Runas. Journal of Education and Culture

Physical Activity Assessment Using Wearable Technologies: A Systematic Review

Danilo Santiago Reinoso Vanegas — 2026-01-16

This article presents a systematic review of the use of wearable technologies in the assessment of physical activity, applying the PRISMA method to ensure a rigorous and transparent approach. A total of 150 relevant articles were identified, of which 30 were selected for inclusion following a filtering process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The review highlights the advantages of these technologies, such as the ability to provide real-time measurements and data personalization, which can enhance user motivation and commitment to physical activity. However, significant limitations were also identified, including variability in the accuracy of collected data and technological dependence, which may affect the effectiveness of the devices. Additionally, ethical concerns related to data privacy and the economic accessibility of these technologies pose challenges for health equity. Findings suggest that while wearable technologies offer valuable tools for promoting physical activity, it is crucial to address their limitations and ethical concerns to maximize their positive impact on public health. The conclusion emphasizes the need for collaboration among researchers, manufacturers, and policymakers to ensure that the benefits of these technologies are accessible and effective for all population segments.

Sustainable management of out-of-service transformers: assessment of environmental practices and corporate responsibility in the power grids of Macas

Jairo Alejandro Naranjo Sarmiento — 2026-01-27

This study evaluated the practices of environmental management and corporate responsibility in the management of transformers out of service in the electrical networks of Macas, Ecuador. A quantitative, non-experimental and cross-sectional methodology was used with a census of 29 technicians and administrators from the Macas Electric Company, using a survey with Likert scale questions and review of technical records. The normality tests (Shapiro-Wilk) showed non-normal distributions in all variables (p < 0.05), a high reliability of the Cronbach’s Alpha instrument was demonstrated (?=0.865) and revealed significant correlations between key components of a sustainable management model justifying the use of Spearman correlations. The results showed. that linking traceability through up-to-date inventories, standardized protocols, strategic integration of sustainability and inter-agency coordination positively influences the adoption of environmentally responsible practices. These findings confirm the hypothesis that a sustainable management model strengthens environmental and corporate practices, particularly in resource-constrained contexts. It concludes by proposing a contextualized model that prioritizes the reuse of post-2015 equipment, disposal through reverse auctions and specialized management of transformers with PCBs, contributing to the optimization of resources and reduction of environmental impacts in rural electricity infrastructure.

Warehouse Management and Transformational Leadership: Analysis of the EMOV EP Case, Cuenca 2025

Raul Santiago Ordoñez Quito — 2026-01-28

The present study examines how transformational leadership influences warehouse management at the Municipal Public Company of Mobility, Transit, and Transportation of Cuenca (EMOV EP) during the year 2025. The research was conducted using a qualitative and applied approach, employing semi-structured interviews with all personnel in the area, along with the review of institutional documents and specialized bibliographic sources. The results show that, although the team recognizes in their supervisors qualities such as honesty, organization, and fair treatment, a traditional leadership model still prevails, characterized by limited delegation of responsibilities, lack of incentives, and scarce feedback. These limitations affect inventory control, training, and technological integration, resulting in poorly standardized processes. Nevertheless, it was identified that human talent management and decision-making are essential factors for achieving more efficient organizational performance. It is concluded that the comprehensive adoption of transformational leadership can increase staff motivation, improve resource utilization, strengthen transparency in the management of public assets, and consolidate an institutional culture focused on efficiency and service quality.

Transformational leadership and efficiency in project management: EP case FLOPEC, Ecuador

Patricia Betzabeth Macias Acosta — 2026-01-27

In the context of companies dedicated to maritime oil transport, various challenges associated with project management can be observed, such as delays, cost increases and possible inefficient use of resources. This study analyzes how transformational leadership can contribute to improving project management efficiency by promoting motivation, innovation, and strategic alignment that strengthen organizational competitiveness. The main objective is to evaluate the impact of this leadership style on the operations, decision-making, motivation, and performance of teams within the EP FLOPEC company. To this end, a quantitative, correlational, and explanatory research approach is conducted using Likert-scale surveys, semi-structured interviews, and documentary analysis. These studies were applied to a sample of 50 managers and department heads, with a 99% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. The expected results will demonstrate the positive and significant relationship between transformational leadership and project management efficiency, providing empirical evidence that serves as a basis for optimizing processes, strengthening institutional competitiveness, and consolidating an organizational culture geared toward high performance.

Standardization of Single-Line Diagrams and their effect on the operational efficiency of CENTROSUR substations, 2025

Juan Carlos Quezada Pacheco — 2026-01-28

The study analyses the standardisation in the single-line diagrams of the 19 electrical substations belonging to the CENTROSUR Regional Electricity Company. At the moment, the diversity of criteria and the absence of a single standard for the symbols used in these diagrams generates significant operational inefficiencies in the maintenance area, where technical staff face difficulties in interpreting the information during preventive and corrective maintenance activities, fault response and expansion projects. This situation leads to slow processes, misinterpretations and ambiguities that compromise the safety and efficiency of personnel. The investigation proposes the standardisation of symbols through the implementation of IEC 60617, which establishes guidelines and standardised graphic representations for critical elements such as switches, disconnectors, power transformers and other equipment that make up electrical substations. A quantitative, descriptive, correlational and cross-sectional methodology was used, through surveys applied to the substation department staff, including operational technicians and administrative personnel. Statistical analysis identified that the frequency of updating and reviewing single-line diagrams is the variable with the strongest impact on operational efficiency, showing a regression coefficient B = 0.718 with a significance value p = 0.006 (< 0.05), confirming its direct and statistically significant influence on improving electrical processes. The results demonstrate the instrument's solid internal consistency (Cronbach's ?= 0.838) and the model's high explanatory power (R² = 0.775), confirming that the standardisation of single-line diagrams plays a fundamental role in optimising operational efficiency, reducing technical errors and increasing the occupational safety of CENTROSUR staff

Criminal profiling as an auxiliary tool in criminal investigations: scope, limits, and judicial oversight

Bayron Iván Gómez Paredes — 2026-02-02

Criminal profiling is a tool that enhances investigation and strengthens the administration of justice, as it allows for the creation of a behavioral profile of the offender to determine psychological, social, and emotional characteristics that make it possible to reduce the number of suspects in an investigation, especially when the crime is violent and affects the fundamental rights of the victim. Despite being a very useful mechanism in investigations, it must necessarily be subject to certain constitutional and legal limitations that guarantee the rights and guarantees of the process. However, Ecuador is one of the countries that has not widely developed this investigative technique, nor the criteria for its application and admissibility in criminal proceedings, leading to a violation of rights and evidentiary principles, as well as affecting the validity of the process. Therefore, this research aims to analyze criminal profiling as an auxiliary tool in Ecuadorian criminal investigation, determining its scope, limits, and the judicial control necessary to guarantee respect for procedural rights and guarantees. The methodological framework applied was a qualitative approach with a descriptive-explanatory scope. A sample of 10 professionals from the Sucumbíos Prosecutor's Office, including experts and prosecutors, was used and given a semi-structured interview consisting of 10 questions. The results show how criminal profiling continues to play a relevant role in investigations, but due to certain limitations that are generally established in the Ecuadorian legal system, the relevance of judicial and prosecutorial oversight for its application within the framework of due process guarantees is highlighted. In conclusion, criminal profiling is not a science, but rather a technique supported by criminology and criminalistics that provides guidance for investigations and thus helps to solve cases of murder, violent death, or any other punishable offense.

The criminal responsibility of adolescents as adults in Ecuadorian law: Serious crimes

Jessie Fernanda Gordillo Castillo — 2026-01-05

This article was developed with the objective of analyzing the criminal liability of adolescents in Ecuador, particularly in cases involving serious offenses, in order to determine whether the current legal system adequately responds to the social and legal challenges faced by the country. The study was based on a qualitative and analytical–documentary approach, focused on the review of national legislation, legal doctrine, case law, and academic research related to juvenile criminal law. The analysis revealed that, although the Ecuadorian legal framework recognizes the non-imputability of adolescents and prioritizes socio-educational measures over custodial sentences, in practice there has been an increase in their involvement in crimes such as homicide, contract killing, and aggravated robbery. This situation has generated an ongoing debate regarding the proportionality of sanctions and the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in the face of increasingly complex contexts of violence. Moreover, the causes of this phenomenon were found to be associated with poverty, limited access to education and employment, family disintegration, and the recruitment of minors by criminal organizations. The research concluded that, while Ecuadorian legislation seeks to protect the best interests of adolescents, existing legal gaps hinder a balanced response between safeguarding their rights and ensuring public security. This demonstrates the need to review the legal treatment of serious crimes committed by adolescents, promoting a more coherent, fair, and effective juvenile justice system.

Procedural criminal law assessment of child pornography generated by artificial intelligence in Ecuador

Mateo David Arias Ordóñez — 2026-01-05

This research focuses on analyzing the legal possibility of accepting digital evidence generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in Ecuadorian criminal proceedings, specifically regarding the digitization and production of child sexual abuse material. In recent years, the rapid advancement of deepfakes and fully automated image generation models has substantially transformed the conditions surrounding the evaluation of evidence in court. The research employed qualitative methods, combining dogmatic-legal, analytical-synthetic, and hermeneutical approaches. The study considered Ecuadorian legislation, specialized doctrine, and comparative experiences to identify legal gaps that hinder the uniform treatment of digital evidence. It was found that, although Ecuadorian regulations recognize principles such as the legality of evidence, chain of custody, and judicial reasoning, there are still no rules for authenticating or evaluating files generated by algorithms. International jurisprudence was also identified that underscores the need for more rigorous expert controls and more robust authentication mechanisms. Finally, the work broadens its focus to the criminally protected rights that are threatened by the creation of child pornography through AI, emphasizing that the responsibility to guarantee the dignity, integrity and integral development of children as the central focus of any criminal response falls on the State.

Systematic review in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury using dialectical behavioral therapy as a therapeutic intervention

Lesly Gisselie Muñoz Vinueza — 2025-11-10

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to behaviors that involve deliberate self-harm and are used as a coping mechanism for emotional pain. In adolescents, NSSI is a risk factor for considering suicide attempts due to the physical and psychological challenges that arise when dealing with conflicting emotions at a personal or social level. Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) has proven to be an effective intervention for young people with self-harm due to its effectiveness in implementing emotional regulation techniques. To describe the effectiveness of DBT-A in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury. Bibliographic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and LILACS were searched, using MeSH terms, DeCs, and Boolean operators. The search included studies in English, Spanish, and Portuguese from the last 10 years, with open access, that were primary studies that included the research variables. The Rayyan digital platform was used for the selection and screening of articles that were clearly and thoroughly documented using the PRISMA method and validated with the CASPE and NHLBI guidelines. Eight studies were identified that showed a significant reduction in NSSI during and after treatment with DBT-A, thanks to the management of emotional dysregulation, constant behavioral monitoring, change strategies, acceptance and validation focused on improving interpersonal relationships, especially those with parents. Most RCTs had a small sample size and included suicide as a central theme and not only non-suicidal self-harm. DBT-A was shown to be effective in reducing NSSI because it works with dynamic practical units in safe and controlled environments, and also involves parental participation, which, given the age of the research population, generates long-term benefits.

Analysis of the Impact of Facebook Content Strategies on the Image Positioning of Hospitals in Ecuador

Andrea Carolina García Saquisilí — 2026-02-13

This study analyzes the impact of content strategies on the Facebook social network on the positioning of the institutional image of hospitals in Ecuador, using the Catholic Hospital of Azogues and Cuenca as a case study. The research was conducted using a mixed-methods approach with a relational scope and a cross-sectional, non-experimental design. Health institutions have recently intensified their digital activity with the aim of strengthening their ties with the community and differentiating their value proposition through audiovisual and testimonial narratives. However, despite international evidence on the impact of content marketing on corporate reputation, there is a gap in the academic literature regarding how these strategies specifically influence image positioning in the regional context. Quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to assess interaction and perception variables, as well as expert interviews. The results demonstrate that the strategic use of audiovisual content, narrative consistency, and publication frequency significantly influence the building of trust and reputation. It is concluded that Facebook is not only an informational channel but also a key tool for managing hospital identity and fostering emotional connections with the community.

Positioning Strategies of Higher Education Institutions on Facebook and Their Impact on Interaction with the Academic Community in Latacunga

Verónica Vaneza Peñaherrera Garzón — 2026-02-13

Digitalization has transformed social media into essential communication tools in the context of higher education, with Facebook serving as a key platform for social interaction. Facebook is the second most used social media platform, with 13.6 million users in the country; therefore, this research addresses the need to analyze how digital positioning strategies influence audience engagement at higher education institutions in Latacunga. The methodology employed in this research was mixed-methods approach, correlational in type, and non-experimental in scope. The study was based on the analysis of direct Facebook metrics such as reach, engagement, and web traffic, as well as on qualitative information obtained through interviews with teachers and communication experts. The results demonstrate a significant impact of institutional image positioning strategies through Facebook content on engagement with the academic community in Latacunga. In conclusion, the findings reaffirm Facebook’s role as the primary social interaction medium in the local educational sphere, validating the effectiveness of its strategic use for institutional engagement.

Systematic review of cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders in adolescents by gender

Wilson Esteban Muñoz Vega — 2025-11-10

This systematic review examined evidence on the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adolescents with eating disorders, considering gender differences. Eating disorders, characterized by disturbances in eating behavior, weight, and body image, are serious psychopathological conditions that may result in severe physical, psychological, and social consequences, including mortality. CBT is among the leading therapeutic interventions, targeting the identification and modification of maladaptive cognitions and behaviors related to eating. Relevant studies were retrieved from Scopus, PubMed, and LILACS, screened using the Rayyan platform, and appraised for methodological quality with the CASPe guidelines. Findings suggest that gender-related cultural and cognitive factors shape treatment outcomes, as reflected in patients’ concerns and symptomatology. Nonetheless, research remains limited regarding males and other gender identities, underscoring a significant gap in the literature. This review was independently funded without external support.

Analysis of the Audiovisual Narratives of Social Organizations on Instagram and Their Impact on Interaction and Engagement in Ecuador

Juan Sebastián Lazo Serrano — 2026-02-13

This research focuses on the new audiovisual narratives that are becoming increasingly relevant in contemporary communication, allowing stories to be told across multiple platforms and formats such as social media, videos, blogs, video games, and others. Among the factors influencing the problem addressed in this study are the low levels of interaction and engagement on social media, particularly on the Instagram accounts of social organizations seeking to reach an audience composed of volunteers, donors, digital activists, and cause ambassadors, among others. This study analyses the impact of audiovisual narratives focused on human development on Instagram to understand their influence on audience interaction and engagement. The methodology used was a mixed-methods approach with a correlational purpose and a non-experimental scope, using content analysis of Instagram posts specifically related to the independent and dependent variables, along with interviews and metric analysis, which enabled better results. In conclusion, the findings demonstrated that audiovisual narratives used by social organizations on Instagram impact audience interaction and engagement.

Analysis of Digital Narratives in Audiovisual Content Advertised on TikTok and Their Impact on Engagement: A Case of the Catholic University of Cuenca

Christopher Ramiro Atiencia Amaya — 2026-02-13

On digital platforms, engagement is a core indicator of the success of advertising strategies. This study aims to understand how the digital narratives of audiovisual content advertised on the TikTok account of the Catholic University of Cuenca impact the university audience. The effectiveness of a campaign depends on various factors, including content formats, the narratives used, and the strategy adopted to generate greater interaction depending on the type of advertising campaign. Thus, the gap between the empirical use of narrative formats and their communicative impact hinders a deep understanding of how audiovisual narratives influence interaction with the audience. This research used a mixed methodology that combined the analysis of publications and engagement metrics obtained through digital analytics tools within case studies of successful advertising campaigns. Furthermore, a qualitative analysis was conducted based on semi-structured interviews with experts in digital marketing and advertising, and the analysis of digital narratives according to the observation made. In conclusion, audiovisual narratives on TikTok have an impact on the audience, optimizing digital strategies and improving the return on advertising investment.

Analysis of Digital Communication Strategies of Public Institutions on Facebook: Impact on Audience Interaction and Engagement in Los Ríos

Galo Manuel Rodríguez Montes — 2026-02-13

Message personalization in digital communication has experienced exponential growth, influencing social and cultural dynamics at the provincial level in Los Ríos. In Ecuador, the proportion of citizens who access institutional news via Facebook is low, reaching only 5% to 10% of the population. This finding highlights a disconnection between the communication offerings of public institutions and the information consumption practices of local audiences. The present study analyzes the impact of the digital communication strategies by public institutions in Los Ríos on Facebook, in order to understand how they influence audience engagement. The methodology employed was a mixed-methods exploratory, and descriptive approach with systematic sampling of Facebook content specifically related to institutional posts, supplemented by interviews and metrics analysis, which yielded results showing how Facebook has influenced the consumption of institutional news in the province of Los Ríos. In conclusion, the results highlight how the social network Facebook has become the primary medium for news production and consumption in the province.

Creation of Sign Language Content on Facebook and Its Impact on Digital Interaction in Ecuador

Angélica Narcisa Mayorga Bedón — 2026-02-13

The present research is relevant given that social media currently play an important role in digital communication. The approach addressed in this study is aimed at analyzing the creation of content in sign language on the social media platform Facebook and digital interaction with its audience. This need arises due to the evident lack of inclusion of digital content for deaf people, the absence of inclusive content strategies, a lack of narrative and audiovisual criteria in sign language, a lack of knowledge of formats, and content that is not accessible and does not adapt to the needs of people with hearing disabilities, which therefore limits their participation on the digital platform. The methodology used followed a mixed-methods approach with a correlational purpose and a non-experimental design, including a content analysis of Facebook specifically related to sign language content and digital interaction, as well as the application of expert interviews and analysis of publication metrics. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that the creation of sign language content on Facebook impacts the digital interaction of people with hearing disabilities in Ecuador.

Analysis of Institutional Videos on Facebook and Their Impact on Engagement: The Case of the Municipality of Sucre

Emilio German Espinoza García — 2026-02-13

In the current era of digital and audiovisual communication, local and national governments use social media to inform citizens about the public works, actions, and projects carried out in their cantons, provinces, and across the country. In this context, videos play an important role as communication products aimed at generating engagement with institutional content. Various public institutions, such as municipal Autonomous Decentralized Governments (GADs, by its Spanish acronym), use Facebook to inform the public through audiovisual productions; however, in many cases it is unknown how these contents influence citizens’ perceptions. This study aims to analyze the engagement generated by institutional videos in order to determine the factors that influence audience interaction on the Facebook page of the Municipality of Sucre. The methodology followed a mixed-methods approach, of an exploratory and descriptive type, with a systematic sampling of the videos published on Facebook, as well as analysis of engagement metrics, which allowed for the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data. The results show that municipal videos exhibit varying levels of engagement, which largely depend on the format and the narratives employed during production and post-production processes. It is concluded that institutional videos have become an invaluable tool for connecting with citizens and contributing to a more favorable perception of the Sucre cantonal administration.

Storydoing as an experiential strategy for brand value creation in digital environments

Catherine de la Caridad Serra Castillo — 2026-01-12

In the current landscape, as a result of the oversaturation of advertising messages, brand credibility has been deteriorating and, therefore, audiences are increasingly demanding coherent, participatory, and demonstrable experiences. In this sense, the purpose of the research is to examine storydoing as a communication and marketing strategy for generating brand value in the digital age. To this end, the research follows a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and mixed methodological design, surveying active users in the digital environment and conducting structured interviews with communication and advertising experts. The results show that, although most respondents do not recognize the term storydoing, they do carefully appreciate the actual actions of brands, relating them to greater trust, reputation, emotional connection, and intention to recommend. In summary, storydoing emerges as a strategic method for brand building, as it shifts the focus from storytelling to verifiable action, thereby enabling more authentic and lasting connections between brands and audiences in today's digital landscape.

Rural tourism as a development strategy in the Juncal parish

Sandra Patricia Loja Pinguil — 2026-01-27

Rural tourism is a key strategy to promote sustainable growth in areas with cultural and natural wealth but facing socioeconomic and structural challenges. The objective of this study was to analyze rural tourism as a development strategy in the Juncal parish, assessing its potential in cultural, natural, and community resources. The research was quantitative, applied, descriptive, non-experimental, and cross-sectional. A Likert-type survey was conducted with 260 residents involved in rural tourism, and the data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS to determine reliability, normality, and correlations. Rural tourism promotes employment growth, income generation, and cultural preservation. Likewise, a significant relationship was found between community organization, environmental conservation, and the sustainable development of local rural tourism. The study concludes that rural tourism, when well-managed and participatively planned, constitutes a viable strategy for the economic and social development of the inhabitants of Juncal parish.