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Nowadays, climate change is not the only threat facing our planet. There are also other types of pollution such as waste that poisons soils and water and kills plants, harming humans and animals. Sustainability represents a key issue for the actual Global Citizen. For this reason, our article is dedicated to offering biofriendly solutions to decrease wastes, give them a positive meaning, such as a substrate for an edible oyster fungus with nutritive and biological properties usefully for humans. Three types of wastes such as coconut coir, pine sawdust, and paper waste—representative symbols of pollution in Ecuador—have been tested as suitable growing substrate for the edible fungi Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) P. Kumm by analyzing parameters such as Biological Efficiency, Mushroom Yield, and Productive Rate. The influence of these "waste" substrates on the nutritive (protein content), biological characteristic (antioxidant activity), and the content of human-health-sustaining compounds (phenols, flavonoids) were also evaluated using the Kjeldahal, DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and Folin–Ciocalteu methods. The results indicate that all the waste products represent desirable substrates for growing the edible fungi, with more focus on coconut coir waste (one of the principal pollution problems in Ecuador), but that also achieved the increase in the fungi's desirable characteristics. Coconut coir waste could be an environmentally friendly solution that also offers for humans additional nutritive and healthy benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given that Ecuadorians are one of the largest groups of Hispanics living in New York, they have become a tight community that they now call little Ecuador. Although Ecuadorians living in the diaspora in NYC come from different parts of the country (mostly from the Andean region), they share the same cultural practices they performed in Ecuador that give them the sense of being in their country without bearing the instability and turmoil their country experiences. This shows how the group has fostered a sense of a multifaceted, multidimensional simultaneity between the host country and the motherland. The goal of this paper is to analyze the strategies Ecuadorian migrants use to validate their language and cultural practices to negotiate their identity as a group. Data for this paper come from ethnographic observations, semi-spontaneous conversations, oral interviews with members of the group, along with pictures taken while walking the community and participating in some of their events. Our study reveals that participants hold varying perceptions regarding their linguistic and cultural practices. However, it is noteworthy that they recognize these practices as a manifestation of Ecuadorianness, signifying a sense of solidarity among community members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many countries, the advancement of hydropower resources has been hindered by economic factors and insufficient data on topography, streamflow, environmental sensitivity, power grid, and, most importantly, the location of potential hydropower sites. This challenge is particularly pronounced in certain African and Latin American river systems. Developing web-based maps of hydropower resources based on geographic information systems and advanced mapping technologies can facilitate the initial assessment of hydropower sites. This is especially relevant for developing sites in remote areas and data-scarce regions. The available geospatial datasets, remote sensing technologies, and advanced GIS modelling techniques can be used to identify potential hydropower sites and assess their preliminary characteristics. This paper reviews web-based hydropower atlases in African and Latin American countries. Their main features are represented and compared with the recently launched HYPOSO map viewer covering two African countries (Cameroon and Uganda) and three Latin American countries (Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador). This hydropower atlas consists of 20 spatial layers. Its particular focus is to present a geospatial dataset of new hydropower sites with concise information for potential investors. These so-called virtual hydropower atlases can be only one type of discovery at the early project stage, automatically identifying sites worthy of further investigation. A formal validation of the web-based atlases, including the HYPOSO hydropower atlas, is briefly considered. Creating open-access hydropower map viewers is anticipated to significantly enhance the hydropower development database in these nations, offering valuable insights for small and medium-scale projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unemployment, a significant economic and social challenge, triggers repercussions that affect individual workers and companies, generating a national economic impact. Forecasting the unemployment rate becomes essential for policymakers, allowing them to make short-term estimates, assess economic health, and make informed monetary policy decisions. This paper proposes the innovative GA-LSTM method, which fuses an LSTM neural network with a genetic algorithm to address challenges in unemployment prediction. Effective parameter determination in recurrent neural networks is crucial and a well-known challenge. The research uses the LSTM neural network to overcome complexities and nonlinearities in unemployment predictions, complementing it with a genetic algorithm to optimize the parameters. The central objective is to evaluate recurrent neural network models by comparing them with GA-LSTM to identify the most appropriate model for predicting unemployment in Ecuador using monthly data collected by various organizations. The results demonstrate that the hybrid GA-LSTM model outperforms traditional approaches, such as BiLSTM and GRU, on various performance metrics. This finding suggests that the combination of the predictive power of LSTM with the optimization capacity of the genetic algorithm offers a robust and effective solution to address the complexity of predicting unemployment in Ecuador. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the emissions of the three most sold categories of light vehicles: sedans, SUVs, and pickups. The research is carried out through an innovative methodology based on GPS and machine learning in real driving conditions. For this purpose, driving data from the three best-selling vehicles in Ecuador are acquired using a data logger with GPS included, and emissions are measured using a PEMS in six RDE tests with two standardized routes for each vehicle. The data obtained on Route 1 are used to estimate the gears used during driving using the K-means algorithm and classification trees. Then, the relative importance of driving variables is estimated using random forest techniques, followed by the training of ANNs to estimate CO2, CO, NOX, and HC. The data generated on Route 2 are used to validate the obtained ANNs. These models are fed with a dataset generated from 324, 300, and 316 km of random driving for each type of vehicle. The results of the model were compared with the IVE model and an OBD-based model, showing similar results without the need to mount the PEMS on the vehicles for long test drives. The generated model is robust to different traffic conditions as a result of its training and validation using a large amount of data obtained under completely random driving conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-constructed cities refer to impoverished neighborhoods that suffer from inadequate housing. Such cities are the result of individual or communal initiatives that must self-construct their neighborhoods. Most of the self-constructed cities are located near endangered bioregions on the Earth, and their continued growth will inevitably aggravate the human impact on our planet. Dwellers in these areas tackle threats such as poverty, environmental degradation, and disaster vulnerability. The lack of knowledge in planning self-constructed cities causes conditions of injustice. However, appropriate management of the existing natural capital of the surrounding areas of such cities can address the mentioned challenges and the conditions for justice. This paper aims to evaluate the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in planning procedures, to create conditions of fairness and equity in self-constructed cities. The paper focused on the linkage between the application of NBS and four principles of justice: distributive justice, restorative justice, spatial justice, and interactional justice. Considering data from a review of the literature, scrutiny of past planning and policy measures and a field study with interviews with stakeholders, the empirical result of our study delineates important strategic implications of Nature-Based Solutions for sustainable planning in the case study of San José de Chamanga, Ecuador. It was demonstrated how small-scale, natural-based interventions, instead of broader actions based on a pure engineering perspective, are economically and ecologically profitable, with a positive impact on local communities' well-being and social cohesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impact of green advertising and eco-labels on the attitudes and environmental awareness of millennials purchasing eco-friendly products in shopping centers across Ecuador. The research utilized a quantitative, correlational, cross-sectional methodology with 430 millennials participating. A 20-item survey was administered face-to-face at shopping centers in Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador. The validity of the research model was established through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), employing SPSS 20 and AMOS 24 for statistical evaluations. Findings reveal that green advertising significantly shapes environmental attitudes (β: 0.245) and awareness (β: 0.110), as well as directly influences the purchasing behavior (β: 0.154) towards green products. While eco-labels do not exert a direct effect on purchasing behavior (β: 0.128), they significantly inform attitudes (β: 0.406) and ecological awareness (β: 0.277) of millennials who purchase organic products. This paper is among the pioneering research to delineate the correlation between green advertising elements and the purchasing patterns of green products among millennials in a developing nation. It concludes that marketing strategies centered on green advertising and eco-labels do affect millennials' attitudes and environmental consciousness, but only advertising has a direct impact on purchasing behaviors, contrary to eco-labels. The research bears social significance as it affirms that millennials are attentive to environmental issues and are actively engaged in promoting sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas are considered the backbone of biodiversity conservation, but their management often fails because local people are not involved, and their needs are ignored. A socioecological approach has been demonstrated to be effective in improving the relationship between conservation efforts and human wellbeing through a better understanding of the interdependence between nature and people. This relationship can be observed through the case of the Kichwa indigenous communities within Yasuní National Park, Ecuador, as they have retained a very close relationship with forest ecosystems. Using key respondent interviews, along with semi-structured interviews and focus groups, this research describes the complex relationship between changing forest ecosystems and human wellbeing. The results highlight food, health, and cultural identity as the most important benefits that communities obtain from forests. The research also sheds light on how people in the investigated area perceive the dynamics of socioecological systems, indicating petroleum, infrastructure development, and small-scale agriculture as the most important direct drivers and land governance and the presence of colonists as the most important indirect drivers of changes to forest ecosystems. This paper demonstrates the importance of monitoring socioecological systems and adapting management to balance complex economic, social, and ecological challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diphenolic diterpene carnosol was isolated from several species of the family Lamiaceae, including Lepechinia mutica, a medicinal plant endemic to Ecuador. The compound has exhibited high antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and antifungal properties, as well as promising cytotoxicity against prostate, breast, skin, leukemia, and human colon cancer cell lines. In this paper, we developed and validated a simple, accurate, and reliable analytical HPLC-UV-ESI-IT-MS method, carried out on a C18 column, which is potentially suitable to quantify carnosol in plant extracts. The procedure complied with the established ICH validation parameters of analytical range (linearity in the range of 0.19–5.64 μg/g dried leaves; REAVERGE = 4.9%; R2 = 0.99907), analysis repeatability (RSD = 2.8–3.6%), intermediate precision (RSD = 1.9–3.6%), accuracy (estimated as % carnosol recovery in the range of 81 to 108%), and robustness. Finally, the LOD (0.04 µg/mg) and LOQ (0.19 μg/mg) values of carnosol/dried leaves were determined. Using this validated method, the content of carnosol in L. mutica was estimated to be 0.81 ± 0.04 mg/g of dried leaves (0.081%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many young children in Ecuador suffer from high rates of malnutrition and stunting that affect their long-term growth and development. Little is known about the dietary patterns of children from the Amazon region who experience some of the highest rates of stunting (height-for-age) within Ecuador. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 mothers of young children living in the Ecuadorian Amazon. In addition to descriptions of overall dietary patterns, three themes emerged from the interviews relating to strengths mothers have in feeding their children healthy diets: knowledge, autonomous and independent children, and supportive and responsive parenting. Five themes were found relating to barriers mothers have in feeding their children healthy diets. The first four themes concerned barriers (lack of knowledge of healthy foods, lack of access to healthy foods, not enough money, and child's health) related to multidimensional poverty. All these influenced the last theme found, namely, how difficult of an eater the child was. The implications of intervention efforts to reduce undernutrition and promote children's development by building on specific family and community strengths and identified barriers are also discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a fuzzy-based energy management strategy (EMS) to maximize the self-consumption from a PV installation with an energy storage system (ESS) for the residential sector adapted to the Ecuadorian electricity market. The EMS includes two control levels: Energy management at the end-user level (Fuzzy-based EMS and optimized by genetic Algorithm) and Energy management at the distribution grid level (Fuzzy-based EMS). Both strategies aim to maximize the use of the energy generated at home (taking into account the local solar generation profile), fulfilling the loads' demand and injecting the energy surplus into the main grid to be economically compensated. Additionally, this paper presents economical modeling according to the electricity market in Ecuador. The main results showed a cost reduction in the electricity bill up to 83.64% from the base case (residential consumption without a PV system). In the scenario of a community electricity market (still not contemplated under the Ecuadorian electricity law), the potential economic savings may be more than double compared to the exact case but only with a self-consumption system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador has, in proportion of its size, one of the richest floras of Latin America and the world; the country also has an immense cultural heritage due to the presence of different ethnic groups that have implemented the use of many wild and cultivated plants, mainly as medicinal remedies. In a recent publication, we have summarized the results of research activities recently carried out on about 120 plants native to Ecuador, which includes the structures of non-volatile isolated compounds, as well as the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) and the in vitro tested biological activity data. For the sake of completeness, we have collected in this paper the main information obtained from recent ethnobotanical investigations on other important Ecuadorian medicinal plants for which phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological studies are, however, still largely lacking. Thus, one of the objectives of this paper is to preserve the traditional knowledge of Ecuadorian Indigenous communities which, being transmitted orally, is in danger of becoming lost. Moreover, it is our intention to stimulate more extensive studies on the rich medicinal flora of the country, which can provide economic and social benefits, especially to the people who traditionally cultivate or collect the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conflicts over large-scale mining in Latin America have received growing scholarly attention. Whereas this scholarship has provided very valuable insights into the anatomies of these conflicts, the role of religious ideas and actors has received scant attention. This is remarkable, since the largest church of Latin America, the Catholic Church, seems to be in the midst of an ecological reorientation and increasingly emphasizes its image of the 'Church of the poor and the Earth'. This research aims to fill this gap and examines the role of Catholic ideas and organizations in mining conflicts. Combining document analysis and ethnographic research on a mining project in Ecuador, the paper argues that Catholic ideas and actors play a significant role in discourses regarding nature and the subsoil, and in configuring the power relations part of conflicts. However, when engaging a historical and gendered perspective, it becomes clear that this role is not without ambiguities and tensions. The paper particularly urges researchers to remain critical of the reinforcements of a patriarchal system of power as well as the essentialization of indigenous cosmologies that continue to undergird present-day discourses and interactions of Catholic organizations in mining conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador is a country with several climate zones. However, their behaviour is similar throughout the year, with no peaks of extreme temperatures in the various seasons. This paper is a first approach to study the adaptive comfort behaviour in several areas and populations of the country. Considering the ASHRAE 55-2020 model, energy simulation programmes are applied not just to the current climate scenario but also to the climate change scenarios of 2050 and 2100. The results of locations are analysed and compared to determine their performance. Thanks to their climate characteristics, adaptive comfort models could be applied as a passive strategy, using natural ventilation for building indoor comfort improvement, particularly social dwellings. According to previous studies, some prototypes have not considered the climate determinants in each region. Given the geographic situation of the study areas, the adaptive comfort model could be applied in all cases. Percentages of application of natural ventilation and heating and cooling degree hours have similar behaviours according to the climatic region, with a variation greater than 30% among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, energy decarbonization due to integrating renewable energy sources presents important challenges to overcome. The intermittent nature of photovoltaic systems reduces power quality by producing voltage variations and frequency deviations in electrical system networks, especially in weak and isolated distribution systems in developing countries. This paper presents a power smoothing method for improving the low-pass filter and moving average for grid-connected photovoltaic systems. This novel method includes state-of-charge monitoring control of the supercapacitor's energy storage system to reduce the fluctuations of photovoltaic power at the point of common coupling. A case study for a microgrid in a high-altitude city in Ecuador is presented with exhaustive laboratory tests using real data. This research aims to improve energy power quality in electrical distribution systems to cope with the growth of renewable penetration. The results demonstrate significant power quality and stability improvements achieved through the proposed method. For instance, the power smoothing method effectively reduced power fluctuations by 16.7% with the low-pass filter, 14.05% with the ramp-rate filter, and 9.7% with the moving average filter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Latin America has shown increased big data adoption since 2012; Ecuador is now entering this transformative field. Science and engineering in Ecuador have benefited most from data analysis, with untapped potential in health and services sectors. Big data is shaping sectors in Ecuador, including disaster prediction, agriculture, smart city development, and electoral data analysis. Despite public sector inefficiencies, residential ICT adoption provides opportunities for Ecuador's smart city advancements. Despite some data underutilization, big data's transformative potential is evident in Ecuador's healthcare and education advancements. Data analysis is increasingly critical in aiding decision-making within public and private institutions. This paper scrutinizes the status quo of big data and data analysis and its applications within Ecuador, focusing on its societal, educational, and industrial impact. A detailed literature review was conducted from academic databases such as SpringerLink, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and ACM, incorporating research from inception until May 2023. The search process adhered to the PRISMA statement, employing specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis revealed that data implementation in Ecuador, while recent, has found noteworthy applications in six principal areas, classified using ISCED: education, science, engineering, health, social, and services. In the scientific and engineering sectors, big data has notably contributed to disaster mitigation and optimizing resource allocation in smart cities. Its application in the social sector has fortified cybersecurity and election data integrity, while in services, it has enhanced residential ICT adoption and urban planning. Health sector applications are emerging, particularly in disease prediction and patient monitoring. Educational applications predominantly involve student performance analysis and curricular evaluation. This review emphasizes that while big data's potential is being gradually realized in Ecuador, further research, data security measures, and institutional interoperability are required to fully leverage its benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines switch reference (SR) in A'ingae, an understudied isolate language from Amazonian Ecuador. We present a theoretically informed survey of SR, identifying three distinct uses of switch reference: in clause chaining, adverbial clauses, and so-called 'bridging' clause linkage. We describe the syntactic and semantic properties of each use in detail, the first such description for A'ingae, showing that the three constructions differ in important ways. While leaving a full syntactic analysis to future work, we argue that these disparate properties preclude a syntactic account that unifies these three constructions to the exclusion of other environments without SR. Conversely, while a full semantic account is also left to future work, we suggest that a unified semantic account in terms of discourse coherence principles appears more promising. In particular, we propose that switch reference in A'ingae occurs in all and only the constructions that are semantically restricted to non-structuring coordinating coherence relations in the sense of Segmented Discourse Representation Theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, digital interactions ceased to be "just another form of communication"; indeed, they became the only means of social interaction, mediated and driven by information and communication technologies (ICTs). Consequently, working in a digital context switched from being a phenomenon to be studied to the primary means of socializing and the primary workspace for researchers. This study explores four different methodologies to question how discursive interactions related to power and newsworthiness may be addressed in digital contexts. The multimodal approach was reviewed through the affordances of critical discourse analysis, issue ownership and salience, morphological discourse analysis, and protest event analysis. It starts by theoretically addressing concepts of multimodality and phenomenology by focusing on the implications of both perspectives. It examines publications and interactions in digital contexts in Ecuador from March 2017 to December 2020 within three political phenomena. The results of the analysis of these publications and interactions suggest that when analyzing political participation and newsworthiness, the virtual becomes a subjective space. Moreover, qualitative research is one of the primary ways to combine multimodality with other forms of discourse analysis. This paper concludes that perceptions, practices, and meanings assigned to social online representations can be better analyzed through multimodality, which tackles the intertwined characteristics of virtual discourses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution caused by human activities, the harmful mixture of gases (CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, PM), resulting from industrial production processes and vehicular traffic is a global environmental health problem in urban and rural areas; it affects vulnerable groups, children and older adults, affecting respiratory, cardiovascular and cancerous diseases. In Ecuador, in the city of Cuenca, among the main sources of contamination is the vehicle fleet in high-traffic areas and avenues; in addition to the industrial zone, that coexists with the city within the urban area in the northwest zone, which generates contamination to properties located around these strips. This paper presents the development of a purifying element based on the "evolutionary development" model. It begins by analyzing and studying concepts of lattices, ionization, and air purification, among others; subsequently, existing air purification systems are investigated in detail and a prototype of an ionizing lattice is generated, whose function is to filter polluted air when installed as an aesthetic part in buildings. Finally, the purification performance of gases and particles typical of the electrostatic precipitator (ESP) was tested by means of air quality stations. By means of a type of correlational applied research, the similarity between external and internal gases and particulate matter was verified, obtaining, as a result, the effective reduction of the same; decreasing by 4.15% of CO2, 30% of CO and 57% of particulate matter. With this analysis, it is concluded that the prototype of the ionization air purifying lattice can be efficient with some of the gases against particulate pollution in domestic interiors, positively influencing the health of the inhabitants of a building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and trends in cancer incidence and mortality are increasing over last years in Loja-Ecuador. Cancer treatment is expensive because of social and economic issues which force the patients to look for other alternatives. One such alternative treatment is ivermectin-based antiparasitic, which is commonly used in treating cattle. This paper analyzed ivermectin use as cancer treatment in the rural area of the Loja province and the medical opinion regarding the use of ivermectin in humans. (2) Methods: The study used a mixed methodology using different sampling techniques such as observation, surveys, and interviews. (3) Results: The main findings show that 19% of the participants diagnosed with cancer take medicines based on ivermectin as alternative therapy to the cancer control and treatment without leaving treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy, while 81% use it to treat other diseases. (4) Conclusions: Finally, we identify that the interviewed not only use IVM as anticancer treatment, but it is also used as a treatment against other diseases. Although the participants' opinions indicate that they feel improvements in their health after the third dose, the specialist considers that there is no authorization to prescribe these alternative treatments. In addition, they confirmed that currently, there is no scientific knowledge about the application of these treatments in humans and they do not recommend their application. Thus, the anticancer mechanism of ivermectin remains to be further investigated; therefore, we consider that it is important to continue with this research by proposing a new stage to evaluate and determine the pharmacological action of this type of drug through an in vitro study in different cultures of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows the technical–economic assessment of two power systems based on renewable electricity to cover the energy consumption requirements of a drinking water treatment plant in the town of Pile, Ecuador, with a planning horizon of 15 years. A stand-alone and a grid-connected solar PV system were proposed to power this plant, which was designed considering the maximum daily potable water supply condition. This plant operated under two scenarios: (1) 12 h during daylight hours and (2) 24 h. Both schedules were proposed to assess the impact of PV power systems on plant operation. We modeled and optimized a total of four scenarios, where each scenario consisted of one of the proposed PV power systems and the plant with one of its operating schedules. Homer Pro software was used to size and find an optimal solution in each scenario, considering the net present cost (NPC) as the main criterion for optimization. The results showed that the change in the plant operation schedule significantly influenced the parameters of each scenario, such as component sizing, electricity production, initial capital, NPC, and electricity purchase/sale capacity from the plant as a grid power service user to the electric utility company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish products comprise more than 20% of total Ecuadorian exports. Ecuador introduced the "National Green Export Review" (NGER) in 2015, which aims at making Ecuador's fishing industry more sustainable to improve the international market access to Ecuador's fish products. Has this policy achieved its goal? In order to answer this question, this article applies the local projection approach to explore the dynamic impact of the NGER on Ecuador's share of fish exports in the world fish market. Contrary to expectations, the results are consistent with the view that the NGER does not enhance Ecuador's competitiveness. The NGER is also not able to compensate for the fall in Ecuador's share in the world fish market, which has been induced by a change in consumer preferences for tuna and shrimp, Ecuador's main fish products. The concluding section of the paper provides policy advice on how to make the NGER more effective in achieving its goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture worldwide faces the need to reduce chemical pesticides and produce healthier food. In Latin America, research on the organic food sector primarily focuses on supply. Consumption analysis is crucial for providing information about customers' needs. This paper aims to analyze the Ecuadorian organic food sector, which is an interesting case for investigating the relationship between willingness to consume organic food and socioeconomic factors. To this end, 382 consumers were surveyed. The study applied a logit regression analysis to assess the role of socioeconomic factors in the willingness to consume organic food. Radar diagrams depict the percentage of respondents who checked a particular reason for choosing or refusing organic food. A cross-location comparison analysis was applied to identify differences between locations within the Central Ecuador region. Results reveal that Ecuadorian consumers' awareness rate of organic food is only 53.5%. Regarding organic food's price, 24% of consumers perceive it to be overly expensive. Based on strengthening the supervision of organic food production, various channels should be used to promote organic food consumption and facilitate the recognition of available organic food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods represent one of the most threatening risks for earthen architectural heritage. Developing risk assessment tools is considered crucial to mitigate the risk and to protect heritage buildings. Due to its hygroscopic nature, earthen architecture is generally considered to be vulnerable to water, requiring a specific analysis. This paper proposes a vulnerability assessment method for earthen buildings in flood-prone areas. Based on the evaluation of the susceptibility of the building's components and characteristics, the method allows for quantifying the vulnerability of the assets, in non-monetary terms. An application of the methodology is carried out assessing a selection of earthen construction in Quito Historic Centre (Ecuador). The results show the influence of each component in the global vulnerability of the earthen buildings. The response of different construction techniques and the importance of the maintenance of heritage buildings is exposed. Vulnerability assessment methods at the meso-small scale constitute the foundation for risk assessment. Thus, this study aims to provide a significant assessment tool that can be used for further analysis and future lines of research, aiming to protect cultural heritage that is at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the fundamentals; criteria; and mechanical, electrical, and electronic aspects required to properly operate and control emerging mechanical ventilators. We present the basis for their design and manufacture as a contribution to implementing this type of equipment at low cost for intensive care units. In particular, we describe the materials and the mechanical, electrical, and electronic aspects used to implement the SURKAN mechanical ventilator, which was developed in Ecuador during the COVID-19 pandemic for some health centers in the country. The proposed mechanical ventilator provides a functional and reliable design that can be considered a reference for future developments and new implementations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the main staple food of more than 50% of the world's population. However, global production may need to increase by more than 70% before 2050 to meet global food requirements despite increasing challenges due to environmental degradation, a changing climate, and extreme weather events. Rice production in Ecuador, mainly concentrated in lowland tropical plains, declined in recent years. In this paper, we aim to calibrate and validate Kobayashi's 'Very Simple Model' (VSM) and, using downscaled corrected climate data, to quantify the potential impact of climate change on rice yields for Ecuador's two main rice-growing provinces. The negative impact is expected to be highest (up to −67%; 2946 tons) under the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5, with a lower impact under RCP 2.6 (−36%; 1650 tons) yield reduction in the Guayas province. A positive impact on yield is predicted for Los Ríos Province (up to 9%; 161 tons) under RCP 8.5. These different impacts indicate the utility of fine-scale analyses using simple models to make predictions that are relevant to regional production scenarios. Our prediction of possible changes in rice productivity can help policymakers define a variety of requirements to meet the demands of a changing climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to analyze energy pathways for a fossil fuel rich developing country towards an energy transition considering national and international oil availability using Ecuador as a reference. An integrated assessment model has been developed to simulate energy transition scenarios considering constraints on oil availability at the national and global level. Results show that if current trends in energy demand and supply persist, energy scarcity would start around 2040 due to depletion of national oil reserves and restricted access to foreign oil. This would trigger a degrowth in economic activity in sectors with high dependency on petroleum products. Scenarios with conservative efforts might partially revert the increasing use of fossil fuels supported by policies for energy efficiency and substitution of liquid fuels with electricity mainly from renewables. However, energy shortages would still be foreseeable as well as a decay of the economy. Under a maximum efforts scenario with an optimistic availability of national oil, a moderate-sustained economic growth could be feasible. This shows that oil would still play a key role during the transition. Furthermore, ambitious policies must be implemented in the short term to smooth the effects of displacing oil as energy and income source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fields such as hydrology, meteorology, and civil engineering, the study of extreme precipitation events is useful to prevent rainfall related disasters. A widely-used practice to address such a problem is by using statistical inferences about precipitation intensity, duration and frequency (IDF). Despite of its great usefulness, the selection of the adequate data and methodology to characterize precipitation's IDF in the urban area of high-altitude Andean cities remains an open issue for practitioners and decision makers. In this sense, the present paper develops an approach to schematically build the IDF curves for a sub-basin of the study case Andean city, Quito–Ecuador. The here-used data holds information from 12 meteorological stations. Then, the IDF curves are obtained by using both a parametrization followed by a Gamma distribution and a 3-parameter cumulative distribution function, also called mnp. Finally, the curve-fitting process is estimated numerically by adjusting the Sherman equation. Results (average R 2 = 0.9 ) demonstrated that the framework is well-suited for the high-altitude regime. As a noticeable outcome, a novel spatial interpolation-based analysis is introduced, which enabled the identification of extreme rainfall events according to its duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador, located in the Neotropics, has 66 protected natural areas, which represent about 13.77% of its overall territory. The Reserva Ecológica Arenillas reserve (REAr), located in southwestern Ecuador, protects an area of dry forest, coastal thorn forest, and mangroves. This dry forest is part of the Pacific equatorial core and is included the Tumbes–Chocó–Magdalena, one of the 34 biodiversity hot spots of the world. It is an extremely fragile ecosystem and therefore the need for conservation is of the utmost importance. Knowledge of the flora and their ecological characteristics is still limited, which was one of the main objectives of this work. In this study, 118 plots located in different locations of the REAr were selected in order to sample the trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants within them. This information was supplemented with data from the literature and the GBIF; life forms were included according to Raunkiaer's classification and their growth habits. The flora of the REAr was represented by 381 species, belonging to 77 families. The two most numerous families were the Fabaceae (51 plant species) and Malvaceae (31 species). The dominant life form was the phanerophytes with 200 species (52.5%), followed by therophytes with 104 species (27.3%), and camephytes with 22 species (5.8%). Physiognomy was dominated by the herbaceous growth (44%). The biodiversity indices of two ecosystems were studied (The deciduous forest of the Jama-Zapotillo lowland and the low forest and deciduous shrubland of the Jama-Zapotillo lowland), obtaining higher values for the deciduous forest ecosystem of the Jama-Zapotillo lowland. With these indicators, a classification of each forest type was made by performing a hierarchical cluster analysis. The information provided in this paper is particularly important for focusing conservation efforts and preventing the loss of flora diversity in these forests, which are subject to great anthropogenic pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ecuador, various processes are applied during cocoa post-harvesting. This study, therefore, explored fermentation parameters across two locations with 2–7 independent runs, focusing on temperature, microbial counts, pH during fermentation and drying, and their impact on cocoa bean quality. Factors including fermentation devices (jute bags, plastic bags, and wooden boxes), pre-drying, turning during fermentation, fermentation duration, and drying temperature were investigated. Fermenting in plastic bags without pre-drying or turning and fermenting in jute bags for only 40 ± 2.0 h yielded low maximal fermentation temperatures Tmax (31.1 ± 0.4 °C and 37.6 ± 1.8 °C), leading to bitter, astringent, woody, and earthy cocoa liquor. Longer fermentation (63 ± 6 h) in wooden boxes with turning (Wt) and in jute bags with pre-drying and turning (Jpt) achieved the highest Tmax of 46.5 ± 2.0 °C, and a more acidic cocoa liquor, particularly in Wt (both locations) and Jpt (location E). Therefore, it is recommended to ferment for a minimum duration from day 1 to 4 (63 ± 6 h), whether using plastic bags (with mandatory pre-drying) or jute bags (with or without pre-drying or turning). Furthermore, this study underscores the risks associated with excessively high drying temperatures (up to 95.2 ± 13.7 °C) and specific dryer types, which can falsify cut-tests and introduce unwanted burnt-roasted off-flavors in the cocoa liquor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has provided ample opportunity for the implementation of intelligent agricultural production. Such technology can be used to connect various types of agricultural devices, which can collect and send data to servers for analysis. These tools can help farmers optimize the production of their crops. However, one of the main problems that arises in agricultural areas is a lack of connectivity or poor connection quality. For these reasons, in this paper, we present a method that can be used for the performance evaluation of communication systems used in IoT for agriculture, considering metrics such as the packet delivery ratio, energy consumption, and packet collisions. To achieve this aim, we carry out an analysis of the main Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWAN) protocols and their applicability, from which we conclude that those most suited to this context are Long Range (LoRa) and Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN). After that, we analyze various simulation tools and select Omnet++ together with the Framework for LoRa (FLoRa) library as the best option. In the first stage of the simulations, the performances of LoRa and LoRaWAN are evaluated by comparing the average propagation under ideal conditions against moderate propagation losses, emulating a rural environment in the coastal region of Ecuador. In the second phase, metrics such as the package delivery ratio and energy consumption are evaluated by simulating communication between an increasing number of nodes and one or two gateways. The results show that using two gateways with the Adaptive Data Rate technique can actively increase the delivery ratio of the network while consuming the same amount of energy per node. Finally, a comparison is made between the results of the simulation scenario considered in this project and those of other research works, allowing for the validation of our analytical and simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato crop is grown worldwide and is considered a mass consumer product. In Ecuador, tomato growers face two major issues: water scarcity and water mismanagement, which cause a reduction in the framers' gross income and ecosystem services. This paper is aimed at finding an optimal irrigation scheduling in greenhouse tomato crop to achieve a balance among production, fruit quality and water use efficiency. Thus, two experiments were settled. In the first experiment, four water doses (80, 100, 120 and 140% ETc) and two irrigation frequencies (one and two irrigations per day) were compared. The second experiment evaluated the two best water doses of the first one (100 and 120% ETc) and four irrigation frequencies (one and two irrigations per day, one irrigation every two days, one irrigation every three days). Each experiment monitored the variables for tomato production (plant height, stem diameter, fruits per plant, yield) and tomato quality (pH, total soluble solids, titratable acidity). The study concluded that water doses affected more than irrigation frequency to fruit quality and production. The dose of 100% ETc, applied in one irrigation per day, is suggested to obtain a balance between production, fruit quality and water use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The media convergence model presents an environment in which everyone produces information without intermediates or filters. A subsequent insight shows that users (prosumers) —gathered in networked communities—also shape messages' flow. Social media play a substantial role. This information is loaded with public values and ideologies that shape a normative world: social media has become a fundamental platform where users interact and promote public values. Memetics facilitates this phenomenon. Memes have three main characteristics: (1) Diffuse at the micro-level but shape the macrostructure of society; (2) Are based on popular culture; (3) Travel through competition and selection. In this context, this paper examineshow citizens from Ecuador and the United States reappropriate memes during a public discussion? The investigation is based on multimodal analysis and compares the most popular memes among the United States and Ecuador produced during the candidate debate (Trump vs. Biden [2020] and Lasso vs. Arauz [2021]). The findings suggest that, during a public discussion, it is common to use humor based on popular culture to question authority. Furthermore, a message becomes a meme when it evidences the gap between reality and expectations (normativity). Normativity depends on the context: Americans complain about the expectations of a debate; Ecuadorians, about discourtesy and violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific studies on silvopastoral systems have led to permanent changes oriented toward better silvopasture practices, as well as to policy strategies to respond effectively to the global objectives of restoration and sustainable development. In this work, we performed a bibliometric analysis with the purpose of identifying changes associated with different silvopastoral systems. We applied Bibliometrix in R to analyze 5708 documents published between 1983 and 2022 by including the terms "silvopastoral" and "silvopasture", among others. The results showed a longitudinal and exponential increase in silvopasture studies over the last 20 years. We adjusted the growth to an S-Curve function with an R2 of 96.06%. The interest of researchers regarding knowledge about silvopasture has evolved; initially, it focused on the characterization of silvopasture, whereas recently, it has focused on the search for strategies to improve the sustainable use of silvopasture, including ecosystem restoration and the implementation of better practices. The following countries stand out as those with the largest scientific production of studies on silvopasture: The United States, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina in the Americas; China and India in Asia; and Spain; and Germany, and the United Kingdom in Europe. In the case of Ecuador, cited leaders in silvopasture facilitated the construction of a group of experts who contribute to the development of public policies. The most cited publications appeared in journals published by the Springer group, Elsevier, and MDPI Journals, mostly in open-access systems. In the future, the disruptive contribution of open-access systems in the global dissemination of knowledge, breaking through the economic constraints of countries, universities, and researchers, should be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agroforestry has the potential to support more resilient livelihoods, soil health, and biodiversity, when compared to monocropping. In Ecuador, the Union of Cacao Peasant Organizations (UNOCACE) has been working with producers since 2016 to transition cacao plots to a dynamic agroforestry system that includes timber and fruit species as well as ground cover in addition to cacao. This study evaluates the application of this model and its implications for agricultural production, livelihoods, and soil health through producer surveys and field-based sampling. The program is resulting in significantly more timber and fruit trees on the cacao plots. Despite this, cacao production and income have not decreased in a significant way, once accounting for the number of producing trees on the plots. In addition, while additional labor is utilized on the dynamic agroforestry plots, after utilizing a matching procedure, no significant difference is seen in total crop productivity for each day of labor utilized. Over time, total productivity could increase for the dynamic agroforestry plots as the companion crops and trees mature. As the program is relatively new and has undergone some changes, additional studies are needed to understand the benefits or challenges, especially for soil health, that might be realized further in the lifespan of the program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the financial sustainability challenge of integrated watershed management (IWM) in regions with inadequate water service tariffs. A novel water service tariff model is proposed, incorporating supply costs, water loss reduction investments, and IWM expenses informed by user perceptions. The model is applied to an intermediate Andean city in southern Ecuador, where the current tariff impedes the financial viability of the water utility, reflecting a regional trend. The results indicate a necessary tariff increase exceeding 100% to cover the costs and support IWM. The economic value of watershed environmental services (WES) were estimated at USD 1,505,530.64 per year. This value translates to an average water consumption of 20 m3/user/month, equivalent to a WES of USD 2.60 per month. Despite the users' willingness to pay falling below the estimated economic value of WES, there is a clear need for implementing incentive programs to promote water conservation and policy adjustments that favor the financial sustainability of water supply companies in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the role of local media in fostering a sense of community belonging among readers in the Ecuadorian context, focusing on how geographical coverage, news sources, and covered themes reinforce community identity. Through content analysis of 17 local media outlets and 6356 news pieces, we investigate how these elements cohesively contribute to the construction of an interconnected community. The findings indicate that predominantly local and regional coverage, along with reliance on primary sources within the community and the prevalence of topics related to politics, sports, and culture, play pivotal roles in creating a shared community fabric. By contextualizing the importance of "glocalization" in journalism, the study demonstrates how local media act as a mirror to community realities and aspirations, promoting a sense of intersubjectivity, adaptability, and civic engagement. This work underscores the critical importance of local media in representing the diversity of reality, facilitating civic participation, and strengthening the social fabric within the local context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) is a unique economic model that addresses contemporary community problems by democratising the economy through activities that promote sustainability, solidarity, and collective prosperity. Research on the SSE has increased in recent years, showing its potential as an alternative to dominant economic schemes. This article aims to analyse how the SSE can contribute to sustainability in rural sector associations in Ecuador through the Participatory Action Research (PAR) method. This method empowers various stakeholders, including the community, associations, and the university, to be actively involved in designing, developing, and implementing solutions to alleviate their problems. The results show that in the context of a developing country, this active participation, interaction, and commitment can identify the various problems that the rural sector and its associations are experiencing. This situation allows for possible joint action solutions, involving people who usually do not have decision-making power or are vulnerable, by diagnosing their socio-economic conditions and establishing a training programme where knowledge production is democratic, thus combining theoretical and practical elements according to the needs detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carapa amorphocarpa W. Palacios is a forest species known solely from Cerro Golondrinas in northwestern Ecuador. The species is threatened due to illegal exploitation of its wood and the encroachment of the agricultural frontier. Although information on its ecology and forestry was presented in 2012, there is still very little information available. This study investigated the effects of various pre-germinative treatments on the seed germination and early growth of Carapa amorphocarpa in a nursery. The treatments included combinations of substrates (forest soil alone and forest soil mixed with sand), along with pre-germinative mechanical seed scarification. Through these treatments, the seeds' germination capacity, growth potential, and survival rates were evaluated in a nursery. Seed germination was found to be cryptocotylar hypogeal, commencing at 41 days and achieving an average of 83.13%. Survival of germinated seedlings was 99.23% at 60 days after germination. Furthermore, a high degree of correlation in growth was observed between basal diameter and plant height (R = 0.94). The mean values for the plants' basal diameter and total height were 0.91 cm and 50.48 cm, respectively, at 60 days. Plant form was straight with excellent health. These insights offer the potential to enhance species populations, mitigate threat risks, and in the long term, foster sustainable use of Carapa amorphocarpa genetic resources. Moreover, this seed propagation information can be leveraged for other species within the genus exploited for oil extraction from their seeds, thereby broadening knowledge and facilitating sustainable forest resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the analyses of and prediction using COVID-19-related data extracted from patient information repositories compiled by hospitals and health organizations are of paramount importance. These efforts significantly contribute to vaccine development and the formulation of contingency techniques, providing essential tools to prevent resurgence and to effectively manage the spread of the disease. In this context, the present research focuses on analyzing the biological information of the SARS-CoV-2 viral gene sequences and the clinical data of COVID-19-affected patients using publicly accessible data from Ecuador. This involves considering variables such as age, gender, and geographical location to understand the evolution of mutations and their distributions across Ecuadorian provinces. The Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) methodology is applied for data analysis. Various data preprocessing and statistical analysis techniques are employed, including Pearson correlation, the chi-square test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Statistical diagrams and charts are used to facilitate a better visualization of the results. The results illuminate the genetic diversity of the virus and its correlation with clinical variables, offering a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of COVID-19 spread in Ecuador. Critical variables influencing population vulnerability are highlighted, and the findings underscore the significance of mutation monitoring and indicate a need for global expansion of the research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of pod storage (PS) and two drying temperatures of fermented cocoa beans was investigated in Ecuador. Therefore, four variations were simultaneously carried out three times at two locations, independently: 0, 3, and 5 days of PS, dried at 60 °C and 0 days of PS, dried at 80 °C. Pod weight during storage, pulp content, pH, temperature, microbial counts, total free amino acids, protein profiles, sugars, organic acids, cut-test, fermentation index, and sensory profiles were analyzed. Minor differences in fermentation dynamics and bean quality were found between variations with and without PS. A rather accelerated fermentation with pod-stored beans was observed (e.g., faster color change, slightly lower pH in cotyledon after 48 h), along with a significantly higher maximal temperature during 24–42 h (43.1 ± 3.2 °C compared to 39.2 ± 2.0 °C without PS). More well-fermented beans were reached with PS (52.3 ± 22.6%) than without (62.7 ± 9.2%). Differences during fermentation were observed between the locations (e.g., pH, acids, sugars), but sensory evaluation indicated that the impact of location was mitigated with PS. Drying at 80 °C showed no adverse effects, as evidenced by the results of the cut-test and fermentation index. However, sensory evaluations revealed significant differences between 80 °C and 60 °C, with the former exhibiting more bitter and astringent cocoa liquor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecuador stands as a nation inheriting a profound ancestral legacy in the utilization of medicinal plants, reflective of the rich biodiversity embraced by various ethnic groups. Despite this heritage, many of these therapeutic resources remain insufficiently explored concerning their toxicity and potential pharmacological effects. This study focused on a comprehensive evaluation of cytotoxicity and the potential subcellular targets within various extracts and nine isolated metabolites from carefully selected medicinal plants. Assessing their impact on the breast cancer cell line (MCF7), we subsequently examined the most active fractions for effects on the cell cycle, microtubule network, centrosome duplication, γH2AX foci, and E-cadherin. The investigated crude extracts and isolated compounds from Ecuadorian medicinal plants demonstrated cytotoxic effects, influencing diverse cellular pathways. These findings lend credence to the traditional uses of Ecuadorian medicinal plants, which have served diverse therapeutic purposes. Moreover, they beckon the exploration of the specific chemicals, whether in isolation or combination, responsible for these observed activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on evaluating the importance of the use of renewable sources through distributed generation and its implication in the operation of electrical systems given that its incorporation has a direct impact on the expansion of the capacity of the networks, the minimization losses, and the impact on end users, all supported by the growth of demand. Under this context, the study focuses on incorporating distributed generation (DG), taking scenarios of base, medium, and peak demand and the modeling of the network, and subsequently evaluating the service quality indices and operating costs in addition to the electrical variables of the system. For this purpose, the present work proposes an optimization model to be solved using the Matlab (2021b) computational program together with GAMS (37.1.0 Major release (11 November 2021)) and mixed-integer nonlinear programming, determining the optimal insertion and determination of the maximum capacity of distributed generators while complying with the technical restrictions of the system and applying optimal AC power flows. Localizing and determining maximum capacity for distributed generation (DG) in electrical systems are critical aspects of modern grid planning and operation. With the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources and the growing complexity of energy demand patterns, efficient integration of DG has become paramount for ensuring grid reliability and sustainability. In this context, the analysis of DG localization and capacity determination considering demand scenarios emerges as a critical area of research in electrical engineering. By employing advanced optimization techniques such as mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINP), this research addresses the multidimensional challenges associated with DG deployment, including technical constraints, economic considerations, and environmental impacts. Understanding the contribution of this optimization approach to electrical engineering is fundamental for optimizing grid performance, enhancing renewable energy integration, and supporting the transition towards more resilient and sustainable energy systems. Consequently, investigating this optimization model represents a crucial step towards advancing the state-of-the-art in grid planning and facilitating the transition to a cleaner and more efficient energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Puerto de Cajas serves as a vital high-altitude passage in Ecuador, connecting the coastal region to the city of Cuenca. The stability of this rocky massif is carefully managed through the assessment of blocks and discontinuities, ensuring safe travel. This study presents a novel approach, employing rapid and cost-effective methods to evaluate an unexplored area within the protected expanse of Cajas. Using terrestrial photogrammetry and strategically positioned geomechanical stations along the slopes, we generated a detailed point cloud capturing elusive terrain features. We have used terrestrial photogrammetry for digitalization of the slope. Validation of the collected data was achieved by comparing directional data from Cloud Compare software with manual readings using a digital compass integrated in a phone at control points. The analysis encompasses three slopes, employing the SMR, Q-slope, and kinematic methodologies. Results from the SMR system closely align with kinematic analysis, indicating satisfactory slope quality. Nonetheless, continued vigilance in stability control remains imperative for ensuring road safety and preserving the site's integrity. Moreover, this research lays the groundwork for the creation of a publicly accessible 3D repository, enhancing visualization capabilities through Google Virtual Reality. This initiative not only aids in replicating the findings but also facilitates access to an augmented reality environment, thereby fostering collaborative research endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global geoparks, i.e., the members of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) network, possess highly valuable geoheritage resources, which can be used for the purposes of not only education and tourism, but also science. Five examples from four Latin American countries (Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru) were employed to realize the importance of these global geoparks as facilitators of international research. Journal articles devoted to these geoparks were selected with the major bibliographical databases, and the information from them was analyzed quantitatively. Particularly, the numbers of articles published before and after the UGGp membership, paying significant and marginal attention to geoparks, and published by international teams were calculated; the general themes of the articles were outlined. It was established that the total number of publications grew after the UGGp membership of these geoparks, but not steadily. The established dynamics of publishing are unstable and differ between the geoparks. Geoparks of Mexico (Mixteca Alta) and Peru (Colca y Volcanes de Andagua) are notable examples because they started to facilitate international research before the UGGp membership. Many articles consider geoparks only marginally (nonetheless, there are also articles paying significant attention to geoparks, especially in the cases of two Mexican geoparks). The author teams are often not restricted to Latin America. The research themes are rather diverse (geoheritage, geology, ecology, innovations, society, technology), although the majority of the publications are geoheritage-focused. Of special interest is the Colca y Volcanes de Andagua global geopark, which has been considered in the innovation-focused article. Generally, our results indicate a moderate importance of the considered global geoparks to international research activity and the incomplete exploitation of their scientific potential. Two Mexican geoparks (Comarca Minera and Mixteca Alta) seem to be the most successful in the facilitation of international research. Indeed, the scientific utility of global geoparks should be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yellow pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.) is an exotic fruit with great potential for exportation in Ecuador. The research was carried out with the objective of evaluating the fruit growth and ripening as affected by four elicitors: salicylic acid (SA), methyl salicylate (MeSa), methyl jasmonate (MeJa), and oxalic acid (OA), all of them at 1, 5, and 10 mM concentration, compared with untreated plants (control). For each elicitor, nine plants were selected, and on each plant, three fruits were marked to follow up the growth by measuring polar and equatorial diameters. At harvest, yield (kg plant−1 and number of fruits plant−1), fruit weight, percentage of pulp and skin, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and firmness were determined. Treated plants enhanced fruit size, crop yield, and fruit weight compared with control fruits, although results depended on the elicitor tested and applied doses. The highest and lowest TSS were found in 10 mM MeSa and 5 mM MeJa-treated fruit, respectively, while the highest TA content was shown in 5 mM SA. Firmness was only enhanced in MeJa-treated fruits. Overall, results suggest that preharvest use of elicitors could modulate the pitahaya ripening and could improve quality attributes at harvest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) plays a crucial role in global gold production. However, the adoption of poor mining practices or the use of mercury (Hg) in gold recovery processes has generated serious environmental contamination events. The focus of this study is assessing the concentration of Hg in surface waters within the coastal region of Ecuador. The results are used to conduct a human health risk assessment applying deterministic and probabilistic methods, specifically targeting groups vulnerable to exposure in affected mining environments. Between April and June 2022, 54 water samples were collected from rivers and streams adjacent to mining areas to determine Hg levels. In the health risk assessment, exposure routes through water ingestion and dermal contact were considered for both adults and children, following the model structures outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The results indicate elevated Hg concentrations in two of the five provinces studied, El Oro and Esmeraldas, where at least 88% and 75% of the samples, respectively, exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL) set by Ecuadorian regulations for the preservation of aquatic life. Furthermore, in El Oro province, 28% of the samples exceeded the MPL established for drinking water quality. The high concentrations of Hg could be related to illegal mining activity that uses Hg for gold recovery. Regarding the human health risk assessment, risk values above the safe exposure limit were estimated. Children were identified as the most vulnerable receptor. Therefore, there is an urgent need to establish effective regulations that guarantee the protection of river users in potentially contaminated areas. Finally, it is important to continue investigating the contamination caused by human practices in the coastal region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at the evaluation of different formulations of concrete made with calcined clays and limestone (LC3 cement) exposed to aggressive environments. The study includes the evaluation of fresh and hardened properties and a comprehensive evaluation of durability over 24 months. The inclusion of calcined clays in cement increases the specific surface area of the cements, and thus the water demand. However, the high reactivity of calcined clays compared to any other pozzolan, and the synergy that occurs with limestones, enables the use of cements with very low clinker content that achieve strengths similar to those of Portland. Comparisons of LC3 formulations with Portland cement and with concrete containing silica fume prove the superiority of calcined clays in terms of strength and durability. The best results are obtained with LC3-50 cement with 50% clinker produced through co-grinding. Results of concrete made with a blend of 70% Portland cement with 30% LC2 (60% calcined clay, 35% limestone, 5% gypsum, separate ground) are also promising. All concretes made with LC3 show good durability in terms of the results of effective porosity, chloride permeability, and resistivity tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the pollution of the Machángara River basin in Ecuador. For the assessment, water samples were pumped from the river for 1 to 4 h, with a representative water sample of 4 L collected. In the site and laboratory, the physicochemical parameters, carbamazepine (CBZ), and diclofenac (DIC) concentrations were measured using standardized analytical methods. On average, a temperature of 17.02 °C, pH of 7.06, electrical conductivity of 760.96 µS/cm, and turbidity of 83.43 NTU were found. Furthermore, the average solids content was 72.88, 495.47, and 568.35 mg/L for total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), and total solids (TS) in that order. The highest chloride concentration (Cl− = 87.97 mg/L) was below the maximum permissible limit (MPL) based on the Ecuadorian regulations for surface and underground water for human consumption and domestic use, which only require conventional treatment. In contrast, levels of nitrate (NO3− = 27.75–288.25 mg/L) and nitrite in five points (NO2− = 2.02–5.42 mg/L) were higher than the MPLs. Moreover, sulfate (SO42− = 34.75–110 mg/L) and phosphate (PO4−P = 4.15–16.58 mg/L) contents caused turbidity and eutrophication in the river water., Additionally, concentrations of copper (Cu2+ = 0.002–0.071 mg/L), zinc (Zn2+ = 0.001–0.011 mg/L) and iron (Fe3+ = 0.000–0.287 mg/L) were within the permissible limits. On the other hand, carbamazepine concentrations in the Machángara River basin were below the limit of detection (LOD) up to a value of 0.121 mg/L. At the same time, diclofenac levels ranged from 9.32 to 48.05 mg/L. The concentration discrepancy for both pharmaceuticals is linked with the trend of drug consumption by Quito's inhabitants. As measured in this investigation, meaningful amounts of CBZ and DIC are released to the Machángara River. Accordingly, the two pharmaceuticals in the river water may be dangerous for aquatic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa is known for its high nutritional value and adaptability; however, there is a lack of data about the chemical composition of quinoa produced in Ecuador, especially the Chimborazo ecotype. Our research aims to evaluate the nutritional components of Chimborazo quinoa. This knowledge (chemical composition) can help to improve cultivation and farmers' understanding. Samples were collected from 49 plots at four altitude ranges (3000–3200; 3201–3300; 3301–3400; 3401–3533) m.a.s.l. Each sample of 2 kg quinoa was cleaned, dried (32 °C/15 h), and stored at −20 °C before analyzing water activity, proximate composition, mineral content, antioxidant activity, and functional compounds. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and mean comparison, Pearson correlation, and principal component analysis. The Chimborazo ecotype shows protein content comparable to or exceeding other global quinoa cultivars. Statistical analysis revealed that altitude had a minimal influence on quinoa's chemical composition, resulting in overlapping altitude-based clusters. Complex relationships between quinoa variables were identified, which varied with altitude. These findings suggest that cultivation of high-quality quinoa across a range of altitudes is feasible without compromising its intrinsic quality. Moreover, the extensive and diverse results from our study provide a solid foundation for further plant breeding and the development of specialized quinoa varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]