Shelter In Place Research Articles

Attitudes and Satisfaction toward the Taken Procedures to Tackle COVID-19 Pandemic in Palestine.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been differences in the mitigation strategies implemented by governments worldwide. In addition, people's acceptance and adherence to these strategies, such as avoiding large gatherings and shelter in place, varied. The current study aims to assess the attitude and satisfaction with the procedures to tackle COVID-19 in Palestine. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Palestinian territories, including, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, between April 29, 2020, and June 5, 2020, using a validated online questionnaire. The questionnaire included three sections: socio-demographic characteristics, attitude towards the measures and behaviors to avoid COVID-19 infection and its consequences, and level of people satisfaction with the response of the community and local authorities to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. A convenience sampling method was used to select participants. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. A total of 570 adults aged ≥18 years (56.3% males and 43.7% females) were included in the study. The mean positive attitude score (average % agree or strongly agree) was 94.22%; 95.24%, 95.18%, and 92.18% in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, respectively. While, the mean satisfaction score was 44.26%, distributed as 47.16%, 46.1%, and 39.22% in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, respectively. Additionally, there were statistically significant variations by most attitude and satisfaction variables across the governorates included in the study (p < 0.05). The current study demonstrated high levels of positive attitude but suboptimal level of satisfaction toward the taken procedures to tackle COVID-19 in Palestine. Varied implementation strategies to improve the levels of satisfaction toward the approaches to combat the COVID-19 pandemic are recommended.

Knowledge, attitude, and perception about the utilization of dental services during COVID-19 pandemic among the general population: A cross-sectional survey of an indian subpopulation

Background: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic made many countries impose lockdown, movement control, or “shelter in place” orders on their residents. The effectiveness of these mitigation measures is highly dependent on the cooperation and compliance of all the members of the population. Many patients were observed to approach dental hospitals and clinics for nonemergency procedures without understanding the risk of contracting the disease.Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and attitude about the utilization of dental services during the peak of pandemic.Materials and Methods: An online questionnaire survey was prepared, and answers were collected from 355 participants residing in Tamil Nadu. Results: A total of 355 respondents were included in this preliminary report, and the mean knowledge score was 65.37%. The attitude of most respondents toward instituted preventive measures was satisfactory, with an average attitude score of 71.78%. Conclusion: The majority of the respondents had satisfactory knowledge of the disease, but the knowledge about the spread of infection from the dental office was deficient.

Facial Trauma During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Retrospective cohort study. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic on the regional trends in facial trauma at a tertiary care, level 1 trauma center in Central New York. The study sample was derived from the population of patients who presented with facial trauma to the emergency department at the Downtown and/or Community Campuses of SUNY Upstate University Hospital between March 1, 2020, and May 15, 2020, and compared to two historical controls in 2018 and 2019. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were calculated for study variables in each cohort. Poisson regression was used to compare incident rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals with significance set at P < .05. Sixty five patients presented during the COVID-19 pandemic, while 83 presented in 2019 and 95 in 2018. For the study period, the most common mechanism was assault in 47.7%. IRR was significantly lower than in 2018 (IRR = 1.46, P = .018), but not significantly different from 2019 (IRR = 1.28, P = .14). During lockdown, IRR was significantly decreased compared to 2019 (IRR = 1.84, P = .0029) and 2018 (IRR = 2.16, P < .001). The volume of facial trauma seen in Central New York appears undeterred in the absence of "shelter in place" orders. Analysis of pandemic and regional trauma variations can offer valuable insight for improved resource allocation to better prepare for potentially high-risk procedures.

At-Homeness: Rethinking Personhood-in-Community Through the Lens of Social Identity

Since Chaudhury’s seminal work (2008), spatial ethnographies of the everyday lives of people living with dementia(PLWD) have proliferated. From an experiential perspective, geographies of home (Blunt & Varley, 2004) and geographies of dementia may overlap significantly. We conducted a meta-ethnographic synthesis of n=28 articles to identify points of convergence and divergence in these literatures using comparative thematic analysis with NVivo 12. Whereas geographies of home highlight at-homeness (e.g., ontological safety and daily activities), geographies of dementia underscore communal and civic participation (e.g., social relationships). These themes converge around “social identity” which may be an important construct that helps PLWD feel at home. The quality of life of PLWD in the community may be influenced by prior (and present) experiences of at-homeness. These become more pertinent as older adults shelter in place. We discuss the implications of these findings in relation to relational models of personhood-in-community (Swinton, 2020) and community gerontology.

Vulnerability and Resilience Among Older Adults During the COVID Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is particularly challenging for many older adults. They are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing and sheltering in place to decrease morbidity and mortality risks. However, social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of mental and physical health problems. Nonetheless, there are indications that older adults may be more resilient than originally thought. Park et al. present longitudinal findings that younger adults fared worse than middle-aged or older ones, reporting greater distress and less social support, mindfulness, and emotion regulation skills. For older participants, acceptance of negative emotions and social support predicted lower distress. Choun et al. also present longitudinal data, showing that depressive symptoms decreased among older adults during the lockdown phase of the pandemic, but reflected changes in loneliness and physical health symptoms. Stellman et al. found that moderate levels of combat experience were helpful for some older Vietnam veterans coping with the pandemic, although a few found that it made coping more difficult. Turner et al. found that positive, non-familial intergenerational contacts were associated with a higher number of positive pandemic-related changes, such as finding new hobbies and meaning in work. Finally, Aldwin et al. present a social ecological approach to vulnerability and resilience. Using qualitative data, they found that stressors and resources were reported at personal, interpersonal and societal levels. Further, older adults both took comfort from and contributed to community resources during this pandemic. In summary, this symposium identified factors that contribute to older adults’ resilience during this pandemic.

Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations in an inner-city population

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic profoundly altered the way that society functioned, with resultant shifts in behavior and exposures particularly when the orders for national shelter in place were implemented in mid-March 2020. These changes may have substantially impacted patients with chronic diseases including asthma, which disproportionately affects underserved minority children.1 In addition to changes in exposures such as viruses and environmental triggers, changes in health care access and utilization impact asthma morbidity.

Telemedicine Implementation Trends in Surgical Specialties Before and after COVID-19 Shelter in Place: Adjusting to a Changing Landscape

Telemedicine Implementation Trends in Surgical Specialties Before and after COVID-19 Shelter in Place: Adjusting to a Changing Landscape

Impact of COVID-19 Mitigation Measures on Inner-City Female Youth in New York City

PurposeNew York City (NYC) was the global epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020. A “shelter in place” mandate was issued in March 2020. The effect on vulnerable populations of adolescent and young adult females has not been well documented. MethodsWe administered a monthly online survey between May and November 2020 to adolescent and young adult females participating in a longitudinal study at Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center. Surveys asked about death of loved ones, financial impacts, social interactions, exposure to dangerous situations, and mental health impacts. Differences in responses by age, race/ethnicity, and living situation were assessed, and compared to data obtained on the same cohort prior to the pandemic. ResultsFour hundred seventeen females aged 15–28 years completed at least one survey, 94% of whom were youth of color. A third of responders (33%) had lost relatives or other people they were close to (loved ones). Most (68%) reported one or more financial losses, and 21% reported food insecurity, with those not living with parents or a guardian experiencing significantly higher rates. One in 10 reported experiencing sexual abuse or interpersonal partner violence during the “shelter in place” period. Over a third (37%) reported symptoms of clinical depression, which represented a significant increase compared to before the pandemic (p = .01). The negative financial impacts and higher proportion of patients with depressive symptomatology remained elevated for adolescents without support at home. ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic had unprecedented negative short-term financial and psychosocial health impacts on inner-city female youth with potential long-term negative impacts.

Conducting STEM Industry Internships while Sheltering in Place: The Biotech Partners Experience

Before the shelter-in-place orders began, Biotech Partners (BP) was already engaged in contingency planning with its school and industry partners in an effort to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the looming health crisis. For 25 years prior, BP had successfully mentored and prepared underrepresented high school students to complete professional internships at diverse STEM institutions. Often working in a laboratory or pharmaceutical manufacturing setting, the internships allowed students to apply bioscience, biotechnology, and professional career skills developed in school within the context of a professional workplace. The promise of paid internships in a cutting-edge industry creates an incentive to motivate and maximize student learning in rigorous academic training and workforce preparation. As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, most industry sites cancelled their 2020 participation, putting the summer internships in jeopardy. BP rapidly shifted. Collaborating with new and longstanding industry partners, the internship program was modified from in-person to remote work and learning environments. This case study examines the pedagogical challenges and opportunities of conducting remote STEM internships amid a global pandemic. This paper illuminates the role of industry partnerships, student outreach, personalized mentoring, and wrap-around support services to broaden students' awareness of, interest in, and preparation for careers in the STEM workforce.

S1203 Predictors of Elevated Liver Tests During COVID-19 Shelter in Place in Those Without Known Liver Disease

Introduction: Elevated liver tests(LT) are associated with reduced liver related health. The AIM of our study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of new-onset elevated LT during COVID-19 shelter in place(SIP) in those without chronic liver disease(CLD). Methods: Retrospective cohort study examining LT in patients ³18 years at one month after SIP from 4/19/2020 until 12/31/2020(2020). We excluded patients with CLD and those hospitalized. We extracted LT, serum low density lipoprotein(LDL), serum triglyceride(TG) and demographic data. We compared LT obtained during the same time period for the same patients from 4/19/2019 to 12/31/2019(2019). Elevated LT were defined as ALT >35U/L in males, >25U/L in females, AST >40U/L, or total bilirubin (TB) >1.1 mg/dL. Among patients with normal LT in 2019, we evaluated predictors of elevated LT in 2020 using multivariate analysis. Results: We evaluated 44021 patients: median age 56 years (IQR 54-75), median weight 173.9 lb(IQR 149.2-202.9), 51.8% males, and 48.2%females. Higher rates of new onset ALT elevation were observed in females than males(18.9% vs9 .4%, p < 0.001) and was predicted by higher weight, serum TG level. Younger age was associated with lower odds of ALT elevation. We observed new onset AST elevation in 2.8% and was predicted by higher TG, systolic blood pressure, and male gender. Younger age was also associated with lower odds of AST elevation. New onset elevated TB was observed in 2.6% and was predicted by Asian or Black race compared to White race, and male gender. Lower serum TG was associated with lower odds of TB elevation. Significantly more patients had FIB-4 >3.25 in 2020(5.3%) compared to(3.8%) patients with FIB-4 >3.25 in 2019(P< 0.001). Predictors of FIB-4 >3.25 in 2020 included age(OR 1.0032, 95% CI 1.0030-1.0034,P< 0.001), male gender(OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02-1.04) and language barrier (non-English speaking) (OR1.07,95%CI1.05-1.08, P < 0.001). Conclusion: During SIP, in patients without history of CLD or hospitalization, we observed a higher rate of new onset abnormal ALT levels in females than males which were associated with features of metabolic syndrome and older age. Higher AST levels were associated with male gender, metabolic syndrome features and older age suggesting higher rates of alcohol use. We also observed higher rates of FIB-4 >3.25 in 2020 indicating worsening patterns of liver disease. Further follow-up will be required to determine the long-term effects of these changes.Table 1.: Association of patient and hospital characteristics on mortality outcomes of individuals hospitalized for venous thromboembolism and comorbid nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. REF = reference; Median household income for patient's ZIP Code (based on current year): Q1 = 0-25th percentile; Q2 = 26th to 50th percentile; Q3 = 51st to 75th percentile; Q4 = 76th to 100th percentile.

354 Decreased Emergency Department Utilization by Lower Socioeconomic Status Population as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in lower emergency department (ED) volumes. It has precipitated business and school closures along with the implementation of physical distancing measures, which culminated in a Shelter in-Place Order (SIPO) issued for a major urban area county in March 2020. The objective of this study was to determine the effect on access to healthcare by patients of different socioeconomic status by examining differences in ED volume by zip code stratified by the SocioNeeds Index.

"You Just Forge Ahead": The Continuing Challenges of Disaster Preparedness and Response in Long-Term Care.

Background and ObjectivesProtecting nursing home and assisted living community residents during disasters continues to be a challenge. The present study explores the experiences of long-term care facilities in Florida that were exposed to Hurricane Irma in 2017.Research Design and MethodsWe used an abductive approach, combining induction and deduction. Interviews and focus groups beginning in May 2018 were conducted by telephone and in person with 89 administrative staff members representing 100 facilities (30 nursing homes and 70 assisted living communities). Analyses identified themes and subthemes. Findings were further analyzed using the social ecological model to better understand the preparedness and response of nursing homes and assisted living communities to Hurricane Irma.Results3 main themes were identified including: (1) importance of collaborative relationships in anticipating needs and planning to shelter in place or evacuate; (2) efforts required to maintain safety and stability during an unprecedented event; and (3) effects, repercussions, and recommendations for change following the disaster.Discussion and ImplicationsPreparing for and managing disasters in nursing homes and assisted living communities involves actions within multiple environments beyond the residents and facilities where they live. Among these, community-level relationships are critical.

Impact of COVID-19 and Shelter in Place on Volume and Type of Traumatic Injuries.

IntroductionVery little is known about the effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and its associated social distancing practices on trauma presentations to the emergency department (ED). This study aims to assess the impact of a city-wide stay at home order on the volume, type, and outcomes of traumatic injuries at urban EDs.MethodsThe study was a retrospective chart review of all patients who presented to the ED of an urban Level I Trauma Center and its urban community affiliate in the time period during the 30 days before the institution of city-wide shelter-in-place (preSIP) order and 60 days after the shelter-in-place (SIP) order and the date-matched time periods in the preceding year. Volume and mechanism of traumatic injuries were compared using paired T-tests.ResultsThere was a significant decrease in overall ED volume. The volume of certain blunt trauma presentations (motor vehicle collisions) during the first 60 days of SIP compared to the same period from the year prior also significantly decreased. Importantly, the volume of penetrating injuries, including gunshot wounds and stab wounds, did not differ for the preSIP and SIP periods when compared to the prior year. The mortality of traumatic injuries was also unchanged during the SIP comparison period.ConclusionWhile there were significant decreases in visits to the ED and overall trauma volume, penetrating trauma, including gun violence, and other severe traumatic injuries remain a public health crisis that affects urban communities despite social distancing recommendations enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clinically significant depression among parents during the COVID-19 pandemic: Examining the protective role of family relationships.

Responding to families at heightened risk for mental health burdens during the COVID-19 pandemic is critical—evidence suggests parents face elevated burdens compared to their nonparent counterparts. Building on studies that demonstrate a spillover of stress across domains and individuals within families, this study examines longitudinal predictors of elevated risks for clinical depression among parents based on relational family indicators, COVID-specific stressors, and stress and emotion regulation indicators. Baseline data were collected from parents (n = 176;average age 37.04, 50% female) on April 27–28, 2020, 5 weeks after the first U.S. quarantines began. Follow-up data were collected 30 days later. Results indicated concerning levels of parents’ mental health symptoms over this short time span, including elevated stressors and exacerbated mental health symptoms for approximately one-quarter of parents. Given the need for agile service responses for those at the greatest risk, this article examines predictions of clinically significant depression through binary logistic regression. These individuals were more likely to report greater anxiety and stress symptoms, as well as report less closeness in their parent–child relationships;couple satisfaction was not a significant predictor of depression. Implications include recommended agile responses to alleviate distress and expand access to mental health supports, particularly in light of pervasive shelter-in place orders that limit access to previously established coping supports and sources of social connection (e.g., schools or community centers), that are anticipated to recur in the months ahead. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) © 2021 American Psychological Association

Psychosocial and mental health during the COVID-19 lockdown: A rapid qualitative study in migrant shelters at the Mexico-United States border

Introduction. Migrants could be at increased risk of the psychosocial and mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Research is needed to assess their needs and the most useful interventions in this regard. Objective. To describe the mental health consequences of the pandemic and lockdown measures among migrants living in shelters in Tijuana, Mexico, during the COVID-19 pandemic, barriers to mental healthcare during this period, and the key elements of psychosocial support provided by civil society organizations (CSOs), as described by shelters’ staff. Method. In April-May 2020, we conducted a rapid qualitative study through interviews with persons providing services at eight migrant shelters, complementing the information with data from an ongoing ethnographic project. We situated the results within the levels of the United Nations’ Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) pyramid of psychosocial and mental health support. Results. In addition to fear of contagion and economic insecurity, migrants experienced emotional distress associated with hardening migration policies, and the difficulties of having to find shelter in place in non-private spaces. Some CSOs continued or adapted previous psychosocial support activities, helping migrants navigate these issues, but other activities stopped amidst physical distancing measures and because of limited resources. Migrants themselves implemented some group activities. There was a surge of civil society initiatives of online support, but some shelters laeked the technological and other resources to benefit from them. Discussion and conclusion. Migrants require a tailor made response to their mental health needs in the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the one provided by CSOs.

Local Dental Emergencies and Mitigation Strategies Adopted by Private Dental Practitioners of South India during COVID-19 Shelter in Place Warning - Multi-Centric Online Survey

Objective: To evaluate the common dental emergencies reported to dental practitioners and to compare the mitigation strategies implemented during the Shelter-In-Place (SIP) warning with dental practitioners’ age and sex. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey among the dental practitioners of south India during the period of COVID-19 SIP warning. An initial pool of items was prepared to capture the mitigation strategies in managing local dental emergencies. A structured questionnaire was then prepared in English based on the inputs of four expert dentist panel. Age and sex of the practitioners were also recorded. Results: The mean age of the dental practitioners was 37.11(range: 23 - 63) years.Of 159 dental practitioners that responded to survey, 90 were male. Most dental practitioners responded that they were contacted through a phone call (n=140) and WhatsApp messaging (n=108). The common dental emergencies reported were tooth pain (100%), swelling (91.7%), a decayed tooth (81.3%), and gum pain (78.6%). A higher number of male than female dental practitioners had “scheduled the treatment immediately” (OR=3.45; P=0.002) after adjusting for age. Conclusion:The most common dental emergencies during COVID-19 SIP were tooth pain, swelling, decayed teeth, and gum pain. Males and older dental practitioners scheduled appointments immediately.

Exploring Faculty Perspectives during Emergency Remote Teaching in Engineering at a Large Public University

In Spring 2020, the College of Engineering at San José State University (SJSU) conducted a comprehensive analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on faculty who were forced to transition to an online learning environment. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of COVID-19 on faculty teaching methods, assessment methods, and personal well-being. The study was a combination of a quantitative survey and a qualitative study using interviews of engineering faculty teaching in Spring 2020. In the first part, we surveyed all faculty teaching during Spring 2020 in the SJSU College of Engineering about their experiences after the move to 100% online instruction in March 2020. In the second part of the research, we interviewed 23 faculty members to obtain a more in-depth understanding of their experiences during the move online in Spring 2020. Overall, 98 faculty participated in the survey: lecturers (58), tenure-track (18), tenured (13), adjunct (1), and Teaching Associates (1). The faculty reported being worried about their family and their students’ well-being. In addition, 65% of faculty members reported either a moderate or a great deal of stress related to the shelter in place, and this percentage was higher for female faculty (74%) and for tenure-track faculty (83%). Overall, faculty members felt that they had their classes under control most of the time and that the transition to online teaching was positive, even if they felt they had too much work to do and felt always in a hurry and under pressure. From a teaching perspective, the interviews highlight that faculty members’ main concerns focus on testing and assessment and students’ engagement. Overall, SJSU College of Engineering faculty members felt under stress in the transition to online teaching, especially the tenure-track faculty members, but were able to transition their classes with ease.

Exploratory Study of Determinants of the Spread of COVID-19 before Shelter-in-Place Orders.

This study explores the impact of relevant characteristics of counties and their relationship with increases in COVID-19 cases before shelter-in-place (SIP) orders in the U.S. The recent emergence of COVID-19 occurs when there is little understanding of the related factors affecting the growth and spread of the disease. These relationships are examined through an analysis of 672 counties before SIP orders were issued. Areas that experienced the most significant transmission of disease are identified, and their characteristics are analyzed. A meaningful relationship was found between the increase of COVID-19 cases and several factors. Average commute time and the proportion of commuters using transit had a positive relationship. Along with other socio-economic factors, such as median house value and proportion of the Black population, several transportation-related factors had a significant association with the transmission of the disease. The decrease rate of total vehicle miles traveled (VMT) before and after SIP orders also had a solid and positive relationship with the expansion of the disease. The findings suggest that planners and transportation service providers must integrate evolving public health considerations into transportation services which affect the increase in the transmission of infectious diseases.

Remote Implementation of a Health Promotion Program in an Underserved High School during COVID-19: Lessons Learned

Background: This study examined the impact of remote implementation of a school-based health promotion program on health beliefs and behaviors of adolescent participants from an underserved high school during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: As part of the program, Family Medicine residents trained healthy 10th grade high school students from a vulnerable community in California to become health coaches for family members with diabetes. Five of eight onehour weekly sessions were delivered remotely after shelter in place was mandated. Students completed online pre and post-participation surveys including questions on health beliefs and behaviors and experience with remote learning. We explored factors associated with the likelihood of attending the remote classes, and we used paired T-tests to compare pre-and post-scores of health beliefs and behaviors, and qualitative analysis of open-ended questions to assess differences between those who completed in person sessions only and those who attended remote sessions. Results: 45 participants completed pre-surveys and 26 of those completed postsurveys. 14 of those 26 attended remote program sessions. The 14 who attended the additional remote sessions demonstrated significant improvements in health mindsets (belief that body has self-healing properties p=.045; belief that illness is an opportunity p=.028); consumption of fruits and vegetables (p=.054); consumption of sugary drinks (p=.047); understanding of how to improve their health (p=.055); and frequency of talking about health with their families (p=.057). Participants who did not attend remote sessions did not show significant improvements in these areas. Non-attendees were more likely to be Hispanic and male. Conclusions: These findings suggest that remote health promotion programs could support the health and well-being of adolescents in underserved communities. Yet, more research is essential to ensure all adolescents can participate.

Case Studies Of Yoga For Stress Reduction During Covid-19 "shelter In Place" Conditions

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of yoga and physical exercise on cortisol levels and blood pressure during periods of stress caused by COVID19 "shelter in place" orders. METHODS: Subjects were two older adults (male and female, mean age 64). No other subjects were included due to Georgia State’s "shelter-in-place" conditions in the USA, during the IRB approved study. Activity diaries were maintained listing, 1) trips made to necessary stores between 9 and 11 am, and 2) activities performed between 11 am and 12 noon (designated as either yoga or aerobic exercise or sedentary desk work). Subjects 1) filled saliva sample tubes according to manufacturer directions (ZRT Laboratory) for cortisol determination, 2) measured oral body temperature and 3) measured wrist blood pressure (BP) with an Omron HEM-605 digital monitor at 7 am and 12 noon. Yoga sessions lasted 20 minutes (Pullen, 2009). Aerobic exercise consisted of a 20 minute brisk walk on a motorized treadmill and/or elliptical machine, at moderate intensity, as described by ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (2000). Participants answered the Perceived Stress Scale and Pandemic Stress Index instruments at study conclusion. Sentiment analysis scores of broadcast news were extracted from the New York Times to assess stress from daily reports. RESULTS: Study was conducted from April 4 -24, 2020 under "shelter in place" orders. Participants both scored low stress from the stress instruments, while the news sentiment varied, with definite negative scores. While trends in diastolic BP, heart rate and cortisol levels were inconsistent between the interventions of physical activity or yoga compared to sedentary activity, a definite trend was seen between systolic BP and the news sentiment daily measure. As the daily news sentiment score changed from -0.42 to -0.47, SBP increased from -10 to +35 mmHg change between mornings to afternoon. Correlation coefficient was 0.19 for N = 11. CONCLUSIONS: The lack of correlation in diastolic BP, heart rate and cortisol levels with intervention was probably due to small participant numbers and short study span. The correlation of systolic BP with news sentiment analysis was surprising, and indicated such measures should be included in human subject’s research concerning stress measures as a possible confounder.