Journal of Advances in Education, Sciences and Humanities
The Journal of Advances in Education, Sciences and Humanities (e-ISSN 3091-1583), published by Publis Editorial, an editorial unit of Publisciencia S.A.S. (R.U.C.: 1391936852001, Portoviejo, Ecuador), is established as a multidisciplinary academic space to promote the development of quality research in areas related to educational sciences, pure and applied sciences, and humanities. The journal, which publishes periodically with a semiannual frequency (January-June and July-December), seeks to promote the dissemination of knowledge among professors, researchers, and students of disciplines such as Pedagogy, Psychology, Social Sciences, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Linguistics, Literature, History, and Philosophy, among others. All submissions must be original, unpublished, and not under simultaneous consideration by other journals or publication outlets. The journal strictly rejects all forms of plagiarism, self-plagiarism, and duplication of previously published work, utilizing similarity detection checks as part of its editorial process.
Civil society and legal culture: basic ideas about a consistent and inevitable relationship
The essay examined the essential relationship between civil society and legal culture in the Cuban context, emphasizing the need to enhance legal education among the population of Sancti Spíritus through an interdisciplinary and interinstitutional approach. Based on an in-depth review of specialized literature and normative documents, it argued that legal culture constitutes a fundamental pillar of the socialist project, promoting knowledge, the conscious practice of legality, and citizen participation. In Cuba, civil society maintains a close relationship with the State, oriented toward collective well-being and the strengthening of national identity. Non-governmental organizations, as legitimate expressions of this civil society, play a relevant role in political and ideological debate, decision-making, and civic education, without contradicting the social project. Several challenges were identified, such as gaps in legal knowledge, insufficient media coverage, and the need to deepen theoretical understanding of the role of the State, legality, and hegemony. Finally, it became evident that the improvement of legal culture constituted a strategic objective to consolidate a more conscious, participatory, and cohesive society around its social and normative principles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vania González, Marcel A. Díaz, Arturo M. Arias, Flavia M. Vargas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategic proposals for the modernization of the public administration of Portoparques EP in Portoviejo, Ecuador
The modernization of public administration is a key process for increasing the efficiency, transparency, and quality of services provided by public sector institutions. Within this framework, the public company Portoparques EP, responsible for managing green areas and cemeteries in the canton of Portoviejo (Ecuador), faces the challenge of transforming its organizational model to respond more effectively and promptly to citizens' needs. This study analyzes the progress made in the administrative modernization of Portoparques EP by examining initiatives related to digitalization, streamlining administrative procedures, professionalizing human talent, and enhancing citizen participation. In addition, the main barriers hindering institutional development are identified, including resistance to change, lack of technological resources, and the absence of an innovation-oriented organizational culture. Based on this diagnosis, strategic proposals are formulated to enhance the operational capacity and social impact of this local public enterprise.
Copyright (c) 2026 Halder D. Lucas, Stella M. Iriarte (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Experience of clinical simulation as a learning tool in the development of competencies in nursing education
Clinical simulation emerges as a primary tool in nursing education, enabling students to develop essential competencies through simulated scenarios where they can practice both technical and non-technical skills, receive immediate feedback, and experience real-life situations without the risks associated with direct patient care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation as a methodological strategy in nursing education. A quantitative and descriptive study design was employed, utilizing a validated survey of 111 sixth-semester nursing students at the University of Manabí. The results showed that 52% of respondents considered simulation to be useful for learning, and 40% reported an increase in their safety and confidence when facing clinical situations. Additionally, 49% stated that simulation helped them integrate theory and practice, reflecting its effectiveness in the educational process. It is concluded that clinical simulation is presented as a valuable strategy in nursing education, favoring the acquisition of critical competencies and improving student confidence.
Copyright (c) 2026 Martha S. Quiroz, Aida M. Macías, Delia G. Bravo, Mery Y. Mendoza (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Stage art as an innovative didactic resource for the development of creativity in five-year-old children
Stage art emerged as an innovative pedagogical strategy that allowed children to learn playfully while developing cognitive and emotional competencies. The study aimed to design a system of didactic activities to foster creativity in five-year-old children through theatrical practices. Using a descriptive, mixed-methods approach that incorporated empirical techniques such as observation and interviews, as well as theoretical methods including historical-logical, analytical-synthetic, and inductive-deductive reasoning, the study identified several difficulties among children, including stage fright, emotional insecurity, and limitations in bodily expression. It was also evident that teachers required training in innovative methodologies related to performing arts. The findings highlighted the importance of implementing flexible and contextually relevant didactic activities that can enrich teaching practices and promote integral development in early childhood, with the potential to be adapted to various educational contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Carmen M. Zambrano (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Social skills and school coexistence in children aged 4–5: a literature review
This study reviews recent literature on social skills and school climate in children aged 4 to 5 years, with the aim of synthesizing key theoretical and empirical advances in this field. The analyzed studies show that, during this stage, children consolidate fundamental socio-emotional competencies such as self-regulation, empathy, communication, and peaceful conflict resolution, which directly contribute to the quality of school climate. Evidence indicates that factors such as family environment, educational setting, and teacher involvement significantly influence the development of these skills. Likewise, effective interventions are identified, including play-based strategies, emotional education, and cooperative learning activities. However, important challenges persist, particularly in Latin American contexts, where limitations are reported in teacher training and in the resources available to implement socio-emotional strategies. The review concludes that strengthening pedagogical practices and promoting collaboration between school and family are key elements to fostering more inclusive educational environments and enhancing socio-emotional development in early childhood.
social skills; school climate; early childhood education; social–emotional development
Copyright (c) 2026 Jennifer Caicedo Vega, Cecilia Isabel Vega Játiva (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gamification in the learning of Health Sciences students: a systematic review
A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines to analyze the impact of gamification on Health Sciences education. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were consulted, including studies published between 2015 and 2025 that evaluated the effect of gamification on students in this field. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and assessing methodological quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale, 27 studies were selected. Eighty percent of these reported improvements in knowledge retention, student motivation, and engagement. However, there was heterogeneity in the types of games used and the evaluation methods applied. In conclusion, gamification appears to be an effective pedagogical strategy, although its impact depends on the design of the activity and its integration into the curriculum. Further longitudinal studies are recommended to assess its long-term effects.
information and communication technologies
Copyright (c) 2025 Jorge A. Fernández (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Genesis, evolution, and improvement of the management of Canal Educativo Dos of Cuba: its key processes
In Cuba, all television is publicly owned and plays a significant social and cultural role. Each television channel has its unique characteristics in terms of programming and function. The management of interrelated processes as a system is a topic of current and necessary research for efficiently improving television production in the Canal Educativo Dos Budget Unit. A mixed-methodology approach, combining theoretical and empirical methods, is employed. The genesis of the channel is described, along with the functions for which it was created. From 2004 to the present, the channel has gone through three stages, the characteristics of which are evident in this work. A diagnosis of the channel's current situation is made, and its weaknesses, threats, strengths, and opportunities are described. The quality management work carried out is analyzed, which demonstrated the need to refine its process map by improving and completing the information related to key processes. This paper proposes the design of a new key process map, comprised of four processes. Diagrams for each process and their corresponding sheets are developed to improve the organization's quality management. This will ultimately lead to greater efficiency in television production on Canal Educativo Dos.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dámaris Valero, Indira Pavot, Roberto de Armas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Digital marketing plan proposal for promoting Umbral in Ecuador
This project developed a digital marketing plan proposal to promote Umbral, a product recognized for its effectiveness in treating migraines and headaches. A thorough analysis of the Ecuadorian market revealed a significant increase in internet access, reaching 80% of the population, representing a key opportunity to promote the product through digital platforms. The strategy focuses on enhancing Umbral's visibility and recognition by emphasizing its quality and safety through educational content on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, as well as collaborations with influencers and healthcare professionals. The diagnosis identified strengths, such as the variety of pharmaceutical presentations, and threats, including generic competition and strict regulations. Actions include digital content production, promotions, retailer training, and educational campaigns, aiming to position Umbral as a leader in the over-the-counter medication market in Ecuador, addressing the needs of an increasingly digitalized consumer.
Copyright (c) 2025 Darío F. Guacho, Alexandra M. Menéndez, Esteban F. Naranjo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Social perception of La Rotonda Park in Portoviejo, Ecuador
This study examined the social perception of La Rotonda Park in Portoviejo, Ecuador, which is recognized as a symbol of resilience following the 2016 earthquake. Opened in 2017, the park has played a vital role in urban and community revitalization. The objective was to assess how the community perceives inclusion, safety, facility quality, identity, and social cohesion associated with the park. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys from 250 users with 15 semi-structured interviews conducted with key informants. Results revealed highly positive perceptions of identity and belonging (M = 4.38), social inclusion (M = 4.25), and facility quality (M = 4.12). In contrast, safety scored lower (M = 3.65), particularly among older adults and infrequent visitors. Interviews highlighted the park’s symbolic value as an intergenerational gathering space and emotional recovery site following a disaster, but also pointed to challenges in nighttime safety and maintenance. The study concludes that La Rotonda Park serves as a model for inclusive and resilient urban planning, whose long-term value depends on sustained and participatory management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Oscar A. Muñoz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Prehospital management and postoperative course of patients with acute appendicitis treated at the Jipijapa Basic Hospital in Ecuador
Acute appendicitis is a typical medical emergency, the prehospital management of which can vary significantly, impacting postoperative patient outcomes. The general objective of this study is to analyze the prehospital management and postoperative evolution in patients with acute appendicitis treated at this hospital. This analysis is based on an observational, retrospective, and descriptive methodology applied from May 2021 to May 2022. The study population includes all patients operated on for acute appendicitis at the hospital, and a sample of 219 patients who meet the established inclusion criteria was selected. The specific results of the study include a detailed characterization of the sociodemographic characteristics of patients with acute appendicitis, the establishment of the prehospital management practices currently applied, the determination of the evolution patterns and postoperative complications, and the identification of the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and postoperative complications, delving into how distances, time and other sociodemographic conditions impact outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Edwin Escobar, Alfredo L. Marín, Nancy Toledo, Cristhian S. Macías (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Microencapsulation of bioactive compounds in the food industry
The microencapsulation of bioactive compounds is a widely used technology in the food industry to protect and enhance the functionality of bioactive ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, and essential fatty acids. This process involves encapsulating bioactive particles in a matrix, usually made of natural or synthetic polymers, forming microcapsules that improve the compounds’ stability, controlled release, and bioavailability. Among the most commonly used techniques are spray-drying, coacervation, and extrusion, chosen based on the properties of the compound to be encapsulated and the desired applications. During food processing and storage, these technologies protect sensitive compounds from adverse factors such as oxidation, moisture, light, or extreme pH. Microencapsulation allows for the controlled release of bioactive compounds at the right time and place, improving their effectiveness in the body, an essential property in functional foods and nutraceuticals. This review aimed to analyze the microencapsulation techniques used in the food industry to protect and improve the functionality of bioactive compounds such as vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, and essential fatty acids.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dania Torres, Alicia Casariego, Mario A. García (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Nanoplastics in the environment: sources, impacts, and challenges
Nanoplastics, defined as plastic particles with dimensions less than 1 μm, represent a growing environmental concern due to their ubiquity and potential adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. This review article analyses the primary sources of nanoplastics, their distribution in different environmental compartments (water, soil, and air), and their mechanisms of toxicity in aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Current methodologies for their detection and characterization are also examined, including spectroscopic, chromatographic, and electron microscopy techniques, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Despite progress in understanding the presence and impact of nanoplastics, significant research gaps remain, particularly about their bioaccumulation, interactions with emerging contaminants, and long-term effects on human health. Potential strategies to mitigate their impact are also identified, such as improved plastic waste management, developing biodegradable materials, and implementing stricter regulatory policies. Developing new detection methods and adopting sustainable strategies are essential to reduce the burden of nanoplastics in ecosystems and minimize their risks to public health.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daliannis Rodríguez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gamification as a didactic strategy for teaching Mathematics in elementary education
The study aimed to develop a methodological proposal by applying gamification strategies to encourage mathematics learning among elementary school students at the Sathya Saim Fiscomisional Educational Unit (Sucre, Bahía de Caráquez, Manabí). The research employed qualitative and quantitative methods; in the qualitative approach, interviews and observations were used, as they were considered the most appropriate for profoundly understanding the topic under investigation. In the quantitative approach, the survey technique was applied, facilitating data collection and interpretation regarding gamification as a strategy in Mathematics. The study involved 30 students and four teachers who underwent a diagnostic process in which gamification strategies were implemented to assess their feasibility in Mathematics. As a result of this investigative process, it was found that gamification is a motivating tool that promotes the use of innovative strategies by teachers, strengthening students’ knowledge and enriching the didactics, which improved the teaching-learning process in Mathematics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Cruz B. Zambrano (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Educational activities for learning to read and writethrough pictograms in children aged 4-5 years
Developing reading and writing in children aged 4 to 5 years requires teaching strategies that promote text comprehension through visual resources and structured diagrams. In this context, the present study aimed to design a system of teaching activities based on pictograms to improve the learning of reading and writing in children in sublevel II of the Isidoro Barriga Educational Unit (Puerto López, Ecuador). With a descriptive and transversal approach, the research included an intentional sample of 29 children aged 4 to 5 years and 10 teachers selected by participation and permanence criteria. Surveys were applied to teachers, and classroom observations were carried out to diagnose the level of recognition of pictograms and difficulties in communicating ideas. The results showed limitations in oral and written expression and the identification and use of pictograms. Teachers indicated that these resources facilitate reading comprehension and the development of reading and writing skills. In response, a system of activities structured into objectives, procedures, and evaluation indicators was designed. Its validation by specialists confirmed its relevance and viability, highlighting the importance of innovative methodologies. It is concluded that pictograms strengthen the construction of knowledge and improve the association between images and words, recommending their integration into initial literacy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Katty K. Oviedo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Chronic urticaria in children treated in a private basic hospital in the city of Portoviejo
Chronic urticaria is defined as spontaneously appearing hives, daily or almost daily, for most days for more than 6 weeks. This study, carried out at the Private Basic Hospital “Clínica Dei Bambini” in Portoviejo between February 2023 and February 2024, analyzed this condition’s clinical and epidemiological profile in pediatric patients. Thirty-two patients between 1 and 18 years of age were included, whose anonymized medical records were reviewed. The observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study used theoretical and empirical methods and applied descriptive statistics to process the data. The results indicated that most cases corresponded to children aged 1 to 10 years, predominantly males, living in urban areas and with parents of middle socioeconomic level and basic or secondary education. In most cases, urticaria was classified as “unspecified”, with no family history of the disease. Food was the most common trigger, followed by exposure to chemicals and medications. The most common symptoms included hives, itching, fever, and shortness of breath. The average duration of episodes was 6 to 8 weeks, and the most commonly used treatment was first-line second-generation H1 antihistamines, mainly loratadine.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yuliana C. Mera, Freddy A. Bravo, Nancy Toledo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Advances in rapid and traditional methods for microbiological control in food: a comprehensive approach to food safety
Food safety is a global challenge that demands effective methods for detecting and controlling pathogenic microorganisms in food. Traditional methods, while reliable, require extended time and significant resources. Rapid methods have emerged in response to these limitations, incorporating physicochemical, immunological, and molecular techniques and biosensors and miniaturized systems. This narrative review examines the key advances in rapid methods for microbiological control of food, highlighting their applications, advantages, and limitations. It concludes that implementing these techniques can optimize analytical processes, strengthening global food safety.
The summoned memory of the COVID-19 pandemic: dying in a world interconnected by networks
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly transformed the perception of death, a topic previously confined to private spheres but now widely discussed on social media. This article reflects on the pandemic's impact on the concept of mortality, particularly in societies characterized by hedonism and death denial. It examines how digital technologies enabled new forms of mourning, often marked by isolation and virtuality, and explores the ethical and social implications of dying alone. Finally, it highlights the importance of human presence as an essential component of dignity in the final moments.
Copyright (c) 2025 José R. Abreu, Richard Cesín, Luis R. Muñoz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Pictogram use on literacy development in 4- and 5-year-old children at Isidoro Barriga Public Educational Unit, Ecuador
Pictograms are visual tools that facilitate the learning of reading and writing, especially at an early age. Their implementation promotes text comprehension, idea expression, and the development of communicative skills. This research aimed to identify the level of literacy learning through pictograms in 4 and 5-year-old children at the Isidoro Barriga Public Educational Unit. The research, descriptive with a mixed approach, allowed for determining the initial state of literacy development through theoretical methods such as analysis-synthesis, induction-deduction, and empirical methods based on the application of surveys to teachers. It was identified that 4-5-year-old children were at an intermediate stage of literacy development, indicating the need to strengthen their skills. Difficulties in communicating their ideas and understanding pictograms in class were observed.
Neonatal sepsis markers used at Portoviejo General Hospital
Neonatal sepsis is an invasive infectious disease that affects children under 28 days of age and is characterized by potentially fatal organ dysfunction due to the dysregulation of the neonate's response to invasive microorganisms. It is classified into early sepsis, manifested within the first 72 hours of life, and late sepsis, occurring after this period, representing a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. The objective was to evaluate the sepsis markers used at the General Hospital of Portoviejo. The qualitative-quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective observational study included 42 reports of neonatal sepsis markers obtained from anonymized medical records of newborns diagnosed with sepsis between July and December 2022. Descriptive statistics and the Pearson coefficient were applied to analyze the correlation between variables. Most cases involved male neonates, full-term births, children of mothers aged 26 to 35 years, and those from rural areas. Late sepsis predominated, and procalcitonin was the most sensitive marker, with elevated levels in all cases. A significant relationship was found between procalcitonin and the diagnosis of sepsis, the medical history or risk factors, and respiratory distress as a clinical manifestation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ginger L. Mero, Yaritza M. Moreira, Nancy Toledo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Methodology for preparing and evaluating frozen meals from the cold area at Havana Catering Base Business Unit
The study's objective was to develop a methodology for preparing and evaluating frozen meals from the cold area at the Havana Catering Base Business Unit. Services with adequate conditions for freezing storage and subsequent commercialization were selected. Freezing did not yield positive results due to the defrosting time of the juice. Among the five dishes suitable for freezing were a snack, a cold dish, a cold cuts appetizer, a sandwich, and a vegetable appetizer. The sensory evaluation of the products was carried out by a sensory evaluation committee composed of the center's staff. The cold dish underwent rapid freezing and microbiological and sensory quality assessments. The stability of the dish was maintained for 30 days, as determined by the deterioration of its sensory quality. A methodology integrated the procedures for preparing and evaluating frozen meals from the cold area, including storage conditions, sampling time, number of samples, microbiological analysis, sensory evaluation methodology, and defrosting conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Naia Castro, Mario A. García, Alicia Casariego, Julia M. Espinosa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Gamification as an active learning strategy through clinical cases: impact on medical training
Gamification has become an innovative educational strategy, especially in medical training because it promotes active learning and student engagement. This review article aims to analyze the impact of gamification in medical education, identifying its benefits, limitations, and the challenges associated with its implementation. Recent studies evaluating the use of gamified elements, such as serious games, interactive applications, and clinical simulations, in teaching theoretical and practical skills were reviewed. The results indicated that gamification enhances motivation and enjoyment of learning, promotes critical thinking development, and facilitates knowledge retention, even in complex clinical scenarios. However, barriers such as resistance to change from teaching staff and the need for adequate technological resources were also identified.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mayda Beltrán, Denise Vega (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Chronic urticaria in children: epidemiology, diagnosis, and management
Pediatric urticaria is a common skin disorder affecting 15-20% of children at some point in their lives, with prevalence and causes varying by geographic region. It primarily occurs in older children and is triggered by food allergies, medications, insect bites, viral infections, or other factors. In its chronic form, characterized by recurrent wheals and itching persisting for more than six weeks, it significantly impacts the quality of life of children and their families due to symptom recurrence and management challenges. While in countries like Spain and Germany, it ranks among the leading allergic diseases, data in Latin America is limited. In Ecuador, 57% of cases have an idiopathic etiology, and medications are the most frequent trigger, with an average age of 7.7 years for the first episode. This review analyzes the clinical and epidemiological evidence of chronic pediatric urticaria, focusing on its prevalence in Latin America, to guide early diagnosis strategies and effective management in pediatrics.
Development of gross motor skills: contributions to motor activity in 3-year-old children
Gross motor skills are one of the areas of psychomotor development that contribute to the child's overall development. Early stimulation of motor skills enables the acquisition of precise movements that allow the child to experience new abilities. In this sense, it is a skill acquired for mastering large movements and movements. This study aimed to design a system of educational activities for stimulating gross motor skills in 3-year-old children. In this descriptive-exploratory study, using a mixed approach, the instruments employed were direct observation guides for the children and interviews with the teachers. It was shown that gross motor development primarily depends on the maturation of the children's muscles, making it necessary to understand the degree of development and the level of stimulation in the motor area of tone and muscle strength. Gross motor skills refer to the movement of the large parts of the body and encompass emotional and intellectual aspects, making them a fundamental tool for the child's holistic development.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gema L. Loor (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Preanalytical criteria for collecting blood culture samples in the Microbiology area at Portoviejo General Hospital
The General Hospital of Portoviejo serves a high demand of patients with suspected infections, bacteremia, or sepsis, highlighting the importance of performing high-quality blood cultures. This study characterized errors in the preanalytical sample collection phase for the microbiological diagnosis of bacteremia through blood cultures. Existing laboratory protocols were analyzed and compared with national and international standards, focusing on asepsis, blood volume, biosafety, and techniques. Information was gathered through surveys conducted with healthcare personnel involved in sample collection, identifying key issues such as the need for more specific protocols, inadequate containers for sample transportation, and the presence of personnel in training. Although more than half of the respondents followed the correct sample collection and transport procedures, a significant proportion still needed to meet the standards. As a result, a standardized operational procedure was developed based on good laboratory practices in Ecuador and internationally to improve the quality of blood cultures in the hospital.
Copyright (c) 2025 Carlos E. Mera, Jean P. Sanclemente, Ivón Howland (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Risk of chronic non-communicable diseases in workers at a health rehabilitation center
A cross-sectional study was conducted in a health rehabilitation center to identify workers' risks of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Food preferences, physical activity, and toxic habits were analyzed through surveys. Anthropometric indicators (BMI, waist circumference, and waist/hip ratio) and biochemical indicators (hemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glycemia) were determined. The results showed that most workers were overweight, with 13.69% obese. More than 75% had central obesity, correlated with waist circumference and waist/hip ratio. The 62.7% had a sedentary lifestyle, while 28% showed impairments in iron nutritional status. A significant percentage presented high risks of chronic diseases related to glycemia, cholesterol, and triglycerides; 7% of cases showed severe impairments in two of these variables. Frequent cigarette consumption was reported by 22% of workers, a habit that elevates the risk of degenerative diseases.
Copyright (c) 2025 Patricia M. Espinel, Jesenia E. Rodríguez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Hygienic management in hotel facilities, food safety, and service quality
This review emphasizes the importance of hygienic management in the hospitality and food service sectors, focusing on ensuring food safety and service quality. It highlights the need for rigorous hygiene practices, advanced safety systems, and staff training to meet consumer demands and prevent foodborne diseases. The study identifies food safety as a complex issue requiring interdisciplinary integration. It discusses key practices, including sanitation in preparation, storage, and service, alongside strategies to address microbial, chemical, and physical hazards. Best practices for training food handlers, ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices, and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points are outlined. The review explores advancements in microbial detection, regulatory frameworks, and the development of standardized protocols. It also examines challenges like resistant microbial strains and emphasizes sustainable waste management in tourism-related food services. The analysis advocates for a holistic approach to hygienic management, prioritizing consumer safety, enhancing operational quality, and building trust in food systems. These insights provide valuable guidance for industry professionals and policymakers in the tourism and gastronomy fields.
Copyright (c) 2025 Daliannis Rodríguez, Verónica B. Samaniego-Puertas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A comprehensive review of advances in biomarkers for the early diagnosis and management of neonatal sepsis
Neonatal sepsis markers are key tools for early diagnosis and monitoring this condition in newborns. Neonatal sepsis is a severe infection that can be difficult to identify due to its nonspecific clinical presentation. C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and blood cultures are the most common markers. CRP is an acute-phase protein that increases in response to inflammation and can help detect sepsis, although its sensitivity improves with repeated measurements within the first 24-48 hours of symptoms. PCT, another acute-phase reactant, rises rapidly in bacterial sepsis, making it useful for early diagnosis and monitoring the response to antibiotic treatment. Blood cultures remain the standard for confirming the diagnosis, although their sensitivity can vary. New markers such as presepsin and endocan are under investigation, but their use remains limited. Combining these biomarkers and clinical assessment enhances the ability to differentiate sepsis from other conditions and guides appropriate treatment. Early identification and timely treatment are crucial to reducing mortality and complications associated with neonatal sepsis.
Development and evaluation of sorghum-based spirits with potential for whisky production
A spirit was developed from sorghum to evaluate its potential application in whisky production. An acid hydrolysis process was employed at a pressure of 1.3 atm for four hours at 124 °C to extract nutrients from the grain. The resulting culture medium, maintained at 30 °C, was filtered and neutralized before adding Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast for alcoholic fermentation. The spirit was obtained by distilling the fermented medium. The alcohol content, acidity, and pH of the sorghum spirits and the sorghum and corn mixtures were determined. The results showed that the sorghum flour's particle size significantly influenced alcohol yield, with the lowest yield associated with larger particle sizes (1000-2000 µm). The alcohol yield of the spirits obtained from flour mixtures showed no significant differences. However, the 50% sorghum and corn flour mixture tended to increase this parameter compared to the other spirits. Sensory evaluators rated the spirits made with a 1:1 mixture of sorghum and corn flour as "Acceptable", suggesting its potential as a raw material for whisky production.
Copyright (c) 2025 Yailén García-Mirabal, Oscar Ros, Mario A. García (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Carbon monoxide levels in workers at the Cerro de Guayabal Toll Booth, Ecuador
Carboxyhemoglobin is formed when CO binds to hemoglobin with an affinity 240 times greater than oxygen. This research aimed to evaluate carbon monoxide (CO) levels in the Cerro de Guayabal toll booth workers, located on the Portoviejo-Manta highway, km 9 ½. This analytical, descriptive, prospective, and cross-sectional field study determined the risk of CO exposure by measuring the carboxyhemoglobin percentage (%COHb) at the beginning of the workday. The study included 33 workers who spent more than eight hours daily at the toll booth and were exposed to CO emissions from motor vehicles. A case-control design was used, comparing the results of the exposed workers (cases) with a control group that was not exposed but had similar demographic characteristics. The %COHb measurement was conducted in the morning to ensure the accuracy of the results. The data revealed that the toll area, with approximately 20,000 vehicles passing per hour, represents a potential health risk for the workers.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mercedes K. Montes, María E. Moreira, Ivón Howland (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Educational communication and its relationship with school discipline in the classroom
This research aimed to identify the relationship between educational communication and school discipline in the classroom. It is important to highlight that indiscipline is a destructive behavior that does not promote peace and coexistence. The teacher's role is essential in the student's communication process. The methodology applied was a meta-analysis through a systematic review of different databases. The search criteria were titles related to the research, communicative education, and discipline in the classroom. With a descriptive review approach that positively influences the development of a strategy that strengthens teaching-learning. In the meta-analysis from the evaluation of 10 studies that included a total sample of 487 students. This analysis allowed us to demonstrate the existence of a high heterogeneity (I² = 99.83%) and significance (z = -0.8090, p = 0.4185), so it can be stated that there is a correlation between the variables educational communication and discipline in the classroom. Measurement indicators such as respect for rules, conduct regulation, and frustration management were identified.
Copyright (c) 2025 Diana Ganchozo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0