Characterization of clinical trials in Ecuador and their association with disease burden: Are there research gaps?

This study offers a detailed analysis of clinical trials conducted in Ecuador from 2010 to 2022 to assess alignment with the country's disease burden as indicated by the Global Burden of Disease study. Utilizing data from five registries, including ARCSA and Clinicaltrials.gov, we analyzed characteristics and coverage of 75 CTs after removing duplicates and ineligible studies. Findings reveal a 50% research gap across disease groups, with neoplasms being the only category matching disease burden. The scarcity of clinical research highlights the disparity between CTs and prevalent diseases such as cardiovascular and kidney diseases, diabetes, and other non-communicable conditions. Our results underscore the urgent need for increased clinical research investment addressing these critical health challenges in Ecuador.

Assessing and Achieving Quality in Qualitative Research: Clues for Researchers in Training.

Abstract: This article deals with the particularities of the quality of qualitative research, under the double lens of valuing it and ensuring it. While achieving the quality of qualitative research concerns only those who have opted for this methodology, assessing it is everyone's business because researchers in training will encounter, in the literature reviews, qualitative studies on which they must reflect and estimate their quality. Appreciating the quality of a research work is a complex activity as it is situated within a context and conducted by individuals who use any of the means available to do so. The means they use are criteria as evaluation guides and criteria checklists. For researchers in training, I suggest some guiding criteria to evaluate qualitative publications and ensure quality during the research process, key issues that they must address.

One hundred years of Ecuadorian biomedical scientific output and its association with the main causes of mortality: a bibliometric study.

Introduction: Historically, low-and middle-income countries have been scarce producers of biomedical research; only 2% of the global scientific output is produced by these countries despite accounting for 92% of the global burden of disease. In addition, few low-and middle-income countries have exhaustively mapped and analyzed their scientific production in health and its association with main local burden of disease. Objective: To evaluate the evolution of biomedical research in Ecuador over the last 100 years and its relationship with the main causes of mortality. Methods: A bibliometric study embedded in a systematic review design was carried out using biomedical publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) during the period 1920-2021. Information from the National Institute of Statistics and Census was used to identify the main causes of mortality. Results: Our search strategy identified 16,697 publications related to biomedicine in Ecuador. Of these 3,225 articles met the criteria for this study. Since 2010, there has been an exponential increase in scientific production in biomedicine. This increase was predominantly based on cross-sectional observational studies (49.67%). During the period analyzed (1920-2021), biomedical production was distributed with 52.43% in clinical research, 37.79% in public health, and 9.77% in basic sciences. The research focus with the highest number of publications was epidemiology and surveillance system of diseases (23.44%). Additionally, private universities are the largest producers of biomedical research compared to public universities, 40.12% vs. 19.60%, respectively. Of the total biomedical research produced, 18.54% is associated with the main causes of mortality, and the Ecuadorian private university is the largest contributor to these studies compared to public universities, 39.97% vs. 16.72%. Conclusion: In one century, Ecuador produced 3,225 articles in biomedicine, according to our criteria. 18.54% of the total produced is aimed at solving the main causes of mortality in the country. Private universities are the leaders in scientific production related to health in Ecuador.

Assessing and Achieving Quality in Qualitative Research: Clues for Researchers in Training* / Valorar y lograr la calidad de la investigación cualitativa: claves para investigadores en formación / Avaliar e alcançar a qualidade da pesquisa qualitativa: chaves para pesquisadores em formação

This article deals with the particularities of the quality of qualitative research, under the double lens of valuing it and ensuring it. While achieving the quality of qualitative research concerns only those who have opted for this methodology, assessing it is everyone's business because researchers in training will encounter, in the literature reviews, qualitative studies on which they must reflect and estimate their quality. Appreciating the quality of a research work is a complex activity as it is situated within a context and conducted by individuals who use any of the means available to do so. The means they use are criteria as evaluation guides and criteria checklists. For researchers in training, I suggest some guiding criteria to evaluate qualitative publications and ensure quality during the research process, key issues that they must address.

Este artículo trata sobre las particularidades de la calidad de la investigación cualitativa, bajo la doble lente de valorarla y asegurarla. Mientras que alcanzar la calidad de una investigación cualitativa atañe solo a los que han optado por esta metodología, valorarla es asunto de todos, ya que los investigadores en formación se encontrarán en las revisiones bibliográficas con estudios cualitativos sobre los cuales deberán reflexionar y estimar su calidad. Apreciar la calidad de un trabajo de investigación es una actividad compleja ya que está situada en un contexto y llevada a cabo por personas que usan alguno de los medios disponibles para hacerlo. Los medios que usan son los criterios como guías de evaluación y los listados de verificación de criterios. Para los investigadores en formación sugiero unos criterios guía para la valoración de publicaciones cualitativas y para asegurar la calidad durante el proceso de investigación, unas cuestiones claves a las que deben atender.

Este artigo trata das particularidades da qualidade da pesquisa qualitativa, sob a dupla lente de valorizá-la e garanti-la. Embora alcançar a qualidade da pesquisa qualitativa seja do interesse de quem optou por esta metodologia, Avaliar é tarefa de todos, pois os pesquisadores em formação se encontrarão em revisões bibliográficas com estudos qualitativos, sobre os quais deverão refletir e estimar sua qualidade. Avaliar a qualidade de um trabalho de investigação é uma atividade complexa, pois está situada num context e é realizada por pessoas que utilizam qualquer um dos meios disponíveis para o fazer. Os meios que utilizam são critérios como guias de avaliação e listas de verificação de critérios. Aos pesquisadores em formação, sugiro alguns critérios norteadores para avaliar publicações qualitativas e para garantir a qualidade durante o processo de pesquisa, questões chaves que devem ser abordadas.

A arte de elaborar uma pergunta de pesquisa / The art of crafting a research question

A criatividade na elaboração da pergunta impacta todo o processo da pesquisa, buscando suprir as lacuna do conhecimento, gerar percepções, instigar reflexões e procurar resolver problemas até então insolúveis. Objetivo: refletir acerca dos princípios fundamentais envolvidos na formulação de perguntas de pesquisa. Método: Estudo de crítico e reflexivo sobre tendências, lacunas e perspectivas emergentes contribuindo para uma compreensão mais aprofundada da complexidade envolvida na elaboração de perguntas de pesquisa. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias "Dimensões" e "Parâmetros" essenciais na elaboração da pergunta de pesquisa". Discussão: Acadêmicos e orientadores enfrentam dificuldades ao identificar elementos essenciais em uma pergunta de pesquisa estratégica e objetiva, denunciando a incerteza que provoca para a compreensão e investigação dos fenômenos. Deve ser sustentada por um paradigma de intelegibilidade, relação lógica e coerência epistemológica, subsidiando o autor na explcitação de sua voz. Conclusão: A habilidade de elaborar uma pergunta de pesquisa destaca a maestria do pesquisador, transcendendo a fronteira meramente linguistica.(AU)

Creativity in question formulation has an impact on the entire research process, seeking to fill knowledge gaps, generate insights, instigate reflections and try to solve previously unsolvable problems. Objective: To reflect on the fundamental principles involved in formulating research questions. Method: A critical and reflective study on emerging trends, gaps and perspectives, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexity involved in formulating research questions. Results: Two categories emerged: "Dimensions" and "Parameters", which are essential when formulating a research question". Discussion: Academics and advisors face difficulties in identifying essential elements in a strategic and objective research question, denouncing the uncertainty it causes for understanding and investigating phenomena. It must be supported by a paradigm of intelegibility, logical relationship and epistemological coherence, supporting the author in explaining his or her voice. Conclusion: The ability to elaborate a research question highlights the mastery of the researcher, transcending the merely linguistic frontier.(AU)

La creatividad en la formulación de preguntas repercute en todo el proceso de investigación, al tratar de colmar lagunas de conocimiento, generar ideas, suscitar reflexiones y tratar de resolver problemas antes insolubles. Objetivo: Reflexionar sobre los principios fundamentales implicados en la formulación de preguntas de investigación. Método: Estudio crítico y reflexivo de las tendencias, lagunas y perspectivas emergentes, contribuyendo a una comprensión más profunda de la complejidad que entraña la formulación de preguntas de investigación. Resultados: Surgieron dos categorías: "Dimensiones" y "Parámetros" que son esenciales a la hora de diseñar una pregunta de investigación". Discusión: Académicos y orientadores enfrentan dificultades para identificar los elementos esenciales en una pregunta de investigación estratégica y objetiva, denunciando la incertidumbre que provoca para la comprensión e investigación de los fenómenos. Debe apoyarse en un paradigma de intelegibilidad, relación lógica y coherencia epistemológica, ayudando al autor a explicitar su voz. Conclusión: La capacidad de elaborar una pregunta de investigación destaca el dominio del investigador, trascendiendo la frontera meramente lingüística. (AU)

Resultados del Programa Territorial "Desarrollo de productos y servicios de salud"

Un programa de ciencia, tecnología e innovación es un conjunto de actividades organizadas en proyectos que se relacionan entre sí, cuyo objetivo es resolver un problema identificado según las prioridades y dirigido a lograr resultados de impactos específicos. En la provincia Santiago de Cuba está en acción, desde el año 2020, el Programa Territorial "Desarrollo de productos y servicios de salud", que ha ejecutado 12 proyectos de investigación. En el presente artículo se identifican sus resultados científico-técnicos y, además, se plantea que estos responden a prioridades sectoriales y territoriales y se encuentran en correspondencia con las políticas del sector sanitario y de la educación superior en Cuba. Su introducción contribuye a resolver las problemáticas de salud en el territorio mediante la aplicación de la ciencia y la innovación tecnológica para el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y la rehabilitación de pobladores con enfermedades.

A science, technology and innovation program is a group of activities organized in projects that are related to each other, which objective is to solve a problem identified according to the priorities and directed to achieve results of specific impacts. In Santiago de Cuba province the Territorial Program "Development of products and health services" is in action since 2020, which has implemented 12 investigation projects. In this work the scientific-technical results are identified; also, it is considered that they respond to sectoral and territorial priorities and are in correspondence with the policy of the health sector and higher education in Cuba. Their introduction contributes to solve the health problems in the territory by means of the implementation of science and technological innovation for the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of persons with diseases.

Antecedentes históricos e implicaciones bioéticas de la medicina basada en la evidencia

Introducción: El desarrollo histórico de la medicina basada en la evidencia está interrelacionado con el desarrollo de la investigación científica y su implementación en la práctica médica. Durante este proceso se validó el método científico y se refuerza la necesidad de controles éticos. Objetivo: Recorrer el desarrollo histórico de la medicina basada en la evidencia y enfatizar en las implicaciones bioéticas para una adecuada implementación en aras de contribuir al perfeccionamiento de las ciencias médicas. Métodos: En la implementación clínica de la medicina basada en la evidencia, el nivel de evidencia científica durante la evaluación de la literatura se jerarquiza, y esto ayuda a los profesionales en la toma de decisiones clínicas. Focalizar la implementación de un medio diagnóstico o una medida terapéutica según la gradualidad y calidad de la evidencia sin más, con una visión que deja fuera los valores morales, el contexto social y la participación del propio paciente, y excluir los distintos obstáculos sociales, culturales y económicos constituye una brecha existente durante la implementación de manera aislada de la medicina basada en la evidencia y es aquí donde la bioética es fundamental, debe conceptualizarse no solo para proteger al paciente sino que debe dar respuesta ante la complejidad tecnológica y científica. Conclusiones: La medicina basada en la evidencia trae consigo una mayor calidad de la práctica clínica y, a la vez, plantea la necesidad de asumir una ética de atención al paciente. Debe ser una práctica que integre lo científico con lo axiológico, conceptualizando en salud una bioética basada en la evidencia.

Introduction: The historical development of evidence-based medicine is interrelated with the development of scientific research and its implementation in medical practice. During this process, the scientific method was validated and the need for ethical controls is reinforced. Objective: To review the historical development of evidence-based medicine and to emphasize on the bioethical implications for an adequate implementation in order to contribute to the improvement of medical sciences. Methods: In the clinical implementation of evidence-based medicine, the level of scientific evidence during the assessment of literature is hierarchized, which helps professionals make clinical decisions. Focusing the implementation of a diagnostic means or a therapeutic measure according to the gradualness and quality of evidence with no more, under a vision rulingout moral values, the social context and the participation of patientsthemselves, as well as excluding the various social, cultural and economic obstacles, represents a gap existing during the isolated implementation of evidence-based medicine. At this point, bioethics is paramount; it must be conceptualized not only to protect the patient, but it must respond in the face of technological and scientific complexity. Conclusions: Evidence-based medicine brings about higher quality of clinical practice and, at the same time, raises the need to assume ethics of patient care. It should be a practice that integrates the scientific with the axiological, conceptualizing evidence-based bioethics in health.

Importancia de la implementación y divulgación de la Investigación en Humanidades en Salud / Importance of the implementation and dissemination of Humanities Research in Health

Las humanidades en salud y en particular sus enfoques críticos, son indispensables para fortalecer la investigación orientada a producir conocimiento respecto al estudio de los fenómenos relacionados con la salud, la enfermedad y la muerte desde sus dimensiones social, antropológica, histórica, ética y política. En este sentido, surge la necesidad de promover métodos de investigación a partir del planteamiento de preguntas sobre las experiencias de las personas que viven procesos de salud, enfermedad y muerte. Estas preguntas deben realizarse desde epistemologías interdisciplinarias que ayuden en la comprensión de dichas experiencias y a traducir el conocimiento derivado de la investigación en acciones centradas en las personas, con pertinencia social, cultural y ética. La intención es impulsar el diseño, implementación, evaluación y publicación de la Investigación de Humanidades en Salud, mediante el fortalecimiento de redes de investigación en salud interdisciplinar e interprofesional, con el propósito de fundamentar acciones efectivas en el marco del derecho de la población en la atención con equidad e inclusión. (AU)

The humanities in health, and particularly their critical approaches, are indispensable for strengthening research aimed at producing knowledge regarding the study of phenomena related to health, illness, and death from their social, anthropological, historical, ethical, and political dimensions. In this sense, we need to promote research methods and pose questions about the experiences of individuals undergoing processes of health, illness, and death. These questions should be approached from interdisciplinary epistemologies that aid in the understanding of such experiences and in translating the knowledge derived from research into people-centered actions, with social, cultural, and ethical relevance. The intention is to drive the design, implementation, evaluation, and publication of Health Humanities Research by strengthening interdisciplinary and interprofessional health research networks, with the purpose of substantiating effective actions within the framework of the population's right to equitable and inclusive care. (AU)

Conocimientos, habilidades y actitudes hacia la investigación científica de estudiantes de posgrado en enfermería / Knowledge, skills, and attitudes of postgraduate nursing students regarding scientific research / Conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes relacionados a pesquisa científica de alunos de pós-graduação em enfermagem

Objetivo: Describir los conocimientos, habilidades y actitudes hacia la investigación científica de los estudiantes del posgrado en Enfermería en Cuidados Críticos de una institución privada de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires en el primer semestre del 2023. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, transversal y cuantitativo. Con una muestra intencional de 43 estudiantes de posgrado de Enfermería. Se implementaron y validaron dos instrumentos diseñados para la autoevaluación de las habilidades investigativas y la evaluación de las percepciones hacia el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje de la investigación; durante los meses de marzo a abril del 2023. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo e inferencial utilizando el software Infostat. Se implementó el consentimiento informado y no se recolectaron datos filiatorios. Resultados: Los encuestados tuvieron una media de edad de 34,14 años, y fueron mayormente mujeres, de estado civil solteras, sin hijos, y con 8,98 años de experiencia laboral. El escaso abordaje de la investigación en el plan de estudios y los conocimientos en análisis estadístico, fueron las actitudes y habilidades con peor valoración, mientras, la vinculación de la investigación con la profesión y la interpretación de resultados, fueron las actitudes y habilidades mejor evaluadas. Si bien el 48,84% reportaron haber participado en actividades de investigación, solo el 6,98% han publicado un artículo científico. Conclusiones: Se halló una valoración mayormente positiva hacia la investigación científica, mientras, la autoevaluación de conocimientos y habilidades para investigar fue medianamente adecuada. El sexo, la edad y la antigüedad profesional mostraron relación con los conocimientos y habilidades para investigar.

Objective: To describe the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that students of a postgraduate program in Critical Care Nursing at a private institution in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires have regarding scientific research, in the first semester of 2023. Methodology: Descriptive, cross-sectional, and quantitative study with a purposive sample of 43 postgraduate nursing students. Two instruments were implemented and validated between March and April 2023, designed for the self-assessment of research skills and to evaluate the perceptions of the process of teaching and learning about research. A descriptive and inferential analysis was conducted using the Infostat software. Informed consent was obtained from the participants, and no personal data were collected. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 34.14 years, who were in their majority women, single, without children, and had 8.98 years of work experience. The attitudes and skills that received the worst evaluation were the limited approach to research in the curriculum and the knowledge of statistical analysis, while the best evaluated were the link of research to the profession and interpretation of results. Although 48.84% reported participating in research activities, only 6.98% had published a scientific article. Conclusions: An overall positive perception of scientific research was found, while the self-assessment of research knowledge and skills was moderately adequate. Gender, age, and professional seniority correlated with the participants' knowledge and skills regarding research.

Objetivo: Descrever os conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes frente à pesquisa científica de estudantes de pós-graduação em Enfermagem em Cuidados Críticos de uma instituição privada da Cidade Autônoma de Buenos Aires no primeiro semestre de 2023. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, transversal e quantitativo. Com amostra intencional de 43 estudantes de pós-graduação em enfermagem. Foram implementados e validados dois instrumentos concebidos para autoavaliação de competências de investigação e avaliação de percepções relativamente ao processo de ensino e aprendizagem de investigação; durante os meses de março a abril de 2023. Foi realizada análise descritiva e inferencial por meio do software Infostat. O consentimento informado foi implementado e nenhum dado de afiliação foi coletado. Resultados: Os entrevistados tinham idade média de 34,14 anos, sendo em sua maioria mulheres, solteiras, sem filhos e com 8,98 anos de experiência profissional. A escassa abordagem da investigação no currículo e os conhecimentos em análise estatística foram as atitudes e competências com pior avaliação; enquanto a ligação da investigação com a profissão e a interpretação dos resultados foram as atitudes e competências mais bem avaliadas. Embora 48,84% tenham relatado ter participado de atividades de pesquisa, apenas 6,98% publicaram um artigo científico. Conclusões: Foi encontrada uma avaliação maioritariamente positiva da investigação científica, enquanto a autoavaliação de conhecimentos e competências de investigação foi medianamente adequada. Sexo, idade e antiguidade profissional apresentaram relação com conhecimentos e habilidades de pesquisa.

Interés en investigación y producción científica de estudiantes de medicina

Introducción: El interés en investigación y la producción científica en educación terciaria se encuentran en constante evolución, pero aún se necesitan mejoras y resolución de limitaciones para que la producción científica no se concentre en el ámbito de postgrado, sino que inicie su ascenso desde el pregrado. Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de interés en investigación y de producción científica de estudiantes de medicina. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal descriptivo. La muestra estuvo constituida por 177 estudiantes de medicina y los datos se recolectaron mediante formularios electrónicos, que contaban con 25 preguntas enfocadas en formación básica e interés en investigación y producción científica. Los datos fueron procesados en el software STATA 14.0. Se utilizaron pruebas Kolmogorov-Smirnov, χ 2 y Wilcoxon, considerando significativos valores de p<0,05. Resultados: Se registraron respuestas de 177 estudiantes de los 6 años de la carrera de medicina, sexo femenino 66,7%, edad promedio 22,2 (1,96) años, procedencia 90% del Departamento de Caaguazú. El 83,1% lee artículos científicos, 80,8% tiene interés en publicar su tesis, 92% tiene interés en dedicarse a la investigación cuando sea profesional, 33,9% ha presentado posters científicos, 7,3% ha hecho presentaciones orales en un congreso y 17,5% ha publicado artículos científicos. Conclusiones: Se evidenció un alto interés en investigación, en discrepancia con las bajas cifras de producción científica. Por ende, se recomienda tomar medidas para fortalecer las aptitudes de los estudiantes en temas de investigación y aumentar la producción científica del cuerpo estudiantil.

Introduction: Interest in research and scientific production in tertiary education are constantly evolving, but improvements and resolution of limitations are still needed so that scientific production is not concentrated in the postgraduate field but begins its ascent from the undergraduate level. Objective: Evaluate the level of interest in research and scientific production of medical students. Material and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 177 medical students and the data were collected through an electronic form, which had 25 questions focused on basic training and interest in research and scientific production. The data were processed in the STATA 14.0 software. Kolmogorov-Smirnov, χ2 and Wilcoxon tests were used, considering significant values of p<0.05. Results: Responses were recorded from 177 students of the 6 years of the medical career, 66.7% female, average age 22.2 (1.96) years, 90% from the department of Caaguazú. 83.1% read scientific articles, 80.8% are interested in publishing their thesis, 92% are interested in dedicating themselves to research when they are professionals, 33.9% have presented scientific posters, 7.3% have made oral presentations at a congress and 17.5% have published scientific articles. Conclusions: There was evidence of a high interest in research, in discrepancy with the low figures of scientific production. Therefore, it is recommended to take measures to strengthen students' skills in research topics and increase the scientific output of the student body.

General aspects of the use of mixed methods for health research. / Aspectos generales del uso de métodos mixtos para investigación en salud.

Traditionally, research has been divided according to its methodology into quantitative and qualitative. Mixed research methodology combines both methods and has established itself as a third approach, allowing to comprehensively address high-complexity research problems. Although there are various definitions of mixed methods research, they all share aspects such as the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data and the integrated interpretation of the results within the same research. This type of research is an important tool to address the complexity of health sciences, allowing the understanding and integration of quantitative data with experience-based aspects. In this way, a broad and deep perspective of health problems is achieved, providing a solution to sanitary policies and services. During the development of mixed methods research, there are key stages where both approaches can be integrated depending on the objectives set by the investigators. Although mixed methods studies may differ widely, general models have been identified to guide the development of a single specific design. These models are classified according to the priority of each approach, the sequence in which each approach will be executed, the level and timing of data integration, and the purpose of integrating the data for the study.

Tradicionalmente la investigación se ha dividido según su metodología en cuantitativa y cualitativa. La metodología mixta de investigación, que combina ambos métodos, se ha consolidado como una tercera vía, permitiendo abordar de forma integral problemas de investigación de alta complejidad. Aunque existen diversas definiciones sobre la investigación con métodos mixtos, todas ellas comparten aspectos como la recolección y análisis de datos tanto cuantitativos como cualitativos, y la interpretación integrada de los resultados dentro de una misma investigación. Este tipo de investigación es una herramienta importante para abordar la complejidad propia del campo de la salud, permitiendo comprender e integrar los datos cuantitativos con aspectos vivenciales y experienciales. Con ello se logra una perspectiva amplia y profunda de los problemas de salud, dando respuesta a las políticas y servicios sanitarios. Durante el desarrollo de una investigación con métodos mixtos, existen etapas clave donde ambos enfoques pueden integrarse dependiendo de los objetivos planteados por los equipos de investigación. Aunque los estudios con métodos mixtos pueden ser muy diferentes, se han identificado modelos generales que guían el desarrollo de un diseño específico a utilizar. Estos modelos se clasifican según la prioridad de cada enfoque, la secuencia en la que se ejecutará cada enfoque, el nivel y momento de integración de los datos y el propósito de esta integración para el estudio en particular.

Aspectos generales del uso de métodos mixtos para investigación en salud / General aspects of the use of mixed methods for health research

Tradicionalmente la investigación se ha dividido según su metodología en cuantitativa y cualitativa. La metodología mixta de investigación, que combina ambos métodos, se ha consolidado como una tercera vía, permitiendo abordar de forma integral problemas de investigación de alta complejidad. Aunque existen diversas definiciones sobre la investigación con métodos mixtos, todas ellas comparten aspectos como la recolección y análisis de datos tanto cuantitativos como cualitativos, y la interpretación integrada de los resultados dentro de una misma investigación. Este tipo de investigación es una herramienta importante para abordar la complejidad propia del campo de la salud, permitiendo comprender e integrar los datos cuantitativos con aspectos vivenciales y experienciales. Con ello se logra una perspectiva amplia y profunda de los problemas de salud, dando respuesta a las políticas y servicios sanitarios. Durante el desarrollo de una investigación con métodos mixtos, existen etapas clave donde ambos enfoques pueden integrarse dependiendo de los objetivos planteados por los equipos de investigación. Aunque los estudios con métodos mixtos pueden ser muy diferentes, se han identificado modelos generales que guían el desarrollo de un diseño específico a utilizar. Estos modelos se clasifican según la prioridad de cada enfoque, la secuencia en la que se ejecutará cada enfoque, el nivel y momento de integración de los datos y el propósito de esta integración para el estudio en particular.

Traditionally, research has been divided according to its methodology into quantitative and qualitative. Mixed research methodology combines both methods and has established itself as a third approach, allowing to comprehensively address high-complexity research problems. Although there are various definitions of mixed methods research, they all share aspects such as the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data and the integrated interpretation of the results within the same research. This type of research is an important tool to address the complexity of health sciences, allowing the understanding and integration of quantitative data with experience-based aspects. In this way, a broad and deep perspective of health problems is achieved, providing a solution to sanitary policies and services. During the development of mixed methods research, there are key stages where both approaches can be integrated depending on the objectives set by the investigators. Although mixed methods studies may differ widely, general models have been identified to guide the development of a single specific design. These models are classified according to the priority of each approach, the sequence in which each approach will be executed, the level and timing of data integration, and the purpose of integrating the data for the study.

Análise textual de temáticas presentes em artigos sobre Saúde Coletiva publicados em um periódico da área de Fonoaudiologia / Textual analysis of topics addressed in articles on Collective Health published in a speech-language-hearing journal / Análisis textual de temas presentes en artículos sobre Salud Colectiva publicados en revista del área de Logopedia

Introdução: Políticas públicas implementadas para a consolidação do SUS forneceram condições concretas para a ampliação e ressignificação da atuação dos profissionais de saúde. Objetivo: Este estudo analisa as principais temáticas abordadas em pesquisas relacionadas à atuação da Fonoaudiologia no campo da Saúde Coletiva, a partir das publicações de um periódico da área, no período de cinco anos. Método: Trata-se de um estudo com abordagem qualitativa, de caráter descritivo e interpretativo, cujos dados foram coletados e organizados pela classificação hierárquica descendente do software IRaMuTeQ®, submetidos à análise lexical e discutidos à luz de políticas e estudos relacionados à área da Saúde Coletiva. Resultados: Inicialmente, foram registrados 50 artigos (entre 2016-2020), que totalizaram 314 segmentos de texto, com 1.1232 ocorrências, classificadas em quatro classes denominadas: Descrição de variáveis presentes nos estudos transversais/epidemiológicos (41,3%); Cenários de práticas fonoaudiológicas e políticas públicas voltadas à promoção da saúde e prevenção de agravos (28,2%); Novas demandas e contextos de atuação fonoaudiológica: estrutura e organização de serviços do SUS (17,0%); e Desafios da formação do fonoaudiólogo (13,5). Conclusão: a utilização do software para o processamento de dados qualitativos sobre pesquisa na área da Fonoaudiologia no campo da Saúde Coletiva propiciou a identificação de classes(,) que apontaram características da população estudada(,) e cenários de práticas deste campo, com destaque a ações voltadas à promoção da saúde e à prevenção de agravos à saúde, e ressaltou a importância de reflexões sobre a formação do fonoaudiólogo para a atenção integral à saúde e enfrentamento de problemas contemporâneos como a violência. (AU)

Introduction: Public policies implemented for the consolidation of the SUS provided concrete conditions for expanding and redefining the role of health professionals. Objective: This study analyzes the main themes addressed in research related to the performance of Speech Therapy in the field of Collective Health, based on publications in a journal in the area, over a period of five years. Method: This is a study with a qualitative approach, with a descriptive and interpretative character, whose data were collected and organized by the descending hierarchical classification of the IRaMuTeQ® software, submitted to lexical analysis and discussed in the light of policies and studies related to Collective Health. Results: Initially, 50 articles were registered (between 2016-2020), which totaled 314 text segments, with 1,1232 occurrences, classified into four classes called: Description of variables present in cross-sectional/epidemiological studies (41.3%); Scenarios of speech therapy practices and public policies aimed at health promotion and disease prevention (28.2%); New demands and contexts for speech therapy: structure and organization of SUS services (17.0%); and Challenges of speech therapist training (13.5). Conclusion: the use of software for processing qualitative data on research in the area of Speech Therapy in the field of Collective Health led to the identification of classes, which pointed out characteristics of the population studied, scenarios of practices in this field, with emphasis on actions aimed at promoting health and the prevention of health problems and emphasized the importance of reflections on the training of speech therapists for comprehensive health care and coping with contemporary problems such as violence. (AU)

Introducción: Las políticas públicas implementadas para la consolidación del SUS proporcionaron condiciones concretas para ampliar y redefinir el papel de los profesionales de la salud. Objetivo: Este estudio analiza los principales temas abordados en investigaciones relacionadas con la actuación de la Logopedia en el campo de la Salud Colectiva, a partir de publicaciones en un periódico del área, en un período de cinco años. Método: Se trata de un estudio con abordaje cualitativo, de carácter descriptivo e interpretativo, cuyos datos fueron recolectados y organizados por la clasificación jerárquica descendente del software IRaMuTeQ®, sometidos a análisis léxico y discutidos a la luz de políticas y estudios relacionados con el Colectivo del Área de la Salud. Resultados: Inicialmente se registraron 50 artículos (entre 2016-2020), que totalizaron 314 segmentos de texto, con 1.232 ocurrencias, clasificados en cuatro clases denominadas: Descripción de variables presentes en estudios transversales/epidemiológicos (41,3%); Escenarios de prácticas logopédicas y políticas públicas dirigidas a la promoción de la salud y prevención de enfermedades (28,2%); Nuevas demandas y contextos para la logopedia: estructura y organización de los servicios del SUS (17,0%); y Desafíos de la formación de logopedas (13.5). Conclusión: el uso de software para el procesamiento de datos cualitativos sobre investigaciones en el área de Logopedia en el campo de la Salud Colectiva permitió la identificación de clases, que señalaron características de la población estudiada, escenarios de prácticas en este campo, con énfasis en las acciones dirigidas a la promoción de la salud y la prevención de los problemas de salud y destacó la importancia de las reflexiones sobre la formación de logopedas para la atención integral de la salud y el enfrentamiento de problemas contemporáneos como la violencia. (AU)

Health Science Research at a Regional Level: Insights From South America Comment on "The Roles of Regional Organisations in Strengthening Health Research Systems in Africa: Activities, Gaps, and Future Perspectives".

The article seeks to shed light on the role of regional organizations in strengthening health research systems in Africa, how they operate and how they work, as well as debts and future challenges. As can be observed also in South America, the continued strengthening of health research requires strategic thinking about the roles, comparative advantages, and capacity of regional organizations to facilitate the flourishing of health research systems. Health research is a strategic field for the transformation of socio-health inequalities on the one hand and the reduction of regional asymmetries on the other. Thus, regional organizations represent key actors in strengthening health research systems and the regional research agenda reinforces its sovereign condition in the autonomous definition of relevant topics and financing. In this process, integration mechanisms face a great challenge, as shown by the recent pandemic, not only in Africa but also in South America.

Ciclos de vida: análise das publicações na revista Distúrbios da Comunicação no período de 2016 a 2020 / Life cycles: analysis of publications in Communication Disorders Journal from 2016 to 2020 / Ciclos de vida: análisis de las publicaciones en la revista Disturbios de la Comunicación de 2016 a 2020

Introdução: ciclo de vida é atualmente considerado elemento essencial à formulação e implantação de políticas públicas pautadas no cuidado integral à saúde. Objetivo: analisar a produção científica da Revista Distúrbios da Comunicação no período de 2016 a 2020, tendo como objeto de discussão as publicações da área da Fonoaudiologia por ciclos de vida. Método: estudo retrospectivo, de abordagem metodológica bibliométrica, analisou 297 artigos considerando as seguintes variáveis: ano de publicação, registro da região geográfica (do primeiro autor), descritores, áreas temáticas, tipo de estudo e tamanho da amostra, segundo faixas etárias (0-6; 7-11; 12-18;19-59 e >60). A análise dos dados foi descritiva, numérica e percentual. Resultados: dos 297, estudos, 258 fizeram referência a uma ou mais faixas etárias e 39 não mencionaram qualquer idade. Dentre os 258, os estudos mais frequentes foram de criança (138; 46,2%), seguido pelos de adultos (122; 41,1%). A amostra variou quanto à mediana entre 27 (adulto) a 38 (crianças: 0-6 anos) sujeitos. A região Sudeste registrou maior número de artigos relacionados a todos os ciclos, assim como os estudos do tipo observacional, com destaque para os realizados com adultos (98; 33,9%). Pouca menção foi feita a descritores que identificam os ciclos de vida (75; 6%), sendo idoso (25; 38%) e criança (23; 35%) os mais registrados. Conclusão: os dados evidenciam a premência de alinhamento das pesquisas às políticas públicas de saúde, bem como ressalta a importância do uso de descritores adequados para maior circulação do conhecimento produzido pela área. (AU)

Introduction: life cycle is currently considered an essential element for the formulation and implementation of public policies based on comprehensive health care. Objective: to analyze the scientific production of Communication Disorders Journal from 2016 to 2020, having as an object of discussion publications in the field of Speech Therapy by life cycles. Method: a retrospective study, with a bibliometric methodological approach, analyzed 297 articles considering the following variables: year of publication, registration of the geographic region (of the first author), descriptors, thematic areas, type of study and sample size, according to age groups (0 -6; 7-11; 12-18; 19-59 and >60). Data analysis was descriptive, numerical and percentage. Results: of the 297 studies, 258 referred to one or more age groups and 39 did not mention any age. Among the 258, the most frequent studies were children (138; 46.2%), followed by adults (122; 41.1%). The sample ranged in terms of median from 27 (adult) to 38 (children: 0-6 years) subjects. The Southeast region recorded the highest number of articles related to all cycles, as well as observational studies, especially those carried out with adults (98; 33.9%). Little mention was made of descriptors that identify life cycles (75; 6%), being elderly (25; 38%) and children (23; 35%) the most registered. Conclusion: the data show the urgency of aligning research with public health policies, as well as highlighting the importance of using appropriate descriptors for greater circulation of knowledge produced by the area. (AU)

Introducción: el ciclo de vida es considerado en la actualidad un elemento esencial para la formulación e implementación de políticas públicas basadas en la atención integral de la salud. Objetivo: analizar la producción científica de la Disturbios de la Comunicación de 2016 a 2020, teniendo como objeto de discusión publicaciones en el campo de la Logopedia por ciclos de vida. Método: estudio retrospectivo, con enfoque metodológico bibliométrico, se analizaron 297 artículos considerando las siguientes variables: año de publicación, registro de la región geográfica (del primer autor), descriptores, áreas temáticas, tipo de estudio y tamaño de la muestra, según grupos de edad (0-6; 7-11; 12-18; 19-59 y >60). El análisis de los datos fue descriptivo, numérico y porcentual. Resultados: de los 297 estudios, 258 se refirieron a uno o más grupos de edad y 39 no mencionaron ninguna edad. Entre los 258, los estudios más frecuentes fueron los niños (138; 46,2%), seguidos de los adultos (122; 41,1%). La muestra osciló en términos de mediana de 27 (adultos) a 38 (niños: 0-6 años) sujetos. La región Sudeste registró el mayor número de artículos relacionados con todos los ciclos, además de estudios observacionales, en especial los realizados con adultos (98; 33,9%). Se hizo poca mención de descriptores que identifican ciclos de vida (75; 6%), siendo ancianos (25; 38%) y niños (23; 35%) los más registrados. Conclusión: los datos muestran la urgencia de alinear la investigación con las políticas públicas de salud, además de resaltar la importancia de utilizar descriptores apropiados para una mayor circulación del conocimiento producido por el área. (AU)

Barriers and Facilitators to Integrating Depression Treatment Within a TB Program and Primary Care in Brazil.

Tuberculosis (TB) and depression is common and is associated with poor TB outcomes. The World Health Organization End TB Strategy explicitly calls for the integration of TB and mental health services. Interpersonal Counseling (IPC) is a brief evidence-based treatment for depression that can be delivered by non-mental health specialists with expert supervision. The goal of this study was to explore potential barriers and facilitators to training non-specialist providers to deliver IPC within the TB Control Program and primary care in Itaboraí, Rio de Janeiro state. Data collection consisted of six focus groups (n = 42) with health professionals (n = 29), program coordinators (n = 7), and persons with TB (n = 6). We used open coding to analyze the data, followed by deductive coding using the Chaudoir multi-level framework for implementation outcomes. The main structural barriers identified were poverty, limited access to treatment, political instability, violence, and social stigma. Organizational barriers included an overburdened and under-resourced health system with high staff turnover. Despite high levels of stress and burnout among health professionals, several provider-level facilitators emerged including a high receptivity to, and demand for, mental health training; strong community relationships through the community health workers; and overall acceptance of IPC delivered by any type of health provider. Patients were also receptive to IPC being delivered by any type of professional. No intervention-specific barriers or facilitators were identified. Despite many challenges, integrating depression treatment into primary care in Itaboraí using IPC was perceived as acceptable, feasible, and desirable.

Prioridades nacionales de investigación en salud bucal, Perú 2022-2026: proceso, experiencias y perspectivas / National priorities for oral health research, Peru 2022-2026: process, experiences and perspectives

El Instituto Nacional de Salud, ha llevado a cabo por primera vez el proceso de identificación de Prioridades Nacionales de Investigación en Salud Bucal a cargo de la Subdirección de Investigación y Laboratorios de Enfermedades No Transmisibles del Centro Nacional de Salud Pública con la asesoría técnica de la Dirección de Investigación e Innovación en Salud y en coordinación con la Dirección Ejecutiva de Salud Bucal de la Dirección General de Intervenciones Estratégicas en Salud Pública del Ministerio de Salud mediante metodología participativa de tres actores claves: investigadores/especialistas, expertos y decisores. El objetivo de este artículo es describir el proceso seguido para la identificación de estas prioridades, el cual comprendió cinco fases: i) identificación de objetivos estratégicos del MINSA, ii) identificación de necesidades de investigación en salud bucal, iii) revisión por expertos y valoración de las necesidades según criterios, iv) priorización (valoración de la lista de prioridades según calificación) y v) presentación de las prioridades. Como resultado se obtuvieron las 12 prioridades que posteriormente fueron aprobadas por Resolución Ministerial N.° 262-2022/MINSA, con un periodo de vigencia 2022-2026. Además, se brindaron recomendaciones para futuros procesos.

The National Institute of Health has, for the first time, identified National Priorities for Oral Health Research, this process was carried out by the Subdirectorate of Research and Laboratories of Noncommunicable Diseases of the National Center for Public Health with the technical advice of the Directorate of Research and Innovation in Health and in coordination with the Executive Directorate of Oral Health of the General Directorate of Strategic Interventions in Public Health of the Ministry of Health, using a participatory methodology with three key actors: researchers/specialists, experts and decision-makers. This article aims to describe the process used to identify these priorities, which consisted of five phases: i) identification of the strategic objectives of the Ministry of Health, ii) identification of needs in oral health research, iii) review by experts and assessment of needs according to criteria and v) presentation of the priorities. As a result, 12 priorities were obtained, which were subsequently approved by Ministerial Resolution No. 262-2022/MINSA, for a period of 2022-2026. In addition, we provide recommendations for future processes.