Artículos Científicos Indexados
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Ítem Solo Metadatos Leveraging Geographic Research, Web Applications and Surveys in the Construction of Educational Strategies in Ecuador(Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. Volume 1004 LNNS, Pages 185 - 202, 2024) Santos, Fabián; Suárez, Fernanda; Gairín, JoaquínCommunicating geographic research and contributing to the construction of regional educational strategies represent little-explored challenges. This paper takes a geographic research study that discusses territorial imbalances in access to higher education in Ecuador as an example. It describes a methodology based on developing a web application software (WAS) named “Brechas Educativas”. This software aims to disseminate research results and encourages users to reflect on their territories and the access to higher education for their student populations. Subsequently, we collected perceptions about the WAS, factors affecting academic performance and the assimilation of experiences post-COVID-19 pandemic through a survey. To achieve this, virtual workshops were conducted with 95 educational institutions (EIs) across Ecuador, complemented by email correspondence with a group of 3284 EIs. Our results enabled us to understand the good practices for developing WAS for scientific dissemination, the achievements and pitfalls in collecting opinions from the EIs and to draft focused strategies for educational decision-making in this area, informed by both app traffic and survey responses.Ítem Solo Metadatos Comparative Analysis of Neural Networks and Data Processing Techniques for Parkinson’s Gait Classification(Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. Volume 1068 LNNS, Pages 576 - 590, 2024) Reyes, Israel; Andaluz, Francis; Troya, Kerly; Zhinin-Vera, Luis; Almeida-Galárraga, DiegoParkinson’s disease (PD) is an advancing neurodegenerative condition characterized by motor symptoms, including disturbances in gait and varying degrees of severity, typically assessed using the Hoehn and Yahr stages. Precise classification of PD gait patterns and severity levels is of paramount importance for efficient diagnosis and continuous treatment monitoring. This research article presents a comprehensive assessment of the performance of three distinct Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models integrated with diverse data processing techniques, encompassing segmentation, filtration, and noise reduction, in the context of classifying PD severity. The classification is based on the vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) measurements obtained from both healthy individuals and those afflicted by Parkinson’s disease, sourced from a well-established database (GaitPDB, Physio Net). The study provides a comparative analysis of the efficacy of these models in accurately discriminating between various gait patterns and stages of disease severity, underscoring their potential to enhance clinical decision-making and patient care. Additionally, the study offers valuable insights into the impact of data processing methodologies on classification performance.Ítem Solo Metadatos Real-time hardware emulation of neural cultures: A comparative study of in vitro, in silico and in duris silico models(Neural Networks. Open Access. Volume 179, 2024) Vallejo-Mancero, Bernardo; Faci-Lázaro, Sergio; Zapata, Mireya; Soriano, Jordi; Madrenas, JordiBiological neural networks are well known for their capacity to process information with extremely low power consumption. Fields such as Artificial Intelligence, with high computational costs, are seeking for alternatives inspired in biological systems. An inspiring alternative is to implement hardware architectures that replicate the behavior of biological neurons but with the flexibility in programming capabilities of an electronic device, all combined with a relatively low operational cost. To advance in this quest, here we analyze the capacity of the HEENS hardware architecture to operate in a similar manner as an in vitro neuronal network grown in the laboratory. For that, we considered data of spontaneous activity in living neuronal cultures of about 400 neurons and compared their collective dynamics and functional behavior with those obtained from direct numerical simulations (in silico) and hardware implementations (in duris silico). The results show that HEENS is capable to mimic both the in vitro and in silico systems with high efficient-cost ratio, and on different network topological designs. Our work shows that compact low-cost hardware implementations are feasible, opening new avenues for future, highly efficient neuromorphic devices and advanced human–machine interfacing.Ítem Solo Metadatos Sensory Substitution in Music: Enhancing Deaf Perception Through Vibrotactile Feedback(Proceedings of Ninth International Congress on Information and Communication Technology. pp 19–29, 2024) Jadán, Johann; Zapata, Mireya; Remache, PaúlMusic experienced through vibrotactile interfaces is a method of perceiving musical elements through the sense of touch, often involving vibrations. This technology functions by converting audio signals into physical sensations that can be sensed through the skin, typically via a wearable device like a wristband. Beginning with an initial audio file devoid of tactile feedback, the procedure entails altering it through sinusoidal modeling and, if necessary, implementing a Space-Fixed Audio transformation by utilizing the Head-Related Transfer Function (HRTF). In this study, we successfully transformed sound files into tactile stereo vibrations using specialized hardware. This process was rigorously tested and validated through experimentation involving ten individuals. Our findings confirm that psychophysical sensations can indeed be perceptible. Notably, the most consistent responses were observed when applying the Vibrato and Tremolo effect, following an HRTF transformation. The Space-Fixed Audio transformation primarily introduced variations in azimuth, covering 360 in a clockwise direction. Consequently, this processing led to significant spectral changes, effectively rescaling and compressing the audio’s frequencies into lower equivalents. These modified spectral characteristics were subsequently transmitted through vibrotactile actuators, thereby transforming the essence of sound into a tactile experience. This innovative system creates a sensory replacement approach based on the psychophysical sensations perceived on the skin. It has proven to be exceptionally beneficial, particularly for individuals with hearing impairments who may not perceive music in the same way as individuals with typical hearing abilities.Ítem Solo Metadatos Bibliometric Analysis of the Use of Technology in Neuropsychology(Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. Volume 1002 LNNS, Pages 365 - 373, 2024) Ramos-Galarza, Carlos; García-Cruz, Patricia; Ramos, Valentina; Cruz-Cárdenas, Jorge; Bolaños-Pasquel, MónicaNeuropsychology is a science that studies the relationship between behavior, emotion and cognition and brain functioning. This science has been characterized by the use of traditional pencil and paper tools for its diagnosis and intervention processes; however, in recent years there has been a growing interest in including technological developments for the use of the clinician. In this article, we present a bibliometric review of 50,481 articles published in the research line of neuropsychology and technology. The analyses performed include the number of articles published per year, countries of greatest publication, journals with the greatest number of articles in this line of research, international research centers interested in the research topic, type of publication, the different types of disciplines and an analysis of the graphical construction of the verbal networks according to the keywords of the articles analyzed. The discussion analyzes the impact of technology on the development of neuropsychology and the future implications that arise in this line of research.Ítem Solo Metadatos Development of a Convolutional Neural Network for detection of Lung Cancer based on Computed Tomography Images(2023 Fourth International Conference on Information Systems and Software Technologies (ICI2ST). Pages: 24-31, 2024) Narvaez, Gabriela; Tirado-Espín, Andrés; Cadena-Morejon, Carolina; Villalba-Meneses, Fernando; Cruz-Varela, Jonathan; Gordón, Gabriela Villavicencio; Guevara-Maldonado, César; Alvarado-Cando, Omar; Almeida-Galárraga, DiegoLung cancer is a disease that generates an impact worldwide as it is one of the cancers with the highest incidence and mortality among all types of cancer. Lung cancer usually does not show symptoms until it is in an advanced stage of the cancer, lowering the survival rate of those affected. At the national level, lung cancer is recognized as the second type of cancer with the highest incidence and the first with the highest mortality, so an early and effective diagnosis can increase the survival rate. Currently there are many techniques for the diagnosis of cancer in early stages such as Computed Tomography (CT). CT scans are widely used due to their high sensitivity in the detection of pulmonary nodules without the need to be invasive, which avoids physical damage to the tissues. In addition, there has currently been a great growth in advanced computational techniques that, together with CT, can extract useful characteristics that support radiologists in the detection process. One of the most used techniques for this purpose are neural networks, which are designed to identify patterns and classify image objects. For this reason, in this project the methodology presented consists of training two convolutional neural networks with the VGG16 and DenseNet networks, which have been used in other projects with good results. Both methods were trained with the LIDC-IDRI database, which has a large number of CT scans of patients diagnosed with lung cancer. An evaluation of the models was carried out based on the metrics of accuracy, precision, sensitivity and specificity where the values of 0.992, 0.859, 0.952 and 0.994 were obtained for the VGG16 network and for the DenseNet network the values 0.995, 0.909, 0.959 and 0.996 were obtained respectively. Demonstrating the relevance of this technique in the medical field, serving as support for radiologists and later serving as an alternative for lung cancer detection.Ítem Solo Metadatos Analysis of Natural Lighting in Traditional Homes: Pilahuin Case Study(Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering. Volume 530 LNCE, Pages 423 - 435, 2024) Bustán-Gaona, Darío; Jiménez-Sanchez, Yomara; Avilés-Castillo, FátimaTraditional homes in the Ecuadorian Andean region showcase their culture and tradition in their design. However, they may not be effectively harnessing natural light, making it necessary to analyze this condition. Natural light is essential for creating comfortable and habitable environments in homes. This research aims to understand the influence of natural lighting in traditional homes. On-site measurements and digital simulations were conducted to evaluate the luminous flux in specific areas of these homes. Parameters unique to this type of construction, such as the materials used, orientation, date, and time of day, were considered to ensure the accuracy of the simulations. Using Velux software, it was possible to simulate the sun's trajectory throughout the day and year to comprehend and enhance the luminous performance of these spaces. Measurements and simulations revealed that the levels of illumination in traditional Andean homes fall below the standards established in the Ecuadorian Construction Regulations. This is partly due to the design of small windows on the main facade and the materials used in floors and walls. This demonstrates that integrating natural light into architectural design is crucial for improving the quality of life for occupants and promoting sustainability.Ítem Solo Metadatos Effect of Burnout Syndrome on work performance in administrative personne(Salud, Ciencia y Tecnologia. Volume 4, 2024) Freire-Palacios, Verónica; Arévalo-Lara, Sridam; Espíndola-Lara, María; Ramírez-Casco, Andrea; Larrea-Luzuriaga, David; Guevara-Maldonado, CesarBurnout syndrome can negatively affect workers’ performance. Objective: To determine the prevalence of Burnout Syndrome and its impact on the Administrative Performance of the Human Talent at the Chimborazo Sports Federation. This study is quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional, involving 21 administrative workers. The Maslach Burnout Inventory Questionnaire was used to measure burnout, and a Job Performance Questionnaire was applied. Descriptive and correlational analyses were conducted. Results showed that 10 % had high levels of burnout, 14 % medium, and 76 % low. The most affected dimensions were personal accomplishment and depersonalization. Job performance was mostly regular (90 %). A significant correlation was found between burnout and job performance (r=0,689, p=0,001). Burnout explained 41,7 % of the variability in performance. Conclusions: There is an inverse relationship between burnout syndrome and job performance in this group of workers. Preventive measures are recommended.Ítem Solo Metadatos Effects of a dual intervention (motor and virtual reality-based cognitive) on cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment: a single-blind, randomized controlled trial(Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation. Volume 21, Issue 1, 2024) Buele, Jorge; Avilés-Castillo, Fátima; Valle Soto, Carolina de; Varela-Aldás, José; Palacios-Navarro, GuillermoBackground: The increase in cases of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) underlines the urgency of finding effective methods to slow its progression. Given the limited effectiveness of current pharmacological options to prevent or treat the early stages of this deterioration, non-pharmacological alternatives are especially relevant. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a cognitive-motor intervention based on immersive virtual reality (VR) that simulates an activity of daily living (ADL) on cognitive functions and its impact on depression and the ability to perform such activities in patients with MCI. Methods: Thirty-four older adults (men, women) with MCI were randomized to the experimental group (n = 17; 75.41 ± 5.76) or control (n = 17; 77.35 ± 6.75) group. Both groups received motor training, through aerobic, balance and resistance activities in group. Subsequently, the experimental group received cognitive training based on VR, while the control group received traditional cognitive training. Cognitive functions, depression, and the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) were assessed using the Spanish versions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-S), the Short Geriatric Depression Scale (SGDS-S), and the of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL-S) before and after 6-week intervention (a total of twelve 40-minutes sessions). Results: Between groups comparison did not reveal significant differences in either cognitive function or geriatric depression. The intragroup effect of cognitive function and geriatric depression was significant in both groups (p < 0.001), with large effect sizes. There was no statistically significant improvement in any of the groups when evaluating their performance in ADLs (control, p = 0.28; experimental, p = 0.46) as expected. The completion rate in the experimental group was higher (82.35%) compared to the control group (70.59%). Likewise, participants in the experimental group reached a higher level of difficulty in the application and needed less time to complete the task at each level. Conclusions: The application of a dual intervention, through motor training prior to a cognitive task based on Immersive VR was shown to be a beneficial non-pharmacological strategy to improve cognitive functions and reduce depression in patients with MCI. Similarly, the control group benefited from such dual intervention with statistically significant improvements. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06313931; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06313931.Ítem Solo Metadatos Redesign of the electrical power and lighting network at ice cream parlor located in the city of Quito(IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science.Open Access. Volume 1370, Issue 12024, 2024) Zurita, Kevin; Segura, Juan; Topón-Visarrea, Blanca; Barriga, Bryan; Ahmed- Gutiérrez, EdgarThis article proposes the redesign of the electrical power and lighting network in an Ice Cream Parlor located in the city of Quito to ensure continuity in the electrical service and a luminous level according to the UNE 12464.1 Standard, established in the country. For this purpose, a survey of all the electrical load installed in the organization was carried out, where the nominal parameters of each equipment were identified with the help of the nameplate of each one of them. Using the specifications of the Ecuadorian Construction Standard (NEC) and the data obtained from the electrical load survey, five (5) circuits for outlets were proposed, considering a possible expansion of small equipment and the ten (10) maximum outlets established by the aforementioned standard. Additionally, four (4) circuits were proposed to feed the power load. With respect to the lighting network, the DIAlux software is used to determine the number of lamps, luminaires and their location to comply with the luminous level indicated. Therefore, it was necessary to propose six (6) circuits in order not to exceed the fifteen (15) lighting points established by the NEC. For each circuit, the following was calculated: conductor cross section, overcurrent protection, type of insulation and the diameter of the corresponding conduit to protect the conductors. Finally, quotations were made for the materials required for the implementation of the project. From these, an organization is selected, based on the availability of the necessary materials, their cost and accessibility, compared to other suppliers. The total amount of the proposal is US$2,518.24.Ítem Solo Metadatos High levels of anxiety and depression in women farmers from Ecuador: A cross-section study in Coastal and Highlands regions(International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 2024) Siteneski, Aline; Gómez-Mieles, Viviana; Romero-Riaño, Paola; Montes-Escobar, Karime; Lapo-Talledo, German; Dueñas-Rodriguez, Andrea; Palma-Cedeño, María; Villacis-Lascano, Yliana; Echeverria-Zurita, LinconBackground: Previous studies have shown that women farmers are particularly vulnerable to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression in women farmers from Ecuador Coastal and Highlands regions. Method: General Anxiety Disorder‑7 (GAD‑7) and Patient Health Questionnaire‑9 (PHQ‑9) were applied. In addition, self-reported number of children, days off, hours of work, pesticide use, sleep habits and years of work in agriculture, were also collected. This cross-sectional study occurred during 2023 with 443 women, for Coastal (197) and Highlands (246), respectively. Multivariable binary logistic regression models were performed to obtained adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: 34.5% of Coastal women had depression, while 27.2% of Highlands women had depression. 20.3% of coastal women farmers had anxiety, while in the Highlands 24.8% had anxiety. Coastal mestizo and montubio women exhibited lower probability of depression, but this was not significant in the Highlands. Coastal women farmers that did not have children showed lower odds of depression (aOR 0.05, 95% CI [0.01, 0.34]). A lower likelihood of depression was observed in coastal women that worked more than 8 hours (aOR 0.22, 95% CI [0.07, 0.72]). Women from the Highlands that had shortened sleep duration exhibited lower odds of depression and anxiety. Conclusions: A higher proportion of depressed women farmers was observed in the Coast region and slightly higher numbers of anxiety cases in the Highlands. The number of children may cause workload and is correlated with depression in Coastal women.Ítem Solo Metadatos Analysis of thermal comfort in traditional architecture, focused on digital simulations(IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. Open Access. Volume 1370, Issue 1, 2024) Bustán-Gaona, Darío; Jiménez-Sánchez, Yomara; Paredes, Luis; Caiza, JaimeIndexed keywords Sustainable Development Goals SciVal Topics Abstract Traditional Ecuadorian architecture refers to structures whose technical and visual characteristics date from pre-Columbian times to the mid-20th century. However, such architectural interventions can still be found in the Andean region, mainly in remote villages away from urban centers. Among the architectural features, ancestral knowledge passed down through generations and a construction system based on mud, wattle and daub, adobe, and other materials. The analysis aims to develop thermoenergetic simulations to identify the thermal comfort of buildings in Pilahuin Parish Center (Ambato, Ecuador). The methodology is based on a qualitative and quantitative approach, and using non-probabilistic random sampling, the following main variables were analyzed: geographic orientation, type of layout, building height, materiality, and number of floors. After surveying and architectural drawing of the buildings, 3D models were developed using Autodesk REVIT software. Consequently, digital three-dimensional architectural models were imported into Design Builder software. This process generated a diagnosis of the current state of the buildings in terms of habitability, based on interior thermal comfort. The results showed an average indoor air temperature of 18.77°C and an average relative humidity of 50.76%. With this data, strategies were developed to improve habitability based on Olgyay's theory of architecture and climate. The resulting data, also obtained in Design Builder, allowed for a proposal to achieve the average indoor air temperature and relative humidity within the optimal ranges of Olgyay's theory and the Ecuadorian Construction Standard. Therefore, by making certain material changes while respecting their heritage value, thermal discomfort levels were improved by 27.67% compared to the analyzed interior temperature, thereby enhancing the quality of life for the inhabitants.Ítem Solo Metadatos Design of a load elevator as a measure to reduce ergonomic risks(IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. Open Access. Volume 1370, Issue 12024, 2024) Sarmiento-Ortiz, Fabian; Topón-Visarrea, Blanca; Iza, Christian; Morales, Joel; León, VecquerManual handling of loads in work environments poses significant ergonomic risks, leading to musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. To address this, mechanical solutions are essential to optimize processes and ensure employees' health and well-being. In this study utilized four methodologies: the Ergonomic Checklist, NIOSH Equation, Snook and Cirello Tables, and the INSHT Technical Guide. These tools evaluated the physical load and risks of manual lifting. Concurrently, a load lifter was developed, utilizing a tractor system powered by an electric motor and a chain hoist, all automated by a PLC. The evaluations highlighted the high risks of manual load handling. After implementation it reduced unacceptable risk to acceptable as well as the distance workers needed to manually move loads was reduced from 8 meters to 2 meters with the automatic lift, a 75% decrease and increasing process efficiency. The designed hoist has a 500 kg capacity, streamlining the product reception and storage process. The introduction of the freight elevator, as an ergonomic solution, is pivotal in reducing workplace risks and enhancing safety and efficiency. This research underscores the need to embrace advanced technologies to tackle ergonomic issues in work settings.Ítem Solo Metadatos Thermography applied to buildings as an opportunity to detect thermal bridges. Case study: Ambato, Ecuador(IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science. Open Access. Volume 1370, Issue 1, 2024) Pazmiño, Lucía; Ordóñez, Ranze; Zambrano, LizThis research analyses the existence of thermal bridges in an urban context located at 2700 meters above sea level based on the analysis of thermal images of buildings taken in different ambient temperature conditions. The objective of this research is to expand and update the spectrum of analysis and detection of thermal bridges in an urban context, where environmental conditions change and increasingly reach higher and lower extreme peaks of temperature, which is why it is necessary to establish strategies for mitigation of thermal bridges and stabilization of internal temperatures, the materiality of the building envelope plays a very important role in this study. The methodology applied in this research is of mixed approach, qualitative in relation to the analysis and collection of information with thermal cards and photographs, and quantitative due to the comparison of thermal data obtained from the analysis and energy simulation of the case study. The qualitative results were obtained through the collection of thermographic information, the simulation of the house and focus on the detection of temperature leaks in an urban context of a building built in 2019 with contemporary materials and construction systems, the quantitative results were obtained from the energy simulation, which helped determine the failures in the envelope and thus could improve the energy performance of the building. The study concludes that currently, in spite of knowing the impact generated by climate change, improvements in the configuration of the envelope available in the market are not considered, which generates a negative impact on the perception of thermal comfort inside the building, it is also important to emphasize the importance of energy simulation in construction and design, since this helps to detect problems before building and to be more optimal when remodelling buildings.Ítem Solo Metadatos Teaching Tools Based on Artificial Intelligence to Strengthen English Language Skills(Journal of Educational and Social Research. Volume 14, Issue 4, Pages 443 - 453, 2024) Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly; Morales-Urrutia, Elizabeth; Tapia, XimenaThe use of tools based on artificial intelligence is taking an important role every day in the teaching and learning processes, which is why this study promotes the use of a repository of tools based on artificial intelligence to strengthen language skills. English seeking to help students develop the four skills necessary for learning English (listening, speaking, writing and reading). For the investigative process, a mixed methodology was used, a pretest was applied, obtaining an average value of 6.3 and once the repository was used with practical activities supported by artificial intelligence tools, a post test was applied with an average rating of 9, demonstrating a very notable improvement which evidenced the improvement of language skills. It is concluded that the proposed activities based on artificial intelligence tools motivated and stimulated students, improving their academic performance in learning the English language.Ítem Solo Metadatos Systematic Review of Executive Function Stimulation Methods in the ADHD Population(Journal of Clinical Medicine. Open Access. Volume 13, Issue 14, 2024) Ramos-Galarza, Carlos; Brito, Deyaneira; Rodríguez, Brayan; Guerrero, Brenda; Cruz-Cárdenas, Jorge; Bolaños-Pasquel, MónicaIndexed keywords SciVal Topics Metrics Funding details Abstract Background/Objectives: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by elevated motor activity, impulsivity, and attention deficit. Approximately 5% of the population suffers from this disorder. Among the key explanations of ADHD, executive functions play an important role in understanding the symptomatology present in this disorder and in determining the main treatment strategies for affected patients. We present a systematic review that seeks to identify the treatment methods developed to support executive functions in individuals with ADHD. Methods: Articles were analyzed in the SCOPUS, PUBMED, and Science Direct databases. Initially, 739 articles were found. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 articles remained and were included in the data extraction process. Results: Among the primary treatments identified, 14 studies propose psychological training for executive functions, 9 studies recommend medication, 5 studies suggest digital interventions, and 1 study advocates for sports as beneficial for executive functions. Conclusions: The data are discussed around the need to develop new proposals to enhance the executive functions of individuals with ADHD, thereby improving their performance in educational, personal, social, and family activities impacted by this disorder.Ítem Solo Metadatos Governance and subjective well-being in the Countries of the Andean Community (CAN)(Heritage and Sustainable Development. Open Access. Volume 6, Issue 2, Pages 459 - 482, 2024) Núñez-Naranjo, Aracelly; Morales-Urrutia, Ximena; Martínez-Jumbo, ArielThis study presents an analysis of the relationship between governance and subjective well-being in the Andean Community of Nations. The analyzed data is sourced from the World Values Survey of Wave 7. A quantitative approach was employed to investigate perceptions and political attitudes in the region. It highlights a positive, albeit slight, connection between subjective well-being and governmental trust, along with the positive influence of perception on wealth redistribution in well-being. Despite receiving subsidies, the unemployed consistently exhibit lower satisfaction levels. Significant associations were identified between governmental trust and opinions on wealth redistribution and surveillance. Additionally, political interest is positively correlated with the preference for men to excel in politics, indicating disparities in attitudes toward gender equality. These findings underscore the complex interaction between governance, well-being, and political perceptions in the Andean region.Ítem Solo Metadatos Genotyping-by-sequencing informs conservation of Andean palms sources of non-timber forest products(Evolutionary Applications. Open Access. Volume 17, Issue 8, 2024) Peñafiel Loaiza, Nicolás; Chafe, Abigai; Moraes R, Mónica; Oleas, Nora; Roncal, JulissaConservation and sustainable management of lineages providing non-timber forest products are imperative under the current global biodiversity loss. Most non-timber forest species, however, lack genomic studies that characterize their intraspecific variation and evolutionary history, which inform species' conservation practices. Contrary to many lineages in the Andean biodiversity hotspot that exhibit high diversification, the genus Parajubaea (Arecaceae) has only three species despite the genus' origin 22 million years ago. Two of the three palm species, P. torallyi and P. sunkha, are non-timber forest species endemic to the Andes of Bolivia and are listed as IUCN endangered. The third species, P. cocoides, is a vulnerable species with unknown wild populations. We investigated the evolutionary relationships of Parajubaea species and the genetic diversity and structure of wild Bolivian populations. Sequencing of five low-copy nuclear genes (3753 bp) challenged the hypothesis that P. cocoides is a cultigen that originated from the wild Bolivian species. We further obtained up to 15,134 de novo single-nucleotide polymorphism markers by genotyping-by-sequencing of 194 wild Parajubaea individuals. Our total DNA sequencing effort rejected the taxonomic separation of the two Bolivian species. As expected for narrow endemic species, we observed low genetic diversity, but no inbreeding signal. We found three genetic clusters shaped by geographic distance, which we use to propose three management units. Different percentages of missing genotypic data did not impact the genetic structure of populations. We use the management units to recommend in situ conservation by creating new protected areas, and ex situ conservation through seed collection.Ítem Solo Metadatos Young People with Asthma on Vacation at Aqua Park—Esmeraldas(Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies. Volume 383, Pages 529 - 537, 2024) Álvarez-Sánchez, Ana; Alquinga-Quinteros, María; González-Vega, KarenThis article focuses on providing general information about Esmeraldas, one of the twenty-four provinces that make up the Republic of Ecuador. It addresses various aspects of this region, including its gastronomy, geographic location, warm climate, and the activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay. In addition, it highlights a tourist site called “Aqua Park,” which offers an exciting option to spend a pleasant vacation in the company of friends and family. Also mentioned is an interesting aspect of Esmeraldas, its role as a medicinal forest that can be beneficial for asthmatic people. Reference is made to scientific reviews that highlight the anti-inflammatory properties of certain compounds of marine origin. These compounds have demonstrated their ability to target pathogenic molecular mechanisms similar to those involved in glucocorticoid-resistant asthma. In addition, some studies have investigated the protective effects of specific formulations containing marine-derived ingredients on the airways. Although these scientific summaries do not directly address possible side effects or associated risks, they suggest that marine-derived compounds may have therapeutic potential in reducing airway inflammation in people suffering from asthma. However, it is important to note that further research is required to fully understand the safety and efficacy of these compounds in the treatment of asthma. For young asthmatics, the need to take precautions to avoid common triggers such as tobacco smoke, pollen, and dust mites is emphasized. It is also advised to be attentive to weather conditions and to avoid exposure to the open air at times of high contamination or sudden temperature changes. Finally, a warning related to the water park is offered. Although it is presented as an exciting vacation option, it is suggested that there could be asthma triggers in the area, including those mentioned above, as well as the chemicals used for the maintenance of the tourist facilities. In summary, the article provides an overview of Esmeraldas and its attractions, as well as exploring the possibility of using marine compounds in the treatment of asthma. While this possibility is raised, the need for further research to fully understand its efficacy and safety is recognized. Emphasis is placed on the importance of taking precautions for those suffering from asthma, as they may be exposed to various triggers in different environments.Ítem Solo Metadatos Wedo 2.0 and Lego Education for the Logical Development of Elementary School Children(Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. Volume 933 LNNS, Pages 390 - 400, 2024) López-Araujo, Marco; Chacón-Castro, Marcos; Gómez-Goitia, José; Arias-Flores, HugoIn order to address the limited interest of children in the area of mathematical logic, this article presents strategies aimed at enhancing the logical thinking of elementary school students. To achieve this goal, innovative educational tools were employed, specifically, Wedo 2.0 and Lego Education, which combine Lego figures with block-based programming. The motivation behind this approach is rooted in the ability of Lego objects to captivate students’ attention due to their versatility in terms of colors, shapes, and sizes. By combining these figures with block-based programming, an interactive and stimulating learning environment is created that fosters creativity and the development of logical and mathematical skills. The research methodology used was quantitative and descriptive, and the target population consisted of fourth-grade students at the Oswaldo Guayasamín Educational Unit in Ecuador. The students were divided into two parallel groups, totaling 42 participants. The results of this study revealed a positive impact on the development of students’ logical thinking. The experimental group experienced a significant increase in their average scores, moving from an initial level ranging from low to medium to a medium-high level, with an average score of 6.66. In conclusion, the implementation of educational strategies that combine Wedo 2.0 and Lego Education proved to be effective in improving the logical thinking and mathematical skills of elementary school students.