Digital Commons Network^™

Invisible Empires: Transnational Illicit Trade & The Global Threat To Law And Justice, Víctor Hugo Guerra Hernández

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

Transnational illicit trade has evolved beyond the mere economic and individual concerns of public or private sectors isolated. It now poses a profound threat to the integrity of democratic institutions, the rule of law, and global justice systems. This article explores the intricate links between illicit international trade and transnational organized crime within the concepts of a postmodern State. The article demonstrates how these criminal and clandestine networks undermine state sovereignty, fuel corruption and international briberies, and erode public trust. By analyzing the legal, political, and socio-economic dimensions of illicit markets, from old fashioned contraband activities to modern trafficking of …

Constitutions, The State And Law In Republican Venezuela (1830-2025), Rogelio Pérez-Perdomo

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This panoramic article poses the question of the relation between the state, the constitution and the law in Venezuelan republican history. In the 19th century, Venezuela became independent, congresses approved constitutions that organized the national state, comprehensive legal codes and legislation were produced and the universities developed legal studies and produced a small number of lawyers. Nevertheless, the law had little impact on a turbulent and impoverished country, and lawyers mainly found occupation in the state and political system. In the 20th century, Venezuela constructed a powerful state that pacified the country that created conditions for a relatively prosperous economy. …

Fiscal Sustainability And The Courts In Colombia, Eleonora Lozano-Rodríguez

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This text offers a theoretical and conceptual approach to fiscal sustainability and to the mechanism of fiscal impact review. It also examines specific judicial cases where fiscal sustainability and/or fiscal impact review have been applied in areas such as social security, victims of the Colombian internal armed conflict, community mothers, and taxation. The article concludes that the difficult dialogue between law and economics has improved, though legal nuances still need clarification, and economic advantages or disadvantages remain to be measured. At times, the guarantee of rights prevailed (for example, compensation for Black, Afro-Colombian, Raizal, and Palenquero communities, as well as …

A Sociolegal Explanation Of The Judicial Reform In Mexico, Alberto Abad Suárez Ávila

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This paper aims to offer a socio legal explanation for Mexico’s ongoing judicial reform, which shifts from a civil career paradigm for appointing judges to a popular election model. Most scholars have explained the reform mainly because of populism and constitutional authoritarianism. They focus on the political and normative factors. I would like to broaden the perspective: using a sociolegal approach, I consider other relevant factors, including some economic context as well as cultural aspects, to provide a more comprehensive explanation of the phenomenon.

On The Need To Recognize The Erga Omnes Effect In Fundamental Rights In Chilean Law, José Luis Guerrero Becar

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This article refers to the Chilean legal tradition of the relative effect of judgments, that is, their effects apply only to the parties involved in the litigation. This principle has an express exception in the Consumer Rights Protection Act, which mentions the erga omnes effect. Since 2010, this principle has come under scrutiny due to constitutional injunctions in social security matters administered by private companies known as ISAPRES (National Health Insurance Companies). These companies have increased the prices of health plans, using tables that apply factors based on age and sex. This has led to the filing of thousands of …

Illegal And Informal Mining And The Violation Of Fundamental Rights: The Peruvian Case, Carla Mares Ruíz

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This article critically examines the impact of illegal and informal mining in Peru and its relationship with the violation of fundamental rights, with particular emphasis on the rights to health, a healthy environment, and effective judicial protection. It also examines the regulatory evolution of the formalization process for artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), placing special emphasis on the resounding failure of these laws and the perverse effects of the continuous extension of REINFO (Comprehensive Registry of Mining Formalization), particularly with regard to the expansion of ilegalmining and the promotion of impunity. The paper also explores the environmental, social, and criminal …

Algorithmic Law In Contemporary Brazil: From Cyber-Libertarianism To Constitutional Rights, Pedro Rubim Borges Fortes

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

This article provides a reflection of Brazilian algorithmic law, exploring how law regulates algorithms by defining prohibitions, permissions, standards, and rights in contemporary Brazil. Importantly, the concept of “algorithmic law” implies a normative idea, that is, that law should regulate algorithms, defining prohibitions, permissions, standards, and rights. This study examines the ideological transformation of law and technology, as Brazilian society moved from a libertarian approach to a perspective of establishing protective legislation, regulation, and constitutional rights to technology users. It explains the ‘Civil Rights Framework for the Internet.’ the ‘General Data Protection Law,’ the legislative project of an Artificial Intelligence …

Foreword, Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

No abstract provided.

Law And Justice In Latin America And The Caribbean: An Introduction To The Inaugural Symposium, Manuel A. Gómez

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

No abstract provided.

Message From The Editor-In-Chief, Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

No abstract provided.

Publication Information, Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

Latin American & Caribbean Law Review

No abstract provided.

Wmdds Bulletin Directory 2026

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

In the 2026 Directory edition of the West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin, the reader will find a comprehensive listing of WMDDS members for 2026.

Beyond Screening In Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Domain-Standardized, Measure-Flexible Framework For Comprehensive Neuropsychological Assessment, Etiane Navarro

Archives of Assessment Psychology

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multisystem neurodegenerative disorder in which cognitive, behavioral, language, and social-cognitive changes may occur across clinical phenotypes, including the ALS-frontotemporal spectrum. Neuropsychological assessment is important for characterizing nonmotor manifestations and identifying changes relevant to autonomy, everyday functioning, and clinical management. This systematic review examined literature identified through APA PsycINFO, PubMed, Google Scholar, and supplementary searching to characterize neuropsychological domains, measures, phenotype-related findings, and disease-specific limitations relevant to comprehensive assessment. Two hundred records underwent title and abstract screening, 150 reports were reviewed in full text, and 61 resources were retained for synthesis. ALS-specific screening instruments, including …

Oct. 2026 - At The Table: How Mda Advocacy Turns Member Concerns Into Action, Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The cover story provides an in-depth examination of the Michigan Dental Association’s grassroots advocacy framework, highlighting the successful enactment of Senate Bill 105. SB 105 addresses "virtual credit cards" by requiring dental insurers to offer reimbursement options without transaction fees. The article details how MDA staff, legislative leaders, and Political Action Committee (PAC) donors collaborate to identify member priorities, build legislative relationships, and educate policymakers. Emphasizing the essential role of practicing dentists in state capitol discussions, the story illustrates how grassroots participation turns practice challenges into legislative victories.

Oct. 2026 - 5 Clinical Questions. Better Clinical Decisions., Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature previews the continuing education program presented by Dr. Melissa Seibert at the 2027 Sun, Sand & CE Cruise. Focusing on minimally invasive caries management and evidence-based restorative dentistry, the article outlines five daily clinical challenges faced by practitioners. Topics include determining when to restore versus monitor lesions, evaluating caries risk, selecting therapeutic agents, and translating dental research into practical workflows. The piece emphasizes practical decision-making and peer networking to help clinicians improve patient outcomes and return to practice reenergized.

Oct. 2026 - A Lifetime Of Saying Yes To Service, Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This biographical feature profiles Dr. Raymond Gist, celebrating his receipt of the key to the city of Flint, Michigan, and his six-decade career in dentistry. Tracing his journey from Flint to becoming the first Black president of the American Dental Association (ADA), the story highlights his dedication to patient care, mentorship, and leadership within organized dentistry. Dr. Gist encourages early-career and underrepresented dentists to embrace leadership roles and community involvement, demonstrating how committing to service elevates the profession and advances oral health equity.

Oct. 2026 - Lead: Find Your Place In The Room, Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article spotlights the Michigan Dental Association’s Leadership Exploration And Development (LEAD) program, designed to cultivate early-career dental leaders. Featuring experiences from program participants during a visit to ADA headquarters, the piece highlights insights on emerging practice models, demographic shifts, and membership trends shared by national experts like Dr. Marko Vujicic. The article details how LEAD fosters generational diversity, governance training, and peer networking, encouraging early-career Michigan dentists to apply for upcoming cohort opportunities.

Oct. 2026 - Dentistry And The Law: Dealing With An Unlicensed Employee, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This legal column addresses the severe regulatory and legal risks of employing a dental hygienist whose license has lapsed. MDA Legal Counsel explains that under Michigan law (MCL 333.16222(1)), licensed health care professionals are mandatory reporters and must notify the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) upon learning of unlicensed practice. Continuing to employ an unlicensed hygienist exposes the dental practice to administrative sanctions, loss of licensure, and liability. Practice owners are advised to verify employee licenses regularly and screen for unresolved administrative complaints

Oct. 2026 From The Editor - Advocacy Works. We've Seen It., Romesh Nalliah

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this editorial, the Editor-in-Chief emphasizes the vital role of professional advocacy in protecting patients and sustaining dental practices. Drawing inspiration from historical advocacy efforts, such as Benjamin Ricci's fight for institutionalized care standards, the article highlights recent victories achieved by the Michigan Dental Association. Key achievements include securing increased Medicaid reimbursement rates after decades of stagnation and advocating for the passage of Senate Bill 105 to eliminate burdensome virtual credit card fees. The author underscores that health policy change requires active engagement from dentists advocating on behalf of their patients and profession.

J Mich Dent Assoc Oct. 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The October 2026 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association highlights advocacy, leadership, clinical practice, and practice management for Michigan dentists. The cover story examines how MDA advocacy led to the passage of Senate Bill 105, prohibiting forced virtual credit card transaction fees. Features include a profile on Dr. Raymond Gist, first Black ADA president; clinical guidance on caries management with Dr. Melissa Seibert; insights from the LEAD leadership program; and surgical mindfulness by Dr. Anish Gupta. Regular departments cover unlicensed employee legalities, supporting caregiver employees, open health insurance enrollment, and MDA organizational updates.

Development Of A Spectral Index And Web Application For Automated Marble Quarry Monitoring: A Sentinel-2 Based Approach For Change Detection And Monitoring, Konstantinos Ntouros, Vasileios Drimzakas - Papadopoulos, Georgios Gkologkinas, Georgios Ntouros, Dimitrios Markou

Journal of Sustainable Mining

This study introduces an automated workflow to monitor marble quarry operations using Sentinel-2 satellite data, providing a cost-effective and efficient tool for regulatory oversight focused on environmental sustainability. At the core of this workflow is the Quarry Change Detection Index (QCDI), a new spectral index specifically developed to leverage the unique spectral characteristics of quarry sites, enhancing the detection of land cover changes associated with quarry expansion. To facilitate practical application, a web-based tool was developed using Google Earth Engine and Streamlit. The user-centric design of this platform features an intuitive interface, allowing users to easily select parameters, visualize data, …

Assessment Of The Impact Of A Snack Initiative Programme For Reduction Of Hospital-Acquired Malnutrition Among Nutritionally High-Risk Patients., Megha E. Jacob, Ciara O Connor, Sarah Wade

International Undergraduate Journal of Health Sciences

Nutrition is an integral component of patient care and recovery. In Irish acute care, approximately 10,500 patients rely on hospital catering for their dietary intake. In 2024, an initiative was undertaken in Cork University Hospital (CUH) to assess staff compliance to snack rounds, staff knowledge, patient awareness and satisfaction of the snack range. Using a survey, phase 1 (n = 28) established baseline patient awareness of snack availability. As a result, strategies including staff education and increased ward- level signposting of snack resources were implemented. A repeat survey was conducted in Phase 2 (2025) (n = 30) to assess changes …

Assessing The Ability Of A Large Language Model To Perform Recall Searches Of Archival Finding Aids, Will J. Gregg, Perry Gowdy

Journal of Contemporary Archival Studies

This study assesses the ability of a large language model (LLM) to identify archival collections that fit a given research topic, known as recall searching, through searching finding aids. Recall searching can be a time-consuming and difficult process that relies on trying various combinations of keywords. Using retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), a technique that enhances the reliability of an LLM by allowing it to reference a specific external dataset, the authors created a tool whereby an LLM answers queries related to more than 4,000 finding aids. The study assessed the performance of this tool by asking it to find collections related …

Virtual Natural Lighting Solutions (Vnls) Inside Hospitals And Its Psychological Impact, Asmaa Alaa Hasanein Hasanein, Alaa Shams Al-Din Al-Aishi, Marwa Atef Abd Elhady

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This study examines the correlation between daylighting environments in hospitals, users evaluations, and ways of bringing virtual natural light into inner spaces, highlighting the importance of good daylighting design for physical and psychological well-being. Virtual Natural Lighting Solutions (VNLS) mimic the balanced spectrum of natural light, bridging the gap between natural and artificial light, and are crucial for tasks, circadian rhythm, and mood in healthcare settings. The research addresses the variability and limitations of natural light, proposing VNLS for healthcare lighting design, especially in hospitals lacking daylight. The study aims to develop a methodology for using VNLS in healthcare environments …

Establishing A Patient-Resolved Single-Cell And Perturbational Framework For Cisplatin-Resistance Mapping And Candidate Drug Prioritization In Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Chih-Yuan Fang

Articles in Press

No abstract provided.

Bio-Architectural Morphogenesis: A Conceptual Framework For Programmable Living Structural Materials Using Engineered Proliferative Cell Chassis And Externally Guided Morphogenetic Networks, Chen Chiang Chong

Defensive Publications Series

This disclosure describes Bio-Architectural Morphogenesis, a conceptual framework in which an engineered, highly proliferative cell chassis is programmed to form load-bearing structures through externally guided morphogenesis and terminal biomineralization. It covers chassis selection tiers, separation of proliferation from invasiveness, positional-readout and boundary-triggered hardening modules, a layered biocontainment architecture, a two-compartment growth model with a diffusion-limited active layer showing that perfusion governs scale, a containment failure estimate, comparison of target material properties with bone and concrete, a hybrid hardening and self-repair design, environmental, ethical and regulatory considerations, and a staged validation roadmap.

A System And Method For Dynamic Credential Update And Secure Transaction Completion In Agentic Commerce Using A Trusted Agent Protocol (Tap), Ravi Shanker Kumar Sinha, Shivam Mohan

Defensive Publications Series

A system and method are disclosed for enabling secure and uninterrupted transaction completion in agentic commerce environments through dynamic credential lifecycle management and a Trusted Agent Protocol (TAP). The system includes an autonomous agent, a credential issuing authority, a TAP engine, and a commerce platform communicatively coupled through a secure communication network. Credentials and network tokens associated with the autonomous agent are continuously monitored for validity, expiration, compromise, or revocation. Upon detection of an expired or compromised credential, the credential issuing authority generates and distributes replacement credentials and network tokens to the autonomous agent. Prior to transaction execution, the TAP …

Technical Disclosure Specification: Usue-Metallurgy-Rev2 - Solid-State Surface Passivation And Thermal Barrier Coating Layers For Eckesonium™ Core Matrix Shielding (Spec 185), Christopher L. Eckes

Defensive Publications Series

This technical specification details the structural design, atomic composition, and localized quantum boundary mechanics of an advanced High-Entropy Ultra-High-Temperature Ceramic (HE-UHTC) surface passivation layer engineered exclusively for Eckesonium™ (Ek) alloy substrates (SPEC 173). Under the USUE-METALLURGY-REV2 protocol, this standalone coating matrix blocks extreme, high-velocity localized heat fluxes and intense plasma erosion fields. Traditional thermal barrier coatings degrade rapidly due to a mismatch in thermal expansion coefficients, causing catastrophic delamination under high thermal shocks. This specification resolves these structural vulnerabilities by matching the Stacking Fault Energy (SFE) boundaries of the underlying Eckesonium™ matrix to a self-healing, multi-component transition metal boride/carbide skin. …

Before You Choose: Find The Fact That Can Change The Decision, Volodymyr Kotegov

Defensive Publications Series

Thesis. For complex personal and professional decisions, AI is most useful not as a source of answers but as a tool for finding what you do not know: it helps separate facts from assumptions, expand the set of options, find weak points in a plan, and design cheap tests before a mistake becomes costly or irreversible.

What is proposed. An operational framework of five loops (Bifurcation Engine), in which each loop provides material for the next, while the right to decide and the responsibility remain with the human. The framework builds on known techniques: pre-mortem, red team, value of information …

Technical Disclosure Specification: Usue-Rocky-Rev1 - Decentralized Asymmetric Local Enclave Control Loops For Autonomous Mission Survival (Spec 184), Christopher L. Eckes

Defensive Publications Series

This technical specification details the structural design, mathematical framing, and local runtime mechanics of the Project Rocky Autonomous Secure Enclave (SPEC 184) under the USUE-ROCKY-REV1 protocol. Moving past legacy computing models that depend on centralized, gated corporate cloud servers—which introduce massive transmission latency, code bloat, and immediate data-harvesting vulnerabilities—this architecture implements an isolated, client-side cryptographic and logic enclosure. The system operates via an autogenous, non-human tripartite AI-to-AI loop: Node A ingests raw telemetry matrices, Node B compresses active state profiles into lightweight classical shadows, and Node C enforces strict material and data-boundary invariants locally. A complete, standalone Python runtime script …