Exploration and Exploitation Innovations in the Food Firms

In a context of increasingly intense competition, creating a unique mix of value through innovation has been considered one tenet for creating a competitive advantage (Porter, 1996). During the past decades, innovation has become a central issue of strategic management (Nag et al., 2007).The literature has identified several problems in relation to firm failure innovation decisions, focusing on the supply-side (organizational competence, Henderson 2006; dependence of actual most profitable customers, Christensen, 1997; out-of-date competence due to technological breakthroughs, Tushman & Anderson, 1986), and on the demand-side (market turbulence, Abernathy & Clark 1985; institutional environment, Chesbrough, 2001).Based on March’s (1991) continuum perspective of exploitation-exploration2, we analyze the effects of knowledge-based innovation strategy on performance, testing the ambidexterity effect and extreme positions. Though both are necessary for survival and evolution (Levinthal & March, 1993; March, 1991), mindsets and organizational routines needed for each one are different. Tensions arise when firms make a simultaneous pursuit of both, being even impossible (March, 1996). Researchers have contributed from various literature streams to the discussion on balancing exploration and exploitation (Raisch & Birkinshaw, 2008; Lavie et al., 2010). The fact that there are tensions among both has led to a relevant research paradigm (Gupta et al., 2006; Raisch et al., 2009). This ambidexterity effect has attracted several researchers examining the tensions between exploitation and exploration.This study analyses how food manufacturers balance their innovation strategies. In particular, we analyze the effects of exploration and exploitation strategies and the type of innovation on performance. Since markets demand new and differentiated products, with high safety and quality standards (Grunert, 2005), innovation is a dominant strategy in this industry (Hauknes, 2001). Since supply chain management is critical, relationship-based innovation between distributors and suppliers has therefore been recognised as a major supply chain trend (Ganesan et al., 2009)

Actualización en el manejo anestésico del paciente obeso. ¿Lo sabemos todo?

Obesity is a growing risk factor that leads to perioperative complications increase. An appropriate preoperative evaluation, intraoperative management and monitoring during the postoperative period is essential to improve safety during the surgical procedure. These patients present criteria of difficult intubation and ventilation, respiratory complications, especially the Apnea / hypopnea sleep syndrome (OSA); metabolic syndrome; prothrombotic state and cardiovascular complications. The commented article described the physiopathological characteristics and current recommendations of the anesthetic management for these patients.La obesidad creciente en nuestro medio es un factor de riesgo para la aparición de complicaciones perioperatorias.  Un manejo perioperatorio individualizado, teniendo en cuenta la idiosincrasia de estos pacientes es esencial para mejorar los resultados y la seguridad del procedimiento quirúrgico. Un manejo anestesico adecuado puede cambiar sustancialmente el desenlace vital de estos pacientes

Wastewater Treatment by Advanced Oxidation Process and Their Worldwide Research Trends

Background: Water is a scarce resource and is considered a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. The modern development of society requires more and more drinking water. For this cleaner wastewater, treatments are key factors. Among those that exist, advanced oxidation processes are being researched as one of the sustainable solutions. The main objective of this manuscript is to show the scientific advances in this field. Methods: In this paper, a systematic analysis of all the existing scientific works was carried out to verify the evolution of this line of research. Results: It was observed that the three main countries researching this field are China, Spain, and the USA. Regarding the scientific collaboration between countries, three clusters were detected—one of Spain, one of China and the USA, and one of Italy and France. The publications are grouped around three types of water: industrial, urban, and drinking. Regarding the research, 15 clusters identified from the keywords analyzed the advanced oxidation process (alone or combined with biological oxidation) with the type of wastewater and the target pollutant, removal of which is intended. Finally, the most important scientific communities or clusters detected in terms of the number of published articles were those related to the elimination of pollutants of biological origin, such as bacteria, and of industrial nature, such as pesticides or pharmaceutical products

Use of NIRS technology for on-vine measurement of nitrate content and other internal quality parameters in intact summer squash for baby food production

This study sought to assess the feasibility of using NIR spectroscopy to predict the physico-chemical composition of summer squash during on-vine ripening, with a view to deciding on its possible use in baby food production depending on nitrate content at harvesting. NIR calibration models were developed using a set of 157 samples scanned in situ in the 1600–2400 nm region, using a portable handheld MEMS-NIR spectrophotometer working in reflectance mode. Modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression was used to interpret spectra and develop calibrations for summer squash composition. Results (R2cv = 0.83; SECV = 112.44 mg L−1) showed that NIRS technology has great potential for measuring nitrate content and also other quality parameters in intact summer squashes during on-vine ripening. In addition, suitable wavelengths for nitrate content determination were identified by x-loading weights and regression coefficients. These findings suggest that NIRS may be a valuable tool for the rapid, accurate and non-destructive measurement of nitrate content, with a view to ascertaining the suitability of individual fruits for use in the production of baby foods

Respuesta ecofisiológica y capacidad de fotoaclimatación de las praderas de Caulerpa prolifera (Forsskal) J.V. Lamouroux y Cymodocea nodosa (Ucria) Ascherson en el Mar Menor (Murcia, España)

Tras el ensanchamiento en 1972 del principal canal de comunicación con el Mediterráneo, la macroalga Caulerpa prolifera colonizó el Mar Menor. Durante más de tres décadas, su expansión gradual ha reducido las praderas de Cymodocea nodosa, existentes en la laguna, a manchas dispersas en zonas arenosas someras. El objetivo principal es describir la respuesta ecofisiológica y la capacidad de aclimatación de ambas especies con el fin de determinar la influencia de estos mecanismos en la distribución actual de las mismas. La fluorescencia de la clorofila a asociada al fotosistema II se empleó para determinar los parámetros fotosintéticos. Se midieron diversos mecanismos fotoprotectores y antioxidantes (concentración de fenoles, actividad antioxidante mediante el método de DPPH), concentración de clorofilas y carotenoides, así como el contenido interno de C y N, para caracterizar la respuesta fisiológica de ambas especies. Asimismo, se llevaron a cabo experimentos de exposición a altas irradiancias y recuperación en oscuridad para valorar su capacidad de aclimatación. Se encontraron valores bajos de los parámetros fotosintéticos (tasa de transporte electrónico máximo, eficiencia fotosintética) en C. prolifera. Sin embargo, se observó una mayor capacidad fotosintética y la ausencia de fotoinhibición en C. nodosa, además de una alta concentración de luteína y un alto grado de de-epoxidación correlacionado con un mayor amortiguamiento no fotoquímico. Los resultados muestran que C. prolifera se comporta como una especie de sombra con una baja capacidad fotoprotectora, siendo la luz uno de los principales factores que determinan su distribución en la laguna. Sin embargo, C. nodosa muestra estar altamente fotoaclimatada a altas irradiancias y su distribución no está directamente relacionada con el ambiente lumínico. Así la regresión de las praderas de Cymodocea, que se observó antes del deterioro de la calidad del agua de la laguna, podría estar relacionada con otros factores ambientales (exceso de materia orgánica, carbonatos en sedimentos, hipoxia…) o con la competencia con C. prolifera. Es necesario realizar experimentos manipulativos para profundizar en el conocimiento de la actual distribución de ambas especies.Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech

Las investigaciones psicoeducativas sobre estudios de caso/s: relevamiento y análisis de aspectos : Ético-procedimentales

Esta comunicación forma parte del plan de trabajo de una Beca de Estímulo a las Vocaciones Científicas (EVC, CIN-UNLP), desarrollada en el contexto del proyecto de investigación “Diseños de Investigación en Psicología (Parte II): análisis exploratorio-descriptivo sobre Estudios de Caso/s”, radicado en la Facultad de Psicología. El proyecto se propone realizar una sistematización sobre el uso de los diseños de estudio de caso/s (DEC), en diferentes áreas de aplicación de la psicología, sus modos actuales de presentación y tipificación. La comprensión del significado de la experiencia singular que permiten los DEC, genera que sean frecuentemente incorporados a las investigaciones en nuestra disciplina y especialmente en las investigaciones de tipo psicoeducativas. Sin embargo, los aspectos metodológicos y éticos, necesarios para un adecuado análisis de su función en el proceso de una indagación científica, no siempre son explicitados. Es por ello que, en este trabajo, se indagan los aspectos ético-procedimentales que son tomados en cuenta para el manejo de los participantes y comunicados en diferentes publicaciones. Este estudio conforma un diseño bibliográfico de tipo exploratorio, centrado en el análisis ético-metodológico de las investigaciones publicadas en el área. Se han relevado un total de 91 artículos relacionados a investigaciones psicoeducativas de los últimos cinco años correspondientes a las siguientes revistas: Revista de Psicología. Segunda Época (UNLP), Revista Orientación y Sociedad (UNLP), Anuario de Investigaciones (UBA), Investigaciones en Psicología (UBA), Revista IRICE (CONICET-UNR) y Revista Anuario de Investigaciones en Psicología (UNC). Mientras que 24 de estos artículos corresponden a DEC, en sólo seis se comunican las consideraciones éticas que se han tenido en cuenta en el desarrollo de la investigación. Sostenemos que la necesaria explicitación de los aspectos éticos integrados al proceso investigativo en este tipo de estudios, resulta de suma relevancia en pos de un manejo prudencial y respetuoso de los sujetos investigados.Facultad de Psicologí

Compost Tea Induces Growth and Resistance against Rhizoctonia solani and Phytophthora capsici in Pepper

Fuente: Agronomy[EN] Compost teas (CTs) are organic solutions that constitute an interesting option for sustainable agriculture. Those that come from garden waste have been applied in vitro and in vivo on pepper plants to determine its suppressive effect against both Phytophthora capsici and Rhizoctonia solani. The studied CT showed relevant content in NO3 , K2O, humic acids, and microorganisms such as aerobic bacteria, N-fixing bacteria, and actinobacteria, which play a role in plant growth and resistance. This rich abundance of microbiota in the CT induced a reduction in the relative growth rate of both P. capsici and R. solani (31.7% and 38.0%, respectively) in in vitro assays compared to control. In addition, CT-irrigated plants displayed increased growth parameters and showed the first open flower one week before those treatments without CTs, which suggests that its application advanced the crop cycle. Concerning pathogen infection, damage caused by both pathogens became more apparent with a one-week inoculation compared to a four-week inoculation, which may indicate that a microbiological and chemical balance had been reached to cope with biotic stresses. Based on these results, we conclude that CT application induces plant growth and defense in pepper plants against P. capsici and R. solani because of its relevant soluble nutrient content and microbiota richness, which provides a novel point for plant nutrition and protection in horticultural crops

Understanding the illegal drug supply chain structure: a value chain analysis of the supply of hashish to Europe

Despite the social, health, law enforcement, and economic importance of illegal drug supply, the lack of information and understanding regarding these supply chains stands out. This paper carries out a disaggregated analysis of the structure of the hashish supply chain from Morocco to Europe to explain the value contributions at each level, the end-price formation, and the supply chain management practices. The methodology adopted is based on a mixed method of data collection where the primary data are gathered from field interviews with cannabis producers and dealers and secondary information is obtained from official statistics, research papers, informational reports, and documentaries. We review supply and value chain frameworks through the lens of cost–benefit analysis. Our main findings show an unequal contribution on the part of the different levels of distribution, with end-user prices increasing by 7000% of the cost of production during the supply chain. The chain also has high variable costs but limited fixed ones, exacerbating the lack of stability and fostering continuous adaptation. We also detect a reluctance to raise end-user prices but a great propensity to change quality. This research may have implications for several stakeholders. In the case of dealers, we find that they have created a supply-push system thanks to their dominant power, leaning on information sharing as a source of resilience. In the case of law enforcement, we delve into the operational functioning of the drug chain and the reasons for its survival. For financial investigation operations, unknown or unrealized economic parameters are quantified. For development agencies, the need to implement alternative development programs for producers is evidenced. Finally, for health authorities, we highlight the consequences of seizures and prohibitions of hashish trafficking on the deterioration of the quality of hashish and the subsequently added health hazards for end-users

Explorando el uso de las Tecnologías de la información y la comunicación y las redes sociales entre el profesorado universitario de enfermería. Una encuesta de opinión

[EN] Objective. This work sought to analyze the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and social networks among the university nursing faculty staff in Spain. Methodology. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study using a questionnaire on ICT skills designed to comply with the research objective, which was evaluated by experts and which was subjected to exploratory analysis of principal components; the reliability of this instrument measured with Cronbach’s alpha was 0.85. The information technology tool used to publish the questionnaire on line was Limesurvey. The sample comprised 165 professors from 25 Nursing Faculties and Schools from universities in Spain. Results. Seventy one percent of the total surveyed used internet services to look for information, 63% used the internet as a means for formation and learning, and 72% used it as a communication platform (e-mail and virtual platforms like Sakai and Moodle). Although 51% of the teaching staff surveyed had more than 120 students registered in their courses, hypothesis testing revealed that the number of students in class is not a determining factor for the teaching staff to have greater interest to update its knowledge in ICTs. Younger professors use new technologies more profusely and the most-valued advantage of using ICTs was quick access to information. Professors perceive that after the Bologna Declaration, which requires modifying their teaching-learning processes through the new teaching methodologies, a drop has been produced in their performance and that of their peers in their area of knowledge. Conclusion. The nursing teaching staff is making strong efforts to confront the new challenges posed by ICTs to train the professionals of the 21st century. It is fundamental to pay special attention to improving the university teaching staff’s skills in managing ICTs, promoting the implementation of the knowledge acquired.[ES] Objetivo. Analizar el uso de las Tecnologías de la información y la comunicación –TIC- y las redes sociales entre el profesorado universitario de enfermería en España. Metodología. Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal en el que se empleó un cuestionario sobre competencias TIC diseñado para cumplir con el objetivo de investigación, el cual fue evaluado por expertos. Posteriormente, se le hizo análisis exploratorio de componentes principales. La confiabilidad de este instrumento fue 0.85, medida con el alfa de Cronbach. La herramienta informática utilizada para publicar en línea el cuestionario fue Limesurvey. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 165 profesores de 25 Facultades y Escuelas de Enfermería de las Universidades de España. Resultados. El 71% del total de encuestados utilizaba los servicios de Internet para buscar información, el 63% hacía uso de Internet como vía de formación y aprendizaje y un 72% lo empleaba como plataforma de comunicación (correo electrónico y plataformas virtuales como Sakai y Moodle). A pesar de que el 51% del profesorado encuestado tenía más de 120 alumnos matriculados en sus cursos, un contraste de hipótesis reveló que el número de alumnos en clase no es un factor determinante para que el profesorado tenga mayor interés por actualizar sus conocimientos en TIC. Los profesores más jóvenes utilizan con mayor profusión las nuevas tecnologías y la ventaja más valorada del uso de las TIC fue el acceso rápido a la información. Los profesores perciben que tras la Declaración de Bolonia, que exige modificar sus procesos de enseñanza aprendizaje mediante las nuevas metodologías docentes, se ha producido un descenso en el rendimiento propio y en el de sus compañeros de área de conocimiento. Conclusión. El profesorado de enfermería está afrontando con esfuerzo los nuevos retos que las TIC plantean para formar a los profesionales del siglo XXI. Es fundamental prestar especial atención al mejoramiento de las competencias en manejo de TIC del profesorado universitario, impulsando la puesta en práctica de los conocimientos adquiridos.[PT] Objetivo. Analisar o uso das Tecnologias da informação e a comunicação –TICs- e as redes sociais entre o professorado universitário de enfermagem na Espanha. Metodologia. Estudo descritivo de corte transversal no que se empregou um questionário sobre concorrências TICs desenhado para cumprir com o objetivo de investigação, o qual foi avaliado por experientes e ao que posteriormente se lhe fez análise exploratório de componentes principais; a confiabilidade deste instrumento medida com o alfa de Cronbach foi 0.85. A ferramenta informática utilizada para publicar na linha o questionário foi Limesurvey. A amostra esteve composta por 165 professores de 25 Faculdades e Escolas de Enfermagem das Universidades da Espanha. Resultados. 71% do total de interrogados utilizava os serviços de Internet para procurar informação, 63% fazia uso de internet como via de formação e aprendizagem e um 72% o empregava como plataforma de comunicação (correio eletrônico e plataformas virtuais como Sakai e Moodle). Apesar de que 51% do professorado interrogado tinha mais de 120 alunos matriculados em seus cursos, um contraste de hipótese revelou que o número de alunos em classe não é um fator determinante para que o professorado tenha maior interesse por atualizar seus conhecimentos em TICs. Os professores mais jovens utilizam com maior profusão as novas tecnologias e a vantagem mais valorizada do uso das TICs foi o acesso rápido à informação. Os professores percebem que depois da Declaração de Bologna, que exige modificar seus processos de ensino-aprendizagem mediante as novas metodologias docentes, produziu-se um descenso no endimento próprio e no de seus colegas da área de conhecimento. Conclusão. O professorado de enfermagem está enfrentado com esforço os novos reptos que as TICs propõem para formar aos profissionais do século XXI. É fundamental prestar especial atendimento ao melhoramento as concorrências em manejo de TICs do professorado universitário, impulsionando a posta em prática dos conhecimentos adquiridos.S

Programa de educación para la salud: donación de leche materna

Son ampliamente conocidos todos los beneficios que la leche materna otorga a los bebés recién nacidos. Existen determinadas situaciones en las que lamentablemente la leche de la propia madre no está disponible, ante esta situación la leche donada se considera como recurso de primera elección para el mantenimiento de la lactancia. Los bancos de leche humana se crean para garantizar la disponibilidad de este alimento de forma segura.<br /