Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología - Serie de Conferencias
Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología - Serie de Conferencias reabre la recepción de envíos, por favor visite nuestra página de envíos. Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología - Serie de Conferencias reopens the reception of submissions, please visit our submissions page.
The article is distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Unless otherwise stated, associated published material is distributed under the same licence.
University Education 5.0: Intelligent Models for Optimizing Learning and Academic Management
The study examined the impact of artificial intelligence–based intelligent models on learning and academic management in higher education institutions, using a descriptive–correlational quantitative approach applied to a sample of 182 participants, including students, faculty, and administrative staff. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, institutional analytics, and documentary records. The findings revealed significant improvements in academic performance, including increased approval rates, reduced dropout, and greater learning personalization. Administrative processes also showed marked optimization, with reductions in processing times, automation of operational tasks, and enhanced student support. Learning analytics techniques identified interaction patterns associated with performance gains and increased teacher feedback. Overall satisfaction reached high levels, confirming positive acceptance of intelligent models within the university environment. These results indicate that AI strengthened institutional efficiency and improved the educational experience, although challenges related to technological infrastructure and digital literacy persist.
Copyright (c) 2025 Francisco Javier Santini Rodriguez, Graciela Mamani Torres, Ligia Paola Herrera Murillo, Santiago Tamayo Benavides (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digital Transparency at Risk: An Empirical Assessment of Usability, Accessibility, and Regulatory Compliance in the Web Portals of Ecuador’s Provincial Decentralised Autonomous Governments (GADPE)
This study examines the level of accessibility, usability, and regulatory compliance of the web portals of Ecuador’s Provincial Decentralised Autonomous Governments (GADPE) to determine whether these dimensions are related to compliance with the Organic Law on Transparency and Access to Public Information (LOTAIP). A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining automated evaluation and manual review, using TAW 3,1 for accessibility, the Sirius Model and Prometheus 2,0 for usability, and a structured checklist for regulatory compliance. Results show low accessibility (17 %), relatively uniform usability (70 %), and predominantly partial compliance with LOTAIP (1,08), revealing significant gaps between the legal requirements and the information actually published. The Mann–Whitney U test confirmed no significant differences in accessibility (p=0,115) or usability (p=0,976) between compliant and non-compliant groups, indicating that digital transparency does not depend on the technical quality of portals but rather on institutional, administrative, and governance factors. The study concludes that digitalisation alone does not ensure transparency; therefore, stronger oversight mechanisms, enhanced technical capacities, and improved document management processes are required to guarantee citizens’ effective and timely access to public information.
Copyright (c) 2025 Andrés Antonio Vélez Luna, Carmen del Rocío Monedero Morales (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Higher education 5.0: AI-based strategies for transforming the university ecosystem
The incorporation of artificial intelligence technologies became a central element in the evolution of higher education institutions in Latin America, particularly under the Higher Education 5.0 paradigm, which promoted more automated, flexible, and learner-centered academic ecosystems. In this context, the study aimed to analyze the relationship between AI-based strategies and the transformation of the university ecosystem, identifying the practices that generated the greatest impact on operational efficiency, academic performance, and stakeholder satisfaction. A mixed-methods approach was applied: in the quantitative component, 600 students were surveyed using stratified sampling by country and disciplinary area; in the qualitative component, semi-structured interviews were conducted with faculty members from different Latin American institutions through the Zoom platform. The results showed that students positively valued AI tools for their contribution to immediate feedback, personalized learning, and optimization of academic procedures, while faculty members perceived improvements in classroom management, continuous assessment, and the dynamization of pedagogical practices. Likewise, barriers related to technological infrastructure, digital competencies, and ethical concerns regarding privacy and algorithmic governance were identified. Overall, AI consolidated itself as a transformative agent with strong potential to support the institutional transition toward 5.0 educational models.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hugo Efraín Hidalgo Hidalgo, Patricia Geovanna Guevara Córdova, Luis Stalin López Telenchana, Jefferson Olimpo Gutierrez Bastidas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Clinical Outcomes and Complications of Orthopedic Surgical Interventions in Adult Patients
Introduction: Orthopedic surgery is essential for managing trauma and degenerative conditions. Despite technical advances, postoperative complications like infection and delayed union remain significant challenges, impacting patient outcomes. Objective: To evaluate clinical outcomes, complication rates, and associated factors in adults undergoing orthopedic surgery at a tertiary care hospital over a four-year period. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 120 patients at the "Dr. Miguel Enríquez" Clinical Surgical Hospital, Havana, Cuba (2020-2024). Patients were stratified by procedure type (trauma vs. elective), surgical approach, and comorbidities. Data collected included demographics, risk factors, intraoperative parameters, postoperative complications, hospital stay, and functional outcomes at discharge and six months. Statistical analyses identified predictors of complications. Results: The cohort's mean age was 54±16 years, with 52% males. Trauma-related surgeries accounted for 57% of cases. The overall complication rate was 18%, with surgical site infection (6%) and delayed union (5%) being most frequent. The mean hospital stay was 8±4 days. Functional recovery scores showed significant improvement at the six-month follow-up (p<0.01). Conclusions: Orthopedic surgeries are associated with favorable functional outcomes, though complications persist. Patient-specific factors, surgical complexity, and comorbidities are key determinants of risk. An individualized approach to perioperative management is crucial to minimizing adverse events and optimizing care.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amelia Alarcón Rivero , Deborah Cabrera Rodríguez , Marlon Carbonell González , Rosali Santiago Roibal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Characterization of the Health Status of 49 Families from the "Luis Carbó" Polyclinic, Havana
Introduction: Among the fundamental activities carried out by family physicians and nurses are health registration and the analysis of the health situation (AHS), which aims to identify health problems along with their causes and consequences for individuals, families, and the community as a whole, in order to develop actions that contribute to their solution. Objective: To characterize the health status of 150 individuals belonging to Family Doctor's Office #13 of the "Luis Carbó" Teaching Polyclinic. Methods: An observational, analytical, and retrospective study with an epidemiological approach was conducted at Family Doctor's Office No. 13 (FDO #13), "Luis Carbó" Polyclinic, in the municipality of San Miguel de Padrón, Havana, during the period between March and April 2025. Results: An aging population was found, with morbidity primarily due to non-communicable chronic diseases. Risk factors and the influences of socioeconomic conditions predominated. Strengths were identified in the compliance with some health programs. Conclusions: The AHS constitutes an example of the highest degree of community participation to improve population health. This approach is an important instrument in the work of the basic health team.
Copyright (c) 2025 Deborah Cabrera Rodríguez , Marlon Carbonell González , Rosali Santiago Roibal , Stefano Chiappini Zayas , Lisbel Garzón Cutiño (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Educational Innovation 5.0: emerging trends to transform higher education in the digital age
The rapid digital transformation of higher education in Latin America created the need to understand how emerging Educational Innovation 5.0 trends were incorporated within academic environments characterized by technological and structural limitations. The general objective of this study was to analyze the integration of these trends in universities and their impact on learning quality, student engagement, and institutional management. A mixed empirical methodology was applied, combining a structured Likert-scale questionnaire administered to 800 students and semi-structured interviews conducted with 250 faculty members experienced in innovative teaching practices. The questionnaire, adapted from internationally validated models, assessed technology adoption, digital competencies, perceived barriers, and the educational value of 5.0 tools using pretest and posttest measurements. Qualitative data were processed using SPSS Text Analytics to identify thematic categories, code frequencies, and co-occurrence relationships. Results indicated that pretest responses reflected low to moderate levels of technological adoption, while the posttest demonstrated substantial improvements in the use of intelligent platforms, positive perceptions of AI-based learning tools, and strengthened digital competencies. Faculty interviews confirmed the pedagogical value of emerging technologies but highlighted persistent challenges related to infrastructure, continuous training, and institutional support. Overall, the findings demonstrated that Educational Innovation 5.0 generated significant improvements when supported by robust organizational strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wilson Angel Gutiérrez Rodríguez, María Teresa Beltrán Arcos , Alba Minoska Arcos Ribadeneira , Karen Lisseth Castro Vargas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Low versus High PEEP Strategies on Respiratory Mechanics and Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Intensive Care Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Introduction: The optimal level of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory failure remains debated. High PEEP may enhance alveolar recruitment and oxygenation but increase plateau and driving pressures, risking ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Conversely, low PEEP may reduce overdistension but promote alveolar collapse and hypoxemia. Understanding how PEEP strategies affect respiratory mechanics and outcomes is crucial for individualized ventilator management. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the intensive care unit of Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Miguel Enríquez, Havana, Cuba, between January 2021 and January 2022. Thirty adult patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation for ≥48 hours were allocated to a low PEEP group (8–12 cmH₂O, n = 15) or a high PEEP group (15–18 cmH₂O, n = 15). Data collected included respiratory mechanics (PaO₂/FiO₂, static compliance, plateau and driving pressures), hemodynamics (mean arterial pressure, heart rate, vasopressor use), and clinical outcomes (duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay, 28-day mortality, barotrauma, ventilator-associated pneumonia). Results: Among 30 patients, high PEEP improved oxygenation compared with low PEEP (PaO₂/FiO₂ 218 ± 10 vs 170 ± 38 mmHg; p < 0.01). Plateau (28 ± 4 vs 21 ± 3 cmH₂O; p < 0.001) and driving pressures (15 ± 3 vs 11 ± 2 cmH₂O; p < 0.001) were higher in the high PEEP group, whereas static compliance was similar (36 ± 7 vs 38 ± 6 mL/cmH₂O; p = 0.34). Hemodynamics and major outcomes were comparable. Barotrauma occurred in two patients in the high PEEP group and in none in the low PEEP group. Conclusion: High PEEP improves oxygenation but increases plateau and driving pressures, highlighting the need for individualized titration to minimize VILI risk. Both low and high PEEP strategies were well tolerated, with similar hemodynamic stability and short-term mortality, supporting personalized ventilator management in ICU patients.
Copyright (c) 2025 Marlon Carbonell González, Rosali Santiago Roibal, Deborah Cabrera Rodríguez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
High-resolution dissociation analysis for the molecular diagnosis of cystic fibrosis in Cuba.
Cystic fibrosis is a common recessive disease in the Caucasian population. Mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene can cause damage to the protein it encodes. Seven mutations are directly analyzed in Cuba, representing 55.5% of the pathogenic allelic variants in cystic fibrosis patients. The high allelic heterogeneity of this gene and its varied phenotypic expression make it vitally important to detect a greater number of genetic variants that cause the disease. With this data, patients can receive better genetic counseling and personalized treatment that would improve their quality of life. It is therefore necessary to search for new variants to complete the diagnosis. The objective of this work was to identify new genetic variants in the CFTR gene and confirm the clinical diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis. Twenty-one patients clinically diagnosed as cystic fibrosis by the National Medical Genetics Network or identified as positive through the Neonatal Screening Program were analyzed. Eleven real-time polymerase chain reaction assays were performed on the isolated DNA, followed by high-resolution dissociation curve analysis. The amplification of these eleven fragments covered the five exons of the gene with the highest number of described mutations and the adjacent intronic regions. Subsequently, the samples that showed changes in the curve pattern were sequenced. Five mutations were detected: one pathogenic, two of uncertain significance, one benign, and one with conflicting clinical significance. Point genetic variants were identified in four of the five exons analyzed. The real-time polymerase chain reaction – high resolution melting curve technique proved useful for searching for point mutations along the CFTR gene sequence, which, in combination with Sanger sequencing, will allow for the identification of new variants in the Cuban population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Teresa Collazo Mesa, Ixchel López Reyes, Mercy Estévez Miere, Alejandro Esperón Álvarez, Fidel Rodríguez Cala (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AI in the university: ethical and strategic diagnosis for a responsible integration in higher education
The rapid emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, is reshaping study practices in higher education, offering opportunities for pedagogical innovation while also raising ethical dilemmas, regulatory tensions, and academic risks. In Ecuador, the institutional integration of AI remains incipient and uneven, making contextualized assessments essential for guiding responsible decision-making. This study evaluates, from an ethical and strategic perspective, the use, perceptions, and AI literacy of students from Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi (UTC) and Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE (Latacunga campus) as a basis for proposing guidelines for responsible integration of AI in higher education. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and comparative design was applied to an intentional sample of 400 students using a validated five-point Likert-type questionnaire (global α > .80) measuring five dimensions: academic use, perceived benefits, ethical risks, perceived literacy and institutional governance, and willingness toward responsible integration. Findings reveal frequent use of AI for information retrieval, writing support, and comprehension of academic content, alongside a generally positive valuation of AI as a learning resource. However, students also express concerns regarding plagiarism, reduced critical-thinking skills, algorithmic biases, and the absence of clear institutional policies. Significant differences were observed between universities in declared AI literacy and awareness of governance frameworks, with ESPE reporting slightly higher levels. Despite these variations, both groups show strong willingness to receive training and engage in responsible AI integration initiatives. Overall, the study concludes that while AI is already embedded in students’ academic routines, ethical and pedagogical governance remains underdeveloped, highlighting the need for explicit institutional policies, critical AI literacy programs, and participatory mechanisms to support responsible integration in Ecuadorian higher education.
Copyright (c) 2025 Francisco Xavier Matehu Espinosa, Edison Oswaldo Arguello Maya, Mónica Marylin Chávez González, Karina Piedad Arias Cevallos, Yilena Montero Reyes (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Educational innovation in Latin American universities: Exploring the potential of the metaverse in higher education teaching
The metaverse was conceptualized as an immersive environment capable of transforming learning experiences through three-dimensional interaction, virtual collaboration, and educational simulation. The main objective of this study was to analyze how academic participation, student performance, and digital equity were influenced by the integration of the metaverse in Latin American higher education. A mixed-methods sequential design was applied; quantitative instruments were designed and validated according to the core variables, achieving strong reliability levels, and surveys were administered to 600 students. Additionally, semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with students and instructors to explore perceptions in greater depth, followed by systematic open, axial, and selective coding. Quantitative results indicated that the metaverse increased participation and motivation, with mean values above 3.30; however, improvements in performance were moderate and uneven across participants. Significant digital equity gaps related to device access and connectivity also emerged, limiting the scope of immersive activities. Qualitative findings reinforced these patterns, revealing that participants perceived clear pedagogical benefits but experienced persistent technological barriers and limited training. Overall, the results showed that the metaverse had substantial potential to enhance participation and learning, although its effectiveness depended on institutional support, technological conditions, and users’ digital literacy levels.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juan de Jesús Alvarado Ortiz, Teresa del Carmen Cabrera Gómez, Luis Germán Sánchez Méndez, Katherine Adriana Meino Villa4, Gabriela Margarita Loza Casa, Jefferson Olimpo Gutierrez Bastidas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Women Leaders in the Peruvian Public Sector: Communicative Barriers, Opportunities, and Meanings from a Phenomenological Approach
Female leadership in public administration is key to gender equity and institutional strengthening. From the point of view of labor law, it is linked to equal opportunities in access, permanence and promotion in employment, guaranteed by national and international regulations. This study, with a qualitative phenomenological-hermeneutic approach, explored the experiences of female leadership in the Peruvian public administration through semi-structured interviews of approximately 45 minutes each, applied to 28 female public servants selected through intentional sampling by criteria, minimum seniority of 5 years in the position, representation of different hierarchical levels and regions. The interviews continued until information saturation was reached, iterations 25-28, verified when no new thematic codes emerged. Data analysis was performed with Atlas.ti v9 software, applying open, axial and selective coding, ensuring reliability through triangulation of researchers and validation of participants. Written informed consents were collected, ensuring anonymity and confidentiality. The findings show normative and sociocultural barriers that hinder the development of female leadership and opportunities. Representative textual quotations are included to illustrate each category. It is concluded that in order to consolidate strong and equitable female leadership, a normative and cultural commitment is required, along with concrete strategies for inclusion such as inter-institutional mentoring programs, gender equality committees, implicit bias training and professional development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rafael Romero-Carazas, Hernán Oliver Dionisio-Flores, Rosana Santillán De la Vega, Nerio Janampa-Acuña, Félix Cáceres-Gálvez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Self-Care of Family Caregivers of People Peritoneal Dialysis
Introduction: Self-care of family caregivers of people on peritoneal dialysis is essential to preserve their physical, emotional, and social well-being, as well as to ensure the quality of patient care. Frequent caregiver burden and associated stress make it necessary to systematize evidence on self-care strategies and protective factors. Objective: To analyze the dimensions of self-care in family caregivers of people on peritoneal dialysis. Methods: An integrative systematic review was conducted in LILACS, SciELO, Pubmed and RedALyC using the descriptors and keywords: “self-care,” “family caregiver,” and “peritoneal dialysis,” combined with the Boolean operators AND and OR. Original studies and reviews published between 2014 and 2024, in Spanish or Portuguese, that addressed self-care, caregiver burden, and coping strategies in caregivers of peritoneal dialysis patients were included. Incomplete texts, studies focusing on pediatric populations, or those exclusively on hemodialysis were excluded. Study selection and data extraction followed PRISMA guidelines, and synthesis was performed narratively, identifying patterns, protective factors, and limitations. Results: Caregivers experience physical and emotional burden, stress, and alterations in health habits. Continuous education, active coping strategies, and participation in support networks are key protective factors. Self-care is conceived as a conscious process that requires professional guidance and institutional recognition. Conclusions: Self-care in family caregivers of people on peritoneal dialysis is a set of practices aimed at maintaining and improving overall well-being, directly impacting the quality of patient care. These findings highlight the need for nursing policies and strategies that strengthen caregiver support.
Copyright (c) 2025 María del Pilar Vargas Escamilla, Michel Oria Saavedra, Anibal Espinosa Aguilar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Construction of user experience model iniImmersive virtual environment based on ontology
With the rapid development of virtual immersion technology, immersive virtual environment (IVE) has shown its unique application potential in many fields. The purpose of this study is to explore and construct a user experience model in immersive virtual environment based on ontological theory. The key factors affecting user experience include sensory experience, interaction control, distraction factors, realism perception, ownership, motion control and location. Environmental dimension and physical dimension are the two core aspects of user experience. Sensory experience and sense of ownership have a significant positive impact on users' sense of existence in a specific environment, while control dimension, sensory dimension and realism dimension play an important role in enhancing users' sense of ontology. The different dimensions of the sense of ontology have a significant positive impact on the user's sense of immersion and presence, which verifies the central role of the sense of ontology in enhancing the user's immersion experience. We look forward to further enhancing the user's immersion experience and promoting the application of immersive virtual environment in a wider range of fields
Copyright (c) 2024 Kuan Zhang , Yan Guo , Yuming Wang , Pengyu Cai , Younghwan Pan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Conciseness and Derivatives of Moonlighting Intentions in India's Pharmaceutical Industry
Factors influencing Moonlighting Intentions (MI) in India’s Pharmaceutical Industry (IPI) include organizational culture, work-life balance, and employee engagement. In this paper, we examine the factors determining the MI of employees in the IPI and how organizational dynamics, employee engagement, work-life balance, and organizational culture influence MI. The research studies the direct links between these variables and the probability of employees exploring supplementary employment using quantitative and qualitative methods. The data were obtained by interviewing Human Resource (HR) professionals and senior management using organized questionnaires. By highlighting the relationship between organizational culture, work-life balance, and employee visits to MI, the results illustrate significant positive features of organizational culture and work-life balance and the negative impact of employee engagement in MI. In addition, the paper determines that organizational assurance moderates the link between work-life balance and moonlighting. The implications of these results for IPI attempting to manage the phenomenon of moonlighting while sustaining employees and structuring organizational commitment are of value. Through these dynamics, companies can develop policies for reducing the effects of moonlighting and increasing actual employee output. It turns out that 8 out of 25 employees with poor work-life balance primarily work on the requirement for moonlighting, and organizational culture considerably impacts the figure. Methods: A well-crafted questionnaire was used to gather the necessary data for the study, which looked at the factors influencing employees' MI (Moonlighting Intentions) in the India’s Pharmaceutical Industry (IPI) as well as how organizational dynamics, employee engagement, work-life balance, and organizational culture affect MI. The essential hypotheses regarding the study's goals were articulated, and each was examined with the aid of pertinent statistical instruments. Results: According to research findings, work-life balance, corporate culture, and organizational commitment all have a significant role in employee engagement teams' decisions to moonlight. Conclusions: The study concludes that to reduce the likelihood that workers may look for outside employment, IPI companies should prioritize good HR procedures, work-life balance policies, and a favourable corporate culture. Employee retention, satisfaction, and overall organizational productivity are all expected to rise with such a strategy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nahas. N, K.S Chandrasekar, Manoj Krishnan Champettil, Lekshmi MS, Sowmya Vivek, Ravi Kumar Bommisetti (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Ethical challenges for using artificial intelligence in understanding Islamic jurisprudence
Introduction: This research aims to examine the moral issues of using artificial intelligence approaches to interpret and comprehend Islamic law. It sheds light on the expansion of artificial intelligence-centered applications in the religious sphere, aiming at issuing and providing fatwas, centering analysis of jurisprudential literature, and legal relief interpretation. Methods: The study highlights the worry about the training data bias, the lack of sufficient culture and religion of the software, and how legitimately responsible one is when one is wrong in interpreting and/or reasoning. Results: The study analyses other related concerns such as the credibility of artificial moral agents and neutrality as well as the autonomy of human actors in making religious decisions but agrees on the possibility of managing the projection of such AI systems within Islamic Sharia law. Conclusions: To sum up, the study advances a recommendation on the ethical principles and indicators that can facilitate responsible use of the technologies in question, emphasizing the importance of jurists and specialists in monitoring their development and use to enhance Islamic law objectives.
Copyright (c) 2025 Israa Musa Al-Momani (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Some considerations on the Judicial Review in Argentina
Constitutional review is a critical mechanism for safeguarding constitutional supremacy in modern legal systems. Argentina adopted a system of judicial review based on the original U.S. model. This system, established through the Supreme Court's decisions, has defined the judiciary's role in the nation's constitutional democracy. This paper, aims to identify and describe the core elements and characteristics of Argentina's system of constitutional review. It analyzes how this system has been shaped by key jurisprudential precedents from the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (CSJN), exploring the unique tension between its origins in a Common Law model and its implementation in a Civil Law tradition. The research methodology is a qualitative analysis of historical legal documents and key judicial rulings. The study focuses on landmark precedents from the CSJN to trace the historical development and define the essential characteristics of constitutional review in Argentina. The paper demonstrates that Argentina's system of constitutional control is a diffuse model, where all judges can exercise review. A key finding is the absence of a strict stare decisis rule, which creates a paradox where Supreme Court decisions are not formally binding but are treated as a “moral duty” for lower courts to follow for reasons of procedural economy and legal certainty. The analysis reveals that the system's development was primarily “praetorian,” driven by the CSJN's rulings rather than explicit legislative or constitutional mandates. The Argentine system of judicial review remains one of the few worldwide that closely follows the original U.S. model, yet it has unique features that reflect its Civil Law context. While not formally binding, the practical application of the CSJN's precedents creates a de facto obligation for lower courts. This tension is central to understanding the system's functionality and its implications for the protection of constitutional rights.
Copyright (c) 2025 Cristian Altavilla (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Institutional Strategies to Improve Postgraduate Graduation Rates: The Case of the MBA at UES21
Introduction: postgraduate programs face a growing demand for accountability, where graduation rate becomes a key quality indicator. This study explores strategies to increase the graduation rate in the MBA program at UES21. Methods: a mixed-method design was applied, combining a descriptive cross-sectional analysis of the 2018 cohort graduation rate with surveys and interviews of students and faculty. Results: only 8.58 % of students graduated within the expected timeframe. Main barriers identified include difficulties in academic writing, weak theoretical frameworks, and low engagement with thesis advisors. Conclusions: institutional actions such as mentorship programs, writing workshops, and flexible assessment criteria are recommended to improve graduation outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mariana Constanza Frandino, Laura Andrea Bustamante (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Gender Gap in Mathematics as an Expression of Educational Inequality: Evidence from the 2022 Aprender Tests
Introduction: this article analyzes the gender gap in mathematics performance in Argentine secondary education based on the results of the 2022 Aprender Tests. Methods: a non-experimental quantitative design was used, including mean difference analysis and statistical significance testing. Results: boys scored significantly higher than girls, particularly in contexts of greater social vulnerability. Conclusions: the gender gap in mathematics is understood as a structural phenomenon that requires public policies aimed at educational equity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Laura Andrea Bustamante, Pablo Sebastián Gómez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Digital Governance and Personal Data Protection: Proposals for an Ethical Public Transformation through the Privacy-by-Design Approach
Introduction: this research examined the relationship between digital innovation in public administration and personal data protection, employing a Privacy-by-Design (PbD) approach. It assessed the extent to which government platforms incorporate ethical and legal aspects that guarantee data privacy and security. Methods: a qualitative study of Argentine public initiatives was conducted, combining three strategies: (i) visual exploration of the platforms from the user experience; (ii) manual and automated analysis of metadata on published datasets; and (iii) development of a prototype in Python to validate technical aspects linked to PbD principles, such as security settings, transparency, and basic privacy control mechanisms. Results: progress was observed in access to open public data and tools aimed at citizen transparency. However, the full incorporation of data protection principles remains a challenge, as evidenced by both manual analysis and automated testing of the prototype. Metadata analysis and technical evaluation revealed weaknesses in the design, particularly in privacy and the implementation of user-accessible control mechanisms. Conclusions: the results underscore the importance of integrating Privacy-by-Design into smart governance, thereby strengthening citizen trust in digital services and promoting more responsible and sustainable forms of governance. Design recommendations are presented that foster a paradigm shift in application development and regulatory standards for digital public innovation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Roxana Martínez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sustainable Management in the Business Sector of Riobamba City
Introduction: The concept of sustainable management has gained prominence in the industrial sector as response to the environmental and social challenges of the 21st century. From a theoretical perspective, sustainable practices are proposed to integrate economic, environmental, and social strategies that enable companies to enhance their overall performance and reputation. The study identified the sustainability practices implemented in productive sectors, analyzing the perceptions, strategies, and outcomes observed by local business owners. Methods: A survey was conducted among 150 companies from the productive sector in Riobamba, equitably selected from the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors. The instrument included closed-ended questions related to the level of knowledge, implemented practices, perceived benefits and challenges, suggested strategies, and willingness to invest in sustainability. The data collected were analyzed using frequencies and percentages to identify trends. Results: Seventy-five percent of the companies expressed a willingness to invest in sustainable practices, with waste management (28%) and efficient water use (17%) being the most common practices. Fifty-seven percent evaluated the impact of these strategies positively, while 29% indicated a need for financial support to enhance their sustainability. Regulatory barriers and a lack of training and sustainable culture were cited as significant obstacles. Conclusions: The productive sector shows significant progress in the implementation of sustainable practices, though challenges such as financing, training, regulation, and technical and economic support remain. It is suggested to adopt sustainable strategies that optimize the environmental, economic, and social impact of the sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Luz Maribel Vallejo Chávez , Jaqueline Elizabeth Balseca Castro , Miranda Salazar Sandra Patricia , Flor Karina Govea Andrade (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The relationship between screen time, nutritional status, and sedentary lifestyle among adolescents aged 12-17 in Commune 5 of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, during the first four months of 2025
Introduction: Prolonged screen time has been linked to changes in nutritional status and physical activity habits among adolescents. Understanding this relationship is essential for designing interventions to improve youth health. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, and correlational study was conducted with 200 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years from Comuna 5, Buenos Aires City. Structured questionnaires were used to measure screen time, calculate body mass index (BMI), and assess sedentary behavior levels. Data were analyzed using vertical and percentage analyses. Results: Obesity was most prevalent among adolescents with less than one hour of daily screen time (93.3%), decreasing in groups with moderate screen time and increasing again in those exceeding three hours (70.4%). Overweight increased with screen time, particularly in medium and long durations. Normal BMI peaked in the group with around three hours of screen time. High sedentary behavior showed an increasing trend with more screen time, reaching 43.7% in adolescents with over three hours daily. Medium and low sedentary levels were more frequent in groups with intermediate and short screen times. Conclusions: There is a complex, non-linear relationship between screen time, nutritional status, and sedentary behavior in adolescents. Increased screen exposure is associated with higher sedentary levels and nutritional alterations, underscoring the need for comprehensive interventions to promote healthy habits and regulate screen use in this population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pedro Juniors Perez Juaniquina , Yhenny Yhaneth Leuca Quilla , Yhoselin Mery Leuca Quilla , Araceli Belen Zúñiga Mendieta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Diversity of theoretical sources in the ecuadorian constitution
Introduction: One of the greatest challenges for justice operators in any society is the lack of understanding of the genesis, scope, and meaning of the norms governing their people, especially when these have constitutional status. This lack of comprehension can undermine the effectiveness of the legal system, rendering it merely declarative and inert instead of an effective structure for collective life and the exercise of fundamental rights. Methods: While an empirical study on the application of the Ecuadorian Constitution in the ordinary and special jurisdictions since its enactment in 2008 can be conducted, the results would be largely quantitative. Therefore, it is essential to carry out a theoretical, historical, critical, and analytical study of the foundations that support the Ecuadorian constitutional proposal to understand its true impact on the legal system. Results: Only through rigorous analysis is it possible to assess the nature and scope of the Constitution, ensuring that it functions as a substantive and effective norm. Its proper application is crucial to consolidating a constitutional state of rights and justice, where fundamental principles and guarantees are not only formally recognized but also effectively enforced. Conclusions: In this context, the prevailing philosophical and theoretical currents of contemporary law that influenced the Ecuadorian Constituent Assembly are examined, with Garantism and Principlism standing out as the dominant approaches shaping the current legal framework.
Copyright (c) 2025 Regis Ernesto Parra Proaño, María del Carmen Moreno Albuja, Edwin Patricio Pombosa Junez, Luz Maribel Vallejo Chávez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modern Approaches to Journalism in the Digital Media Era: the Role of Multimedia Content and Audience Interaction
Introduction: Digital media have become an essential tool for information dissemination and content creation in current journalism. Objectives: This study aimed to analyse the role of multimedia content in audience engagement and interaction through contemporary journalistic techniques. Methods: The research employed a survey of an experimental group comprising 250 journalists, editors, and Internet users. The survey focused on assessing the impact of multimedia technologies on journalism and identifying specific techniques used in digital content creation. Results: The results indicate that modern multimedia content significantly influences journalistic practices, enhancing audience engagement and interactivity. Key features of multimedia-based journalism include the integration of podcasts, video storytelling, and the use of graphic editing tools for processing and presenting statistical data. These technologies enable journalists to deliver information more effectively and appeal to diverse audience preferences. The study highlights the growing importance of multimedia technologies in shaping journalistic presentation and interaction strategies. Conclusions: The use of digital technologies in journalistic content creation is a defining feature of contemporary media practices. By leveraging multimedia tools, journalists can produce engaging, high-quality content that fosters meaningful audience interaction. This integration of digital technologies not only enriches the content but also establishes stronger connections with the audience, making multimedia an indispensable component of modern journalism. The research underscores the transformative role of digital media in evolving journalistic standards and practices
Copyright (c) 2024 Valentyna Stiekolshchykova, Iryna Putsyata, Oksana Lavryk, Olga Marukhovskа-Kartunova, Oleg Marukhovskyi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Competency-based Curriculum: A New Approach to Curricular Change
After the pandemic, education in Ecuador needed to align the curriculum with 21st-century skills and technological advances that occur in a global world. This adjustment must ensure that students acquire not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and essential competencies to thrive in a digitalized and interconnected world. The aim of this article is to justify why a competency-based curricular change is necessary, adopting a new educational paradigm. This article is based on theoretical research using the document review technique. The findings suggest a change to a new curricular structure that overcomes the existing gaps between academic education and the competencies required in the current labor market, promoting an education that integrates practical skills with advanced theory, preparing students to face the challenges of a technologically advanced and competitive work environment. The need to review and update the national curriculum is emphasized to foster an education that is truly relevant and applicable in the future professional context
Copyright (c) 2024 Efrén Mesías Palacios Zumba, María Gladys Cóndor Chicaiza, Martha Cecilia Peñaherrera Cueva, Lilia Maritza Bustillos Tapia, Miriam Janeth Toalombo Tipán, Ageda Raquel Simba Pozo, Lena Cleotilde López Orozco (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic factors associated with cleft lip and palate in children at the “William Soler” hospital, 2021 to 2022
Introduction: Cleft lip and palate are common congenital anomalies and the etiopathogenesis is not well understood, being fundamentally associated with polygenic or multifactorial inheritance. In nonsyndromic oral clefts, the genetic condition represents around 25% of cases. Objective. To identify the genetic factors associated with cleft lip and palate. Method. Descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study of 104 patients treated for congenital cleft lip and palate in the Maxillofacial Surgery department of the William Soler Ledea Pediatric Hospital from January 2021 to December 2022. The variables studied were: sex, form of presentation of the cleft, isolated congenital defects, previous siblings, intergenetic period, history of family members with congenital malformations, consanguinity of the parents and abortions. Results: The patients presented with an equal distribution by sex (p=0.890), isolated clefts (90.4%) occurred regardless of sex. The presence of previous siblings (59.6%) was significantly associated (p=0.0084), as were a history of family congenital malformations (36.5%) of second degree consanguinity (50%), and previous abortions (50%). Conclusions. The children studied with cleft lip and palate follow a homogeneous distribution by sex and only a small number presented multiple congenital defects. Slightly more than a third were associated with multiparous mothers, with a high frequency of previous abortions, and evidence of a history of familial congenital malformations, mainly of second degree consanguinity through the maternal line.
Copyright (c) 2025 Julio Valcarcel Llerandi, Estela Morales Peralta, María del Carmen Fernández González, Amparo Pérez Borrego (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Association of birth weight with blood pressure and renal function variables in children aged 3 to 6 years
INTRODUCTION: Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) has recently been related to an increase in blood pressure figures in different countries. OBJECTIVE The objective of this research was to evaluate the relationship between blood pressure and kidney function with birth weight in children aged 3 to 6 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS Thirty-two healthy, normotensive children with a history of low birth weight due to IUGR or normal birth weight, aged between 3 and 6 years, were studied in the Marianao municipality of Havana. Their nutritional status was determined based on their body surface area, using the Haycock formula expressed in square meters. Arterial, systolic and diastolic pressures were measured using the Riva Rocci-Korotkoff method, calculating the average. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined using the Schwartz 2 formula (GFR WS) and Pottel for serum creatinine and for serum Cystatin C using Pottel. The renal and blood pressure variables were adjusted to body surface area and analyzed using Pearson's correlation. Ethical standards for research on humans were respected. RESULTS Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures, as well as GFR, were inversely correlated with birth weight. Children with a history of low birth weight due to IUGR presented higher blood pressure values, although not pathological with respect to their peers; the IFG values in this group of children were higher with respect to their peers, calculated both by creatinine through the Pottel method and serum Cystatin C. CONCLUSION There is a tendency for higher blood pressure values in children with low birth weight due to IUGR. The correlation between IFG and birth weight supports theories about the influence of hyperfiltration on high blood pressure, so we suggest more extensive studies of the variables studied, as well as the use of the Pottel formula for its study.
Copyright (c) 2025 Carlos Rolando Maldonado Bernardo, Adina Pérez Mejías, Miguel Alfonso Álvarez Fornaris (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The effect of the formal organizer strategy on the achievement and visual thinking skills of first-year intermediate female students in social studies subject
Due to Large number of criticisms directed at educational institutions such as being negligent in developing students’ ideas and teaching them how to develop these ideas, this paper came to fill in the gap by tackling the strategy of formal organizer and to show how effective this strategy was on the achievement and visual thinking skills among first-year intermediate female students in social studies subject. The current research was applied to sample of intermediate schools for girls in Iraq composed of (282) female students chosen randomly from number of intermediate schools for girls in the city of Diwaniyah for (2023-24) to identify the range of this strategy effectiveness in teaching the subject of social studies. The result indicated that there was a statistically significant difference between the average grades of the female students of the experimental group who studied social studies according to the formal organizer strategy, and the average grades of the female students of the control group who studied the same subject in the usual way in the achievement variable in favor of the female students of the experimental group. In light of the results, the researcher concluded teaching social studies based on the strategy of formal organizer raised the level of achievement, worked to give students a positive role in the learning process and raised visual thinking skills.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mohammed Tuama Kadhim, Afrah Nasir Chilab (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Innovative Solutions in Administrative Management: Trends and Prospects
Introduction: Administrative management for modern enterprises is evolving into an integrated tool supporting adaptive development and implementing advanced innovative technologies. This study aimed to systematise innovative solutions for organising administrative management in contemporary enterprises. Methods: The research systematically analysed current administrative management practices, focusing on integrating innovative digital technologies. Business process modelling was used to conceptualise the application of these innovations within administrative frameworks. Results: The findings revealed that current trends in administrative management emphasise lean production systems enhanced by digital technologies, including Big Data analytics, artificial intelligence, and business process modelling. Business process modelling was identified as a critical tool for planning administrative management, enabling a clear definition of process stages, assignment of responsibilities, and determination of essential data for implementation. A model for integrating innovations into administrative management processes was developed, demonstrating the value of structured digital approaches. Conclusions: The innovative development of modern administrative management is primarily driven by the adoption of digital technologies. By leveraging tools like business process modelling, enterprises can streamline administrative workflows, enhance adaptability, and facilitate the integration of cutting-edge solutions. These findings underscore the importance of digitalisation in transforming administrative management to meet the demands of a competitive business environment.
Copyright (c) 2024 Inna Sokhan, Liu Jiren, Kateryna Kandahura, Nataliia Hoi, Petro Matkovskyi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Concept of Interactive Arabic Learning Media Uses the First-Person Shooter Gamification Method
Arabic was a fundamental language for studying and advancing knowledge in the Qur'an and Hadith, which are essential guides for Muslims. This research aimed to develop a gamification concept using 3D First-Person Shooter (FPS) game technology for Arabic language learning in Integrated Islamic Elementary Schools (SDIT) in East Java. The study employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach combined with the waterfall model in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). The results indicated that the concept and design of interactive Arabic learning media based on the first-person shooter gamification method using the flow of the Mechanic Dynamic Aesthetic (MDA) framework method have been successfully developed well and can be employed to aid teachers in developing easily Arabic-comprehensible teaching media for students. In conclusion, this game-based learning media was expected to improve the effectiveness and enjoyment of learning Arabic while increasing students' interest in Arabic language learning.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yoke Suryadarma, Faisal Reza Pradhana, Fitri Setyo Rini, Moh. Ismail, Nikmalathul Maisyaroh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Adherence to treatment in hypertensive patients at the Medical Clinic 6
Introduction: arterial hypertension represents an important burden of morbidity worldwide, the lack of adherence to treatment has medical, economic and psychosocial repercussions. Objective: to characterize adherence to treatment in hypertensive patients at the Juan Bruno Zayas polyclinic medical office No. 6, Mantua, during the period January 2021 - June 2023. Methods: an observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, the universe consisted of 403 patients classified as hypertensive, a sample of 88 hypertensive patients was selected by non-probabilistic sampling, theoretical and empirical methods were used, such as the Martín-Bayarre-Grau questionnaire to assess adherence and a survey to measure knowledge about the disease and the factors that influence non-adherence to treatment, descriptive statistics were used in absolute and relative frequencies. Results: predominance of the age group over 60 years, female sex, and pre-university level; the time of evolution of the disease was more than 10 years; the influential factor in non-adherence to treatment was forgetfulness and less than half of the sample studied presented adherence to treatment. Conclusions: the lack of adherence to treatment in hypertensive patients at the Juan Bruno Zayas polyclinic medical office 6 is a health problem that needs to be solved.
Copyright (c) 2023 Osiris Oscar Terrado Almarales, Yanara González Baños, Doraiky Díaz Hernández, Lloy Valdés Pin, Mirelis Alfaro Urquiola (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0