bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Gait Characteristics in Patients with COPD
Authors: Liu Wai-Yan , Meijer Kenneth , Delbressine Jeannet M. , Willems Paul J. , Wouters Emiel F. M. , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: April 2019

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves lower-limb muscle function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, it remains unclear whether patients improve gait characteristics, in particular stride-to-stride fluctuations that are associated with fall risks. This study aims to identify whether, and to what extent, PR affects positively gait characteristics in COPD. In this prospective observational study, 44 COPD patients (aged: 62 ± 7 years; Forced expiratory volume in 1 s 56 ± 20% predicted) performed self-paced, treadmill 6-min-walk tests (Gait Real-time Analysis Interactive Lab) before and after PR, while spatiotemporal parameters and center of mass position were recorded (100 Hz, Vicon Nexus). Standard deviation, coefficient of variation, predictability (sample entropy), and consistency in organization (local divergence exponent) were calculated. Sub-analysis was performed to identify gait differences between good and poor responders (<30 m change in a 6-min-walk distance). Patients demonstrated shorter stride times (p = 0.001) and improved lower-limb muscle function (p < 0.001) following PR. The good responders had a greater increase in stride length (p < 0.001) and a greater decrease in stride time (p < 0.001) compared to the poor responders. Current PR improved stride time in patients, while movement patterns within stride-to-stride fluctuations did not change. Training programs specifically targeting balance issues and gait function may be beneficial in improving gait characteristics in COPD.
Clinicopathological and Genetic Profiles of Cases with Myocyte Disarray—Investigation for Establishing the Autopsy Diagnostic Criteria for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hata Yukiko , Ichimata Shojiro , Yamaguchi Yoshiaki , Hirono Keiichi , Oku Yuko , Ichida Fukiko , Nishida Naoki
Published: April 2019

Myocyte disarray of >10% in the heart is broadly accepted as a diagnostic pitfall for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) at postmortem. The present study aims to propose an additional diagnostic criterion of HCM. Heart specimens from 1387 serial forensic autopsy cases were examined. Cases with myocyte disarray were extracted and applied to morphometric analysis to determine the amount of myocyte disarray. Comprehensive genetic analysis by using next-generation sequencing was subsequently applied for cases with myocyte disarray. Fifteen cases with myocyte disarray were extracted as candidate cases (1.1%, 11 men and 4 women, aged 48–94 years). In terms of the cause of death, only 2 cases were cardiac or possible cardiac death, and the other was non-cardiac death. Six cases showed myocyte disarray of >10% and 3 cases showed myocyte disarray of 5% to 10%. The other 6 cases showed myocyte disarray of <5%. Nine rare variants in 5 HCM-related genes (MYBPC3, MYH7, MYH6, PRKAG2, and CAV3) were found in 8 of 9 cases with myocyte disarray of >5%. The remaining 1 and 6 cases with myocyte disarray of <5% did not have any such variant. Myocyte disarray of >5% with rare variants in related genes might be an appropriate postmortem diagnostic criterion for HCM, in addition to myocyte disarray of 10%.
Effects of Isosorbide Incorporation into Flexible Polyurethane Foams: Reversible Urethane Linkages and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Shin Se-Ra , Liang Jing-Yu , Ryu Hoon , Song Gwang-Seok , Lee Dai-Soo
Published: April 2019

Isosorbide (ISB), a nontoxic bio-based bicyclic diol composed from two fuzed furans, was incorporated into the preparation of flexible polyurethane foams (FPUFs) for use as a cell opener and to impart antioxidant properties to the resulting foam. A novel method for cell opening was designed based on the anticipated reversibility of the urethane linkages formed by ISB with isocyanate. FPUFs containing various amounts of ISB (up to 5 wt%) were successfully prepared without any noticeable deterioration in the appearance and physical properties of the resulting foams. The air permeability of these resulting FPUFs was increased and this could be further improved by thermal treatment at 160 °C. The urethane units based on ISB enabled cell window opening, as anticipated, through the reversible urethane linkage. The ISB-containing FPUFs also demonstrated better antioxidant activity by impeding discoloration. Thus, ISB, a nontoxic, bio-based diol, can be a valuable raw material (or additive) for eco-friendly FPUFs without seriously compromising the physical properties of these FPUFs.
Eutectic Phenomenon of LiNH2-KH Composite in MH-NH3 Hydrogen Storage System
Authors: Goshome Kiyotaka , Jain Ankur , Miyaoka Hiroki , Yamamoto Hikaru , Kojima Yoshitsugu , Ichikawa Takayuki
Published: April 2019

Hydrogenation of a lithium-potassium (double-cation) amide (LiK(NH2)2), which is generated as a product by ammonolysis of litium hydride and potassium hydride (LiH-KH) composite, is investigated in details. As a result, lithium amide (LiNH2) and KH are generated after hydrogenation at 160 °C as an intermediate. It is noteworthy that the mixture of LiH and KNH2 has a much lower melting point than that of the individual melting points of LiNH2 and KH, which is recognized as a eutectic phenomenon. The hydrogenation temperature of LiNH2 in the mixture is found to be significantly lower than that of LiNH2 itself. This improvement of reactivity must be due to kinetic modification, induced by the enhanced atomic mobility due to the eutectic interaction.
Analysis of the Thermal Storage Performance of a Radiant Floor Heating System with a PCM
Authors: Park JinChul , Kim TaeWon
Published: April 2019

This study first reviewed previous studies on floor heating systems based on the installation of a phase change material (PCM) and the current status of technical developments and found that PCM-based research is still in its infancy. In particular, the improvement of floor heat storage performance in indoor environments by combining a PCM with existing floor structures has not been subject to previous research. Thus, a PCM-based radiant floor heating system that utilizes hot water as a heat source and can be used in conjunction with the widespread wet construction method can be considered novel. This study found the most suitable PCM melting temperature for the proposed PCM-based radiant floor heating system ranged from approximately 35 °C to 45 °C for a floor thickness of 70 mm and a PCM thickness of 10 mm. Mock-up test results, which aimed to assess the performance of the radiant floor heating system with and without the PCM, revealed that the PCM-based room was able to maintain a temperature that was 0.2 °C higher than that of the room without the PCM. This was due to the rise in temperature caused by the PCM’s heat storage capacity and the emission of waste heat that was otherwise lost to the underside of the hot water pipe when the PCM was not present.
Lactobacillus fermentum PC1 has the Capacity to Attenuate Joint Inflammation in Collagen-Induced Arthritis in DBA/1 Mice
Authors: Esvaran Meera , Conway Patricia L.
Published: April 2019

Lactobacillus strains have shown efficacy in attenuating inflammation. This study evaluated the potential of Lactobacillus fermentum PC1 for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a murine model of collagen-induced arthritis. On Day 1, healthy DBA/1 mice (six to eight weeks of age) were immunized, with 100 μg of Chicken Type 11 collagen emulsified in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) by intradermal injection, at the base of the tail. On Day 21, the mice were immunized intraperitoneally with 100 μg of Bovine Type11 collagen in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). On Day 28, the mice were immunized intraperitoneally with 50 μg of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Viable L. fermentum PC1 (1 × 109 colony forming units) was given daily from Day two until the end of the experiment. From Day 21 onwards, the mice were monitored daily for clinical signs of arthritis. On Day 44, the experiment was terminated. Paws were obtained for histology and serum for cytokine assays. L. fermentum PC1-fed mice had significantly reduced paw inflammation as well as decreased synovial infiltration and less cartilage damage. Circulating serum cytokine profiles revealed decreased IL-12 and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines, namely IL-4 and IL-10. Thus, early administration of L. fermentum PC1 could prove to be a valuable therapeutic agent in the management of RA.
Short-Term Dietary Intervention with Cooked but Not Raw Brassica Leafy Vegetables Increases Telomerase Activity in CD8+ Lymphocytes in a Randomized Human Trial
Authors: Tran Hoai , Schlotz Nina , Schreiner Monika , Lamy Evelyn
Published: April 2019

Telomerase in T lymphocytes is dynamic and limited evidence from epidemiological studies indicates that the enzyme can be modulated in peripheral lymphocytes by dietary and lifestyle factors. The differential effect of dietary intervention on T cell subsets has not been investigated so far. Brassica vegetables are known for their multiple beneficial effects on human health, and here, the effect of a five-day short-term intervention with raw or cooked leaves of Brassica carinata on telomerase activity in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from 22 healthy volunteers was investigated in a randomized single-blind, controlled crossover study. Blood samples were collected before and after intervention, and CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocytes were isolated. Telomerase activity was quantified using the TRAP-ELISA assay. Intervention with both preparations led to a marginal increase in telomerase activity of CD4+ cells compared to the baseline level. In CD8+ cells, a significant increase in telomerase activity (25%, p < 0.05) was seen after intervention with the cooked material. An increase in telomerase activity in CD8+ cells of healthy volunteers could be regarded as beneficial in terms of helping with the cell-mediated immune response. Whether a Brassica intervention has long-term effects on telomere extension in specific T cell subsets needs to be determined.
2018 FDA Tides Harvest
Authors: Al Shaer Danah , Al Musaimi Othman , Albericio Fernando , de la Torre Beatriz G.
Published: April 2019

In 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a total of 59 new drugs, three of them (5%) are TIDES (or also, -tides), two oligonucleotides and one peptide. Herein, the three TIDES approved are analyzed in terms of medical target, mode of action, chemical structure, and economics.
Predictive Modeling of Future Forest Cover Change Patterns in Southern Belize
Authors: Voight Carly , Hernandez-Aguilar Karla , Garcia Christina , Gutierrez Said
Published: April 2019

Tropical forests and the biodiversity they contain are declining at an alarming rate throughout the world. Although southern Belize is generally recognized as a highly forested landscape, it is becoming increasingly threatened by unsustainable agricultural practices. Deforestation data allow forest managers to efficiently allocate resources and inform decisions for proper conservation and management. This study utilized satellite imagery to analyze recent forest cover and deforestation in southern Belize to model vulnerability and identify the areas that are the most susceptible to future forest loss. A forest cover change analysis was conducted in Google Earth Engine using a supervised classification of Landsat 8 imagery with ground-truthed land cover points as training data. A multi-layer perceptron neural network model was performed to predict the potential spatial patterns and magnitude of forest loss based on the regional drivers of deforestation. The assessment indicates that the agricultural frontier will continue to expand into recently untouched forests, predicting a decrease from 75.0% mature forest cover in 2016 to 71.9% in 2026. This study represents the most up-to-date assessment of forest cover and the first vulnerability and prediction assessment in southern Belize with immediate applications in conservation planning, monitoring, and management.
Mapping Irrigated Areas of Northeast China in Comparison to Natural Vegetation
Authors: Xiang Kunlun , Ma Minna , Liu Wei , Dong Jie , Zhu Xiufang , Yuan Wenping
Published: April 2019

Accurate information about the location and extent of irrigation is fundamental to many aspects of food security and water resource management. This study develops a new method for identifying irrigation in northeastern China by comparing canopy moisture between the cropland and adjacent natural ecosystems (i.e., forests). This method is based on two basic assumptions, which we validated using field survey data. First, the canopy moisture of irrigated cropland, indicated by a satellite-based land surface water index (LSWI), is higher than that of the adjacent forest. Second, the difference in LSWI between irrigation cropland and forest is larger in arid regions than in humid regions. Based on the field survey and statistical dataset, our method performed well in indicating spatial variations of irrigated areas. Results from this study suggest that our method is a promising tool for mapping irrigated areas, as it is a general and repeatable method that does not rely on training samples and can be applied to other regions.
A Smart Context-Aware Hazard Attention System to Help People with Peripheral Vision Loss
Authors: Younis Ola , Al-Nuaimy Waleed , Rowe Fiona , Alomari Mohammad H.
Published: April 2019

Peripheral vision loss results in the inability to detect objects in the peripheral visual field which affects the ability to evaluate and avoid potential hazards. A different number of assistive navigation systems have been developed to help people with vision impairments using wearable and portable devices. Most of these systems are designed to search for obstacles and provide safe navigation paths for visually impaired people without any prioritisation of the degree of danger for each hazard. This paper presents a new context-aware hybrid (indoor/outdoor) hazard classification assistive technology to help people with peripheral vision loss in their navigation using computer-enabled smart glasses equipped with a wide-angle camera. Our proposed system augments users’ existing healthy vision with suitable, meaningful and smart notifications to attract the user’s attention to possible obstructions or hazards in their peripheral field of view. A deep learning object detector is implemented to recognise static and moving objects in real time. After detecting the objects, a Kalman Filter multi-object tracker is used to track these objects over time to determine the motion model. For each tracked object, its motion model represents its way of moving around the user. Motion features are extracted while the object is still in the user’s field of vision. These features are then used to quantify the danger using five predefined hazard classes using a neural network-based classifier. The classification performance is tested on both publicly available and private datasets and the system shows promising results with up to 90% True Positive Rate (TPR) associated with as low as 7% False Positive Rate (FPR), 13% False Negative Rate (FNR) and an average testing Mean Square Error (MSE) of 8.8%. The provided hazard type is then translated into a smart notification to increase the user’s cognitive perception using the healthy vision within the visual field. A participant study was conducted with a group of patients with different visual field defects to explore their feedback about the proposed system and the notification generation stage. The real-world outdoor evaluation of human subjects is planned to be performed in our near future work.
A Feature Extraction Method Based on Differential Entropy and Linear Discriminant Analysis for Emotion Recognition
Authors: Chen Dong-Wei , Miao Rui , Yang Wei-Qi , Liang Yong , Chen Hao-Heng , Huang Lan , Deng Chun-Jian , Han Na
Published: April 2019

Feature extraction of electroencephalography (EEG) signals plays a significant role in the wearable computing field. Due to the practical applications of EEG emotion calculation, researchers often use edge calculation to reduce data transmission times, however, as EEG involves a large amount of data, determining how to effectively extract features and reduce the amount of calculation is still the focus of abundant research. Researchers have proposed many EEG feature extraction methods. However, these methods have problems such as high time complexity and insufficient precision. The main purpose of this paper is to introduce an innovative method for obtaining reliable distinguishing features from EEG signals. This feature extraction method combines differential entropy with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) that can be applied in feature extraction of emotional EEG signals. We use a three-category sentiment EEG dataset to conduct experiments. The experimental results show that the proposed feature extraction method can significantly improve the performance of the EEG classification: Compared with the result of the original dataset, the average accuracy increases by 68%, which is 7% higher than the result obtained when only using differential entropy in feature extraction. The total execution time shows that the proposed method has a lower time complexity.
Identification and Evaluation of Landscape as a Precondition for Planning Revitalization and Development of Mediterranean Rural Settlements—Case Study: Mrkovi Village, Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Authors: Čurović Željka , Čurović Milić , Spalević Velibor , Janic Milorad , Sestras Paul , Popović Svetislav G.
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a case study of the village of Mrkovi in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, showing the importance of landscape identification and assessment in planning the revitalization and development of Mediterranean rural settlements. The research revealed the methods of identification and evaluation of different landscape types. Moreover, it showed how such an approach could considerably contribute to the preservation of the space’s identity and quality by taking into account the existing characteristics of the space or the relationship between cultural and natural heritage. The identification of the landscape types was followed by the evaluation of individual elements and assessment of vulnerability in relation to the space’s natural, cultural, and visual quality. The first step in the process of preserving the elements that contribute to the landscape’s identity was the spatial identification of the cultural pattern of traditional terraces with drystone walls. The results of analysis indicate a high risk of degradation of the basic landscape value. The effects of future interventions in the space, especially the planned construction of a tourist resort, can be mitigated if they comply with the guidelines related to the rational use of the space and delimitation of the construction zones. This paper points out the importance of a responsible attitude and planned approach regarding the cultural and natural landscape of Mediterranean rural settlements.
Prioritizing Green Spaces for Biodiversity Conservation in Beijing Based on Habitat Network Connectivity
Authors: Lv Zhiyuan , Yang Jun , Wielstra Ben , Wei Jie , Xu Fei , Si Yali
Published: April 2019

Rapid urbanization results in changes in land use, biogeochemical cycles, climate, hydrosystems, and biodiversity. Policy-makers have formulated ecological protection measures to facilitate sustainable development. However, traditional conservation planning mainly focuses on protecting specific green spaces, with limited consideration of the connectivity among green spaces from a habitat network perspective. Using citizen science data and occupancy modelling, we predicted habitat suitability, built habitat networks and identified key habitat patches based on their contribution to the functional connectivity of the habitat network for three focal water, forest, and open-habitat bird species. Based on the habitat requirement, small waterbodies and intermediate forest and open-habitat cover facilitate preserving water, forest and open-habitat birds. In regards to the network analysis, we found that key habitat patches with a high conservation priority were generally characterized by a relatively large patch size and/or located at critical positions in the habitat network (at central positions in the habitat network, or near large patches). We suggest that key habitat patches in restricted built-up areas are converted to protected areas or are kept as cropland under future urban planning. We emphasize the usefulness of the focal species concept in urban biodiversity conservation. Our study offers conservation recommendations from a habitat network perspective for urban planners to safeguard urban biodiversity and ecosystem health.
An Automated Training of Deep Learning Networks by 3D Virtual Models for Object Recognition
Authors: Židek Kamil , Lazorík Peter , Piteľ Ján , Hošovský Alexander
Published: April 2019

Small series production with a high level of variability is not suitable for full automation. So, a manual assembly process must be used, which can be improved by cooperative robots and assisted by augmented reality devices. The assisted assembly process needs reliable object recognition implementation. Currently used technologies with markers do not work reliably with objects without distinctive texture, for example, screws, nuts, and washers (single colored parts). The methodology presented in the paper introduces a new approach to object detection using deep learning networks trained remotely by 3D virtual models. Remote web application generates training input datasets from virtual 3D models. This new approach was evaluated by two different neural network models (Faster RCNN Inception v2 with SSD, MobileNet V2 with SSD). The main advantage of this approach is the very fast preparation of the 2D sample training dataset from virtual 3D models. The whole process can run in Cloud. The experiments were conducted with standard parts (nuts, screws, washers) and the recognition precision achieved was comparable with training by real samples. The learned models were tested by two different embedded devices with an Android operating system: Virtual Reality (VR) glasses, Cardboard (Samsung S7), and Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses (Epson Moverio M350). The recognition processing delays of the learned models running in embedded devices based on an ARM processor and standard x86 processing unit were also tested for performance comparison.
Canine Respiratory Coronavirus, Bovine Coronavirus, and Human Coronavirus OC43: Receptors and Attachment Factors
Authors: Szczepanski Artur , Owczarek Katarzyna , Bzowska Monika , Gula Katarzyna , Drebot Inga , Ochman Marek , Maksym Beata , Rajfur Zenon , Mitchell Judy A , Pyrc Krzysztof
Published: April 2019

Despite high similarity of canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV), bovine coronavirus, (BCoV) and human coronavirus OC43 (HCoV-OC43), these viruses differ in species specificity. For years it was believed that they share receptor specificity, utilizing sialic acids for cell surface attachment, internalization, and entry. Interestingly, careful literature analysis shows that viruses indeed bind to the cell surface via sialic acids, but there is no solid data that these moieties mediate virus entry. In our study, using a number of techniques, we showed that all three viruses are indeed able to bind to sialic acids to a different extent, but these molecules render the cells permissive only for the clinical strain of HCoV-OC43, while for others they serve only as attachment receptors. CRCoV and BCoV appear to employ human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-1) as the entry receptor. Furthermore, we identified heparan sulfate as an alternative attachment factor, but this may be related to the cell culture adaptation, as in ex vivo conditions, it does not seem to play a significant role. Summarizing, we delineated early events during CRCoV, BCoV, and HCoV-OC43 entry and systematically studied the attachment and entry receptor utilized by these viruses.
Statistical Analysis of Extreme Events in Precipitation, Stream Discharge, and Groundwater Head Fluctuation: Distribution, Memory, and Correlation
Authors: Dawley Shawn , Zhang Yong , Liu Xiaoting , Jiang Peng , Tick Geoffrey R. , Sun HongGuang , Zheng Chunmiao , Chen Li
Published: April 2019

Hydrological extremes in the water cycle can significantly affect surface water engineering design, and represents the high-impact response of surface water and groundwater systems to climate change. Statistical analysis of these extreme events provides a convenient way to interpret the nature of, and interaction between, components of the water cycle. This study applies three probability density functions (PDFs), Gumbel, stable, and stretched Gaussian distributions, to capture the distribution of extremes and the full-time series of storm properties (storm duration, intensity, total precipitation, and inter-storm period), stream discharge, lake stage, and groundwater head values observed in the Lake Tuscaloosa watershed, Alabama, USA. To quantify the potentially non-stationary statistics of hydrological extremes, the time-scale local Hurst exponent (TSLHE) was also calculated for the time series data recording both the surface and subsurface hydrological processes. First, results showed that storm duration was most closely related to groundwater recharge compared to the other storm properties, while intensity also had a close relationship with recharge. These relationships were likely due to the effects of oversaturation and overland flow in extreme total precipitation storms. Second, the surface water and groundwater series were persistent according to the TSLHE values, because they were relatively slow evolving systems, while storm properties were anti-persistent since they were rapidly evolving in time. Third, the stretched Gaussian distribution was the most effective PDF to capture the distribution of surface and subsurface hydrological extremes, since this distribution can capture the broad transition from a Gaussian distribution to a power-law one.
Gestión administrativa y su incidencia en la sostenibilidad financiera de la Pymes sector manufactureo de Manabí
Authors: Solis Cedeño Víctor Javier , Hidalgo Ángulo Heidi María
Published: April 2019

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo, determinar en qué medida la gestión administrativa incide en la sostenibilidad financiera de las pymes formales del sector manufacturero de la provincia de Manabí. Este trabajo busca conocer los factores causales que explican el problema, estableciendo un diseño transeccional – correlacional. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó como herramienta la encuesta tipo escala de LIKERT, probado con una fiabilidad Alfa de Cronbach de 0,834 para los 18 elementos, con esta alta fiabilidad, se aplicó a 123 empresas pymes formales del sector manufacturero. Se consideró dos variables de estudio: la gestión administrativa como variable independiente y la sostenibilidad financiera como variable dependiente. El resultado final invidencia que La gestión administrativa NO influye en la sostenibilidad financiera de las PYMES formales del sector manufacturero de la provincia de Manabí-Ecuador.

 

Palabras clave: administración, gerencia, competencia, organización, empresas

 

ABSTRACT

 

The objective of this research is to determine to what extent administrative management affects the financial sustainability of formal SMEs in the manufacturing sector of the province of Manabí. This work seeks to know the causal factors that explain the problem, establishing a transectional - correlational design. For the statistical analysis, the LIKERT scale survey was used as a tool, tested with a Cronbach’s alpha reliability of 0.834 for the 18 elements. With this high reliability, it was applied to 123 formal SMEs in the manufacturing sector. Two study variables were considered: administrative management as an independent variable and financial sustainability as a dependent variable. The final result that administrative management DOES NOT influence the financial sustainability of formal SMEs in the manufacturing sector of the province of Manabí-Ecuador.

 

Key words: administration, management, competition, organization, companies.
Propuesta de un plan de acciones para la mejora del Clima organizacional en la comercializadora mayorista ITH Varadero
Authors: Miranda Lorenzo Yadney
Published: April 2019

El presente trabajo se lleva a cabo en la comercializadora mayorista ITH Varadero. Tiene como objetivo proponer un plan de acciones para la mejora del clima organizacional de la entidad. Los métodos y técnicas utilizados en esta investigación son: análisis-síntesis, inducción - deducción, histórico -lógico, entrevista, encuesta, observación y tormenta de ideas. El análisis de los resultados se realiza a través del paquete estadístico SPSS, versión 19.0. Para el desarrollo de la investigación se trabaja con los empleados de la Dirección General y las Unidades Empresariales de Base, motivo por el cual se utiliza el muestreo probabilístico estratificado por afijación proporcional. En el diagnóstico realizado se constata según las percepciones de los empleados que el clima organizacional es insuficiente. Además, las dimensiones que presentan resultados más críticos son la motivación y la reciprocidad. Una vez conocidas las principales dificultades, se proponen acciones a implementar por la entidad.

 

Palabras clave: negociaciones comerciales, organizaciones internacionales, comercio mayorista

 

ABSTRACT

 

The research was carried out at the comercializadora mayorista ITH Varadero. Its aim is to propose a plan of actions in order to improve the organizational environment within the organization. The methods and technique used in this investigation are: analysis-synthesis, induction-deduction, historical - logical, interviews, surveys, observation and brainstorms. The SPSS statistical package (version 19.0) was used for the analysis of the results. In order to conduct the re search, the opinions expressed by employees in the company headquarters and base business units were taken into consideration. Therefore, probability sampling stratified by proportional allocation was used. According to the employees’ perception, the organizational environment is insufficient. In addition, motivation and reciprocity are the most affected dimensions. Once the main difficulties are known, recommendations will be proposed in order that the company can implement them.

 

Key words: trade negotiations, international organizations, wholesale trade
Análisis de las propuestas de reactivación económica para el sector turístico de Manabí, Post 16 A.
Authors: Alcívar Martínez Benigno Javier , Zamora Cusme Yesenia Aracely , Montesdeoca Calderón María Gabriela , Loor Zambrano Yoselin Melissa
Published: April 2019

En el análisis de las propuestas para la reactivación económica del sector turístico de Manabí, post 16 A, se estableció la línea base de las estrategias llevadas a cabo por el gobierno para la reactivación socioeconómica, luego se diagnosticó la situación económica actual del sector turístico, y finalmente se analizó la dinámica entre las propuestas llevadas a cabo por el Estado y el estudio de campo realizado. Para la ejecución de lo planteado se utilizó la investigación de campo, bibliográfica y descriptiva las cuales proporcionaron el sustento científico para el diagnóstico, se diseñó la guía de entrevista y encuesta para aplicarla a los informantes de calidad y a los turistas que acuden a las diferentes zonas, un grupo focal a las asociaciones del cantón dedicadas a actividades turísticas. Una vez obtenido el resultado se procedió a realizar la tabulación de los datos, precisando a través de la PEST la influencia de los entornos, identificando una disminución del 40% de los ingresos, además de mostrar y plasmar los factores que han impedido su potencialidad, aportando con datos específicos para el desarrollo de estrategias que propendan a mejorar dichas inconformidades.

 

Palabras clave: sistema de pagos, suspensión de plazos, diferimiento de pagos, modalidades de pagos.

 

ABSTRACT

 

In the analysis of the proposals for the economic reactivation of the tourist sector of Manabí, post 16 A, the baseline of the proposals made by the government for the socioeconomic reactivation was established, then the current economic situation of the tourism sector was diagnosed, and finally, the dynamics between the proposals carried out by the state and the field study carried out were analyzed. For the execution of what was proposed, the field, bibliographical and descriptive research were used, which provided the scientific support for the diagnosis, the interview and survey guide was designed to apply it to the quality informants and to the tourists who come to the different zones. , a focal group for canton associations dedicated to tourism activities. Once the result was obtained, the tabulation of the data was carried out, specifying through the PEST the influence of the environments, identifying a decrease of 40% of the income, in addition to showing and capturing the factors that have impeded its potential, contributing with specific data for the development of strategies that tend to improve said nonconformities.

 

Key words: payment system, suspension of terms, deferment of payments, payment modalities
Propuesta de sistema de control financiero del modelo de franquicia Cruz Azul, regional Manabí
Authors: Saldarriaga Salavarría Jenny Johanna , Loor Zambrano Halder Yandry , Pérez Meza Luz Elena
Published: April 2019

El presente artículo analiza la realidad que envuelve a los dueños de negocios franquiciados Cruz Azul, regional Manabí (Ecuador), quienes disponen de información financiera poco útil a sus necesidades, o desconocen dicha información, lo que imposibilita lograr los parámetros impuestos por la franquicia y dificulta alcanzar crecimientos sostenidos de sus negocios. El objetivo del trabajo fue diseñar un sistema de control financiero basado en el empleo de indicadores de gestión financiera que coadyuven a tomar decisiones en beneficio del crecimiento y permanencia de los negocios en el mercado. La metodología cuantitativo-descriptiva empleó encuestas dirigidas a 31 dueños de negocios franquiciados, concentrando 116 puntos de venta distribuidos geográficamente en Manabí. Los resultados del estudio permitieron efectuar un análisis del control actual realizado, estableciendo puntos críticos que limitan su crecimiento; y a la vez, se planteó un sistema de control financiero que permitirá cumplir con el objetivo planteado en la investigación.

 

Palabras clave: control financiero, sistema, franquicia, crecimiento, indicadores.

 

ABSTRACT

 

This article analyzes the reality that surrounds franchised business owners Cruz Azul, regional Manabi (Ecuador), who have financial information not very useful to their needs, or are unaware of such information, which makes it impossible to achieve the parameters imposed by the franchise and difficult to achieve sustained growth of your business. The objective of the work was to design a financial control system based on the use of financial management indicators that help to make decisions for the growth and permanence of business in the market. The quantitative-descriptive methodology employed surveys directed at 31 franchisee business owners, concentrating 116 points of sale distributed geographically in Manabí. The results of the study allowed an analysis of the current control performed, establishing critical points that limit its growth; and at the same time, a system of financial control was proposed that will allow the fulfillment of the objective set out in the investigation.

 

Key words: financial control, system, franchise, growth, indicators.
El dinero plástico de instituciones financieras: probabilidad de convertirse en el principal medio de pago
Authors: Moreira Solórzano Marcos , Loor Bravo Lucía
Published: April 2019

La modernización y globalización traen cambios significativos en los hábitos de compras de los usuarios de tarjetas de crédito y débito bancario (Dinero Plástico), el objetivo de este artículo fue determinar si esta tendencia se convertirá muy pronto en la forma principal de pago de los ecuatorianos. Para lograr este objetivo, un equipo de estudiantes del séptimo nivel de la asignatura Sistematización Contable y Financiera, de la Escuela de Contabilidad y Auditoría de la Universidad Técnica de Manabí, realizó una encuesta aleatoria a clientes de las principales entidades financieras de la ciudad de Portoviejo, Ecuador. En el proceso se utilizó técnicas bibliográficas, teóricas, empíricas, y analíticas, y observación directa; metodología que proporcionó información capaz de determinar que los tarjetahabientes aumentarán en los próximos años, lo que estimulará el uso de dinero plástico en las actividades comerciales. El resultado de esta investigación servirá de guía para el futuro de las transacciones comerciales que las empresas ofertan.

Palabras clave: Consumo, dinero, sistema de pago, crédito, mercado financiero
Presupuesto participativo para una efectiva participación ciudadana
Authors: Pilay Toala Félix Sixto
Published: April 2019

Al presupuesto participativo se lo define como un instrumento que da lugar a que la sociedad organizada desde lo más pequeño del territorio forme parte en la toma de decisión y en la construcción de una herramienta para la gestión administrativas y financiera de la entidad pública. Actualmente los Gobiernos Autónomos Descentralizados (GAD), enfrentan este desafío, lo que significa, hacer efectivo el mandato en la nueva Constitución. El estudio se centró en 24 de Mayo, un cantón empobrecido y con enormes desigualdades sociales, al mismo tiempo, se realizó una muestra en las ciudades de Portoviejo, Manta, Chone, Quito, Guayaquil, Cuenca, Cotacachi y Santo Domingo. La información recolectada a 379 líderes locales permitió tener una visión nacional de la necesidad de construir colectivamente el presupuesto público de los GAD´s y dejar en el pasado la forma excluyente y tradicional de elaborarlo y con ello, hacer efectiva la Participación Ciudadana.

Palabras Clave: Presupuesto participativo, gobiernos autónomos descentralizados, equidad, solidaridad
El aporte del marketing en la creación del capital de marca en las Pymes de Manabí
Authors: Ponce Andrade Jhonny
Published: April 2019

La dinámica del marketing genera autonomía y sentido de identidad a la marca y a la empresa. Se debe tener clara la definición de marca a través de su nombre, signo, símbolo o diseño, lo que permita determinar los servicios y/o productos que las organizaciones ofertan, estableciendo la diferencia con la competencia que busca satisfacer, probablemente, la misma necesidad. El objetivo de este artículo es apoyar a las Pymes de todas las latitudes de nuestra región, para que quienes las lideran comprendan que el capital de marca representa un activo intangible, cuya peana permite el desarrollo de ventajas competitivas y de ganancias futuras para la organización. Para ello, se empleó la investigación cualitativa, en cuyo caso la práctica de técnicas como la encuesta a través del Top of Mind, la entrevista, el focus group, permitió recabar la información de fuentes primarias, consumidores, empleados, Jefes de Producción, Gerentes Generales, Gerentes de Ventas y Gerentes de Mercadeo de varias organizaciones manabitas.

Palabras clave: Imagen, publicidad, teoría del consumidor y marketing.
Análisis de límites y alcances de aranceles específicos y ad-valórem. Caso Alby store
Authors: Tierra Tierra Stephanie Carolina , Noboa Sánchez Rodolfo José
Published: April 2019

Esta investigación tiene por objetivo analizar los límites y alcances de los aranceles y específicos ad-valórem aplicados a los importadores del sector textil y de calzado ecuatoriano, mediante el estudio de caso de las tiendas al detal Alby Store. Se compararon y analizaron las ventas en unidades de ropa y calzado, nacionales e importados desde Panamá, Perú, Colombia y Estados Unidos, entre el 2008 y agosto de 2014, con las variaciones de los aranceles aplicados en este rango de tiempo. De esta manera, se determinó que la salvaguardia de $6 por cada par de zapato impuesta en enero de 2009 afectó en mayor grado a las ventas del calzado que las impuestas a la ropa. En consecuencia, el calzado importado sí fue reemplazado casi en su totalidad por el calzado ecuatoriano en los siete años analizados, ya que los nuevos tributos incrementaron en un buen grado el precio de venta al público de la mercancía. En contraste, la ropa importada no se reemplazó por completo ya que la variedad de modelos es más extensa y moderna que la nacional, por lo que continuó siendo adquirida por los clientes de Alby Store y esto se reflejó en la recuperación en ventas desde el 2011.

Palabras clave: Economía de la empresa, política pública y regulaciones
Vinculación con la sociedad: una realidad cambiante en el paradigma universitario, desde la escuela de administración de empresas
Authors: Sánchez Briones Aracely , Moreira Zambrano Janeth
Published: April 2019

El objetivo de este artículo es realizar una descripción de los proyectos, con énfasis en las acciones desarrolladas, los resultados y repercusión obtenidos en la vinculación con la sociedad. La metodología utilizada fue de tipo bibliográfica, recopilación de datos y métodos estadísticos; también se demuestran los resultados obtenidos de los años 2013 y 2014, se genera una discusión comparativa de esta universidad con lo que está pasando en forma macro. El análisis fue realizado en base a la información de los programas y proyectos, lo que permite llegar a conclusiones fundamentadas en los logros alcanzados. 

Palabras clave: Enseñanza superior, centro de educación superior, provisión y efectos de los programas de bienestar.
Mejora del sistema de evaluación de desempeño para el talento humano del gobierno autónomo descentralizado provincial/Manabí
Authors: Sabando Garcés Leticia Yanina , Dieguéz Matellán Evis Lizeth
Published: April 2019

El objetivo de esta investigación es presentar una propuesta de mejora del sistema de evaluación de desempeño basada en indicadores, para el mejoramiento del talento humano del Gobierno Autónomo Descentralizado (GAD) Provincial de Manabí, contribuyendo a la eficiencia y eficacia laboral en la ejecución de los procesos institucionales en observancia a las normas laborales vigentes y la matriz diseñada según la Norma Técnica del Subsistema de Evaluación del Desempeño EVAL aplicada por el Ministerio de Trabajo. Entre los aspectos más relevantes de la propuesta están los indicadores utilizados, los cuales son definidos para medir los niveles de cantidad, calidad y tiempo, consolidado en una matriz estadística de tipo cuantitativa-cualitativa, que valora de manera integral el trabajo de cada individuo.

Palabras clave: Sistema de evaluación, GAD, talento humano, manual
Diagnóstico de proyectos productivos y soberanía alimentaria en comunidades. Caso Rocafuerte
Authors: Analuisa Aroca Iván Alberto
Published: April 2019

La población de la Papaya del cantón Rocafuerte realiza actividades agrícolas que tienen como objetivo mejorar las condiciones de vida de sus pobladores. Ellos priorizan la empleabilidad de recursos, capacidades naturales para la sostenibilidad y sustentabilidad de cadenas productivas. Es por ello que el aprovechamiento de sus fuentes naturales constituye una premisa para resolver el problema de la comercialización del producto final y la activación de la economía familiar. La investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar las condiciones productivas de los proyectos para alcanzar niveles superiores de vida y desarrollo en la población de la comunidad. Se aplicó la técnica de la observación, encuestas y entrevistas para establecer las condiciones de vida de los habitantes como. salubridad, alimentación, nutrición. Entre los indicadores de los instrumentos se abordan elementos para medir el consumo de alimentos y productos agropecuarios provenientes de las fincas. Los resultados han sido aceptables porque proporcionan información que permita realizar cambios futuros.

Palabras clave: Proyectos productivos, comunidades productivas, análisis social, participación local.
Valoración de inmuebles una estrategia para la inversión y financiamiento
Authors: Herrera Peña Jonathan , Salcedo Muñoz Virgilio , Malla Alvarado Franklin , Campuzano Vásquez John
Published: April 2019

El objetivo de este trabajo consiste en mostrar la aplicación de una técnica para la valoración eficaz de los inmuebles con fines de financiamiento por parte de una entidad gubernamental, específicamente la Corporación Financiera Nacional del Ecuador (CFN), hacia una persona natural o jurídica. Para esto, se utilizó la metodología de análisis comparativo de mercado con la técnica de homogeneización para el análisis de precios referenciales de bienes inmuebles que se comercializan en la zona de estudio, la misma que está relacionada a la Norma contable NIC 16, que es fundamental para el cumplimiento societario, tributario y financiero de una persona natural o jurídica. Esta valoración y el proceso contribuyen a superar limitaciones conceptuales y prácticas en el análisis de bienes inmuebles que se ven a menudo reflejados en incumplimientos legales por errores en la valoración real de activos.

Palabras clave: Valoración, análisis comparativo, bienes inmuebles, metodología.
La universidad como proveedora de servicios y la satisfacción de sus clientes (graduados)
Authors: Peña Vélez Isaura Vanessa , Molina Cedeño Jimmy Wilmer , Moreira Largacha Juan Miguel
Published: April 2019

América Latina y el Caribe se muestran deficientes en las evaluaciones de índole académica internacionalmente, ya que sus estudiantes se desempeñan por debajo de los estándares académicos de los países desarrollados. Ecuador no es la excepción, por tanto; el objetivo de este artículo es determinar la satisfacción de los graduados, tomando como muestra la carrera de Ingeniería en Marketing de la Facultad de Ciencias Administrativas de la Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí. La investigación fue de tipo bibliográfica y métodos estadísticos, donde los resultados obtenidos del análisis de las encuestas permitieron concluir que entre las mayores insatisfacciones se encuentran las falencias en la falta de información sobre las ofertas de posgrado, la atención a solicitudes de los estudiantes, información veraz y oportuna del personal de secretaría, la participación en pasantías remuneradas, las prácticas de laboratorio y los recursos tecnológicos, por tal razón no se alcanza el nivel de satisfacción esperado.

Palabras clave: Análisis de la educación, centros de enseñanza superior y de investigación, Marketing.
Los emprendimientos en la economía empresarial y estilos de vida en el cantón Sucre-Manabí
Authors: Ureta Zambrano Irinuska , Ormaza Cevallos Giancarlo , Cedeño Zambrano Maricela , Loor Zambrano Halder , Mera Macías Rosario
Published: April 2019

El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar los emprendimientos como parte de la economía empresarial y los estilos de vida de la población del cantón Sucre. Para ello se realizó una encuesta ómnibus a 382 personas del cantón, en las parroquias urbanas: Bahía de Caráquez y Leónidas Plaza, y en las rurales: Charapotó y San Isidro de Manabí. Los datos obtenidos fueron procesados mediante un prueba de Chi cuadrado, permitiendo orientar los resultados a afirmar que los emprendimientos son parte importante de la economía del cantón, pero que lamentablemente sus habitantes por su escaso nivel de especialización, no tienden a crear una cultura de ahorro que conlleve a mejorar sus negocios y por ende su calidad de vida.

Palabras clave: Emprendimientos, creación de empresas, economía empresarial,estilos de vida.