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1 – 10 of 16Mauricio Orozco-Levi, Angie Rocío Pabón-Quezada, Doris Cristina Quintero-Lesmes, Andrés Ramírez Vélez, Juan Carlos Jaramillo López, Norma C. Serrano, Victor R. Castillo, Angie Yarlady Serrano-García and Alba Ramírez-Sarmiento
Sedentary living and respiratory/cardiovascular diseases affect respiratory and peripheral muscles. Muscle training can prevent, improve and reverse these changes. Their research…
Abstract
Purpose
Sedentary living and respiratory/cardiovascular diseases affect respiratory and peripheral muscles. Muscle training can prevent, improve and reverse these changes. Their research question suggests that precise nutraceutical administration can enhance antioxidant capacity and muscle function. This sudy aims to evaluate the impacto of an innovative nutraceutical on blood biomarkers such as essential aminoacids, antioxidants, lipid profile, and REDOX status in healthy individuals, stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients, and mechanically ventilated patients.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors designed a nutraceutical to assess its effects on serum amino acids, lipid profile, vitamins, minerals and reduction-oxidation function. Conducted at a high-complexity care hospital, a study with a non-equivalent group design compared pre- and post-treatment administration.
Findings
The 29 participants were categorized into healthy individuals (n = 10), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients (n = 10) and COPD patients receiving mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit (ICU, n = 9) due to exacerbation. Analyzing serum values of selected markers and components before and after nutraceutical intake revealed significant differences. Oxygen radical absorption capacity units significantly increased (p = 0.0051) in healthy individuals. Isoleucine, valine, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium levels significantly increased in the healthy group.
Research limitations/implications
The small sample size and short duration limit the generalizability of results. The non-equivalent group design and lack of randomization may introduce bias, affecting reliability. Future research should involve larger, randomized controlled trials to confirm HIC1® benefits. Additionally, exploring long-term effects and optimal dosing in various populations, including different COPD stages and other chronic conditions, will provide more comprehensive insights. Despite these limitations, the study suggests promising implications for enhancing muscle function and antioxidant capacity through precise nutraceutical administration.
Practical implications
The administration of HIC1® demonstrates potential for improving antioxidant capacity and muscle function, particularly in sedentary individuals and those with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases. This study’s findings suggest that even short-term use of HIC1® can lead to significant increases in serum amino acids and other vital nutrients. Health practitioners should consider incorporating nutraceuticals like HIC1® into treatment plans for COPD patients and those requiring mechanical ventilation. Future research and clinical practice should explore optimal dosing and long-term benefits, potentially improving patient outcomes in chronic disease management.
Social implications
The use of nutraceuticals like HIC1® could have a significant impact on public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Improving muscle function and antioxidant capacity can reduce dependence on intensive care, decrease the economic burden on healthcare systems and enhance patients’ quality of life. Additionally, access to effective nutraceutical treatments could democratize healthcare, providing an affordable complementary option for preventing and managing muscle and respiratory diseases, promoting healthy and active aging in society.
Originality/value
This study is pioneering in evaluating the effects of a specifically designed nutraceutical, HIC1®, on both healthy individuals and those with chronic respiratory conditions. By focusing on precise nutraceutical administration, it addresses the gap in research on non-pharmaceutical interventions for enhancing muscle function and antioxidant capacity. The findings provide valuable insights into the potential of HIC1® to improve clinical outcomes in COPD patients and those undergoing intensive care, offering a novel, natural and potentially cost-effective approach to complement traditional treatments and support overall health and well-being.
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Ali Al-kassab-Córdova, Claudia Silva-Perez, Andres Quevedo-Ramirez, Marco Gonzalo Mendoza Lugo, Jonathan Azcarruz-Asencios, Giancarlo Castañeda-Montenegro, Sergio Bravo-Cucci and Jorge L. Maguina
Depression has become a major health concern, particularly in developing countries. This disorder is highly prevalent among certain vulnerable populations, such as prisoners. In…
Abstract
Purpose
Depression has become a major health concern, particularly in developing countries. This disorder is highly prevalent among certain vulnerable populations, such as prisoners. In Peru, prisons are overcrowded, and the health of prisoners is neglected. Thus, this study aims to estimate the prevalence of depression diagnosed during incarceration in male inmates from all Peruvian prisons and assess its associated factors.
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional study was conducted based on the secondary data analysis of the National Census of Prison Population 2016 in Peru. This study included records of prisoners who reported whether they were diagnosed with depression by a health-care professional after admission into the prisons. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed.
Findings
Of the 63,312 prisoners included in this study, 1,007 reported an in-prison diagnosis of depression by a health-care professional, which represents a prevalence of 1.59%. Substance use disorder (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 3.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.91–5.03), hypertension (aPR 7.20; 95% CI: 6.28–8.24) and previous discrimination (aPR 1.97; 95% CI: 1.62–2.40) were strongly associated with depression, even when adjusting for multiple confounders. Other directly associated variables were, for example, violence during childhood, infrequent visits in prison and diabetes.
Originality/value
The right of prisoners to adequate health care is being neglected in Peru. Mental health is a cornerstone of health quality. Acknowledging which factors are associated with depression in prison is important to implement strategies to improve the mental health of prisoners.
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Juan A. Sanchis Llopis, Juan A. Mañez and Andrés Mauricio Gómez-Sánchez
This paper aims to examine the interrelation between two innovating strategies (product and process) on total factor productivity (TFP) growth and the dynamic linkages between…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the interrelation between two innovating strategies (product and process) on total factor productivity (TFP) growth and the dynamic linkages between these strategies, for Colombia. The authors first explore whether ex ante more productive firms are those that introduce innovations (the self-selection hypothesis) and if the introduction of innovations boosts TFP growth (the returns-to-innovation hypothesis). Second, the authors study the firm’s joint dynamic decision to implement process and/or product innovations. The authors use Colombian manufacturing data from the Annual Manufacturing and the Technological Development and Innovation Surveys.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a four-stage procedure. First, the authors estimate TFP using a modified version of Olley and Pakes (1996) and Levinsohn and Petrin (2003), proposed by De Loecker (2010), that implements an endogenous Markov process where past firm innovations are endogenized. This TFP would be estimated by GMM, Wooldridge (2009). Second, the authors use multivariate discrete choice models to test the self-selection hypothesis. Third, the authors explore, using multi-value treatment evaluation techniques, the life span of the impact of innovations on productivity growth (returns to innovation hypothesis). Fourth, the authors analyse the joint likelihood of implementing process and product innovations using dynamic panel data bivariate probit models.
Findings
The investigation reveals that the self-selection effect is notably more pronounced in the adoption of process innovations only, as opposed to the adoption of product innovations only or the simultaneous adoption of both process and product innovations. Moreover, our results uncover distinct temporal patterns concerning innovation returns. Specifically, process innovations yield immediate benefits, whereas implementing both product innovations only and jointly process and product innovations exhibit significant, albeit delayed, advantages. Finally, the analysis confirms the existence of dynamic interconnections between the adoption of process and product innovations.
Originality/value
The contribution of this work to the literature is manifold. First, the authors thoroughly investigate the relationship between the implementation of process and product innovations and productivity for Colombian manufacturing explicitly recognising that firms’ decisions of adopting product and process innovations are very likely interrelated. Therefore, the authors start exploring the self-selection and the returns to innovation hypotheses accounting for the fact that firms might implement process innovations only, product innovations only and both process and product innovations. In the analysis of the returns of innovation, the fact that firms may choose among a menu of three innovation strategies implies the use of evaluation methods for multi-value treatments. Second, the authors study the dynamic inter-linkages between the decisions to implement process and/or product innovations, that remains under studied, at least for emerging economies. Third, the estimation of TFP is performed using an endogenous Markov process, where past firms’ innovations are endogenized.
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Andrés Cabrera-Narváez and Fabián Leonardo Quinche-Martín
This paper aims to study the use of photos in corporate sustainability reports (CSRs) as a means to gain legitimacy concerning Colombian post-conflict representations.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to study the use of photos in corporate sustainability reports (CSRs) as a means to gain legitimacy concerning Colombian post-conflict representations.
Design/methodology/approach
From a critical perspective based on legitimacy theory and political economy theory, and using visual semiotics and critical discourse analysis, this paper examines the use of photographs in sustainability reports as a mechanism to account for corporate actions regarding peace in Colombia. This paper relies on 121 pictures from 30 CSRs.
Findings
The analysis shows that companies are gaining legitimacy by referring to post-conflict through visual forms. Nonetheless, the structural conditions that caused the Colombian conflict are still present. Sustainability reporting that includes peace action representations becomes a control and subordination mechanism to reproduce existing power relations in the Colombian social order. Indeed, the generation of opportunities for civilians and ex-combatants, victims reparation, security and reconciliation remains unresolved structural issues. Hence, the use of corporate economic resources and their strategic visual representation in reports is just one business way of representing firms as aligned with government initiatives to obtain tax incentives.
Research limitations/implications
This study is centered on Colombian CSRs for the period 2016-2017; however, 2017 reports by some companies have not yet been published. This study also explored the messages contained in the images that include people. Images that do not depict persons were not examined.
Originality/value
This study provides evidence on visual representations of corporate peace actions aimed at gaining corporate legitimacy. Furthermore, this research examines a unique scenario that promoted more significant corporate social participation, following the signing of the peace agreements between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia, Ejército del Pueblo).
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Juan Carlos López Díez and Juan Velez-Ocampo
This chapter is intended to present the onset, evolution, and decline of Compañía Minera El Zancudo, considered the largest Colombian company in the nineteenth century…
Abstract
Purpose
This chapter is intended to present the onset, evolution, and decline of Compañía Minera El Zancudo, considered the largest Colombian company in the nineteenth century. Additionally, the chapter will examine its role in both the development of manufacturing industries and the introduction of modern capitalism in the country.
Methodology/approach
The case is based on secondary information collected according to a documentary research method in which the authors selected, categorized, interpreted, and confronted different sources concerning El Zancudo.
Findings
The inception and evolution of El Zancudo involved local and foreign knowledge, techniques, and capital investments that contributed to the company growing to the point of reaching the unprecedented figure of 1,350 workers in the year 1890. Its transition from a failed local mine to a prosperous and intricate business group is full of referrals and links to foreign investment, knowledge transfer, industrial development, and an orientation toward entrepreneurship that contributed to the understanding of subsequent enterprises not only in the Antioquia region but also across the entire country.
Research limitations/implications
This case study was written using limited reliable secondary sources about El Zancudo. Other significant Colombian companies in the nineteenth century (Ferrería de Pacho, Ferrería de Amagá, Empresa Textilera de Samacá, and Cervecería Bavaria) and their links to El Zancudo were mentioned but not deeply analyzed in this chapter.
Practical implications
The clear-cut causes that led El Zacudo to close its operations within the first decades of the twentieth century are worthy of discussion, not only by scholars and business practitioners, but also by policy makers in order to understand the phenomenon and possibly prevent existing companies from failing in a similar manner.
Originality/value
This case brings together the scattered literature on El Zancudo and analyzes the drivers and consequences of both its rise and fall, taking into consideration the specific historical, political, and economic contexts, furthermore, it establishes some linkages between this case and other companies under similar situations.
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Enrique Ogliastri, John Ickis and Ramiro Casó
The purpose of this study is to test the universality of the behavioral theory of negotiation developed in the United States, particularly the integrative/distributive models, and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to test the universality of the behavioral theory of negotiation developed in the United States, particularly the integrative/distributive models, and to find negotiators' prototypes in international negotiations conducted in a Latin American country.
Design/methodology/approach
An open questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 104 resident foreigners (expatriates) who reported the negotiation patterns of Costa Ricans. The qualitative data were coded in 52 variables (inte-rater reliability Fleiss' Kappa K= 0.65). A total of ten variables were selected to measure distributive/integrative patterns of negotiations. Latent class analysis (LCA) uncovered the latent structure of negotiations.
Findings
(1) The distributive (70% found in the sample) and integrative (30%) negotiation models hold in this culture. (2) The incorporation of handling emotions and interpersonal orientation in the integrative model seem to be an important theoretical and practical trend.
Research limitations/implications
(1) A larger sample size is needed to compare with data from other countries of the region and the world. (2) The use of emotions and interpersonal orientation in the integrative negotiation paradigm require further investigation. As practical implications, detailed negotiation advice is offered to Costa Ricans as well as to expatriates working there.
Originality/value
To identify negotiation patterns in an understudied region of the world, the distributive/integrative models of the behavioral theory of negotiations are a key focus with which to extend the literature. There are important elements of culture within the negotiation patterns, in line with trends of an evolving paradigm of integrative crosscultural negotiations.
Objetivos
Verificar la utilidad en un contexto latinoamericano de la teoría del comportamiento en las negociaciones, particularmente los modelos distributivo e integrativo. Identificar prototipos de negociadores latinoamericanos en un contexto intercultural.
Metodología
Se recogió una muestra de conveniencia mediante un cuestionario cualitativo a 104 extranjeros que viven y negocian en Costa Rica, quienes identificaron la manera como les negocian los locales. Estas encuestas fueron codificadas para tener una base de datos cuantitativa (coeficiente entre-evaluadores Fleiss de Kappa = 0.65) de 52 variables. Se escogieron 10 variables asociadas a los modelos integrativo y distributivo de negociación. Se realizó un Análisis de Clases Latentes en los datos (LCA en inglés) para descubrir la estructura latente de las negociaciones.
Resultados
(1) Los modelos de negociación distributivo (70% encontrado en la muestra) e integrativo (30%) tienen cabida en esta cultura. (2) El modelo integrativo de negociación está asociado al manejo de emociones y la orientación interpersonal, parte de una tendencia teórica y práctica en las negociaciones interculturales.
Limitaciones/Implicaciones
(1) Se requiere ampliar la muestra, y comparar con datos de otros países de la región y del mundo. (2) Orientar un estudio teórico sobre el manejo de emociones y la orientación interpersonal en el paradigma del modelo integrativo. Como implicaciones prácticas, se presentan consejos de negociación para los costarricenses, y también para los extranjeros que trabajan en el país.
Originalidad
Reconocer los patrones de negociación en una región poco estudiada. Los modelos distributivo e integrativo de la teoría del comportamiento en las negociaciones son una base para ampliar la literatura. Añadir el manejo de emociones y la orientación interpersonal al paradigmático modelo integrativo parece marcar una tendencia teórica y práctica de la negociación intercultural.
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Keywords
- Negotiation theory
- Latin America
- Latent class analysis
- Distributive negotiations
- Integrative negotiations
- Costa Rica
- Qualitative/quantitative methods
- Teoría de la negociación
- América Latina
- Análisis de clases latentes (LCA)
- Negociación distributiva
- Negociación integrativa
- Costa Rica
- Metodología cualitativa y cuantitativa
Miguel Andrés Sarmiento Tito, Paola Fernanda Vintimilla, Paulina Alejandra Echeverría Paredes, Byron Alejandro Quirola Campoverde and Silvia Alexandra Peña Gonzalez
The primary aim of this study is to create a comprehensive model quantifying the maturity levels of key determinants crucial for the sustained success of public sector…
Abstract
Purpose
The primary aim of this study is to create a comprehensive model quantifying the maturity levels of key determinants crucial for the sustained success of public sector entrepreneurship (PSE) [social entrepreneurship (SE)]. By integrating social, organizational and technological elements with Max-Neef's human needs, the model offers a holistic perspective for SE measurement. Notably, it emphasizes Max-Neef's existential needs (being, having, doing, interacting) to analyze variables crucial for sustainability, from diverse perspectives within SE.
Design/methodology/approach
This study presents a quantitative approach to develop a maturity model for assessing SE based on Max-Neef's human needs. The model integrates social, organizational and technological dimensions, using K-means algorithm for data processing. A panel of experts assigns weights to variables, and the maturity levels are adapted from the Capability Maturity Model. Data from 47 SEs in Ecuador's Zone 6 inform model construction, validated with two textile sector SEs. The methodology comprises three stages: variable selection, model construction and nonprobabilistic sample validation in Zone 6.
Findings
The research yields a maturity model enabling the quantification of PSE entrepreneurship maturity over time. It incorporates social, organizational and technological variables with Max-Neef's human needs, providing a broader perspective for SE evaluation. The model allows assessing the maturity level of each determinant, performance per variable in a Likert Scale, and facilitates comparisons between individual entrepreneurship and the overall population or sample. Visualization is enhanced through a color scale based on the Capability Maturity Model.
Research limitations/implications
Limitations may stem from the nonprobabilistic convenience sample used for validation, potentially affecting the generalizability of findings. The model's application is specific to Zone 6 of Ecuador and may require adjustments for broader contexts. Although the K-means algorithm aids data processing, its limitations should be considered. Future research could explore the model's applicability in diverse geographical and sectoral settings for a more comprehensive understanding.
Practical implications
This research has led to the development of a model that quantifies the maturity level of key determinants crucial for the long-term sustainability of PSE. This model integrates elements from social, organizational and technological dimensions, offering a comprehensive framework for assessing SE.
Social implications
This model offers valuable insights for the development and sustainability of social entrepreneurship by providing a structured approach to measure and enhance key social, organizational and technological determinants. By integrating Max-Neef's framework of human needs, the model helps social enterprises better align their efforts with fundamental human needs, ensuring that initiatives not only address societal challenges effectively but also contribute to long-term social well-being. This approach encourages the development of more resilient and impactful social enterprises that are capable of adapting to diverse socioeconomic contexts.
Originality/value
The model's uniqueness lies in its integration of social, organizational and technological variables with Max-Neef's human needs, offering a nuanced assessment of PSE entrepreneurship determinant factors from a human perspective. By applying existential needs (being, having, doing, interacting) as analysis levels, the model provides a distinctive and insightful approach to evaluating the impact of key variables. Its value lies in identifying strengths and weaknesses in each entrepreneurship, guiding support strategies and informing discussions for constructing effective public policies.
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Uncertainty is one of the principal features of public administration in Colombia. Therefore, presenting a clear and consistent analysis is difficult. This uncertainty exists…
Abstract
Uncertainty is one of the principal features of public administration in Colombia. Therefore, presenting a clear and consistent analysis is difficult. This uncertainty exists alongside interesting efforts to modernize institutions. Among the challenges faced by public administration in Colombia, we find corruption, illegal bands of drug traffickers, and the lack of trust between critical actors involved in governance. The aim of this chapter is to share an analysis that illustrates the difficulties and contradictions faced by those working in the public sector.
“Colombia is a legal social state organized in the form of a unitary republic, decentralized, with the autonomy of its territorial units, democratic, participatory, and pluralistic, based on respect of human dignity, on the work and solidarity of the individuals who belong to it, and the predominance of the general interest” (National Constitution, 1st Article).
“Colombia is a legal social state organized in the form of a unitary republic, decentralized, with the autonomy of its territorial units, democratic, participatory, and pluralistic, based on respect of human dignity, on the work and solidarity of the individuals who belong to it, and the predominance of the general interest” (National Constitution, 1st Article).
Monica E. Hirst and Bruno Dalponte
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the characteristics of the Latin American participation in the United Nations Mission in Colombia (UNMC), looking into the contributions of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the characteristics of the Latin American participation in the United Nations Mission in Colombia (UNMC), looking into the contributions of regional actors to the peace process in the immediate post-conflict. Testimonies from Latin American actors involved in the demobilization, disarmament and reintegration process help identify their perceptions of strengths and shortcomings of the mission. This paper analyses both the enduring relevance of their individual/institutional trajectories and the adaptations needed to implement the Peace Agreement in the Colombian context.
Design/methodology/approach
This is an exploratory case study. Primary data collection relied on in-depth, semi-structured interviews, allowing the authors to tap into how the trajectories of those involved help explain continuities and innovations of the UNMC regarding previous UN missions.
Findings
This paper argues that cultural factors are central to understand how Latin Americans participated in the UNMC. The design of the Monitoring and Verification Mechanism and the inclusion of a strong gender agenda make the UNMC a salient case, both for scholars studying Latin American presence in peace processes and for those looking into peace building, more generally.
Originality/value
The fieldwork, conducted with military/security forces, UN officials and civilians, has made available a diverse spectrum of testimonies that provide crucial insights into “lessons learned”, contributing to tracing the trajectories of these actors and providing insights for the improvement of future political and peacebuilding multilateral missions.
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