Abstract Introduction: Leptodactylus latinasus and Physalaemus cuqui are sympatric anuran species with similar environmental requirements and contrasting reproductive modes. Climatic configuration determines distribution patterns and promotes sympatry of environmental niches, but specificity/selectivity determines the success of reproductive modes. Species distribution models (SDM) are a valuable tool to predict spatio-temporal distributions based on the extrapolation of environmental predictors. Objectives: To determine the spatio-temporal distribution of environmental niches and assess whether the protected areas of the World Database of Protected Areas (WDPA) allow the conservation of these species in the current scenario and future. Methods: We applied different algorithms to predict the distribution and spatio-temporal overlap of environmental niches of L. latinasus and P. cuqui within South America in the last glacial maximum (LGM), middle-Holocene, current and future scenarios. We assess the conservation status of both species with the WDPA conservation units. Results: All applied algorithms showed high performance for both species (TSS = 0.87, AUC = 0.95). The L. latinasus predictions showed wide environmental niches from LGM to the current scenario (49 % stable niches, 37 % gained niches, and 13 % lost niches), suggesting historical fidelity to stable climatic-environmental regions. In the current-future transition, L. latinasus would increase the number of stable (70 %) and lost (20 %) niches, suggesting fidelity to lowland regions and a possible trend toward microendemism. P. cuqui loses environmental niches from the LGM to the current scenario (25 %) and in the current-future transition (63 %), increasing the environmental sympathy between both species; 31 % spatial overlap in the current scenario and 70 % in the future. Conclusion: Extreme drought events and rainfall variations, derived from climate change, suggest the loss of environmental niches for these species that are not currently threatened but are not adequately protected by conservation units. The loss of environmental niches increases spatial sympatry which represents a new challenge for anurans and the conservation of their populations.

Resumen Introducción: Leptodactylus latinasus y Physalaemus cuqui son especies de anuros simpátricos con requerimientos ambientales similares y modos reproductivos contrastantes. La configuración climática determina los patrones de distribución y promueve la simpatría de los nichos ambientales, pero la especificidad/selectividad determina el éxito de los modos reproductivos. Los modelos de distribución de especies (MDE) son una herramienta valiosa para predecir distribuciones espacio-temporales basadas en la extrapolación de predictores ambientales. Objetivos: Determinar la distribución espacio-temporal de los nichos ambientales y evaluar si las áreas protegidas de la base de Datos Mundial de Áreas Protegidas (DMAP) permiten la conservación de estas especies en el escenario actual y futuro. Métodos: Aplicamos diferentes algoritmos para predecir la distribución y superposición espacio-temporal de nichos ambientales de L. latinasus y P. cuqui dentro de América del Sur en el último máximo glacial (UGM), Holoceno medio, actual y futuro. Evaluamos el estado de conservación de ambas especies con las unidades de conservación de la DMAP. Resultados: Todos los algoritmos aplicados mostraron un alto rendimiento para ambas especies (TSS = 0.87, AUC = 0.95). Las predicciones de L. latinasus mostraron amplios nichos ambientales desde LGM hasta el escenario actual (49 % de nichos estables, 37 % de nichos ganados y 13 % de nichos perdidos), sugiriendo fidelidad histórica por regiones climático-ambientales estables. En la transición actual-futura L. latinasus incrementaría la cantidad de nichos estables (70 %) y perdidos (20 %), sugiriendo fidelidad por regiones de tierras bajas y la posible tendencia hacia el microendemismo. P. cuqui pierde nichos ambientales desde el LGM al escenario actual (25 %) y en la transición actual-futura (63 %), incrementando la simpatría ambiental entre ambas especies; 31 % de superposición espacial en el escenario actual y 70 % en el futuro. Conclusión: Los eventos de sequía extrema y las variaciones de precipitaciones, derivados del cambio climático, sugieren la pérdida de nichos ambientales para estas especies, actualmente no se encuentran amenazadas, pero no están adecuadamente protegidas por las unidades de conservación. La pérdida de nichos ambientales aumenta la simpatría espacial que representa un nuevo desafío para estos anuros y la conservación de sus poblaciones.

Abstract: The integration of electric mobility is real nowadays. Government policies increasingly focus on encouraging the use of electric vehicles (EVs); particularly, replacing conventional public mobility with electric buses. An adequate energy management of electric bus systems must optimize resource usage, and extend the lifespan of transport units and charging stations, while providing quality service to users. The performance of the EV transport system depends on various deterministic and stochastic variables that need to be accurately simulated to analyze its behavior as closely as possible to real conditions. In this study, a model for the energy analysis of EVs has been implemented, by using the software SUMO (Simulation of Urban Mobility) and applying it to public transport routes in Quito, Ecuador. Through the executed simulations, energy consumption has been estimated and, a sensitivity analysis of the energy consumption of electric bus units to the variations in relevant parameters in the energy management of public transport systems, has been carried out. The impact of certain parameters on energy consumption has been verified, by indicating a significant decrease in the autonomy of EVs on the simulated route under very similar to reality operating conditions. For study case, autonomy reduction of electric bus is around 27% in comparison with manufacturer's specifications. The analysis of energy performance under various traffic scenarios will allow future optimizations of the electric public transport system operation, since traffic levels, variable traffic flow, and pronounced changes in terrain elevation, are considered.

Resumen: La integración de la movilidad eléctrica es una realidad en el mundo actual, las políticas gubernamentales se enfocan cada vez más en incentivar el uso de vehículos eléctricos (VE) particulares, pero, principalmente en reemplazar la movilidad pública convencional por el uso de buses eléctricos. Una adecuada gestión energética de los sistemas de buses eléctricos debe optimizar el uso de recursos, prolongando la vida útil de las unidades de transporte, estaciones de carga y brindando siempre un servicio de calidad a sus usuarios. El desempeño del sistema de transporte mediante VE depende de diversas variables determinísticas y estocásticas que necesitan ser debidamente simuladas a fin de analizar su comportamiento, lo más cercano a las condiciones reales. En el presente trabajo, mediante la aplicación del software SUMO (Simulation of Urban Mobility), se ha implementado un modelo para el análisis energético de VE y se lo ha aplicado en rutas de transporte público en Quito-Ecuador. A partir de las simulaciones realizadas se ha estimado el consumo energético y se ha efectuado un análisis de sensibilidad del consumo energético de las unidades de buses eléctricos ante variaciones de parámetros relevantes en la gestión energética de sistemas de transporte público. Para el caso de estudio se comprueba la reducción de la autonomía del bus eléctrico en 27% de acuerdo con la información del fabricante. El análisis del desempeño energético realizado bajo diversos escenarios de tráfico permitirá en futuros trabajos optimizar la operación de los sistemas de transporte público eléctrico, considerando niveles de tráfico, flujo vehicular variable y pronunciados desniveles en su relieve.

Absttract This study focuses on the forest cover of three districts in the urban area of the province of Andahuaylas, Apurímac region, Peru, which is facing deforestation problems. The objective was to determine the forest cover in the urban area of the province of Andahuaylas until 2030, to reveal future scenarios of forest cover, contributing to the development of urban planning and the creation of sustainable cities. For the study area, data recorded between the years 2017-2023 were used, based on NDVI images from the Sentinelhub portal. This allowed for the availability of information on tropical and temperate forests, shrubs and grasslands, arid rock zones, and urban or artificial areas that have changed due to the urbanization process. The forest surfaces in the study area were determined. Subsequently, linear regression was used with a p-value = 0,046, reaching an R2 of 0,583 in a medium range, managing to estimate future forest scenarios by 2030. It is concluded that the trend is decreasing in forest cover by 26,50% by the year 2030.

Resumen Este estudio, se centra en la cobertura forestal de tres distritos en el ámbito urbano de la provincia de Andahuaylas, región Apurímac en Perú, la cual afronta problemas de deforestación. El objetivo fue determinar la cobertura forestal en el área urbana de la provincia de Andahuaylas hasta el 2030, para la revelación de los escenarios futuros de la cobertura forestal, contribuyendo al desarrollo de la planificación urbana y a la creación de ciudades sostenibles. Para el área de estudio, se utilizaron datos registrados entre los años 2017-2023, a partir de las imágenes NDVI del portal Sentinelhub. Permitiendo disponer de información de bosques tropicales y templados; arbustos y pastizales; zonas áridas de roca; áreas urbanas o artificiales que han cambiado como consecuencia del proceso de urbanización. Se determinaron las superficies de bosque en el área de estudio. Posteriormente se utilizó la regresión lineal con un p valor = 0,046, alcanzando un R2 de 0,583 en un rango medio, logrando estimar los escenarios futuros del bosque al 2030. Se concluye que la tendencia es decreciente en la cobertura forestal en 26,50% al año 2030.

Resumen Ecuador es un pequeño país andino ubicado en el hemisferio occidental de América del Sur. El país cuenta con 361.747 hm 3 anuales de recursos hídricos superficiales. Como resultado, Ecuador, en los últimos quince años (2005 a 2020), ha estado desarrollando proyectos hidroeléctricos para triplicar la producción en esta fuente renovable. Hubo ocho nuevas centrales hidroeléctricas construidas en Ecuador entre 2007 y 2015, en donde se invirtieron cerca de USD 6 mil millones en los proyectos, lo que incrementó la respuesta energética con renovables; por ejemplo, en 1985 el país produjo 4 TWh, en 2005 registró 7 TWh y hasta 2020, 24 TWh. Según la Corporación de Electricidad del Ecuador en 2020 informó que generó alrededor del 80% de toda la electricidad a través de hidroelectricidad. Así, el artículo tiene como objetivo analizar críticamente el desarrollo de la energía hidroeléctrica en Ecuador en los últimos años y establecer proyecciones energéticas generales al 2030 para ampliar los campos de conocimiento y perspectivas. La metodología del trabajo es cuantitativa, de acuerdo con fuentes editoriales científicas, artículos, documentos de investigación, y recolecta datos de agencias gubernamentales que regulan el desarrollo energético en Ecuador. Se concluye que, mediante un cálculo de proyecciones, Ecuador necesitará para el año 2030 alrededor de 43 TWh, 47 TWh o 52 TWh para abastecer la red energética, según los escenarios propuestos (bajo, medio, alto). Si bien la energía hidroeléctrica será fundamental para contribuir a este requerimiento, el país tiene una barrera porque la energía hidroeléctrica es muy sensible a factores externos de diversa índole, generando un futuro incierto directamente asociado a los efectos climáticos.

Abstract Ecuador is a small Andean country located in the western hemisphere of South America. The country has 361,747hm 3 annual superficial water resources; As a result, Ecuador, in the last fifteen years (2005 to 2020), has been rapidly developing hydropower projects to triple the production in this renewable source. There were eight new hydroelectric plants constructed in Ecuador among 2007 and 2015 invested close to USD 6 billion the projects. Increased the energy response with renewables; for example, in 1985, the country produced 4 TWh, in 2005-registered 7 TWh, and to 2020, 24 TWh. According to the Electricity Corporation of Ecuador in 2020 reported that generated around 80% of all electricity through hydropower; thus, the article aims to critically analyze the development of hydropower in Ecuador in recent years and establish general energy projections to 2030 to expand the fields of knowledge and perspectives. The paper methodology is quantitative, according to scientific editorial sources, articles, investigative documents, and collects data from government agencies that regulate energy development in Ecuador. It is conclusive between a projection’s calculation, Ecuador will need for the year 2030 around 43 TWh, 47 TWh, or 52 TWh to supply the energy grid, according to the scenarios proposed (low, medium, high). Although hydropower will be essential to contribute to this requirement, the country has a barrier because hydropower is very sensitive to external factors of diverse nature, generating an uncertainly future directly associated with climatic effects.

Verlorenvlei is a globally important RAMSAR wetland on the arid west coast of South Africa. A prolonged drought between 2016 and 2021 and increasing competition for water from the agricultural sector resulted in extremely low water levels. We used historical aerial and satellite imagery from 1942 and rainfall and water level data for the past 50 years, to assess habitat changes within the estuarine functional zone of the Verlorenvlei Estuarine Lake. Prior to the drought, lake water levels and water surface area remained stable (1113 ± 27 ha (SE)). Since then, there has been a 64% decrease in open water area, exposing 193 ha of sandbanks, of which 190.9 ha were hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich. The water in the lower lake was hypersaline (>100), and in the middle, it was acidic (pH<3). The low water level plus sediment and nutrient input from surrounding agriculture resulted in a localised increase in reeds. Additional pressures, such as fires, have reduced the above-ground biomass of reeds and sedges, potentially altering surface morphology and reducing stored carbon. Despite flooding and filling up in June 2023, the lake remained in an acidic state (3.9-4.3). Similar low-lake level, hypersaline and acidic conditions are predicted to become more common under future climate change scenarios where aridity and extreme weather events are anticipated. Inflow of fresh water into the estuary and control of farming practices are required to keep the Verlorenvlei in a functional state, with long-term monitoring necessary to assess the ecological condition in response to restoration actions. SIGNIFICANCE: We assessed the habitat changes in Verlorenvlei, an estuarine lake on the arid west coast of South Africa. Estuarine lakes are scarce, and an extended drought greatly reduced the water surface area, exposing hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich soils, leading to lake acidification and a negative response from biota. Competition for water from agribusiness and the burning of reeds are added pressures. Subsequent heavy rains have been slow to buffer lake acidity, and the impacts thereof serve as a warning for the management of similar ecosystems and their ecological water requirements, especially under climate change where extreme weather conditions, increased aridity and competition for water are realities.

Abstract This article discusses questions concerning the future of humanity in the face of threats to the health of populations, whose impact has been exacerbated in the course of inequalities in all parts of the world, pari passu with global development in the hegemonized model since last century. The COVID-19 pandemic is a good example that illustrates this dissonance between development and inequalities. Questions were formulated to be debated about the construction of the future of world society, based on the understanding of the evolutionary character of life on the planet vis-à-vis the evils that affect large contingents of the population and represent powerful risks for this evolutionary process. These questions call attention to the discussion around social participation in the definition and control of public policies, as opposed to the hegemony of private interests in the formulation and execution of these policies, both in the scenarios of each country and in the international context. populations century COVID19 COVID 19 COVID-1 society visàvis vis à process policies context COVID1 1 COVID-

Resumo O artigo discute questões sobre o futuro da humanidade ante as ameaças que rondam a saúde das populações, cujo impacto vem se exacerbando no curso das desigualdades em todas as partes do mundo, pari passu o desenvolvimento global no modelo hegemonizado a partir do século passado. A pandemia de COVID-19 foi tomada como um caso que bem ilustra essa dessintonia entre desenvolvimento e desigualdades. Formulam-se perguntas a serem postas em debate sobre a construção do futuro da sociedade mundial, com base na acepção sobre o caráter evolucional da vida no planeta vis-à-vis os males que acometem grandes contingentes populacionais e representam poderosos riscos para esse processo evolutivo. São indagações que apontam para a discussão em torno da participação social na definição e no controle das políticas públicas, em contrapartida à hegemonia dos interesses privados na formulação e execução dessas políticas, tanto nos cenários de cada país como no contexto internacional. populações mundo passado COVID19 COVID 19 COVID-1 Formulamse Formulam mundial visàvis vis evolutivo públicas internacional COVID1 1 COVID-

Resumen (Introducción) Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco es una especie forestal de gran importancia por sus servicios ecosistémicos y su comercialización. Actualmente, se ha documentado que el cambio climático está afectando las poblaciones del norte del continente; sin embargo, no se ha evaluado cómo afectaría esto a la distribución de la especie en el futuro. (Objetivo) El objetivo de este trabajo fue modelar la idoneidad ambiental y la distribución potencial de P. menziesii en 3 periodos (2040, 2060 y 2080). (Metodología) Se estimó la idoneidad y distribución potencial, con base en registros y variables bioclimáticas, con ayuda de MaxEnt; se realizaron transferencias a 2 escenarios de emisiones de carbono en 3 periodos; por último, se evaluó la pérdida de extensión y disminución de idoneidad ambiental en porcentaje. (Resultados) P. menziesii tiene una distribución potencial actual de 164 110 km2, las zonas con mayor idoneidad ambiental (> 0.5) se ubicaron en el norte del país, específicamente en los estados del norte. No obstante, bajo los escenarios de cambio climático, estas áreas sufrieron mayor disminución de la idoneidad ambiental (> 50 %) y se redujo su extensión entre 50.7 % y 92.6 %; en contraste, las poblaciones más resilientes contra el cambio climático fueron las del sur. (Conclusiones) Pseudotsuga menziesii se ve favorecida por las bajas temperaturas, debido a esto, se espera un decrecimiento drástico en su distribución potencial. Aunada a ello, la idoneidad ambiental bajará a más del 50 % en las regiones norte de la nación. Con una pérdida drástica de superficie, la prevalencia de la especie pudiera encontrarse en un punto de declive.

Abstract (Introduction) Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco is a forest species of great importance for its ecosystem services and commercialization. Currently, it has been documented that climate change is affecting populations in the north of the continent; Nevertheless, how these changes will affect the distribution of the species in the future has not been assessed. (Objective) The objective of this work was to model the environmental suitability and potential distribution of P. menziesii in 3 time periods (2040, 2060 and 2080). (Methodology) Environmental suitability and potential distribution were estimated based on records and bioclimatic variables with the help of MaxEnt; transfers were made to 2 scenarios of carbon emissions in 3 time periods; finally, the loss of extension and decrease of environmental suitability were evaluated as a percentage. (Results) P. menziesii has a current potential distribution of 164 110 km2, the areas with the highest environmental suitability (> 0.5) were located in the north of the country, specifically in the states of north. However, under the climate change scenarios, these zones suffered a greater decrease in their environmental suitability of > 50 %, and their extension was reduced between 50.7 % and 92.6 %, in contrast, the most resilient populations to climate change were those in the south. (Conclusions) Pseudotsuga menziesii is favored by low temperatures, due to this, a drastic reduction in its potential distribution is expected, coupled with this, environmental suitability will drop to more than 50 % in the northern regions of the country. With a drastic loss of area, the prevalence of the species could be at a point of decline.

Abstract This article explores the design and application of machine learning techniques to enhance traditional approaches for solving NP-hard optimization problems. Specifically, it focuses on the Last-Mile Routing Research Challenge (LMRRC), supported by Amazon and MIT, which sought innovative solutions for cargo routing optimization. While the challenge provided travel times and zone identifiers, the dependency on these factors raises concerns about the algorithms’ generalizability to different contexts and regions with standard delivery services registries. To address these concerns, this study proposes personalized cost matrices that incorporate both distance and time models, along with the relationships between delivery stops. Additionally, it presents an improved approach to sequencing stops by combining exact and approximate algorithms, utilizing a customized regression technique alongside fine-tuned metaheuristics and heuristics refinements. The resulting methodology achieves competitive scores on the LMRRC validation dataset, which comprises routes from the USA. By carefully delineating route characteristics, the study enables the selection of specific technique combinations for each route, considering its geometrical and geographical attributes. Furthermore, the proposed methodologies are successfully applied to real-case scenarios of last-mile deliveries in Montevideo (Uruguay), demonstrating similar average scores and accuracy on new testing routes. This research contributes to the advancement of last-mile delivery optimization by leveraging personalized cost matrices and algorithmic refinements. The findings highlight the potential for improving existing approaches and their adaptability to diverse geographic contexts, paving the way for more efficient and effective delivery services in the future.

Resumen Este artículo explora el diseño y aplicación de técnicas de aprendizaje automático para mejorar los enfoques tradicionales y así resolver problemas de optimización NP-hard. En particular, se enfoca en el Last-Mile Routing Research Challenge (LMRRC), apoyado por Amazon y MIT, que buscaba soluciones innovadoras para la optimización de rutas de carga. Si bien el desafío proporcionó tiempos de viaje e identificadores de zona, la dependencia de estos factores plantea preocupaciones sobre la generalización de los algoritmos a diferentes contextos y regiones con registros de servicios de entrega estándar. Para abordar estas interrogantes, este estudio propone matrices de costos personalizadas que incorporan modelos de distancia y tiempo, junto con las relaciones entre las paradas de entrega. Además, presenta enfoques mejorados para la secuenciación de paradas mediante la combinación de algoritmos exactos y aproximados, utilizando técnicas de regresión personalizada junto con metaheurísticas y refinamientos heurísticos ajustados. La metodología resultante logra puntajes competitivos en el conjunto de datos de validación LMRRC, que usa rutas de EE. UU. Al delinear cuidadosamente las características de la ruta, el estudio permite la selección de combinaciones de técnicas específicas para cada ruta, considerando sus atributos geométricos y geográficos. Además, las metodologías propuestas se aplican con éxito a escenarios de casos reales de entregas en Montevideo (Uruguay), demostrando puntajes promedio y precisión similares en nuevas rutas de prueba. Esta investigación contribuye al avance de la optimización de la entrega de última milla al aprovechar matrices de costos personalizadas y refinamientos algorítmicos. Los hallazgos resaltan el potencial para mejorar los enfoques existentes y su adaptabilidad a diversos contextos geográficos, allanando el camino para servicios de entrega más eficientes y efectivos en el futuro.

Resumen Introducción: se sabe que los festivales incrementan y valorizan el patrimonio intangible. Esta investigación busca propiciar la transformación de los festivales en escenarios que favorezcan el acceso a la difusión de las artes con criterios de equidad hacia las turistas mujeres. Objetivo principal: el propósito de este trabajo es investigar la participación de las turistas mujeres durante la asistencia al Festival de Artes Vivas de Loja-Ecuador en 2018, y determinar si tanto los hombres como las mujeres tienen una participación plena e igualitaria en la cultura; así como inferir las tendencias futuras. Método y técnica: esta investigación utiliza un enfoque cuantitativo de alcance exploratorio, se aplicaron 353 encuestas. Los datos se analizaron con base en la técnica de Clusters por Árboles de Regresión y al Análisis de Detección de Interacción Chi-cuadrado. Adicionalmente, se utilizaron cuatro estadísticos de prueba. Resultados: la probabilidad de asistencia de las turistas mujeres, así como sus gastos, fueron inferiores a la de los hombres. Las mujeres prefirieron las obras de teatro, la danza y las exposiciones gastronómicas. Los precios fueron percibidos como altos, lo que podría provocar el retorno de un pequeño porcentaje de las turistas mujeres. Conclusiones: la oferta cultural del festival no es inclusiva para las turistas mujeres. De persistir esta tendencia, la asistencia se polarizaría. El derecho de las turistas mujeres a participar como asistentes en las actividades de los festivales de arte debería ser un compromiso de la ciudad como política pública.

Abstract Introduction: festivals contribute to increasing heritage diversity. This research contributes to promoting the transformation of festivals into scenarios that favor access to the dissemination of the arts with criteria of equity towards women tourists.Objective: the purpose of this work is to investigate the participation of female tourists during Festival of Living Arts in Loja-Ecuador in 2018 in order to determine if both men and women have a full and equal participation in culture; as well as to infer future trends.Method and technique: this research use a quantitative approach of exploratory scope; 353 surveys were applied. Data were analyzed based on the regression tree technique and Chi-square Interaction Detection Analysis. Additionally, four test statisticians were used.Results: the probability of attendance of female tourists and their expenses were lower than men. Women tourists preferred plays, dance and gastronomic exhibitions. Prices were perceived as high, this would cause a return of a small percentage of female tourists.Conclusions: the cultural offer of the festival is not inclusive for female tourists. If this trend persists, attendance would become polarized. The right of female tourists to take part as attendees in the activities of art festivals should be a commitment of the city, as public policy.

Resumo O artigo discute questões sobre o futuro da humanidade ante as ameaças que rondam a saúde das populações, cujo impacto vem se exacerbando no curso das desigualdades em todas as partes do mundo, pari passu o desenvolvimento global no modelo hegemonizado a partir do século passado. A pandemia de COVID-19 foi tomada como um caso que bem ilustra essa dessintonia entre desenvolvimento e desigualdades. Formulam-se perguntas a serem postas em debate sobre a construção do futuro da sociedade mundial, com base na acepção sobre o caráter evolucional da vida no planeta vis-à-vis os males que acometem grandes contingentes populacionais e representam poderosos riscos para esse processo evolutivo. São indagações que apontam para a discussão em torno da participação social na definição e no controle das políticas públicas, em contrapartida à hegemonia dos interesses privados na formulação e execução dessas políticas, tanto nos cenários de cada país como no contexto internacional.

Abstract This article discusses questions concerning the future of humanity in the face of threats to the health of populations, whose impact has been exacerbated in the course of inequalities in all parts of the world, pari passu with global development in the hegemonized model since last century. The COVID-19 pandemic is a good example that illustrates this dissonance between development and inequalities. Questions were formulated to be debated about the construction of the future of world society, based on the understanding of the evolutionary character of life on the planet vis-à-vis the evils that affect large contingents of the population and represent powerful risks for this evolutionary process. These questions call attention to the discussion around social participation in the definition and control of public policies, as opposed to the hegemony of private interests in the formulation and execution of these policies, both in the scenarios of each country and in the international context.

Higher Education needs to be reimagined considering the exciting developments within virtual reality and artificial intelligence. As a new generation, Generation Alpha, better known as Gen Alpha,1 is preparing for higher education, and educators are challenged to create opportunities to meet their needs. In this study, we explore an existing paradigm, scenario planning, but within an unfamiliar context - the future of higher education. We pose the question: What are the possible future scenarios within higher education that will appeal to the Gen Alpha student and a millennial parent in a post-pandemic world? As a result, we present a scenario matrix with four learning and teaching models forecast to be successful in 2030 in higher education institutions. These four learning and teaching models are based on two axes: Social connect vs social disconnect in learning and teaching and a single career option or multiple career options as the end goal for the student. Respondents of this longitudinal study are millennial parents of Gen Alpha students. Results indicate that the three main themes that will influence the learning and teaching models of the future are learning spaces and places, glass learning, and techceptance. In line with the three themes, the three major findings were that (1) millennial parents are open to hybrid learning approaches, (2) learning on screens is important, but it should be regulated and based on set standards, and lastly (3) millennial parents are accepting technology (techceptance) as a supportive tool and learning place in higher education. Overall, there was a positive shift in perspectives on higher education regardless of the impact of the pandemic. The outcomes of the research will assist higher educational institutions to strategically align the learning and teaching offerings with the needs and resources of the future student, namely Gen Alpha.

Abstract Background: The role of capsule endoscopy in the evaluation of the small bowel is well established, and current guidelines position it as a first-line test in a variety of clinical scenarios. The advent of double-headed capsules further enabled the endoscopic assessment of colonic mucosa and the opportunity for a one-step noninvasive examination of the entire bowel (panenteric capsule endoscopy [PCE]). Summary: We reviewed the technical procedure and preparation of patients for PCE, as well as its current clinical applications and future perspectives. In non-stricturing and non-penetrating Crohn’sdisease affecting the small bowel and colon, PCE monitors disease activity by assessing mucosal healing, a major treatment outcome, with a higher diagnostic yield than cross-sectional imaging or conventional colonoscopy. Also in ulcerative colitis, double-headed capsules have been used to monitor disease activity noninvasively. Currently, validated scoring systems have been specifically devised for these double-headed capsules and permit a standardized assessment of the inflammatory burden. In suspected mid-lower digestive bleeding, some exploratory studies have demonstrated the feasibility and high diagnostic yield of PCE, which may work as a filter indicating which patients may benefit of further invasive procedures, namely, for planned hemostatic procedures. The possibility of using PCE is also discussed in the context of polyposis syn-dromes with simultaneous involvement of the small intestine and colon. Key Messages: PCE is a feasible, effective, and safe diagnostic procedure to evaluate the small bowel and colon. It has been increasingly explored in the setting of inflammatory bowel diseases and, more recently, in suspected mid-lower digestive bleeding. PCE is expected to reduce the demand for invasive procedures and expand the scope of noninvasive intestinal evaluation in the coming future.

Resumo Introdução: O papel da endoscopia por cápsula na avaliação do intestino delgado encontra-se bem estabelecido, e as orientações atuais posicionam-na como um teste de primeira linha numa variedade de cenários clínicos. O advento das cápsulas de dupla câmara permitiu expandir a sua aplicação para a avaliação endoscópica da mucosa do cólon, oferecendo a oportunidade de um exame não invasivo de todo o intestino (endoscopia pan-entérica por cápsula, PCE). Sumário: Procedemos a uma revisão de vários aspectos do procedimento e preparação dos doentes para a PCE, bem como as aplicações clínicas atuais e as perspetivas futuras das cápsulas de dupla câmara. Na doença de Crohn não estenosante e não penetrante localizada ao intestino delgado e cólon, a PCE permite monitorizar a atividade da doença e avaliar a cicatrização da mucosa, um indicador importante da eficácia da terapêutica, com um rendimento de diagnóstico superior aos métodos convencionais, nomeadamente os exames imagiológicos ou a colonoscopia invasiva. Também na colite ulcerosa, as cápsulas de dupla câmara têm sido utilizadas para monitorizar a atividade da doença de forma não invasiva. Existem índices endoscópicos validados e especificamente concebidos para as cápsulas de dupla câmara, que permitem uma avaliação sistematizada e quantificação objetiva da atividade inflamatória. Na suspeita de hemorragia digestiva média ou baixa, alguns estudos exploratórios demonstraram a aplicabilidade e o elevado rendimento diagnóstico da PCE, podendo funcionar como um filtro de modo a permitir indicar quaisosdoentesquemaisirãobeneficiar de um procedimento invasivo subsequente, nomeadamente para arealizaçãodeprocedimentos hemostáticos dirigidos. A possibilidade de utilização da PCE é também discutida no contexto das síndromes de polipose com envolvimento simultâneo do intestino delgado e do cólon. Mensagens-chave: A PCE é um procedimento diagnóstico eficaz e seguro para avaliar diretamente a mucosa do intestino delgado e cólon. A sua aplicação tem vindo a expandir-se no contexto das Doenças Inflamatórias Intestinais e, mais recentemente, na suspeita de hemorragia digestiva média ou baixa. Existe a expectativa de que no futuro próximo possamos assistir a uma redução substancial da demanda por procedimentos endoscópicos invasivos, face à utilização crescente da PCE enquanto método de diagnóstico pan-intestinal não invasivo.

Resumen: El podcast es un género donde, en los últimos años, ha crecido la exploración de las narrativas de ciencia ficción y distópicas, y particularmente aquellas relacionadas con la catástrofe climática, el colapso de la sociedad de la información y las pandemias. El podcast chileno de ficción Caso 63 (Rojas, 2020) plantea un escenario postapocalíptico, producto de una pandemia que asoló el mundo luego del COVID-19 y de una desconexión forzada que ha destruido las formas de comunicación digital existentes. Su compleja construcción espacio-temporal combina la eco-distopía con la ficción ucrónica, trazando escenarios alternativos imaginados a partir de la crisis pandémica. El escenario de la desconexión digital como apocalipsis problematiza la relación entre datos, información, memoria y archivo e invita a pensar sobre el podcast en relación con el archivo de la literatura latinoamericana, y a través de la presencia de múltiples referencias a la ciencia ficción en la literatura y la cultura popular, en la ciencia ficción como género. En el contexto de lo que Pierre Lévy (1997) denominó la cibercultura, Caso 63 también representa una afectividad marcada por el aislamiento y el predominio de las tecnologías de la información en las relaciones interpersonales.

Abstract: The podcast is a genre where, in recent years, the exploration of science fiction and dystopian narratives has grown, particularly those related to climate catastrophe, the collapse of the information society, and pandemics. The Chilean fiction podcast Caso 63 (Rojas, 2020) presents a post-apocalyptic scenario resulting from a pandemic that devastated the world following COVID-19 and a forced disconnection that has destroyed existing digital communication methods. Its intricate space-time construction combines eco-dystopia with uchronic fiction, envisioning alternative scenarios arising from the pandemic crisis. The digital disconnection scenario as an apocalypse raises questions about the relationship between data, information, memory, and archives, prompting contemplation on the podcast in relation to the Latin American literary archive. It does so through numerous references to science fiction in literature and popular culture within the science fiction genre. In the context of what Pierre Lévy referred (1997) to as "cyberculture," Caso 63 also portrays an affectivity marked by isolation and the predominance of information technologies in interpersonal relationships.

Abstract the following article describes and analyzes some of the adaptive measures that were implemented by Costa Rican Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to address the problems and challenges that arose during the COVID-19 health crisis. Considering that TVET has a practical orientation and focuses on the development of work skills, we investigated, from a qualitative approach, which adaptation measures were implemented by the National Learning Institute (INA), the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), the University College of Cartago (CUC), the University College of Limón (CUNLIMÓN) and the National Technical University (UTN), and how some of these measures could be relevant in post-pandemic scenarios. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews applied to the authorities of the aforementioned institutions in 2021 and the analysis of the data culminated in 2023. Among the most relevant results, it is highlighted that some of the actions implemented by the educational centers were decisively influenced by the weak conditions of educational investment (present in the system prior to the health crisis) and the availability of resources to reduce the negative effects of the pandemic. Measures to sustain virtual professional practices, as well as the implementation of curricula, became one of the main challenges to be solved. In this context, virtual practices and some curricular adaptations, specifically in evaluation and didactics, were part of the measures implemented during the period of confinement due to the pandemic.

Resumen este artículo describe y analiza algunas de las medidas de adaptación que fueron aplicadas por las instituciones de Educación y Formación Técnica Profesional (EFTP) de Costa Rica para hacer frente a los problemas y retos que surgieron durante la crisis sanitaria por el COVID-19. Al considerar que la EFTP tiene una orientación práctica y se enfoca en el desarrollo de habilidades para el trabajo, se investigó, desde un enfoque cualitativo, cuáles medidas de adaptación implementaron ante la pandemia el Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA), el Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), el Colegio Universitario de Cartago (CUC), el Colegio Universitario de Limón (CUNLIMÓN) y la Universidad Técnica Nacional (UTN), y cómo algunas de estas medidas podrían ser relevantes en escenarios pospandémicos. La recolección de los datos se realizó mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas aplicadas a las autoridades de las instituciones mencionadas en el año 2021 y el análisis de estos culminó en el 2023. Dentro de los resultados más relevantes se destaca que algunas de las acciones ejecutadas por los centros educativos estuvieron influenciadas, decisivamente, por las débiles condiciones de inversión educativa (presentes en el sistema, previo a la crisis sanitaria) y la disponibilidad de recursos para disminuir los efectos negativos de la pandemia. Las medidas para sostener las prácticas profesionales virtuales, así como la implementación de los currículos se convirtieron en unos de los principales retos por solucionar. En este contexto, las prácticas virtuales y algunas adaptaciones curriculares, específicamente, en evaluación y didáctica, fueron parte de las medidas implementadas durante la época de confinamiento por la pandemia.

We value comments on our research paper in a Commentary in this issue (Simpson, S Afr J Sci. 2024;120(1/2), Art. #16445). Acknowledging the Universal Thermal Comfort Index (UTCI)'s limitations in capturing individual physiological responses remains important; however, we argue for its appropriateness based on recent thermophysiology and heat exchange advancements during its development and broader alignment with standardised indexing efforts. Our original research paper set out with these considerations in mind, and our conclusions remain valid. We further argue for refinement of the UTCI for specific activities instead of using the RET. Finally, future efforts should focus on monitoring data in real-world scenarios to validate and improve thermal indices