Brazilian Technology Research Articles

Nanotechnology and agriculture in the tropical region: The perspective of the National Institute of Science and Technology in Brazil

Agriculture in the tropics plays a fundamental role in producing food, feed and fiber for the world due to the diversity of production possibilities. However, despite its productive potential, there are many demands for technologies, whether for improving plant growth and development, monitoring field conditions, protecting plants from adverse climatic conditions, or pest control. Nanotechnology can assist in integrated crop management through different applications (e.g., nanosensors for pest monitoring and controlled-release nanoformulations of agrochemicals and biostimulants), thus bringing benefits to tropical agriculture. In this context, the creation of institutes with an interdisciplinary focus, such as the recently created National Institute of Science and Technology in Nanotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture in Brazil, can bring advantages through carrying out research and development, as well as transfer of technology for society, thus contributing to sustainable agriculture.

A Multi-Method Approach to Assess the Adoption of Precision Agriculture Technology in Brazil

Precision Agriculture (PA) application aims to increase crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. We analyzed the topics most studied in the advancement of crop production in Brazil by applying the concepts of PA using the systematic literature review (SLR). A multi-method approach combined an SLR applying the PRISMA method and secondary data analysis. We found five clusters of technologies using the PA concept related to hardware development and four clusters related to applying technologies to software development in the PA concept. Most topics focused on using sensors to control water (soil and environment), soil electrical conductivity, and data communication. The focus on sustainability led researchers to reduce chemical products related to fertilizers and pesticides using Variable Rate Fertilizers (VRT) and reducing the environmental loading. According to the research results, it was evident that PA technology might help farmers make more accurate decisions about cultivation, production, harvest, and soil management. The availability of decision support systems powered by big data and artificial intelligence to select the best crop for a given season and soil might assist Brazil's sustainable growth of food production.

Supporting evidence-based judicial decisions on health care in Brazil: an experience report

Objective: The main objective of this study is to report on the implementation and results of the “Supporting Health-Related Judicial Decisions in Brazil” project conducted at the Health Technology Assessment Center, Hospital Sírio-Libanês through the “Programa de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Institucional do Sistema Único de Saúde”, in Brazil. Methods: This study is an experience report of a project conducted at the Health Technology Assessment Center, Hospital Sírio-Libanês. Results: The activities of the project occurred in 2023 and included two online training courses on primary studies and systematic reviews, 11 one-day workshops with technical-scientific content for members of the Technical Support Centers for the Judiciary (NATJus), 40 online technical-scientific consultations for magistrates on a digital platform, 11 technical-scientific reports addressing the most legally claimed technologies in Brazil; two methodological tools, a national forum (hybrid event), 10 chat-based mentorships for NATJus members; and the maintenance of an open-access blog, by publishing news on relevant topics on law and health. Discussion and conclusion: This project has contributed to the improvement of the judicial decision-making process by providing a range of activities aimed at aiding the prioritization of health technologies that are clearly effective and safe over those that are ineffective, harmful, or have uncertain effects. Submission: 04/09/24| Review: 06/29/24| Approval: 08/18/24

The mapping of processes in a campus of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology in Brazil: a case study

This research analyzes the process mapping developed by the Business Process Mapping Commission (CMPN) in a Campus of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology, a Brazilian Public Institution of Higher Education (IPES). From a documentary analysis, the history of management initiatives by processes of the rectory and the Campus object of study was presented. In the form of a case study, it was possible to identify, through a semi-structured interview with the members of the CMPN, the motivations, expectations, methodology and the main challenges faced in the implementation of the mapping of the processes that until the end of this work was in progress. Through the application of a questionnaire with closed questions, it was possible to assess that, in the perception of teaching, research and extension managers, the mapping of processes has a positive impact on the quality of teaching. Process management is an approach that can generate greater efficiency in the organization, however, it is perceived that the particularities of the Brazilian public sector create barriers for IPES initiatives to achieve the critical success factors found in the literature, requiring their own models.

DIGITAL INCLUSION IN STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN BRAZILIAN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

This article addresses the concepts of the use of educational information technology in Brazil and its relationship with the socialization of students with special needs. It begins with a report on the historical context of digital inclusion in Brazilian education, highlighting the main policies and programs implemented over the last few decades to integrate technology into the school environment. The research focuses on specific initiatives for the use of IT and related technologies as pedagogical support tools for students with special educational needs, such as Down Syndrome and hyperactivity disorders, in public elementary schools. The methodology used includes a qualitative analysis, with participatory observation in classrooms and semi-structured interviews with teachers, students and the resource room coordinator. The data collected was analyzed to identify the impacts of educational technologies on students’ learning and socialization. In addition, applications and digital tools were mapped that facilitate classes and promote a more inclusive learning environment. The main results indicate that the use of assistive technology has contributed significantly to the cognitive and social development of students, promoting greater interaction and autonomy. Educational applications stand out for their ability to adapt curricular content to individual needs, resulting in more personalized and effective learning. However, the research also identified challenges, such as the need for ongoing training for teachers to effectively use these technologies and the lack of adequate infrastructure in some schools.

How explain on-grid PV systems diffusion? Review and application in Brazil

This paper examines the remarkable growth of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy technology in Brazil, which stands out among the leading countries in photovoltaic installations. The recent implementation of Law 14300 on grid-connected PV systems has caused a stir in the Brazilian market, with investors anticipating installations to avoid reductions in benefits. This phenomenon, previously observed in Europe, instigates an understanding of the variables underlying the exponential growth of the Brazilian market. This study seeks to identify the predictors that explain the PV systems diffusion in Brazil, in two stages: a systematic review of the literature to map approaches and methods, followed by the construction of a database and the application of predictive models. The literature revealed 24 methods in six approaches, with 44 predictors. For Brazil, the database contains 90,129 instances, 22 predictors, and covers all 5570 municipalities. The results highlight the crucial importance of the electricity tariff as the main predictor, followed by irradiation and municipal Gross Domestic Product. Predictors such as the number of companies, minimum wage, HDI education, demographic density, and vehicle fleet prove to be relevant. In conclusion, the spatially explicit analysis highlights the complexity of the market, offering valuable implications for energy planners and stakeholders.

Analysis of the SWOT matrix as a strategy for implementing the Ap-Th1000 Reactor in Brazil

This article analyzes the SWOT Matrix for the implementation of the AP-Th1000 reactor with thorium fuel, aiming at a future replacement of the current nuclear reactors that use uranium as fuel by thorium. There was a need for an in-depth study of the national and international literature linked to the Brazilian reality. After that, specific meetings were held to detect all possible situations of the 4 main points of the SWOT matrix. During the sessions, which averaged 1 hour, the authors' industrial and academic expertise was demonstrated in competencies such as creativity, collaboration, effective communication, openness and tolerance, quick thinking, synthesis ability, problem focus, and flexibility during the discussions of over 50 items found in the analysis of the 4 points of the SWOT matrix. Each meeting was divided into three parts. The first part, which would be the Creative phase; and a second part, which would be the Critical phase; and, finally, the third phase, where ideas are filtered for the permanence of those that were better founded and of better acceptance. Then, the aspects listed were classified into 4 categories: Strengths (S), Weaknesses (W), Opportunities (O), and Threats (T). After the classification, a ranking of priorities was made, in descending order of importance, according to the authors, of the weaknesses and threats, neutralization suggestions were made. Finally, the data obtained were analyzed. We concluded through the SWOT analysis, we can observe an expressive amount of benefits of using the AP1000 reactor with MOX of Thorium and Uranium in the development of nuclear energy generation technologies in Brazil.

Father Roberto Landell de Moura and his contribution in the history of science and mobile communications

One of the highlights on the science and technology in Brazil is Father Roberto Landell de Moura, a Brazilian who developed the first radio transmitter in the world carrying the human voice by means of electromagnetic waves in 1893. It is reasonable to assume that an undergraduate degree in Technology in Computer Networks, students have the notion of Father Inventor work in relation to wireless transmissions. The purpose of this study and examine the phenomenon exists the notion of the work done by the Brazilian scientist, Father Moura. The study is conducted in a group of those who finished a course of Technology in Computer Networks, as this is an area that works a lot with wireless networks. It conducted a qualitative study that finds that few students said they had the idea in focus. It is suggested that the courses of this area address this important aspect.

PERCEIVING YOURSELF IN HEALTHCARE EXPERIENCES WITH THE THERAPEUTIC PLAY: THE NURSE REPRESENTING HIMSELF THROUGH THE DRAWING-STORY

Introduction. Among the playful interventions recommended for the children’s care, the use of Therapeutic Play stands out in healthcare. Scientific evidence highlights benefits for children as an expression of their feelings, doubts, fears, desires and, consequently, greater tranquility, collaboration and learning in health procedures. There are also positive outcomes related to the reduction of pain, anxiety and negative attitudes. The use of this Brazilian technology is regulated by the Nursing Federal Council, integrating the role of the one who works in pediatric contexts. However, research indicates barriers to the systematic implementation of this practice by nurses in their daily care for children/adolescents. Goal. To understand how nurses represent themselves experiencing the use of Therapeutic Play in the care of children/adolescents supported by Drawing- Story. Methods. This is a qualitative study carried out considering Symbolic Interactionism and Grounded Theory. Eleven nurses of both genders participated with experience in using/teaching Therapeutic Play. Data were collected through participant observation and semi-structured interviews, they were recorded and finalized by Drawing-Story simultaneously with the analysis following the steps: initial coding, categorization, theoretical coding, apprehension of the Central Category, until reaching theoretical saturation, allowing the construction of the Theoric Model. Results. The analysis of the graphic messages in the drawings and verbalizations make it possible to understand that when promoting Therapeutic Play in childcare, nurses perceive themselves dynamically represented by virtuous adjectives that motive them to action such as: helping, conserving, understanding, repairing and welcoming. When you act like this, you are connecting yourself with positive feelings: good humor, joy, hope, perseverance, empathy, love, and gratitude with resilience. Conclusion. The Drawing-Story technique enriched data collection, as it enabled nurses to release their inner inclinations through graphic expression, revealing the essence of the playful nurse-person, constituted by ludic affection and humanism.

ANALYSIS OF THE INSTITUTIONAL MISSION AND CONSTITUENT STRATEGY OF THE FEDERAL INSTITUTES OF EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN BRAZIL

Objective. Examine the institutional mission statement and constituent strategy of the Federal Institutes of Education, Science and Technology in Brazil. Design/method/perspective. The study is descriptive with a qualitative approach. We used the model presented by Pearce and David (1987) regarding the effectiveness of the mission model. We separated the research approach into two groups. First, we linked to hermeneutic analysis. The second group deals with the mission statement's effectiveness by identifying the elements. Results. We evidenced the low presence of the elements recommended by Pearce and David (1987), not even reaching half of the elements defined in the model. The normative aspects are, in percentage, the most addressed. Practical implications. There is a significant gap between what someone advocated in the Federal Institutes' mission statements and the strategy that gave rise to their creation. Originality/value. The originality of this article lies in the selection of educational institutions analysed since there is a significant volume of studies focused on higher education institutions but not on the complete set of Federal Institutes. Another distinctive aspect of this research concerns the analysis of the alignment of the mission statements with the strategy that gave rise to the creation of the Federal Institutes, the expansion, the internalisation and the increment of professional and technological education.

The challenges in rebuilding a quality public health in Brazil

In recent years, Brazil has grappled with a denialist approach to its healthcare system, the Unified Health System (SUS), especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Influential figures, including public personalities, have cast doubt on science, leading to widespread uncertainty. Despite the challenges, Brazil boasts a strong National Immunization Plan (PNI) that has served as a global reference. The country faces the demographic transition, with an aging population requiring healthcare adaptation. Addressing chronic diseases becomes paramount, as does managing the economic implications of an older workforce supporting retirees. Inequalities in access to quality public healthcare persist due to socioeconomic disparities, a divided healthcare system, geographic disparities, ethnic and racial inequalities, education and cultural factors, and long wait times in the public healthcare system. Environmental issues, like deforestation, wildfires, climate change, water pollution, pesticide use, industrial pollution, and food security, impact public health. Sustainable policies and awareness are crucial. Health research in Brazil thrives in universities, institutions, and through international collaboration. Clinical research, epidemiology, public health research, and tropical medicine research are prevalent, but funding challenges and research misconduct persist. Combating infodemia and fake news is essential to ensure that public health decisions are based on reliable information. Fact-checking organizations, healthcare professionals, and education play a vital role. Expanding vaccination coverage is critical to protect against infectious diseases. Brazil employs campaigns, vaccination centers, home visits, school vaccination, partnerships, effective communication, vaccination records, education, and prioritizing high-risk groups. Strengthening the First Level of Health Care through the Family Health Strategy, coverage expansion, professional qualification, electronic health records, prevention programs, management strategies, specialized care, service integration, and community participation can improve healthcare access and coordination. Health education in Brazil focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, child and family health, sexual education, community engagement, school education, information accessibility, and trust in public health policies. The growth of health technology in Brazil can enhance care quality, access, resource management, disease prevention, cost savings, and innovation. However, ethical considerations, equitable access, and data privacy are vital. A democratic environment in public health promotes community participation, accountability, equity, evidence-based decision-making, individual and collective rights, anti-corruption efforts, conflict resolution, and long-term policy planning. SUS funding faces challenges of insufficient resources, budget predictability, dependence on unstable funding sources, regional inequalities, healthcare professional shortages, underfunding of complex services, lack of prevention investment, corruption, and an aging population. Addressing these challenges is vital to maintain SUS as an equitable and effective healthcare system. In conclusion, addressing these healthcare challenges and opportunities is crucial for Brazil's future. It requires ongoing investment in public policies, a multidisciplinary approach, and active community participation. Strengthening primary healthcare and combating misinformation are essential steps toward a healthier and more equitable Brazil.

Learning management systems success in the Covid-19 post-pandemic blended learning context: Empirical evidence from a Brazilian engineering school

Learning management systems success in the Covid-19 post-pandemic blended learning context: Empirical evidence from a Brazilian engineering school

Assistive Technologies for the Deaf: A Study of the Search for Indexed Patents at the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property

This article presents a patent search study of 'Assistive Technologies for Deaf People.' The aim is to investigate patented technologies in Brazil, deposited with the National Institute of Industrial Property, to identify the tools developed for deaf people and to identify market opportunities for the advancement and development of new technologies that benefit the information and communication of deaf people. The methodological approach is a systematic review followed by a prospective study. Nineteen documents with extensive coverage deposited in the INPI's patent database were selected. Finally, the prospection showed a significant indication of assistive technologies, the vast majority of which favor the communication of deaf people, prioritizing Sign Language, thus ensuring linguistic accessibility, autonomy, and social inclusion.

Implementation of health technologies in Brazil: analysis of federal guidelines for the public health system.

This study aimed to identify the regulatory framework and federal guidelines that support the process of implementing health technologies in the Unified Health System (SUS) through analysis of documents and legislation related to the National Health Technology Management Policy, published between 2009 and 2021. The search and selection of documents and subsequent data extraction were carried out. The documents were grouped into three categories: structural regulatory documents, recommendations on evaluation of technologies, and recommendations on clinical guidelines. In 38.8% of the regulatory documents, citations to implementation related mainly to SUS clinical guidelines were identified; however, no document dedicated to guiding implementation actions was identified. Recommendations related to implementations were identified in 27.1% of the reports and 66.1% of the guidelines, although without standardization and, in general, in little detail, focusing on resources and actions needed for making technology available rather than on methods and interventions for its implementation. The results evidence a gap in formal guidelines to guide the implementation process in Brazil, representing an opportunity for the development of models aligned with the reality of the SUS.

An analysis of the relationship between rental housing and adoption of self‐generating energy sources in Brazil using matching methodology

AbstractWe examine the effect of household tenure choice on adopting self‐generation energy technologies in Brazil. We employ microdata from the Household Budget Survey (POF) dataset for 2017 and 2018 from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and matching methodology to evaluate various hypotheses regarding occupancy status, credit availability, purchasing power and life cycle theory. We also use placebo treatments, propensity score weighting, entropy balancing and Rosenbaum's sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of our findings. Results show that leasing a residence negatively and significantly affects families' adoption of self‐generating technologies with an estimated probability reduction of around 62%, with greater effects when considering credit, wages and life cycle.

The Relationship Between Personality Traits, Career Adaptability, and Gender: Evidence of Professionals from Brazilian Technology Incubators

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between personality traits and career adaptability, verifying the existence of the influence of gender in professionals from technology incubators in southern Brazil. Method: Through a quantitative study, the collection of primary data was carried out with a sample of 310 professionals from technology incubators in southern Brazil, where the relationships of the outlined hypotheses were evaluated through structural equation modeling. Results: Through data analysis, it was verified the existence of relationships between the analyzed constructs, in which the strongest correlations were between the Agreeableness with Emotional Stability and Extraversion, Trust with Cooperation and Control with Concern dimensions. Conclusion: Few studies have addressed the issue of career adaptability and personality traits in the technological environment, even more so when it comes to verifying the issue of gender difference in this space. In this sense, this study contributed to in interrelation of the approaches of career adaptability and personality traits, adding the relative gender to the field of technology since this environment is still strictly masculinized. From a practical point of view, it explains the importance of organizational policies that consolidate the amplitude of female participation and representation, especially in strategic positions in technology, raising reflections for managers about diversity and gender equity in an increasingly digital world.

Decoding corruption in Brazilian construction multinationals

PurposeThis study aims to investigate whether firms involved in a major corruption scandal, with broad ramifications across several emerging and advanced markets, design the content of their corporate codes of conduct to either improve corporate ethical standards and practices or merely manipulate the impression of stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopts an impression management perspective. It uses content analysis techniques to examine the codes of conduct adopted by seven Brazilian engineering and construction multinationals accused of corruption. The analysis covered five major themes: (1) forms of corruption, (2) values or principles, (3) interested parties, (4) procedures and routines and (5) punitive action.FindingsThe study provides detailed evidence that the codes of conduct adopted by these firms are mere artifices that aimed at meeting legal requirements but do not target the relevant corporate audience involved in grand corruption. At best, such a code may impede petty and bureaucratic corruption.Originality/valueThis research contributes to improving the understanding of how Latin American multinationals adopted codes of conduct after a major scandal and how they failed—at least to some extent—to design codes complying with established corporate governance principles. It shows that management manipulated the impression of stakeholders by selectively adopting or omitting certain terms, examining or concealing various issues and addressing mainly petty crimes rather than grand corruption. It also identifies areas where Western ethical values conflict with established practices and cultural norms in Latin America.

Digital Dependency as a Burden: Impact of Active Aging for Tech Adoption in Brazil and Chile

Successful aging and active aging policies frame independence in old age as an expectation and a virtue in opposition to the once desired reciprocity between generations. Due to digitalization trends worldwide, mastering digital skills becomes another responsibility for older adults to remain independent. However, this process can create new forms of dependency as support from skilled users – usually the younger generation – is crucial for technology adoption among older adults. This study addresses how older adults may experience digital dependency as a personal failure and a burden upon younger generations. We conducted long-term ethnography among older adults adopting new technology in Brazil and Chile, countries with rapidly aging populations that have implemented aggressive digitalization strategies. The fast digitalization of public services may increase the risks of social exclusion for older adults as the less connected and less skilled age group in Latin America. Contrary to expectations suggested by the research literature, participants preferred to enroll in smartphone workshops instead of relying on their children. We volunteered in smartphone workshops for older adults and mapped the difficulties they face when adopting new technologies and the strategies they develop afterward to use technology while avoiding dependency. Participants may restrict their use of smartphones due to their limited digital skills or claim a lack of interest in technology as a self-defense strategy against appearing ignorant or incompetent. We found that participants preferred relying on friends for support instead, perceiving their help as a form of peer collaboration.

Linear Fresnel reflector technology in Brazil: a techno-economic evaluation

This study aims to present the results of applying a computational tool developed to perform a technical-economic feasibility analysis of a large-scale Linear Fresnel Reflector (LFR) solar power plant. The viability analysis indicators were obtained considering that the electricity produced trades at the Regulated Contracting Environment of the Brazilian Electricity Market. The parametric structural optimization method is used to optimize the technical parameters of the plant. A case study was conducted to analyze the viability of Implementing a 100 MW LFR power plant in the five regions of Brazil. The results indicated that Northeastern is the best region to install this power plant. However, the project is not viable in all cities analyzed. A sensitivity analysis (SA) of some strategically selected variables was conducted to evaluate its impacts on the project's net present value of an optimized LFR plant located in the city with the best technical performance. Finally, an optimistic scenario was evaluated considering the net present value's response to the parameters investigated in the SA. For this scenario, the results indicated the project's economic viability.

Control of Brazil’s Braskem may change

Novonor says it is evaluating a proposal from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the private equity firm Apollo Global Management to acquire its controlling stake in the Brazilian petrochemical maker Braskem. Novonor, a Brazilian engineering and construction conglomerate formerly known as Odebrecht, owns 38.3% of Braskem’s total shares and 50.1% of its voting stock. The offer would potentially value Novonor’s stake at approximately $2.9 billion. The Brazilian state oil company Petrobras owns 36.1% of Braskem’s shares and 47.0% of its voting stock. Braskem, Latin America’s largest petrochemical maker, generated sales of $18.7 billion last year. It operates four ethylene complexes in Brazil. It also has a polyethylene joint venture in Mexico and a large US polypropylene business. Novonor faces big fines, including $2.6 billion from the US Department of Justice, for its involvement in a Brazilian corruption scandal. It has been looking to sell its Braskem stake for