RESUMEN La conservación poscosecha de frutas y hortalizas frescas es un desafío constante en la industria alimentaria. Los recubrimientos biodegradables representan una solución innovadora y sostenible para prolongar su vida útil. En este contexto, esta investigación evaluó la influencia de un recubrimiento a base de almidón oxidado de plátano (Musa paradisiaca L. grupo AAA, cv. Cavendish) y aceite de oliva en la conservación de tomates cherry (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme) durante su almacenamiento en condiciones ambientales. Se prepararon emulsiones formadoras de recubrimiento usando almidón (4% m v-1) con alto grado de oxidación, glicerol, Tween 80 y aceite de oliva. Los productos se recubrieron mediante inmersión. El rendimiento de extracción del almidón fue de 27,26% por el método de molienda húmeda. Los contenidos de lípidos, fibra cruda, proteínas, carbohidratos y cenizas tendieron a disminuir en los almidones oxidados al aumentar el tiempo de reacción, comportamiento opuesto para la humedad (P≤0,05). La solubilidad y capacidad de absorción de aceite aumentaron en los almidones oxidados, mientras que la absorción de agua y poder de hinchamiento disminuyeron (P≤0,05). La mejor combinación para la formulación de los recubrimientos de almidón oxidado fue 3% (m v-1) de glicerol y 0,3% (m v-1) de aceite. Este recubrimiento redujo las pérdidas de masa y retrasó el proceso de maduración. Los resultados sugirieron que el uso de recubrimientos a base de almidón oxidado de plátano y aceite de oliva es una estrategia eficaz para mantener la calidad y frescura de los frutos durante un periodo de almacenamiento más prolongado.

ABSTRACT Postharvest conservation of fresh fruits and vegetables is a constant challenge in the food industry. Biodegradable coatings represent an innovative and sustainable solution to extend their shelf life. In this context, this research evaluated the influence of a coating based on oxidized banana starch (Musa paradisiaca L. group AAA, cv. Cavendish) and olive oil on the conservation of cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Cerasiforme) during their storage at ambient conditions. Coating-forming emulsions were prepared using starch (4% m v-1) with a high degree of oxidation, glycerol, Tween 80, and olive oil. The products were dip coated. The starch extraction yield was 27.26% by the wet milling method. The contents of lipids, crude fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, and ashes tended to decrease in oxidized starches with increasing reaction time, the opposite behavior for humidity (P≤0.05). Solubility and oil absorption capacity increased in oxidized starches, while water absorption and swelling power decreased (P≤0.05). The best combination for the formulation of oxidized starch coatings was 3% (m v-1) of glycerol and 0.3% (m v-1) of oil. This coating reduced weight losses and delayed the ripening process. The results suggested that the use of coatings based on oxidized banana starch and olive oil is an effective strategy for maintaining the quality and freshness of the fruits during a longer storage period.

Abstract: This research proposes two models for the problem of short-term economic dispatch of electrical power systems through nonlinear programming (NLP). The problems raised will be resolved through the cost function of the classic economic dispatch where thermal and hydraulic generation plants will be considered to obtain the electrical power generated in each of the nodes. The proposed methodology will be used for a short-term period of 24 hours with different hourly demand, as it is a short-term dispatch, it focuses on the delivery of power that covers the designated demand in each schedule, so it will not consider a deficit cost or uncertainty in the variables in any of the cases. In the first instance, the model will be developed for a single node with cascade reservoirs, while the second case will be developed in the IEEE 14-bus system. The non-linear programming shows satisfactory results, complying with the operational restrictions implemented in the mathematical model, in addition, the participation of thermal generation is considerably reduced, which represents a lower cost. The first model of a node is validated through bibliography, obtaining an operating cost of $904,990. In the same way, complying with all the designated parameters, the second model obtains a total cost of $129,800, satisfying the total demand in both cases, subject to each of its restrictions.

Resumen: La presente investigación propone dos modelos al problema de despacho económico a corto plazo de los sistemas eléctricos de potencia por medio de la programación no lineal (PNL). Los problemas planteados serán resueltos mediante la función de costo del despacho económico clásico en donde se considerarán centrales de generación térmica e hidráulicas para obtención de la potencia eléctrica generada en cada uno de los nodos, la metodología propuesta será utilizada para un periodo a corto plazo de 24 horas con diferente demanda horaria, al ser un despacho a corto plazo este se enfoca en la entrega de potencia que cubra la demanda designada en cada horario, por lo que no considerará para ninguno de los casos un costo de déficit o incertidumbre en las variables. En primera instancia se desarrollará el modelo para un solo nodo con embalses en cascada, mientras que el segundo caso será desarrollado en el sistema de 14 buses de la IEEE. La programación no lineal muestra resultados satisfactorios cumpliendo con las restricciones operativas implementadas en el modelo matemático, además se reduce considerablemente la participación de generación térmica lo que representa menor costo, el primer modelo de un nodo es validado mediante bibliografía obteniendo un costo de operación de $904.990. De la misma forma, cumpliendo con todos los parámetros designados, el segundo modelo llega a obtener un costo total de $129.802,16 satisfaciendo el total de la demanda en ambos casos, sujeto a cada una de sus restricciones.

Resumen En este artículo se presenta una metodología para la minimización de las pérdidas de potencia activa en sistemas de distribución trifásicos desbalanceados. Este enfoque utilizó un modelo eficiente en el dominio complejo que pertenece a la categoría de optimización convexa de enteros mixtos. La metodología empleada consistió en la rotación de las cargas en cada nodo de potencia constante a través de una matriz trifásica de rotación que permitió definir cada conexión de carga. Lo anterior con el objetivo de minimizar los desbalances de potencia en los terminales de la subestación y las pérdidas de potencia totales, y mejorar los perfiles de tensión en cada una de las fases del sistema. El desbalance de cargas, expresado como un porcentaje, puede definirse en función de las potencia activa, reactiva o aparente. Además, se formuló un modelo entero mixto convexo con el propósito de minimizar los desbalances de potencia, considerando la representación en el dominio complejo de las redes eléctricas trifásicas en condiciones estacionarias. En aras de determinar las pérdidas de potencia iniciales y finales de estas redes, se empleó el método de aproximaciones sucesivas para resolver el problema de flujo de potencia trifásico. Como resultado, las validaciones numéricas realizadas en el sistema IEEE de 25 nodos y en una red trifásica de 35 nodos mostraron que las pérdidas finales de potencia activa varían dependiendo de la función objetivo analizada. Por lo tanto, para los alimentadores de prueba estudiados, es necesario evaluar cada función objetivo, en aras de encontrar la que produzca los mejores resultados numéricos. Se obtuvieron reducciones de 3.8056 % y 6.8652 % en las pérdidas de potencia para los dos sistemas de prueba mediante la metodología de optimización propuesta. Todas las validaciones numéricas se realizaron en el entorno de programación Julia, utilizando la herramienta de optimización JuMP y el solucionador HiGHS.

Abstract This article presents a solution methodology to minimize power losses in three-phase unbalanced distribution networks. This approach involved an efficient complex-domain model that is categorized under mixed-integer convex optimization. The methodology employed consisted of efficient load rotation at each constant power node via a three-phase rotation matrix that allows defining each load connection to minimize the expected power imbalance at the terminals of the substation, as well as the total grid power losses, and improve voltage profile performance at each system phase. The load imbalance, expressed as a percentage, can be defined as a function of the active, reactive, or apparent power. In addition, considering the complex-domain representation of three-phase electrical networks under steady-state conditions, a mixed-integer convex model was formulated to reduce the power imbalances. With the purpose of determining the initial and final power losses of these distribution systems, the successive approximations method was employed to address the three-phase power flow problem. As a result, numerical validations in the IEEE 25-bus system and a 35-node three-phase feeder showed that the final active power losses vary depending on the objective function analyzed. Therefore, for the test feeders studied, it is necessary to evaluate each objective function, with the aim of finding the one that yields the best numerical results. Power losses reductions of about 3.8056 % and 6.8652 % were obtained for both test feeders via the proposed optimization methodology. All numerical validations were performed in the Julia programming environment, using the JuMP optimization tool and the HiGHS solver.

Abstract: In the contemporary landscape, two-wheelers have emerged as the predominant mode of transportation, despite their inherent risk due to limited protection. Disturbing data from 2020 reveals a daily toll of 304 lives lost in India in road accidents involving two-wheeler riders without helmets, emphasizing the urgent need for safety measures. Recognizing the crucial role of helmets in mitigating risks, governments have made riding without one a punishable offense, employing manual strategies for enforcement with limitations in speed and weather conditions. In today’s world of advancing technology, we can leverage the power of computer vision and deep learning to tackle this problem. This can eliminate the need for constant human surveillance to be kept on riders and can automate this process, thus enforcing law and order as well as making this process efficient. Our proposed solution utilizes video surveillance and the YOLOv8 deep learning model for automatic helmet detection. The system employs pure machine learning to identify helmet types with minimal computation cost by utilizing various image processing algorithms. Once the helmet-less person is detected, the number plate corresponding to the rider’s motorcycle is also detected and extracted using computer vision techniques. This number plate is then stored in a database thus allowing further intervention to be done in this matter by the authorities to ensure penalties and enforce safety rules properly. The model developed achieves an overall accuracy score of 93.6% on the testing data, thus showcasing good results on diverse datasets.

Open theism argues that traditional responses to the problem of evil fail to provide comfort amidst suffering because of their notion of metaphysical determinism and over-dependence on Greek philosophy. Open theists argue that the best solution to the problem of evil lies in our understanding of the nature of God's power, which has been relinquished due to his love, the open nature of creation, and the creatures' inherent powers. This study argues that the open-theistic notion of divine power is reductionistic because it does not consider coercive power as part of divine power. Further, the open theistic logic-of-love defence propagates a loveless God who respects his covenant with the beloved more than the beloved. Finally, the study argues that the open theists' notions of divine omniscience and divine power are not viable; they raised many questions and objections and, therefore, created room for despair rather than comfort in adversity.

The goal of this study is to increase material removal rate (Mrr), and minimize consumption of power (Pc) and surface integrity (Sr) while using the least amount of resources thereby addressing sustainable manufacturing and optimization in machining operation. Box Behnken Design (BBD) and Grey Regression Analysis (GRA) are systematically followed in the machining process on UNS T51603. The experimental runs were performed based on BBD followed by multi-objective optimization using GRA. The practical applicability and reliability of the optimized parameters is evaluated by confirmatory runs, and the optimal solution of single and multi-objective solution for Sr, Mrr, and Pc, is verified. The lowest Sr was achieved when Ss was maintained at 2000 rpm, with Dc at 0.6 mm, Fr at 750 mm/min, and Cfr 6 l/min. maximum Mrr was attained when Ss assigned at 1750 rpm, with Dc at 0.6 mm, Fr at 750 mm/min, and Cfr 8 l/min. When compared to confirmatory runs, the optimized set of parameters for BBD and GRA reveals a 10% variance, demonstrating the validity of the optimization strategies used. In terms of Pc the optimized parameters were found to be 1750 rpm, 0.2 mm, 500 mm/min, and 6 l/min.

For decades, lead-acid batteries have been supplying power to electrical systems through redox reactions involving Pb and PbO2. However, the energy supply capacity is inherently constrained by low energy density and challenges associated with charge/discharge cycles. Studies have indicated that additions of C to the composition of the active mass improve the electrochemical properties of batteries. This work aims to produce, characterize the microstructure and evaluate the electrochemical properties of Pb-Carbon composites, comparing different types of C (graphite, graphene and xerogel). The samples were produced through powder metallurgy, pressed at 550 MPa and sintered at 320°C-48 h. The microstructure was characterized by XRD, SEM/EDS, and Vickers microhardness. Electrochemical analyses were evaluated through OCP, polarization, and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements in a solution of 4.91 mol•L-1 of H2SO4. Microstructural characterizations revealed dispersions of C particles in the Pb matrix and an increase in the microhardness of the composites. Electrochemical analyses showed an increase in polarization resistance and a reduction in the corrosion rate compared to Pb. CV curves, demonstrated that C particles enhanced electrical conductivity for the formation of PbSO4 and PbO2, allowing greater absorption of electrical overpotentials when compared to Pb, thereby improving charge/discharge cycles in positive grids.

ABSTRACT This article examines how the loyalist exiles of the Spanish American revolutions drew upon their experiences to debate the best ways to preserve imperial rule in the remaining colonies. Delving on the stories of José Domingo Díaz and Miguel Tacón-Intendant of Puerto Rico in the 1820s and Captain General of Cuba in the 1830s, respectively-it traces how they advocated an imperial project rooted in unrestricted obedience to colonial officers, the consolidation of the Captain General’s power, and the opposition to local autonomies. To this end, they weaponized their experiences on the continent and in the Caribbean, claiming that the Spanish Empire should learn from royalists’ mistakes in order to halt the advance of revolution and the emergence of the racial war. For them, the diagnosis was simple: the constitutional rule undermined the royalist cause, thwarting its attempts to preserve racial hierarchies and political stability. Therefore, the solution also seemed straightforward: the Spanish Empire should adopt a new colonial order in which the monarchy unapologetically decided to reinforce its power and racial hierarchies in the Spanish Antilles. Díaz and Tacón’s stories shed light on the impact of the mainland’s independence on the transformations experienced by the Spanish Empire during the Age of Revolution.

ABSTRACT We apply the similarity method to the Korteweg-de Vries equation, where we obtain a new equation, in terms of similarity variable. We use the power series method, getting the similarity solution, which is exemplified graphically by particular cases.

RESUMO Yacon é uma planta perene da região andina que é uma fonte particularmente rica em fruto-oligossacarídeos (FOS) e inulina. Contudo, estes sacarídeos hidrolisam rapidamente após a colheita, afetando as características funcionais do yacon. Portanto, uma tecnologia de preservação como a secagem é necessária para preservar o teor de FOS dos produtos yacon durante o período de entressafra. Nesse sentido, fatias de yacon, não tratadas ou pré-tratadas com Desidratação Osmótica a Vácuo Pulsado (PVOD), foram secas em vácuo de micro-ondas (MWD). Para tanto, o PVOD foi realizado com solução de sorbitol (38 °Brix, 35 °C e 681 mmHg durante os primeiros 10 min). Os experimentos de MWD foram baseados em um projeto experimental de três níveis com três Densidades de Potência iniciais - PD (3,6, 6,3 e 9,9 W.g-1) e três Pressões de Vácuo - VP (0, 300 e 600 mmHg). Também foram analisados os resultados de FOS, cinética de secagem, difusividade, retração, temperatura yacon e reidratação. Os resultados mostraram que o aumento da PD por micro-ondas reduziu o tempo de secagem, a umidade e a atividade de água com PVOD. Além disso, o aumento da PD teve uma influência positiva na retenção de FOS, difusividade, temperatura e retração. A pressão do vácuo também afetou significativamente a retenção de FOS nas amostras pré-tratadas e ajudou na secagem. Micro-ondas com maior densidade de potência aumentaram a difusividade efetiva e facilitaram a retenção de FOS. A pressão do vácuo também afetou a secagem e a retenção de FOS das amostras pré-tratadas. De modo geral, o escurecimento da yacon ocorreu em todos os tratamentos, independente do pré-tratamento. Condições de processamento com PD de 9,9 Wg-1 e pressão de vácuo de 600 mmHg para amostras osmoticamente desidratadas são ideais para secagem de fatias de yacon por micro-ondas-vácuo, aumentando o teor de FOS em até 40%.

ABSTRACT Yacon, a perennial plant from the Andean region, is particularly rich in fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and inulin. However, these saccharides are rapidly hydrolyzed after harvest, affecting the functional characteristics of yacon. Therefore, a preservation technology such as drying is warranted to preserve the FOS content of yacon products during the off-season. To this end, we dried yacon slices, either untreated or pretreated with pulsed vacuum osmotic dehydration (PVOD), in a microwave vacuum (MWV). PVOD was performed using a sorbitol solution (38 °Brix, 35 °C, and 681 mmHg during the first 10 min). A three-level experimental design with three initial power densities (PDs) of 3.6, 6.3, and 9.9 W.g−1 and three vacuum pressures (VPs) of 0, 300, and 600 mmHg was employed to perform the MWV drying experiments. FOS content, drying kinetics, diffusivity, shrinkage, yacon temperature, and rehydration were investigated. We observed that during PVOD, as microwave PD increased, the drying time, moisture, and water activity decreased. Moreover, an increase in PD positively affected FOS retention, diffusivity, temperature, and shrinkage. Furthermore, VP significantly affected FOS retention in pretreated samples and facilitated drying. In addition, microwaves with a higher PD increased the effective diffusivity and facilitated FOS retention. VP also affected the drying and FOS retention of pretreated samples. In general, yacon browning was observed under all treatment conditions, independent of pretreatment. For osmotically dehydrated samples, processing conditions with a PD of 9.9 W.g−1 and vacuum pressure of 600 mmHg are ideal for drying yacon slices via microwave vacuum, thereby increasing the FOS content by approximately 40%.

Resumen: Este artículo presenta un modelo matemático para la ubicación óptima de reconectadores utilizando la técnica de optimización de algoritmos genéticos en sistemas de distribución, considerando la inserción de recursos distribuidos, como los sistemas distribuidos. La metodología incluye la solución del flujo de potencia utilizando el software de código abierto OpenDSS, a través de la interfaz desarrollada por Electric Power Research Institute - EPRI. Los valores de voltajes, corrientes, potencias e indicadores SAIFI/SAIDI se transfieren al software Matlab. El algoritmo de optimización determina las posiciones adecuadas para instalar reconectadores.

Abstract: This paper presents a mathematical model for optimal location of reclosers placement using the genetic algorithm optimization technique in distribution systems, considering the insertion of distributed resources, such as distributed systems. The methodology includes the power flow solution using the open-source software OpenDSS, through the interface developed by Electric Power Research Institute - EPRI. The values of voltages, currents, powers and SAIFI/SAIDI indicators are transferred to Matlab software. The optimization algorithm determines the proper positions to install reclosers.

ABSTRACT The current project of Biomass Power Plants in the sugar industry of Cuba, has as limitation the access to the water required for condensation. A possible solution would be the use of air-cooled condenser (ACC), however, the thermal assessment of a ACC is imprecise since the available methods are in extreme complex and do not characterize adequately the overall heat transfer coefficient (K), being required the use of excesses of heat transfer surface, which increments costs of the facilities. The objective was to develop a valid model for any zone of operation and regimen of flow that computes the coefficient K with a smaller index of dispersion than the available models.The current status of the thermal analysis in an ACC and the methods used for each zone of operation, characteristics and limitations are shown. A differential and correlation analysis to obtain a single model, which is just for the four zones of dominant flow, was made. In the validation it is verified that the proposed model correlates with an average error of ±22% in 88,7 % of available experimental data, reducing in a third part the errors of the current methods used. This work shows that the use of the dominant flow criteria enables reducing the indexes of uncertainty in the thermal evaluation of the ACC, which derive in a larger reliability in the assessment analysis and eludes the use of excesses of heat transfer surface due to a low reliability in the thermal analysis.

RESUMEN El proyecto actual de centrales eléctricas de biomasa en la industria azucarera de Cuba, tiene como limitante el acceso al agua requerida para condensación. Una posible solución sería el uso de aerocondensadores (ACC), sin embargo, su evaluación térmica es imprecisa puesto que los métodos disponibles son en extremo complejos y no caracterizan adecuadamente el coeficiente global de transferencia de calor (K), siendo requerido el uso de excesos de área de transferencia de calor, incrementando los costos iniciales. El objetivo fue desarrollar un modelo válido para cualquier zona de operación y régimen de flujo, que compute el coeficiente K con un menor índice de dispersión que las expresiones disponibles. Se mostró el estado actual del análisis térmico en un ACC y los métodos utilizados para cada zona de operación, sus características y limitantes. Se realizó un análisis diferencial y de correlación para obtener un modelo único, el cual es justo para las cuatro zonas de flujo dominante. En la validación se comprobó que la propuesta correlaciona con un error medio de ±22% en el 88,7 % de las muestras disponibles, reduciendo en una tercera parte la incertidumbre de los métodos actualmente utilizados. El estudio realizado muestra que el uso del criterio de flujo dominante permite reducir apreciablemente los índices de incertidumbre en la evaluación térmica del ACC, lo cual deriva en una mayor confiabilidad en el análisis ingenieril y evita el uso de excesos de áreas por baja confiabilidad de análisis.

ABSTRACT Advanced visualization techniques allow relevant information to be presented in the right format and at the right time through visual interfaces so that operations can be executed efficiently. These techniques help prevent errors and misinterpretations that could lead to insecurity situations or equipment failures. They constitute one of the most relevant techniques in the field of computing, in many cases using specialized hardware such as Small Plate Computers. They are characterized by their low cost, high performance and lower power consumption compared to conventional computers. This can lead to an efficient result and at a lower cost. The main contribution of this work is a software capable of checking and visually representing the technical status of the autopilot of an aircraft using the Lattepanda V1 single board computer. For the solution, parallel programming methods were used with Thread in Visual Studio and .Net with Framework 4.5, which contributed to the efficient use of SBC resources and increased economic profitability compared to personal computers.

RESUMEN Las avanzadas técnicas de visualización permiten que la información relevante se presente en el formato y en el momento adecuado por medio de interfaces visuales para que las operaciones se ejecuten de forma eficiente. Estas técnicas ayudan a prevenir errores y malas interpretaciones que podrían conducir a situaciones de inseguridad o fallos en los equipos. Las mismas constituyen una de las técnicas más relevantes dentro del campo de la informática, en muchos casos empleando hardware especializados como son las Computadoras de Placas Reducidas. Se caracterizan por su bajo costo, alto rendimiento y menor consumo de potencia con respecto a las computadoras convencionales. Lo que puede propiciar un resultado eficiente y con un menor costo. La principal contribución de este trabajo es un software capaz de comprobar y representar visualmente el estado técnico del autopiloto de una aeronave empleando el computador de placa reducida Lattepanda V1. Para la solución se empleó métodos de programación paralela con Thread en Visual Studio y .Net con el Framework 4.5, lo que contribuyó al uso eficiencia de los recursos del SBC y aumentó la rentabilidad económica en comparación con las computadoras personales.

Resumen: El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el cambio de color y la rugosidad de la superficie de giomer, resina compuesta microhíbrida y resina compuesta nanohíbrida posterior al cepillado con dentífricos blanqueadores. Las muestras en forma de disco de cada material se dividieron en tres subgrupos (n=10), con el color inicial medido con un espectrofotómetro y la rugosidad de la superficie medida con un perfilómetro mecánico. Las muestras, que se sumergieron en una solución de café, se cepillaron una vez al día con pastas dentales blanqueadoras (Opalescence Cool Mint (OCM), Colgate Optic White Extra Power (COW) y Signal White Now Gold (SWN)) durante 12 días. El cambio de color y la rugosidad de la superficie se midieron nuevamente después del ciclo de coloración-cepillado. El mayor aumento en la rugosidad de la superficie se observó en el grupo de la resina compuesta microhíbrida al que se le aplicó SWN (p<0,05). El grupo de menor incremento fue el grupo de giomer aplicado con SWN (p<0.05). Mientras que el menor cambio de color se observó en el grupo de resina compuesta nanohíbrida aplicado con COW (ΔE00=1,814), el mayor cambio de color ocurrió en el grupo de giomer con COW (ΔE00=5,943). Posterior al uso de pastas dentales blanqueadoras, la rugosidad del giomer, y de las resinas compuestas microhíbridas y nanohíbridas aumentó, siendo que se observó un cambio de color por encima del valor clínicamente aceptado.

Abstract: To examine the colour change and surface roughness of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite after brushing with whitening toothpastes. Disc-shaped samples of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite were divided into three subgroups(n=10), with the initial colour measured with a spectrophotometer and the surface roughness measured with a mechanical profilometer. The samples, which were immersed in coffee solution were brushed once a day with whitening toothpastes (Opalescence Cool Mint (OCM), Colgate Optic White Extra Power (COW) and Signal White Now Gold (SWN)) for 12 days. Colour change and surface roughness were measured again after the colouring-brushing cycle. All of the analyses were performed using appropriate statistical hypothesis tests. The highest increase in surface roughness was seen in the microhybrid composite group applied with SWN (p<0.05). The group with the least increase was the giomer group applied with SWN (p<0.05). While the least colour change was observed in the COW applied nanohybrid composite group (ΔE00=1,814), the most colour change occurred in the COW applied giomer group (ΔE00=5.943). After the use of whitening toothpastes, the roughness of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite surfaces was increased and a colour change above the clinically accepted value was observed.

RESUMEN El sistema penitenciario ecuatoriano atraviesa una grave crisis, sin que se vislumbre una solución definitiva tanto en lo estructural como en materia de derechos humanos de las personas privadas de libertad. El ejercicio del poder punitivo del Estado se ha centrado en el uso de la prisión como mecanismo privilegiado, desconociendo prácticas alternativas que pudieran asegurar de mejor manera los derechos humanos y racionalizar la ejecución de la pena, por lo que se considera pertinente la aplicación de un enfoque multidisciplinario que haga frente a un problema multicausal, como es la crisis referida, que debe ser entendida como un reflejo de la conflictividad social y la pugna entre el Estado y los grupos delictivos. Los aspectos fundamentales relacionados con esas ideas se analizan en el presente artículo, con base en una revisión documental y estadística de la situación actual que permite avizorar un futuro más complejo de no adoptarse medidas apropiadas que garanticen la funcionalidad del sistema y los derechos de los privados de libertad.

ABSTRACT The Ecuadorian prison system has been in crisis, with no definitive solution currently in sight, both structurally and in terms of people's human rights deprived of liberty. The State punitive power exercise has focused on the use of prison as a privileged mechanism, ignoring alternative practices that could better ensure human rights and rationalize the execution of the sentence, for which the application of a multidisciplinary approach that addresses a multicausal problem such as the crisis in the prison system that can be understood as a reflection of social conflict and the struggle between the State and criminal groups. The fundamental aspects related to these ideas are analyzed in this article, based on a documentary and statistical review of the current situation that allows us to foresee a more complex future if appropriate measures are not adopted to guarantee the system's functionality and the citizens' rights deprived of liberty.