ABSTRACT The objective of this research was to analyze the effects of digital transformation in the accounting and financial sector in Ecuador. To achieve this objective, three specific objectives were established, which were: to identify the changes that digital transformation has generated in accounting and financial processes in Ecuadorian companies from various industrial sectors, to analyze the perceptions of accountants and financiers about the adoption of digital technologies in their daily tasks and how it affects their work performance, and evaluate the effectiveness of the technological solutions implemented in the accounting and financial sector in Ecuador, in terms of efficiency, cost reduction and improvement in decision making. To carry out this research, a non-experimental cross-sectional research design was used and a questionnaire was applied to 150 accountants and financiers from different companies in Ecuador. The results of the research indicate that digital transformation has had a positive impact on the accounting and financial sector in Ecuador, since it has allowed greater efficiency in processes, cost reduction, and improved decision-making. Likewise, accountants and financiers perceive that the adoption of digital technologies in their daily tasks has improved their work performance and has allowed them to focus on more strategic tasks. Regarding the technological solutions implemented in the accounting and financial sector, it was found that the most used are accounting and finance software, business resource management systems and document management systems. These solutions have proven to be effective in improving processes and reducing costs.

RESUMEN La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo analizar los efectos de la transformación digital en el sector contable y financiero en Ecuador. Para lograr este objetivo se establecieron tres objetivos específicos, que fueron: identificar los cambios que la transformación digital ha generado en los procesos contables y financieros en empresas ecuatorianas de diversos sectores industriales, analizar las percepciones de los contadores y financieros sobre la adopción de tecnologías digitales en sus tareas cotidianas y cómo afecta a su desempeño laboral, y evaluar la efectividad de las soluciones tecnológicas implementadas en el sector contable y financiero en Ecuador, en términos de eficiencia, reducción de costos y mejora en la toma de decisiones. Para llevar a cabo esta investigación se utilizó un diseño de investigación no experimental de tipo transversal y se aplicó un cuestionario a 150 contadores y financieros de diferentes empresas de Ecuador. Los resultados de la investigación indican que la transformación digital ha tenido un impacto positivo en el sector contable y financiero en Ecuador, ya que ha permitido una mayor eficiencia en los procesos, reducción de costos y mejora en la toma de decisiones. Asimismo, los contadores y financieros perciben que la adopción de tecnologías digitales en sus tareas cotidianas ha mejorado su desempeño laboral y les ha permitido enfocarse en tareas más estratégicas. En cuanto a las soluciones tecnológicas implementadas en el sector contable y financiero, se encontró que las más utilizadas son el software de contabilidad y finanzas, los sistemas de gestión de recursos empresariales y los sistemas de gestión documental. Estas soluciones han demostrado ser efectivas en la mejora de los procesos y en la reducción de costos.

Resumen: En el escenario competitivo del sector bancario, las actividades de marketing y branding se han convertido en un elemento crucial para el éxito a largo plazo de las instituciones financieras. Desde la gestión del brand equity, la confianza y la lealtad son esenciales, no solo en los procesos operativos con los usuarios, sino en la consolidación de la marca como un activo estratégico. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la multidimensionalidad del brand equity para el sector bancario desde la perspectiva de la generación Z. Se desarrolla un estudio de tipo cuantitativo, analítico y de corte transversal, utilizando el análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio a partir de un instrumento aplicado de forma on line a personas pertenecientes a este segmento generacional. Los hallazgos infieren que el brand equity en el sector bancario dirigido a la generación Z está conformado por las siguientes dimensiones: fidelidad e importancia de la marca (FIM), calidad percibida (CP), asociación de marca (AM), rendimiento de la marca (RM) y conciencia de la marca (CM). Se concluye que el sector bancario debe seguir consolidando su brand equity como actividad estratégica a partir de dichas dimensiones, fortaleciendo el posicionamiento de sus marcas, su participación y su orientación al mercado, garantizando el entendimiento de las necesidades, deseos y comportamientos de la generación Z.

Abstract: In the competitive scenario of the banking sector, marketing and branding activities have become a crucial element for the long-term success of financial institutions. From the perspective of brand equity management, trust and loyalty are essential, not only in the operational processes with users, but also in the consolidation of the brand as a strategic asset. The aim of this research was to analyse the multidimensionality of brand equity for the banking sector from the perspective of Generation Z. A quantitative, analytical, and cross-sectional study was carried out, using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis based on an instrument applied online to people belonging to this generational segment. The findings infer that brand equity in the banking sector aimed at Generation Z is made up of the following dimensions: brand loyalty and importance (BLI), perceived quality (PQ), brand association (BA), brand performance (BP) and brand awareness (BA). It is concluded that the banking sector must continue to consolidate its brand equity as a strategic activity based on these dimensions, strengthening its brand positioning, market share and market orientation, ensuring an understanding of the needs, desires, and behaviours of Generation Z.

Resumen La alta demanda laboral impuesta por la naturaleza del emprendimiento puede resultar abrumadora. Los trabajadores autónomos suelen asumir múltiples roles, desde la gestión financiera hasta las operaciones diarias, en un entorno empresarial no siempre favorable. Esta acumulación de responsabilidades, además de un desafío práctico, impacta de manera significativa la capacidad de los emprendedores para manejar eficazmente el estrés. Desde esta perspectiva, el estudio tiene como objetivo analizar implicaciones de factores internos y externos que influyen en las manifestaciones de estrés de los trabajadores autónomos, fundadores de pequeñas empresas en la provincia Manabí, Ecuador. Utilizando una metodología cuantitativa y aplicando regresión logística, los resultados revelan una significativa afectación en los niveles de estrés de este colectivo, sobre todo, por las deudas adquiridas, las extensas horas laboradas que limitan el ocio y el bienestar familiar y algunos obstáculos de índole externo como el acceso a la financiación, regulaciones aduaneras y comerciales, la competencia, la ausencia de demanda y la incertidumbre económica. Este estudio no solo proporciona una visión profunda de las experiencias de estrés de los trabajadores autónomos, sino que también destaca la necesidad urgente de políticas específicas que aborden estos desafíos y fomenten un entorno empresarial más saludable.

Abstract The high labor demand imposed by the nature of the venture can be overwhelming. Freelancers often take on multiple roles, from financial management to daily operations, in a business environment that is not always favorable. This accumulation of responsibilities, in addition to being a practical challenge, significantly impacts entrepreneurs' ability to effectively manage stress. From this perspective, the study aims to analyze the implications of internal and external factors that influence the manifestations of stress of self-employed workers, founders of small businesses in the province of Manabí, Ecuador. Using a quantitative methodology and applying logistic regression, the results reveal a significant impact on the stress levels of this group, especially due to the debts acquired, the long hours worked that limit leisure and family well-being, and some external obstacles. such as access to financing, customs and trade regulations, competition, lack of demand and economic uncertainty. This study not only provides deep insight into the stress experiences of freelancers, but also highlights the urgent need for targeted policies that address these challenges and foster a healthier business environment.

Abstract In Costa Rica, there are significant challenges regarding wastewater treatment. This study evaluated the management of municipal wastewater in Costa Rica, with emphasis on the technological profile, the use of anaerobic systems, and the recovery of generated by-products. A mixed approach was used, combining secondary information from databases, expert consultations, and participatory workshops. It was found that most existing systems work with activated sludge and direct discharge to receiving bodies. Additionally, significant gaps were identified for the implementation of anaerobic systems for wastewater treatment. From a technical standpoint, the lack of training and confidence in designing and operating these systems was noted, along with the relevance of controlling the treatment of emerging contaminants. From an economic standpoint, the lack of financial sustainability of projects, low capacity for user payment, and lack of incentives or tiered tariff systems were identified. Within institutional gaps, the main issue was the need for clearer sectoral leadership and avoiding duplication of functions. All the above requires robust and clear regulations that allow for innovation in the systems to be implemented. Finally, it was found that, for the circular economy principle to become a reality, cultural change is required, and the paradigm that wastewater is only meant for disposal must be changed.

Resumen En Costa Rica, existen grandes desafíos en materia de tratamiento de aguas residuales. Este trabajo evaluó la gestión de aguas residuales ordinarias en Costa Rica, dando énfasis al perfil tecnológico, al uso de sistemas anaeróbicos y a la recuperación de los subproductos generados. Se consideró un abordaje mixto, combinando información secundaria de bases de datos, consultas a expertos y talleres participativos. Se logró evidenciar que la mayoría de los sistemas que existen trabaja con lodos activados y con vertido directo a cuerpo receptor. Además, se evidenciaron brechas importantes para la implementación de los sistemas de tratamiento de aguas residuales, en especial para los sistemas anaeróbicos. Desde el punto de vista técnico, se identificó la falta de capacitación y de confianza en diseñarlos y operarlos, aunado a la relevancia de controlar el tratamiento de contaminantes emergentes; desde el punto de vista económico, se apunta hacia la falta de sostenibilidad financiera de los proyectos y poca capacidad de pago de los usuarios, falta de incentivos o de sistemas tarifarios escalonados; dentro de las brechas institucionales, la principal es la necesidad de tener una rectoría más clara del sector y evitar la duplicidad de funciones. Se demostró que lo anterior requiere ir ligado de una normativa robusta y clara, que permita la innovación en los sistemas a implementar. Finalmente, se pudo detectar que, para que el principio de economía circular sea una realidad, se requiere trabajar en un cambio cultural y en romper el paradigma de que las aguas residuales solo sirven para desecharlas.

ABSTRACT Semi-hydroponic systems are an alternative for vegetable production, combining inert substrates and nutrient solutions and requiring less water. Bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a vegetable species of the Solanaceae family that is mainly grown in protected environments, which provide several financial and agronomic advantages for their management. Advancements in research and the need for high-quality productions have significantly contributed to this horticultural crop through the selection of productive cultivars with high economic yields and adapted to favorable conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate growth, physiological, and production characteristics of colored bell pepper cultivars in a semi-hydroponic system. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, using four colored pepper cultivars (Spinel, Bachata, Fulgor, and Red Jet), five evaluation times (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after transplanting - DAT) for growth variables, and evaluations at two developmental stages (45 and 95 DAT) for physiological variables. Production and post-harvest variables were not evaluated in different times, considering only the cultivar factor, with five replications, each plot consisting of two plants. Chlorophyll a and b, maximum fluorescence, and water use efficiency were greater in bell pepper plants of the cultivar Spinel. The sweetest fruits were those of the cultivar Bachata. The cultivar Fulgor was the most suitable for growth under the studied conditions due to its greater fruit length and diameter and total fruit weight. Semihydroponic Semi hydroponic Capsicum L. L environments management highquality quality semihydroponic semi system design Spinel, Spinel (Spinel Bachata Jet, Jet , Jet) 7, 7 (7 14 21 28 3 DAT 45 (4 9 postharvest post harvest factor replications b fluorescence weight ( 1 2 4

RESUMO O sistema semi-hidropônico é uma alternativa para a produção de hortaliças, pois combina substrato inerte e solução nutritiva, necessitando de menos água. O pimentão é uma hortaliça da família Solanaceae, principalmente produzida em ambiente protegido, apresentando diversas vantagens financeiras e agronômicas no seu manejo. Com os avanços nas pesquisas e a necessidade de uma produção de qualidade, selecionar cultivares produtivas e com alto rendimento econômico, adaptadas às condições favoráveis, torna-se um grande avanço para esta cultura hortícola. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o crescimento, características fisiológicas e produtivas das cultivares Red Jet, Spinel, Bachata e Fulgor em sistema semi-hidropônico. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com quatro cultivares de pimentão colorido (Spinel, Bachata, Fulgor e Red Jet) subdivididas em cinco épocas de avaliação (7, 14, 21, 28 e 35 dias após transplantio - DAT) para as variáveis de crescimento e duas épocas (45 e 95 DAT) de avaliação para fisiologia. As variáveis produtivas e pós-colheita não foram subdivididas no tempo, levando-se em consideração apenas o fator cultivar para estas variáveis, com cinco repetições, sendo cada parcela composta por duas plantas. Os índices de clorofila a e b, fluorescência máxima e eficiência no uso da água foram maiores nas plantas de pimentão da cultivar Spinel. Os frutos mais doces foram obtidos com a cultivar Bachata. A cultivar Fulgor foi a mais indicada para cultivo nas condições estudadas devido ao maior comprimento, diâmetro e peso médio dos frutos. semihidropônico semi hidropônico hortaliças nutritiva Solanaceae protegido manejo qualidade econômico favoráveis tornase torna se hortícola Jet Spinel semihidropônico. hidropônico. (Spinel 7, 7 (7 14 21 2 3 DAT 45 (4 9 fisiologia póscolheita pós colheita tempo levandose levando repetições b comprimento ( 1 4

ABSTRACT The criminalization of abortion and restricted access to misoprostol in Brazil force women to seek unsafe methods to terminate a pregnancy. Hospital care for miscarriage or abortion is standard. In contrast, telemedicine for the medical management of miscarriage and abortion is the gold standard of care internationally. This article presents the Atenas Program – an unprecedented initiative for first trimester abortion/miscarriage care, aiming at a humanized out-of-hospital service based on telephone monitoring by nurses, allowing women to choose the method of uterine evacuation (expectant, medical or surgical). For this purpose, ethnographic research was carried out in a northeastern public maternity hospital, between 2014 and 2021. In the context of structural and conjunctural difficulties, among the 723 Atenas participants, 73,6% dispensed with hospital admission for miscarriage and abortion resolution: 58,4% occurred spontaneously and 15,2% through hospital misoprostol. No complications were registered. Telephone monitoring by nurses provided the basis for continuity of individualized care for this invisibilized public. Atenas Program, initiative of a SUS institution run without external financial support, represents an advance in humanized care for women with miscarriage and abortion. It should be extended to the entire public health network, to expand access to rounded and humanized care for abortion and miscarriage.

RESUMO A criminalização do aborto no Brasil e o acesso restrito ao misoprostol obrigam mulheres a buscarem métodos inseguros para sua indução. Atenção hospitalar ao aborto induzido ou espontâneo é padrão. Na contracorrente, no cenário internacional, a telessaúde no aborto medicamentoso é padrão ouro da atenção às perdas gestacionais, espontâneas ou induzidas. Este artigo apresenta o Programa Atenas iniciativa inédita de atenção ao aborto no primeiro trimestre gestacional – com foco no atendimento extra-hospitalar, através de monitoramento telefônico por enfermeiras, facultando às mulheres escolher o método de esvaziamento uterino (expectante, medicamentoso ou cirúrgico), com vistas à humanização da atenção. Foi realizada pesquisa etnográfica, em maternidade pública nordestina, entre 2014 e 2021. No contexto de dificuldades estruturais e conjunturais, 723 participantes foram atendidas; 73,6% prescindiram de hospitalização para resolução do aborto: 58,4% ocorreram de forma espontânea e 15,2% através do misoprostol hospitalar. Não houve registro de complicações. O monitoramento telefônico promoveu vínculo e cuidado individualizado a este público invisibilizado. Esta iniciativa orgânica do SUS, sem apoio financeiro de órgãos externos, representa um avanço na atenção humanizada às mulheres com aborto. Recomenda-se estender a toda rede pública de saúde, visando ampliação do acesso a um cuidado integral e humanizado no aborto.

BACKGROUND. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the weakness of relying on in-person tuition in higher education. Massive open online courses (MOOCs) have been a successful addition to higher education. In this study, educators had to replace a planned elective in the medical curriculum with an online option during the pandemic. The roles of the competency framework of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) (Leader and Manager, Health Advocate, Professional, Communicator, Collaborator, Scholar, and Healthcare Practitioner) were used to guide its development. This elective emphasised the non-clinical roles of medical practitioners and was offered in 2020 and 2021. OBJECTIVES. To describe the choices of third-year medical students and time spent participating in a modified online elective in 2020 and 2021. METHODS. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used, involving the participation of 629 medical students. Data were collected and analysed from three primary sources: registration data from LinkedIn Learning, data from the Foundation for Professional Development, and self-reported estimates by students of the average time spent on selected courses. Data included identification of the associated competency acquired. Data analysis was conducted using Python, version 3.10.11. RESULTS. The course choices of 629 students were analysed. In 2020 there were 300 participants and in 2021 there were 329. All the students had one compulsory inclusion in the elective (Management and Leadership Short Course for Undergraduate Healthcare Students). Students in both years reported spending the most average time on courses related to clinical knowledge (Healthcare Practitioner), followed by financial literacy and management (Professional), diversity management (Collaborator), and priority actions to identify and/or respond to (Health Advocate). The most popular courses related to the Leader and Manager role were around decision-making in human resources, problem-solving, and managing healthcare teams. Based on the top 10 LinkedIn Learning course selections of both cohorts, there appeared to be a preference for courses that were consistent with the role of medical professionals in practice. The most popular LinkedIn Learning course was The Six Morning Habits of High Performers. CONCLUSION. Students gravitated toward courses aligned with their role as professional doctors within the HPCSA competency framework. More studies are needed to understand how medical students develop the six non-clinical roles in the HPCSA framework and the effectiveness of MOOCs in a medical curriculum.

Resumo: Este manuscrito aborda a atribuição de valores na autoavaliação da pós-graduação, especificamente no Mestrado em Saúde Integral e Movimento Humano (MSIMH) da Universidade Nacional da Costa Rica com base nas diretrizes nacionais de acreditação. Destaca-se a importância de realizar este trabalho de forma sistemática e organizada, com uma fundamentação clara, para se conseguir uma análise objetiva dos aspectos que garantem a qualidade do curso. Diferentes agentes estiveram envolvidos no processo de autoavaliação, incluindo gestores, funcionários administrativos, professores, estudantes e tutores. Os resultados revelaram que as dimensões “Recursos” e “Processo Educativo” são centrais, com especial atenção para os componentes relativos a “Infraestruturas”, “Pesquisa” e “Corpo Docente”. Embora, componentes como a ementa e a metodologia de ensino e aprendizagem sejam relevantes, destaca-se também a importância da gestão académica e financeira para o desenvolvimento e sustentabilidade do curso. Em pesquisas futuras, recomenda-se contrastar os resultados da ponderação com os resultados da autoavaliação do MSIMH para identificar pontos fortes e áreas de melhoria em relação aos valores ponderados estabelecidos. Em síntese, este estudo salienta a importância da atribuição de valores adequados na autoavaliação da pós-graduação e promove a participação de múltiplos atores neste processo. Este documento serve de guia para novos processos de atribuição de valores nesta modalidade de acreditação.

Resumen: Este estudio, realizado en 2022, aborda la asignación de valores en la autoevaluación de posgrados, específicamente, en la Maestría en Salud Integral y Movimiento Humano (MSIMH) de la Universidad Nacional, con base en el Manual Oficial de Acreditación de carreras de Posgrado del Sistema Nacional de Acreditación (SINAES). Se destaca la importancia de realizar esta labor de manera sistemática y organizada, con un fundamento claro, para lograr un análisis objetivo de los aspectos que aseguran la calidad de la carrera. Además, se involucran diferentes agentes en el proceso de autoevaluación, incluyendo responsables, personal administrativo, docentes, estudiantes y tutores. Los resultados revelan que las dimensiones “Recursos” y “Proceso Educativo” son centrales, con una atención especial en los componentes “Infraestructura”, “Investigación” y “Personal académico”. Aunque componentes como el plan de estudio y la metodología de enseñanza y aprendizaje son relevantes, también se resalta la importancia de la gestión académica y financiera para el desarrollo y sostenibilidad de la carrera. En futuras investigaciones, se recomienda contrastar los resultados de la ponderación con los hallazgos de la autoevaluación de la MSIMH para identificar fortalezas y áreas de mejora en relación con los valores ponderados establecidos. En resumen, este estudio destaca la importancia de asignar valores adecuados en la autoevaluación de posgrados y promueve la participación de múltiples actores en este proceso. Por lo tanto, este documento sirve como guía para nuevos procesos de asignación de valores en este tipo de acreditaciones.

Abstract: This manuscript addresses value assignment in the self-evaluation of postgraduate programs, specifically in the Master’s Degree in Integrative Health and Human Movement (MSIMH) of the National University of Costa Rica, based on the national accreditation guidelines. It emphasizes the importance of carrying out this work in a systematic, organized, and clear manner to objectively analyze the aspects that guarantee the quality of the program. Different actors participated in the self-evaluation process, including managers, administrators, teachers, students, and tutors. The results showed that the dimensions “Resources” and “Educational Process” are fundamental, and that special attention should be given to the components “Infrastructure”, “Research” and “Academic Staff”. Although components such as curriculum and teaching and learning methodology are relevant, it also highlights the importance of academic and financial management for the development and sustainability of the program. It is recommended that future research should contrast the results of the weighting with the results of the MSIMH self-evaluation to identify strengths and areas for improvement in relation to the established weighted values. In short, this study highlights the importance of assigning appropriate values in the self-evaluation of postgraduate programs and encourages the participation of multiple stakeholders in this process. This document can be used as a guide for new processes of value assignment for this type of accreditation.

ABSTRACT Public procurement is crucial for the proper functioning of a country, but unfortunately, it can face problems that undermine its efficiency and transparency. For this reason, this research analyzes the top 23 companies that sold over $2.21 billion to the Ecuadorian government between 2015 and 2020. A descriptive methodology and a quantitative approach were used to classify the companies based on their origin, economic activity, and financial situation. The results reveal that 67% of these companies are of Ecuadorian origin. In terms of their financial situation, although they have a strong liquidity position, financing expenses completely dilute their profits, resulting in a negative net profit margin. This finding suggests the need to establish public policies that promote the diversification of economic sectors and the implementation of effective financial management strategies in contracting companies to improve their profitability and long-term financial sustainability.

RESUMEN La contratación pública es crucial para el buen funcionamiento de un país, pero desafortunadamente puede enfrentar problemas que perjudican su eficiencia y transparencia. Por este motivo, esta investigación analiza las 23 principales empresas que entre 2015 y 2020 vendieron más de 2.21 mil millones de dólares con el Estado ecuatoriano. Se utilizó una metodología descriptiva y un enfoque cuantitativo para clasificar a las empresas según su origen, actividad económica y situación financiera. Los resultados revelan que el 67% de estas empresas son de origen ecuatoriano. En cuanto a su situación financiera, aunque tienen una posición sólida en términos de liquidez, los gastos del financiamiento diluyen en su totalidad las utilidades, generando una rentabilidad neta de ventas negativa. Este hallazgo sugiere la necesidad de establecer políticas públicas que promuevan la diversificación de los sectores económicos y la implementación de estrategias de gestión financiera efectivas en las empresas contratistas para mejorar su rentabilidad y sostenibilidad financiera en el largo plazo.

Resumen (Introducción): El cultivo de madera sostenible pierde terreno ante la producción agrícola y otros usos de la tierra; para contrarrestar esto, es necesario entender de qué manera el ente productor toma decisiones en la adopción voluntaria de sistemas agrícolas. Por consiguiente, deben diseñarse esquemas de manejo ajustados a cómo los pequeños productores gestionan los sistemas productivos de una forma voluntaria. (Objetivo): Identificar los factores que influyen en el proceso de toma de decisiones de los pequeños grupos productores que deben ser considerados para la promoción del cultivo de madera. (Metodología): Se aplicaron encuestas con preguntas abiertas y selección única al 100 % de los entes productores (N = 77) de dos asentamientos del INDER. Por la complejidad de las interacciones entre factores, se simplificó el análisis a cuatro enfoques. La tendencia de los datos se graficó a partir de un modelo de regresión local (LOESS), en el cual la curva de regresión se generó y suavizó con el uso de la función geom_smooth del lenguaje estadístico R. (Resultados): Se identificó un total de 162 interacciones entre factores indirectos y directos, estas mismas se clasificaron en tres grupos según las veces que el sujeto productor cambió de sistema de producción en periodos cortos (cinco años). Así, el Grupo A tuvo una mayor representación en la población con un 67.5 %, le siguieron el Grupo B con un 24.7 % y el Grupo C con un 7.8 %. El 67.5 % no se encontraba de acuerdo en incluir el cultivo de madera. (Conclusiones): Se demostró la existencia de factores de decisión que influyen en cómo el sujeto productor adopta los sistemas agrícolas contrarios al cultivo de madera. La venta segura (VS) es uno de ellos; por lo tanto, hasta que no se ajusten los esquemas de manejo forestal actuales, la posibilidad de una adopción espontánea es mínima y seguirá necesitando de ayudas financieras.

Abstract (Introduction): Sustainable timber cultivation is losing ground to agricultural production and other land uses; To counteract this, it is necessary to understand how the farmer makes decisions. Therefore, management schemes must be designed that adjust to the way in which small farmers manage productive systems on a voluntary basis. (Objective): Identify the factors that influence the decision-making process of small farmers that must be considered for the promotion of timber cultivation. (Methodology): Surveys with open questions and single selection were applied to 100% of the farmers (N = 77) of two INDER settlements. Due to the complexity of the interactions between factors, the analysis was simplified into four approaches. The data trend was plotted from a local regression model (LOESS), in which the regression curve is generated and smoothed with the use of the geom_smooth function of the R statistical language. (Results): A total of 162 interactions between Indirect and Direct factors. They were classified into three groups according to the number of times the farmer changed the production system in short periods (5 years). Group A has a greater representation in the population with 67.5 %, followed by Group B with 24.7 % and Group C with 7.8 %. 67.5 % of the farmers did not agree to include the cultivation of wood. (Conclusions): It was possible to demonstrate the existence of decision factors that influence the way in which the farmers adopt the agricultural systems contrary to the cultivation of wood. Safe selling (VS) is one of them; therefore, until current forest management schemes are adjusted, the possibility of spontaneous adoption is minimal and will continue to require financial aid.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot syndrome is defined as the presence of a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) associated with neuropathy, peripheral artery disease and infection. While the use of antimicrobials in the treatment of DFU infection remains a mainstay, the choice of antimicrobial remains problematic owing to the presence of multidrug-resistant polymicrobial infections. In the South African public healthcare sector, the treatment of DFUs is based on the Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) and the Essential Drug List. These guidelines are developed using evidence-based medicine and are based on global susceptibility patterns rather than local susceptibility data, and may not provide the most appropriate treatment options OBJECTIVES: To determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of DFUs isolated from patients visiting selected Gauteng provincial public hospitals in order to determine a clinically effective treatment protocol for the management of these infections METHODS: Sample swabs were taken from 51 DFUs using the Levine method. Each sample swab was spread onto blood agar plates and thereafter, individual pathogens were isolated. The antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of all isolated pathogens were determined using zone of inhibition measurements. Pathogens were grouped according to macromorphological characteristics as well as susceptibility patterns, and a representative isolate from each group was then identified RESULTS: A total of 51 DFU ulcer swabs from 45 patients were included in the study. From the sample swabs, a total of 445 pathogens were isolated. The most effective antimicrobial was found to be gentamicin, followed by ciprofloxacin. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, the first line treatment according to the STGs, was found to be ineffective for many of the isolated pathogens. The most commonly isolated pathogens were Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate the urgent need to reassess the STGs and base treatment plans on local epidemiological data. This study provides valuable data on common causative pathogens in DFU infections, as well as the resistance patterns of these pathogens, forming a baseline with which to base future DFU treatment plans

RESUMO A criminalização do aborto no Brasil e o acesso restrito ao misoprostol obrigam mulheres a buscarem métodos inseguros para sua indução. Atenção hospitalar ao aborto induzido ou espontâneo é padrão. Na contracorrente, no cenário internacional, a telessaúde no aborto medicamentoso é padrão ouro da atenção às perdas gestacionais, espontâneas ou induzidas. Este artigo apresenta o Programa Atenas iniciativa inédita de atenção ao aborto no primeiro trimestre gestacional – com foco no atendimento extra-hospitalar, através de monitoramento telefônico por enfermeiras, facultando às mulheres escolher o método de esvaziamento uterino (expectante, medicamentoso ou cirúrgico), com vistas à humanização da atenção. Foi realizada pesquisa etnográfica, em maternidade pública nordestina, entre 2014 e 2021. No contexto de dificuldades estruturais e conjunturais, 723 participantes foram atendidas; 73,6% prescindiram de hospitalização para resolução do aborto: 58,4% ocorreram de forma espontânea e 15,2% através do misoprostol hospitalar. Não houve registro de complicações. O monitoramento telefônico promoveu vínculo e cuidado individualizado a este público invisibilizado. Esta iniciativa orgânica do SUS, sem apoio financeiro de órgãos externos, representa um avanço na atenção humanizada às mulheres com aborto. Recomenda-se estender a toda rede pública de saúde, visando ampliação do acesso a um cuidado integral e humanizado no aborto. indução contracorrente internacional gestacionais induzidas extrahospitalar, extrahospitalar extra hospitalar, extra-hospitalar enfermeiras expectante, expectante (expectante cirúrgico, cirúrgico , cirúrgico) etnográfica nordestina 201 2021 conjunturais 72 atendidas 736 73 6 73,6 584 58 4 58,4 152 15 2 15,2 complicações invisibilizado SUS externos Recomendase Recomenda se saúde 20 202 7 73, 5 58, 1 15,

ABSTRACT The criminalization of abortion and restricted access to misoprostol in Brazil force women to seek unsafe methods to terminate a pregnancy. Hospital care for miscarriage or abortion is standard. In contrast, telemedicine for the medical management of miscarriage and abortion is the gold standard of care internationally. This article presents the Atenas Program – an unprecedented initiative for first trimester abortion/miscarriage care, aiming at a humanized out-of-hospital service based on telephone monitoring by nurses, allowing women to choose the method of uterine evacuation (expectant, medical or surgical). For this purpose, ethnographic research was carried out in a northeastern public maternity hospital, between 2014 and 2021. In the context of structural and conjunctural difficulties, among the 723 Atenas participants, 73,6% dispensed with hospital admission for miscarriage and abortion resolution: 58,4% occurred spontaneously and 15,2% through hospital misoprostol. No complications were registered. Telephone monitoring by nurses provided the basis for continuity of individualized care for this invisibilized public. Atenas Program, initiative of a SUS institution run without external financial support, represents an advance in humanized care for women with miscarriage and abortion. It should be extended to the entire public health network, to expand access to rounded and humanized care for abortion and miscarriage. pregnancy contrast internationally abortionmiscarriage outofhospital expectant, expectant (expectant surgical. surgical . surgical) purpose 201 2021 difficulties 72 participants 736 73 6 73,6 resolution 584 58 4 58,4 152 15 2 15,2 registered support network 20 202 7 73, 5 58, 1 15,

Abstract The National Institute of Biodiversity of Costa Rica (INBio), the first institution of its kind worldwide, was created in 1989 as a civil society organization, with the mission of promoting greater awareness of the value of biodiversity, to achieve its conservation and promote human development. It operated within the framework of a national biodiversity conservation strategy consisting of three types of actions: “save, know and use”, forming a publicprivate alliance with the National System of Conservation Areas, whose work represented the first step of “saving”. INBio focused on the generation of scientific knowledge of Costa Rican biodiversity (knowing) and the search and promotion of its intelligent use (using). This article describes the genesis of the institution and its main contributions to the knowledge and use of Costa Rican biodiversity between 1989-2015. These include the results of the protected areas biodiversity inventory process and the development of the largest systematic collection of biological specimens in the country’s history, fully systematized; the development of an information management system that integrated all the information from the inventory and the specimens in its collection in digital format, allowing global access to this information or its correlation with that of other sources. The results of promoting and facilitating the use of information through five programs: Natural Sciences and Conservation Biology, for scientific purposes; Bioliteracy and Education, conceptually designed for the teaching and development of awareness about the value of biodiversity; Bioprospecting, the systematic search for economic uses of biodiversity for medicinal, agricultural and industrial purposes; Conservation for Development, the use of the information for wild areas conservation purposes, surrounding communities or nature tourism, among others; Technical Assistance and Training, program in charge of assisting public and private entities, inside and outside the country, in the development of initiatives in which Biodiversity was the central element. The main results of its work and the national and international awards that INBio received for its innovative approaches and contributions are described, as well as the financial and political reasons why INBio discontinued its activities in the period 2015-2016 are summarized. Viewing the work of INBio as a first stage, the importance and need to continue with a state program on the knowledge and use of Costa Rican biodiversity is raised, in addition to its protection, with the goal of creating awareness of its value before the serious threats to life on Earth.

Resumen El Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad de Costa Rica (INBio), la primera institución en su género en el mundo, fue creado en 1989 como una organización de la sociedad civil, con la misión expresa de promover una mayor conciencia del valor de la biodiversidad, para lograr su conservación y fomentar el desarrollo humano. En el marco de una estrategia nacional de conservación de la biodiversidad consistente en tres tipos de acciones: “salvar, conocer y utilizar”, se conformó una alianza público-privada con el Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación, cuya labor representó el primer paso de “salvar”. El INBio se centró en la generación de conocimiento científico de la biodiversidad costarricense (el “conocer”) y en la búsqueda y promoción de su uso inteligente (el “usar”). Este artículo describe la génesis de la institución y sus principales aportes al conocimiento y la utilización de la biodiversidad costarricense en el período 1989-2015. Estos incluyen los resultados del proceso de inventario de la biodiversidad de las áreas protegidas y el desarrollo de la colección sistemática de especímenes biológicos más grande en la historia del país, totalmente sistematizada; el desarrollo de un sistema de manejo de información que integró en formato digital toda la información del inventario y de los especímenes de su colección, permitiendo el acceso global a estos datos o su correlación con la de otras fuentes. Los resultados de la promoción y la facilitación del uso de la información se lograron mediante cinco programas: Ciencias Naturales y Biología de la Conservación, con fines científicos; Bioalfabetización y Educación, conceptualmente diseñados para la enseñanza y el desarrollo de la conciencia del valor de la biodiversidad; Bioprospección, la búsqueda sistemática de usos económicos de la biodiversidad para fines medicinales, agrícolas e industriales; Conservación para el Desarrollo, el empleo de la información para la conservación de áreas silvestres, comunidades circunvecinas o turismo naturalista, entre otros; y Asistencia Técnica y Capacitación, programa encargado de asistir a entidades públicas y privadas, dentro y fuera del país, en el desarrollo de iniciativas en que la biodiversidad fuera el elemento central. Se describen los principales resultados de su labor y los reconocimientos nacionales e internacionales que el INBio recibió por sus novedosos enfoques y aportes, al igual que se resumen las razones de carácter financiero y político por las cuales el INBio descontinuó sus actividades en el período 2015-2016. Vista la labor del INBio como una primera etapa, se plantea la importancia y necesidad de continuar con un programa estatal sobre el conocimiento y uso de la biodiversidad costarricense, en adición a su protección, con el fin último de que exista conciencia de su valor ante las serias amenazas para la vida en el planeta.

Abstract (Introduction): The bioeconomy addresses a series of problems in key areas for the Latin American region. As a result, a growing number of countries worldwide have developed bioeconomy policies or strategies, the Costa Rica Strategy beings the first in the region. (Objective): The aim of this article is to analyze the opportunities and challenges of the advanced bioeconomy, emphasizing the biotechnology sector, to contribute to the Costa Rican productive and sustainable development. (Methodology): The approach applied is qualitative based on primary and secondary sources, and ongoing reflection and discussion. (Results): As a result, it is found that despite facing structural barriers and challenges such as market aspects, coordination governance, waste management, availability and use of biological, financial, educational, social resources, among others; the bioeconomy is positioned along with biotechnology as a great opportunity to develop valorization and management of waste, enhance productive processes and value chains with high added value related to research, development and innovation, knowledge, competitiveness, encouraging the generation of employment, new exports and access to more and better markets. (Conclusions): It is possible to conclude that the aforementioned can be applied in harmony with natural ecosystems and social welfare that can even be replicated in other countries of the region contributing to improve the social, economic and environmental challenges.

Resumen (Introducción): La bioeconomía aborda una serie de problemas en áreas clave para la región latinoamericana. Debido a esto, cada vez más países el mundo han elaborado políticas o estrategias de bioeconomía, siendo la Estrategia de Costa Rica la primera en la región. (Objetivo): El objetivo de este artículo es analizar las oportunidades y desafíos que enfrenta la bioeconomía avanzada, haciendo énfasis en el sector biotecnológico, para contribuir al desarrollo productivo y sostenible en Costa Rica. (Metodología): El enfoque utilizado es cualitativo con uso de fuentes primarias y secundarias, así como la reflexión y discusión permanente. (Resultados): Como resultado del análisis se encuentra que, pese a una serie de barreras estructurales y retos de mercado, articulación, gobernanza, gestión de residuos, disponibilidad y aprovechamiento de recursos biológicos, financieros, educativos, sociales, entre otros; la bioeconomía se posiciona con la biotecnología como una gran oportunidad para gestionar y valorar los residuos, procesos productivos y encadenamientos con alto valor agregado, incorporando investigación, desarrollo e innovación, conocimiento, competitividad, propiciando la generación de nuevos empleos, exportaciones, acceso a más y mejores mercados. (Conclusiones): Es posible concluir que todo esto puede ser realizado en armonía con los ecosistemas naturales y el bienestar social e incluso replicado en otros países de la región para coadyuvar al mejoramiento de las problemáticas sociales, económicas y ambientales.

Resumen La administración como técnica clásica de planificación, estrategia y organización total de recursos ha sido diseñada, especialmente, con el objetivo de extraer el máximo de beneficios según los recursos disponibles. El ser humano se incorpora como recurso para fines organizacionales, pero expresa su subjetividad en busca de su deseo y proyección en el marco de las exigencias institucionales. De ahí que sea viable contextualizarla bajo la visión de balance y equilibrio. Por ello, se expone como una propuesta teórica novedosa en donde la definición de “beneficio” se extiende más allá de la utilidad financiera, modelos positivistas y reduccionistas, por cuanto se plantea una revisión de la literatura en la que todo sujeto (natural o corporativo) se identifique como un ente valorador de la maximización del beneficio bajo un balance entre el entorno y el esfuerzo realizado.

Abstract Administration as a classic technique of planning, strategy and total organization of resources designed, especially, with the aim of extracting the maximum benefits according to the available resources. The human being is incorporated as a resource for organizational purposes, but expresses his subjectivity in search of his desire and projection in the framework of institutional demands. Hence, it is feasible to contextualize it under the view of balance and equilibrium. Therefore, it is exposed as a novel theoretical proposal where the definition of "benefit" extends beyond financial utility, positivist, and reductionist models, since, a review of the literature is proposed in which every subject (natural or corporate) is identified as an entity valuing the maximization of profit under a balance between the context and the effort made.