Theory Of Transitions Research Articles

Navigating transitions: a qualitative study of nursing teams' experiences of educational and cultural transitions in Germany.

The global migration of health professionals in general and nurses in particular, has led to nursing shortages and socioeconomic impacts on health systems in both source and destination countries. Adding to the complexity of the situation is the fact that the nursing profession itself is evolving from a vocational to an academic one. Although nursing migration and academization have been studied from either an institutional or an individual perspective, there is a gap in the literature regarding how nursing teams experience these transitions. This study aims to explore how nursing teams navigate through the transitions of academization and internationalization of the current dynamic nursing landscape in Germany. Based on social constructivism epistemology this qualitative study involved face-to-face focus group discussions conducted at several hospital sites in Germany from September 2021 to May 2023. The focus group discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using content analysis; the four dimensions of transition theory according to Schlossberg's Four S (4S) framework (self, situation, support, and strategy) were used as a priori items to construct the coding framework. Nine focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 40 nurses from different educational and migrant backgrounds. The analysis showed that the transition experiences of the nursing teams were heterogeneous, with educational and national backgrounds playing an important role in how realistic their expectations of their professional roles and identities were. The dynamic situation characterized by a shortage of qualified nursing staff, increases the pressure on nursing teams and underscores the importance of employer-provided and peer support. Onboarding and communication are key strategies used depending on the duration of the employee turnover. This study provides insights into the challenges and coping strategies of nursing teams in the current dynamic scene of migration, academicization and professional socialisation in Germany. Extending the Schlossberg 4S framework from the individual to the team perspective provides a comprehensive view of the transitional experiences of nursing teams. Within each domain of the framework, the experiences of nursing teams are remarkably diverse. Educational background (vocational or academic) and origin (German or foreign trained) play an important role in shaping the transitional experiences of nursing teams.

Controlling Matter Phases beyond Markov.

Controlling phase transitions in quantum systems via coupling to reservoirs has been mostly studied for idealized memory-less environments under the so-called Markov approximation. Yet, most quantum materials and experiments in the solid state, atomic, molecular and optical physics are coupled to reservoirs with finite memory times. Here, using the spectral theory of non-Markovian dissipative phase transitions developed in the companion paper [Debecker, Martin, and Damanet (to be published)], we show that memory effects can be leveraged to reshape matter phase boundaries, but also reveal the existence of dissipative phase transitions genuinely triggered by non-Markovian effects.

Spectral theory of non-Markovian dissipative phase transitions

Spectral theory of non-Markovian dissipative phase transitions

Effect of online infant care training and postpartum counseling based on Meleis' transition theory on mothers' readiness for care and breastfeeding: a randomized controlled trial.

Mothers must acquire the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill their responsibilities and take care of themselves and their babies. This study aimed to examine the effects of online baby care education and postpartum counseling based on Meleis' transition theory on mothers' readiness for baby care and breastfeeding. This randomized controlled trial was conducted between May 2022 and May 2023 at the pregnancy follow-up outpatient clinic of a state hospital. The study sample consisted of 102 pregnant women (52 in the intervention group, 50 in the control group). The mean scores of the intervention group compared to the control group were significantly higher immediately after birth and at 1, 2, and 3 months postpartum. Change over time was significantly higher in repeated measurements of National Institute of Child Health and Human Development scale scores of the intervention and control groups (P=0.001). In the first 24 hours, mothers in the intervention group breastfed more successfully than those in the control group (P<0.001). Mothers in the intervention group exclusively breast fed at a significantly higher rate immediately and at 1, 2, and 3 months postpartum compared to the control group (P<0.001). A statistically significant difference was noted in mean infant height and weight in the intervention group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Theory-based online education initiated during pregnancy and counseling continued up to 3 months postpartum positively affected the mothers' abilities to care for their infants. Mothers who received education and counseling breastfed their babies more successfully on the first day and breast fed exclusively at a higher rate in the first 3 months.

Critical evaluation of Afaf Meleis´s Transition Theory: strengths, limitations and applications in nursing education

Introduction: Afaf Meleis's Transitions Theory addresses how multidimensional transitions impact individuals' health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of properly managing these transitions. This study aims to critically and reflectively describe this theory by analyzing its strengths, limitations, usefulness, and significance in nursing education. Method: Chinn and Kramer's theory analysis methodology was used. The description was based on publications from 1994 to 2010, and a critical reflection was performed by searching for evidence in PubMed and CINAHL between 2015 and 2021. The MeSH descriptors "Nursing Theory," "Models," and "Nursing" were used, along with the keywords "Transition" and "Transition Theory Meleis," resulting in a total of 16 selected articles. Results: The Transitions Theory has several strengths and limitations. Among its strengths are its high generalizability and accessibility, allowing for application in various clinical and educational contexts. However, the theory has limited semantic clarity and is complex, which may hinder its full understanding and application. Conclusions: The theory is highly valued in nursing education, providing a valuable theoretical framework for understanding and addressing student transitions. Its application allows for incorporating lived contexts into the educational process, creating equitable and student-centered learning environments. More research is needed in Latin America to evaluate its usefulness and adapt it to regional contexts, promoting meaningful learning both in the classroom and in clinical practice.

Creep stress analysis of Transversely Isotropic Rotating Disc Composed of Piezoelectric Material

If a crystal undergoes mechanical stress, then an electrical potential is developed across its sides; this phenomenon is called piezoelectricity, or the piezoelectric effect. Piezoelectric materials include quartz, zinc oxide (ZnO), lead zirconate titanate (PZT4), and Rochelle salt. There are numerous uses for piezoelectricity in signal and electrical transducers. In this work, transitional and creep stresses are evaluated in a thin disc made up of piezoelectric transversely isotropic solids subjected to rotation. The mathematical expressions of stress components are computed for the rotating disc by using Seth’s transition theory considering the rotation effect in circular disc. The electric displacement relations and various stress components are computed using Hooke’s Law. A non-homogeneous differential equation is obtained by using mathematical relations and the equilibrium equation. The theoretical solution of the differential equation is obtained under specified boundary conditions. Creep stresses are studied for the considered material. The obtained results are shown graphically, analyzed numerically, and concluded with a discussion of the results for transversely isotropic piezoelectric materials such as BaTiO3 and PZT-4, among others. On the basis of all the numerical discussions and graphs, it is concluded that discs composed of transversely isotropic piezoelectric (PZT4 and BaTiO3) materials are more stable than discs composed of transversely isotropic (magnesium and beryl).

General practice trainee, supervisor and educator perspectives on the transitions in postgraduate training: a scoping review

Transitions are a period and a process, through which there is a longitudinal adaptation in response to changing circumstances in clinical practice and responsibilities. While the experience of the transition...

Co-creation and evaluation of an algorithm for the development of a mobile application for wound care among new graduate nurses: A mixed methods study.

Chronic wounds are a growing concern due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles and increasing rates of obesity and chronic diseases. The impact of such wounds is felt worldwide, posing a considerable clinical, environmental and socioeconomic challenge and impacting the quality of life. The increasing complexity of care requires a holistic approach, along with extensive knowledge and skills. The challenge experienced by health-care professionals is particularly significant for newly graduate nurses, who face a gap between theory and practice. Digital tools, such as mobile applications, can support wound care by facilitating more precise assessments, early treatment, complication prevention and better outcomes. They also aid in clinical decision-making and improve healthcare delivery in remote areas. Several mobile applications have emerged to enhance wound care. However, there are no applications dedicated to newly graduate nurses. The aim of this study was to co-create and evaluate an algorithm for the development of a wound care mobile application supporting clinical decisions for new graduate nurses. The development of this mobile application is envisioned to improve knowledge application and facilitate evidence-based practice. This study is part of a multiphase project that adopted a pragmatic epistemological approach, using the 'Knowledge-to-Action' conceptual model and Duchscher's Stages of Transition Theory. Following a scoping review, an expert consensus, and stakeholder meetings, this study was pursued through a sequential exploratory mixed methods design carried out in two phases. In the initial phase, 21 participants engaged in semi-structured focus groups to explore their needs regarding clinical decision support in wound care, explore their perceptions of the future mobile application's content and identify and categorize essential components. Through descriptive analysis, five overarching themes emerged, serving as guiding principles for conceptual data model development and refinement. These findings confirmed the significance of integrating a comprehensive glossary complemented by photos, ensuring compatibility between the mobile application and existing documentation systems, and providing quick access to information to avoid burdening work routines. Subsequently, the algorithm was created from the qualitative data collected. The second phase involved presenting an online SurveyMonkey® questionnaire to 34 participants who were not part of the initial phase to quantitatively measure the usability of this algorithm among future users. This phase revealed very positive feedback regarding the usability [score of 6.33 (±0.19) on a scale of 1-7], which reinforces its quality. The technology maturation process can now continue with the development of a prototype and subsequent validation in a laboratory setting.

Nonlinear soliton spiral induces coupled multimode dynamics in multi-stable dissipative metamaterials

With the robust and self-trapped properties, recent advances about soliton dynamics in multi-stable mechanical metamaterials have led to many innovative techniques from signal processing to robotics. This work proposes a multi-stable mechanical metamaterial driven by nonlinear dissipative solitons, in which the coupling and decoupling of multiple locomotion modes can be achieved. Based on a cylinder network with asymmetric energy landscape, the uniform field model of Landau theory is developed. During the theoretical calculation, the analytical solutions of several dissipative solitons are derived, which allow multiple special behaviors of solitary waves, such as wave velocity gaps, directional propagation and spiral phase transition. By incorporating such effects into robotic designs, a variety of complex movements can be achieved by a single structure, including hopping, rolling, rotating, swinging, bending and translational components. In particular, as excitation positions change, the mechanical metamaterial can flexibly switch multiple locomotion modes without changing configurations, e.g., spinning and spin-less, straight and oblique as well as coupled multimode movements. This work wishes to provide some new inspirations for the applications of nonlinear elastic wave metamaterials and phase transition theory in robotics.

A 3D finite deformation constitutive model for anisotropic shape memory polymer composites integrating viscoelasticity and phase transition concept

The phase transition theory of shape memory polymers (SMPs) often involves a phenomenological assumption that the reference configuration of the newly transformed phase deviates from that of the initial phase. This distinction serves as a crucial mechanism in the manifestation of the shape memory effect. However, elucidating the precise definition of the reference configuration of the transformed phase poses a significant challenge in the formulation of the constitutive model. To tackle this challenge, a three-dimensional (3D) finite deformation constitutive model incorporating effective phase evolution for SMPs has been developed. This model merges insights from the classical viscoelastic framework with the phase transition theory. The anisotropic thermo-viscoelastic constitutive model is further developed by introducing hyperelastic fibers, which integrate the anisotropy of the fibers into a continuous thermodynamic framework through structure tensors. Implemented within the ABAQUS software via a user material (UMAT) subroutine, the proposed model has been meticulously validated against experimental data, showcasing its prowess in simulating stress-strain responses and shape memory characteristics of SMPs and their composites (SMPCs). This innovative model stands as an invaluable instrument for the design and of sophisticated SMP and SMPC structures.

Hybrid ‘sledom’ [follows] in Area of Interaction of Nouns and Adverbs: Semantics and Grammar

This article presents the results of a study on the process and outcome of the stepwise adverbialization of the instrumental case of nouns in the Russian. The relevance of this work is underscored by the attention to the interaction between grammatical and semantic aspects within lexical units subject to transposition at the level of parts of speech. The aim of the article is to elucidate the specifics of hybrid structures formed as a result of the functional adverbialization of nouns in the instrumental case. The material used consists of contexts from the Russian National Corpus featuring substantive word forms like ‘sledom’, demonstrating various stages of adverbialization. An interdisciplinary approach is employed, utilizing methods of oppositional analysis, indexing, linguistic experimentation, as well as elements of componential and distributional analysis. Using the word form ‘sledom’ as a case study, the primary stages of adverbial transposition of nouns in Russian are identified. The analysis reveals that within the hybrid zone, the word form ‘sledom’ exhibits 55 % correspondence with the features of its original noun (‘sled’) and 60 % correspondence with the characteristics of a core adverb (‘sledom’). Lexicalization of the word form at this stage of adverbialization is not observed; it continues to function within the semantic domain of the original substantive lexeme. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to the development of a general theory of transitivity and syncretism in the grammatical structure of language, as well as the potential application of the proposed methods of oppositional analysis and indexing in studying other types of transpositional transformations within the system of parts of speech in the Russian.

Navigating transitions: Vietnamese students’ experiences and challenges in the first year of higher education

ABSTRACT This qualitative research delves into the intricate transitional experiences of Vietnamese students during their first year in higher education (HE). Grounded in the dynamically shifting socio-cultural landscape of Vietnam, the study captures the narratives of 15 students, emphasising the unique challenges faced by those from the Mekong Delta region. Utilising a robust analytical blend of sociocultural theory, transition theory, and constructivist grounded theory, the research surfaces seven poignant themes. These are: (1) ‘Cultural Dislocation’, capturing the tension between traditional values and modern, global influences; (2) the ‘Struggle with Academic Independence’ highlighting the challenges of autonomous learning; (3) the intricacies of navigating ‘Interpersonal Dynamics in Diversity’ in a multicultural academic environment; (4) the evident ‘Digital Divide’ accentuating the disparities in technological access and proficiency; (5) the delicate act of ‘Balancing Commitments’ between academic pursuits and deeply rooted familial responsibilities; and (6) the profound ‘Quest for Autonomy and Identity Formation’, signifying the transformative nature of HE as a space for profound self-discovery and personal growth. While offering specific insights into the Vietnamese context, the study resonates with global academic transitions, underscoring the urgent need for holistic educational approaches that address the diverse challenges and aspirations of contemporary students.

First-principles study of Ti adsorption on Al4C3 (0001) surface

Al4C3 phase is hypothesized to undergo a solid–solid phase transition into TiC, thereby facilitating the heterogeneous nucleation of α-Al. However, capturing this transition process experimentally is challenging, which undermines the credibility of this transition theory. In this study, first-principles calculations are employed to investigate the feasibility of Ti atom adsorption on the exposed (0001) surface of the Al4C3 crystal, providing theoretical support for the phase transition hypothesis. The findings indicate that Ti adatoms can effectively adsorb on the C-terminated (0001) surface, whereas adsorption on the Al-terminated surface is thermodynamically unfavorable. Upon structural optimization, Ti adatoms at bridge site B, top site T, and hollow site H1, irrespective of coverage, migrate towards the most stable hollow H2 site. Electronic structure analysis reveals that the bonding between the Ti adatom at the H2 site and the surface layer C atoms is primarily covalent, while the bonding with subsurface layer Al atoms is metallic. Additionally, Ti atom adsorption induces polarization of the bonding electron cloud between Al and C atoms. This study provides theoretical support for the Ti-induced transformation of the Al4C3 to TiC phase via surface adsorption, paving the way for the development of high-performance master alloys based on phase transition theory.

Relationship between phosphorus stoichiometric homeostasis and deepwater adaptability of submerged macrophytes in Erhai Lake, China: Insights from allometric plasticity

The state transition theory suggests that the decline of submerged macrophytes in shallow lakes is closely associated with reduced stoichiometric homeostasis, particularly phosphorus homeostasis (HP). The degradation typically progresses from deeper to shallower regions, indicating a potential positive correlation between the deepwater adaptability (DA) and HP values of submerged macrophytes. Here, we investigated the distribution pattern of submerged macrophytes across different water depths of Erhai Lake to test this hypothesis. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between the DA and HP values of submerged macrophytes. Allometric analysis indicated that the morphological plasticity of submerged macrophytes was linked to their HP. Species with higher HP values, like Potamogeton maackianus, had robust plasticity strategies, particularly “real plasticity”, that enabled them to cope with deeper water stress. In contrast, species with lower HP values (Ceratophyllum demersum and Hydrilla verticillata) experienced nutrient declines, which hindered their adaptation. Additionally, species with higher HP values exhibited closer connections within the plant traits-environment network, indicating that their morphological plasticity adjustments allow better adaptation to the environmental changes caused by increasing water depth. These results confirm the relationship between DA and HP in submerged macrophytes and explain the mechanisms underlying the correlation, thus expanding regime shift theory.

An assessment of convicted cryptocurrency fraudsters

ABSTRACT We examine cryptocurrency fraud cases prosecuted by Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). We considered the lens of the Space Transition Theory (STT) in exploring the dynamics of these digital crimes. Our data analysis reveals common types of fraud, including cryptocurrency investment schemes. The results show an exclusive male demographic (100%), with the majority under 30 years old and only a quarter possessing a degree, providing insights into the socio-demographic characteristics of cryptocurrency fraudsters. Additionally, while most fraudsters (55%) targeted victims in the United States, Bitcoin, leveraging blockchain technology, was the most commonly used method (46%) for cryptocurrency fraud. Our examination of the methods and mediums used for cryptocurrency fraud supports some aspects of STT, while others do not. We advocate for a multifaceted strategy that prioritises stringent regulation, implementation, and heightened scrutiny of digital currency ecosystems in Nigeria and beyond. This study contributes to the broader discourse on cybercrime prevention and enforcement by emphasising the novel methodological approach utilised.

Transitions: Living With Young-Onset Alzheimer's Disease: A Qualitative Interview Study.

Persons with young-onset dementia (YOD) are confronted with specific challenges. Due to the neurodegenerative nature of the disease, people diagnosed with YOD face many changes with different consequences, for example, regarding their life perspective. These changes can give rise to transition processes and strategies for coping, hopefully stimulating well-being and acceptance. However, this might not always be the case, and support may be warranted. Our aim was to describe the experiences of those living with YOD due to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and identify signs of transitions during the first year after diagnosis. In this qualitative interview study, we explore the experiences of younger persons living with AD. Thirteen participants under the age of 65 years (nine female and four male; mean age: 57) were included 1 year after being diagnosed with AD. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative content analysis with a deductive approach. To gain a deeper understanding of the data, Meleis's transitions theory was used as a theoretical framework. Two categories were identified: 'Life has changed' and 'Mastering a changed life situation'. One year after diagnosis, participants described how they experienced a changed life situation, changing symptoms, a loss of meaningful activities and an increased risk of social isolation. Furthermore, living with uncertainty about the future caused feelings of being disconnected. Awareness was described as an important aspect of coping with YOD and progressing in the transition process. Participants also highlighted the importance of support from others. The results suggest that preventing social isolation is important in facilitating healthy transitions. Therefore, professionals need to identify signs of transitions and be aware of the complexity of coping with YOD, thereby helping to prevent unwanted responses to change and facilitate a healthy transition process. The findings are based on interviews with 13 persons with YOD and provide insight into experiences of living with YOD.

'Everything is different’: the impact of acquiring aphasia on information seeking

Introduction. Aphasia is a language impairment that can lead to significant changes in all aspects of life, including information-seeking behaviour. This paper presents findings from a qualitative study exploring how acquiring aphasia impacts information seeking. The study also assesses the applicability of the information behaviour theory of transitions as a framework to explore and understand this life change in the context of information-seeking behaviour. Method. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and observation of search behaviour of 20 people diagnosed with aphasia. Analysis. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, anonymised and imported into NVivo. The data were examined using thematic analysis. Results. The study found that acquiring aphasia entails significant changes, necessitating the development of new information-seeking behaviour. The findings suggest that creating more inclusive information systems for people with aphasia is possible, with features such as support for word mobilisation and tolerance for spelling errors. Conclusions. Acquiring aphasia led to significant changes in information seeking behaviour. The information behaviour theory of transitions proved useful in identifying information seeking barriers for people with aphasia, as well as providing knowledge on how to support information-seeking behaviour for this cohort.

The Influence of Organiztional Communication Culture and Organizational Communication Climate on Professional Performance and Work Motivation of Teachers at MA Ura El-Mumtaz Education Foundation in Binjai City

Communication within an organization plays a crucial role in determining the professionalism and work motivation of teachers. This study aims to examine the impact of organizational communication culture and organizational communication climate on the professional performance and work motivation of teachers at Maura El-Mumtaz Education Foundation. Using a quantitative approach, this research involved 36 teachers as respondents, selected through a total santpling method. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to measure four main variables: organizational communication culture, organizational communication climate, professional performance, and work motivation. Data analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression techniques to determine the extent to which organizational communication culture and climate influence teachers' professional performance and work motivation. This study supports the Transitional Theory, which posits thatpositive changes in organizational communication culture and climate can enhance performance and work motivation. Additionally, the findings reinforce the Human Relations Theory, which emphasizes the importance of social interaction and effective communication in improvingjob satisfaction and productivity. The results of the study indicate that organizational communication culture has a positive and significant influence on teachers' professional performance

Environmental Impacts of Household Solar Energy Use Adoption in Murang’a County, Kenya

Although Kenya enjoys an abundant of sunshine throughout the year, most households in counties like Murang’a still use non-renewable sources of energy for their energy needs. Globally, households account for approximately 40% of energy consumption per annum with most needs being heating, air conditioning, cooling and lighting. Environmental management is now a global goal with over 197 nations endorsing a framework that promotes positive environmental impact through renewable energy and reduced C02 emissions during COP21 in Paris. This research mainly focused on positive environmental impacts of solar energy use adoption within households in Murang’a County, Kenya. Guided by the transition theory, the research applied anticipated transitions to discuss different aspects of solar energy use adoption in the county and the impact they have on the environment. This qualitative and quantitative study sought to explore perspectives of various households on solar energy use and how the adoption has positively impacted the environment. The data used for the study was collected from 384 randomly selected households in four constituencies in Murang’a County. The findings of the study established low adoption rates of households’ solar energy use and a direct correlation of adoption levels with the awareness levels for most of the study population. Moreover, the study confirmed the hypothesis that solar energy use adoption in households positively influenced environment through management strategies and improved livelihoods. Furthermore, policy measures to support training as well as financial support would go a long way in increasing uptake of solar energy use in households in Murang’a County thus positively influencing the environment through management strategies such as renewable energy use

Understanding China’s Engagements in South Asia: Is It Assertive Wolf Warrior, A Cooperative Traditional Or A Crucible of Conglomerate?

China’s engagements in South Asia have various dynamics. This study seeks to explore these dynamics by integrating theoretical perspectives from both Soft Power and Power Transition Theory, examining how China's diplomatic investments, military and diplomatic postures align with these theories. Within the conceptualization of Chinese engagement in the region and to assess the kind of approach China utilizes, the paper will analyze specific case studies of China’s interactions with India, Pakistan, and other smaller South Asian states, which will provide a bigger picture of these approach/engagements that reflects traditional diplomacy or the more assertive Wolf Warrior approach. In terms of methodology, this research adopts an ‘eye of the beholder’ and qualitative approach, utilizing case studies, primary sources and secondary sources in scientific manner to examine the rhetoric and actions of China.