bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
External Validation of Updated Prediction Models for Neurological Outcomes at 90 Days in Patients With Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Nishioka Norihiro , Yamada Tomoki , Nakao Shunichiro , Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Park Changhwi , Nishimura Tetsuro , Ishibe Takuya , Yamakawa Kazuma , Kiguchi Takeyuki , Kishimoto Masafumi , Ninomiya Kohei , Ito Yusuke , Sogabe Taku , Morooka Takaya , Sakamoto Haruko , Hironaka Yuki , Onoe Atsunori , Matsuyama Tasuku , Okada Yohei , Matsui Satoshi , Yoshimura Satoshi , Kimata Shunsuke , Kawai Shunsuke , Makino Yuto , Zha Ling , Kiyohara Kosuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Iwami Taku ,   the CRITICAL Study Group Investigators
Published: May 2024

Background

Few prediction models for individuals with early‐stage out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) have undergone external validation. This study aimed to externally validate updated prediction models for OHCA outcomes using a large nationwide dataset.

Methods and Results

We performed a secondary analysis of the JAAM‐OHCA (Comprehensive Registry of In‐Hospital Intensive Care for Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest Survival and the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest) registry. Previously developed prediction models for patients with cardiac arrest who achieved the return of spontaneous circulation were updated. External validation was conducted using data from 56 institutions from the JAAM–OHCA registry. The primary outcome was a dichotomized 90‐day cerebral performance category score. Two models were updated using the derivation set (n=3337). Model 1 included patient demographics, prehospital information, and the initial rhythm upon hospital admission; Model 2 included information obtained in the hospital immediately after the return of spontaneous circulation. In the validation set (n=4250), Models 1 and 2 exhibited a C‐statistic of 0.945 (95% CI, 0.935–0.955) and 0.958 (95% CI, 0.951–0.960), respectively. Both models were well‐calibrated to the observed outcomes. The decision curve analysis showed that Model 2 demonstrated higher net benefits at all risk thresholds than Model 1. A web‐based calculator was developed to estimate the probability of poor outcomes (
https://pcas‐prediction.shinyapps.io/90d_lasso/
).

Conclusions

The updated models offer valuable information to medical professionals in the prediction of long‐term neurological outcomes for patients with OHCA, potentially playing a vital role in clinical decision‐making processes.
Reading 2 Sam. 18:1–19:9 through the Korean Context “United yet Divided”
Authors: Kim Daewook
Published: May 2024

In this paper, I suggest that the narrative of 2 Sam. 18:1–19:9 is read in the Korean context of being “united yet divided” through which K.P. Hong illuminates the duality between the ideal and the real in Judah’s relationship with Israel. The opposition between David and Joab represents the dual circumstance of a community seeking union and simultaneously confronting division. Such duality is also observed in the distinction drawn between Ahimaaz and the Cushite. The violence in the narrative functions significantly to otherize Absalom and establish who We are. Also, the violence is intimately associated with Deut. 21:22–23 and the divine will. Therefore, a reading of this narrative through the Korean context can offer a means of resolving the difficulties of 2 Sam. 18:1–19:9 and generate the possibility of a new interpretation of the text in its present form.
“Is it Right for You to be Angry?” Gaslighting and Pathologizing the Resisting Voice in Jonah 4:1–11
Authors: Wong Edward
Published: May 2024

It is not without reason that generations of interpreters have often characterized Jonah in a negative light. This paper argues that the rhetorical workings of Jon. 4:1–11 can be seen as a gaslighting strategy, as the text guides its readers to delegitimize and pathologize the resistant voice of Jonah to elevate yhwh’s universalistic and impartial mercy. Drawing upon research literature in gaslighting studies and discussing how gaslighting can be a helpful lens for analyzing ancient texts, I explore how the text utilizes the voice of yhwh to subject Jonah to a “crazy-making” process by sidestepping the issue, attributing flaws to Jonah’s logic and emotions, and finally silencing the prophet with the deliberate ending in the coda.
Description of Pauronemoides siddiqii n. gen., n. sp. (Tylenchomorpha, Paurodontidae), a morphological and molecular phylogenetic study
Authors: Amiri Bonab Mohammad , Bazeghi Fatemeh , Gharibazadeh Farshad , Atighi Mohammad Reza , Kanzaki Natsumi , Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Pedram Majid
Published: May 2024

Three populations of Pauronemoides siddiqii n. gen., n. sp. were recovered from three different locations in northwestern and northern Iran from bark and soil samples. The new genus was described and illustrated based upon morphological and molecular characteristics. Pauronemoides n. gen. belongs to the family Paurodontidae and is characterised by the medium-sized body, asymmetrical knobs in stylet base, stem-like extension into intestine, post-vulval uterine sac (PUS) absent or rudimentary, different tail tip shape between sexes, and bursa enveloping tail or reaching to the tail end. The type species, Pauronemoides siddiqii n. gen., n. sp., is mainly characterised by 752-1281 μm body length in females and 660-1085 μm in males, six equally-sized lips, stylet 9-11 μm long with asymmetrical knobs, six incisures in lateral fields forming five bands, three of which (two outers and one central) are wider, and variably lengthened stem-like extension projecting into the intestine. Vulva situated posteriorly (V = 87.7-91.7%), PUS absent. Conical tail with widely rounded end, having a small mucron at tip in females, males with conical tail ending to a narrower tip and bursa enveloping tail completely. The type species of the new genus was compared with all known species of the genera Prothallonema, Paurodontus, Paurodontoides and Paurodontella. Pauronemoides siddiqii n. gen., n. sp. resembles Prothallonema macrocellum and P. mucronatum by having the bulb extension penetrating into the intestine, dimorphism in tail shape of both sexes and bursa enveloping tail, and Paurodontella iranica by tail shape dimorphism between sexes and bursa ending near tail tip. Therefore, the above-mentioned species are transferred to the new genus as Pauronemoides macrocellus n. gen., n. comb. (= Prothallonema macrocellum), P. mucronatus n. gen., n. comb. (= Prothallonema mucronatum) and P. iranicus n. gen., n. comb. (= Paurodontella iranica). In addition to morphological comparisons, molecular phylogenetic analyses were performed using two sequences of small subunit (SSU), and three partial sequences of D2-D3 expansion segments of the large subunit (LSU) rDNA, and the resulting topologies were discussed.
Conversation’s Seedy Underbelly
Authors: Berstler Sam
Published: May 2024

I provide an opinionated discussion of two recent volumes on the structure, ethics, and politics of bad conversations. In Just Words (2019), Mary Kate McGowan argues that despite our best intentions, we sometimes inadvertently bring oppressive norms to bear on our interactions. In Grandstanding (2020), Justin Tosi and Brandon Warmke argue that the human desire to cut a good moral figure before others systematically distorts moral discourse. Though their authors have different political outlooks, both books converge on a similar theme: conversational bad behavior isn’t always just morally obnoxious. It can be silencing.
Investigating the Near-Surface Wind Fields of Downbursts Using a Series of High-Resolution Idealized Simulations
Authors: Moore Andrew
Published: May 2024

Short-lived and poorly organized convective cells, often called weakly forced thunderstorms (WFTs), are a common phenomenon during the warm season across the eastern and southeastern United States. While typically benign, wet downbursts emanating from such convection can have substantial societal impacts, including tree, power line, and property damage from strong outflow winds. Observational studies have documented the occurrence of severe (25.7 m s−1 or higher) wind speeds from wet downbursts, but the frequency of severe downbursts, including the spatial extent and temporal duration of severe winds, remains unclear. The ability for modern observing networks to reliably observe such events is also unknown; however, answering these questions is important for improving forecast skill and verifying convective warnings accurately. This study attempts to answer these questions by drawing statistical inferences from 97 high-resolution idealized simulations of single-cell downburst events. It was found that while 35% of the simulations featured severe winds, the spatial and temporal extent of such winds is limited—O(10) km2 or less and persisting for around 5 min on average. Furthermore, through a series of simulated network experiments, it is postulated that the probability that a modern mesonet observes a severe wind gust given a severe downburst is around 1%. From these results, a statistical argument is made that most tree impacts associated with pulse convection are likely caused by subsevere winds. Several implications for forecasting, warning, and verifying WFT events fall out from these discussions.
Photobiomodulation of Gingival Cells Challenged with Viable Oral Microbes
Authors: Tanum J. , Kim H.E. , Lee S.M. , Kim A. , Korostoff J. , Hwang G.
Published: May 2024

The oral cavity, a unique ecosystem harboring diverse microorganisms, maintains health through a balanced microflora. Disruption may lead to disease, emphasizing the protective role of gingival epithelial cells (GECs) in preventing harm from pathogenic oral microbes. Shifting GECs’ response from proinflammatory to antimicrobial could be a novel strategy for periodontitis. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), a nonpharmacologic host modulatory approach, is considered an alternative to drugs. While the host cell response induced by a single type of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) was widely studied, this model does not address the cellular response to intact microbes that exhibit multiple PAMPs that might modulate the response. Inspired by this, we developed an in vitro model that simulates direct interactions between host cells and intact pathogens and evaluated the effect of PBMT on the response of human gingival keratinocytes (HGKs) to challenge viable oral microbes at both the cellular and molecular levels. Our data demonstrated that LED pretreatment on microbially challenged HGKs with specific continuous wavelengths (red: 615 nm; near-infrared: 880 nm) induced the production of various antimicrobial peptides, enhanced cell viability and proliferation, promoted reactive oxygen species scavenging, and down-modulated proinflammatory activity. The data also suggest a potential explanation regarding the superior efficacy of near-infrared light treatment compared with red light in enhancing antimicrobial activity and reducing cellular inflammation of HGKs. Taken together, the findings suggest that PBMT enhances the overall barrier function of gingival epithelium while minimizing inflammation-mediated breakdown of the underlying structures.
Creating a “Space In-Between”: Learning on the Physical–Hybrid–Virtual Continuum
Authors: Nussli Natalie , Oh Kevin
Published: May 2024

This mixed-methods study captures multiple stakeholders’ voices and experiences of a hybrid-flexible (HyFlex) learning environment. It juxtaposes different perceptions of learning experiences, equivalency, and interactions. Tutor strategies to facilitate communication across space are explored. Thirty-six undergraduate students experienced the HyFlex model with two synchronous participation modes (i.e., on-site vs. synchronous remote) and an asynchronous option. The study explores the HyFlex setting from three different perspectives. A survey captured students’ perceptions of their motivation, learning, engagement levels, ease of communication, and collaboration experiences within or across spaces. An observation report sheds light on strategies to mediate the transition between the physical and virtual space. A tutor’s journal provides the perspective of teaching on the physical–hybrid–virtual continuum. Meeting students’ needs equally well in the physical and virtual space emerges as a key challenge. The article contributes to the research about hybrid education environments and the intentional planning of versatile interactional spaces.
Effects of an executive function programme (PEFEN) on preschool children: a pilot study / Efectos de un programa para la estimulación de las funciones ejecutivas (PEFEN) en alumnos de preescolar: un estudio piloto
Authors: Pérez-Marfil María Nieves , Fernández-Alcántara Manuel , López-Benítez Raúl , Pérez-García Miguel , Pérez-García María Purificación , Cruz-Quintana Francisco
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to test the effectiveness of a programme for the stimulation of executive functions ( Programa para la Estimulación de las Funciones Ejecutivas — PEFEN) in preschool children (aged five years) with no pathologies. A total of 40 children participated. They were distributed into two groups (intervention and control groups) and were evaluated at two different moments in time (before and after the intervention) using the Child Neuropsychological Maturity Questionnaire (CUMANIN) and the Behavior Rating Instrument of Executive Function-Preschool (BRIEF-P). The programme’s duration was three months. The results revealed statistically significant differences between both groups in the subscales of psychomotricity, spatial structuring and visual perception of the CUMANIN as well as in the emotional control subscale of BRIEF-P. In conclusion, the intervention group presented higher scores in different neuropsychological domains related to executive functions. This research seems to suggest that programmes such as PEFEN may be useful to improve and stimulate the EFs of normal developing children who do not present any difficulties.
Subjective orgasm experience in different-sex and same-sex couples: A dyadic approach
Authors: Pérez-Amorós Carlos , Sierra Juan Carlos , Mangas Pablo
Published: May 2024

The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the perception, sensation and/or evaluation of orgasm from a psychological point of view, representing an important construct of sexual functioning rarely studied under a dyadic approach. This study analyzed SOE in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation in 179 different-sex and same-sex couples. The results indicated the absence of differences in intradyadic discrepancies in SOE dimensions in both sexual contexts, varying according to the type of couple. Besides, the study also highlights the influence of some of these discrepancies of SOE in solitary masturbation on SOE discrepancies in sexual relationships among the members of male-female and female-female couples. Furthermore, the study revealed that the intensity of partners' orgasm experience during solitary masturbation influences the intensity of SOE during sexual relationships, with variations observed based on the type of couple. These findings highlight the importance of considering SOE from a dyadic approach, with the association of orgasmic experience in both sexual contexts gaining relevance, differing according to the couple type. The results also point to the clinical implications of the dyadic effects of such an individual practice as solitary masturbation on shared sexual experiences.
Comparison between XGboost model and logistic regression model for predicting sepsis after extremely severe burns
Authors: Liu Peng , Li Xiao-Jian , Zhang Tao , Huang Yi-Hui
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare an Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGboost) model with a multivariable logistic regression (LR) model for their ability to predict sepsis after extremely severe burns.

Methods

For this observational study, patient demographic and clinical information were collected from medical records. The two models were evaluated using area under curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Of the 103 eligible patients with extremely severe burns, 20 (19%) were in the sepsis group, and 83 (81%) in the non-sepsis group. The LR model showed that age, admission time, body index (BI), fibrinogen, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were risk factors for sepsis. Comparing AUC of the ROC curves, the XGboost model had a higher predictive performance (0.91) than the LR model (0.88). The SHAP visualization tool indicated fibrinogen, NLR, BI, and age were important features of sepsis in patients with extremely severe burns.

Conclusions

The XGboost model was superior to the LR model in predictive efficacy. Results suggest that, fibrinogen, NLR, BI, and age were correlated with sepsis after extremely severe burns.
OD Applications in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jong-in
Published: May 2024

This report introduces some OD intervention in Korea and demonstrates how OD can be applied in a broad range of cultural settings. It sketches the historical development of OD in Korea. It also collects and analyzes 20 Korean OD applications in the public sector as well as in business. The key findings are: (1) OD applications in Korea are relatively diverse. (2) Team-building, technostructural, and system-building activities are dominant in Korean OD applications. (3) In the public sector, the cases center on technostructural activities. (4) With some reservations, the success rates of Korean OD applications are quite high.
Bureaucracy and Democracy: An Essay in Memory of Dwight Waldo
Authors: Werlin Herbert H.
Published: May 2024

This article introduces a unified theory of administration and politics called Political Elasticity (PE) Theory, thereby linking political science (PS) to public administration (PA). The history of PE theory, which emerged from Dwight Waldo's graduate seminar in 1960-61 at the University of California, Berkeley, is presented and is shown as being able to unravel “the mysteries of development,” especially the relationship of bureaucracy and democracy. PE Theory includes a distinction between primary (liberal) democracy and secondary (classical) democracy. The implications of this theory are here briefly presented, concentrating on questions in administrative theory raised by Waldo during his six decades of studying and teaching public administration.
Hrm Practices in the Public and Private Sectors: Differences and Similarities
Authors: Harel Gedaliahu H. , Tzafrir Shay S.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine empirically if there are differences in the way that HRM practices are performed in the private and public sectors of the economy. The theoretical base of this investigation is anchored on the proposition that some HR practices are always better than others and that all organizations should adopt these “high performance work practices.” In recent years, organizations in the public and private sectors have witnessed many changes in their environment. These pressures have pushed organizations from both sectors to continuously improve their performance. The authors focused on the macro-level of the organization and its productivity. A total of 102 questionnaires were completed and returned by human resource VPs, representing 44 percent of the firms contacted.

The hypotheses were tested using data describing human resource management operation. The authors found that public sector management emphasizes those HRM domains that deal with employee selection and grievance procedures because of the sector's high level of unionization. On the other hand, private sector management emphasizes employee growth and pay for performance. Nevertheless, the authors also found evidence that the public sector is “moving” closer and closer to the private sector model by adopting “high performance work practices” in order to overcome the turbulent environment and public demand.
Virtue Ethics: A Policy Recommendation
Authors: Lynch Thomas D. , Lynch Cynthia E.
Published: May 2024

This article presents a moral intervention theory designed to morally upgrade ethical thought and moral behavior in public administration. The theory is, based on bringing virtue ethics into the public management arena using a ONENESS ethical paradigm firmly rooted in the literature of public administration. The theory suggests four key independent variables, that would lead to the desired moral upgrading of our organizations,. The article explains the theory in such a way that other researchers, can go the next step of empirically testing the theory to determine its validity and usefulness,.
Book Review: Making Social Science Matter: Why Social Inquiry Fails and How it Can Succeed Again
Authors: Clegg Stewart
Published: May 2024

This book is a thoughtful antidote to the simple views that see social science as a science like any other-positivistic science. It begins with a well-grounded empirical case of the development and application of expert knowledge, then moves through consideration of context and values, the of power, and a reconsideration of the Greek roots of modern knowledge. It concludes with some salient observations based on the author's own feedback and research practice.
Reinventing Government: A Preliminary Examination of the Georgia Initiative for Children and Families
Authors: Argyle Nolan J. , Marlowe Brian
Published: May 2024

This study examines the early efforts and consequences of one effort at "reinventing government:" building collaborative partnerships at the county level. It looks at the early implementation of the Georgia Policy Council for Children and Families Act, an act designed to return decision-making to the local level. The study assesses the potential of this program for improving policy concerning children and families and finds that the devolution of authority to local communities, called for in this act, is working. The study concludes with insights gained concerning what does and does not work in implementing governmental reform.
Administrative Legacies of the Persian World-State Empire: Implications for Modern Public Administration, Part 1
Authors: Farazmand Ali
Published: May 2024

Knowledge about governance and administration is cumulative with strong roots in ancient civilizations. Many of these roots have firm grounding in the ancient Persian Empire whose theory and practice of governance and administration have made immense contributions to world civilizations, their governments, and public administration. By conquering virtually the entire known world of antiquity in a single generation, the Persians changed the world's political and administrative history forever. Their legacies are both widespread and profound. This article discusses some of these legacies whose impacts and implications transcended faraway cultures and administrative systems and are preserved in various forms in the modern systems of public administration and governance around the world. Although the pre-Persian, six thousand years of administrative history of Iran is briefly touched as a background, the main focus of this article is on the Achae-menid World-State Empire (559-330 B.C.). By addressing the theory and practice of public administration and governance of the Persian Empire, the article outlines a number of implications for modern public administration. The article does not address the mighty Persian and Sasanian empires of Persia which, along with Rome, divided and ruled the ancient world for the next millennium.
Xenophon'S (The Education of Cyrus) and Ideal Leadership: Lessons for Modern Public Administration
Authors: O'Flannery Jennifer
Published: May 2024

This article addresses exceptional qualities for ideal leadership in public service and administration. It argues that discussions of leadership and civic virtue should include the work of Xenophon, the Greek philosopher, on public education for public service. A student of Socrates, Xenophon (430-355 BC) found personal fulfillment and professional expertise with Cyrus the Great and the Persian Empire. His writings provide a theoretical side of Socrates as well as a practical view of an effective leadership style found in Ancient Persia. While Plato wrote on an ideal government led by a philosopher, Xenophon served as a leader himself and then wrote about the exceptional qualities of leadership he admired in Cyrus the Great. His key work, Cyropaedia(Education of Cyrus) explains the virtues and characteristics of an ideal leader. Education, equality, consensus, justice, and service to state as well as to the broad-based public are the qualities embodied in Cyrus the Great. These values have clear implications for modern public administration. A great body of research has been developed over the years on leadership but perhaps what public leaders need most can be found in the writings of a simple, practical, and virtuous individual, Xenophon who lived 2400 years ago and presented the exceptional characteristics of ideal leadership in Cyrus of Persia.
The Decision-Making Process of the Chinese Government at the County Level
Authors: Zhu Qianwei
Published: May 2024

The model of decision-making process of the Chinese government at the county level is one in which three decision-makers, namely the county committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the county government, and the county people's congress, join together with the party as the most important player. The coexistence of strict structure settled by law and non-strict structure by the party's policies has both advantages and disadvantages in the Chinese context. In a long run, strict structure is a way out for a better decision-making process.
“Crossing A River By Groping for Stones”: Factors Reshaping the Policy Innovation Process for Chinese Water Policies
Authors: Bragg C. Kaye
Published: May 2024

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Chinese leaders initiated a multi-faceted process of reform through agricultural decollectivization, township and village enterprises, market liberalization, and international engagements. On the one hand, these reforms produced a stunning record of economic growth documented in per capita GDP, exports, and foreign capital investments. On the other hand, these reforms produced unforeseen social and political consequences such as tax riots, labor strikes, environmental, anti-corruption, and gender protests. These patterns of conflict are not just responses to the reforms but also redefine the power, authority, and reach of the state. Each pattern weaves a new state-society relationship that is transforming policymaking.

This research examines new patterns of entrepreneurship in the policy debates of the Three Gorges Project since 1986. The study documents innovations initiated by a configuration of actors outside the traditional Chinese organizational and leadership bases. The debates over "transparency in dam construction" and "consultation in resettlement programs" describe high risk entrepreneurship by redefining issues to build a support coalition inside and outside the Chinese political system. New forums develop from intellectual circles, societal-economic interests, international non-governmental organiza-tions, and popular dissent for innovation. This pattern of entrepreneurship is characterized not be a single entrepreneur but by a pooling of resources and power among social actors for innovation.
Current Practices for Involving Citizens in Local Government Budgeting: Moving beyond Method
Authors: Berner Maureen
Published: May 2024

If citizen participation is considered a desirable aspect of good government, how should it be done? This article asks what method is most effective for regular citizen input into policy-making at the local government level from the perspective of government officials using the budget process as an example. City and county managers and budget staff across North Carolina were surveyed on this issue in 1998. While there was no consensus on a practice clearly to adopt or avoid, there was a clear theme concerning approach early and often. The method is found not to be as important as how it is applied. Recommendations for practitioners and researchers are discussed.
Building Sustainable Communities: Leadership Development along the U.S.Mexico Border
Authors: Fredericksen Patricia J.
Published: May 2024

Much attention to revitalization in central urban neighborhoods focuses upon economic development and the infusion of economic capital. Throughout the United States, many organizations and communities have sent their “best and brightest” representatives to various types of leadership training programs. Leadership training, through promising as an investment in human capital, warrants greater attention as a catalyst for social capital. This study explores the potential for social capital development in an ethnically diverse community facing rapid growth, high levels of poverty, unemployment, severe economic disparity and serious environmental threats. Will individuals identified as community leaders, if exposed to general leadership skills training and substantive information about current problems facing the community, develop consensus over goals and a unified a commitment to work together to addressed community problems? Although preliminary results suggest orchestrated cohorts may play less of a role in evolving value consensus than previous personal affiliations like ethnicity, participants reported enhanced relationships.
Strengthening the University – Public Sector Partnership: Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
Authors: Mcdonald Kristien M. , Parkes Sandra J. , Patton W. David
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the relationship between Certified Public Manager (CPM) programs offered through state governments and university public administration programs. In particular, it analyzes how university credit is offered for completion of management development training received in CPM programs. The collaboration between state training agencies and universities has been shown to benefit both parties, and the respective curricula can be complementary rather than competitive. As these relationships become more common, a logical question is likely to arise about whether university credit should be offered for completion of CPM curriculum. Through looking at the various partnership relationships of CPM programs offered in 25 jurisdictions, this paper focuses on whether each CPM program offered university credit, and if so, what its rationale was for doing so, what its criteria for offering that credit was, and what the institutional relationship between the program and universities that accept its CPM program credit looked like. Results show that all programs reviewed are either currently offering credit or plan to in the future based on varied criteria and relationships with universities. Linking CPM programs to university credit could have an influence on the quality of curricula and instruction to make CPM programs a more integral part of graduate education.
Lessons Learned: Assessing the District of Columbia's Certified Public Management Program
Authors: Fairholm Matthew R. , Moe Kari J. , Houghtby-Haddon Natalie K. , Feldman Lisa B.
Published: May 2024

By concentrating on building leadership and management capacity in the middle ranks of the organization, government services will be enhanced and public trust increased. While this proposition makes intuitive sense, it is difficult to verify. However, the District of Columbia government offers an interesting case study in trying to achieve this goal. This paper outlines the history, rationale, and current status of an innovative leadership development strategy for a complex municipal environment. It specifically reviews an assessment of the Program for Excellence in Municipal Management—a training program of the District of Columbia government which meets the criteria of the Certified Public Manager program, implemented by The George Washington University Center for Excellence in Municipal Management. The paper presents lessons learned from the experience to assist government organizations in their transformational efforts. While government training programs are not unique, the DC case is different in that the delivery of the training is conducted through a public-private partnership, is organized for middle management, and the explicit purpose of the training is to enhance public service delivery by giving public managers the tools necessary to work with and through the bureaucracy and organizations of government.
Asian American Employment in the Federal Civil Service
Authors: Kim Chon-Kyun
Published: May 2024

How is Asian American employment in the federal bureaucracy different from other minority employment? DoAsian American employment patterns differ substantially? This paper examines the ways that agency types, occupational structure, and grade levels (especially the SES) are related to Asian American employment patterns in the federal service. Findings indicate that Asian Americans tend to be doing much better than other minorities at every grade level except the SES. While all minorities are severely underrepresented at the top levels, the drop-off in representation of Asian Americans at the top levels is so much more dramatic than for other minority groups. Occupational structure, however, does not appear to be related to underrepresentation of Asians in the senior executive positions. Further, Asian federal civil servants are likely to be overrepresented in certain regulatory, distributive, and independent agencies, where other minorities are underrepresented. The Senior Executive Service (SES) also shows similar trends as other grade levels with regards to agency types.
Successful Transportation Women in A Time of Downsizing
Authors: Schachter Hindy Lauer
Published: May 2024

Traditionally men have dominated professional and managerial positions in state transportation agencies. Particularly after the downsizing in the 1990s these agencies want to develop women to move into the elite sector of the official/administrative ranks. To develop female professionals, agencies need information on the education and job paths women use to gain skills as leaders. This article supplies this information through analyzing strategies used by individual women who attained successful careers in transportation agencies and noting common aspects among them.
How Downsizing Affects Organizational Memory in Government: Some Implications for Professional and Organizational Development
Authors: Rusaw A. Carol
Published: May 2024

This paper examines some ways that downsizing can affect professional and organizational development in government by posing some possible scenarios based on social and organizational theories. The paper maintains that the depletion of social capital in the past two decades may lead to some predictable consequences in the future. For instance, downsizing has necessitated incumbents' having to play multiple and often conflicting roles: a condition that culminates in stress and burnout and, eventually, to turnover. Because organizations carry little promise for continued employment and advancement, career paths will be truncated; “revolving doors” may happen, in which individuals cycle in and out of government service frequently. The removal of individuals with “institutional memory” may deplete the supply of mentors and coaches, who provide both career advice as well as promote a common perspective on organizational problems. The decline in organizational problem solving ability, in turn, can lead to ways to “reinvent” mission and essential programs. This may engender searches for fundamental values, re-constructed heroic stories, and an emphasis on defining and getting “in touch” with vital customers. The latter turn of reinvention is creative rather than destructive, for it provides a means for regenerating a basis of knowledge lost during downsizing. Hence, although downsizing may reduce human resources and fuel organizational decline, ultimately, the decline can lead to re-birth.
Administrative Discretion: Its Use in Budgetary Analysis
Authors: Robbins Donijo
Published: May 2024

The foundation of this research applies the following definition of discretion: the use of individual judgment to make decisions. The literature surrounding budgetary analysis within the public budgetary process, particularly the first two stages, does not explicitly discuss discretion. Therefore, using the definition above coupled with the limited research surrounding discretion, we demonstrate how agencies, budget offices, executives, and legislative bodies use discretion when analyzing the budget. Overall, agencies and departments maintain discretion when they are assertive, politically astute, and when the budget format promotes flexibility. Effective communication and executive support are two factors that seem to result in agency and department budget growth. Agencies are more likely to witness spending decreases, however, when the legislature is dissatisfied with agency performance. In the end, the presence of politics overshadows, and hence limits, discretion.
State Discretion in Welfare Spending: Do Nonprofits Have An Impact?
Authors: Burbridge Lynn C.
Published: May 2024

Using data compiled for the 50 states, this study examines state discretion in welfare programs by defining a set of programs that, in 1995, gave considerable discretion to the states and a set of programs that did not. It explores the effect of nonprofits on discretionary and non-discretionary programs. The study finds that the categorization of programs by degree of discretion is problematic at best, given different forms and avenues for discretion. It also finds that the nonprofit sector had its biggest impact on programs with the most mandates from the federal government.
A Primer for Agent-Based Modeling in Public Administration: Exploring Complexity in “Would-Be” Administrative Worlds
Authors: Kiel L. Douglas
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the basic elements of Agent-Based Models and the implications of this simulation approach for public administration research. The general principles of agent-based modeling are examined with particular attention to the elements of simple rules and emergent behavior. Graphical representations from an agent-based model are provided. Issues of the appropriate application of agent-based modeling are presented. The notion of bureaucracy from the “bottom-up”, or generative public administration, is offered as a means for understanding how the actions of various heterogeneous agents may generate emergent structure and organization. Agent-based modeling provides a novel means for exploring complexity while adding considerable insight into assumptions of rationality and cooperation among human agents.
Coming to Terms with the Complementarity of Agent and Structure
Authors: Jochoms Theo P.C.M. , Rutgers Mark R.
Published: May 2024

This article questions how to conceptualize the relation between different ontologies in the social sciences. Giddens' Structuration Theory is analyzed as an example of an unifying theory linking 'agent' and 'structure' ontologies. The concept of interaction is used to pinpoint Giddens' notion of the complementarity of these two. The resulting ABSTRACT unification does, however, not result in a unified social analysis. Rather it implies that we need to 'bracket' the one or the other approach in empirical observation. This raises the question: What is complementarity? In this article it is argued the notion of complementarity as developed in quantum theory (Q-complementarity) applies to the case at hand. Q-complementarity does not refer to the possible simultaneous attribution of characteristics, but establishes the validity of both attributes for describing reality depending on the circumstances of observation.
Up the Boland: A Crisis of Disengagement
Authors: Gabris Gerald T. , Ihrke Douglas M.
Published: May 2024

The central purpose of this article is to describe what the authors term a “crisis of disengagement.” A crisis of disengagement is defined as the unwillingness of a person, group, or organization to change a chosen course of action, which while initially desirable, is no longer clearly supported as a wise choice by incoming data and feedback. In fact, new data may suggest that continuation along a current path may actually be detrimental to the welfare of the person, group or organization in question. Given this prospect, why are persons, groups and/or organizations so remiss about giving up a particular course of action in the face of conflicting information? This article strives to address this question through a discussion of the events surrounding a recent salmon fishing trip made by the authors to the Boland River in Ontario, Canada.
Program Effectiveness of Neighborhood Organizations: Leadership Perceptions in One City
Authors: Johnson Terri
Published: May 2024

This paper attempts to explain the extent to which leaders perceive their neighborhood organizations as effective in providing programs and services to their neighborhood constituents. Contributing factors that influence perceptions of effectiveness are measured through observed variations in organizational resources and complexity, leader behavior, constituent relations, and the differences in beliefs between board members and staff and volunteers. Theories of organizational behavior are used as an alternative perspective from which to study neighborhood organizations. Data for the study come from a survey of leadership affiliated with 40 neighborhood organizations in the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Central Values of Government and Business: Differences, Similarities and Conflicts1
Authors: Wal Zeger Van Der , Huberts Leo , Heuvel Hans Van Den , Kolthoff Emile
Published: May 2024

Over the last decades scholars have been devoting more and more attention to differences and similarities between public and private sector organizations. Relatively underrepresented, when compared to studies on organizational status and management, are comparative empirical studies on the differences and similarities between the central values of public and private sector organizations. This article presents an overview of the academic debate on differences and similarities between the morals and values of public and private sector organizations. Public and private sector values derived from Administrative Ethics and Business Ethics literature are compared, as well as values that are mentioned in public and private sector codes of conduct. In addition, intra-sector comparisons between the values derived from literature reviews and those in codes are conducted. After the distinguished values are weighted, combined and supplemented, taking into account empirical research on public and private sector values as well, a definitive ‘value panorama’ is presented as a basis for empirical comparative research. Implications and strategies for future research are presented.
Accountability in Australia: Control, Paradox, and Complexity
Authors: Halligan John
Published: May 2024

Accountability in the Australian federal system has changed in distinctive ways during the last three decades of public sector reform. In association with each major environmental change has been an extension to accountability from the traditional features of ministerial responsibility and bureaucratic hierarchy to new modes of external scrutiny, accountability management, and most recently accountability within market and governance contexts. Each experiment at the national level, however, has had limitations that produce knock on effects. The paradox of accountability is that attempts to satisfy needs for control have led new forms and variations. The result has been the multiplication of accountability mechanisms and increasing complexity.
Public Sector Reform in New Zealand: Issues of Public Accountability
Authors: Mulgan Richard
Published: May 2024

The New Zealand public sector reform process of the late 1980s and early 1990s was notable for its attempt to clarify public accountability through the specification of outputs, contractual agreements and the disaggregation of government departments into smaller, more sharply focused agencies. While the reforms achieved managerial improvements, the accountability regime was less successful because of the difficulties of specification and the continuing robustness of ministerial responsibility in the face of attempts to limit the political control and accountability.
Road to Ruin? Horizontal Equalisation of Road Grant Allocations in Eastern mainland Australian States
Authors: Drew Joseph , Dollery Brian
Published: May 2024

Intergovernmental grant funding of local government is not only common in many multi-tiered countries, but often hypothecated on local government infrastructure maintenance and renewal. In Australia, the federal government has been providing grant funding for roads since 1973 through the different state Local Government Grant Commissions. The guiding principle for this distribution of grants has been to enhance horizontal equity in the provision of local government services to all Australians, regardless of where they reside. This objective has particular significance in a commodity based economy which relies on local government for the bulk of its road infrastructure. Moreover, several recent inquiries have suggested that a growing local infrastructure backlog is a problem with national economic ramifications. Against this background, this paper examines whether the grant allocation practices of the three states which account for the bulk of the Australian population and economic activity accord with intended horizontal fiscal equity principles underlying road grant allocations. We present evidence which demonstrates that a lack of consistency and transparency not only undermines equity goals, but also the financial sustainability of individual local authorities.
E-Government Portal Information Performance and the Role of Local Community Interest. Empirical Support for a Model of Citizen Perceptions
Authors: Wirtz Bernd W. , Piehler Robert , Rieger Vanessa , Daiser Peter
Published: May 2024

E-government portals at the local level are a vital part of the modernization of public administration. However, there are few research articles that focus on the informational success factors of these portal websites. As the foundation of more advanced service levels, informational offers still constitute the majority of e-government content. In this article, a model of e-government usage with a focus on informational offers is empirically tested. The four dimensions information attractiveness, information usefulness, information awareness, and ease of navigation are used as relevant criteria for user-based informational performance perception. Using structural equation modelling a moderating effect of local community interest can be shown. Citizens with low interest in their community show a higher dependency on information attractiveness, information usefulness, information awareness, and ease of navigation to predict the usage intention. Corresponding implications for future research and practitioners are derived.
Accountability Reporting in Austrian Nonprofit Organizations - More than a Compliance Instrument?
Authors: Greiling Dorothea , Stötzer Sandra
Published: May 2024

Non-profit organizations (NPOs) are increasingly obliged to demonstrate performance in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. The introduction of performance measurement systems is advocated not only to promote external accountability but also for internal coordination purposes. However, studies concentrating on the use of performance measurement systems within NPOs and on how they balance both internal management needs and external accountability reporting obligations within their implemented performance measurement systems are scarce. We would like to narrow this gap by addressing this question with regard to NPOs in Austria. Therefore we analyze the design and instrumental purposes of their performance measurement systems employed, explore who exerts influence on the development of performance measurement systems and discuss several contingency factors in this context. Additionally, we inquire how the NPOs interviewed assess the cost-benefit ratio of the performance measurement systems imposed on them.