THE EFFECT OF PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING MODEL ON STUDENTS' PHYSICS LEARNING OUTCOMES

The purpose of this study is to measure student learning outcomes using problem-based learning models on students' physics learning outcomes. The research method is using experimental research. The research design used is Posttest-Only Control Design. The sampling technique used in the study was simple random sampling, so one class was obtained as a control class, namely class X mathematics science 2 and one class as an experimental class. With Data Analysis Techniques using Descriptive Analysis and inferential analysis. The results of the study showed that students who were taught with problem-based learning models had high average physics learning outcomes scores, while students who were not taught with this model had average physics learning outcomes scores that were in the low and sufficient categories. This study also found a significant difference in physics learning outcomes between the two groups, indicating that problem-based learning models have a positive effect on students' physics learning outcomes. This study provides a new perspective in measuring the effectiveness of problem-based learning models, especially in improving students' physics learning outcomes, which have not previously been widely studied in the context of physics learning in Indonesia

'I almost felt like I can be a little bit more honest' : experiences of a telehealth group for bipolar disorder

Despite the increasing use of telehealth platforms to deliver cognitive behavioural group therapy programs, few studies have been conducted that explore the experience of using telehealth platforms for those living with bipolar disorder. The present study aimed to explore the impact of the telehealth platform on the delivery of a recovery-orientated well-being plan group program for participants living with bipolar disorder. A total of 19 participants completed the qualitative interviews (3 male, 16 female). Using content analysis, data were deductively coded in line with pre-existing codes and matrix categories with unexpected data that discussed the telehealth experience being coded using an inductive content analysis framework. Two themes were identified: (1) Social inclusion, which included the subthemes of (a) connection to others via telehealth and (b) feeling safe using telehealth; and (2) Barriers and engagement, which included the subthemes of (a) removing barriers by using telehealth and (b) symptom impacts to engagement using the telehealth platform. Participants reported increased connection with others using telehealth and feeling greater safety overall when using the telehealth platform; however, some noted that dominant personalities could contribute to feeling unsafe within the group at times. Overall, the platform reduced barriers and was easy to use with this being a convenient way to attend, even if in some instances the platform highlighted differences between the members. Key learning aims (1) Telehealth platforms provide a unique opportunity for connection for those living with bipolar disorder. (2) Telehealth platforms may increase feelings of personal safety but may also increase feelings of difference between group members. (3) Symptoms may impact on engagement with anxiety and mood symptoms playing a role; however, telehealth may also decrease barriers to engagement

[In Press] Experiences of a transdiagnostic anxiety cognitive behaviour therapy group for people living with bipolar disorder : a qualitative study

Background: Participant experiences of transdiagnostic bipolar disorder treatment groups has been largely under-explored. The present study aimed to explore the experiences of people living with bipolar disorder who participated in a pilot study of a transdiagnostic cognitive behaviour therapy for comorbid anxiety. Methods: Ten participants (five male) diagnosed with bipolar disorder took part in an interview at the completion of the programme. Participants were asked open-ended questions about the programme and their experiences of participation in the group. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Key themes identified included: (1) “Content and techniques – applications outside of the group”, where participants reported using the content learnt for the management of anxiety and other symptoms, including co-occurring conditions; (2) ‘Being part of the group – “feeling normal”, where participants reported feeling supported within a group that was specific to bipolar disorder; and (3) “Group structure – enabling process, content and research”, where participants reported that structural elements, such as participation in research, added meaning to their experience. Conclusions: This research provides evidence for the value of transdiagnostic approaches in the treatment of bipolar disorder, with participants reporting that they applied the skills learnt to anxiety, substance use and bipolar disorder-specific symptoms

The emergence of resistant pneumococcal meningitis—implications for empiric therapy

Background: Following the emergence of penicillin and cephalosporin resistant pneumococcal meningitis in the United States, inclusion of vancomycin in empiric therapy for all suspected bacterial meningitis was recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Few data are available to evaluate this policy. Aims: To examine the management and clinical course in relation to antibiotic therapy of a large unselected cohort of children with pneumococcal meningitis in a geographic area where antibiotic resistance has recently increased. Methods: Retrospective review of all cases of pneumococcal meningitis in a defined population (Sydney, Australia), 1994–99. Results: A total of 104 cases without predisposing illnesses were identified; timing of lumbar puncture (LP) was known in 103. Resistance to penicillin increased from 0 to 20% over the study period. Only 57 (55%) had an early LP (prior to parenteral antibiotics); 55 (96%) had organisms on Gram stain. Severe disease (intensive care admission or death) increased significantly from 57 cases with early LP (28%) to 33 with delayed LP (42%) to 13 with no LP (62%). Evidence of pneumococcal infection was available within 24 hours in 85% of those with delayed or no LP. Outcome was not related to empiric vancomycin use, which increased from 5% prior to 1998 to 48% in 1999. Conclusion: LP is frequently delayed in pneumococcal meningitis. Based on disease severity, empiric vancomycin is most justified when LP is deferred. If an early LP is done, vancomycin can be withheld if Gram positive diplococci are not seen

A randomized trial of egg introduction from 4 months of age in infants at risk for egg allergy

Background: Epidemiological evidence suggests delayed introduction of egg may not protect against egg allergy in infants at risk of allergic disease. Objective: To assess whether dietary introduction of egg between 4-6 months in infants at risk of allergy would reduce sensitization to egg. Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial in infants with at least one first-degree relative with allergic disease. Infants with a skin prick test to egg white (EW-SPT) <2mm were randomized at age 4 months to receive whole-egg powder or placebo (rice powder) until 8-months of age, with all other dietary egg excluded. Diets were liberalized at 8-months in both groups. The primary outcome was EW-SPT ≥3mm at age 12-months. Results: 319 infants were randomized, 165 to egg and 154 to placebo. Fourteen infants reacted to egg within one week of introduction (despite EW-SPT <2mm at entry) and were unsuitable for intervention. 254 infants (83%) were assessed at 12 months of age. Loss to follow up was similar between groups. Sensitization to EW at 12 months was 20% and 11% in infants randomized to placebo and egg, respectively (OR=0.46, 95%CI 0.22-0.95, p=0.03, Chi-Square test). The absolute risk reduction was 9.8% (95%CI: 8.2% to 18.9%) with a number needed to treat of 11 (95%CI: 6 to 122). IgG4 to egg proteins and IgG4/IgE ratios were higher in those randomized to egg (p<0.0001 for each) at 12 months. There was no effect on the proportion of children with probable egg allergy (placebo 13, egg 8). Conclusions: Introduction of whole-egg powder into the diets of high risk infants reduced sensitization to EW and induced egg-specific IgG4. However 8.5% of infants randomized to egg were not amenable to this primary prevention