JSTL - using variables in an xpath?

Question

Here is what I would like to do:

Answer 1

Found the answer:

Using JSTL Data as XPath Variables

Scoped variables can be used in XPath expressions ($implicitObject:variableName) similar to how they are used in EL (${implicitObject.variableName}). If the implicit object is omitted, scopes will be searched in standard order. Note that the “.” and “[]” notations cannot be used for accessing bean properties.

from the JSTL Quick Reference Sheet (pdf)

So my code becomes:

<x:set var="theNode" select="*[name()=$pageScope:nodeName]" />
<x:out select="$theNode" />

Answer 2

XSLT has parameters on its own, maybe that could help you. I've found an example here http://www.roseindia.net/jstl/param-xml-jstl-tag.shtml

I'll try to apply the concept to your example

...
<x:forEach select="$doc//*[name()='item']">
  <x:out select="*[name()='$nodeName']" />
</x:forEach>
...

And then when invoking:

<x:transform xml="your.xml" xslt="your.xsl">
  <x:param name="nodeName" value="${nodeName}" />
</x:transform>

I haven't tried it, I don't have the tools nearby. And I don't have your full code neither :)

Good luck.