bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examination of a Collection of Arabic Signatures
Authors: Haddad Ahmed Al , White Peter C. White , Cole Michael D.
Published: February 2025

Arabic is the national language of the 22 Arab States, where it is spoken and written by about 300 million people. Forensic document examiners are often required to examine Arabic signatures, but without the help of any reference library of signatures. This study generated a unique collection of signatures and multiple replicates on various occasions from 188 participants (128 male and 60 female). From this collection, 10 features common to all of the signatures were identified and used to examine the variation between signatures and generate quantitative data. The features (variables) selected included 3 measurable variables (i.e., height, length, height/length [H/L] ratio) and 7 features which could be classified according to a code (i.e., number of strokes, number of dots, direction of ending stroke, legibility of signatures, slant, starting position, and ending position).Using frequency plots generated from 10 signatures produced on 1 occasion by all of the 188 participants, the distribution of data for each feature could be observed. These results indicated that only 15% of the applicants produced a legible signature, and legibility was shown to have a considerable influence on features such as the number of dots, number of strokes, slant, and ending and starting positions. Some unusual frequency distributions can be observed with several features (e.g., the number of dots, number of strokes and the H/L ratio), thus highlighting the uniqueness of some signatures. This form of visualisation also illustrated some unexpected results. For example, more participants produced right- as opposed to the normally expected left-slanted signatures, and a larger number of females were identified as using more strokes than males.These frequency plots also confirmed that all the classified features and, to a lesser extent, the measurable variables were not normally distributed. Hence, a Mann-Whitney statistical test was used to determine if, for any feature, there were any significant differences between signatures produced by the male and female participants. Significant differences in data for 5 of the features can be identified; namely, number of strokes, number of dots, height, length, and H/L ratio. With the exception of the H/L ratio, a replicated study using a 2nd set of signatures produced by all the participants on another occasion gave virtually identical Mann-Whitney results, thus indicating the high degree of consistencyof some of the selected features.
Decipherment of Counterfeit Traveler’s Checks
Authors: Aloyoni Mohammed , Gushaish Jubran , Zahrani Yaser
Published: February 2025

Traveler’s checks (TCs) are popular among visitors to Saudi Arabia during pilgrimage (Hajj) time because they are more secure than cash and easy to exchange with local money at local banks. This paper reveals the decipherment of 3 groups of fraudulent traveler’s checks that were caught in local banks during Hajj.
Liquid Lead Pencils Revisited
Authors: Lanners Brenda N.
Published: February 2025

In most cases, a Forensic Document Examiner has little trouble differentiating between the stroke made by a pencil and one made by a rollerball pen or a ballpoint pen. The liquid lead pencil, however, presents a more challenging stroke appearance which is a hybrid of the fluid ink of a rollerball pen and the striations of a ballpoint pen. This study will compare characteristics of the stroke lines of liquid lead pencils, graphite pencils, ballpoint pens, rollerball pens and gel pens, on original and photocopied documents. Forensic Document Examiners should be aware of the stroke characteristics of a liquid lead pencil when making a determination as to the writing instrument used on a document.
Frequency of Selected Hand Printing Characteristics Occurring within a National Population: The New International Version Bible Across America©
Authors: Bishop Brett M. D.
Published: February 2025

Statistical analyses of data gathered for the hand-printing characteristics of a large national population of writers has yet to be undertaken in the field of document examination. Previous, smaller studies documented the frequency of characteristics (e.g. skill, writing systems, style, and letter formations), but have not been updated for nearly twenty years. This research project examines hand-printing characteristics, specifically letter formations, to discover data which can be analyzed to establish frequency of their occurrence.The source for this project is the New International Version Bible Across America© published by Zondervan. This version contains the writing of more than 31,000 individuals representing all fifty American states and abroad. Data for this study are based on a sample set of 500 people. The characteristics studied included various formations of “a,” “n,” and “r.” This research will be compared with previous findings from other studies, the most recent of which occurred in 1992 and will include recommendations for future study regarding the distinctiveness of hand-printing characteristics.
An Examination of the Techniques for Sequence Determination of Original Writing Ink and Toner Printing
Authors: Kulbacki Kevin P. , Nieliwocki Alexander , McCann Sean Patrick
Published: February 2025

Forensic Document Examiners frequently conduct examinations to determine the sequence in which intersecting entries were written. This paper arises from casework and subsequent research undertaken to determine the reliability of various techniques for the removal of toner in a sequence examination. Tests were conducted using a Canon Color Image Runner C1022i printer and a variety of different writing instruments. The test intersections were prepared using a standardized template with varying sequences of ink before toner and ink after toner. The techniques being tested included using different sharp tools for the removal of the toner as well as a process of pre-treating the document through freezing. The techniques being tested are destructive in nature and therefore this study is being completed primarily as a theoretical exercise.
Study of Signatures Written over Extended Periods of Time*
Authors: Singer Kirsten A. , Cox Nancy M.
Published: February 2025

One of the basic premises of forensic handwriting examination is that a person’s writing may gradually change over time. While handwriting change is frequently evident to varying degrees, it is not known how reliably, and to what degree, change occurs.The current study was conducted on the normal course of business signatures of 51 individuals, written over an average of four decades, in order to determine whether specific aspects of handwriting change over time. The research showed that, based on the eight characteristics defined by the authors, most individuals’ handwriting changes very little over time, and that the most common change in writing occurs in line quality at an average age of 77 years. While limitations are noted in the research methods and materials, the size of the research sample provides a substantive foundation for continuing research on this topic.
A Study on the Handwriting of Adolescents in Singapore
Authors: Yang Chiew Yung , Lim Chin Chin , Sim Yvonne Hui Ying
Published: February 2025

The handwriting of adolescents is an interesting and challenging topic. Although a number of similar studies have been conducted in the past, most of these pertain to handwriting in North America and as such, research is limited in Asia. The way handwriting is taught can vary significantly across geographical locations. As shown in the preliminary study conducted in 2014 on the handwriting of 60 students in Secondary 1 (12 to 13 year olds) from a school in Singapore, the writing styles and prominent characteristics of the local population showed differences from those previously reported in other countries. More work has since been done to expand this study to include a greater number of students from three local secondary schools. The results of writing samples from 382 students confirmed that there are a number of differences in the writing styles and characteristics of adolescents between the current Singapore study and previous studies from other countries.
It’s Palm, Not Palmer
Authors: Karpel Rose
Published: February 2025

Character recognition technology for handheld computers often incorporates the use of novel systems of writing. This paper describes the Graffiti® writing system used with the PalmPilot series of handheld computers and its implications for forensic handwriting examinations. As the writer becomes accustomed to using Graffiti®, certain characteristics may carry over into non-Palm writing. Handheld computers are becoming part of daily life, and the writing systems used with them, like Graffiti®, may become part of a Forensic Document Examiner’s workload.
Forensic Investigative and Evaluative Assessment of Handwritten X-Marks
Authors: Marquis Raymond , Hicks Tacha , Mazzella Williams
Published: February 2025

Analysis of simple written entries can represent a challenge in the practice of forensic handwriting examiners. This article shows that valuable information can be elicited from X-marks features, in agreement with the recommendations of the ENFSI guideline for evaluative reporting. In the course of a real case encountered by the authors, an experimental study was designed to acquire structured data required to help answer the questions of the mandate. X-marks from 75 right-handed and 25 lefthanded writers were collected and classified according to their stroke sequence. The results of this empirical study were first used to assess handedness of the writer, together with a development on the risk of misleading evidence as a measure of the method performance. The results were then used to assess writership of a given person rather than an unknown person. This paper shows that following the ENFSI recommendations for evidence interpretation may require only a small dataset collected for the case needs. The procedure of evidence interpretation detailed in this paper may be followed by any examiner interested in applying a Bayesian approach on simple data collected for assessing the results of a given case, should this concern an X-mark or any other handwritten sign or letter.
Analysis of Phenoxyethanol: Instrumental Parameters and Effects
Authors: Lyter Albert H.
Published: February 2025

In the last 10 to 15 years several examination methodologies have been proposed that rely on the quantitative analysis of semi-volatile components in writing ink, such as Phenoxyethanol (PE), for the purpose of determining the date of production of the writing. These examination methodologies require the use of analytical instrumentation that is capable of determining with great sensitivity and specificity both the identity and quantity of these components. The instrumentation of choice is gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) with the sample introduction methods varying from solvent injection to thermal desorption.This work addresses the impact that various instrumental conditions and parameters will have on the ability to accurately and precisely measure the quantity of semi-volatile components. Instrumental components ranging from the injector, through the column, to the source were evaluated by sequential analysis of a range of standard solutions, both before and after maintenance procedures. Since most of the examination methodologies involve the comparison of writing ink samples both with and without exposure to artificial aging conditions, such samples were also included in the examination scheme.Analysis of the above referenced samples resulted in an effective evaluation of the extent to which any instrumental parameter affects the ability to accurately determine the amount of semi-volatile components present in a writing ink sample. Linear relationships were determined between standard solutions of varying concentrations and among writing ink samples of varying concentrations. The condition of instrumental components was found to have a minimal, measurable effect upon quantitative determinations of the concentration of semi-volatile components. Ultimately, the comparison of writing ink samples with artificially aged samples was found to produce data that was capable of reliably determining the age of the examined writings and was not affected by the instrumental parameters that were tested.
Duplicating the Artist’s Palette: A Classroom Exercise Illustrating the Role of Pigments, Natural Binders and Gold Foil Inlays in Illuminated Manuscripts: An Exercise for Forensic Chemistry and Art Conservation Students
Authors: Ridolfi Douglas A.
Published: February 2025

This paper provides an outline of an exercise related to the reproduction of the pigment and natural binders used in historical illuminated manuscripts. Students are introduced to the microscopic examination of modern pigments and how they differ from historical, hand ground pigments derived from mineral and natural pigments. They also prepare natural binders derived from egg white and egg yolk and observe the relative utility of these natural adhesives for pigment vs. gold inlay application to art paper.
A Study of Hmong Handwriting
Authors: Tweedy Janis S.
Published: February 2025

The handwriting of Hmong people who learned to write in Southeast Asia was collected and studied to see if there were any class characteristics or unusual habits present in the writing that could identify it as having been produced by a Hmong writer. Of interest is the fact that the Hmong people had no written language before 1953 when one was developed for them that uses the Roman alphabet. No identifiable class characteristics or habits were identified. However, a large percentage of the writers used more hand printing or penlifts than normally encountered by the author.
Choosing Cascading Beads for the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus
Authors: Beal Bonnie L.
Published: February 2025

The Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA) cascade developer beads become pitted or roughed up over time and lose the ability to attract toner, thereby lessening the effectiveness of the cascading beads. After viewing the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus beads under a microscope it was decided to replace them with newer beads. At this time an experiment was undertaken using two different size beads. Foster + Freeman beads and sandblasting beads were used, with the latter being the smaller of the two types of beads. The smaller sandblasting beads developed the indented images better.
Discrimination of Ballpoint Pen Inks by High Performance Capillary Electrophoresis and High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Whiting T.D.
Published: February 2025

Previous research demonstrates that Capillary Zone Electrophoresis has been successful in discriminating between various writing inks, including those found in felt tip and fountain pens. This preliminary study demonstrates ballpoint pen inks being discriminated using High Performance Capillary Electrophoresis (HPCE). Ballpoint pen inks were also tested using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and the results compared with those obtained from HPCE. Methodologies for sample preparation of four black ballpoint pen inks were developed to test a Beckman P/ACE System 5000 for HPCE and a Waters 712 WISP millepore injector system for HPLC. The initial data from HPCE and HPLC consistently differentiated between the four black ballpoint pen ink samples. The advantages of HPCE over HPLC include lower operating costs and the use of buffers rather than solvents. Further research in HPCE and ballpoint pen inks should provide an effective document examination tool for the discrimination of ballpoint inks.
Manufacture of Pirated Compact Discs in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheng Yau-Sang , Li Chi-Keung , Hung Pui-Shing
Published: February 2025

Compact discs (CDs) have gained popularity as a recording medium since the early 1980s. Owing to the low production cost and high profit margins, the medium has been a target for pirating by the clandestine “industry.” This paper briefly describes the manufacturing process of a compact disc, and the identification methods used to relate a pirated CD with the stampers, mold heads and printing screens found in the clandestine CD factory. Characteristic defects introduced during the various stages of the production process, namely, the molding, design and printing, all offer excellent potential for comparative examination.
Class Characteristics of Counterfeit Protection System Codes of Color Laser Copiers
Authors: Tweedy Janis S.
Published: February 2025

As the quality of the color laser copiers increased at the end of the 1980s, it became apparent that they could be used to produce credible copies of important documents. In an effort to stop their use as a counterfeiting tool, changes were made to the machines to prevent the copying of important documents as well as to identify the color laser copier used to make the copy through the inclusion of a code on each color laser copy. Submitting the copies to the U.S. Secret Service Laboratory can allow for decoding to identify the make, model, and serial number of the copier used. However, by studying the code present on a color laser copy, a forensic document examiner may determine the possible manufacturer of the color laser copier used to produce the copy which may be useful as investigative information. Also, the forensic document examiner can identify a color laser copier as the one used to produce questioned copies if the questioned copies display the same code as produced by the known color laser copier.
Review of Forensic Examination of Rubber Stamps, A Practical Guide
Authors: Lindblom Brian
Published: February 2025

Kelly, Jan Seaman (2002). Forensic Examination of Rubber Stamps, A Practical Guide. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas, Publisher, LTD. Hardcover $44.97. Softcover $36.95.
The Initial Profiling Trial of a Program to Characterize Forensic Handwriting Examiners’ Skill
Authors: Found Bryan , Rogers Doug
Published: February 2025

This paper reports the results of the first profiling trial of a program that was developed to provide information concerning the skill characteristics of document examiners in expressing authorship opinions on handwritten text and signatures. This information is provided to participants of the profiling trials in the form of a certificate that numerically describes the nature of their skill in terms of correct, error, and conservatism rates. The rationale for the program, given recent criticisms of opinion identification evidence of this type, and some elements of the testing program are described. The performance feedback package is overviewed which provides examiners with the opportunity for corrective action where required. In this trial, 20 government employed document examiners provided opinions on the process of production and authorship of 250 questioned signatures that were a mixture of genuine, disguised, simulated, and auto-simulated signatures. Findings for the group included a very low error rate (0.04%) for authorship opinions, with a high correct rate for genuine signatures, and a high conservatism rate for simulated and auto-simulated signatures. Examiners correctly identified that signatures were simulated in 95% of instances.
The Handwriting Testimony in the Trial of Bruno Richard Hauptmann
Authors: Hicks A. Frank
Published: February 2025

The trial testimony involving the kidnapping and subsequent death of Charles A. Lindbergh, Jr. was explored in some detail. The strategies used by the prosecution and the defense when questioning the document examiner experts were addressed and some of the more notable answers highlighted. Photos of the ransom letters and some court charts have been shown.
Spectroscopic and Chromatographic Analytical Methods for Quantification of Rivaroxaban
Authors: Vaishali K  , Sowmya H G  , Naveen Kumar G S
Published: February 2025

Rivaroxaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant, requires precise and reliable analytical methods for its quantification in pharmaceutical and biological matrices. This work presents the evolution of analytical techniques developed between 2013 and 2024 for rivaroxaban determination. UV spectrophotometric methods offer simplicity and cost-effectiveness, showing linearity in the range of 2-20 µg/mL with detection wavelengths between 250-270 nm. RP-HPLC methods utilizing C18 columns and acetonitrile-based mobile phases achieve detection limits of 8.3 ng/mL, providing enhanced sensitivity and specificity. HPTLC techniques enable simultaneous analysis of multiple samples with minimal preparation steps. LC-MS/MS methods demonstrate superior sensitivity with detection limits in the picogram range, particularly beneficial for bioanalytical applications. Stability-indicating assays reveal degradation patterns under various stress conditions, essential for quality control and stability monitoring. Recent trends indicate a growing emphasis on green analytical chemistry approaches and quality-by-design principles in method development. These methodologies support quality control processes, bioequivalence studies, and therapeutic drug monitoring of rivaroxaban, ensuring accurate quantification across various matrices and concentration ranges.
A Systematic Review of Antidiabetic Prescription Patterns and the Impact of Pharmacist-Provided Education on Clinical Outcomes in Diabetes Mellitus Management
Authors: Dr. Syed Afzal Uddin Biyabani  , Dr. Neelkantreddy Patil  , Syed Raziuddin Faisal  , Safa Wasay
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus management requires comprehensive understanding of medication prescription patterns and effective educational interventions for optimal patient outcomes. This study synthesized evidence from multiple databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, examining publications up to 2024. Current prescribing trends indicate metformin as the primary first-line therapy, with sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, and SGLT-2 inhibitors following in frequency of use. Each medication class demonstrates unique benefits and limitations, influencing prescriber choices based on patient-specific factors. Analysis of pharmacist-led interventions revealed significant improvements in clinical outcomes, with documented HbA1c reductions averaging 0.76% compared to standard care. Educational programs conducted by pharmacists demonstrated marked enhancement in medication adherence rates, patient knowledge scores, and self-management capabilities. Implementation challenges were identified, including limited professional recognition, inadequate reimbursement mechanisms, and time constraints in practice settings. The evidence supports the crucial role of pharmacists in diabetes management teams, suggesting the need for enhanced integration of pharmacy services into standard diabetes care protocols
A Review of Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, And Therapeutic Management of Methemoglobinemia
Authors: Ramya Sri Bura  , Sujatha Gorle  , Gayathri Devi Setti  , Ravi Prakash Degala
Published: February 2025

Methemoglobinemia occurs when hemoglobin's iron is oxidized from ferrous (Fe2+) to ferric (Fe3+) state, resulting in impaired oxygen transport and potential tissue hypoxia. The condition manifests through inherited mutations affecting hemoglobin structure or enzymatic pathways, or through acquired causes including exposure to oxidizing agents and medications. Clinical presentations range from asymptomatic cases to severe manifestations like cyanosis, dyspnea, and life-threatening complications. Diagnostic challenges arise from the condition's ability to interfere with standard pulse oximetry readings, making specialized techniques like co-oximetry essential for accurate assessment. The primary therapeutic intervention involves methylene blue administration, which functions through the NADPH-dependent pathway to reduce methemoglobin levels. Treatment protocols require careful consideration of severity, underlying etiology, and individual patient factors, particularly G6PD status. Additional therapeutic options include ascorbic acid supplementation and supportive care measures. Recent molecular studies have enhanced the identification of genetic variants and improved understanding of drug-induced cases, leading to more targeted therapeutic approaches. Prevention strategies focus on identifying high-risk medications and environmental exposures. Early recognition and prompt intervention remain crucial for optimal patient outcomes, particularly in severe cases where methemoglobin levels exceed 30%.
Recent Advances in Nanoparticle Systems and Their Applications
Authors: Vijaya Kumar Voleti  , Ramya Bharathy V  , Saikiran M  , Shanmugapandiyan P
Published: February 2025

Nanoparticles represent a fundamental class of materials with dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers, exhibiting unique physicochemical properties distinct from their bulk counterparts. The synthesis of nanoparticles encompasses various methodologies including chemical, physical, biological, and green synthesis routes, each offering specific advantages in size control, distribution, and scalability. Characterization techniques such as TEM, SEM, XRD, and spectroscopic methods enable precise determination of morphology, structure, and surface properties. Applications of nanoparticles span across biomedical fields through drug delivery systems, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic interventions. Environmental applications focus on water purification, air filtration, and pollution control. In energy sectors, nanoparticles enhance solar cell efficiency, battery performance, and catalytic processes. Industrial implementations include advanced manufacturing, electronic components, and protective coatings. Emerging applications extend to quantum computing, neuromorphic systems, space technology, agriculture, and smart textiles. The rapid advancement in nanoparticle science continues to generate novel solutions for global challenges while emphasizing the importance of controlled synthesis, characterization, and application-specific optimization
El capital social de las organizaciones y su entorno: conceptualización teórica, medición e intervención en la generación del capital social
Authors:   Universidad de Deusto, Ayerbe Echeberría Miguel , Ayerbe Mujika Olatz ,   Universidad de Deusto, Barandiaran Irastorza Xabier ,   Universidad de Deusto, Lazkano Agirre Ainhoa ,   Universidad de Deusto, Mujika Alberdi Alazne ,   Universidad de Deusto, Plazaola Arrondo Alatzne ,   Universidad de Deusto
Published: February 2025

El análisis y la evaluación del capital social existente en una determinada red de relaciones individuales, organizacionales, sociales o comunitarias se han constituido en un instrumento de gran utilidad para aquellos que dirigen y gestionan las organizaciones. Midiendo el capital social de una red podemos diagnosticar la cantidad y la calidad de las relaciones existentes en una red. Las organizaciones con mayor capacidad de desarrollo sostenible son aquellas que sitúan su cultura y acción en el conjunto de la red empresarial y social en la que interactúan. Sus vínculos abarcan más allá de los estrictamente empresariales. Son parte «activa» de la vida y desarrollo del entorno. La empresa se constituye así en un «proyecto humano» activo en la construcción de la realidad social y comunitaria. Al mismo tiempo, la fortaleza de la red comunitaria y social facilita el desarrollo de la cultura y acción empresarial. El cambio cualitativo de las organizaciones de tipo empresarial supone especialmente las siguientes tres características: a) modelo de relación interna basado en la generación de conocimiento; b) personas del conocimiento; c) complejidad en la relación con el entorno.
Capital social organizacional: la capacidad auto-regenerativa de las organizaciones
Authors:   MIK S. Coop. Mondragon, Fernández Isoird Carlos , Unamuno Aranburu Ainhoa ,   MIK S. Coop. Mondragon, Urkidi Díez Iñigo ,   MIK S. Coop. Mondragon
Published: February 2025

La innovación es el resultado del principio de conservación de la capacidad de adaptación. La innovación no es una novedad ni una moda, sino una condición sistémica de vida. Lo que estamos viviendo podemos traducirlo a una necesidad de regeneración que se ha acelerado e incrementado en términos de velocidad e impredecibilidad. Los cambios del medio al cual los sistemas deben adaptarse, son cada día mayores y más rápidos. La innovación es una capacidad disponible para todos los seres humanos y, por ende, para toda organización social que no requiere ser desarrollada, sino simplemente superar los límites autoimpuestos por los individuos y las organizaciones, es decir, simplemente «desencadenarla», liberándola de los factores culturales 'discursos, prácticas y actitudes' que impiden su libre manifestación. Es aquí donde la comunidades de práctica, en sintonía con el capital social organizacional, pueden propiciar la interacción y el intercambio de conocimiento que redunde en la creación de nuevas formas de enfrentarse a los cambios del entorno, creando modificaciones en la propia estructura de la organización.
Las relaciones entre descentralización y capital social: argumentos teóricos y referencia española
Authors:   Universidad de Vigo, Arias Moreira Xosé Carlos , Lago Peñas Santiago ,   Universidad de Vigo
Published: February 2025

Este trabajo explora las relaciones existentes entre capital social y procesos de descentralización, partiendo de una discusión acerca de la primera noción y acogiéndose a su definición como una urdimbre de instituciones informales que inducen comportamientos cooperativos espontáneos de los individuos. En el debate teórico en torno a los efectos económicos de la descentralización, destacan algunos beneficios relevantes, pero también ciertos costes. El argumento central de este artículo es que la dotación de capital social puede ser un elemento de gran importancia para inclinar la balanza hacia el lado de las ventajas: en el caso de que una mayor descentralización consiga efectivamente incrementar la dotación de capital social 'lo que se puede acreditar para un buen número de casos, pero no es un fenómeno universal', ello debiera incorporar ganancias significativas en términos de reducción de los costes de transacción y de impulso de la capacidad de innovación y la calidad de las políticas públicas. Argumento que se contrasta con datos de las Comunidades Autónomas españolas.
Una propuesta conceptual sobre nuevos indicadores para la ciudad del conocimiento
Authors:   MIK S. Coop. Mondragon, Arboníes Ortiz Ángel
Published: February 2025

Este artículo pretende aportar un marco teórico de trabajo nuevo en el estudio y desarrollo de las ciudades como comunidades de práctica y una pauta para construir indicadores de capital social orientado a la «ciudad del conocimiento». Parte de la concepción de la ciudad como un sistema complejo donde no es posible intervenir directamente sobre ella como un ente abstracto, sino a través de sus habitantes, por lo que la política económica debe ir dirigida a fomentar la auto-organización de las personas, que son los que realmente garantizan la sostenibilidad de las acciones emprendedoras y de creación de conocimiento, dando lugar al nacimiento de las llamadas «comunidades de práctica».
Medición del capital social en las redes institucionales del "Departamento para la Innovación y la Sociedad del Conocimiento" de la Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa. Una propuesta metodológica
Authors:   Universidad de Deusto, Ayerbe Echeberría Miguel , Ayerbe Mujika Olatz ,   Universidad de Deusto, Barandiaran Irastorza Xabier ,   Universidad de Deusto, Lazkano Agirre Ainhoa ,   Universidad de Deusto, Mujika Alberdi Alazne ,   Universidad de Deusto, Plazaola Arrondo Alatzne ,   Universidad de Deusto
Published: February 2025

En 2004, el Departamento para la Innovación y la Sociedad del Conocimiento mostró su deseo de conocer el «tipo» de relaciones que ha ido estableciendo con otras organizaciones e instituciones a lo largo de las diferentes Actuaciones y Programas que ha llevado a cabo. El Departamento mostró su preocupación por la cantidad y la calidad de sus relaciones, convencido de que la mejora de las relaciones entre distintas organizaciones e instituciones incide de manera extraordinaria en el desarrollo mutuo, la creación e intercambio de conocimiento y, en última instancia, en el cumplimiento de los objetivos propuestos. El instrumento de medición del capital social creado en esta investigación es una nueva propuesta para medir la cantidad y la calidad de las relaciones de una institución concreta. La metodología seguida en esta investigación podría ser aplicada para desarrollar nuevos instrumentos de medición para otro tipo de organizaciones distintas de las consideradas en este trabajo.
El capital social: Caso Lea Artibai
Authors:   Azaro Fundazioa, Basurko Urkidi Ainara
Published: February 2025

El sector privado puede contribuir a la creación de capital social: propiciando la creación de asociaciones y multiplicando los servicios de agentes intermediarios que buscan mejorar las relaciones entre las empresas, fomentando de forma permanente formas de cooperación, cultivando la confianza mutua entre los actores organizacionales, desplegando un comportamiento constructivo y creador, impulsando la presencia de valores comunes, reforzando la afirmación de la identidad personal, familiar y colectiva e impulsando el crecimiento de la autoestima en la misma experiencia. En este trabajo se describen los principales hitos que se han vivido en la comarca de Lea Artibai de la que se han derivado importantes resultados desde el punto de vista del desarrollo económico y bienestar social y en los que la clave ha residido en el trabajo conjunto y coordinado de jóvenes promotores que ha tenido continuidad en el tiempo a través de diferentes formas de impulsar el desarrollo comarcal, y que constituyen claros ejemplos de la efectividad del capital social como agente transformador del entorno. Este artículo se centrará fundamentalmente en el papel jugado por la Escuela Profesional Lea Artibai, organización que desde su origen fue creada para actuar —buscando en todo momento la representatividad comarcal y la integración de diferentes agentes—, en pro de la competitividad del capital social y económico de la comarca.
Capital social y pymes internacionalizadas de Bizkaia
Authors:   Tecnalia, Oleaga Páramo Mercedes , Ugalde Sánchez Igone ,   Tecnalia
Published: February 2025

En el nuevo escenario de la sociedad del conocimiento, el capital social cobra un gran interés no sólo para los teóricos del desarrollo sino para las instituciones de promoción económica y social en Europa. Independientemente de cual sea la perspectiva de estudio, el concepto de capital social se refiere a las relaciones sociales de tipo horizontal basadas en la confianza y la reciprocidad. El presente artículo pretende dar respuesta a algunas interrogantes relacionadas con el capital social en el territorio histórico de Bizkaia. El artículo presenta la investigación en curso, que estudia cómo afecta el capital social al desarrollo en Bizkaia, y en particular de sus pymes internacionalizadas.
Evaluación y gestión eficiente en el sector público: aspectos organizativos e institucionales
Authors:   Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Onrubia Fernández Jorge
Published: February 2025

El artículo detalla los aspectos organizativos e institucionales que influyen en el desarrollo de una gestión pública eficiente y en el funcionamiento de los sistemas de evaluación de actividades públicas. Desde un enfoque de la Economía de la Organización, se analizan aquellos procesos que permiten una gestión eficiente de la información y que son la base del funcionamiento adecuado de los sistemas de control interno y externo. Asimismo, se revisan los requisitos básicos exigibles para la implantación de sistemas de incentivos basados en resultados, instrumento esencial en la consecución de una gestión pública eficiente. La elección óptima de los instrumentos empleados para desarrollar la gestión pública es también analizada desde una perspectiva organizativa. El artículo concluye con una comparación entre dos modelos de arquitectura organizativa, uno descentralizado y con autonomía en la gestión operativa, y otro centralizado y con jerarquía en la adopción de decisiones de gestión.
Programación y evaluación pública: un triángulo complejo
Authors:   Universidad de Sevilla, Osuna Llaneza José Luis , Vélez Méndez Carmen ,   Universidad de Sevilla, Cirera León Ana ,   Universidad de Sevilla, Murciano Rosado Juan ,   Universidad de Sevilla
Published: February 2025

El desarrollo teórico de la evaluación de políticas públicas se ha centrado en la elaboración de herramientas y metodologías de análisis de programas y proyectos aislados. Los programas públicos actuales están caracterizados por lo que podría denominarse «un triángulo complejo de relaciones » donde se encuentran la múltiple dimensión sectorial que pretende cubrir las intervenciones públicas de esta naturaleza, la heterogeneidad y multiplicidad de los implicados en un programa y las diferentes escalas administrativas encargadas de la gestión y ejecución de las actuaciones y su estructura política. Además, la interrelación entre estos tres elementos añade más complejidad al objeto de la evaluación. Con la intención de mostrar la naturaleza compleja del enfoque de evaluación, en este artículo se han seleccionado dos casos de estudio: la evaluación de la Iniciativa Comunitaria Equal en Andalucía y la evaluación de la política municipal de vivienda en Sevilla.
'Métodos cuantitativos y "benchmarking": su utilidad para orientar las políticas públicas
Authors:   Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, López-Valcárcel Beatriz González
Published: February 2025

Un área en la que los métodos cuantitativos, entendidos en sentido amplio, han demostrado ser útiles por su contribución al diseño y evaluación de las políticas públicas es la elaboración de «ligas » o ranking, bien sean de criterio único o múltiple. Investigadores académicos y responsables de las políticas públicas están alcanzando puntos de encuentro en su aplicación a países, a unidades de producción y en la priorización de problemas. El artículo ofrece una tipología de los métodos y revisa su aplicabilidad, limitaciones y retos para el futuro.
'Política europea de empleo para mujeres inactivas: ¿Cómo sabremos si estamos acertando?
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Ballart Hernández Xavier
Published: February 2025

El objetivo del análisis y de la evaluación es proporcionar información objetiva a los gestores de los programas y a los representantes políticos sobre los costes y los efectos de los programas. El caso que se presenta a continuación 'en el marco de la iniciativa europea Equal' ilustra esta idea. Se trata de un programa europeo en el que la administración responsable gestiona correctamente y obtiene unos resultados aceptables. Sin embargo, una investigación basada en entrevistas en detalle a treinta usuarias seleccionadas aleatoriamente pone de relieve que la evaluación estandarizada no responde a preguntas fundamentales sobre el valor público del programa. Así pues, se cuestiona si la evaluación que se ha ido desarrollando en Europa en los últimos años ha sido capaz de adaptarse a cada proyecto y si puede estar produciendo información útil para la comparación básica entre proyectos pero no para tomar decisiones estratégicas sobre las políticas.
Evaluación de un Programa de Atención Dental Público: PADI en el País Vasco
Authors:   Universitat Pompeu Fabra, García Gómez Pilar
Published: February 2025

Este artículo presenta los resultados obtenidos de la implementación del Programa de Atención Dental Infantil en el País Vasco. Se estudian los efectos que ha tenido la introducción de atención dental pública gratuita para los niños sobre la probabilidad de no haber ido nunca al dentista, de haber ido en los últimos tres meses y de que la última visita al dentista fuese una revisión. Se utiliza la metodología de «dobles diferencias», en la que la evaluación en el País Vasco se compara con la evolución en el resto de España, así como triples diferencias, incluyendo al mismo tiempo un grupo de control del País Vasco. Los resultados sugieren que el programa sólo ha influido en la probabilidad de haber visitado al dentista en los últimos tres meses.
Los emprendedores con potencial de crecimiento y el desarrollo económico. Políticas públicas de apoyo a los emprendedores
Authors:   Universidad de Cambridge, Stam Erik , Suddle Kashifa ,   EIM Business and Policy Research, Hessels S. Jolanda A. ,   EIM Business and Policy Research, van Stel André ,   EIM Business and Policy Research
Published: February 2025

Este artículo indaga si la actividad de los llamados empresarios ambiciosos es más determinante para el crecimiento económico de los países que la actividad emprendedora en general. Utilizamos datos del Global Entrepreneurship Monitor de una muestra de 36 países para comprobar hasta qué punto las ambiciones de alto crecimiento de los emprendedores afectan al crecimiento de PIB. Los resultados sugieren que un espíritu emprendedor ambicioso contribuye con más fuerza al crecimiento económico que la actividad emprendedora en general. Encontramos un efecto particularmente importante del espíritu emprendedor de alta expectativa en los países en transición. Estos resultados son pertinentes a la luz del debate en curso sobre la idoneidad de las políticas públicas orientadas a promover las empresas de rápido crecimiento.
Análisis empírico descriptivo de las prácticas y técnicas de gestión de las empresas vascas
Authors:   Universidad del País Vasco, Aguirre García María Soledad , Albizu Gallastegi Eneka ,   Universidad del País Vasco, Charterina Abando Jon ,   Universidad del País Vasco, Landeta Rodríguez Jon ,   Universidad del País Vasco
Published: February 2025

Este artículo aborda el tema de la calidad de la gestión empresarial en el ámbito vasco y aporta un estudio empírico al objeto de que los directivos tengan mayor información antes de tomar sus decisiones. En concreto se analizan las diferentes prácticas de gestión en las empresas vascas bajo el prisma de los Criterios Agente Modelo EFQM de excelencia empresarial. Los resultados son fruto del trabajo de campo realizado mediante encuestas a altos directivos de una muestra aleatoria de casi mil empresas, representativa del tejido económico de la Comunidad Autónoma del País Vasco.
A INTERPRETAÇÃO CONSTITUCIONAL DO STF EM MATÉRIA DE FEDERALISMO FISCAL: UMA ANÁLISE CRÍTICA DOS PRECEDENTES E TENDÊNCIAS DECISÓRIAS NOS CASOS DE REPARTIÇÃO DE RECEITAS (2014-2024)
Authors: Fonseca Karina Coutinho da
Published: February 2025

From the mid-20th century onwards, Brazil experienced a period of intense urbanization and industrialization, driven by government policies to replace and encourage local production. This change, marked by the expansion of workers to urban centers, resulted in socioeconomic disparities that persist to this day. The inequality in the distribution of resources, with the concentration of funding and talent in certain regions, exacerbates existing disparities and hinders the creation of a more equitable scientific ecosystem. To overcome these challenges, aggravated by Brazil's vast territorial extension, the country has implemented several strategies that consider the fundamental objectives of the Republic; one of them is revenue sharing and tax incentives. Despite this, the interpretation given by the Supreme Federal Court, especially in emblematic cases such as ADI 5.929, suggests a tendency to prioritize economic efficiency over regional assets. The role of Brazilian fiscal federalism in overcoming regional asymmetries and its real effectiveness are the subjects of investigation in this article. To this end, the hypothetical-deductive method was developed and the research technique was bibliographical survey, documentary analysis and case study. Regarding the proposed methodology, the study will be based on the analysis of decisions handed down by the Supreme Federal Court, in terms of general repercussion, in the last 10 years (period from 2014 to 2024), with a specific focus on issues related to fiscal federalism and revenue sharing mechanisms. The second methodological moment will consist of an in-depth qualitative analysis of the interpretative methods used by the STF, using the content analysis techniques proposed by Laurence Bardin, adapted to the legal context. This stage will include the identification and categorization of the different hermeneutic methods used by the Court, such as systematic, teleological, historical and literal interpretation, as well as the analysis of how these methods relate to the results of the decisions in terms of their impact on fiscal federalism.
The State of Stroke in Somalia: Scoping Review
Authors: Hassan Mohamed Sheikh
Published: February 2025

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally, with limited data available on its burden in Somalia. Stroke presents a significant public health concern in Somalia. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on stroke including stroke, risk factors, prevalence, and challenges of stroke care in Somalia, identifying knowledge gaps and informing future research directions.

Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases (e.g., Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase) was conducted using relevant keywords related to stroke and Somalia. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting on stroke epidemiology, risk factors, presentations, diagnosis, treatment, or outcomes in a Somali population.

Results: The review identified limited number of studies investigating stroke in Somalia. Almost all studies were conducted in single centers. There were no nationwide studies on stroke in the country. The majority of the studies focused on stroke prevalence, presentations, risk factors, and outcomes. Studies reported a high prevalence of stroke, with higher rates of hemorrhagic stroke compared to global average. The study identified major stroke risk factors included Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, substance abuse, cardiac abnormalities, and previous stroke/TIA. Limited access to healthcare and delayed diagnosis were highlighted as significant challenges. Challenges of stroke care in Somalia is multifactorial including Limited access to healthcare, Scarcity of advanced imaging technique, and lack of public education about stroke symptoms and risk factors.

Conclusion: This scoping review identified a limited body of research on stroke in Somalia. Existing studies suggest a significant stroke burden with unique characteristics. Further research is warranted to understand the specific epidemiology, risk factors, and optimal management strategies for stroke in the Somali context. This knowledge is crucial for developing targeted interventions andimproving stroke care in Somalia.