ORCID Profile
0000-0001-7680-5604
Current Organisation
University of South Australia
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Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-03-2021
Abstract: igital health interventions such as tailored websites are emerging as valuable tools to provide in idualized exercise and behavioral change information for in iduals diagnosed with cancer. he aim of this study is to investigate and iteratively refine the acceptability and usability of a web-based exercise intervention ( i ExerciseGuide /i ) for men with metastatic prostate cancer and determine how well in iduals can replicate the video-based exercise prescription. laboratory-based multi-methods design was used, incorporating questionnaires, think-aloud tests, interviews, and movement screening among 11 men aged 63 to 82 years with metastatic prostate cancer. Overall, 9 participants were undergoing androgen deprivation therapy, and 2 were completing chemotherapy. Data were collected in two waves, with changes made for quality improvement after participant 5. he intervention’s usability score was deemed moderate overall but improved after modifications (from 60, SD 2.9 to 69.6, SD 2.2 out of 100). Overall, the participants found the intervention acceptable, with scores improving from wave 1 (24.2, SD 1.1 out of 30) to wave 2 (26.3, SD 2.1 out of 30). The personalized multimodal exercise prescription and computer-tailored education were seen as valuable. After wave 1, website navigation videos were added, medical terminology was simplified, and a telehealth component was included after expert real-time telehealth support was requested. Wave 2 changes included the added variety for aerobic exercise modes, reduced computer-tailoring question loads, and improved consistency of style and grammar. Finally, the participants could replicate the resistance exercise videos to a satisfactory level as judged by the movement screen however, additional technique cueing within the videos is recommended to address safety concerns. he acceptability and usability of i ExerciseGuide /i were deemed satisfactory. Various problems were identified and resolved. Notably, the participants requested the inclusion of personalized expert support through telehealth. The resistance training algorithms were shown to provide appropriate content safely, and the users could replicate the exercise technique unaided to a satisfactory level. This study has optimized the i ExerciseGuide /i intervention for further investigation in this population. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12618001978257 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001978257
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-11-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12877-022-03567-6
Abstract: Although the health benefits of physical activity are well documented, most older adults are not sufficiently active. There is a need to explore approaches to physical activity promotion amongst older adults that meet the personal preferences and needs of participants, and that can be implemented on a large scale in community-based settings. The current study evaluates Daily Moves, a community-based physical activity program for older adults living in Adelaide, Australia. The Daily Moves program, which ran almost entirely during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided participants with personalized plans and information about suitable physical activity promoting activities available in their local area. This study used an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach to evaluate associations between participation in the Daily Moves program and physical activity engagement, physical function and psychosocial wellbeing, and to explore the experiences of Daily Moves participants through qualitative interviews, with a particular focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on program participation and enjoyment. The research evaluation included 69 older adults (mean age at baseline = 73.9 ± 5.6 years 19 male). Following Daily Moves , participants reported an increase in self-report physical activity levels (mean increase = 1.8 days, p 0.001), improvements on several measures of physical function (left grip strength (mean increase = 1.8 kg, p 0.001) right grip strength (mean increase = 1.3 kg, p = 0.03) Timed Up and Go (mean decrease = 1.3 s, p 0.001)), and no significant changes in measures of psychosocial wellbeing. Qualitative interviews revealed that participants valued the supportive and flexible nature of Daily Moves, and that they felt connected with staff and other participants despite the onset of the pandemic. This evaluation demonstrates that physical activity programs embedded within the community can provide flexible and tailored recommendations to participants, and that this approach can promote positive change in important indicators of health in older adults.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 18-05-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2019-101242
Abstract: To assess whether physically active yoga is superior to waitlist control, treatment as usual and attention control in alleviating depressive symptoms in people with a diagnosed mental disorder recognised by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Systematic review and meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were obtained from online databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CENTRAL, EMCARE, PEDro). The search and collection of eligible studies was conducted up to 14 May 2019 (PROSPERO registration No CRD42018090441). We included randomised controlled trials with a yoga intervention comprising ≥50% physical activity in adults with a recognised diagnosed mental disorder according to DSM-3, 4 or 5. 19 studies were included in the review (1080 participants) and 13 studies were included in the meta-analysis (632 participants). Disorders of depression, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia, anxiety, alcohol dependence and bipolar were included. Yoga showed greater reductions in depressive symptoms than waitlist, treatment as usual and attention control (standardised mean difference=0.41 95% CI −0.65 to −0.17 p .001). Greater reductions in depressive symptoms were associated with higher frequency of yoga sessions per week (β=−0.44, p .01).
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-07-2021
DOI: 10.2196/28370
Abstract: Digital health interventions such as tailored websites are emerging as valuable tools to provide in idualized exercise and behavioral change information for in iduals diagnosed with cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate and iteratively refine the acceptability and usability of a web-based exercise intervention (ExerciseGuide) for men with metastatic prostate cancer and determine how well in iduals can replicate the video-based exercise prescription. A laboratory-based multi-methods design was used, incorporating questionnaires, think-aloud tests, interviews, and movement screening among 11 men aged 63 to 82 years with metastatic prostate cancer. Overall, 9 participants were undergoing androgen deprivation therapy, and 2 were completing chemotherapy. Data were collected in two waves, with changes made for quality improvement after participant 5. The intervention’s usability score was deemed moderate overall but improved after modifications (from 60, SD 2.9 to 69.6, SD 2.2 out of 100). Overall, the participants found the intervention acceptable, with scores improving from wave 1 (24.2, SD 1.1 out of 30) to wave 2 (26.3, SD 2.1 out of 30). The personalized multimodal exercise prescription and computer-tailored education were seen as valuable. After wave 1, website navigation videos were added, medical terminology was simplified, and a telehealth component was included after expert real-time telehealth support was requested. Wave 2 changes included the added variety for aerobic exercise modes, reduced computer-tailoring question loads, and improved consistency of style and grammar. Finally, the participants could replicate the resistance exercise videos to a satisfactory level as judged by the movement screen however, additional technique cueing within the videos is recommended to address safety concerns. The acceptability and usability of ExerciseGuide were deemed satisfactory. Various problems were identified and resolved. Notably, the participants requested the inclusion of personalized expert support through telehealth. The resistance training algorithms were shown to provide appropriate content safely, and the users could replicate the exercise technique unaided to a satisfactory level. This study has optimized the ExerciseGuide intervention for further investigation in this population. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12618001978257 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001978257
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-09-2014
DOI: 10.1111/CPF.12084
Abstract: Indices of body composition and muscular strength were compared between men with prostate cancer (PCa) treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and asymptomatic matched men. Nine subjects aged 63-83 years with PCa who received ADT (PCa+ADT duration 6-180 months) and 11 asymptomatic aged-matched eugonadal men (HM) aged 59-80 years were assessed for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and total testosterone (TT). Total body non-osseous lean mass (TBLM) and right thigh non-osseous fat-free mass (RTLM) were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Peak torque of the right knee extensors at 0° s(-1) (ISO) and 60° s(-1) (CON), maximal handgrip strength of the dominant hand (MHS) and whole-body strength (WBS) were assessed. ISO and CON per unit mass of RTLM and MHS and WBS per unit mass of TBLM were calculated. Age, height, mass, body mass index and prostate-specific antigen were comparable between groups (P>0·05), while TT was lower in PCa+ADT (P<0·01). RTLM was similar between groups (P≥0·075). Absolute ISO and CON were lower for PCa+ADT (P<0·01) as were CON per unit of RTLM and ISO per unit of RTLM (P<0·05). Absolute MHS, WBS and MHS per unit of TBLM and WBS per unit of TBLM were lower for PCa+ADT (P<0·01 P<0·05). Men with PCa who receive ADT experience significant losses in whole-body muscular strength compared with asymptomatic age-matched men, which may impair functional capacity. These losses in muscular strength appear to involve neuromuscular mechanisms that are yet to be identified.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-09-2020
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-020-09932-2
Abstract: Few in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer have access to prostate cancer-specific exercise support, despite demonstrated benefits. eHealth tools, such as websites, may be viable options for increasing access. To be effective and acceptable, future eHealth websites need to consider end-users' perspectives, capacity and needs. We aim to provide insight into these factors by exploring daily priorities, activities and health literacy of in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer and their perspectives towards exercise and exercise-based web-based eHealth interventions. Semi-structured interviews explored participant's experiences and understanding of their disease, exercise levels, advice received from health care providers, as well as acceptability of and suggested content for an eHealth tool. A thematic analysis was undertaken. Interviews were conducted with eighteen Australians (55-83 years M = 71.5, SD = 8.9) living with metastatic prostate cancer. Needing to perform daily responsibilities was a key priority. Participants had limited understanding of the benefits of prostate cancer-specific exercise, and less than half discussed exercise with their health team. Fourteen men felt they could report metastases location, but only four could provide detailed information, which has clinical implications for exercise prescription. A potential web-based intervention was considered acceptable by seventeen men for reasons such as affordability, accessibility and convenience. User-friendly design and practitioner support were important. Results identified key aspects useful for person-centred design of exercise programs. Participants were positive towards the proposed web-based tool and expressed the need for in idualised, user-friendly and reliable information with support from a professional embedded. Lastly, not all participants could accurately report metastasis locations.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 12-05-2016
DOI: 10.1093/JAC/DKW155
Abstract: The risk of patients with ALL and recipients of an allogeneic HSCT developing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is sufficiently high to warrant guidelines for the laboratory diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the disease. In this issue, the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL) presents its recommendations in three companion papers.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-01-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S40814-020-00763-2
Abstract: Preliminary research has shown the effectiveness of supervised exercise-based interventions in alleviating sequela resulting from metastatic prostate cancer. Despite this, many in iduals do not engage in sufficient exercise to gain the benefits. There are many barriers, which limit the uptake of face-to-face exercise in this population including lack of suitable facilities, remoteness, and access to experts, significant fatigue, urinary incontinence and motivation. Technology-enabled interventions offer a distance-based alternative. This protocol describes a pilot two-armed randomised controlled study that will investigate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an online exercise and behavioural change tool (ExerciseGuide) amongst in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer. Sixty-six participants with histologically diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer will be randomised into either the 8-week intervention or a wait-list control. The intervention arm will have access to a tailored website, remote supervision, and tele-coaching sessions to enhance support and adherence. Algorithms will in idually prescribe resistance and aerobic exercise based upon factors such as metastasis location, pain, fatigue, confidence and current exercise levels. Behavioural change strategies and education on exercise benefits, safety and lifestyle are also tailored through the website. The primary outcome will be intervention feasibility (safety, usability, acceptability, and adherence). Secondary exploratory outcomes include changes in physical activity, quality of life, sleep, and physical function. Outcomes will be measured at baseline and week 9. The study aims to determine the potential feasibility of an online remotely monitored exercise intervention developed for in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer. If feasible, this pilot intervention will inform the design and implementation of further distance-based interventions. ANZCTR, ACTRN12614001268639 . Registered 10 December 2018, anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12618001979246.aspx
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2023
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-11-2021
Abstract: Preliminary research has shown the effectiveness of supervised exercise-based interventions in alleviating sequela resulting from metastatic prostate cancer. However, many in iduals encounter barriers that limit the uptake of face-to-face exercise. Technology-enabled interventions offer a distance-based alternative. This pilot study aimed to explore the acceptability, safety and preliminary efficacy of a web-based exercise intervention (ExerciseGuide) in in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer. Forty participants (70.2 ± 8.5 years) with metastatic prostate cancer were randomised into the 8-week intervention (N = 20) or a wait-list control (N = 20). The intervention arm had access to a computer-tailored website, personalised exercise prescription and remote supervision. ExerciseGuide was deemed acceptable with a score ≥20 on the client satisfaction questionnaire however, the usability score was just below the pre-specified score of ≥68 on the software usability scale. There were no serious adverse events reported. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels between baseline and follow-ups were significantly higher (10.0 min per day 95% CI = (1.3–18.6) p = 0.01) in the intervention group compared to wait-list control. There were also greater improvements in step count (1332 95% CI = (159–2505) p = 0.02) and identified motivation (0.4, 95% CI = (0.0, 0.7) p = 0.04). Our findings provide preliminary evidence that ExerciseGuide is acceptable, safe and efficacious among in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-04-2020
No related grants have been discovered for Danielle Girard.