Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven the evolution of adaptive hybrid learning models in higher education by enabling immediate feedback, dynamic adjustment of activities, and data‑driven personalization. In UPEC’s Mathematics leveling courses, these functionalities are particularly relevant due to gaps in students’ digital competences and variability in academic performance. Objective: To analyze the impact of an AI‑mediated adaptive hybrid learning model on students’ digital competences (DigCompEdu adapted to the mathematical context) and academic performance (pre–post), as well as to examine the relationships between feedback, adaptive learning, and the ethical use of AI. Methodology: A quantitative quasi‑experimental pretest–posttest study without a control group was conducted with two leveling cohorts (N = 500). Diagnostic and final tests were administered to measure performance, and a perception instrument based on DigCompEdu was used to assess digital competences. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, repeated‑measures ANOVA, and multiple regression of academic gain were performed. Results: The instrument demonstrated high internal reliability (α ≥ 0.74–0.98). All dimensions of digital competence obtained mean scores above 4.0, with strong correlations between indices (p < .001). However, the multiple regression model did not significantly predict academic gain (R² = 0.008; p > .05), indicating that favorable perceptions and strengthened digital competences did not directly translate into improved performance. Conclusion: AI‑mediated adaptive hybrid learning environments enhance digital competences and are positively valued by students, but their direct effect on academic performance is not automatic. Robust instructional design, objective learning metrics, and greater experimental control are required, alongside ethical practices aligned with international standards. General field of study: Education. Specific field of study: Mathematics education and educational technology. Type of study: Article original.

Introduction: work-related stress among critical care nursing staff represents a significant occupational health problem in Latin America, aggravated by budget limitations, human resource deficits, and COVID-19 pandemic impact. Objective: to systematically analyze scientific evidence on the impact of work-related stress on nursing staff performance in critical care areas of Latin American hospitals during 2020-2025. Methodology: systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Scientific databases were consulted (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, SciELO, Dialnet), until November 2025. From 135 initial records, 28 high-quality studies were analyzed using CASP and Newcastle-Ottawa tools. Results: average burnout syndrome prevalence was 43.8%, reaching 84.4% in pandemic contexts. Work overload was reported in 85.7% of studies. Emotional exhaustion affected 62.8% of staff, depersonalization 64.9%, and 77.7% reported low professional development. Stress directly impacts patient safety, increasing clinical errors. Conclusion: work-related stress constitutes a structural consequence of systemic deficiencies, not an individual problem. Effective interventions require organizational improvements, systematic psychological support, and occupational health policies. Investing in staff occupational health is strategic for quality and sustainability of Latin American health systems. General study area: Health Sciences. Specific study area: Nursing / Occupational Health. Type of study: Systematic literature review.

Introducción: el presente estudio se centra en explorar el impacto del eye tracking en la publicidad emocional y su influencia en la percepción de marca en los contextos culturales de España y Ecuador. Objetivos: analizar el impacto del eye tracking en la publicidad emocional y su influencia en la percepción de marca, comparando los contextos culturales de España y Ecuador. Metodología: utilizando una metodología cualitativa, a través de la revisión de estudios que emplearon el eye tracking como herramienta de neuromarketing, se analizaron las respuestas emocionales y visuales de los consumidores frente a diferentes estímulos publicitarios. Resultados: los resultados muestran que los elementos visuales emocionalmente resonantes captan mayor atención y favorecen la recordación de la marca. Sin embargo, se evidencian diferencias culturales y contextuales en la percepción y respuesta emocional, lo que demuestra la importancia de adaptar las campañas a los contextos en los que se implementen. Conclusiones: la investigación concluye que si bien el eye tracking es una herramienta eficaz para entender la atención visual y emocional en publicidad, su interpretación requiere de una evaluación contextualizada que considere las diversidades culturales y emocionales de los públicos de cada país o región objeto de estudio. Por ello, se recomienda seguir desarrollando metodologías integradas que combinen análisis cuantitativos y cualitativos para optimizar las estrategias publicitarias emocionales en los distintos mercados. Área de estudio general: comunicación. Área de estudio específica: neuromarketing y publicidad. emocional. Tipo de artículo: revisión bibliográfica narrativa.

Introduction: the poultry industry operates in a highly competitive environment, where feed costs represent between 60% and 70% of operating costs. Although automated farms generate large volumes of environmental data through IoT systems, their potential is often underutilized in decision-making. Objectives: to develop a predictive model based on multiple linear regression to estimate the weekly FCR in automated poultry farms under humid tropical conditions of Ecuador. Methodology: a retrospective longitudinal observational study was conducted with 936 weekly records (2022-2025) from seven automated farms. Multiple linear regression was applied with stratified hold-out validation (80/20), assessment of statistical assumptions, and evaluation using R², MAE, and RMSE. Results: the model demonstrated robust predictive capacity with R² = 0.774 (training) and R² = 0.739 (external validation), accompanied by MAE = 0.088 and RMSE = 0.109. Significant variables (p < 0.001) included ambient temperature (β = -0.0445 FCR units/°C), relative humidity (β = +0.00858 FCR units/%), physiological phase (β = +0.198 FCR units for weeks 5-7), and genetic line (β = +0.072 FCR units for ROSS 308). CO₂ and NH₃ did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: the model demonstrates predictive capacity for preventive FCR management under humid tropical conditions, offering an interpretable tool for immediate implementation that enables reliable weekly projections with direct implications for profitability through optimization of feed efficiency. General study area: Agricultural Engineering. Specific study area: Precision Poultry Farming. Type of study: Original article.

Introduction. The Ecuadorian shrimp industry represents a strategic economic sector and the main non-oil export. Despite international recognition for quality and traceability, deficiencies in cold storage operations compromise efficiency and export standards. The lack of automated temperature control, manual processes, and absence of monitoring systems affect product safety and freshness, leading to economic losses and reduced customer satisfaction. This study aims to optimize the department through technological, operational, and quality control improvements. Objective: To optimize the performance of the cold storage department in shrimp export through technology, process standardization, and human capital development. Specific objectives were to increase loading plan compliance, reduce preparation time, maintain optimal temperature range, minimize product loss, and improve customer satisfaction. Methodology: A mixed-method approach was used, combining quantitative measures of five key indicators pre- and post-intervention, with qualitative data from semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and document review. The population included all cold storage staff and six months of historical records; a non-probabilistic sample of 25 employees was selected. Data was collected using temperature logs, loading control forms, satisfaction surveys, and observation logs. The intervention included IoT sensor installation, transcritical CO₂ refrigeration, standardized processes, and staff training. Data analysis included descriptive and pre–post comparative statistics. Results: Post-intervention, loading plan compliance increased from 16.6% to 109.17%, preparation time decreased from 120 to 30 minutes, temperature range stabilized at 100%, product loss decreased from 6.4% to 0.8%, and customer satisfaction increased from 71% to 94%. The results demonstrate that combining advanced technology, standardized procedures, and continuous training improves operational efficiency, reduces economic losses, and ensures exportable shrimp quality. Conclusion: Integrating IoT monitoring, advanced refrigeration, and staff training optimizes the cold storage department’s performance, ensuring quality, traceability, and international competitiveness of Ecuadorian shrimp. This model is replicable and sustainable for other agro-industrial companies. General Area of Study: Logistics and Supply Chain. Specific area of study: Operations and Process Management. Type of study: Original articles.

Introduction: The use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in secondary education enabled the transition from traditional models to dynamic learning environments. In physics education, specifically in complex topics such as motion, digital simulators have emerged as key tools for facilitating the visualization and experimentation of abstract concepts. Objective: To determine the impact of the use of digital simulators on the understanding of the topic of Motion in the subject of Physics, in first year students of General Unified Baccalaureate. Methodology: The research is explanatory in nature with a quantitative-experimental approach. Theoretical methods such as inductive-deductive reasoning were used to formulate hypotheses, and empirical methods were employed using observation guides and structured surveys. Statistical analysis compared the effectiveness of the simulators before and after the intervention in a student population divided into a control group and an experimental group. Results: The results show that the use of digital simulators improves students' understanding of the topic of Motion and their academic performance. Both groups started with the same level of knowledge; after the intervention, the experimental group achieved an increase of 1.68 points on the post-test, greater than the 0.80-point increase of the control group. Furthermore, greater motivation and participation were observed, confirming the pedagogical effectiveness of digital simulators for meaningful learning in Physics. Conclusion: The use of digital simulators establishes an effective pedagogical strategy to improve the understanding of the topic of Motion in Physics, by promoting meaningful learning, greater motivation and better academic performance in students, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods and contributing to the strengthening of the teaching-learning process. General Area of Study: Education. Specific area of study: Digital Environment. Type of study: Original article.

Introducción: en respuesta a los desafíos que enfrenta el sistema educativo contemporáneo, se plantea la necesidad de incorporar metodologías activas que atiendan los cambios sociales, tecnológicos y culturales del siglo XXI. Objetivos: el estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar la incidencia de la gamificación como estrategia didáctica en el aprendizaje de los estudios sociales en estudiantes de educación básica superior. fundamentado en la teoría constructivista, se reconoce que el conocimiento se construye a partir de experiencias significativas, pensamiento crítico y participación estudiantil. Metodología: la investigación adoptó un diseño no experimental de tipo transversal, con enfoque exploratorio y descriptivo, aplicando una encuesta estructurada a 18 educandos, validada mediante un coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach de 0,878 que garantiza la fiabilidad del instrumento. Resultados: los resultados reflejaron percepciones mayoritariamente neutras respecto al uso de estrategias gamificadas y recursos interactivos, evidenciando la necesidad de fortalecer la planificación pedagógica. La discusión confirma que, cuando la gamificación es estructurada y contextualizada, dinamiza el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, mejora el desempeño académico y promueve la inclusión formativa. Conclusiones: se alcanzaron los objetivos planteados al identificar fundamentos teóricos, caracterizar herramientas digitales aplicables y evidenciar el potencial transformador de la gamificación en el aula, aportando al campo de la innovación educativa y resultando de utilidad para docentes, investigadores y gestores comprometidos con el que hacer pedagógico. Área de estudio general: Educación. Área de estudio específica: Gamificación en Estudios Sociales. Tipo de estudio: Artículo original.

Introduction: digital transformation becomes a decisive factor for the competitiveness of microenterprises, especially in contexts where technical, economic, and organizational barriers prevail. In Ecuador, this sector accounts for more than 90% of productive units, yet it shows delays in technological adoption and access to support ecosystems, which limits its operational efficiency and sustainability. Objective: To analyze digital transformation in Ecuadorian microenterprises in the commerce and services sector, identifying barriers, level of technological adoption, and strategies aimed at improving their operational efficiency. Methodology: A study was conducted under the pragmatic paradigm, with a mixed methods approach, a non-experimental, cross-sectional design, and a descriptive-explanatory scope. Two hundred structured surveys were administered, distributed across five key thematic blocks. Quantitative data were processed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic coding. Subsequently, strategies were formulated and validated through expert judgment by five specialists, applying Kendall's W coefficient of concordance. Results: The findings show an extensive use of basic digital tools (71.5%), presence on social media (73.5%), and online sales (61%). However, significant barriers persist, such as lack of digital knowledge (54%), high technology costs (66%), and low institutional support (22.5%). Expert validation revealed high levels of consensus (W > 0.75), highlighting dimensions such as attitude toward digitalization (5/5) and technological adoption (4.6/5), while institutional support (3.2/5) and economic barriers (3.6/5) received the lowest scores. Conclusion: Digital transformation has a positive impact on the operational efficiency of microenterprises, but its full effect depends on overcoming technical, financial, and institutional coordination limitations. The proposed strategies—modular training, adapted financing mechanisms, organizational strengthening, and institutional support networks—are consolidated as viable solutions to foster effective and sustainable digitalization. General field of study: Business sciences. Specific field of study: Business management / transformation in microenterprises. Type of study: Original article.

Introduction: higher education in Ecuador faces complex scenarios regarding academic and administrative processes prior to undergraduate graduation, influenced by the fulfillment of requirements, study modalities, and the growing student demand for certain programs. Objective: to analyze the risk of undergraduate graduation by integrating academic and administrative factors and using interactive data analysis tools to identify at-risk cases early and propose institutional strategies to optimize the graduation process. Methodology: the methodology applied was a mixed approach, non-experimental and retrospective, focused on the collection of information from an anonymized dataset of student data, with a sample of 604 records. Results: the administrative and academic factors that significantly influence student suitability to access the undergraduate graduation process were identified. Qualitative and quantitative analysis made it possible to establish the level of potentially substantial risk in students who present delays. Using the dashboard designed for this study, it was possible to visualize risks and facilitate timely and initiative-taking institutional decision-making. Conclusion: it was determined that applying early risk analysis within academic management in programs with a high number of enrolled students allows students with problems prior to graduation to be identified, enabling appropriate decisions to be made at the academic management level. General Area of ​​Study: Data Analytics. Specific Area of ​​Study: Risk Analysis. Type of Study: Original article.

Área general de estudio: Análisis de datos

Área específica de estudio: Análisis de riesgos

Tipo de estudio: Artículos, Conjunto de datos

Introduction: Operational efficiency in Ecuador presents a heterogeneous reality: while large companies and entities are advancing by incorporating digital technologies, others are progressing. Objective: The general objective of this research is to design a Strategic Management Model for University Physical Security (MGESFU), based on risk reduction and improved operational efficiency. Methodology: This research was applied using a mixed-methods approach, with a non-experimental design, a descriptive and exploratory scope, and is framed within the type of basic and documentary research, with a cross-sectional design. The study was conducted at a private university with a finite population of 10,000 students and 150 faculty members. A probabilistic sample was drawn using simple random sampling for the students, resulting in a sample of 371 students; and a non-probabilistic sample, using purposive and convenience sampling, composed of 15 faculty members. Results: The results revealed weaknesses in preventive actions related to the identification and signage of risk zones. 55.43% of respondents felt that risk areas were not properly marked, demonstrating insufficient preventive management within the university infrastructure. This perception limits students' ability to recognize dangerous situations and act promptly. Conclusion: Structured physical security management significantly contributes to improved operational efficiency by reducing disruptions, optimizing resources, and strengthening the continuity of academic and administrative processes. General Area of Study: Administration. Specific area of study: Operational Efficiency. Type of study: Original article.

Introduction: the development of generative Deep Learning introduced new forms of risk in the digital environment, particularly in relation to the production and dissemination of synthetic sexual content that affects children and adolescents. These technologies allow for the creation of highly realistic representations without the need for prior material fact, posing significant challenges for criminalization, attribution of responsibility, and evidentiary assessment. Objectives: this article analyzes the criminal responsibility derived from the use of Deep Learning in crimes against minors from a legal-analytical approach with a socio-technical basis, aimed at evaluating the sufficiency of the Ecuadorian criminal framework in the face of emerging technological risks. Methodology: through a normative-comparative analysis and the critical examination of the evidentiary challenges associated with synthetic digital evidence, typification gaps and tensions with the principles of legality and culpability are identified. Results: existence of a regulatory vacuum in Ecuador, ineffectiveness of the traditional penal model against crimes with AI. Conclusions: finally, normative guidelines and technical guidelines are proposed to strengthen an effective, safeguarding criminal response focused on the comprehensive protection of children against the illicit uses of artificial intelligence. General area of study: Social Sciences. Specific area of study: Jurisprudence. Type of item: original.