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multidimensional segmentation</title> <meta name="description" content="Search results for: multidimensional segmentation"> <meta name="keywords" content="multidimensional segmentation"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1, minimum-scale=1, maximum-scale=1, user-scalable=no"> <meta charset="utf-8"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" rel="shortcut icon"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/bootstrap-4.2.1/css/bootstrap.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/fontawesome/css/all.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/css/site.css?v=150220211555" rel="stylesheet"> </head> <body> <header> <div class="container"> <nav class="navbar navbar-expand-lg navbar-light"> <a class="navbar-brand" href="https://waset.org"> <img src="https://cdn.waset.org/static/images/wasetc.png" alt="Open Science Research Excellence" title="Open Science Research Excellence" /> 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action="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search"> <div id="custom-search-input"> <div class="input-group"> <i class="fas fa-search"></i> <input type="text" class="search-query" name="q" placeholder="Author, Title, Abstract, Keywords" value="multidimensional segmentation"> <input type="submit" class="btn_search" value="Search"> </div> </div> </form> </div> </div> <div class="row mt-3"> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Commenced</strong> in January 2007</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Frequency:</strong> Monthly</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Edition:</strong> International</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Paper Count:</strong> 734</div> </div> </div> </div> <h1 class="mt-3 mb-3 text-center" style="font-size:1.6rem;">Search results for: multidimensional segmentation</h1> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">44</span> Cross-Cultural Conflict Management in Transnational Business Relationships: A Qualitative Study with Top Executives in Chinese, German and Middle Eastern Cases </h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sandra%20Hartl">Sandra Hartl</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Meena%20Chavan"> Meena Chavan</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper presents the outcome of a four year Ph.D. research on cross-cultural conflict management in transnational business relationships. An important and complex problem about managing conflicts that arise across cultures in business relationships is investigated, and conflict resolution strategies are identified. This paper particularly focuses on transnational relationships within a Chinese, German and Middle Eastern framework. Unlike many papers on this issue which have been built on experiments with international MBA students, this research provides real-life cases of cross-cultural conflicts which are not easy to capture. Its uniqueness is underpinned as the real case data was gathered by interviewing top executives at management positions in large multinational corporations through a qualitative case study method approach. This paper makes a valuable contribution to the theory of cross-cultural conflicts, and despite the sensitivity, this research primarily presents real-time business data about breaches of contracts between two counterparties engaged in transnational operating organizations. The overarching aim of this research is to identify the degree of significance for the cultural factors and the communication factors embedded in cross-cultural business conflicts. It questions from a cultural perspective what factors lead to the conflicts in each of the cases, what the causes are and the role of culture in identifying effective strategies for resolving international disputes in an increasingly globalized business world. The results of 20 face to face interviews are outlined, which were conducted, recorded, transcribed and then analyzed using the NVIVO qualitative data analysis system. The outcomes make evident that the factors leading to conflicts are broadly organized under seven themes, which are communication, cultural difference, environmental issues, work structures, knowledge and skills, cultural anxiety and personal characteristics. When evaluating the causes of the conflict it is to notice that these are rather multidimensional. Irrespective of the conflict types (relationship or task-based conflict or due to individual personal differences), relationships are almost always an element of all conflicts. Cultural differences, which are a critical factor for conflicts, result from different cultures placing different levels of importance on relationships. Communication issues which are another cause of conflict also reflect different relationships styles favored by different cultures. In identifying effective strategies for solving cross-cultural business conflicts this research identifies that solutions need to consider the national cultures (country specific characteristics), organizational cultures and individual culture, of the persons engaged in the conflict and how these are interlinked to each other. Outcomes identify practical dispute resolution strategies to resolve cross-cultural business conflicts in reference to communication, empathy and training to improve cultural understanding and cultural competence, through the use of mediation. To conclude, the findings of this research will not only add value to academic knowledge of cross-cultural conflict management across transnational businesses but will also add value to numerous cross-border business relationships worldwide. Above all it identifies the influence of cultures and communication and cross-cultural competence in reducing cross-cultural business conflicts in transnational business. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=business%20conflict" title="business conflict">business conflict</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=conflict%20management" title=" conflict management"> conflict management</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cross-cultural%20communication" title=" cross-cultural communication"> cross-cultural communication</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=dispute%20resolution" title=" dispute resolution"> dispute resolution</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/87948/cross-cultural-conflict-management-in-transnational-business-relationships-a-qualitative-study-with-top-executives-in-chinese-german-and-middle-eastern-cases" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/87948.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">162</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">43</span> Wetland Community and Their Livelihood Opportunities in the Face of Changing Climatic Condition in Southwest Bangladesh</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mohsina%20Aktar">Mohsina Aktar</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Bishawjit%20Mallick"> Bishawjit Mallick</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Bangladesh faces the multidimensional manifestations of climate change e.g. flood, cyclone, sea level rise, drainage congestion, salinity, etc. This study aimed at to find out the community’s perception of the perceived impact of climate change on their wetland resource based livelihood, to analyze their present livelihood scenario and to find out required institutional setup to strengthen present livelihood scenario. Therefore, this study required both quantitative analysis like quantification of wetland resources, occupation, etc. and also exploratory information like policy and institutional reform. For quantitative information 200 questionnaire survey and in some cases observation survey and for socially shareable qualitative and quantitative issues case study and focus group discussion were conducted. In-Depth interview was conducted for socially non-shareable qualitative issues. The overall findings of this study have been presented maintaining a sequence- perception about climate change effect, livelihood scenario and required institutional support of the wetland community. Flood has been ranked where cyclone effect is comparatively less disastrous in this area. Heavy rainfall comes after the cyclone. Female members responded almost same about the ranking and effects of frequently occurred and devastating effects of climate change. People are much more aware of the impact of climate change. Training of Care in RVCC project helps to increase their knowledge level. If the level of education can be increased, people can fight against calamity and poverty with more confidence. People seem to overcome the problems of water logging and thus besides involving in Hydroponics (33.3%) as prime occupation in monsoon; they are also engaged in other business related activities. January to May is the low-income season for the farmers. But some people don’t want to change their traditional occupation and their age is above 45. The young earning member wants to utilize their lean income period by alternative occupation. People who do not have own land and performing water transportation or other types of occupation are now interested about Hydroponics. People who give their land on rent are now thinking about renting their land in monsoon as through that they can earn a sound amount rather than get nothing. What they require is just seed, training, and capital. Present marketing system faces the problem of communication. So this sector needed to be developed. Involvement of women in income earning activity is very low (5.1%), and 100% women are housewives. They became inferior due to their educational level and dominance of their husband. Only one NGO named BCAS (Bangladesh Center for Advanced Studies) has been found engage training facilities and advocacy for this purpose. Upazilla agricultural extension office like other GO remains inactive to give support the community for extension and improvement of Hydroponics agriculture. If the community gets proper support and inspiration, they can fight against crisis of low-income and climate change, with the Hydroponics cultivation system successfully. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=wetland%20community" title="wetland community">wetland community</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=hydroponics" title=" hydroponics"> hydroponics</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=climate%20change%20adaptation" title=" climate change adaptation"> climate change adaptation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=livelihood" title=" livelihood"> livelihood</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/53230/wetland-community-and-their-livelihood-opportunities-in-the-face-of-changing-climatic-condition-in-southwest-bangladesh" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/53230.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">274</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">42</span> Diversity in the Community - The Disability Perspective</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sarah%20Reker">Sarah Reker</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Christiane%20H.%20Kellner"> Christiane H. Kellner</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> From the perspective of people with disabilities, inequalities can also emerge from spatial segregation, the lack of social contacts or limited economic resources. In order to reduce or even eliminate these disadvantages and increase general well-being, community-based participation as well as decentralisation efforts within exclusively residential homes is essential. Therefore, the new research project “Index for participation development and quality of life for persons with disabilities”(TeLe-Index, 2014-2016), which is anchored at the Technische Universität München in Munich and at a large residential complex and service provider for persons with disabilities in the outskirts of Munich aims to assist the development of community-based living environments. People with disabilities should be able to participate in social life beyond the confines of the institution. Since a diverse society is a society in which different individual needs and wishes can emerge and be catered to, the ultimate goal of the project is to create an environment for all citizens–regardless of disability, age or ethnic background–that accommodates their daily activities and requirements. The UN-Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Germany also ratified, postulates the necessity of user-centered design, especially when it comes to evaluating the individual needs and wishes of all citizens. Therefore, a multidimensional approach is required. Based on this insight, the structure of the town-like center will be remodeled to open up the community to all people. This strategy should lead to more equal opportunities and open the way for a much more diverse community. Therefore, macro-level research questions were inspired by quality of life theory and were formulated as follows for different dimensions: •The user dimension: what needs and necessities can we identify? Are needs person-related? Are there any options to choose from? What type of quality of life can we identify? The economic dimension: what resources (both material and staff-related) are available in the region? (How) are they used? What costs (can) arise and what effects do they entail? •The environment dimension: what “environmental factors” such as access (mobility and absence of barriers) prove beneficial or impedimental? In this context, we have provided academic supervision and support for three projects (the construction of a new school, inclusive housing for children and teenagers with disabilities and the professionalization of employees with person-centered thinking). Since we cannot present all the issues of the umbrella-project within the conference framework, we will be focusing on one project more in-depth, namely “Outpatient Housing Options for Children and Teenagers with Disabilities”. The insights we have obtained until now will enable us to present the intermediary results of our evaluation. The most central questions pertaining to this part of the research were the following: •How have the existing network relations been designed? •What meaning (or significance) does the existing service offers and structures have for the everyday life of an external residential group? These issues underpinned the environmental analyses as well as the qualitative guided interviews and qualitative network analyses we carried out. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=decentralisation" title="decentralisation">decentralisation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=environmental%20analyses" title=" environmental analyses"> environmental analyses</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=outpatient%20housing%20options%20for%20children%20and%20teenagers%20with%20disabilities" title=" outpatient housing options for children and teenagers with disabilities"> outpatient housing options for children and teenagers with disabilities</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=qualitative%20network%20analyses" title=" qualitative network analyses"> qualitative network analyses</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/37376/diversity-in-the-community-the-disability-perspective" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/37376.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">365</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">41</span> Toward the Decarbonisation of EU Transport Sector: Impacts and Challenges of the Diffusion of Electric Vehicles</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Francesca%20Fermi">Francesca Fermi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Paola%20Astegiano"> Paola Astegiano</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Angelo%20Martino"> Angelo Martino</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Stephanie%20Heitel"> Stephanie Heitel</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Michael%20Krail"> Michael Krail</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> In order to achieve the targeted emission reductions for the decarbonisation of the European economy by 2050, fundamental contributions are required from both energy and transport sectors. The objective of this paper is to analyse the impacts of a largescale diffusion of e-vehicles, either battery-based or fuel cells, together with the implementation of transport policies aiming at decreasing the use of motorised private modes in order to achieve greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, in the context of a future high share of renewable energy. The analysis of the impacts and challenges of future scenarios on transport sector is performed with the ASTRA (ASsessment of TRAnsport Strategies) model. ASTRA is a strategic system-dynamic model at European scale (EU28 countries, Switzerland and Norway), consisting of different sub-modules related to specific aspects: the transport system (e.g. passenger trips, tonnes moved), the vehicle fleet (composition and evolution of technologies), the demographic system, the economic system, the environmental system (energy consumption, emissions). A key feature of ASTRA is that the modules are linked together: changes in one system are transmitted to other systems and can feed-back to the original source of variation. Thanks to its multidimensional structure, ASTRA is capable to simulate a wide range of impacts stemming from the application of transport policy measures: the model addresses direct impacts as well as second-level and third-level impacts. The simulation of the different scenarios is performed within the REFLEX project, where the ASTRA model is employed in combination with several energy models in a comprehensive Modelling System. From the transport sector perspective, some of the impacts are driven by the trend of electricity price estimated from the energy modelling system. Nevertheless, the major drivers to a low carbon transport sector are policies related to increased fuel efficiency of conventional drivetrain technologies, improvement of demand management (e.g. increase of public transport and car sharing services/usage) and diffusion of environmentally friendly vehicles (e.g. electric vehicles). The final modelling results of the REFLEX project will be available from October 2018. The analysis of the impacts and challenges of future scenarios is performed in terms of transport, environmental and social indicators. The diffusion of e-vehicles produces a consistent reduction of future greenhouse gas emissions, although the decarbonisation target can be achieved only with the contribution of complementary transport policies on demand management and supporting the deployment of low-emission alternative energy for non-road transport modes. The paper explores the implications through time of transport policy measures on mobility and environment, underlying to what extent they can contribute to a decarbonisation of the transport sector. Acknowledgements: The results refer to the REFLEX project which has received grants from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Grant Agreement No. 691685. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=decarbonisation" title="decarbonisation">decarbonisation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=greenhouse%20gas%20emissions" title=" greenhouse gas emissions"> greenhouse gas emissions</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=e-mobility" title=" e-mobility"> e-mobility</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=transport%20policies" title=" transport policies"> transport policies</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=energy" title=" energy"> energy</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/96353/toward-the-decarbonisation-of-eu-transport-sector-impacts-and-challenges-of-the-diffusion-of-electric-vehicles" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/96353.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">153</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">40</span> Eco-City Planning and Urban Design in Lagos, Nigeria: Recent Innovations, Trends, Concerns, Challenges, and Solutions</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Dahunsi%20Michael%20Oluseyi">Dahunsi Michael Oluseyi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper aims to extensively examine eco-city planning and urban design in Lagos, Nigeria. It will delve into the city's developments, challenges, and potential solutions to offer insights for sustainable urban growth within the rapidly expanding urban landscape. The research will scrutinize recent innovations, emerging trends, and practical remedies to promote ecological sustainability within an urban framework. It will encompass a more in-depth review of current literature, case studies, and qualitative analyses, thereby augmenting the depth and breadth of the research. The objectives are to assess the current eco-city planning initiatives and urban design trends in Lagos, Nigeria, considering the city's unique characteristics and challenges. To identify and analyze the challenges encountered during the implementation of eco-friendly urban developments in Lagos, to explore and evaluate the innovative and practical solutions that are implemented to promote sustainability within the city, to provide comprehensive insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and other stakeholders involved in sustainable urban development in Lagos, the rapid urbanization of Lagos has brought forth a myriad of challenges, including a burgeoning population, inadequate infrastructure, waste management issues, and environmental pollution. Eco-city planning has emerged as a promising approach to addressing these obstacles, striving to create urban spaces that are more habitable, resource-efficient, and environmentally friendly. This research holds substantial importance in exploring the application of eco-city planning principles within a megacity like Lagos. Analyzing recent innovations, trends, concerns, challenges, and solutions provides invaluable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders dedicated to fostering sustainable urban development. The methodologies employed in this research are structured to embrace a multifaceted and intricate approach, aiming to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the complexities inherent in eco-city planning and urban design in Lagos, Nigeria. This methodological framework is designed to encompass various diverse strategies and analytical tools to effectively capture the multidimensional aspects of sustainable urban development. It involves an in-depth analysis of academic publications, governmental reports, and urban planning documents to highlight global eco-city planning trends and gather Lagos-specific insights through a detailed exploration of eco-friendly initiatives and projects in Lagos to evaluate successes, challenges, and strategies for addressing environmental concerns by engaging key stakeholders, including urban planners, policymakers, environmental experts, and residents, to collect firsthand perspectives, concerns, and insights. Also, a thorough analysis will be carried out on data collected from literature reviews, case studies, interviews, and surveys used to extract prevalent patterns, challenges, and innovative solutions from diverse sources. This study aims to contribute to the discourse on sustainable urban development by offering a comprehensive analysis of eco-city planning in Lagos and providing practical recommendations for a more sustainable urban future. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=eco-friendly" title="eco-friendly">eco-friendly</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=innovation" title=" innovation"> innovation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=sustainability" title=" sustainability"> sustainability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=stakeholders" title=" stakeholders"> stakeholders</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/175763/eco-city-planning-and-urban-design-in-lagos-nigeria-recent-innovations-trends-concerns-challenges-and-solutions" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/175763.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">62</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">39</span> A Visualization Classification Method for Identifying the Decayed Citrus Fruit Infected by Fungi Based on Hyperspectral Imaging</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jiangbo%20Li">Jiangbo Li</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Wenqian%20Huang"> Wenqian Huang</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Early detection of fungal infection in citrus fruit is one of the major problems in the postharvest commercialization process. The automatic and nondestructive detection of infected fruits is still a challenge for the citrus industry. At present, the visual inspection of rotten citrus fruits is commonly performed by workers through the ultraviolet induction fluorescence technology or manual sorting in citrus packinghouses to remove fruit subject with fungal infection. However, the former entails a number of problems because exposing people to this kind of lighting is potentially hazardous to human health, and the latter is very inefficient. Orange is used as a research object. This study would focus on this problem and proposed an effective method based on Vis-NIR hyperspectral imaging in the wavelength range of 400-1000 nm with a spectroscopic resolution of 2.8 nm. In this work, three normalization approaches are applied prior to analysis to reduce the effect of sample curvature on spectral profiles, and it is found that mean normalization was the most effective pretreatment for decreasing spectral variability due to curvature. Then, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to a dataset composing of average spectra from decayed and normal tissue to reduce the dimensionality of data and observe the ability of Vis-NIR hyper-spectra to discriminate data from two classes. In this case, it was observed that normal and decayed spectra were separable along the resultant first principal component (PC1) axis. Subsequently, five wavelengths (band) centered at 577, 702, 751, 808, and 923 nm were selected as the characteristic wavelengths by analyzing the loadings of PC1. A multispectral combination image was generated based on five selected characteristic wavelength images. Based on the obtained multispectral combination image, the intensity slicing pseudocolor image processing method is used to generate a 2-D visual classification image that would enhance the contrast between normal and decayed tissue. Finally, an image segmentation algorithm for detection of decayed fruit was developed based on the pseudocolor image coupled with a simple thresholding method. For the investigated 238 independent set samples including infected fruits infected by Penicillium digitatum and normal fruits, the total success rate is 100% and 97.5%, respectively, and, the proposed algorithm also used to identify the orange infected by penicillium italicum with a 100% identification accuracy, indicating that the proposed multispectral algorithm here is an effective method and it is potential to be applied in citrus industry. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=citrus%20fruit" title="citrus fruit">citrus fruit</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=early%20rotten" title=" early rotten"> early rotten</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fungal%20infection" title=" fungal infection"> fungal infection</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=hyperspectral%20imaging" title=" hyperspectral imaging"> hyperspectral imaging</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/65840/a-visualization-classification-method-for-identifying-the-decayed-citrus-fruit-infected-by-fungi-based-on-hyperspectral-imaging" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/65840.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">299</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">38</span> Comparison of Methodologies to Compute the Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Involving Faults and Associated Uncertainties</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Aude%20Gounelle">Aude Gounelle</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Gloria%20Senfaute"> Gloria Senfaute</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ludivine%20Saint-Mard"> Ludivine Saint-Mard</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Thomas%20Chartier"> Thomas Chartier</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The long-term deformation rates of faults are not fully captured by Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment (PSHA). PSHA that use catalogues to develop area or smoothed-seismicity sources is limited by the data available to constraint future earthquakes activity rates. The integration of faults in PSHA can at least partially address the long-term deformation. However, careful treatment of fault sources is required, particularly, in low strain rate regions, where estimated seismic hazard levels are highly sensitive to assumptions concerning fault geometry, segmentation and slip rate. When integrating faults in PSHA various constraints on earthquake rates from geologic and seismologic data have to be satisfied. For low strain rate regions where such data is scarce it would be especially challenging. Faults in PSHA requires conversion of the geologic and seismologic data into fault geometries, slip rates and then into earthquake activity rates. Several approaches exist for translating slip rates into earthquake activity rates. In the most frequently used approach, the background earthquakes are handled using a truncated approach, in which earthquakes with a magnitude lower or equal to a threshold magnitude (Mw) occur in the background zone, with a rate defined by the rate in the earthquake catalogue. Although magnitudes higher than the threshold are located on the fault with a rate defined using the average slip rate of the fault. As high-lighted by several research, seismic events with magnitudes stronger than the selected magnitude threshold may potentially occur in the background and not only at the fault, especially in regions of slow tectonic deformation. It also has been known that several sections of a fault or several faults could rupture during a single fault-to-fault rupture. It is then essential to apply a consistent modelling procedure to allow for a large set of possible fault-to-fault ruptures to occur aleatory in the hazard model while reflecting the individual slip rate of each section of the fault. In 2019, a tool named SHERIFS (Seismic Hazard and Earthquake Rates in Fault Systems) was published. The tool is using a methodology to calculate the earthquake rates in a fault system where the slip-rate budget of each fault is conversed into rupture rates for all possible single faults and faultto-fault ruptures. The objective of this paper is to compare the SHERIFS method with one other frequently used model to analyse the impact on the seismic hazard and through sensibility studies better understand the influence of key parameters and assumptions. For this application, a simplified but realistic case study was selected, which is in an area of moderate to hight seismicity (South Est of France) and where the fault is supposed to have a low strain. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=deformation%20rates" title="deformation rates">deformation rates</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=faults" title=" faults"> faults</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=probabilistic%20seismic%20hazard" title=" probabilistic seismic hazard"> probabilistic seismic hazard</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=PSHA" title=" PSHA"> PSHA</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/183425/comparison-of-methodologies-to-compute-the-probabilistic-seismic-hazard-involving-faults-and-associated-uncertainties" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/183425.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">66</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">37</span> Promoting Resilience in Adolescents: Integrating Adolescent Medicine and Child Psychology Perspectives</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Xu%20Qian">Xu Qian</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This abstract examines the concept of resilience in adolescents from both adolescent medicine and child psychology perspectives. It discusses the role of healthcare providers in fostering resilience among adolescents, encompassing physical, psychological, and social aspects. The paper highlights evidence-based interventions and practical strategies for promoting resilience in this population. Introduction: Resilience plays a crucial role in the healthy development of adolescents, enabling them to navigate through the challenges of this transitional period. This abstract explores the concept of resilience from the perspectives of adolescent medicine and child psychology, shedding light on the collective efforts of healthcare providers in fostering resilience. By integrating the principles and practices of these two disciplines, this abstract emphasizes the multidimensional nature of resilience and its significance in the overall well-being of adolescents. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, encompassing research articles, empirical studies, and expert opinions from both adolescent medicine and child psychology fields. The search included databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from the past decade. The review aimed to identify evidence-based interventions and practical strategies employed by healthcare providers to promote resilience among adolescents. Results: The review revealed several key findings regarding the promotion of resilience in adolescents. Firstly, resilience is a dynamic process influenced by individual characteristics, environmental factors, and the interaction between the two. Secondly, healthcare providers play a critical role in fostering resilience by addressing the physical, psychological, and social needs of adolescents. This entails comprehensive healthcare services that integrate medical care, mental health support, and social interventions. Thirdly, evidence-based interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, social skills training, and positive youth development programs have shown promising outcomes in enhancing resilience. Discussion: The integration of adolescent medicine and child psychology perspectives provides a comprehensive framework for promoting resilience in adolescents. By acknowledging the interplay between physical health, psychological well-being, and social functioning, healthcare providers can tailor interventions to address the specific needs and challenges faced by adolescents. Collaborative efforts between medical professionals, psychologists, educators, and families are vital in creating a supportive environment that fosters resilience. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of early identification and intervention, emphasizing the need for routine screening and assessment to identify adolescents at risk and provide timely support. Conclusion: Promoting resilience in adolescents requires a holistic approach that integrates adolescent medicine and child psychology perspectives. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of resilience, healthcare providers can implement evidence-based interventions and practical strategies to enhance the well-being of adolescents. The collaboration between healthcare professionals from different disciplines, alongside the involvement of families and communities, is crucial for creating a resilient support system. By investing in the promotion of resilience during adolescence, we can empower young individuals to overcome adversity and thrive in their journey toward adulthood. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=psychology" title="psychology">psychology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=clinical%20psychology" title=" clinical psychology"> clinical psychology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=child%20psychology" title=" child psychology"> child psychology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=adolescent%20psychology" title=" adolescent psychology"> adolescent psychology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=adolescent" title=" adolescent"> adolescent</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/168090/promoting-resilience-in-adolescents-integrating-adolescent-medicine-and-child-psychology-perspectives" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/168090.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">77</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">36</span> Concept Mapping to Reach Consensus on an Antibiotic Smart Use Strategy Model to Promote and Support Appropriate Antibiotic Prescribing in a Hospital, Thailand</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Phenphak%20Horadee">Phenphak Horadee</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Rodchares%20Hanrinth"> Rodchares Hanrinth</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Saithip%20Suttiruksa"> Saithip Suttiruksa</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Inappropriate use of antibiotics has happened in several hospitals, Thailand. Drug use evaluation (DUE) is one strategy to overcome this difficulty. However, most community hospitals still encounter incomplete evaluation resulting overuse of antibiotics with high cost. Consequently, drug-resistant bacteria have been rising due to inappropriate antibiotic use. The aim of this study was to involve stakeholders in conceptualizing, developing, and prioritizing a feasible intervention strategy to promote and support appropriate antibiotic prescribing in a community hospital, Thailand. Study antibiotics included four antibiotics such as Meropenem, Piperacillin/tazobactam, Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and Vancomycin. The study was conducted for the 1-year period between March 1, 2018, and March 31, 2019, in a community hospital in the northeastern part of Thailand. Concept mapping was used in a purposive sample, including doctors (one was an administrator), pharmacists, and nurses who involving drug use evaluation of antibiotics. In-depth interviews for each participant and survey research were conducted to seek the problems for inappropriate use of antibiotics based on drug use evaluation system. Seventy-seven percent of DUE reported appropriate antibiotic prescribing, which still did not reach the goal of 80 percent appropriateness. Meropenem led other antibiotics for inappropriate prescribing. The causes of the unsuccessful DUE program were classified into three themes such as personnel, lack of public relation and communication, and unsupported policy and impractical regulations. During the first meeting, stakeholders (n = 21) expressed the generation of interventions. During the second meeting, participants who were almost the same group of people in the first meeting (n = 21) were requested to independently rate the feasibility and importance of each idea and to categorize them into relevant clusters to facilitate multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis. The outputs of analysis included the idealist, cluster list, point map, point rating map, cluster map, and cluster rating map. All of these were distributed to participants (n = 21) during the third meeting to reach consensus on an intervention model. The final proposed intervention strategy included 29 feasible and crucial interventions in seven clusters: development of information technology system, establishing policy and taking it into the action plan, proactive public relations of the policy, action plan and workflow, in cooperation of multidisciplinary teams in drug use evaluation, work review and evaluation with performance reporting, promoting and developing professional and clinical skill for staff with training programs, and developing practical drug use evaluation guideline for antibiotics. These interventions are relevant and fit to several intervention strategies for antibiotic stewardship program in many international organizations such as participation of the multidisciplinary team, developing information technology to support antibiotic smart use, and communication. These interventions were prioritized for implementation over a 1-year period. Once the possibility of each activity or plan is set up, the proposed program could be applied and integrated into hospital policy after evaluating plans. Effectiveness of each intervention could be promoted to other community hospitals to promote and support antibiotic smart use. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=antibiotic" title="antibiotic">antibiotic</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=concept%20mapping" title=" concept mapping"> concept mapping</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=drug%20use%20evaluation" title=" drug use evaluation"> drug use evaluation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=multidisciplinary%20teams" title=" multidisciplinary teams"> multidisciplinary teams</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/109515/concept-mapping-to-reach-consensus-on-an-antibiotic-smart-use-strategy-model-to-promote-and-support-appropriate-antibiotic-prescribing-in-a-hospital-thailand" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/109515.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">118</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">35</span> Machine Learning for Disease Prediction Using Symptoms and X-Ray Images</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ravija%20Gunawardana">Ravija Gunawardana</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Banuka%20Athuraliya"> Banuka Athuraliya</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Machine learning has emerged as a powerful tool for disease diagnosis and prediction. The use of machine learning algorithms has the potential to improve the accuracy of disease prediction, thereby enabling medical professionals to provide more effective and personalized treatments. This study focuses on developing a machine-learning model for disease prediction using symptoms and X-ray images. The importance of this study lies in its potential to assist medical professionals in accurately diagnosing diseases, thereby improving patient outcomes. Respiratory diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and chest X-rays are commonly used in the diagnosis of these diseases. However, accurately interpreting X-ray images requires significant expertise and can be time-consuming, making it difficult to diagnose respiratory diseases in a timely manner. By incorporating machine learning algorithms, we can significantly enhance disease prediction accuracy, ultimately leading to better patient care. The study utilized the Mask R-CNN algorithm, which is a state-of-the-art method for object detection and segmentation in images, to process chest X-ray images. The model was trained and tested on a large dataset of patient information, which included both symptom data and X-ray images. The performance of the model was evaluated using a range of metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The results showed that the model achieved an accuracy rate of over 90%, indicating that it was able to accurately detect and segment regions of interest in the X-ray images. In addition to X-ray images, the study also incorporated symptoms as input data for disease prediction. The study used three different classifiers, namely Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbor and Support Vector Machine, to predict diseases based on symptoms. These classifiers were trained and tested using the same dataset of patient information as the X-ray model. The results showed promising accuracy rates for predicting diseases using symptoms, with the ensemble learning techniques significantly improving the accuracy of disease prediction. The study's findings indicate that the use of machine learning algorithms can significantly enhance disease prediction accuracy, ultimately leading to better patient care. The model developed in this study has the potential to assist medical professionals in diagnosing respiratory diseases more accurately and efficiently. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of the model can be affected by several factors, including the quality of the X-ray images, the size of the dataset used for training, and the complexity of the disease being diagnosed. In conclusion, the study demonstrated the potential of machine learning algorithms for disease prediction using symptoms and X-ray images. The use of these algorithms can improve the accuracy of disease diagnosis, ultimately leading to better patient care. Further research is needed to validate the model's accuracy and effectiveness in a clinical setting and to expand its application to other diseases. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=K-nearest%20neighbor" title="K-nearest neighbor">K-nearest neighbor</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=mask%20R-CNN" title=" mask R-CNN"> mask R-CNN</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=random%20forest" title=" random forest"> random forest</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=support%20vector%20machine" title=" support vector machine"> support vector machine</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/166165/machine-learning-for-disease-prediction-using-symptoms-and-x-ray-images" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/166165.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">154</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">34</span> Adjusting Mind and Heart to Ovarian Cancer: Correlational Study on Italian Women</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Chiara%20Cosentino">Chiara Cosentino</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Carlo%20Pruneti"> Carlo Pruneti</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Carla%20Merisio"> Carla Merisio</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Domenico%20Sgromo"> Domenico Sgromo</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction – Psychoneuroimmunology as approach clearly showed how psychological features can influence health through specific physiological pathways linked to the stress reaction. This can be true also in cancer, in its latter conceptualization seen as a chronic disease. Therefore, it is still not clear how the psychological features can combine with a physiological specific path, for a better adjustment to cancer. The aim of this study is identifying how in Italian survivors, perceived social support, body image, coping and quality of life correlate with or influence Heart Rate Variability (HRV), the physiological parameter that can mirror a condition of chronic stress or a good relaxing capability. Method - The study had an exploratory transversal design. The final sample was made of 38 ovarian cancer survivors aged from 29 to 80 (M= 56,08; SD=12,76) following a program for Ovarian Cancer at the Oncological Clinic, University Hospital of Parma, Italy. Participants were asked to fill: Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS); Derridford Appearance Scale-59 (DAS-59); Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC); Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC). For each participant was recorded Short-Term HRV (5 minutes) using emWavePro. Results– Data showed many interesting correlations within the psychological features. EORTC scores have a significant correlation with DAS-59 (r =-.327 p <.05), MSPSS (r =.411 p<.05), and MAC scores, in particular with the strategy Fatalism (r =.364 p<.05). A good social support improves HRV (F(1,33)= 4.27 p<.05). Perceiving themselves as effective in their environment, preserving a good role functioning (EORTC), positively affects HRV (F(1,33)=9.810 p<.001). Women admitting concerns towards body image seem prone to emotive disclosure, reducing emotional distress and improving HRV (β=.453); emotional avoidance worsens HRV (β=-.391). Discussion and conclusion - Results showed a strong relationship between body image and Quality of Life. These data suggest that higher concerns on body image, in particular, the negative self-concept linked to appearance, was linked to the worst functioning in everyday life. The relation between the negative self-concept and a reduction in emotional functioning is understandable in terms of possible distress deriving from the perception of body appearance. The relationship between a high perceived social support and a better functioning in everyday life was also confirmed. In this sample fatalism, was associated with a better physical, role and emotional functioning. In these women, the presence of a good support may activate the physiological Social Engagement System improving their HRV. Perceiving themselves effective in their environment, preserving a good role functioning, also positively affects HRV, probably following the same physiological pathway. A higher presence of concerns about appearance contributes to a higher HRV. Probably women admitting more body concerns are prone to a better emotive disclosure. This could reduce emotional distress improving HRV and global health. This study reached preliminary demonstration of an ‘Integrated Model of Defense’ in these cancer survivors. In these model, psychological features interact building a better quality of life and a condition of psychological well-being that is associated and influence HRV, then the physiological condition. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cancer%20survivors" title="cancer survivors">cancer survivors</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=heart%20rate%20variability" title=" heart rate variability"> heart rate variability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=ovarian%20cancer" title=" ovarian cancer"> ovarian cancer</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=psychophysiological%20adjustment" title=" psychophysiological adjustment"> psychophysiological adjustment</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/74208/adjusting-mind-and-heart-to-ovarian-cancer-correlational-study-on-italian-women" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/74208.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">188</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">33</span> Impact of School Environment on Socio-Affective Development: A Quasi-Experimental Longitudinal Study of Urban and Suburban Gifted and Talented Programs</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Rebekah%20Granger%20Ellis">Rebekah Granger Ellis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Richard%20B.%20Speaker"> Richard B. Speaker</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Pat%20Austin"> Pat Austin</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This study used two psychological scales to examine the level of social and emotional intelligence and moral judgment of over 500 gifted and talented high school students in various academic and creative arts programs in a large metropolitan area in the southeastern United States. For decades, numerous models and programs purporting to encourage socio-affective characteristics of adolescent development have been explored in curriculum theory and design. Socio-affective merges social, emotional, and moral domains. It encompasses interpersonal relations and social behaviors; development and regulation of emotions; personal and gender identity construction; empathy development; moral development, thinking, and judgment. Examining development in these socio-affective domains can provide insight into why some gifted and talented adolescents are not successful in adulthood despite advanced IQ scores. Particularly whether nonintellectual characteristics of gifted and talented individuals, such as emotional, social and moral capabilities, are as advanced as their intellectual abilities and how these are related to each other. Unique characteristics distinguish gifted and talented individuals; these may appear as strengths, but there is the potential for problems to accompany them. Although many thrive in their school environments, some gifted students struggle rather than flourish. In the socio-affective domain, these adolescents face special intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental problems. Gifted individuals’ cognitive, psychological, and emotional development occurs asynchronously, in multidimensional layers at different rates and unevenly across ability levels. Therefore, it is important to examine the long-term effects of participation in various gifted and talented programs on the socio-affective development of gifted and talented adolescents. This quasi-experimental longitudinal study examined students in several gifted and talented education programs (creative arts school, urban charter schools, and suburban public schools) for (1) socio-affective development level and (2) whether a particular gifted and talented program encourages developmental growth. The following research questions guided the study: (1) How do academically and artistically talented gifted 10th and 11th grade students perform on psychometric scales of social and emotional intelligence and moral judgment? Do they differ from their age or grade normative sample? Are their gender differences among gifted students? (2) Does school environment impact 10th and 11th grade gifted and talented students’ socio-affective development? Do gifted adolescents who participate in a particular school gifted program differ in their developmental profiles of social and emotional intelligence and moral judgment? Students’ performances on psychometric instruments were compared over time and by type of program. Participants took pre-, mid-, and post-tests over the course of an academic school year with Defining Issues Test (DIT-2) assessing moral judgment and BarOn EQ-I: YV assessing social and emotional intelligence. Based on these assessments, quantitative differences in growth on psychological scales (individual and school) were examined. Change scores between schools were also compared. If a school showed change, artifacts (culture, curricula, instructional methodology) provided insight as to environmental qualities that produced this difference. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=gifted%20and%20talented%20education" title="gifted and talented education">gifted and talented education</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=moral%20development" title=" moral development"> moral development</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=socio-affective%20development" title=" socio-affective development"> socio-affective development</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=socio-affective%20education" title=" socio-affective education"> socio-affective education</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/81815/impact-of-school-environment-on-socio-affective-development-a-quasi-experimental-longitudinal-study-of-urban-and-suburban-gifted-and-talented-programs" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/81815.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">162</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">32</span> Fast and Non-Invasive Patient-Specific Optimization of Left Ventricle Assist Device Implantation</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Huidan%20Yu">Huidan Yu</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Anurag%20Deb"> Anurag Deb</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Rou%20Chen"> Rou Chen</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=I-Wen%20Wang"> I-Wen Wang</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The use of left ventricle assist devices (LVADs) in patients with heart failure has been a proven and effective therapy for patients with severe end-stage heart failure. Due to the limited availability of suitable donor hearts, LVADs will probably become the alternative solution for patient with heart failure in the near future. While the LVAD is being continuously improved toward enhanced performance, increased device durability, reduced size, a better understanding of implantation management becomes critical in order to achieve better long-term blood supplies and less post-surgical complications such as thrombi generation. Important issues related to the LVAD implantation include the location of outflow grafting (OG), the angle of the OG, the combination between LVAD and native heart pumping, uniform or pulsatile flow at OG, etc. We have hypothesized that an optimal implantation of LVAD is patient specific. To test this hypothesis, we employ a novel in-house computational modeling technique, named InVascular, to conduct a systematic evaluation of cardiac output at aortic arch together with other pertinent hemodynamic quantities for each patient under various implantation scenarios aiming to get an optimal implantation strategy. InVacular is a powerful computational modeling technique that integrates unified mesoscale modeling for both image segmentation and fluid dynamics with the cutting-edge GPU parallel computing. It first segments the aortic artery from patient’s CT image, then seamlessly feeds extracted morphology, together with the velocity wave from Echo Ultrasound image of the same patient, to the computation model to quantify 4-D (time+space) velocity and pressure fields. Using one NVIDIA Tesla K40 GPU card, InVascular completes a computation from CT image to 4-D hemodynamics within 30 minutes. Thus it has the great potential to conduct massive numerical simulation and analysis. The systematic evaluation for one patient includes three OG anastomosis (ascending aorta, descending thoracic aorta, and subclavian artery), three combinations of LVAD and native heart pumping (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3), three angles of OG anastomosis (inclined upward, perpendicular, and inclined downward), and two LVAD inflow conditions (uniform and pulsatile). The optimal LVAD implantation is suggested through a comprehensive analysis of the cardiac output and related hemodynamics from the simulations over the fifty-four scenarios. To confirm the hypothesis, 5 random patient cases will be evaluated. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=graphic%20processing%20unit%20%28GPU%29%20parallel%20computing" title="graphic processing unit (GPU) parallel computing">graphic processing unit (GPU) parallel computing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=left%20ventricle%20assist%20device%20%28LVAD%29" title=" left ventricle assist device (LVAD)"> left ventricle assist device (LVAD)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=lumped-parameter%20model" title=" lumped-parameter model"> lumped-parameter model</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=patient-specific%20computational%20hemodynamics" title=" patient-specific computational hemodynamics "> patient-specific computational hemodynamics </a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/83622/fast-and-non-invasive-patient-specific-optimization-of-left-ventricle-assist-device-implantation" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/83622.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">133</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">31</span> A Review on Cyberchondria Based on Bibliometric Analysis</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Xiaoqing%20Peng">Xiaoqing Peng</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Aijing%20Luo"> Aijing Luo</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Yang%20Chen"> Yang Chen</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: Cyberchondria, as an "emerging risk" accompanied by the information era, is a new abnormal pattern characterized by excessive or repeated online searches for health-related information and escalating health anxiety, which endangers people's physical and mental health and poses a huge threat to public health. Objective: To explore and discuss the research status, hotspots and trends of Cyberchondria. Methods: Based on a total of 77 articles regarding "Cyberchondria" extracted from Web of Science from the beginning till October 2019, the literature trends, countries, institutions, hotspots are analyzed by bibliometric analysis, the concept definition of Cyberchondria, instruments, relevant factors, treatment and intervention are discussed as well. Results: Since "Cyberchondria" was put forward for the first time in 2001, the last two decades witnessed a noticeable increase in the amount of literature, especially during 2014-2019, it quadrupled dramatically at 62 compared with that before 2014 only at 15, which shows that Cyberchondria has become a new theme and hot topic in recent years. The United States was the most active contributor with the largest publication (23), followed by England (11) and Australia (11), while the leading institutions were Baylor University(7) and University of Sydney(7), followed by Florida State University(4) and University of Manchester(4). The WoS categories "Psychiatry/Psychology " and "Computer/ Information Science "were the areas of greatest influence. The concept definition of Cyberchondria is not completely unified in the world, but it is generally considered as an abnormal behavioral pattern and emotional state and has been invoked to refer to the anxiety-amplifying effects of online health-related searches. The first and the most frequently cited scale for measuring the severity of Cyberchondria called “The Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS) ”was developed in 2014, which conceptualized Cyberchondria as a multidimensional construct consisting of compulsion, distress, excessiveness, reassurance, and mistrust of medical professionals which was proved to be not necessary for this construct later. Since then, the Brazilian, German, Turkish, Polish and Chinese versions were subsequently developed, improved and culturally adjusted, while CSS was optimized to a simplified version (CSS-12) in 2019, all of which should be worthy of further verification. The hotspots of Cyberchondria mainly focuses on relevant factors as follows: intolerance of uncertainty, anxiety sensitivity, obsessive-compulsive disorder, internet addition, abnormal illness behavior, Whiteley index, problematic internet use, trying to make clear the role played by “associated factors” and “anxiety-amplifying factors” in the development of Cyberchondria, to better understand the aetiological links and pathways in the relationships between hypochondriasis, health anxiety and online health-related searches. Although the treatment and intervention of Cyberchondria are still in the initial stage of exploration, there are kinds of meaningful attempts to seek effective strategies from different aspects such as online psychological treatment, network technology management, health information literacy improvement and public health service. Conclusion: Research on Cyberchondria is in its infancy but should be deserved more attention. A conceptual consensus on Cyberchondria, a refined assessment tool, prospective studies conducted in various populations, targeted treatments for it would be the main research direction in the near future. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cyberchondria" title="cyberchondria">cyberchondria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=hypochondriasis" title=" hypochondriasis"> hypochondriasis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=health%20anxiety" title=" health anxiety"> health anxiety</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=online%20health-related%20searches" title=" online health-related searches"> online health-related searches</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/117561/a-review-on-cyberchondria-based-on-bibliometric-analysis" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/117561.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">122</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">30</span> Virtual Experiments on Coarse-Grained Soil Using X-Ray CT and Finite Element Analysis</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mohamed%20Ali%20Abdennadher">Mohamed Ali Abdennadher</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Digital rock physics, an emerging field leveraging advanced imaging and numerical techniques, offers a promising approach to investigating the mechanical properties of granular materials without extensive physical experiments. This study focuses on using X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) to capture the three-dimensional (3D) structure of coarse-grained soil at the particle level, combined with finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate the soil's behavior under compression. The primary goal is to establish a reliable virtual testing framework that can replicate laboratory results and offer deeper insights into soil mechanics. The methodology involves acquiring high-resolution CT scans of coarse-grained soil samples to visualize internal particle morphology. These CT images undergo processing through noise reduction, thresholding, and watershed segmentation techniques to isolate individual particles, preparing the data for subsequent analysis. A custom Python script is employed to extract particle shapes and conduct a statistical analysis of particle size distribution. The processed particle data then serves as the basis for creating a finite element model comprising approximately 500 particles subjected to one-dimensional compression. The FEA simulations explore the effects of mesh refinement and friction coefficient on stress distribution at grain contacts. A multi-layer meshing strategy is applied, featuring finer meshes at inter-particle contacts to accurately capture mechanical interactions and coarser meshes within particle interiors to optimize computational efficiency. Despite the known challenges in parallelizing FEA to high core counts, this study demonstrates that an appropriate domain-level parallelization strategy can achieve significant scalability, allowing simulations to extend to very high core counts. The results show a strong correlation between the finite element simulations and laboratory compression test data, validating the effectiveness of the virtual experiment approach. Detailed stress distribution patterns reveal that soil compression behavior is significantly influenced by frictional interactions, with frictional sliding, rotation, and rolling at inter-particle contacts being the primary deformation modes under low to intermediate confining pressures. These findings highlight that CT data analysis combined with numerical simulations offers a robust method for approximating soil behavior, potentially reducing the need for physical laboratory experiments. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=X-Ray%20computed%20tomography" title="X-Ray computed tomography">X-Ray computed tomography</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=finite%20element%20analysis" title=" finite element analysis"> finite element analysis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=soil%20compression%20behavior" title=" soil compression behavior"> soil compression behavior</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=particle%20morphology" title=" particle morphology"> particle morphology</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189864/virtual-experiments-on-coarse-grained-soil-using-x-ray-ct-and-finite-element-analysis" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189864.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">29</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">29</span> Embodied Empowerment: A Design Framework for Augmenting Human Agency in Assistive Technologies</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Melina%20Kopke">Melina Kopke</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jelle%20Van%20Dijk"> Jelle Van Dijk</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Persons with cognitive disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are often dependent on some form of professional support. Recent transformations in Dutch healthcare have spurred institutions to apply new, empowering methods and tools to enable their clients to cope (more) independently in daily life. Assistive Technologies (ATs) seem promising as empowering tools. While ATs can, functionally speaking, help people to perform certain activities without human assistance, we hold that, from a design-theoretical perspective, such technologies often fail to empower in a deeper sense. Most technologies serve either to prescribe or to monitor users’ actions, which in some sense objectifies them, rather than strengthening their agency. This paper proposes that theories of embodied interaction could help formulating a design vision in which interactive assistive devices augment, rather than replace, human agency and thereby add to a persons’ empowerment in daily life settings. It aims to close the gap between empowerment theory and the opportunities provided by assistive technologies, by showing how embodiment and empowerment theory can be applied in practice in the design of new, interactive assistive devices. Taking a Research-through-Design approach, we conducted a case study of designing to support independently living people with ASD with structuring daily activities. In three iterations we interlaced design action, active involvement and prototype evaluations with future end-users and healthcare professionals, and theoretical reflection. Our co-design sessions revealed the issue of handling daily activities being multidimensional. Not having the ability to self-manage one’s daily life has immense consequences on one’s self-image, and also has major effects on the relationship with professional caregivers. Over the course of the project relevant theoretical principles of both embodiment and empowerment theory together with user-insights, informed our design decisions. This resulted in a system of wireless light units that users can program as a reminder for tasks, but also to record and reflect on their actions. The iterative process helped to gradually refine and reframe our growing understanding of what it concretely means for a technology to empower a person in daily life. Drawing on the case study insights we propose a set of concrete design principles that together form what we call the embodied empowerment design framework. The framework includes four main principles: Enabling ‘reflection-in-action’; making information ‘publicly available’ in order to enable co-reflection and social coupling; enabling the implementation of shared reflections into an ‘endurable-external feedback loop’ embedded in the persons familiar ’lifeworld’; and nudging situated actions with self-created action-affordances. In essence, the framework aims for the self-development of a suitable routine, or ‘situated practice’, by building on a growing shared insight of what works for the person. The framework, we propose, may serve as a starting point for AT designers to create truly empowering interactive products. In a set of follow-up projects involving the participation of persons with ASD, Intellectual Disabilities, Dementia and Acquired Brain Injury, the framework will be applied, evaluated and further refined. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=assistive%20technology" title="assistive technology">assistive technology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=design" title=" design"> design</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=embodiment" title=" embodiment"> embodiment</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=empowerment" title=" empowerment"> empowerment</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/69237/embodied-empowerment-a-design-framework-for-augmenting-human-agency-in-assistive-technologies" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/69237.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">278</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">28</span> Control of Belts for Classification of Geometric Figures by Artificial Vision</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Juan%20Sebastian%20Huertas%20Piedrahita">Juan Sebastian Huertas Piedrahita</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jaime%20Arturo%20Lopez%20Duque"> Jaime Arturo Lopez Duque</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Eduardo%20Luis%20Perez%20Londo%C3%B1o"> Eduardo Luis Perez Londoño</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Juli%C3%A1n%20S.%20Rodr%C3%ADguez"> Julián S. Rodríguez</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The process of generating computer vision is called artificial vision. The artificial vision is a branch of artificial intelligence that allows the obtaining, processing, and analysis of any type of information especially the ones obtained through digital images. Actually the artificial vision is used in manufacturing areas for quality control and production, as these processes can be realized through counting algorithms, positioning, and recognition of objects that can be measured by a single camera (or more). On the other hand, the companies use assembly lines formed by conveyor systems with actuators on them for moving pieces from one location to another in their production. These devices must be previously programmed for their good performance and must have a programmed logic routine. Nowadays the production is the main target of every industry, quality, and the fast elaboration of the different stages and processes in the chain of production of any product or service being offered. The principal base of this project is to program a computer that recognizes geometric figures (circle, square, and triangle) through a camera, each one with a different color and link it with a group of conveyor systems to organize the mentioned figures in cubicles, which differ from one another also by having different colors. This project bases on artificial vision, therefore the methodology needed to develop this project must be strict, this one is detailed below: 1. Methodology: 1.1 The software used in this project is QT Creator which is linked with Open CV libraries. Together, these tools perform to realize the respective program to identify colors and forms directly from the camera to the computer. 1.2 Imagery acquisition: To start using the libraries of Open CV is necessary to acquire images, which can be captured by a computer’s web camera or a different specialized camera. 1.3 The recognition of RGB colors is realized by code, crossing the matrices of the captured images and comparing pixels, identifying the primary colors which are red, green, and blue. 1.4 To detect forms it is necessary to realize the segmentation of the images, so the first step is converting the image from RGB to grayscale, to work with the dark tones of the image, then the image is binarized which means having the figure of the image in a white tone with a black background. Finally, we find the contours of the figure in the image to detect the quantity of edges to identify which figure it is. 1.5 After the color and figure have been identified, the program links with the conveyor systems, which through the actuators will classify the figures in their respective cubicles. Conclusions: The Open CV library is a useful tool for projects in which an interface between a computer and the environment is required since the camera obtains external characteristics and realizes any process. With the program for this project any type of assembly line can be optimized because images from the environment can be obtained and the process would be more accurate. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=artificial%20intelligence" title="artificial intelligence">artificial intelligence</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=artificial%20vision" title=" artificial vision"> artificial vision</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=binarized" title=" binarized"> binarized</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=grayscale" title=" grayscale"> grayscale</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=images" title=" images"> images</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=RGB" title=" RGB "> RGB </a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/32096/control-of-belts-for-classification-of-geometric-figures-by-artificial-vision" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/32096.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">378</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">27</span> The Strategic Importance of Technology in the International Production: Beyond the Global Value Chains Approach</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Marcelo%20Pereira%20Introini">Marcelo Pereira Introini</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The global value chains (GVC) approach contributes to a better understanding of the international production organization amid globalization’s second unbundling from the 1970s on. Mainly due to the tools that help to understand the importance of critical competences, technological capabilities, and functions performed by each player, GVC research flourished in recent years, rooted in discussing the possibilities of integration and repositioning along regional and global value chains. Regarding this context, part of the literature endorsed a more optimistic view that engaging in fragmented production networks could represent learning opportunities for developing countries’ firms, since the relationship with transnational corporations could allow them build skills and competences. Increasing recognition that GVCs are based on asymmetric power relations provided another sight about benefits, costs, and development possibilities though. Once leading companies tend to restrict the replication of their technologies and capabilities by their suppliers, alternative strategies beyond the functional specialization, seen as a way to integrate value chains, began to be broadly highlighted. This paper organizes a coherent narrative about the shortcomings of the GVC analytical framework, while recognizing its multidimensional contributions and recent developments. We adopt two different and complementary perspectives to explore the idea of integration in the international production. On one hand, we emphasize obstacles beyond production components, analyzing the role played by intangible assets and intellectual property regimes. On the other hand, we consider the importance of domestic production and innovation systems for technological development. In order to provide a deeper understanding of the restrictions on technological learning of developing countries’ firms, we firstly build from the notion of intellectual monopoly to analyze how flagship companies can prevent subordinated firms from improving their positions in fragmented production networks. Based on intellectual property protection regimes we discuss the increasing asymmetries between these players and the decreasing access of part of them to strategic intangible assets. Second, we debate the role of productive-technological ecosystems and of interactive and systemic technological development processes, as concepts of the Innovation Systems approach. Supporting the idea that not only endogenous advantages are important for international competition of developing countries’ firms, but also that the building of these advantages itself can be a source of technological learning, we focus on local efforts as a crucial element, which is not replaceable for technology imported from abroad. Finally, the paper contributes to the discussion about technological development as a two-dimensional dynamic. If GVC analysis tends to underline a company-based perspective, stressing the learning opportunities associated to GVC integration, historical involvement of national States brings up the debate about technology as a central aspect of interstate disputes. In this sense, technology is seen as part of military modernization before being also used in civil contexts, what presupposes its role for national security and productive autonomy strategies. From this outlook, it is important to consider it as an asset that, incorporated in sophisticated machinery, can be the target of state policies besides the protection provided by intellectual property regimes, such as in export controls and inward-investment restrictions. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=global%20value%20chains" title="global value chains">global value chains</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=innovation%20systems" title=" innovation systems"> innovation systems</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=intellectual%20monopoly" title=" intellectual monopoly"> intellectual monopoly</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=technological%20development" title=" technological development"> technological development</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/150810/the-strategic-importance-of-technology-in-the-international-production-beyond-the-global-value-chains-approach" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/150810.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">81</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">26</span> Planning Railway Assets Renewal with a Multiobjective Approach</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jo%C3%A3o%20Coutinho-Rodrigues">João Coutinho-Rodrigues</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Nuno%20Sousa"> Nuno Sousa</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lu%C3%ADs%20%20Al%C3%A7ada-Almeida"> Luís Alçada-Almeida</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Transportation infrastructure systems are fundamental in modern society and economy. However, they need modernizing, maintaining, and reinforcing interventions which require large investments. In many countries, accumulated intervention delays arise from aging and intense use, being magnified by financial constraints of the past. The decision problem of managing the renewal of large backlogs is common to several types of important transportation infrastructures (e.g., railways, roads). This problem requires considering financial aspects as well as operational constraints under a multidimensional framework. The present research introduces a linear programming multiobjective model for managing railway infrastructure asset renewal. The model aims at minimizing three objectives: (i) yearly investment peak, by evenly spreading investment throughout multiple years; (ii) total cost, which includes extra maintenance costs incurred from renewal backlogs; (iii) priority delays related to work start postponements on the higher priority railway sections. Operational constraints ensure that passenger and freight services are not excessively delayed from having railway line sections under intervention. Achieving a balanced annual investment plan, without compromising the total financial effort or excessively postponing the execution of the priority works, was the motivation for pursuing the research which is now presented. The methodology, inspired by a real case study and tested with real data, reflects aspects of the practice of an infrastructure management company and is generalizable to different types of infrastructure (e.g., railways, highways). It was conceived for treating renewal interventions in infrastructure assets, which is a railway network may be rails, ballasts, sleepers, etc.; while a section is under intervention, trains must run at reduced speed, causing delays in services. The model cannot, therefore, allow for an accumulation of works on the same line, which may cause excessively large delays. Similarly, the lines do not all have the same socio-economic importance or service intensity, making it is necessary to prioritize the sections to be renewed. The model takes these issues into account, and its output is an optimized works schedule for the renewal project translatable in Gantt charts The infrastructure management company provided all the data for the first test case study and validated the parameterization. This case consists of several sections to be renewed, over 5 years and belonging to 17 lines. A large instance was also generated, reflecting a problem of a size similar to the USA railway network (considered the largest one in the world), so it is not expected that considerably larger problems appear in real life; an average of 25 years backlog and ten years of project horizon was considered. Despite the very large increase in the number of decision variables (200 times as large), the computational time cost did not increase very significantly. It is thus expectable that just about any real-life problem can be treated in a modern computer, regardless of size. The trade-off analysis shows that if the decision maker allows some increase in max yearly investment (i.e., degradation of objective ii), solutions improve considerably in the remaining two objectives. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=transport%20infrastructure" title="transport infrastructure">transport infrastructure</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=asset%20renewal" title=" asset renewal"> asset renewal</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=railway%20maintenance" title=" railway maintenance"> railway maintenance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=multiobjective%20modeling" title=" multiobjective modeling"> multiobjective modeling</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/107044/planning-railway-assets-renewal-with-a-multiobjective-approach" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/107044.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">145</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">25</span> The Impact of the Covid-19 Crisis on the Information Behavior in the B2B Buying Process</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Stehr%20Melanie">Stehr Melanie</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The availability of apposite information is essential for the decision-making process of organizational buyers. Due to the constraints of the Covid-19 crisis, information channels that emphasize face-to-face contact (e.g. sales visits, trade shows) have been unavailable, and usage of digitally-driven information channels (e.g. videoconferencing, platforms) has skyrocketed. This paper explores the question in which areas the pandemic induced shift in the use of information channels could be sustainable and in which areas it is a temporary phenomenon. While information and buying behavior in B2C purchases has been regularly studied in the last decade, the last fundamental model of organizational buying behavior in B2B was introduced by Johnston and Lewin (1996) in times before the advent of the internet. Subsequently, research efforts in B2B marketing shifted from organizational buyers and their decision and information behavior to the business relationships between sellers and buyers. This study builds on the extensive literature on situational factors influencing organizational buying and information behavior and uses the economics of information theory as a theoretical framework. The research focuses on the German woodworking industry, which before the Covid-19 crisis was characterized by a rather low level of digitization of information channels. By focusing on an industry with traditional communication structures, a shift in information behavior induced by an exogenous shock is considered a ripe research setting. The study is exploratory in nature. The primary data source is 40 in-depth interviews based on the repertory-grid method. Thus, 120 typical buying situations in the woodworking industry and the information and channels relevant to them are identified. The results are combined into clusters, each of which shows similar information behavior in the procurement process. In the next step, the clusters are analyzed in terms of the post and pre-Covid-19 crisis’ behavior identifying stable and dynamic information behavior aspects. Initial results show that, for example, clusters representing search goods with low risk and complexity suggest a sustainable rise in the use of digitally-driven information channels. However, in clusters containing trust goods with high significance and novelty, an increased return to face-to-face information channels can be expected after the Covid-19 crisis. The results are interesting from both a scientific and a practical point of view. This study is one of the first to apply the economics of information theory to organizational buyers and their decision and information behavior in the digital information age. Especially the focus on the dynamic aspects of information behavior after an exogenous shock might contribute new impulses to theoretical debates related to the economics of information theory. For practitioners - especially suppliers’ marketing managers and intermediaries such as publishers or trade show organizers from the woodworking industry - the study shows wide-ranging starting points for a future-oriented segmentation of their marketing program by highlighting the dynamic and stable preferences of elaborated clusters in the choice of their information channels. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=B2B%20buying%20process" title="B2B buying process">B2B buying process</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=crisis" title=" crisis"> crisis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=economics%20of%20information%20theory" title=" economics of information theory"> economics of information theory</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=information%20channel" title=" information channel"> information channel</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/139127/the-impact-of-the-covid-19-crisis-on-the-information-behavior-in-the-b2b-buying-process" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/139127.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">184</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">24</span> Integrated Mathematical Modeling and Advance Visualization of Magnetic Nanoparticle for Drug Delivery, Drug Release and Effects to Cancer Cell Treatment</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Norma%20Binti%20Alias">Norma Binti Alias</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Che%20Rahim%20Che%20The"> Che Rahim Che The</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Norfarizan%20Mohd%20Said"> Norfarizan Mohd Said</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sakinah%20Abdul%20Hanan"> Sakinah Abdul Hanan</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Akhtar%20Ali"> Akhtar Ali</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper discusses on the transportation of magnetic drug targeting through blood within vessels, tissues and cells. There are three integrated mathematical models to be discussed and analyze the concentration of drug and blood flow through magnetic nanoparticles. The cell therapy brought advancement in the field of nanotechnology to fight against the tumors. The systematic therapeutic effect of Single Cells can reduce the growth of cancer tissue. The process of this nanoscale phenomena system is able to measure and to model, by identifying some parameters and applying fundamental principles of mathematical modeling and simulation. The mathematical modeling of single cell growth depends on three types of cell densities such as proliferative, quiescent and necrotic cells. The aim of this paper is to enhance the simulation of three types of models. The first model represents the transport of drugs by coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) with 3D parabolic type in a cylindrical coordinate system. This model is integrated by Non-Newtonian flow equations, leading to blood liquid flow as the medium for transportation system and the magnetic force on the magnetic nanoparticles. The interaction between the magnetic force on drug with magnetic properties produces induced currents and the applied magnetic field yields forces with tend to move slowly the movement of blood and bring the drug to the cancer cells. The devices of nanoscale allow the drug to discharge the blood vessels and even spread out through the tissue and access to the cancer cells. The second model is the transport of drug nanoparticles from the vascular system to a single cell. The treatment of the vascular system encounters some parameter identification such as magnetic nanoparticle targeted delivery, blood flow, momentum transport, density and viscosity for drug and blood medium, intensity of magnetic fields and the radius of the capillary. Based on two discretization techniques, finite difference method (FDM) and finite element method (FEM), the set of integrated models are transformed into a series of grid points to get a large system of equations. The third model is a single cell density model involving the three sets of first order PDEs equations for proliferating, quiescent and necrotic cells change over time and space in Cartesian coordinate which regulates under different rates of nutrients consumptions. The model presents the proliferative and quiescent cell growth depends on some parameter changes and the necrotic cells emerged as the tumor core. Some numerical schemes for solving the system of equations are compared and analyzed. Simulation and computation of the discretized model are supported by Matlab and C programming languages on a single processing unit. Some numerical results and analysis of the algorithms are presented in terms of informative presentation of tables, multiple graph and multidimensional visualization. As a conclusion, the integrated of three types mathematical modeling and the comparison of numerical performance indicates that the superior tool and analysis for solving the complete set of magnetic drug delivery system which give significant effects on the growth of the targeted cancer cell. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=mathematical%20modeling" title="mathematical modeling">mathematical modeling</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=visualization" title=" visualization"> visualization</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=PDE%20models" title=" PDE models"> PDE models</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=magnetic%20nanoparticle%20drug%20delivery%20model" title=" magnetic nanoparticle drug delivery model"> magnetic nanoparticle drug delivery model</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=drug%20release%20model" title=" drug release model"> drug release model</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=single%20cell%20effects" title=" single cell effects"> single cell effects</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=avascular%20tumor%20growth" title=" avascular tumor growth"> avascular tumor growth</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=numerical%20analysis" title=" numerical analysis"> numerical analysis</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/34967/integrated-mathematical-modeling-and-advance-visualization-of-magnetic-nanoparticle-for-drug-delivery-drug-release-and-effects-to-cancer-cell-treatment" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/34967.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">428</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">23</span> Edge Enhancement Visual Methodology for Fat Amount and Distribution Assessment in Dry-Cured Ham Slices</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Silvia%20Grassi">Silvia Grassi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Stefano%20Schiavon"> Stefano Schiavon</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ernestina%20Casiraghi"> Ernestina Casiraghi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Cristina%20Alamprese"> Cristina Alamprese</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Dry-cured ham is an uncooked meat product particularly appreciated for its peculiar sensory traits among which lipid component plays a key role in defining quality and, consequently, consumers’ acceptability. Usually, fat content and distribution are chemically determined by expensive, time-consuming, and destructive analyses. Moreover, different sensory techniques are applied to assess product conformity to desired standards. In this context, visual systems are getting a foothold in the meat market envisioning more reliable and time-saving assessment of food quality traits. The present work aims at developing a simple but systematic and objective visual methodology to assess the fat amount of dry-cured ham slices, in terms of total, intermuscular and intramuscular fractions. To the aim, 160 slices from 80 PDO dry-cured hams were evaluated by digital image analysis and Soxhlet extraction. RGB images were captured by a flatbed scanner, converted in grey-scale images, and segmented based on intensity histograms as well as on a multi-stage algorithm aimed at edge enhancement. The latter was performed applying the Canny algorithm, which consists of image noise reduction, calculation of the intensity gradient for each image, spurious response removal, actual thresholding on corrected images, and confirmation of strong edge boundaries. The approach allowed for the automatic calculation of total, intermuscular and intramuscular fat fractions as percentages of the total slice area. Linear regression models were run to estimate the relationships between the image analysis results and the chemical data, thus allowing for the prediction of the total, intermuscular and intramuscular fat content by the dry-cured ham images. The goodness of fit of the obtained models was confirmed in terms of coefficient of determination (R²), hypothesis testing and pattern of residuals. Good regression models have been found being 0.73, 0.82, and 0.73 the R2 values for the total fat, the sum of intermuscular and intramuscular fat and the intermuscular fraction, respectively. In conclusion, the edge enhancement visual procedure brought to a good fat segmentation making the simple visual approach for the quantification of the different fat fractions in dry-cured ham slices sufficiently simple, accurate and precise. The presented image analysis approach steers towards the development of instruments that can overcome destructive, tedious and time-consuming chemical determinations. As future perspectives, the results of the proposed image analysis methodology will be compared with those of sensory tests in order to develop a fast grading method of dry-cured hams based on fat distribution. Therefore, the system will be able not only to predict the actual fat content but it will also reflect the visual appearance of samples as perceived by consumers. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=dry-cured%20ham" title="dry-cured ham">dry-cured ham</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=edge%20detection%20algorithm" title=" edge detection algorithm"> edge detection algorithm</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fat%20content" title=" fat content"> fat content</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=image%20analysis" title=" image analysis"> image analysis</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/77399/edge-enhancement-visual-methodology-for-fat-amount-and-distribution-assessment-in-dry-cured-ham-slices" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/77399.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">176</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">22</span> Risk Factors Associated to Low Back Pain among Active Adults: Cross-Sectional Study among Workers in Tunisian Public Hospital</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lamia%20Bouzgarrou">Lamia Bouzgarrou</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Irtyah%20Merchaoui"> Irtyah Merchaoui</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Amira%20Omrane"> Amira Omrane</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Salma%20Kammoun"> Salma Kammoun</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Amine%20Daafa"> Amine Daafa</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Neila%20Chaari"> Neila Chaari</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Backgrounds: Currently, low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent public health problems, which caused severe morbidity among a large portion of the adult population. It is also associated with heavy direct and indirect costs, in particular, related to absenteeism and early retirement. Health care workers are one of most occupational groups concerned by LBP, especially because of biomechanical and psycho-organizational risk factors. Our current study aims to investigate risk factors associated with chronic low back pain among Tunisian caregivers in university-hospitals. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 14 months, with a representative sample of caregivers, matched according to age, sex and work department, in two university-hospitals in Tunisia. Data collection included items related to socio-professional characteristics, the evaluation of the working capacity index (WAI), the occupational stress (Karazek job strain questionnaire); the quality of life (SF12), the musculoskeletal disorders Nordic questionnaire, and the examination of the spine flexibility (distance finger-ground, sit-stand maneuver and equilibrium test). Results: Totally, 293 caregivers were included with a mean age equal to 42.64 ± 11.65 years. A body mass index (BMI) exceeding 30, was noted in 20.82% of cases. Moreover, no regular physical activity was practiced in 51.9% of cases. In contrast, domestic activity equal or exceeding 20 hours per week, was reported by 38.22%. Job strain was noted in 19.79 % of cases and the work capacity was 'low' to 'average' among 27.64% of subjects. During the 12 months previous to the investigation, 65% of caregivers complained of LBP, with pain rated as 'severe' or 'extremely severe' in 54.4% of cases and with a frequency of discomfort exceeding one episode per week in 58.52% of cases. During physical examination, the mean distance finger-ground was 7.10 ± 7.5cm. Caregivers assigned to 'high workload' services had the highest prevalence of LBP (77.4%) compared to other categories of hospital services, with no statistically significant relationship (P = 0.125). LBP prevalence was statistically correlated with female gender (p = 0.01) and impaired work capacity (p < 10⁻³). Moreover, the increase of the distance finger-ground was statistically associated with LBP (p = 0.05), advanced age (p < 10⁻³), professional seniority (p < 10⁻³) and the BMI ≥ 25 (p = 0.001). Furthermore, others physical tests of spine flexibility were underperformed among LBP suffering workers with a statistically significant difference (sit-stand maneuver (p = 0.03); equilibrium test (p = 0.01)). According to the multivariate analysis, only the domestic activity exceeding 20H/week, the degraded quality of physical life, and the presence of neck pain were significantly corelated to LBP. The final model explains 36.7% of the variability of this complaint. Conclusion: Our results highlighted the elevate prevalence of LBP among caregivers in Tunisian public hospital and identified both professional and individual predisposing factors. The preliminary analysis supports the necessity of a multidimensional approach to prevent this critical occupational and public health problem. The preventive strategy should be based both on the improvement of working conditions, and also on lifestyle modifications, and reinforcement of healthy behaviors in these active populations. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=health%20care%20workers" title="health care workers">health care workers</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=low%20back%20pain" title=" low back pain"> low back pain</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=prevention" title=" prevention"> prevention</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=risk%20factor" title=" risk factor"> risk factor</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/96458/risk-factors-associated-to-low-back-pain-among-active-adults-cross-sectional-study-among-workers-in-tunisian-public-hospital" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/96458.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">153</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">21</span> Lake Water Surface Variations and Its Influencing Factors in Tibetan Plateau in Recent 10 Years</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Shanlong%20Lu">Shanlong Lu</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jiming%20Jin"> Jiming Jin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Xiaochun%20Wang"> Xiaochun Wang</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The Tibetan Plateau has the largest number of inland lakes with the highest elevation on the planet. These massive and large lakes are mostly in natural state and are less affected by human activities. Their shrinking or expansion can truly reflect regional climate and environmental changes and are sensitive indicators of global climate change. However, due to the sparsely populated nature of the plateau and the poor natural conditions, it is difficult to effectively obtain the change data of the lake, which has affected people's understanding of the temporal and spatial processes of lake water changes and their influencing factors. By using the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) MOD09Q1 surface reflectance images as basic data, this study produced the 8-day lake water surface data set of the Tibetan Plateau from 2000 to 2012 at 250 m spatial resolution, with a lake water surface extraction method of combined with lake water surface boundary buffer analyzing and lake by lake segmentation threshold determining. Then based on the dataset, the lake water surface variations and their influencing factors were analyzed, by using 4 typical natural geographical zones of Eastern Qinghai and Qilian, Southern Qinghai, Qiangtang, and Southern Tibet, and the watersheds of the top 10 lakes of Qinghai, Siling Co, Namco, Zhari NamCo, Tangra Yumco, Ngoring, UlanUla, Yamdrok Tso, Har and Gyaring as the analysis units. The accuracy analysis indicate that compared with water surface data of the 134 sample lakes extracted from the 30 m Landsat TM (Thematic Mapper ) images, the average overall accuracy of the lake water surface data set is 91.81% with average commission and omission error of 3.26% and 5.38%; the results also show strong linear (R2=0.9991) correlation with the global MODIS water mask dataset with overall accuracy of 86.30%; and the lake area difference between the Second National Lake Survey and this study is only 4.74%, respectively. This study provides reliable dataset for the lake change research of the plateau in the recent decade. The change trends and influencing factors analysis indicate that the total water surface area of lakes in the plateau showed overall increases, but only lakes with areas larger than 10 km2 had statistically significant increases. Furthermore, lakes with area larger than 100 km2 experienced an abrupt change in 2005. In addition, the annual average precipitation of Southern Tibet and Southern Qinghai experienced significant increasing and decreasing trends, and corresponding abrupt changes in 2004 and 2006, respectively. The annual average temperature of Southern Tibet and Qiangtang showed a significant increasing trend with an abrupt change in 2004. The major reason for the lake water surface variation in Eastern Qinghai and Qilian, Southern Qinghai and Southern Tibet is the changes of precipitation, and that for Qiangtang is the temperature variations. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=lake%20water%20surface%20variation" title="lake water surface variation">lake water surface variation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=MODIS%20MOD09Q1" title=" MODIS MOD09Q1"> MODIS MOD09Q1</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=remote%20sensing" title=" remote sensing"> remote sensing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Tibetan%20Plateau" title=" Tibetan Plateau"> Tibetan Plateau</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/71121/lake-water-surface-variations-and-its-influencing-factors-in-tibetan-plateau-in-recent-10-years" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/71121.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">231</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">20</span> Electrophysiological Correlates of Statistical Learning in Children with and without Developmental Language Disorder</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ana%20Paula%20Soares">Ana Paula Soares</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Alexandrina%20Lages"> Alexandrina Lages</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Helena%20Oliveira"> Helena Oliveira</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Francisco-Javier%20Guti%C3%A9rrez-Dom%C3%ADnguez"> Francisco-Javier Gutiérrez-Domínguez</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Marisa%20Lousada"> Marisa Lousada</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> From an early age, exposure to a spoken language allows us to implicitly capture the structure underlying the succession of the speech sounds in that language and to segment it into meaningful units (words). Statistical learning (SL), i.e., the ability to pick up patterns in the sensory environment even without intention or consciousness of doing it, is thus assumed to play a central role in the acquisition of the rule-governed aspects of language and possibly to lie behind the language difficulties exhibited by children with development language disorder (DLD). The research conducted so far has, however, led to inconsistent results, which might stem from the behavioral tasks used to test SL. In a classic SL experiment, participants are first exposed to a continuous stream (e.g., syllables) in which, unbeknownst to the participants, stimuli are grouped into triplets that always appear together in the stream (e.g., ‘tokibu’, ‘tipolu’), with no pauses between each other (e.g., ‘tokibutipolugopilatokibu’) and without any information regarding the task or the stimuli. Following exposure, SL is assessed by asking participants to discriminate between triplets previously presented (‘tokibu’) from new sequences never presented together during exposure (‘kipopi’), i.e., to perform a two-alternative-forced-choice (2-AFC) task. Despite the widespread use of the 2-AFC to test SL, it has come under increasing criticism as it is an offline post-learning task that only assesses the result of the learning that had occurred during the previous exposure phase and that might be affected by other factors beyond the computation of regularities embedded in the input, typically the likelihood two syllables occurring together, a statistic known as transitional probability (TP). One solution to overcome these limitations is to assess SL as exposure to the stream unfolds using online techniques such as event-related potentials (ERP) that is highly sensitive to the time-course of the learning in the brain. Here we collected ERPs to examine the neurofunctional correlates of SL in preschool children with DLD, and chronological-age typical language development (TLD) controls who were exposed to an auditory stream in which eight three-syllable nonsense words, four of which presenting high-TPs and the other four low-TPs, to further analyze whether the ability of DLD and TLD children to extract-word-like units from the steam was modulated by words’ predictability. Moreover, to ascertain if the previous knowledge of the to-be-learned-regularities affected the neural responses to high- and low-TP words, children performed the auditory SL task, firstly, under implicit, and, subsequently, under explicit conditions. Although behavioral evidence of SL was not obtained in either group, the neural responses elicited during the exposure phases of the SL tasks differentiated children with DLD from children with TLD. Specifically, the results indicated that only children from the TDL group showed neural evidence of SL, particularly in the SL task performed under explicit conditions, firstly, for the low-TP, and, subsequently, for the high-TP ‘words’. Taken together, these findings support the view that children with DLD showed deficits in the extraction of the regularities embedded in the auditory input which might underlie the language difficulties. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=development%20language%20disorder" title="development language disorder">development language disorder</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=statistical%20learning" title=" statistical learning"> statistical learning</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=transitional%20probabilities" title=" transitional probabilities"> transitional probabilities</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=word%20segmentation" title=" word segmentation"> word segmentation</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/138673/electrophysiological-correlates-of-statistical-learning-in-children-with-and-without-developmental-language-disorder" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/138673.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">188</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">19</span> Detection of Curvilinear Structure via Recursive Anisotropic Diffusion</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sardorbek%20Numonov">Sardorbek Numonov</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Hyohun%20Kim"> Hyohun Kim</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Dongwha%20Shin"> Dongwha Shin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Yeonseok%20Kim"> Yeonseok Kim</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ji-Su%20Ahn"> Ji-Su Ahn</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Dongeun%20Choi"> Dongeun Choi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Byung-Woo%20Hong"> Byung-Woo Hong</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The detection of curvilinear structures often plays an important role in the analysis of images. In particular, it is considered as a crucial step for the diagnosis of chronic respiratory diseases to localize the fissures in chest CT imagery where the lung is divided into five lobes by the fissures that are characterized by linear features in appearance. However, the characteristic linear features for the fissures are often shown to be subtle due to the high intensity variability, pathological deformation or image noise involved in the imaging procedure, which leads to the uncertainty in the quantification of anatomical or functional properties of the lung. Thus, it is desired to enhance the linear features present in the chest CT images so that the distinctiveness in the delineation of the lobe is improved. We propose a recursive diffusion process that prefers coherent features based on the analysis of structure tensor in an anisotropic manner. The local image features associated with certain scales and directions can be characterized by the eigenanalysis of the structure tensor that is often regularized via isotropic diffusion filters. However, the isotropic diffusion filters involved in the computation of the structure tensor generally blur geometrically significant structure of the features leading to the degradation of the characteristic power in the feature space. Thus, it is required to take into consideration of local structure of the feature in scale and direction when computing the structure tensor. We apply an anisotropic diffusion in consideration of scale and direction of the features in the computation of the structure tensor that subsequently provides the geometrical structure of the features by its eigenanalysis that determines the shape of the anisotropic diffusion kernel. The recursive application of the anisotropic diffusion with the kernel the shape of which is derived from the structure tensor leading to the anisotropic scale-space where the geometrical features are preserved via the eigenanalysis of the structure tensor computed from the diffused image. The recursive interaction between the anisotropic diffusion based on the geometry-driven kernels and the computation of the structure tensor that determines the shape of the diffusion kernels yields a scale-space where geometrical properties of the image structure are effectively characterized. We apply our recursive anisotropic diffusion algorithm to the detection of curvilinear structure in the chest CT imagery where the fissures present curvilinear features and define the boundary of lobes. It is shown that our algorithm yields precise detection of the fissures while overcoming the subtlety in defining the characteristic linear features. The quantitative evaluation demonstrates the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm for the detection of fissures in the chest CT in terms of the false positive and the true positive measures. The receiver operating characteristic curves indicate the potential of our algorithm as a segmentation tool in the clinical environment. This work was supported by the MISP(Ministry of Science and ICT), Korea, under the National Program for Excellence in SW (20170001000011001) supervised by the IITP(Institute for Information and Communications Technology Promotion). <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=anisotropic%20diffusion" title="anisotropic diffusion">anisotropic diffusion</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=chest%20CT%20imagery" title=" chest CT imagery"> chest CT imagery</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=chronic%20respiratory%20disease" title=" chronic respiratory disease"> chronic respiratory disease</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=curvilinear%20structure" title=" curvilinear structure"> curvilinear structure</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fissure%20detection" title=" fissure detection"> fissure detection</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=structure%20tensor" title=" structure tensor"> structure tensor</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/75801/detection-of-curvilinear-structure-via-recursive-anisotropic-diffusion" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/75801.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">232</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">18</span> Person-Centered Thinking as a Fundamental Approach to Improve Quality of Life</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Christiane%20H.%20Kellner">Christiane H. Kellner</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sarah%20Reker"> Sarah Reker</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The UN-Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Germany also ratified, postulates the necessity of user-centred design, especially when it comes to evaluating the individual needs and wishes of all citizens. Therefore, a multidimensional approach is required. Based on this insight, the structure of the town-like centre in Schönbrunn - a large residential complex and service provider for persons with disabilities in the outskirts of Munich - will be remodelled to open up the community to all people as well as transform social space. This strategy should lead to more equal opportunities and open the way for a much more diverse community. The research project “Index for participation development and quality of life for persons with disabilities” (TeLe-Index, 2014-2016), which is anchored at the Technische Universität München in Munich and at the Franziskuswerk Schönbrunn supports this transformation process called “Vision 2030”. In this context, we have provided academic supervision and support for three projects (the construction of a new school, inclusive housing for children and teenagers with disabilities and the professionalization of employees using person-centred planning). Since we cannot present all the issues of the umbrella-project within the conference framework, we will be focusing on one sub-project more in-depth, namely “The Person-Centred Think Tank” [Arbeitskreis Personenzentriertes Denken; PZD]. In the context of person-centred thinking (PCT), persons with disabilities are encouraged to (re)gain or retain control of their lives through the development of new choice options and the validation of individual lifestyles. PCT should thus foster and support both participation and quality of life. The project aims to establish PCT as a fundamental approach for both employees and persons with disabilities in the institution through in-house training for the staff and, subsequently, training for users. Hence, for the academic support and supervision team, the questions arising from this venture can be summed up as follows: (1) has PCT already gained a foothold at the Franziskuswerk Schönbrunn? And (2) how does it affect the interaction with persons with disabilities and how does it influence the latter’s everyday life? According to the holistic approach described above, the target groups for this study are both the staff and the users of the institution. Initially, we planned to implement the group discussion method for both target-groups. However, in the course of a pretest with persons with intellectual disabilities, it became clear that this type of interview, with hardly any external structuring, provided only limited feedback. In contrast, when the discussions were moderated, there was more interaction and dialogue between the interlocutors. Therefore, for this target-group, we introduced structured group interviews. The insights we have obtained until now will enable us to present the intermediary results of our evaluation. We analysed and evaluated the group interviews and discussions with the help of qualitative content analysis according to Mayring in order to obtain information about users’ quality of life. We sorted out the statements relating to quality of life obtained during the group interviews into three dimensions: subjective wellbeing, self-determination and participation. Nevertheless, the majority of statements were related to subjective wellbeing and self-determination. Thus, especially the limited feedback on participation clearly demonstrates that the lives of most users do not take place beyond the confines of the institution. A number of statements highlighted the fact that PCT is anchored in the everyday interactions within the groups. However, the implementation and fostering of PCT on a broader level could not be detected and thus remain further aims of the project. The additional interviews we have planned should validate the results obtained until now and open up new perspectives. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=person-centered%20thinking" title="person-centered thinking">person-centered thinking</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=research%20with%20persons%20with%20disabilities" title=" research with persons with disabilities"> research with persons with disabilities</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=residential%20complex%20and%20service%20provider" title=" residential complex and service provider"> residential complex and service provider</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=participation" title=" participation"> participation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=self-determination." title=" self-determination. "> self-determination. </a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/37380/person-centered-thinking-as-a-fundamental-approach-to-improve-quality-of-life" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/37380.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">323</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">17</span> Segmentation along the Strike-slip Fault System of the Chotts Belt, Southern Tunisia</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Abdelkader%20Soumaya">Abdelkader Soumaya</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Aymen%20Arfaoui"> Aymen Arfaoui</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Noureddine%20Ben%20Ayed"> Noureddine Ben Ayed</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ali%20Kadri"> Ali Kadri</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The Chotts belt represents the southernmost folded structure in the Tunisian Atlas domain. It is dominated by inherited deep extensional E-W trending fault zones, which are reactivated as strike-slip faults during the Cenozoic compression. By examining the geological maps at different scales and based on the fieldwork data, we propose new structural interpretations for the geometries and fault kinematics in the Chotts chain. A set of ENE-WSW right-lateral en echelon folds, with curved shapes and steeply inclined southern limbs, is visible in the map view of this belt. These asymmetric tight anticlines are affected by E-W trending fault segments linked by local bends and stepovers. The revealed kinematic indicators along one of these E-W striated faults (Tafferna segment), such as breccias and gently inclined slickenlines (N094, 80N, 15°W pitch angles), show direct evidence of dextral strike-slip movement. The calculated stress tensors from corresponding faults slip data reveal an overall strike-slip tectonic regime with reverse component and NW-trending sub-horizontal σ1 axis ranking between N130 to N150. From west to east, we distinguished several types of structures along the segmented dextral fault system of the Chotts Range. The NE-SW striking fold-thrust belt (~25 km-long) between two continuously linked E-W fault segments (NW of Tozeur town) has been suggested as a local restraining bend. The central part of the Chotts chain is occupied by the ENE-striking Ksar Asker anticlines (Taferna, Torrich, and Sif Laham), which are truncated by a set of E-W strike-slip fault segments. Further east, the fault segments of Hachichina and Sif Laham connected across the NW-verging asymmetric fold-thrust system of Bir Oum Ali, which can be interpreted as a left-stepping contractional bend (~20 km-long). The oriental part of the Chotts belt corresponds to an array of subparallel E-W oriented fault segments (i.e., Beidha, Bouloufa, El Haidoudi-Zemlet El Beidha) with similar lengths (around 10 km). Each of these individual separated segments is associated with curved ENE-trending en echelon right-stepping anticlines. These folds are affected by a set of conjugate R and R′ shear-type faults indicating a dextral strike-lip motion. In addition, the relay zones between these E-W overstepping fault segments define local releasing stepovers dominated by NW-SE subsidiary faults. Finally, the Chotts chain provides well-exposed examples of strike-slip tectonics along E-W distributed fault segments. Each fault zone shows a typical strike-slip architecture, including parallel fault segments connecting via local stepovers or bends. Our new structural interpretations for this region reveal a great influence of the E-W deep fault segments on regional tectonic deformations and stress field during the Cenozoic shortening. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=chotts%20belt" title="chotts belt">chotts belt</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=tunisian%20atlas" title=" tunisian atlas"> tunisian atlas</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=strike-slip%20fault" title=" strike-slip fault"> strike-slip fault</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=stepovers" title=" stepovers"> stepovers</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fault%20segments" title=" fault segments"> fault segments</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/168428/segmentation-along-the-strike-slip-fault-system-of-the-chotts-belt-southern-tunisia" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/168428.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">69</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">16</span> Geodynamic Evolution of the Tunisian Dorsal Backland (Central Mediterranean) from the Cenozoic to Present</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Aymen%20Arfaoui">Aymen Arfaoui</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Abdelkader%20Soumaya"> Abdelkader Soumaya</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Noureddine%20Ben%20Ayed"> Noureddine Ben Ayed</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The study region is located in the Tunisian Dorsal Backland (Central Mediterranean), which is the easternmost part of the Saharan Atlas mountain range, trending southwest-northeast. Based on our fieldwork, seismic tomography images, seismicity, and previous studies, we propose an interpretation of the relationship between the surface deformation and fault kinematics in the study area and the internal dynamic processes acting in the Central Mediterranean from the Cenozoic to the present. The subduction and dynamics of internal forces beneath the complicated Maghrebides mobile belt have an impact on the Tertiary and Quaternary tectonic regimes in the Pelagian and Atlassic foreland that is part of our study region. The left lateral reactivation of the major "Tunisian N-S Axis fault" and the development of a compressional relay between the Hammamet Korbous and Messella-Ressas faults are possibly a result of tectonic stresses due to the slab roll-back following the Africa/Eurasia convergence. After the slab segmentation and its eastward migration (5–4 Ma) and the formation of the Strait of Sicily "rift zone" further east, a transtensional tectonic regime has been installed in this area. According to seismic tomography images, the STEP fault of the "North-South Axis" at Hammamet-Korbous coincides with the western edge of the "Slab windows" of the Sicilian Channel and the eastern boundary of the positive anomalies attributed to the residual Slab of Tunisia. On the other hand, significant E-W Plio-Quaternary tectonic activity may be observed along the eastern portion of this STEP fault system in the Grombalia zone as a result of recent vertical lithospheric motion in response to the lateral slab migration eastward to Sicily Channel. According to SKS fast splitting directions, the upper mantle flow pattern beneath Tunisian Dorsal is parallel to the NE-SW to E-W orientation of the Shmin identified in the study area, similar to the Plio-Quaternary extensional orientation in the Central Mediterranean. Additionally, the removal of the lithosphere and the subsequent uplift of the sub-lithospheric mantle beneath the topographic highs of the Dorsal and its surroundings may be the cause of the dominant extensional to transtensional Quaternary regime. The occurrence of strike-slip and extensional seismic events in the Pelagian block reveals that the regional transtensional tectonic regime persists today. Finally, we believe that the geodynamic history of the study area since the Cenozoic is primarily influenced by the preexisting weak zones, the African slab detachment, and the upper mantle flow pattern in the central Mediterranean. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Tunisia" title="Tunisia">Tunisia</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=lithospheric%20discontinuity%20%28STEP%20fault%29" title=" lithospheric discontinuity (STEP fault)"> lithospheric discontinuity (STEP fault)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=geodynamic%20evolution" title=" geodynamic evolution"> geodynamic evolution</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Tunisian%20dorsal%20backland" title=" Tunisian dorsal backland"> Tunisian dorsal backland</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=strike-slip%20fault" title=" strike-slip fault"> strike-slip fault</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=seismic%20tomography" title=" seismic tomography"> seismic tomography</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=seismicity" title=" seismicity"> seismicity</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=central%20Mediterranean" title=" central Mediterranean"> central Mediterranean</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/161121/geodynamic-evolution-of-the-tunisian-dorsal-backland-central-mediterranean-from-the-cenozoic-to-present" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/161121.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">79</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">15</span> An Exploratory Factor and Cluster Analysis of the Willingness to Pay for Last Mile Delivery</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Maximilian%20Engelhardt">Maximilian Engelhardt</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Stephan%20Seeck"> Stephan Seeck</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The COVID-19 pandemic is accelerating the already growing field of e-commerce. The resulting urban freight transport volume leads to traffic and negative environmental impact. Furthermore, the service level of parcel logistics service provider is lacking far behind the expectations of consumer. These challenges can be solved by radically reorganize the urban last mile distribution structure: parcels could be consolidated in a micro hub within the inner city and delivered within time windows by cargo bike. This approach leads to a significant improvement of consumer satisfaction with their overall delivery experience. However, this approach also leads to significantly increased costs per parcel. While there is a relevant share of online shoppers that are willing to pay for such a delivery service there are no deeper insights about this target group available in the literature. Being aware of the importance of knowing target groups for businesses, the aim of this paper is to elaborate the most important factors that determine the willingness to pay for sustainable and service-oriented parcel delivery (factor analysis) and to derive customer segments (cluster analysis). In order to answer those questions, a data set is analyzed using quantitative methods of multivariate statistics. The data set was generated via an online survey in September and October 2020 within the five largest cities in Germany (n = 1.071). The data set contains socio-demographic, living-related and value-related variables, e.g. age, income, city, living situation and willingness to pay. In a prior work of the author, the data was analyzed applying descriptive and inference statistical methods that only provided limited insights regarding the above-mentioned research questions. The analysis in an exploratory way using factor and cluster analysis promise deeper insights of relevant influencing factors and segments for user behavior of the mentioned parcel delivery concept. The analysis model is built and implemented with help of the statistical software language R. The data analysis is currently performed and will be completed in December 2021. It is expected that the results will show the most relevant factors that are determining user behavior of sustainable and service-oriented parcel deliveries (e.g. age, current service experience, willingness to pay) and give deeper insights in characteristics that describe the segments that are more or less willing to pay for a better parcel delivery service. Based on the expected results, relevant implications and conclusions can be derived for startups that are about to change the way parcels are delivered: more customer-orientated by time window-delivery and parcel consolidation, more environmental-friendly by cargo bike. The results will give detailed insights regarding their target groups of parcel recipients. Further research can be conducted by exploring alternative revenue models (beyond the parcel recipient) that could compensate the additional costs, e.g. online-shops that increase their service-level or municipalities that reduce traffic on their streets. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=customer%20segmentation" title="customer segmentation">customer segmentation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=e-commerce" title=" e-commerce"> e-commerce</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=last%20mile%20delivery" title=" last mile delivery"> last mile delivery</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=parcel%20service" title=" parcel service"> parcel service</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=urban%20logistics" title=" urban logistics"> urban logistics</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=willingness-to-pay" title=" willingness-to-pay"> willingness-to-pay</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/137949/an-exploratory-factor-and-cluster-analysis-of-the-willingness-to-pay-for-last-mile-delivery" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/137949.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">107</span> </span> </div> </div> <ul class="pagination"> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=multidimensional%20segmentation&page=23" rel="prev">&lsaquo;</a></li> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=multidimensional%20segmentation&page=1">1</a></li> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" 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