ABSTRACT Purpose: Vacuum-assisted mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (vmPCNL) is being increasingly adopted due to its faster operating times and lower incidence of postoperative infectious complications (IC), however, studies have been limited by small sample sizes. We hypothesize that vmPCNL is an efficacious treatment for renal stone disease with acceptable stone-free rates (SFR) and low incidence of IC. The objectives of this study were to measure SFR three months after surgery, determine the factors influencing SFR, and determine the rates of postoperative IC after vmPCNL. Materials and Methods: Seven hundred and sixty seven patients underwent vmPCNL for the treatment of renal stones > 20 mm at a single institution. Patients underwent postoperative computed tomography at three months to assess SFR. Postoperative fever and SIRS/Sepsis were recorded for individual patients. Multivariate logistics regression was performed to assess predictors of SFR. Results: The SFR was found to be 73.7% at three months. Stone burden (OR 0.39, 95% CI [0.33-0.46]) and age (OR 1.03, 95% CI [1.01-1.04]) emerged as statistically significant predictors of SFR on multivariate analysis. 5.5% of patients experienced postoperative fever, while 2.9% experienced SIRS/Sepsis. Conclusions: This is the largest continuous cohort of patients to undergo vmPCNL for stone disease and demonstrates that vmPCNL is safe and efficacious, with an SFR of 74% at three months. The incidence of postoperative fever and SIRS/Sepsis is 5.5% and 2.9% respectively. Further randomized studies with large sample sizes are required to ascertain the rates of these complications in comparison to conventional approaches. Purpose Vacuumassisted Vacuum assisted minipercutaneous mini percutaneous (vmPCNL IC, , (IC) however stonefree free (SFR surgery Methods 2 institution SIRSSepsis SIRS Sepsis Results 737 73 7 73.7 OR 039 0 39 0.39 95 0.330.46 033046 0.33 0.46 33 46 [0.33-0.46] 103 1 03 1.03 1.011.04 101104 1.01 1.04 01 04 [1.01-1.04] analysis 55 5 5.5 29 9 2.9 Conclusions 74 respectively approaches (IC 73. 3 0.3 330 0.330.4 03304 033 046 0.4 4 [0.33-0.46 10 1.0 011 1.011.0 10110 101 104 [1.01-1.04 5. 2. 0. 0.330. 0330 [0.33-0.4 1. 1.011. 1011 [1.01-1.0 0.330 [0.33-0. 1.011 [1.01-1. [0.33-0 [1.01-1 [0.33- [1.01- [0.33 [1.01 [0.3 [1.0 [0. [1. [0 [1 [

Resumo Introdução: O uso da ultrassonografia no local de atendimento (PoCUS) tem ganhado relevância na prática médica, melhorando a capacidade diagnóstica e a segurança do paciente. Contudo, no Uruguai, o treinamento PoCUS para internistas é limitado. O objetivo é concretizar a implementação da formação PoCUS para os cursos de pós-graduação em Medicina Interna. Metodologia: Foi criado um curso-oficina dividido em módulos por sistemas e protocolos clínicos. Bibliografia e material audiovisual foram fornecidos aos participantes. Foram utilizados aparelhos de ultrassom portáteis sem fio e modelos voluntários. Foram realizados testes diagnósticos de conhecimento, avaliações clínicas objetivas estruturadas e pesquisas de satisfação. Resultados: 30 dos 32 participantes concluíram e foram aprovados no curso. A pesquisa de satisfação mostrou alta avaliação dos objetivos do curso, logística e instrutores. Houve uma melhoria estatisticamente significativa no conhecimento do PoCUS entre o pré e o pós-teste (54,72% vs. 82,5%). A avaliação final teve média de aprovação de 92%, com uma única exceção que exigiu recuperação. Discussão: A formação PoCUS em Medicina Interna é considerada valiosa, mas o seu desenvolvimento é limitado no Uruguai. A implementação de um curso estruturado demonstrou melhorias no conhecimento e elevados níveis de satisfação. Foi comparado com outros cursos de habilidades clínicas com resultados semelhantes. A curva de aprendizado para diferentes órgãos varia, destacando a necessidade de monitoramento contínuo. Conclusões: Altos níveis de satisfação dos participantes foram obtidos com resultados positivos em conhecimentos e habilidades. Acreditamos que é importante continuar investigando a curva de aprendizagem pós-curso.

Resumen: Introducción: El uso de la ultrasonografía en el punto de atención (PoCUS) ha ganado relevancia en la práctica médica, mejorando la capacidad diagnóstica y la seguridad de los pacientes. Sin embargo, en Uruguay, la formación en PoCUS para médicos internistas es limitada. El objetivo es lograr la implementación de la formación de PoCUS en los posgrados de Medicina Interna. Metodología: Se creó un curso-taller dividido en módulos por sistemas y protocolos clínicos. Se proporcionó bibliografía y material audiovisual a los participantes. Se utilizaron ecógrafos portátiles inalámbricos y modelos voluntarios. Se realizaron pruebas de conocimiento diagnósticas, evaluaciones clínicas objetivas estructuradas y encuestas de satisfacción. Resultados: 30 de los 32 participantes completaron y aprobaron el curso. La encuesta de satisfacción mostró una alta evaluación de los objetivos del curso, la logística y los instructores. Hubo una mejora estadísticamente significativa en el conocimiento de PoCUS entre el pre y post test (54.72% vs. 82.5%). La evaluación final tuvo una media de aprobación del 92%, con una sola excepción que requirió recuperación. Discusión: La formación en PoCUS en Medicina Interna es percibida como valiosa, pero su desarrollo es limitado en Uruguay. La implementación de un curso estructurado demostró mejoras en conocimientos y altos niveles de satisfacción. Se comparó con otros cursos de habilidades clínicas con resultados similares. La curva de aprendizaje para diferentes órganos varía, lo que destaca la necesidad de un seguimiento continuo. Conclusiones: Se obtuvieron altos niveles de satisfacción de los participantes con resultados de conocimientos y destrezas positivos. Creemos que es de importancia seguir investigando la curva de aprendizaje posterior al curso.

Abstract Introduction: The use of point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) has gained relevance in medical practice, improving diagnostic capacity and patient safety. However, in Uruguay, PoCUS training for internal medicine physicians is limited. The objective is to achieve the implementation of PoCUS training in Internal Medicine postgraduate courses. Methodology: A course-workshop was created divided into modules by clinical systems and protocols. Bibliography and audiovisual material were provided to participants. Wireless portable ultrasound machines and voluntary models were used. Diagnostic knowledge tests, structured objective clinical evaluations, and satisfaction surveys were conducted. Results: 30 of the 32 participants completed and passed the course. The satisfaction survey showed a high evaluation of the course objectives, logistics, and instructors. There was a statistically significant improvement in PoCUS knowledge between the pre and post test (54.72% vs. 82.5%). The final assessment had an average passing rate of 92%, with only one exception requiring retake. Discussion: PoCUS training in Internal Medicine is perceived as valuable, but its development is limited in Uruguay. The implementation of a structured course demonstrated improvements in knowledge and high levels of satisfaction. It was compared with other clinical skills courses with similar results. The learning curve for different organs varies, highlighting the need for continued monitoring. Conclusions: High levels of satisfaction were obtained from participants with positive knowledge and skills results. We believe that it is important to continue investigating the learning curve after the course.

It presents the methodological aspects of the design and organization of the study Food Commercialization in Brazilian Schools, which aimed to evaluate aspects related to the commercialization of food and beverages in private schools, based on information collected from school cafeteria managers and street vendors located in the immediate surroundings of the schools. A cross-sectional study was conducted in private elementary and high schools that had cafeterias, in the 26 Brazilian state capitals and the Federal District. Simple random sampling with inverse replacement was used, and in the end, 2,241 cafeterias and 700 street vendors were evaluated. The proportion of sample loss was 21.2%. The questionnaire was developed and reviewed by specialists, covering questions about: food and nutritional information, infrastructure for meals, convenience, price, availability, variety, and promotion. The logistics included a coordinating team that conducted training, managed and controlled data quality, local researchers, and a company that assisted with fieldwork. The data collection took place between 2022 and 2024. The main implementation challenges were its overlap with the 2022 election period, episodes of violence in schools, internal school policies, and the complexity of Brazil’s cultural diversity and vast territorial extension. The study’s strengths include the novelty of the data collected in terms of depth and representativeness, the use of the generated evidence to propose public policies for regulating the school food environment, and the support in building a network of researchers on the topic.

Se presentan los aspectos metodológicos de la concepción y organización del estudio Comercialización de Alimentos en Escuelas Brasileñas, cuyo objetivo fue evaluar aspectos relacionados con la comercialización de alimentos y bebidas en escuelas privadas, a partir de información recopilada de los gestores de cantinas escolares y vendedores ambulantes presentes en el entorno inmediato de las escuelas. Se realizó un estudio transversal en escuelas privadas de enseñanza primaria y secundaria que contaban con cantinas, en las 26 capitales brasileñas y en el Distrito Federal. Se empleó un muestreo aleatorio simple con reposición inversa, y al final se evaluaron 2.241 cantinas y 700 vendedores ambulantes. La proporción de pérdidas muestrales fue del 21,2%. El cuestionario fue desarrollado y evaluado por especialistas, abarcando cuestiones sobre: información alimentaria y nutricional, infraestructura para la alimentación, conveniencia, precio, disponibilidad, variedad y promoción. La logística contó con un equipo coordinador que llevó a cabo las capacitaciones, gestionó y controló la calidad de los datos, investigadores locales y una empresa que asistieron en el trabajo de campo. Las recolecciones de datos se llevaron a cabo entre 2022 y 2024. Las principales dificultades de implementación fueron su coincidencia con el período electoral de 2022, episodios de violencia en las escuelas, políticas internas de las escuelas y la complejidad de la diversidad cultural y la vasta extensión territorial brasileña. Como puntos fuertes se destacan la novedad de los datos recogidos en términos de profundidad y representatividad, el uso de la evidencia generada para proponer políticas públicas de regulación del entorno alimentario escolar y el apoyo en la construcción de una red de investigadores en la temática.

Apresenta os aspectos metodológicos da concepção e organização do estudo Comercialização de Alimentos em Escolas Brasileiras, que teve como objetivo avaliar aspectos relacionados à comercialização de alimentos e bebidas em escolas privadas, a partir de informações coletadas com gestores de cantinas escolares e ambulantes presentes no entorno imediato das escolas. Realizou-se um estudo transversal em escolas privadas, de ensino fundamental e médio que possuíam cantinas, nas 26 capitais brasileiras e no Distrito Federal. Foi empregada aleatória simples com reposição inversa, ao final, foram avaliadas 2.241 cantinas e 700 ambulantes. A proporção de perdas amostrais foi de 21,2%. O questionário foi desenvolvido e avaliado por especialistas contemplando questões sobre: informação alimentar e nutricional, infraestrutura para alimentação, conveniência, preço, disponibilidade, variedade e promoção. A logística contou com uma equipe coordenadora que conduziu os treinamentos, realizou a gestão e controle da qualidade dos dados, pesquisadores locais e uma empresa que auxiliaram no trabalho de campo. As coletas ocorreram entre 2022 e 2024. As principais dificuldades de implementação foram sua concomitância com o período eleitoral de 2022, episódios de violência nas  escolas, políticas internas das escolas e a complexidade da diversidade cultural e a vasta extensão territorial brasileira. Como pontos fortes destacam-se o ineditismo dos dados coletados em profundidade e representatividade, o uso das evidências geradas para proposição de políticas públicas de regulação do ambiente alimentar escolar e o apoio na construção de uma rede de pesquisadores na temática.

Resumen: Este artículo analiza el impacto potencial de los chatbots en el mejoramiento del servicio al cliente en la industria logística, evaluando el rendimiento de diez destacadas empresas en Colombia, Perú y Ecuador (zona CPE). Estas empresas, insertas en el sector de servicios logísticos, desempeñan un papel crucial en la cadena de suministro, ofreciendo servicios especializados que abarcan transporte, almacenamiento y otras áreas dentro de su actividad económica. El estudio, que incluyó a 1250 usuarios individuales tipo B2C (empresa a consumidor) de chatbots, se enfocó en analizar la efectividad de estas herramientas y su repercusión en la conformidad del cliente. Mediante análisis de regresión múltiple, se identificaron elementos fundamentales que inciden en la satisfacción del cliente, como la capacidad de abordar problemas, el conocimiento detallado de la empresa, la autonomía en la resolución de problemas, la precisión gramatical y la reputación general. Los resultados destacan el potencial de los agentes virtuales para mejorar significativamente la atención al consumidor en la logística, señalando su eficacia en la resolución de problemas, familiaridad con productos y servicios, autonomía en la resolución de problemas, corrección gramatical y recomendaciones de usuarios. Estos hallazgos son cruciales para el sector logístico, subrayando el papel transformador de los chatbots en la elevación de la satisfacción del cliente y la eficiencia operativa mediante la integración tecnológica.

Abstract: The article analyzes the potential effectiveness of chatbots on enhancing consumer service in the logistics industry, assessing the performance of ten prominent companies in Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador (CPE region). These companies, situated in the logistics services sector, play a crucial role in the supply chain, offering specialized services encompassing transportation, storage, and other areas within their economic activities. The study, involving 1250 individual B2C (business-to-consumer) users of chatbots, focused on analyzing the effectiveness of these tools and their impact on customer satisfaction. Through multiple regression analysis, key factors influencing customer satisfaction were identified, such as the ability to address issues, detailed knowledge of the company, autonomy in issue resolution, grammatical accuracy, and overall reputation. The results underscore the significant potential of chatbots to enhance customer service in logistics, emphasizing their effectiveness in issue resolution, familiarity with products and services, autonomy in issue resolution, grammatical correctness, and user recommendations. These findings are vital for the logistics sector, highlighting the transformative role of chatbots in elevating customer satisfaction and operational efficiency through technological integration.

Pakhanate-state of state waar pakhanate-tendense voorkom, is histories 'n bekende verskynsel. Klassieke voorbeelde van state waar pakhanate-tendense voorgekom het, was Rusland en Japan. Tans word talle state, waaronder Venezuela, Sirië, Montenegro en Mexiko as pakhanate geïdentifiseer, of prominente tendense word in hierdie verband daar waargeneem. Teen die agtergrond van uitgebreide endemiese korrupsie, staatskaping en gepaardgaande ondersoeke kan met reg gevra word of Suid-Afrika behoort tot die kategorie van state wat losweg as pakhanate beskryf kan word? Hierdie artikel konseptualiseer en kontekstualiseer die konsep en beoordeel die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks daarvan aan die hand van geïdentifiseerde kriteria.

Pakhanate states or states reflecting tendencies of pakhanate, are a historically well-known phenomenon. These states are also referred to as Mafia states. Classic examples of states where tendencies of pakhanate occurred, were Russia and Japan. Currently many states are identified as pakhanate states, examples of which are Venezuela, Columbia, Kosovo, Syria, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Myanmar, Transnistria and Mexico, as prominent pakhanate tendencies are being observed there. Pakhanate states (or related tendencies) can be identified because of a lack of clear differentiation between the political and criminal elite in a particular state and their related decisions. This, according to Naim (2012:1), is referred to as "a fusing of government and criminal groups" in a world that is experiencing "a revolution of crime". Pakhanate tendencies, although unique within their own context, are developing throughout the world against the backdrop of a combination offactors, including a history of crime and the existence of established criminal syndicates; states that experienced fundamental change and where low levels of political institutionalisation and power vacuums occur; existing historical trends of patrimonialism and neo-patrimonial tendencies within states; non-democratic tendencies in general, and sometimes an environment where neo-liberal values and a free trade environment provide the space for criminally orientated organisations to grow and establish their authority. Access to sophisticated technology, for example weapons, communication logistics and infrastructure, seems to be of critical importance in the development and growth of pakhanate tendencies. By making use of theoretical principles emphasising the Weberian "strong state" and "constitutional government" and related underlying principles and norms, this article critically assesses pakhanate states and related tendencies. Criteria related to the so-called Weberian strong state have been identified and qualified with normative criteria (democratic in nature), emphasising aspects such as constitutionalism, the public good, and the notion of responsible government and sound principles related to good governance. In a world that is currently experiencing fundamental change, weakening states, escalating conflicts and war, the prominence of non-state actors operating in an environment of freedom, and limited control, with access to modern and sophisticated technology, pakhanate tendencies seem to be on the increase. Against the background of extensive endemic corruption, state capture and concomitant investigations, it can be asked with good cause if South Africa belongs to this category of states. Several authors and writers such as Africa, Vegter and others have reflected on Mafia tendencies within the South African state and society. These perspectives are related to several recent works discussing endemic corruption and state capture within the South African context. This is related to the investigation of the Zondo Commission and its report linking influential politicians and the ruling ANC to endemic corruption and state capture. To support this perspective, the Global Organised Crime Index (2023) positions South Africa at number 7 within the category referred to as "mafia states". This is just below the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Nigeria. This article conceptualises and contextualises the concept pakhanate state (or related tendencies) and evaluates the South African context with reference to theoretical criteria identified in the discussion. Focus points of the article include: • characteristics and functions of the traditional nation state; • normative criteria referring to the concept of a strong and constitutional state; • a conceptualisation and operationalisation of the pakhanate phenomenon; • the identification of the pakhanate phenomenon as a worldwide tendency; • application and assessment of the application of the pakhanate phenomenon within the Sout African context; and • concluding perspectives. From a methodological perspective, this study is qualitative and deductive in nature, with an application with reference to identified case studies - particularly South African. An assessment of the South African context will be made by using the criteria associated with pakhanate states and the related phenomena.

Abstract Achieving competitive supply chains currently represents a requirement to ensure the sustainability of companies, even more so in those that are considered emerging, either due to having little experience in their economic activities or due to their limited ability to cover the market due to their size. These characteristics are regularly met by startups and small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). The objective of this research is to obtain a status of the supply chains of emerging companies in the city of Bogotá as a basis for identifying opportunities for improvement that aim to strengthen their competitiveness. Two well-known reference models developed by logistics experts were used as measurement components. Some statistical calculations and the formulation of surveys were the methods used to collect, analyze and evaluate the information. Among the main results, it is evident that the processes that make up the emerging supply chains in the city have a result that varies between regular and good, and present multiple opportunities for improvement, such as agility and compliance in the supply phase, internal transportation technologies at the time of manufacturing or production, and poor risk management in the distribution and sales process.

Resumen Lograr cadenas de suministro competitivas representa actualmente un requisito para asegurar la sostenibilidad de las empresas, más aún en aquellas que son consideradas emergentes, ya sea por tener poca experiencia en sus actividades económicas o por su escasa capacidad de abarcar el mercado debido a su tamaño. Estas características las cumplen regularmente los emprendimientos y aquellas empresas pequeñas y medianas (pymes). El objetivo de esta investigación es obtener un estado de situación de las cadenas de suministro de las empresas emergentes en la ciudad de Bogotá como base para identificar oportunidades de mejora que apunten a fortalecer su competitividad. Como componentes de medición, se utilizaron dos conocidos modelos de referencia desarrollados por expertos logísticos. Algunos cálculos estadísticos y la formulación de encuestas fueron los métodos utilizados para recoger, analizar y evaluar la información. Entre los principales resultados se evidencia que los procesos que componen las cadenas de suministro emergentes en la ciudad tienen un resultado que varía entre lo regular y lo bueno, y presentan múltiples oportunidades de mejora, como la agilidad y cumplimiento en la fase de aprovisionamiento, las tecnologías de transporte interno al momento de la fabricación o producción, y la escasa gestión de riesgos en el proceso de distribución y ventas.

Abstract Wind energy is one of the most promising alternatives for obtaining a sustainable electricity generation model with low greenhouse gas emissions. The maturity of this technology, coupled with its low investment costs and good performance, makes it highly interesting for countries to develop projects within this field. However, its high operation intermittency caused by the natural behavior of wind requires preliminary research on the technical conditions (Installation, Capacity, Environmental, Legal, Administrative and Logistics) of the geographical area wherein the wind energy project is planned. This paper provides an overview of the state-of-the-art research studies on the potential of wind energy within a territory. This review describes current methodological alternatives for assessing wind energy generation projects and potential energy studies in different geographical areas globally. Therefore, a bibliometric analysis is included, examining the scientific research trends in the field of wind energy in addition to the different technologies and innovations that have contributed to the viability of a greater wind energy generation project. Finally, the study discusses the technical restriction criteria faced by any such project. This paper also seeks to become a point of reference for future reviews and decision-making in wind projects.

Resumen La energía eólica es parte de las alternativas más prometedoras para la obtención de un modelo de generación eléctrica sustentable y de baja emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero. La madurez de la tecnología sumado a su bajo costo de inversión y buen rendimiento hace que esta tecnología presente alto interés para los países que deseen desarrollar proyectos en este campo. Sin embargo, la alta intermitencia de su operación causada por los comportamientos naturales del viento requiere investigaciones de manera preliminar de las condiciones técnicas (Instalación, Capacidad, Ambientales, Legales, Administrativas y Logísticas) en las áreas geográficas donde se presume un posible proyecto eólico. El presente trabajo pretende aportar una visión general del estado de las técnicas relacionadas con el estudio del potencial energético eólico de un territorio. Se pretende mediante este abordaje identificar las alternativas metodológicas existentes para la evaluación de proyectos de generación de energía eólica y los estudios del potencial energético en zonas geográficas del mundo. Asimismo, presentar un análisis bibliométrico donde se analizan las tendencias de investigación científica en el campo de la energía eólica, además de las distintas tecnologías e innovaciones que han contribuido a una mayor viabilidad de los proyectos en esta rama del conocimiento. Finalmente, se muestra los criterios de restricción técnicas con las que se enfrentan un proyecto eólico. Este documento pretende convertirse en punto de referencias para revisiones futuras y la toma de decesiones en proyectos eólicos.

Abstract First-mile problems have become a major problem for the automobile industry since moving cars from production plants to selling destinations is characterized by using vehicle carriers with limited space. Although supply chain processes have automatized last-mile operations to improve productivity and increase benefits, first-mile analysis has been widely ignored. For example, in the automotive industry, cars are stored in parking lots until they are demanded, which negatively impacts delivery times and increases transportation costs. The previous issues impact the first-mile logistics of the automobile industry to the detriment of copying with delivery times and increasing the operation cost. In this paper, we deal with the previous issues by modeling the movement of cars from the parking lot to the car Carrier as an optimal control problem. Considering that not all cars should leave the parking lot, we search for conditions that guarantee the existence of a unique optimal path when the cars’ requisition is uncertain. Theoretical results provide a closed-form solution that indicates the optimal path to fill the car carrier in a time window. Such solutions allow us to study the impact of exogenous parameters (such as the parking lot size, the starting point, andmarginal costs) on the behavior and features of the optimal path.

Resumen Los problemas de la primera milla se han convertido en un problema importante para la industria automotriz, ya que el traslado de los automóviles desde las plantas de producción a los destinos de venta se caracteriza por el uso de portavehículos con espacio limitado. Aunque los procesos de la cadena de suministro han automatizado las operaciones de última milla para mejorar la productividad y aumentar los beneficios, el análisis de la primera milla ha sido ampliamente ignorado. Por ejemplo, en la industria automotriz, los automóviles se almacenan en estacionamientos hasta que se demandan, lo que impacta negativamente en los tiempos de entrega y aumenta los costos de transporte. Lo anterior impacta la logística de primera milla de la industria automotriz en detrimento de copiar tiempos de entrega y aumentar el costo de operación. En este artículo, abordamos las cuestiones anteriores modelando el movimiento de los automóviles desde el estacionamiento hasta el portavehículos como un problema de control óptimo. Considerando que no todos los autos deben salir del estacionamiento, buscamos condiciones que garanticen la existencia de un único camino óptimo cuando la requisición de los autos es incierta. Los resultados teóricos proporcionan una solución de forma cerrada que indica la ruta óptima para llenar el portavehículos en una ventana de tiempo. Estas soluciones nos permiten estudiar el impacto de parámetros exógenos (como el tamaño del estacionamiento, el punto de partida y los costos marginales) sobre el comportamiento y las características de la ruta óptima.

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 En este artículo se presentan los resultados de la investigación realizada acerca de la aplicación de la logística inversa en el sector textil de la ciudad de Otavalo con el fin de que las microempresas tengan la posibilidad de reciclar los desechos para luego proceder a una nueva elaboración de un nuevo producto. Por tal motivo, es necesario que se desarrolle el proceso de logística inversa y se tomen decisiones que beneficiarán al medio ambiente y a la sociedad otavaleña. Para el desarrollo de este estudio, inicialmente se realizó un estudio de la literatura que comprendió las definiciones y los tipos de logística inversa, tanto bajo el método cualitativo como el cuantitativo, que permitió estudiar el sector microempresarial textilero por medio de encuestas. Posteriormente, se obtuvieron resultados detallados de productos, materias primas y desechos, con el único propósito de dar el giro que tenían los desechos como destino final el vertedero generando un efecto negativo para el medio ambiente. Con todos los resultados, se propone mejorar los procesos internos y externos de la selección de residuos textiles, con el apoyo de responsabilidad compartida de los stakeholders, como el Gobierno, la Sociedad Civil y las Empresas Públicas, forjando la concientización de la aplicación de la logística inversa en el proceso de planificación, implantación, control y reducción de tiempos mediante el modelo SCOR, buscando la eficiencia y eficacia dentro de las microempresas para obtener al final el retorno de estos residuos para un nuevo producto.

Abstract This article shows the results of the research carried out on the application of reverse logistics in the textile sector of the city of Otavalo, for micro-enterprises to have the possibility of recycling waste and then proceed to a new development of a new product. For this reason, it is necessary to develop the reverse logistics process and make decisions that will benefit the environment of Otavalo City. To develop this study, It was necessary to read initially the literature such asdefinitions, and types of reverse logistics, likewise under the qualitative and quantitative method, which allowed to study of the textile microenterprise sector through surveys. Later detailed results of products, raw materials, and waste were obtained with the sole purpose of turning the waste into a final destination in the landfill generating a negative effect on the environment. With all the results, it is proposed to improve the internal and external processes of the selection of textile waste, with the support of shared responsibility of stakeholders, such as the Government, Civil Society, and Public Companies, forging awareness of the application of reverse logistics in the process of planning, implementation, control and time reduction through the SCOR model, seeking efficiency and effectiveness within micro-enterprises to finally obtain , the return of those waste for a new product

Abstract Lean practices are considered in the literature as a work philosophy that allows organizations to identify and eliminate those activities that do not generate value, commonly called waste, which have an impact not only on production processes, but also on supply chain, and in the level of business performance. However, there are relatively few studies published in the literature that have analyzed and discussed the relationship and consequences of the application of Lean practices and their effects on Lean supply chain, and business performance. Therefore, the essential objective of this study is to fill the existing gap in the current literature and empirically test the positive association between Lean practices, Lean supply chain, and business performance, for which a survey was distributed to a sample of 460 manufacturing companies of the automotive industry in Mexico, and the proposed research model was validated using PLS-SEM. The results obtained suggest that Lean practices have a positive impact on business performance and Lean supply chain, just as Lean supply chain also have a positive impact on business performance.

Resumen Las prácticas Lean se consideran en la literatura como una filosofía de trabajo que les permite a las organizaciones identificar y eliminar aquellas actividades que no generan valor, a menudo llamadas residuos, las cuales tienen un impacto no solo en los procesos productivos, sino también en la cadena de suministro, en las actividades de logística y en el nivel del rendimiento empresarial. Sin embargo, son relativamente pocos los estudios publicados en la literatura que han analizado y discutido la relación y consecuencias de la aplicación de las prácticas Lean y sus efectos en la cadena de suministro Lean y el rendimiento empresarial. Por ello, el objetivo esencial de este estudio es llenar el vacío que existe en la actual literatura y probar empíricamente la asociación positiva entre las prácticas Lean, la cadena de suministro Lean y el rendimiento empresarial. Para este propósito, se distribuyó una encuesta a una muestra de 460 empresas manufactureras de la industria automotriz de México, y se validó el modelo de investigación propuesto por medio del uso del PLS-SEM. Los resultados sugieren que las prácticas Lean tienen un impacto positivo tanto en el rendimiento empresarial como en el de la cadena de suministro Lean, al igual que la cadena de suministro Lean también tiene un efecto positivo en el rendimiento empresarial.

Abstract: The article explores the growing integration of AI in the military sphere. It highlights its potential to improve efficiency and accuracy in field operations, predictive analytics, and logistics due to its ability to process large volumes and learn autonomously. The study also emphasizes the role of AI in analyzing data from various sources such as satellite images, intelligence information and social media, which helps in target identification and operation of autonomous vehicles. It also addresses important ethical and legal challenges, including transparency in decision-making and liability for errors or collateral damage. It raises concerns about the vulnerability of military systems to attack, their tampering and the potential for accidental damage. The research employs a qualitative review of existing literature on types of AI and applications in the military context, focusing on benefits and risks. The study aims to synthesize key issues related to military AI capabilities, oversight, and governance, providing directions and precautions for responsible development of AI in defense.

Resumen Los Smart Ports (Puertos Inteligentes) se enfocan en desarrollar procesos más competitivos bajo criterios de costos, tiempos e información alrededor de toda la cadena de suministro con ayuda de las tecnologías pertenecientes a la industria 4.0. La presente investigación, tiene como objetivo analizar el uso de tecnologías emergentes empleadas en Smart Ports mediante consultas de análisis bibliométrico y revisión de literatura de la base de datos Scopus, donde se categorizaron por temáticas comunes. Se concluye el auge y desarrollo de la adopción de tecnologías emergentes en los puertos, principalmente el Internet de las Cosas (IoT), Big Data, Blockchain e Inteligencia Artificial; estas tecnologías han ayudado a que los procesos logísticos portuarios sean seguros y eficientes. También se identifica un énfasis por aportar a procesos de sostenibilidad ambiental, garantizando mediante tecnologías acciones de mejora en las terminales portuarias. Los principales ejemplos que están utilizando tecnologías de industria 4.0 en puertos se ubican en Shanghai, Huanghua, Rotterdam, Hamburgo, Barcelona, Salerno, Rávena, Vancouver y los Ángeles.

Abstract Smart Ports focus on developing more competitive processes based on criteria such as costs, time, and information across the entire supply chain with the assistance of Industry 4.0 technologies. This research aims to analyze the use of emerging technologies in Smart Ports through a literature review from the Scopus database until 2022. Bibliometrix and Vosviewer are employed for quantitative analysis, followed by a qualitative approach in an exploratory study to categorize common themes in the addressed publications. The study concludes the rise and development of emerging technology adoption in ports, primarily IoT, Big Data, Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence. These technologies have contributed to securing and streamlining port logistics processes. There is also a notable emphasis on contributing to environmental sustainability processes through technologies ensuring improvements in port terminals. Key examples of ports incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies include Shanghai, Huanghua, Rotterdam, Hamburg, Barcelona, Salerno, Ravenna, Vancouver, and Los Angeles.

Resumen: En un contexto de creciente globalización y digitalización, las ventanillas únicas para el comercio han adquirido un papel fundamental como herramienta para agilizar y facilitar las operaciones comerciales a nivel internacional. Este artículo científico se centra en el análisis de las tendencias más recientes en la implementación de las ventanillas únicas para el comercio, poniendo de relieve cuatro áreas de particular interés que están moldeando la actualidad de este campo. La primera tendencia se relaciona con la aplicación de una ventanilla única nacional en un país en vez de implementar distintas ventanillas únicas «limitados». La siguiente tendencia implica incluir diversos sectores de servicios en la ventanilla única nacional, desde los servicios regulatorios hasta los servicios privados, en la esfera de la logística y el transporte. La tercera tendencia se relaciona con la transformación de los sistemas nacionales en las plataformas globales de facilitación del comercio que permiten realizar el comercio sin interrupción, en comparación con la ventanilla única, las plataformas para el comercio ofrecen múltiples soluciones y capaces de abarcar un gran número de bienes, servicios y participantes del comercio internacional no sólo en un sector específico, sino abarcar toda la cadena de suministro. Estas tendencias representan una evolución constante en la búsqueda de simplificar y mejorar el comercio internacional, adaptándolo a las demandas cambiantes de la economía globalizada.

Abstract: In a context of increasing globalization and digitalization, single windows for trade have assumed a fundamental role as a tool to streamline and facilitate international business operations. This scientific article focuses on the analysis of the most recent trends in the implementation of single windows for trade, highlighting four areas of particular interest that are shaping the current landscape in this field. The first trend is related to the implementation of a national single window in a country instead of implementing various "limited" single windows. The following trend involves including various sectors of services in the national single window, from regulatory services to private services, in the logistics and transportation sphere. The third trend is related to the transformation of national systems into global trade facilitation platforms that allow uninterrupted trade. Compared to the single window, trade platforms offer multiple solutions and are capable of covering a wide range of goods, services, and international trade participants not only in a specific sector but across the entire supply chain. These trends represent an ongoing evolution in the pursuit of simplifying and enhancing international trade, adapting it to the changing demands of the globalized economy.

SYNOPSIS The large scale of cave mines leads to many challenges, including operational logistics and geomechanics design. In current practice, pillar stability assessment relies almost exclusively on stress analysis. However, stability is also affected by other factors including those related to operational aspects of the mining method, the effects of which are difficult to account for during the design stages. In this paper we present a case study of the application of a machine learning approach to evaluate the influence of these operational factors on pillar stability at the Chuquicamata underground cave mine in northern Chile. Due to the likely multi-factorial damage process leading to collapses and considering the different pillar conditions, a tree-based machine learning method was used and analysed to improve the understanding of the relative importance of the various contributing factors. Unlike stress analysis methods, it does not require any a priori knowledge of failure mechanisms, nor the calibration of associated controlling parameters. The proposed random forest model predicted pillar collapses with 80% accuracy despite limited samples to model from. The main contributing factors to collapses were found to be related to available pillar volume, cave front geometry, and time under abutment stress conditions. The effects and interactions of such factors were also studied, showing that careful and improved control over operational conditions can significantly reduce the likelihood of pillar collapses. These conclusions could not have been obtained from stress analysis alone, illustrating the complementary nature of conventional stress analysis and machine learning approaches.