Introduction: Partial or complete obliteration of root canals, because of progressive mineralization processes, constitutes a significant challenge in contemporary endodontic practice. These complex cases require a highly precise approach to minimize the risk of deviations, iatrogenic perforations, and loss of tooth structure. In this context, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies have allowed the development of guided navigation systems that optimize the planning and execution of endodontic access. Objectives: The objective of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the influence of working distance and the number of reuses on the accuracy of the bit-ring assembly used in guided endodontics procedures. The relationship between the repetition of clinical use and the angular and linear deviation in the drilling path is analyzed, to determine the functional impact of these factors on the accuracy of the assisted drilling system. Methodology: An experimental study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the drill-ring assembly in guided endodontics, considering the working distance and the number of uses. Bovine dentin discs drilled with high-speed steel drill bits (0.65 mm) at 1200 rpm and 4 N of torque, guided by 3D printed rings, were used. Deviation was measured with ImageJ® software and data was statistically analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance in GraphPad Prism 9. Results: This study analyzed the accuracy of the perforations made by a guided system, focusing on the variations recorded in the X and Y axes. On average a deviation of 0.28 mm was observed on the X axis and -0.43 mm in the Y axis, being the largest deviation detected at the height of disk number 7. To better understand the behavior of the system, a two-way ANOVA analysis was applied that evaluated the impact of the drilling depth and the number of times the instrument was reused. The results revealed no statistically significant differences, although depth explained a considerable proportion of the observed variability. In addition, when analyzing the trajectories of the boreholes, it was noted that they did not follow a constant direction, suggesting a random deviation without a clear pattern. Conclusions: Taken together, these findings indicate that neither the length of the perforation nor the reuse of the components significantly compromise the accuracy of the procedure. This reinforces the reliability of the static guides, which proved to be effective and stable, even after multiple uses and at different depths, always within the parameters evaluated in this study. General area of study: Dentistry. Specific area of study: Endodontics. Type of study: Original article.

The study reveals that human talent management in the Ecuadorian banana sector presents critical deficiencies that profoundly impact administrative productivity. At Hacienda Amanda Michelle, systemic problems were identified between organizational practices and human capital needs: selection processes prioritize urgency over competencies, generating job mismatches. Training is perceived as irrelevant and disconnected from actual duties, while compensation is considered unfair and unrelated to performance. This combination generates chronic demotivation and erosion of work commitment. Faced with this scenario, a transformative model is proposed centered on the following pillars: cultural restructuring, aligning leadership and organizational climate with a shared vision that values ​​talent; psychosocial strengthening, through group cohesion, authentic participation in decision-making, and proactive conflict resolution; and comprehensive human development, linking intrinsic motivation, professional growth paths, and incentives aligned with achievement. The proposed solution focuses on reconnecting talent management with workplace dignity and collective efficiency, transforming human resources from a cost into a strategic pillar of sustainability. Introduction.  In Ecuador, the agricultural and industrial sectors are two important components of the economy. In this regard, governments are seeking ways to prioritize exportable products based on the country's local and socioeconomic development. It is noteworthy that the aforementioned sectors are positively correlated, although their growth is uneven. Policies aimed at achieving development have been implemented in these sectors, resulting in high export production. Companies in the agricultural sector have competitive advantages, reflected in higher profit levels. Despite these advances, it is evident that most workers have low labor productivity, which indirectly affects derived production. Objective. Develop a human talent management model to improve administrative productivity at the Hacienda Amanda Michelle banana plantation in Bolívar Canton, Ecuador. Methodology.  The research involved an analysis of the theoretical foundations and a diagnosis of the current situation regarding the variables of human capital management and productivity. Exploration, description, bibliographic analysis, and modeling methods were employed. Results. The diagnosis revealed poor human talent management: selection processes that ignore competencies, training irrelevant to roles, compensation unrelated to performance, and supervision lacking effective feedback. This led to chronic demotivation, recurring operational errors, and poor resource utilization. Productivity was severely affected by this disconnect between organizational practices and human needs. As a solution, a qualitatively focused model is proposed: realigning culture with a shared vision that honors talent, strengthening group cohesion through authentic participation in decisions, and linking individual development (motivation, training) to collective achievements. Transformation requires translating these principles into concrete actions, making human talent the strategic axis for sustainable efficiency. Conclusion. The diagnosis revealed poor human talent management: selection processes that ignore competencies, training irrelevant to roles, compensation unrelated to performance, and supervision lacking effective feedback. This led to demotivation, recurring operational errors, and poor resource utilization. Productivity was severely affected by this disconnect between organizational practices and human needs. As a solution, a qualitatively focused model is proposed: realigning culture with a shared vision that honors talent, strengthening group cohesion through authentic participation in decisions, and linking individual development (motivation, training) to collective achievements. Transformation requires translating these principles into concrete actions, making human talent the strategic axis for sustainable efficiency. General Area of Study: Business Administration Specific area of study: Human Talent Management Type of study: Original articles.

Introduction: The study of arsenic presence in soils is of immense importance due to its environmental, agricultural, and health implications. Objective: This review paper is focused on information regarding the presence of arsenic in the influence zone of the Tungurahua volcano (Ecuador) due to volcanic eruptions. Method: Information was obtained from various sources such as scientific databases (Scielo, PudMEd, WEB OF SCIENCE, and Science Direct) and web browsers (Google Scholar). The structure of the review paper is the following: arsenic properties, presence of arsenic in the environment, the impact of arsenic in human health, presence of arsenic in volcanic ash, and a review of research done on arsenic in Latin America mainly in the influence zone of the Tungurahua volcano. Discussion: Recent studies conducted in Ecuador have identified notable concentrations of this metalloid, particularly in areas influenced by volcanic activity. Conclusions: Arsenic is a toxic metal that produces an impact on the environment and human health. This element is found in several oxidation states and consequently in various organic and inorganic compounds in nature. One of the main sources of arsenic is the ash from volcanoes and specifically in the influence zone of the Tungurahua volcano arsenic has been found in water, soil, raw milk and several agricultural products (potatoes- Solanum tuberosum, carrots - Daucus carota, corn - Zea mays) which implies the need of additional studies in the area. General area of study: agriculture Specific area of study: sustainable management of natural resources Type of article: systematic bibliographic review.

Introduction. Breastfeeding is vital for the comprehensive health of both the newborn and the mother. Despite its well-known benefits, implementation faces challenges in intercultural settings, where social, ethnic, and cultural factors play a significant role. In regions such as Chimborazo, Ecuador, a disconnect persists between the formal healthcare system and Indigenous ancestral knowledge, limiting the effectiveness of promotion strategies. Adopting an intercultural approach in maternal and child healthcare is crucial to respecting traditional practices, improving exclusive breastfeeding indicators, and empowering mothers within their cultural contexts. Objective. To identify the characterization of breastfeeding from an intercultural perspective aimed at empowering pregnant and nursing mothers in the province of Chimborazo. Methodology. The study employed an observational, descriptive, and non-experimental methodology based on a documentary review. It focused on characterizing breastfeeding from an intercultural perspective, exploring perceptions, beliefs, traditions, knowledge, attitudes, and practices among pregnant and breastfeeding women from various ethnic groups in Chimborazo. The study also identified health education processes and culturally appropriate interventions aimed at promoting women's empowerment in breastfeeding. Scientific literature was reviewed using national and international health databases and indexed medical journals. Inclusion criteria considered publications from 2020 onward, with no language restrictions; documents with restricted access or irrelevant data were excluded. Out of an initial 73 results, 45 were selected after applying the criteria, and finally, 22 high-quality and thematically relevant articles were analyzed based on their SJR index. Results. The intercultural approach to breastfeeding helped identify beliefs, traditions, knowledge, and attitudes among diverse ethnic groups in Chimborazo. Additionally, health education processes and culturally adapted interventions were observed to promote maternal empowerment, increasing adherence to exclusive breastfeeding practices. Conclusion. Breastfeeding in intercultural contexts such as Chimborazo is deeply rooted in local cosmovision’s and traditions. These factors influence acceptance of practices, understanding of myths, and openness to dialogue with the healthcare system. Incorporating a respectful and inclusive approach is key to developing effective community programs, building maternal support networks, and coordinating efforts with local leaders. Only through the active and conscious participation of mothers can we move toward a truly equitable healthcare model that recognizes cultural diversity as a resource for the holistic development of both mother and child. This approach also enhances the delivery of relevant health education to women affected by sociocultural, linguistic, and structural barriers. General Area of Study: Nursing. Specific area of study: Public health. Type of study: Original article.

Introduction: Currently, the inclusion of students with physical disabilities is considered one of the most relevant challenges in the educational field. In this scenario, students with physical disabilities often face structural, pedagogical, and attitudinal barriers that limit their participation. Objectives: The objective of the research is to create a program of inclusive body expression activities that promotes the active and meaningful participation of students with physical disabilities in Physical Education classes. Methodology: the methodology is a descriptive, cross-sectional, and field study of mixed approach, the observation and survey technique were applied, the sample is 24 students of the fifth year, one of them with moderate physical disability. Results: The survey determined that teachers do not have a level of knowledge regarding the way in which activities adapted for the inclusion of students with physical disabilities should be developed, the observation sheet determines that there is no inclusion of students. Conclusions: A program of adapted body expression activities was generated, which is validated by specialists for its application. General area of study: Physical Education. Specific area of study: Inclusive education. Item Type: Original.

Abstract
Introduction. The article examines the use of restorative circles as a tool of restorative justice for resolving family conflicts, it emphasizes the focus on damage repair, active participation, and rebuilding bonds. Furthermore, it analyzes their application in the Ecuadorian context, it has a comparison with mediation, highlighting its application on vulnerable groups like minors and the elderly. In the family sphere, conflicts can cause profound ruptures in personal relationships, in response, restorative circles emerge as a valuable alternative that, through dialogue, in collaboration of the conflicting parties, promotes redress for the harm caused. Objective. To analyze the effectiveness of restorative circles as a tool for resolving family conflicts, evaluating the theoretical framework and practical application in Ecuador, to highlight their benefits. Methodology. A narrative, theoretical, exploratory, and documentary literature review was conducted. Academic sources from 1998 to 2025 in Spanish and English on restorative justice and family conflicts were reviewed utilizing qualitative content analysis and critical comparison; no ethical authorizations required due to the absence of human subjects. Results. In Ecuador, restorative circles show potential for resolving family conflicts with 851 mediation agreements recorded in Azuay (2023). However, the lack of specific legislation and documentation limits their implementation, though juvenile justice regulations provide a foundation for expansion. Conclusion. Restorative circles are a valuable tool for promoting dialogue and repair in family conflicts. Effective implementation requires awareness, professional training, and a clear legal framework to ensure equity and respect for human rights. General study area: Social Sciences. Specific study area: Family Law and Restorative Justice. Type of study: Narrative literature review.

Introduction. The inclusion of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in physical education classes presents significant pedagogical challenges, particularly in areas such as social interaction, emotional regulation, and functional participation. Limitations in motor skills, heightened sensory sensitivity, and communication difficulties necessitate specific adaptations in both the planning and execution of instructional activities. Objective. To validate a teaching proposal based on motor challenges adapted for the inclusion of students with ASD in physical education classes. Methodology. A mixed-methods design with a descriptive-explanatory approach was employed. The sample consisted of 22 upper elementary students, including two with a formal diagnosis of ASD. Data collection involved structured observational instruments using a Likert scale, semi-structured interviews with teachers, family members, and specialists, as well as participatory classroom observations. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, and the reliability of the instrument was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha (0.89). Results. Initial diagnostic findings revealed a significant gap: while most students exhibited elevated levels of perceived inclusion, those with ASD scored consistently lower in social interaction, adaptability, and participation in modified activities. The implemented intervention—an eight-week program of structured, adapted motor challenges—led to notable improvements in instruction comprehension, emotional self-regulation, and willingness to interact, as evidenced in the qualitative validation phase. Conclusion. Effective inclusion in physical education requires pedagogical approaches that are both structured and responsive to neurodevelopmental diversity. The developed program proved to be relevant, feasible, and replicable, fostering not only participation but also the well-being and social integration of students with ASD. General Area of Study: Education. Specific area of study: Physical Education. Type of study: Original articles.

Introduction: Vocational guidance is a systematic and technical process of accompaniment aimed at people in training, with the purpose of promoting vocational behaviors that facilitate their transition to adult life. This intervention, based on principles of prevention, development, and social inclusion, requires the active participation of educational agents and socio-professionals. Worldwide, it is recognized as a key tool within the educational system, since it promotes informed vocational decisions, adjusted to the demands of the work environment and the integral development of the individual, especially in stages such as higher basic education, when adolescents begin to build their identity and project their future. Objective: Develop a vocational orientation program for students of higher basic education that encourages interest in the Technical Baccalaureate in Agricultural Production. Methodology: The research was developed under a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative) of descriptive type and correlational scope, using field methodologies and bibliographic review. A non-experimental design was applied, observing the phenomenon in its natural context without manipulating variables, with the aim of analyzing the interest and needs of vocational guidance of students from high school to the Agricultural Technical Baccalaureate. The population was made up of 245 students from the Mocache Educational Unit, from which a non-probabilistic intentional sample of 35 students was selected. Data collection was conducted through a dichotomous questionnaire of 14 questions (Yes/No) developed in Google Forms, whose validity was ensured through the judgment of experts in vocational guidance and technical education. The results allowed characterize profiles and interests of the students, providing useful information to design intervention strategies. Results: The results of the study reveal a limited vocational orientation towards the Technical Baccalaureate in Agricultural Production, despite the latent interest of students in agricultural and rural issues. Although many value this modality positively for its work and educational opportunities, more than 60% have not received information or talk about it, which makes it difficult to make an informed decision. There is evidence of a strong affinity with content related to agriculture, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, but there is a lack of knowledge about the structure and advantages of the baccalaureate. In addition, although the majority recognize the value of technical practices, only a part has actively participated in them, reflecting poor institutional implementation. Finally, 94.3% of those surveyed consider it necessary to have clear vocational guidance prior to choosing their specialty, which indicates the urgency of strengthening these processes to align student interests with the opportunities of the agricultural sector. Conclusion: The conclusion of the article highlights that the low level of knowledge of the Agricultural Technical Baccalaureate students shows the need to strengthen rural vocational guidance. Based on this diagnosis, a contextualized proposal was designed composed of six units that integrate informative, motivational and community content, with the aim of promoting this educational modality. It is recommended to institutionalize the program within the POA and the PEI to ensure its sustainability, as well as to implement practical pedagogical strategies that favor an informed vocational choice. In addition, it is suggested to establish continuous evaluation mechanisms that allow measuring their impact on student enrollment, participation, and vocational clarity. General Area of Study: Education. Specific area of study: Vocational guidance in basic education. Type of study: Original articles.

Introduction: Potato (Solanum tuberosum) farming is one of the pillars of food security and a key source of income for many families in rural areas of Ecuador, particularly in the province of Cotopaxi. However, this activity faces serious threats, such as the white worm (Premnotrypes vorax), a pest that can cause damage of up to 87.2% in some regions. This insect primarily attacks tubers during its larval stage, leading to economic losses ranging between 20% and 50%. Currently, both chemical and biological insecticides are used to combat it, but their indiscriminate application can cause adverse effects, such as pest resistance and environmental harm. Therefore, there is an urgent need to seek more sustainable solutions that combine different management tools. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of two insecticides Beauveria bassiana (an entomopathogenic fungus) and a chemical mixture of Thiamethoxam + Fipronil combined with three types of traps (INIA, pitfall, and bucket traps) to monitor and control the white worm in potato crops in the community of Cuturiví Chico, Cotopaxi. Methodology: An experiment was conducted using a 3x2 factorial design under a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), which included 36 treatments distributed across three blocks. The traps were placed in plots of 40 plants and checked weekly. To analyze the results, ANOVA and Tukey's test were used at a 5% significance level, considering different crop growth stages: vegetative development, flowering, and maturation. Results: During the crop development stage, the Beauveria bassiana insecticide showed significant efficacy (p = 0.0245), while the traps did not present statistically relevant differences. In the flowering and maturation stages, no treatment showed significant effects, and high coefficients of variation were observed (23.19% and 35.07%, respectively), suggesting that uncontrolled environmental factors may have influenced the results. Conclusions: Among the monitoring methods, bucket traps were the most effective. Regarding white worm control, Beauveria bassiana emerges as a promising option within a biological management approach. However, the efficacy of the treatments varied depending on the crop's phenological stage, highlighting the importance of implementing integrated management strategies tailored to the specific conditions of the area. General area of study: Agronomy. Specific area of study: Plant Health. Type of article: original