requirements management and analysis capabilities. A Jira-based prototype was developed using Atlassian Forge, consisting of an Issue Panel for requirement-to-issue linkage and a Global Page for the rest of the requirement engineering process, with its main goal being to integrate user requirements in the software development lifecycle. Testing with 16 participants proved high satisfaction (mean of 4.382/5) and effectiveness in integrating requirements into development workflows (mean of 4.438/5). The study also provides areas for future improvements, useful for the future work to be done in the field. KW - Usability engineering KW - Requirement engineering KW - Jira KW - User requirements Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - RPRT T1 - One Mission. Mission Statement (Version 1) N2 - Das Mission Statement der Arbeitsgruppe 04, „One Mission“, zum Hochschulentwicklungsplan (HEP) 2026–2030 der Hochschule Rhein-Waal leistet dreierlei: Erstens erfolgt eine Definition der „One Mission“ als Interpretation der Einheit von Studium, Lehre, Forschung und Transfer, dadurch versteht sich „One Mission“ auch als Beitrag zum Humboldt'schen Bildungsideal. Zweitens wird die Vision für die angestrebte Zielerreichung im Jahr 2030 beschrieben, wobei die „One-Mission“-Profilierung in Kombination mit weiteren identitären Eckpfeilern der Hochschule (Regionalität und Internationalität, Diversität und Nachhaltigkeitstransformation) als Alleinstellungsmerkmale projektiert wird. Drittens werden Gelingensbedingungen für „One-Mission“-Vorhaben in verschiedenen Skalierungen (vom Ad-hoc-Projekt bis zum transdisziplinären Studiengang) und Statusgruppen (Studierende, Lehrende, Forschende, Mitarbeitende) vorgeschlagen. Die fortlaufende Ergänzung und kontinuierliche Infragestellung der Inhalte, insbesondere der Gelingensbedingungen, ist dabei als work in progress ausdrücklich gewünscht. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22108 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 14/2025 Vierte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Economics and Finance der Fakultät Gesellschaft und Ökonomie vom 24.03.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-14 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-22119 VL - 2025 IS - 14 ER - TY - THES A1 - de Carvalho, Ben T1 - Assessment of Emissions from Pig Transportation using the GLEC-Framework N2 - 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. KW - GLEC KW - Emissions KW - Emission calculation KW - Animal transport emissions KW - Carbon footprint Y1 - 2024 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kapinos, Noah Joel T1 - The impact of Social Media Advertisements on the Buying Behavior of Gen Z N2 - 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. KW - Social Media KW - Generation Z KW - Buying Behavior KW - Consumer Trends KW - Social Media Advertising Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21949 ER - TY - THES A1 - Besliu, Stas T1 - Emulsion splitting by applying CO2 and pressure N2 - 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. KW - Emulsion splitting KW - oil-in-water emulsion KW - flotation KW - oil recovery. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21931 ER - TY - THES A1 - Sund, Louiza T1 - The potential of direct marketing within the transformation process to sustainable farming in Lower Saxony, Germany N2 - 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 Ökolandbau 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. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21921 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 13/2025 Zweite Änderungssatzung zur Zugangsordnung für die Masterstudiengänge Mechanical Engineering und Bionics der Fakultät Technologie und Bionik an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 08.01.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-13 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21901 VL - 2025 IS - 13 ER - TY - THES A1 - Tayebi Jazayeri, Seyed Omid A1 - Abou Dargham, Karim T1 - The Impact of Corporate Taxation on Social Inequality: A Case Study of selected OECD Countries N2 - 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. KW - Corporate tax rates KW - Social inequality KW - Gini-coeffcient KW - Income inequality KW - Wealth inequality KW - Profit-shifting KW - Effective tax rates KW - Statutory tax rates KW - OECD Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21875 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 12/2025 Gebührenordnung der Bibliothek der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 30.01.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-12 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21854 VL - 2025 IS - 12 ER - TY - THES A1 - Muthyapaga, Sujit Kumar T1 - Enhancing Plastic Degradation in Anaerobic Environments Using Biodigesters and qualitative quantitative analysis of biogas. N2 - 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. KW - PLA KW - PBAT KW - GF 106 KW - Ecovio KW - Plastic degradation KW - Anaerobic digestion KW - Biodigesters KW - SEM KW - FTIR analysis KW - Composting KW - Blown film. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Dierkes, Annika Marie T1 - Über Kochbox Prototypen für eine gesündere und nachhaltigere Lebensmittelauswahl im Supermarkt Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Helou, Ziad T1 - Opportunities and challenges for the solar industry in Lebanon. N2 - 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. KW - Solar energy KW - Renewable energy KW - Capacity factor KW - Grid modernization KW - Energy policy KW - Lebanon energy crisis KW - Solar photovoltaics KW - Energy transition KW - Distributed energy systems KW - Solar market regulation KW - Energy storage KW - Microgrid integration KW - Power grid stability KW - Reverse current flow KW - Islanding effect KW - Net metering KW - Sustainable development KW - Public-private partnerships KW - Solar waste management KW - Energy infrastructure Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Gumiel Silva, Karen T1 - DECOLONIZING THE INDIGENOUS FEMALE BODY IN BOLIVIA: BRAIDS AND ATTIRE. N2 - 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, Aníbal Quijano, and María 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. KW - Indigenous women KW - Chola KW - Decolonization KW - Identity KW - Resistance Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21809 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 11/2025 Dritte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang Biomaterials Science an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 10.03.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-11 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21762 VL - 2025 IS - 11 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 10/2025 Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering for Sustainability“ an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 18.02.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-10 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21755 VL - 2025 IS - 10 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 09/2025 Prüfungsordnung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Engineering“ an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 18.02.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-09 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21748 VL - 2025 IS - 9 ER - TY - THES A1 - Erarslan, Kerem T1 - "Failed Innovations - What can we learn from failures?" N2 - 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. Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21738 ER - TY - THES A1 - Olfert, Jennifer T1 - Sustainability and the Fast Fashion Paradox of Gen Z - A qualitative Analysis of Consumer Characteristics and Cognitive Dissonance N2 - 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. KW - Generation Z KW - Fast Fashion KW - Sustainability KW - Cognitive Dissonance Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21720 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kong, Xin T1 - Brief Introduction to Chinese Economy and its Relationship with World Commodity Prices N2 - 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. KW - Chinese economy and commodities’ proces Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Friedrich, Fabian T1 - Wie beeinflussen Wertschätzung am Arbeitsplatz, wahrgenommene organisationale Unterstützung und psychologische Sicherheit die Arbeitszufriedenheit, Absentismus und Fluktuation? N2 - Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit war es den Einfluss zwischen Wertschätzung am Arbeitsplatz, wahrgenommener organisationaler Unterstützung (POS) und psychologischer Sicherheit mit der Arbeitszufriedenheit, Absentismus und Fluktuationsabsicht anhand einer deutschen Stichprobe zu untersuchen. Es wurde zudem erwartet, dass Wertschätzung eine vermittelnde und moderierende Rolle hinsichtlich der wahrgenommenen organisationalen Unterstützung einnimmt. Dazu fand eine Querschnittsuntersuchung vom 02.12. bis 18.12.2024 mittels Online-Fragebogen statt. Zum Einsatz kamen größtenteils bewährte Messinstrumente der quantitativen Forschung. Für 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% männlich waren. Es zeigte sich, dass Wertschätzung am Arbeitsplatz isoliert und im Zusammenspiel mit POS einen Einfluss auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit und Fluktuationsabsicht von Mitarbeitenden hat. Des Weiteren konnte Wertschätzung den Effekt von POS auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit partiell vermitteln. Zudem konnte ein signifikanter Interaktionseffekt zwischen POS und Wertschätzung auf den Absentismus gezeigt werden. POS und psychologische Sicherheit konnten isoliert betrachtet einen Einfluss auf die Ausprägung der Arbeitszufriedenheit ausüben. Aufgrund des geringen Stichprobenumfangs und eingeschränkter Repräsentativität sollten die Ergebnisse durch weitere Studien repliziert werden. Die Limitationen der Untersuchung sowie Implikationen wurden in dieser Arbeit diskutiert. KW - Wertschätzung am Arbeitsplatz KW - Wahrgenommene organisationale Unterstützung KW - POS KW - Psychologische Sicherheit KW - Krankheitsbedingte Fehlzeiten KW - Fluktuationsabsicht KW - Arbeitszufriedenheit KW - Absentismus Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21694 ER - TY - THES A1 - Sarmiento Gonzalez, Maria Angelica T1 - Sustainable commercialization of Baru in the Cerrado: mapping its Value Chain for rural livelihood enhancement N2 - 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. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Yarram, Sunnyvijay T1 - Investigation of Anaerobic Digestion of Selected Bioplastics in Pilot-Scale Biodigesters N2 - 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. KW - Anaerobic digestion KW - Bioplastics KW - Bioplast GF 106/02 KW - PLA KW - PBAT KW - Ecovio KW - Biogas KW - Methane yield KW - Pilot-scale biodigesters KW - Co-digestion KW - Biodegradable Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21673 ER - TY - THES A1 - Dos Santos, Leonardo Henrique T1 - The effects of cannabinoids CBD and WIN 55 212-2 against oxidative stress in BR1 Astrocytes from a proteomic viewpoint N2 - 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. KW - Cannabis KW - WIN 55.212-2 KW - CBD KW - Astrocytes KW - Proteomics KW - Neurodegeneration KW - Neurodegenerative Diseases KW - OmicScope KW - Oxidative Stress KW - Hydrogen Peroxide KW - BR1 Astrocytes Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21665 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 08/2025 Ordnung über die Auslaufplanung für den Bachelorstudiengang „Nachhaltiger Tourismus“ der Fakultät Gesellschaft & Ökonomie an der Hochschule Rhein-Waal vom 04.02.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-08 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21657 VL - 2025 IS - 8 ER - TY - JOUR T1 - 07/2025 Dritte Änderungssatzung zur Prüfungsordnung für den Masterstudiengang Economics and Finance der Fakultät Gesellschaft und Ökonomie vom 14.01.2025 T3 - Amtliche Bekanntmachungen der Hochschule Rhein-Waal - 2025-07 Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21648 VL - 2025 IS - 07 ER - TY - THES A1 - Pozdnyakova, Olga T1 - Exploring the Impact of Ecolabel Elements on Consumer Product Perception and Purchase Intention N2 - 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. KW - Ecolabels KW - Sustainable products KW - Environmental perception KW - Visual attention KW - Eye tracking Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Bollig, Natalie T1 - Analyse gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit und Prävention im Kreis Kleve anhand der Schuleingangsuntersuchung mit Ableitung von Präventionsmaßnahmen N2 - Das Thema dieser Arbeit ist „Analyse gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit und Prävention im Kreis Kleve anhand der Schuleingangsuntersuchung mit Ableitung von Präventionsmaßnahmen“ und betrachtet die Entwicklung ausgewählter Parameter der Schuleingangsuntersuchung und gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit in den 16 Kommunen des Kreises Kleve über 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 für Präventionsmaßnahmen bestimmt. Die nächsten beiden Forschungsfragen betrachten die Zusammenhänge zwischen den untersuchten Parametern. Die Ergebnisse werden mit dem aktuellen Forschungsstand verglichen und eingeordnet. Die erste Forschungsfrage wird graphisch mit Boxplots, Balkendiagrammen und Qualitätsregelkarten 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 können beim BMI eine schwache Entwicklung festgestellt werden sowie bei der Körperkoordination 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 Bürgergeldempfänger sinkt bis zum Jahr 2021/2022 und steigt anschließend, auch der Mietspiegel steigt. Bei den Parametern Kinder- und Jugendärzte, Bewegungsangebote und Migrationsanteil kann keine Entwicklung ausgewertet werden. Bei der zweiten Forschungsfrage sind in den nördlichen Kommunen mehr negative Bewertungen als in den südlichen Kommunen ermittelt worden. Diese negativen Bewertungen zeigen sich bei der Teilnahme an den Impfungen, der Körperkoordination und den U-Untersuchungen. Bei der dritten Forschungsfrage können starke Zusammenhänge 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 Körperkoordination und BMI können keine Zusammenhänge analysiert werden. Bei der vierten Forschungsfrage können keine Korrelationen festgestellt werden. Insgesamt können mit Hilfe dieser Ergebnisse Präventionsmaßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Parameter BMI, Körperkoordination, Impfquote und U-Untersuchungen ermittelt werden. KW - Prävention KW - Gesundheitliche Chancengleichheit KW - Schuleingangsuntersuchung KW - Kindergesundheit Y1 - 2025 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-21623 ER - TY - THES A1 - Kisters, Sina T1 - Belastungen im Berufsalltag einer pädagogischen Fachkraft und der professionelle Umgang mit Diesen N2 - Pädagogische Fachkräfte sind in ihrem Berufsalltag mit vielfältigen Belastungen konfrontiert, darunter hoher Zeitdruck, Personalmangel und steigende berufliche Anforderungen. Diese Faktoren führen zu erheblichen psychischen und physischen Beanspruchungen, die sich auf die Arbeitszufriedenheit und die pädagogische Qualität auswirken können. Ziel dieser Bachelorarbeit ist es, individuelle und institu-tionelle Strategien zur Bewältigung dieser Belastungen zu untersuchen. Mithilfe einer anonymen Onlineumfrage und eines Experteninterviews wurden so-wohl persönliche als auch strukturelle Bewältigungsmechanismen erfasst. Die Er-gebnisse zeigen, dass Fachkräfte vor allem auf soziale Unterstützung, sportliche Aktivitäten und informelle Gespräche mit Kolleginnen und Kollegen setzen, wäh-rend professionelle Hilfsangebote wie Supervision oder Coaching selten genutzt werden. Institutionelle Maßnahmen wie Fortbildungen und Teambuilding-Aktivitäten werden zwar als hilfreich wahrgenommen, sind jedoch häufig unzureichend vor-handen. Theoretisch unterstreichen die Ergebnisse die Bedeutung von Schutzfaktoren wie Resilienz, sozialer Unterstützung und einer positiven Arbeitsumgebung. Praktisch ergibt sich daraus die Notwendigkeit, betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung auszu-bauen, Arbeitsbedingungen durch bessere Personalbemessung und flexible Struk-turen zu optimieren und Leitungskräfte gezielt in der Förderung eines gesunden Arbeitsklimas zu schulen. Nur durch eine Kombination individueller und institutio-neller Maßnahmen kann langfristig eine nachhaltige Verbesserung der Arbeitsbe-dingungen pädagogischer Fachkräfte erreicht werden. Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Nguyen, Duc Huy Quang T1 - Debugging and Analyzing USB Communication on a Custom USB-LORA Board Using Open-Source USB Tracing Tools N2 - 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. KW - Universal Serial Bus KW - USB sniffer KW - USB communication analysis KW - FT232H chip KW - LoRa transceiver Y1 - 2025 ER - TY - THES A1 - Menon, Praanav Mahadev T1 - Using the U-Net Model for Steel Microstructure Identification and Analysis N2 - 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. KW - Computer-Vision KW - Steel Metallography KW - Retained Austenite KW - Smooth blend predictions Y1 - 2024 U6 - http://nbn-resolving.de/urn/resolver.pl?urn:nbn:de:hbz:1383-opus4-20600 ER -