Centros: Revista Científica Universitaria

Editorial

Carlos Bellido — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Brands in the digital era, the crucial role of influencer marketing

Ricardo Jesús Pedreschi Caballero , Oris Mercedes Nieto Lara — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Influencer marketing is a tool that is considered a new category in non-traditional advertising media and is beginning to take hold, becoming a business to create a direct interaction with the target audience. In recent years, influencer marketing has become a highly lucrative communication channel that provides products or services to customers, particularly for different brands. The main objective of this study is to understand how brands are boosted through the use of influencer marketing. The method employed was a descriptive non-experimental design with a quantitative approach. The group of participants was composed of 61 students of the Marketing, Promotion and Sales Management career of the Aguadulce Extension. The findings reveal that 100% of the participants in the survey know what an influencer is and follow at least one of these figures in social networks. As is well known, marketing is a procedure where we detect the demands of the public for a product or service at the most convenient cost, in the most appropriate place and in the most efficient way, using a programmed communication system. The introduction to the different strategies leads us to incorporate influencers into marketing plans so they can promote the message and become spokespersons who influence a specific audience.

Risk assessment of depression in university students and its association with vehicular traffic

Jonathan Salazar-Johnston , Diego Chan , Luis Mendoza-Pittí — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Traffic congestion is a significant problem in urban areas, and Panama is no exception. This phenomenon not only affects the mobility and time of citizens but can also have repercussions on their mental health. Previous studies have shown that prolonged exposure to traffic can develop high levels of stress. However, despite the relevance of this problem, no research has been found that specifically addresses the relationship between traffic congestion and the predisposition to suffer from depression in university students. For this reason, the objective of this study is to evaluate the existence of a relationship between vehicular traffic congestion and the predisposition to suffer depressive symptoms in university students. The study was carried out during the first semester of 2024 at the Technological University of Panama. To find out if there was a link between depression and traffic, a survey was applied to a representative sample of students from the faculties with the largest student population, in this sample different aspects were analyzed such as their demographic data, mental health history, their responses to DSM -5 indicators and their perception of traffic. Based on the results found, it was concluded that there is a possible relationship between traffic congestion and the predisposition to suffer depressive symptoms, highlighting that this is greatly influenced by the noise caused by traffic and the amount of time lost in traffic.

Maps as Tools in the Epidemiological Surveillance of COVID-19 in Panama

Oris-Jesús Donoso-Agudo — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This article analyzes the relevance of maps as fundamental tools in the epidemiological surveillance of COVID-19 in Panama. It highlights their ability to visually present data through choropleth maps and graphs, which are essential for identifying the most affected geographical regions and implementing effective containment strategies. COVID-19, first identified in Wuhan, China, quickly spread worldwide. In response, Panama implemented sanitary barriers, contact tracing, physical distancing, the use of masks, and hand sanitizers. Daily diagnostic tests enabled the collection of statistics on infections and deaths. In this scenario, maps played a key role in justifying geographical decisions for public health interventions. The use of cartography to control infectious diseases has historical precedents, from Aristotle’s theories to modern quarantine models.

Analysis of Labor Competencies in Students of Engineering in Operations and Business Logistics of the Regional University Center of Veraguas

Pompilio Alexis Campos Portugal , Mavis Beli González Tejedor — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The aim of this study was to analyze the labor competencies developed by students of Engineering in Operations and Business Logistics at the Regional University Center of Veraguas and evaluate their alignment with labor market demands. A quantitative, descriptive, and non-experimental approach was employed. The research encompassed a population of 159 students enrolled and graduated between 2022 and 2023, from which a stratified sample of 113 students, representing 71% of the total population, was selected. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that assessed technical, management, interpersonal, and analytical competencies, complemented by a documentary analysis of the curriculum. The results were processed using SPSS software, utilizing descriptive and correlational analyses. Findings revealed a moderate self-perception of competence in technical areas, with supply chain management standing out with an average of 3.35. However, lower confidence was observed in competencies such as transportation and distribution, and logistics data analysis, with averages of 3.12 and 3.18, respectively. In management competencies, project planning and management showed a significant correlation with complex problem-solving. Regarding interpersonal competencies, negotiation and conflict resolution were identified as areas requiring more attention. In conclusion, although students feel moderately competent in various technical and management competencies, critical areas such as transportation, distribution, and conflict resolution need reinforcement. These results suggest the need to review and adjust the curriculum to better prepare students in these key areas.

Quality control to reduce environmental impact in construction projects

Margarita Torres de Cumbrera — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Quality control and environmental impact are key aspects in construction projects, both in their planning, execution, and delivery. This research aims to analyze the organizational structure, strategies, and costs associated with the implementation of quality control systems, using ISO 9000 and ISO 14001 standards. The methodology includes reviewing studies and successful international cases, as well as national and international regulations, along with surveys of Panamanian construction companies about their application of these systems. The study revealed that many companies see management systems as a necessary expense solely for obtaining certifications, rather than as a tool to improve efficiency. However, quality, health, safety, and environmental (QHSE) systems are fundamental for efficient management in construction. 27 construction companies in Panama were interviewed, analyzing their projects and approaches to management in the Building their projects and protecting the environment. The successful implementation of these systems depends on government regulations, financial resources, training, technology, and cooperation among stakeholders. Challenges include a lack of awareness, financial barriers, and resistance to change. Overcoming these obstacles requires investments in training, technology, and sustainable strategies. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also improve efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term profitability for companies. Thus, the proper adoption of management systems benefits both construction companies and the natural environment, as well as their market reputation.

VARIATION OF THE GRAVITATIONAL CONSTANT AND HE MECHANISM THAT MAKES THE OBSERVABLE UNIVERSE TO GROW

Juan Bosco Díaz Murillo — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Universal Two theories which involve changes over the lifespan of the universe: The Gravitational Constant changes as the universe is expanding. A potential mechanism that drives the Universe growth. This theory also brings forward that Space-Time is another form (thing) interchangeable with matter and energy. Both theories are correlated one to each other. Besides the above-mentioned main subjects, this paper also suggested that the red shift of the light from stars is not due to the Doppler effect as Hubble Law established but the effect of the Higgs Field during their journey toward us. This would explain the not need of Dark Matter. Basically, the two proposed theories have been developed by comparative state of the condition today versus any other age, this gives us the advantage of relative results. The calculation made compared with known parameters and already proven theories, match quite well. Other results cannot be compared because there is not data available or at least known by the author, however, the procedure used is the same as with already known parameter, therefore, such results might be expected to be correct. Based on the results and suggestions in this paper, one can say that revisions of some established concept related to Astrophysics might be made to get a better understanding of the universe and its evolution.

Marketing and its contribution to the achievement of sustainable development goals according to literature analysis

Ronald Ariel Gutiérrez Gutiérrez — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Marketing has provided contributions that help prevent natural imbalances through advertising campaigns that seek to raise awareness among humanity about environmental conservation. This study focuses on exploring scientific research related to marketing and the Sustainable Development Goals according to the literature, taking into account that these goals are partly committed to nature conservation. To achieve this purpose, a descriptive bibliographic review of literature was conducted by accessing documents from Elsevier's Scopus database with the following keyword query string: TITLE-ABS-KEY ("marketing" and "sustainable development goals"), which captured documents that contained the terms marketing and sustainable development goals in the title, abstract, or key concepts. The results show a scientific production of 599 documents published from 2005 to 2024 with a linear increasing trend in publications since 2015. The scientific works are of different types, among which the largest percentage (64%) is composed of scientific articles. A word cloud was constructed with the most frequently occurring keywords, including social marketing, green marketing, marketing, Corporate Social Responsibility, and innovation. Regarding countries with the greatest scientific production and collaborative networks, India and the United States stand out. The conclusion is that much of the achievement of the goals outlined in each SDG can be achieved with the support of different marketing strategies.

Eating habits of seventh grade students at the Azuero Professional and Technical Institute, Los Santos Province

Rita L. Barrera M , Félix H. Camarena Q Félix H. Camarena Q — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Research conducted at the Azuero Professional and Technical Institute (IPTA) in the province of Los Santos, Panama, analyzes the eating habits of seventh-grade students and their relationship to physical, mental, and emotional health. This study arose from concerns about the rise in childhood obesity, which is linked to chronic degenerative diseases such as diabetes and hypertension in adulthood (Macías et al., 2012). The main objective was to identify eating patterns and their impact on students' health. A survey was administered to 50 randomly selected students, using open-ended questions about their eating habits. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in Excel. The results revealed that fruit and vegetable consumption is insufficient: 34% consume only one serving of vegetables per day and 40% consume one piece of fruit per day. Furthermore, consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages is high, reflecting a lack of knowledge about healthy nutrition. This issue is aligned with previous studies conducted in Europe and Latin America, highlighting the negative impact of poor eating habits on overall health. The findings can be applied to design educational programs at the IPTA that promote healthy eating among students and their families. In conclusion, poor eating habits highlight the urgent need for educational interventions to prevent chronic diseases and improve students' physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Importance of finance in the prosperity of commercial enterprises in the district of Chitre

Sandra Estela Marrone de Gálvez — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The importance of finances in the prosperity of commercial companies in the district of Chitré, province of Herrera, has always been an important characteristic of their operations, especially during periods of recession, crisis or economic transition, in which the detailed process of observation and analysis of the financial environment in which the company has developed over time is experienced and which in turn shows the entire process that has been executed to survive in the market and which often shows empirical management, but which is also responsible and excellent, on other occasions it details inefficient management that punishes the financial health of the company. This study provides key tools to understand the use of finance to achieve prosperity, with a broad definition of financial management that considers elements of technical analysis in decision making, such as financial planning. Our goal is to determine the importance of finance to achieve prosperity of commercial companies in the district of Chitre, province of Herrera. A descriptive-analytical study is carried out, based on techniques such as survey and document collection. Conclusion: financial planning is an indispensable tool to ensure the success of commercial ventures in the region of Herrera Chitre since entrepreneurs must assume the effort to implement financial strategies.

Assumptions not attributable to the precautionary nature of pre-trial detention

Nadia Noemí Franco Bazán — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The objective of the research that resulted in the article presented here was to determine which assumptions are not attributable to the precautionary nature of pretrial detention. The research method is based on documentary or bibliographic review, conducting a comparative law analysis of the application, in various countries, of assumptions that are not attributable to the precautionary nature of pretrial detention. This documentary and comparative law review began by examining scientific articles and texts by renowned jurists and researchers on the assumptions considered for the application of the precautionary measure: pretrial detention, as well as judgments of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights regarding cases on assumptions not attributable to the precautionary nature of pretrial detention applied in rulings from various countries. The analysis of the results determined that the assumptions not attributable to the precautionary nature of pretrial detention have been, for the most part, social unrest, frequency, the defendant's criminal record, and the seriousness of the crime. All the authors and legal norms studied from various countries, as well as the reviewed judgments, lead to the conclusion that there are only two conditions legally attributable to the precautionary nature of pretrial detention: periculum in mora or risk of flight and fumus boni iuris or title of good law.