Machine Learning and Gene Editing at the Helm of a Societal Evolution.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology, whilst in its infancy, presents significant opportunities and risks, and proactive policy is needed to manage these emerging technologies. Whilst AI continues to have significant and broad impact, its relevance and complexity magnify when integrated with other emerging technologies. The confluence of Machine Learning (ML), a subset of AI, with gene editing (GE) in particular can foster substantial benefits as well as daunting risks that range from ethics to national security. These complex technologies have implications for multiple sectors, ranging from agriculture and medicine to economic competition and national security. Consideration of technology advancements and policies in different geographic regions, and involvement of multiple organisations further confound this complexity. As the impact of ML and GE expands, forward looking policy is needed to mitigate risks and leverage opportunities. Thus, this study explores the technological and policy implications of the intersection of ML and GE, with a focus on the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), China, and the European Union (EU). Analysis of technical and policy developments over time and an assessment of their current state have informed policy recommendations that can help manage beneficial use of technology advancements and their convergence, which can be applied to other sectors. This study is intended for policymakers to prompt reflection on how to best approach the convergence of the two technologies. Technical practitioners may also find it valuable as a resource to consider the type of information and policy stakeholders engage with.

Patentes, acesso e produção local de medicamentos: reflexões a partir de experiências no SUS / Patents, access, and local production of medicines: reflections from experiences in the SUS

Resumo Este artigo procurou contribuir para a literatura e para o debate nacional e global sobre a superação de uma polarização relacionada ao aspecto jurídico e administrativo do processo de inovação, procurando se concentrar nas patentes como um fator condicionante das trajetórias tecnológicas que viabilizam o aprendizado em âmbito produtivo. Baseou-se em um arcabouço teórico e político relacionado à inovação e ao acesso a medicamentos, especialmente quanto aos direitos de Propriedade Intelectual, e na análise crítico-reflexiva de instrumentos de Propriedade Intelectual utilizados em Parcerias para o Desenvolvimento Produtivo (PDP), desenvolvidas por um instituto de tecnologia em fármacos sintéticos, público e nacional. Os resultados demonstram a relevância da compatibilização dos direitos de patentes com a construção de uma capacidade tecnológica e de inovação no país, vinculada ao acesso universal, especialmente quando envolverem produtos que se destinam ao tratamento de doenças graves, de alta complexidade tecnológica e de alto custo. Conclui-se que, para superação da dependência tecnológica e ampliação do acesso a medicamentos no Brasil, o Estado deve buscar o equilíbrio entre os interesses públicos e privados na área da saúde, a articulação entre os instrumentos jurídicos legais existentes e o alinhamento entre suas políticas de saúde, industriais, de CT&I e Propriedade intelectual.

Abstract This article aims to contribute to the literature and to the national and global debate on overcoming the polarization related to the legal and administrative aspect of the innovation process, seeking to focus on patents as a conditioning factor of the technological trajectories that enable learning in the productive scope. It was based on a theoretical and political framework related to innovation and access to medicines, especially regarding Intellectual Property rights, and on a critical-reflexive analysis of Intellectual Property instruments used in Productive Development Partnerships (PDP), developed by a public national institute for synthetic drug technology. The results demonstrate the importance of making patent rights compatible with the construction of technological and innovation capacities in the country, which are linked to universal access, especially when they involve products that are intended to treat serious, technologically complex and high-cost diseases. In conclusion, to overcome technological dependence and expand access to medicines in Brazil, the State must seek a balance between public and private interests in the healthcare area, articulate the existing legal instruments and align its health, industry, ST&I and intellectual property policies.

Estratégias de inovação em medicamentos e vacinas no âmbito do Ceis - modelos, mecanismos e expectativas / Innovation strategies in medicines and vaccines within the scope of CEIS - models, mechanisms, and expectations

RESUMO O artigo objetivou apresentar informações relevantes e originais sobre as estratégias de inovação utilizadas por Laboratórios Farmacêuticos Oficiais (LFO) para redução das vulnerabilidades do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) e capacitação produtiva e tecnológica do Complexo Econômico-Industrial da Saúde. Como métodos, foram utilizadas a revisão da literatura e a análise de dados primários oriundos de entrevistas realizadas em dois dos maiores LFO do País. Foram identificados e analisados os seus esforços e resultados em Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento (P&D) assim como a incorporação de tecnologias de medicamentos e vacinas, com destaque para as Parcerias para Desenvolvimento Produtivo (PDP). Conclui-se que, apesar de as atividades de P&D ainda precisarem avançar, benefícios foram trazidos pelos acordos de transferência de tecnologia, especialmente pelas PDP. No entanto, a capacidade industrial e tecnológica dos Institutos ainda é limitada e carente de investimentos, dificultando a acumulação e a difusão tecnológica. Dessa forma, melhorias são necessárias para que as estratégias de inovação para o SUS apresentem resultados mais efetivos e possam ser revertidos para o bem-estar da sociedade.

ABSTRACT The article aimed to present relevant and original information about the innovation strategies used by Official Pharmaceutical Laboratories (LFO) to reduce the vulnerabilities of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) and the productive and technological capacity of the Health Economic-Industrial Complex. The methods used included a literature review and the analysis of primary data from interviews conducted in two of the largest LFOs in the country. Their efforts and results in Research and Development (R&D) and incorporation of medicines and vaccine technologies were identified and analyzed, with emphasis on Productive Development Partnerships (PDP). Although R&D activities still need to advance, benefits were brought about by technology transfer agreements, especially by PDPs. However, the industrial and technological capacity of the Institutes is still limited and lacks investments, which hinders technological accumulation and diffusion. Thus, improvements are necessary so that the innovation strategies for the SUS present more effective results and can be reversed to the welfare of society.

A "fractal" expander-compressor-supplier formative research method on array processing.

In the present research the typical triangle on formative research was extended to a double triangle for an overall career programme (here expander/ compressor) and funnel proposal was explored in a single course (as a "fractal" method). Array processing and ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) techniques have been incorporated into a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) course and research projects. The present research question was: is it possible to insert array sensing on formative research in an undergraduate course of DSP? From over eight years, two semesters with different homework loads (homogeneous triangle vs expander-compressor-supplier distributions) were analysed in detail within the DSP evaluations and students chose between experimental applied analysis and a formative research project. Results showed that cognitive load was influenced positively in the expander-compressor-supplier distribution, showing that an increase of the efficiency undertook more undergraduate research on array processing and the decrease of the number of formative applied projects. Over a longer term (48 months) students undertook more undergraduate research works on array processing and DSP techniques. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10639-023-11837-y.

Producción científica sobre traumatismo craneoencefálico en revistas estudiantiles cubanas. Enero de 2015-junio de 2021

Introducción: los traumatismos craneoencefálicos son un reto para los servicios de salud. Recibir desde pregrado una formación en su atención constituye una necesidad. Objetivo: caracterizar la producción científica sobre traumatismo craneoencefálico, publicada en revistas estudiantiles cubanas entre enero de 2015 y junio de 2021. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio bibliométrico, descriptivo y retrospectivo. El universo estuvo constituido por nueve artículos, de los que se analizó tipología, año de publicación, cantidad de autores, provincia y centro de procedencia de los mismos, cantidad de referencias, cantidad de artículos por revista y número de veces citados. Resultados: el 77,8 % de los artículos fueron originales, y 2020 fue el año más productivo (55,6 %). El 44,4 % de los artículos fue firmado por cinco autores; el 32,4 % de los autores pertenecían a la provincia de Pinar del Río. La media de referencias por artículos fue de 19,9; el Índice de Price se encontró entre 0,45 y 0,82, con una media de 0,75. El 55,6 % de las publicaciones aparecieron en la revista Universidad Médica Pinareña, cuyos artículos también fueron los más citados (85 %). Conclusiones: la producción científica estudiantil sobre trauma craneoencefálico es baja, y la influencia y visibilidad de los artículos disponibles, atendiendo a la cantidad de citas, es pequeña.

Introduction: crania-encephalic traumas are a challenge for health services. Receiving training on their care since undergraduate studies is a necessity. Objective: to characterize the scientific production on crania-encephalic trauma published in Cuban student journals between January 2015 and June 2021. Materials and methods: a bibliometric, descriptive and retrospective study was carried out. The universe was constituted by 9 articles, of which typology, year of publication, quantity of authors, province and centers of origin, quantity of references; quantity of articles per journal and number of times cited were analyzed. Results: 77.8% of the articles were originals, and 2020 was the most productive year (55.6%). 44% of the articles were signed by five authors; 32.4% of the authors belonged to the province of Pinar del Rio. The average number of references per articles was 19.9; the Price Index was found between 0.45 and 0.85, with an average of 0.75. 55.6% of the publications appeared in the journal Universidad Médica Pinareña, the articles of which were also the most cited ones (85%). Conclusions: the student scientific production on crania-encephalic trauma is low, and the influence and visibility of the available articles, taking into account the quantity of cites, is small.

Retrocessos no financiamento da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação no Brasil: o caso do CNPq / Setbacks in the Science, Technology and Innovation financing in Brazil: the CNPq case

Resumo: O artigo analisa o financiamento do Programa de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação do CNPq, entre os anos de 2013 e 2021, evidenciando a direção dos recursos e as prioridades assumidas antes e após a Emenda Constitucional 95/2016. É uma pesquisa documental, de abordagem quantitativa e análise estatística descritiva. Evidenciamos tendência decrescente dos gastos - em 2021 correspondeu a 43% do gasto de 2013. A redução de recursos para a ciência impede o Brasil de avançar na produção de conhecimentos.

Abstract: The article analyzes the financing of the Science, Technology and Innovation Program of CNPq, between the years 2013 and 2021, showing the direction of resources and the priorities assumed before and after the Constitutional Amendment 95/2016. It is a documentary research, with a quantitative approach and descriptive statistical analysis. We evidence a decreasing trend in spending - in 2021 it corresponded to 43% of spending in 2013. The reduction of resources for science prevents Brazil from advancing in the production of knowledge.

Conocimientos sobre la perspectiva Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad del personal administrativo docente para la gestión de procesos universitarios

Introducción: El personal administrativo con una visión de Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad puede influir en las funciones universitarias con un enfoque social de la formación, investigación y extensión. Objetivo: Diagnosticar el nivel de conocimientos sobre la perspectiva Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad del personal administrativo docente de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo durante el año 2022 en dicha universidad donde la población estuvo conformada por 52 administrativos en funciones docentes (N=52). Se seleccionó una muestra de 34 por muestreo simple aleatorio (n=34). Se aplicó un cuestionario validado como método empírico para la recolección de la información. Se establecieron escalas de medición para variables cuantitativas. Resultados: El diagnóstico reveló un bajo nivel de conocimientos sobre las definiciones de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación (85 %, 69 % y 44 %, respectivamente). La mayoría del personal administrativo docente no reconoció los modelos que designan las relaciones Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad y consideró que no se posiciona la universidad médica como actor relevante para el desarrollo local (53 %). El 41 % refirió que casi siempre aparece la perspectiva Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad en los documentos normativos de los ministerios de Educación Superior y Salud Pública. Conclusiones: Se aportan evidencias sobre insuficiencias en los conocimientos por el personal administrativo docente sobre Ciencia, Tecnología y Sociedad y su uso en la gestión de los procesos universitarios. Se recomienda diseñar acciones de superación sobre la temática.

Introduction: Administrative personnel with a vision on Science, Technology and Society can influence universities functions through a social approach, the training, research and, extension process. Objective: To diagnose the level of knowledge on the Science, Technology and Society perspective of the administrative teaching personnel of the Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Ciego de Avila, Cuba. Method: A descriptive observational study was carried out in 2022 at the aforementioned university, where the population study consisted of 52 administrative personnel in teaching functions (N=52). A sample of 34 was selected by simple random sampling (n=34). A validated questionnaire was applied as an empirical method for data collection. Measurement scales were established for quantitative variables. Results: The diagnosis revealed a low level of knowledge on Science, Technology and Innovation definitions (85%, 69% and 44%, respectively). Most of the teaching and administrative personnel (53%) did not recognize the models that revealed the relationships between Science, Technology and Society and have in consideration that the University of Medicine is not positioned as a relevant actor in the local development. Forty-one percent reported that the Science, Technology and Society perspective almost always appears in the normative documents of the Ministerios de Educación Superior y de Salud Pública. Conclusions: There is evidence of insufficient knowledge on Science, Technology and Society and its use in the process management at universities. It is recommended to design related improvement actions on the subject.

Introdução: O pessoal administrativo com visão de Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade pode influenciar as funções universitárias com enfoque social na formação, pesquisa e extensão. Objetivo: Diagnosticar o nível de conhecimento sobre a perspectiva de Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade do pessoal docente administrativo da Universidade de Ciências Médicas de Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. Método: Estudo observacional descritivo realizado durante o ano de 2022 na referida universidade onde a população foi constituída por 52 funcionários administrativos em funções docentes (N=52). Uma amostra de 34 foi selecionada por amostragem aleatória simples (n=34). Um questionário validado foi aplicado como método empírico para a coleta de informações. Escalas de medida foram estabelecidas para variáveis quantitativas. Resultados: O diagnóstico revelou baixo nível de conhecimento sobre as definições de Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (85%, 69% e 44%, respectivamente). A maioria dos docentes administrativos não reconheceu os modelos que designam as relações Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade e considerou que a universidade médica não se posiciona como ator relevante para o desenvolvimento local (53%). 41% relataram que a perspectiva de Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade quase sempre aparece nos documentos normativos dos Ministérios da Educação Superior e da Saúde Pública. Conclusões: Evidenciam-se as insuficiências de conhecimento do pessoal administrativo docente sobre Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade e a sua utilização na gestão dos processos universitários. Recomenda-se projetar ações de melhoria sobre o assunto.

Principios FAIR de gestión de datos de investigación en ciencias de la salud

Introducción: Los datos abiertos para la validación y generalización de los resultados de investigación, así como el reciclaje de sets de datos constituye una sentida necesidad en la asistencia médica. Objetivo: Describir los principios FAIR de gestión de datos de investigación. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda de información en las bases de datos Scopus, SciELO, Redalyc y PubMed/MedLine mediante una fórmula con el uso combinado de términos y operadores booleanos. Se emplearon los términos "Datos abiertos", "datos de investigación", "FAIR". Desarrollo: Los datos abiertos representan un avance en las ciencias de la información, y en el campo de la salud han alcanzado progresos en la última década. No basta solo con producir y compartir datos, estos deben cumplir un conjunto de principios para su digitalización, reproducibilidad y reciclaje. Los FAIR buscan lograr sets de datos localizables, accesibles, interoperables y reutilizables, así como la eliminación de barreras culturales, socioeconómicas y técnicas. Su aplicación en las ciencias de la salud permite un mejor uso de los recursos al evitar la replicación de investigaciones con resultados negativos, concede la reutilización de datos y la generalización de resultados mediante la combinación de los mismos. Conclusiones: Los principios FAIR buscan fortalecer la ciencia abierta, eliminar barreras, desarrollar infraestructuras, protocolos y políticas de datos. Su aplicación en las ciencias de la salud es de gran valor, por constituir una poderosa herramienta para mejorar las prácticas investigativas y asistenciales.

Introduction: Open data for the validation and generalization of research results as well as the recycling of datasets is a felt need in healthcare. Objective: to describe the FAIR principles for research data management. Method: A search in the Scopus, SciELO, Redalyc and PubMed/MedLine databases for gathering information was carried out applying a formula with the combined use of terms and Boolean operators. The terms "Open data", "research data", and "FAIR" were used. Development: Open data mean a breakthrough in information sciences, and even in health field has made progress in the last decade. It is not enough just to produce and share data, they must comply a set of principles for digitalizing, reproducing and recycling. FAIR data seek to achieve findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable datasets, as well as the elimination of cultural, socioeconomic and technical barriers. The FAIR principles application in health sciences allows a better use of resources avoiding the replication of research with negative results, granting the reuse of data and the generalization of results by combining them. Conclusions: The FAIR principles seek to strengthen open science, eliminate barriers, for developing infrastructures, protocols and data policies. The application in health sciences is of great value, as constitute a powerful tool for improving research and care practices.

Introdução: Dados abertos para validação e generalização de resultados de pesquisas, bem como a reciclagem de conjuntos de dados, constituem uma necessidade sentida na assistência médica. Objetivo: Descrever os princípios FAIR de gerenciamento de dados de pesquisa. Método: Foi realizada busca de informações nas bases de dados Scopus, SciELO, Redalyc e PubMed/MedLine por meio de uma fórmula com o uso combinado de termos e operadores booleanos. Foram utilizados os termos "Open data", "research data", "FAIR". Desenvolvimento: Os dados abertos representam um avanço nas ciências da informação, e na área da saúde tiveram avanços na última década. Não basta apenas produzir e partilhar dados, estes devem obedecer a um conjunto de princípios para a sua digitalização, reprodutibilidade e reciclagem. As FAIR buscam obter conjuntos de dados localizáveis, acessíveis, interoperáveis e reutilizáveis, bem como a remoção de barreiras culturais, socioeconômicas e técnicas. Sua aplicação nas ciências da saúde permite um melhor aproveitamento dos recursos ao evitar a replicação de pesquisas com resultados negativos, possibilita o reaproveitamento de dados e a generalização dos resultados por meio de sua combinação. Conclusões: Os princípios FAIR buscam fortalecer a ciência aberta, eliminar barreiras, desenvolver infraestruturas, protocolos e políticas de dados. Sua aplicação nas ciências da saúde é de grande valia, pois constitui uma poderosa ferramenta para aprimorar as práticas de pesquisa e assistência.

Assessing the Impact of Developments in Genetic Testing on Insurers' Risk Exposure.

Predictive genetic testing provides individuals with information about their future risk of developing health conditions. Theoretically, predictive genetic tests could have positive or negative impacts on the insurance industry. If genetic test results stimulate actions to reduce health risks, they may reduce costs to insurers. If disclosed to insurers, such information may allow them to better understand individual- and population-level risks and make insurance more affordable. However, if individuals who know they are at high genetic risk of becoming ill or dying are more likely to apply for insurance than those not at high risk, this may lead to an unanticipated increase in claims. It may be exacerbated if people at low genetic risk are less likely to apply for insurance compared to the general population. If this happened on a large scale it could make the insurance market unsustainable. Determining whether a genetic test could affect the insurance industry is complex and needs to be evaluated on a per-test basis. The Cambridge Centre for Health Services Research, a collaboration between RAND Europe and the University of Cambridge, developed a framework for evaluating the potential impacts on the UK insurance industry arising from predictive genetic tests. It considers the characteristics of genetic tests and behavioural aspects that influence their uptake. It is intended to provide a transparent approach for evaluating whether a specific condition for which a test is available could impact the insurance industry, currently or in the future, and understanding the key factors that influence this.

Evolución de la producción científica sobre Servicios de Atención de Salud a Domicilio: análisis bibliométrico MEDLINE versus EMBASE / Evolution of the scientific production on Home Care Services: bibliometric analysis MEDLINE versus EMBASE

Objetivo: Analizar la evolución de la producción científica sobre Servicios de Atención de Salud a Domicilio indizada en las bases de datos bibliográficas MEDLINE y Embase.Método:Estudio descriptivo transversal. Los datos se obtuvieron de las bases de datos MEDLIEN y Embase, interrogando mediante los descriptores “Home Care Services” y “Home Care” según la base a interrogar. El periodo estudiado fue desde el inicio de la indización en esta base de datos hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2021.Resultados:Se comprobó un modelo de regresión con muy buen ajuste al lineal creciente, siendo el coeficiente de determinación R2 = 0,91 (p < 0,001). Las tendencias observadas fueron para MEDLINE R2 = 0,94 y para Embase R2 = 0,85. La obsolescencia ofreció en MEDLINE un semiperiodo de Burton-Kebler (B-K) igual a 19 años y en Embase de 12 años. El Índice de Price fue en MEDLINE del 13,71% y en Embase del 23,68%. Se observó asociación significativa directa en la relación Embase versus MEDLINE (1 versus 0,83; p < 0,001).Conclusiones:La producción científica presentó un adecuado incremento lineal sin alcanzar el modelo exponencial. Si bien, los resultados sobre obsolescencia fueron superiores a lo esperado. La relación de la producción científica entre las dos bases demostró asociación directa significativa. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the evolution of the scientific production on Home Health Care Services indexed in the MEDLINE and Embase bibliographic databases.Method:Cross-sectional descriptive study. The data was obtained from the MEDLIEN and Embase databases, interrogating using the descriptors “Home Care Services” and “Home Care” according to the database interrogated. The period studied was from the start of indexing in this database until December 31, 2021.Results:A regression model with a very good fit to the increasing linear was verified, with the coefficient of determination R2 = 0.91 (p < 0.001). The trends observed were for MEDLINE R2 = 0.94 and for Embase R2 = 0.85. Obsolescence offered a Burton-Kebler (B-K) half-period equal to 19 years in MEDLINE and 12 years in Embase. The Price Index was 13.71% in MEDLINE and 23.68% in Embase. A direct significant association was observed in the Embase versus MEDLINE relationship (1 versus 0.83, p < 0.001).Conclusions:The scientific production presented an adequate linear increase without reaching the exponential model. Although, the results on obsolescence were higher than expected. The relationship of scientific production between the two bases showed a significant direct association. (AU)

Estudo histórico da produção científica do Programa Pesquisa para o SUS (PPSUS) no Paraná / Evaluation of Scientific Production carried out by the Paraná State Research Program for Brazil's Unified Healthcare System, PPSUS

Avaliação histórica da produção científica do Programa Pesquisa para o Sistema Único de Saúde: Gestão Compartilhada em Saúde executados no Paraná entre 2004 e 2016. Estudo de caráter descritivo, a partir da análise documental de 262 relatórios técnicos, por meio de Análise Exploratória de Dados. Em quase duas décadas, o Estado investiu R$ 16.970.645 em projetos de pesquisa em saúde. Possibilitou a formação e qualificação de 22 pós-doutores, 111 doutores e 274 mestres, a produção de 61 Trabalhos de Conclusão de Curso de Especialização, 236 de Conclusão de Curso de Graduação e 612 Projetos de Iniciação Científica. Tornou possível a publicação de 1.431 resumos em anais, 03 livros, 35 capítulos de livros, 568 artigos científico e o depósito de 08 patentes registradas. 90,80% dos projetos foram totalmente executados, 9,20% parcialmente e 6,90% tiveram aplicabilidade. Essa ação supõe um novo olhar retrospectivo e avaliativo dos projetos que não apresentaram aplicabilidade.

Evaluation of Scientific production by Brazil's Unified Health System Research Program: Shared Health Management, carried out in Paraná from 2004 to 2016. A descriptive study, based on exploratory statistical analysis of 262 technical reports. The State of Paraná has invested BRL 16,970,645 in health research projects over the course of nearly two decades, funding which made possible the training and qualification of 22 post-doctoral, 111 doctoral and 274 masters-degree candidates, production of 61 Specialization Course Graduation Papers, 236 Undergraduate Degree Papers and 612 Initial Research Projects. The funding resulted in publication of three books, 35 book chapters and 1431 abstracts in the various fields, in addition to 568 scientific articles and filings for eight patents. Of these projects, 90.80% were fully completed, 9.20% partially fulfilled and another 6.90% found some application. Our current paper is a novel and evaluative re-examination of projects that were not deemed applicable.

Análisis de la producción científica internacional sobre cuidados paliativos: estudio bibliométrico sobre la base de datos bibliográfica Scopus / Analysis of international scientific production on palliative care: bibliometric study on the Scopus bibliographic database

Objetivo: analizar la producción científica internacional sobre cuidados paliativos tomando como fuente de obtención de los datos la base de datos bibliográfica Scopus.Método:Estudio descriptivo transversal. Los datos se obtuvieron de la base de datos Scopus, interrogando mediante el término “Palliative Care” en los campos de título, resumen y palabras clave. El periodo estudiado fue desde el inicio de la indización en esta base de datos hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2021.Resultados:Evolución de la producción científica creciente (R2 = 0,75). El número de originales fue de 55376 (69,73%), siendo la frecuencia y porcentaje de los artículos citables 66781 (84,09%). La obsolescencia fue de 37 ± 2,52 años con Índice de Price del 6,67%. El idioma de publicación predominante fue el inglés, en 66539 (83,79%) referencias y el país más productor Estados Unidos de América 22482 (28,31%) documentos.Conclusiones:Los indicadores métricos obtenidos estuvieron en línea con otras áreas de conocimiento relacionadas con las ciencias de la salud. Si bien, los resultados sobre obsolescencia fueron superiores a lo esperado. La producción científica presentó un adecuado incremento lineal sin alcanzar el modelo exponencial. El predominio del idioma inglés y de las publicaciones mainstream confirman la tendencia a publicar en las revistas con mayores indicadores de impacto. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the international scientific production on palliative care using the Scopus database as the source for obtaining the data.Method:Cross-sectional descriptive study. The data was obtained from the Scopus database, using the term “Palliative care” in the title, abstract and keyword fields. The period studied was from the beginning of indexing in this database until December 31, 2021.Results:Evolution of growing scientific production (R2 = 0.75). The number of originals was 55,376 (69.73%), with the frequency and percentage of citable articles being 66,781 (84.09%). Obsolescence was 37 ± 2.52 years with a Price Index of 6.67%. The predominant language of publication was English, in 66,539 (83.79%) references and the most producing country, the United States of America, 22,482 (28.31%) documents.Conclusions:The metric indicators obtained were in line with other areas of knowledge related to health sciences. Although, the results on obsolescence were higher than expected. The scientific production presented an adequate linear increase without reaching the exponential model. The predominance of the English language and mainstream publications confirm the tendency to publish in the journals with the highest impact indicators. (AU)

Perspectives on Gender in Science, Technology, and Innovation: A Review of Sub-Saharan Africa's Science Granting Councils and Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Africa's focus on science, technology, and innovation (STI) has grown over the last decade, with emerging examples of good practice. There are however numerous challenges to sustainable development in Africa; for example, inequalities within and among African countries are rising and enormous disparities of opportunity, wealth, and power persist. While policy makers and organizations have put increasing emphasis on integrating gender into STI policies and initiatives as a means to achieve gender equality for all women and girls, inequality remains a key challenge to continental sustainable development. STI funders such as the Science Granting Councils (SGCs) in Africa are key players in national innovation systems. They advise and facilitate policy and program development, disburse funds, build research capacity, set and monitor research agendas, manage bilateral and multilateral STI agreements, and assess the communication, uptake, and impact of research. They, therefore, have a major role to play in enabling countries to achieve SDG5. This study assessed the current actions in gender mainstreaming across the SGCs and the status of gender research and collaboration in participating countries. Our findings provide evidence of uneven progress in promoting gender equality in the operations of the SGCs, including funding research and promoting the integration of gender dimensions in research content and curricula. All SGCs emphasized national commitments to gender, and the importance of gender in STI, but acknowledged that at the structural and institutional levels there was a misalignment between policy and practice. As expected, more men than women were employed across most levels at the SGCs and held positions of seniority and decision making. Most of the SGCs had very limited or no gender-related funding programs to promote gender and STI or to eliminate the barriers that women scholars face. This resulted in persistent inequalities in who received funding, the size of the grants they received, and in the knowledge production, collaboration, and the impact on their country's gender-related research. These findings suggest that SGCs need to strengthen their actions to mainstream gender if they are to achieve success with SDG5.

Pooled dataset on entrepreneurial characteristics of undergraduates in selected universities in Nigeria.

This pooled dataset presents data collected through four (4) sequential cross-sectional surveys of undergraduates in six (6) selected Nigerian universities. The data were collected from a total of 12,615 undergraduates studying courses in the social sciences, sciences and engineering disciplines. The surveys assessed entrepreneurship interest, background and experience of the respondents. The dataset is useful for research, policy and practice in several ways. Coming from surveys repeated at intervals of between four and five years, the dataset allows for an assessment of the impacts of the compulsory entrepreneurship training that was introduced in the Nigerian university system at about the time of the first survey. It can also be used to quantify the potential pool of future entrepreneurs among the highly educated Nigerian youth. Additionally, the dataset presents a full entrepreneurship profile of a very large pooled cross-sectional sample of educated young people in the largest and most populous nation in sub-Saharan Africa. Consequently, researchers, policymakers, donors and other development practitioners seeking to characterize and design appropriate interventions for youths in the developing world will find this dataset valuable.

Superación profesional sobre el sistema de ciencia e innovación tecnológica para directivos de salud / Professional improvement on the science and technological innovation system for health managers

RESUMEN Fundamento: la preparación de directivos y funcionarios sobre el sistema de ciencia e innovación tecnológica resulta primordial para la toma de decisiones. Objetivo: diseñar talleres sobre el sistema de ciencia e innovación tecnológica en salud dirigidos a directivos y funcionarios. Métodos: se realizó un estudio de desarrollo en la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de Sagua la Grande durante el periodo comprendido entre el 2020-2021. Se aplicaron métodos teóricos, empíricos y matemáticos. La recogida de la información se realizó a través de un cuestionario con el objetivo de caracterizar a los directivos y funcionarios e identificar el nivel de preparación sobre el tema. Los datos se procesaron mediante la estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados: se constató que el nivel de preparación sobre el sistema de ciencia e innovación tecnológica de los directivos y funcionarios de más experiencia laboral es adecuado, mientras que en el resto, quienes constituyen la mayoría, es medianamente adecuado. Se diseñaron talleres para suplir las deficiencias referentes al tema de estudio, sobre los diferentes subsistemas del Sistema de Ciencia e Innovación Tecnológica. Conclusiones: los talleres diseñados resultaron adecuados en el contexto actual cuando se hace indispensable la preparación de los directivos para la toma de decisiones a partir de los resultados científicos obtenidos y la búsqueda de soluciones a problemas que se presentan en el sector de la salud.

ABSTRACT Background: the preparation of managers and officials on the science and technological innovation system is essential for decision making. Objective: to design workshops on the system of science and technological innovation in health aimed at managers and officials. Methods: a development study was carried out at the Faculty of Medical Sciences of Sagua la Grande from 2020 to 2021. Theoretical, empirical and mathematical methods were applied. The information was collected through a questionnaire with the aim of characterizing managers and officials and identifying the level of preparation on the subject. The data was processed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: it was found that the level of preparation on the science and technological innovation system of managers and officials with more work experience is adequate, while the rest, who constitute the majority, is moderately adequate. Workshops were designed to fill the gaps related to the subject of study, on the different subsystems of the System of Science and Technological Innovation. Conclusions: the workshops designed were adequate in the current context when it is essential to prepare managers for decision-making based on the scientific results obtained and the search for solutions to problems that arise in the health branch.

Governance of health research in four eastern and southern African countries.

BACKGROUND: Health research governance is an essential function of national health research systems. Yet many African countries have not developed strong health research governance structures and processes. This paper presents a comparative analysis of national health research governance in Botswana, Kenya, Uganda and Zambia, where health sciences research production is well established relative to some others in the region and continues to grow. The paper aims to examine progress made and challenges faced in strengthening health research governance in these countries. METHODS: We collected data through document review and key informant interviews with a total of 80 participants including decision-makers, researchers and funders across stakeholder institutions in the four countries. Data on health research governance were thematically coded for policies, legislation, regulation and institutions and analysed comparatively across the four national health research systems. RESULTS: All countries were found to be moving from using a research governance framework set by national science, technology and innovation policies to one that is more anchored in health research structures and policies within the health sectors. Kenya and Zambia have adopted health research legislation and policies, while Botswana and Uganda are in the process of developing the same. National-level health research coordination and regulation is hampered by inadequate financial and human resource capacities, which present challenges for building strong health research governance institutions. CONCLUSION: Building health research governance as a key pillar of national health research systems involves developing stronger governance institutions, strengthening health research legislation, increasing financing for governance processes and improving human resource capacity in health research governance and management.

'Capacity for what? Capacity for whom?' A decolonial deconstruction of research capacity development practices in the Global South and a proposal for a value-centred approach.

Whilst North to South knowledge transfer patterns have been extensively problematised by Southern and decolonial perspectives, there is very little reflection on the practice of research capacity development (RCD), still strongly focused on technoscientific solutionism, yet largely uncritical of its underlying normative directions and power asymmetries. Without making transparent these normative and epistemological dimensions, RCD practices will continue to perpetuate approaches that are likely to be narrow, technocratic and unreflexive of colonial legacies, thus failing to achieve the aims of RCD, namely, the equitable and development-oriented production of knowledge in low- and middle-income societies. Informed by the authors' direct experience of RCD approaches and combining insights from decolonial works and other perspectives from the margins with Science and Technology Studies, the paper undertakes a normative and epistemological deconstruction of RCD mainstream practice. Highlighting asymmetries of power and material resources in knowledge production, the paper's decolonial lens seeks to aid the planning, implementation and evaluation of RCD interventions. Principles of cognitive justice and epistemic pluralism, accessibility enabled by systems thinking and sustainability grounded on localisation are suggested as the building blocks for more reflexive and equitable policies that promote research capacity for the purpose of creating social value and not solely for the sake of perpetuating technoscience.

Vulnerabilidades das indústrias nacionais de medicamentos e produtos biotecnológicos no contexto da pandemia de COVID-19 / Vulnerabilities of Brazil's domestic pharmaceutical and biotech industry in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic / Vulnerabilidades de las industrias nacionales de medicamentos y productos biotecnológicos en el contexto de la pandemia de COVID-19

Resumo: Em tempos de pandemia, a vulnerabilidade econômica, tecnológica e dos sistemas de saúde fica ainda mais exposta. No Brasil, os maiores desafios são o controle do déficit da balança comercial e a dificuldade de acesso a medicamentos e produtos da saúde ou até mesmo de seu desenvolvimento. A forte dependência externa de insumos e produtos para a saúde é um dos fatores negativos do país no enfrentamento da emergência sanitária mundial ocasionada pelo novo coronavírus SARS-CoV-2. Nesse contexto, o artigo procurou discutir as vulnerabilidades do subsistema de base química e biotecnológica nacional diante da atual pandemia, tendo como foco a indústria de medicamentos e de produtos biotecnológicos e a articulação entre os campos da saúde e da economia política. Realizou-se pesquisa qualitativa, utilizando, como procedimentos metodológicos, revisão bibliográfica e análise de dados secundários. Os resultados encontrados, relacionados a baixo investimento em saúde pública, baixa capacidade de inovação, perfil da indústria farmacêutica, dependência externa, política cambial, patentes, entre outros, demonstram a grande fragilidade inovativa e tecnológica da indústria de medicamentos e produtos biotecnológicos e a essencialidade de articulação entre diversos campos, em especial, da saúde e da economia, para incorporação de uma visão sistêmica, que crie condições para redução das vulnerabilidades, no que tange ao enfrentamento da pandemia, e equacione um projeto de desenvolvimento para o país.

Abstract: During a pandemic, economic, technological, and health systems' vulnerability become even more evident. A key challenge in Brazil is to control the trade deficit and difficulty in access to medicines and health products, even their development. Brazil's heavy external dependency on health inputs and products is one of the negative factors in confronting the global health emergency caused by SARS-CoV-2. The article aimed to discuss the vulnerabilities of the domestic chemical and biotechnological subsystem in the face of the current pandemic, with a focus on the pharmaceutical and biotech industry and the linkage between the fields of health and political economics. A qualitative study was performed with a literature review and analysis of secondary data as the methodological procedures. The results revealed low investment in public health, low innovation capacity, the pharmaceutical industry's profile, external dependency, currency exchange policy, patents, and other factors, demonstrating the major vulnerability in innovation and technology in the domestic pharmaceutical and biotech industry and the essential nature of linkage between various fields, especially health and the economy, for the incorporation of a systemic vision that creates the conditions to reduce vulnerabilities in the response to the pandemic and promote a development project for the country.

Resumen: En tiempos de pandemia, la vulnerabilidad económica, tecnológica y de los sistemas de salud queda aún más expuesta. En Brasil, uno de los mayores desafíos es el control del déficit de la balanza comercial, así como la dificultad de acceso a medicamentos y produtos de salud o incluso de su desarrollo. La fuerte dependencia externa de insumos y productos para la salud es uno de los factores negativos del país en el combate a la emergencia sanitaria mundial, ocasionada por el nuevo coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. En este contexto, el artículo procuró discutir las vulnerabilidades del subsistema de base química y biotecnológica nacional ante la actual pandemia, poniendo el foco en la industria de medicamentos y de productos biotecnológicos, así como la coordinación entre los campos de la salud y economía política. Se realizó una investigación cualitativa, utilizando como procedimientos metodológicos la revisión bibliográfica y el análisis de datos secundarios. Los resultados hallados, relacionados con la baja inversión en salud pública, baja capacidad de innovación, perfil de la industria farmacéutica, dependencia externa, política de cambio, patentes, entre otros, demuestra la gran fragilidad innovadora y tecnológica de la industria de medicamentos, así como de productos biotecnológicos, y la necesidad de una coordinación entre diversas áreas, en especial, de la salud y economía, para que se incorpore una visión sistémica, que cree condiciones para la reducción de las vulnerabilidades, en lo que atañe al combate de la pandemia y que cree un proyecto equilibrado de desarrollo para el país.

Health Technology Assessment: informed by science or in the service of politics? / Avaliação de Tecnologias em Saúde: informada pela ciência ou a serviço da política?

ABSTRACT The youth of Health Technology Assessment (HTA), as an institutional policy at the national level, signals the need to reflect on how its implementation took place under the perspective of its insertion in health policy and the scientific field. At the end of its first decade, these questions arise: has HTA translated into a health policy informed by science? Has its scientific foundation been used in the service of politics? To understand this political process, we apply the multiple-streams framework formulated by John Kingdon. The use of science to inform policy and the political use of science present themselves in an unstable balance. The survival of this policy will depend not only on science but on the art of orchestrating the interests of various agents so that HTA becomes a health policy for strengthening and sustainability of SUS.

RESUMO A juventude da Avaliação de Tecnologias em Saúde (ATS), enquanto política institucional no âmbito nacional, sinaliza a necessidade de uma reflexão sobre como se deu sua implementação, sob as perspectivas de sua inserção na política de saúde e do campo científico. Ao final de sua primeira década, levantam-se as perguntas: a ATS se traduziu em uma política de saúde (policy) informada pela ciência? Sua fundamentação científica foi usada a serviço da política (politics)? Para compreender esse processo político, aplicamos a teoria de múltiplos fluxos formulada por John Kingdon. Estabeleceu-se um equilíbrio instável entre o uso da ciência para informar a política e o uso político da ciência. A sobrevivência dessa política dependerá não só da ciência, mas da arte de orquestrar os interesses dos vários agentes, de forma que a ATS se torne uma política de saúde de fortalecimento e sustentabilidade do SUS.