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Background: Despite the well-established potent benefit of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke, access to MT has not been studied globally. We conducted a worldwide survey of countries on 6 continents to define MT access (MTA), the disparities in MTA, and its determinants on a global scale. Methods: Our survey was conducted in 75 countries through the Mission Thrombectomy 2020+ global network between November 22, 2020, and February 28, 2021. The primary end points were the current annual MTA, MT operator availability, and MT center availability. MTA was defined as the estimated proportion of patients with LVO receiving MT in a given region annually. The availability metrics were defined as ([current MT operators×50/current annual number of estimated thrombectomy-eligible LVOs]×100 = MT operator availability) and ([current MT centers×150/current annual number of estimated thrombectomy-eligible LVOs]×100= MT center availability). The metrics used optimal MT volume per operator as 50 and an optimal MT volume per center as 150. Multivariable-adjusted generalized linear models were used to evaluate factors associated with MTA. Results: We received 887 responses from 67 countries. The median global MTA was 2.79% (interquartile range, 0.70–11.74). MTA was Conclusions: Access to MT on a global level is extremely low, with enormous disparities between countries by income level. The significant determinants of MT access are the country’s per capita gross national income, prehospital LVO triage policy, and MT operator and center availability.

Background and Purpose: IV tPA (intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) utilization increased in acute ischemic stroke hospitalizations in the United States over the last decade. It is uncertain whether this increase occurred equally across all age, sex, and racial groups. Methods: Adult acute ischemic stroke hospitalizations (weighted n=4 442 657) contained in the 2008 to 2017 National Inpatient Sample were identified using International Classification of Diseases codes. Proportions of hospitalizations with IV tPA and MT were computed according to age, sex, and race. Joinpoint and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate trends over time. Results: Across this period, 32.4% of all hospitalizations were in patients ≥80 years, and 64.7% of these were women. IV tPA and MT use differed by age with highest proportion of utilization of both treatments in patients aged 18 to 39 years (IV tPA, 12.3%) and lowest percentage in patients aged ≥90 years (IV tPA, 7.9%). Utilization of both procedures increased over time in all age groups, but the pace of increase was faster in patients ≥90 years compared with patients aged 18 to 39 years (MT: odds ratio, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.20–1.35] per unit increase in year, P interaction 10% in all demographic subgroups except in Black patients 60 to 79 years and Black patients ≥80 years. Analysis of race-by-time interaction revealed the Black-vs-White treatment gaps for IV tPA (odds ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01–1.03]) and MT (odds ratio, 1.08 [95% CI,1.05–1.12]) declined over time (both P interaction Conclusions: Age- and sex-related treatment gaps in IV tPA and MT reduced over the last decade. Racial disparity in IV tPA and MT utilization persists with particularly lower frequency of usage of both acute stroke treatments in Black patients compared with White patients, but race-associated treatment gaps also declined over time.

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a known ischemic stroke risk factor. We analyzed OSA prevalence trends in hospitalized acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients and treatment utilization and outcomes among AIS patients with and without OSA. Methods: Hospitalized adults 18 and over with a primary diagnosis of AIS per ICD-9 and 10 codes recorded in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2005-2017 were identified. The diagnosis of OSA was identified by ICD-9 and 10 codes. National estimates were generated using discharge weights. Temporal trends in OSA prevalence were analyzed by logistic regression. Links between OSA and IV-tPA and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) use, mechanical ventilation, discharge disposition, and in-hospital mortality were assessed by adjusted logistic regression models. Results: Of 5,864,798 AIS patients, 234,339 (4.0%) had OSA (intravenous tPA (n=18,421; 7.9%), EVT (n=3,787; 1.6%), in-hospital deaths (n=10,422; 4.5%)). OSA rates in AIS increased from 0.16% in 2005 to 6.3% in 2017 (p-value < .001). OSA AIS patients were younger (mean age 66 vs. 73 years, p Conclusion: Prevalence of OSA among hospitalized AIS patients increased from 2005-2017. OSA AIS patients were treated at a higher rate with IV-tPA and at a similar rate with EVT. OSA AIS patients had better functional outcomes. Further study is needed to understand the mediators of favorable outcomes in AIS patients diagnosed with OSA.

Purpose: To evaluate age and sex-specific trends in prevalence of infectious and non-infectious complications (comps) following acute ischemic stroke (AIS) admissions in the United States (US) from 2006 to 2017. Methods: We identified all admissions with a primary AIS diagnosis (weighted n= 5,190,311) in the 2006-2017 National Inpatient Sample. We quantified the prevalence of infectious [pneumonia, sepsis, and urinary tract infection (UTI)] and non-infectious [acute kidney injury (AKI), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) hemorrhage and acute myocardial infarction (AMI)] comps in subgroups categorized by age and sex. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate trends in prevalence over time. Results: Across the study period, 24.3% of all AIS admissions had at least one comp but prevalence increased with age. UTI (12.2%) was the most common comp, but this was driven mainly by its high prevalence in older females (f) 60-79 y (16.0%) and F >=80 y (22.9%). AKI was the second most common comp (8.9%) in all patients, followed by pneumonia (3.3%) and AMI (2.7%). GIB (1.1%), DVT (0.9%), and PE (0.5%) were the least common. Any comp risk increased from 20.8% in 2006 to 25.9% in 2017. Risk of UTI and pneumonia declined over time (p 3-fold increase in risk across the study period (figure 1). After multivariable adjustment, AKI, AMI, PE, pneumonia, sepsis, and GIB were associated with increased odds of in-hospital death while UTI and DVT were inversely associated with mortality (all p-values < 0.01). Conclusion: Infectious comps declined, while noninfectious comps, particularly AKI, increased following AIS admissions from 2006 to 2017. Additional efforts are needed to minimize comp risk following AIS.

Background: Although there are well-established guidelines for intravenous thrombolysis (tPA) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in adult acute ischemic stroke (AIS), limited data exists in children. This study aims to investigate current trends in the utilization of tPA and MT in the pediatric AIS population and identify predictors of use. Methods: We identified all patients Results: Across the study period, 44.8% of AIS admissions were girls, and the mean age was 7.5 years (y). The overall frequency of usage of tPA was 5% and MT was 2.3% but this differed significantly by age (tPA 0-4y 0.5%; 10-14 y 4.5% and MT 5-9 y 2.4% vs 15-20 y 3.5 %). Overall tPA use increased by >100% over time: 2.5 % in 2009 to 6.3 % in 2016, but most of this increase was seen in patients 10-14 y and 15-20 y (figure 1). MT use more than doubled across the study period from 0.98 % in 2009 to 2.8 % in 2016 with the greatest increase in patients 15-20 y (figure 2). After multivariable adjustment for clinical and demographic factors, tPA use increased with age (10.8, 95%CI 2.8-41.3, for ages 15-20 vs 0-4 y). Compared to ages 0-4 y, patients 5-9 y had marginally significantly greater odds of MT use (7.6, 95%CI 1.2-48.4). There was no significant difference in odds of tPA and MT use by race and sex but patients hospitalized in the west were more likely to undergo MT compared to those in the Northeast (OR 3.7: 95%CI 1.4-9.7, p=0.008). Overall in-hospital mortality was 10.6% and this did not change significantly over the study period (p=0.791). Conclusion: Usage of tPA and MT in pediatric AIS patients increased in the US over the last decade but in-hospital mortality has not changed over time. Future studies targeted at improving stroke mortality in children are needed.

Introduction: Global incidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is reportedly decreasing, but recent studies from the United States (US) are limited. The goal of this study is to evaluate trends in the incidence of SAH in different age, sex, and ethnic subgroups in the US over the last decade. Methods: We identified all new cases of spontaneous SAH from the 2006-2017 State Inpatient Databases in New York and Florida (n = 45,703) using validated International Classification of Diseases codes. Annual incidence was calculated by combining case counts with annual Census data. Joinpoint regression was used to trend incidence over time. Results: From 2006-2017, the mean age of SAH patients was 61.8 years and 59.3% were women. The proportion of smokers was 27.2% and this significantly increased over time (p=65: W 26.8-33.2, M 20.9-31.2). On Joinpoint regression, M >=65 yo had the highest annualized percentage change in incidence of 3.1% (95% CI 2.0-4.3). M 45-64 yo had an increase of 1.7% (95% CI 0.9-2.5) and W >=65 yo had an increase of 1.3% (95% CI 0.4-2.2). Incidence declined in W 20-44 yo by -1.0% per year while M 20-44 yo remained unchanged (Figure 1). On stratification by race, age and sex-standardized incidence was highest among African Americans (14.6-18.6 per 100,000), followed by Whites (10.0-11.9), Latino (8.0-11.3), and Asians (6.6-9.9). Conclusion: When compared to European studies, US residents have a higher incidence of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage. The incidence of SAH is increasing in the older population and is highest among women and African Americans.

To compare in-hospital mortality between intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients in rural hospitals to those in urban hospitals of the USA. We used the National Inpatient Sample to retrospectively identify all cases of ICH in the USA over the period 2004–2014. We used multivariable-adjusted models to compare odds of mortality between rural and urban hospitals. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends in age- and sex-adjusted mortality in rural and urban hospitals over time. From 2004 to 2014, 5.8% of ICH patients were admitted in rural hospitals. Rural patients were older (mean [SE] 76.0 [0.44] years vs. 68.8 [0.11] years in urban), more likely to be white and have Medicare insurance. Age- and sex-adjusted mortality was greater in rural hospitals (32.2%) compared to urban patients (26.5%) (p value

Cerebral venous injury (CVI) includes injury to a dural venous sinus or major vein and leads to poorer outcomes for patients with blunt traumatic brain injury (TBI). We sought to identify the incidence, associated factors, and outcomes associated with CVI in a large national cohort.Adult patients with blunt TBI were identified from the National Trauma Databank (2013-2017). Outcomes included inpatient mortality, discharge disposition, stroke, length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit LOS, and duration of mechanical ventilation. Multivariate regression models were used to identify the association between exposure variables and CVI, as well as each outcome.There were 619,659 patients with blunt TBI who met the inclusion criteria. CVI occurred in 1792 (0.3%) patients. Mixed intracranial injury type had the strongest association with CVI (odds ratio [OR] 2.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.38-3.50), followed by isolated TBI (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.54-2.02) and skull fracture (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.55-1.91). CVI was associated with increased odds of mortality (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.19-1.60), nonroutine discharge (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.12-1.40), and stroke (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.33-2.86). It was also associated with longer LOS (β 2.02, 95% CI 1.55-2.50) and intensive care unit LOS (β 0.14, 95% CI 0.13-0.16). Among locations of venous injury, superior sagittal sinus injury had significant associations with mortality (OR 2.93, 95% CI 1.62-5.30) and nonroutine discharge disposition (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.12-3.35), whereas the others did not.We identified a 0.3% incidence of CVI in all-comers with blunt TBI as well as several injury-related variables that may be used to guide investigation for dural venous sinus injury. CVI was associated with poorer outcomes, with superior sagittal sinus injury having the strongest association.

Objectives: 1. To estimate sex- and race-specific incidence of pediatric stroke by age group 2. To describe trends in pediatric stroke incidence in New York(NY) from 2006 to 2016 Methods: International Classification of Disease codes were used to retrospectively to identify all acute ischemic stroke (AIS), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) admissions in pediatric patients (0-19 years old [yo]) in the 2006-2016 NY State Inpatients Database (SID; total N=4,083). Incident counts were combined with annual US Census data to compute age- and sex-specific incidence. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends in incidence over time. Results: Across the study period, 52% of all pediatric strokes were AIS, 23% ICH, 11% SAH, and 14% CVT. Total stroke incidence/100,000 population was 47.8 and the age-standardized incidence in >=1yo was 4.8. Incidence differed by age (1-4yo: 4.4, 5-9yo: 3.6, 10-14yo: 4.5, and 15-19yo: 6.7), but not by sex. Age-standardized incidence of strokes in >=1yo also differed by race (Blacks 5.9, Whites 4.0, Hispanics 3.3, Asians/Pacific Islanders 3.1). While there was no change in overall stroke, AIS, or SAH incidence, ICH (annualized percentage change [APC] 4.3%, 95%CI 1.7-6.9) and CVT (APC 4.1, 95%CI 1.22-6.25%) increased over time. When stratified by age, overall stroke incidence increased over time in 15-19 yo (APC 1.3%, 95%CI 0.27-2.35, p=0.019), but not in other age groups. Conclusion: We observed increasing incidence in pediatric ICH, CVT, and overall stroke in 15-19 yo in the state of NY. Pediatric stroke incidence in NY is disproportionately higher in blacks compared to other races. Further investigation is warranted to determine the association of these changes with risk factors, lifestyle and systems of care.

Objective: To test the hypothesis that placement of percutaneous feeding tubes (PEG) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients has declined following increased usage of intravenous thrombolysis (IV-tPA) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) over the last decade. Methods: We identified all primary adult AIS admissions contained in the 2005-2017 National Inpatient Sample using International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes. Age and sex-specific proportions of hospitalizations with coexisting ICD procedural codes for PEG were computed. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends over time. Multivariable adjusted logistic regression was used to compare odds of PEG use between periods and demographic subgroups. Results: From 2005-2017, 4.3% of all AIS hospitalizations had coexisting codes for PEG but usage differed by age, with highest proportion of usage in patients >=80 year old (y.o) (5.2%) and lowest frequency of usage in adults 18-39 y.o (2.7%). On joinpoint regression, there was no significant change in PEG use from 2005-2009, usage declined annually by -3.0% from 2009-2015 (95%CI -4.2% to -1.8%) and then declined sharply by -9.2% (95%CI -13.4 to -4.8%) from 2015 to 2017 (figure 1). The pace of decline was faster in patients >=80y.o compared to other age groups. After multivariable adjustment for clinical and hospital level factors, patients hospitalized in the period 2014-2017 had 25% reduced odds of PEG when compared to admissions in the period 2005-2009 (OR 0.76, 95%CI 0.72-0.79). Female sex and white race were associated with lower odds of PEG compared to males and black patients, respectively. IV-tPA and MT usage increased over time with marked increase in usage after 2015. Conclusion: Overall the rate at which PEG tube have been utilized has decreased significantly over the last decade. This decrease is likely from multifactorial advances in acute stroke (IV-tPA and MT) and post stroke neuro critical care.

The development of the endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) technique has revolutionized acute stroke management for patients with large vessel occlusions (LVOs). The impact of successful recanalization using an EVT on autoregulatory profiles is unknown. A more complete understanding of cerebral autoregulation in the context of EVT may assist with post-procedure hemodynamic optimization to prevent complications. We examined cerebral autoregulation in 107 patients with an LVO in the anterior circulation (proximal middle cerebral artery (M1/2) and internal cerebral artery (ICA) terminus) who had been treated using an EVT. Dynamic cerebral autoregulation was assessed at multiple time points, ranging from less than 24 hours to 5 days following last seen well (LSW) time, using transcranial Doppler ultrasound recordings and transfer function analysis. Complete (Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 3) recanalization was associated with a more favorable autoregulation profile compared with TICI 2b or poorer recanalization (p < 0.05), which is an effect that was present after accounting for differences in the infarct volumes. Less effective autoregulation in the first 24 h following the LSW time was associated with increased rates of parenchymal hematoma types 1 and 2 hemorrhagic transformations (PH1–PH2). These data suggest that patients with incomplete recanalization and poor autoregulation (especially within the first 24 h post-LSW time) may warrant closer blood pressure monitoring and control in the first few days post ictus.

Background: The primary aim of this study is to describe current trends in racial-, age- and sex-specific incidence, clinical characteristics and burden of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) in the United States (US). Methods: Validated International Classification of Disease codes were used to identify all adult new cases of CVT (n=5,567) in the State Inpatients Database of New York and Florida (2006-2016) and all cases of CVT in the entire US from the National Inpatient Sample 2005-2016 (weighted n=57,315). Incident CVT counts were combined with annual US Census data to compute age and sex-specific incidence of CVT. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends in incidence over time. Results: From 2005-2016, 0.47%-0.80% of all strokes in the US were CVTs but this proportion increased by 70.4% over time. Of all CVTs over this period, 66.7% were in females but this proportion declined over time (p Conclusion: The epidemiological characteristics of CVT patients in the US is changing. Incidence increased significantly over the last decade. Further studies are needed to determine whether this increase represents a true increase from changing risk factors or artefactual increase from improved detection.

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate current trends in racial, age, and sex-specific utilization of decompressive hemicraniectomy (HC) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients in the United States over the last decade. Methods: All adult patients with a diagnosis of AIS were identified from the 2004-2015 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (weighted N=4,792,428) using International Classification of Diseases Ninth revision (ICD-9) codes. Proportion of patients undergoing HC in various age, race, and sex groups were ascertained using ICD-9 procedural codes. Temporal trends were mapped by year in order to track changes in utilization over time. Analysis of utilization disparities and trends within age, sex, and race subgroups was conducted via multivariate logistic regression. Results: Of all eligible AIS patients from 2004-2015, 0.25% underwent HC (.08 in 2004 to .46 in 2015). Increased utilization over time was seen in both men (.13 to .57) and women (.08 to .54), with women showing comparable odds of utilization to men [OR: 0.95 (95% CI: .87-1.04, p=0.27)]. Similarly, increased utilization trends were seen in all age groups (Figure 1) with the highest rates in the 18-39 subgroup (1.41%). Compared to trends in this younger subgroup (.43 to 2.12), patients aged 60-79 experienced a similar overall increase but at lower utilization rates (.06 to .37). Compared to white patients in multivariate models, blacks did not show significant differences in odds of HC [1.09 (.96-1.24, p=0.20)], while patients from Hispanic [1.25 (1.03-1.51, p=0.02)] and other [1.26 (1.04-1.52, p=0.02)] race-ethnic groups showed increased odds. Conclusions: From 2004-2015, hemicraniectomy rates have seen substantial increases in all age, sex, and race groups. The increasing rates of hemicraniectomies among those over age 60 suggest that there has been at least partial acceptance of DESTINY 2 study results.

Objective:To evaluate trends in prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse) and cardiovascular diseases (carotid stenosis, chronic renal failure [CRF], and coronary artery disease [CAD]) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the United States.Methods:We used the 2004–2014 National Inpatient Sample to compute weighted prevalence of each risk factor in hospitalized patients with AIS and used joinpoint regression to evaluate change in prevalence over time.Results:Across the 2004–2014 period, 92.5% of patients with AIS had ≥1 risk factor. Overall age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse were 79%, 34%, 47%, 15%, and 2%, respectively, while those of carotid stenosis, CRF, and CAD were 13%, 12%, and 27%, respectively. Risk factor prevalence varied by age (hypertension: 44% in 18–39 years vs 82% in 60–79 years), race (diabetes: Hispanic 49% vs white 30%), and sex (drug abuse: men 3% vs women 1.4%). Using joinpoint regression, prevalence of hypertension increased annually by 1.4%, diabetes by 2%, dyslipidemia by 7%, smoking by 5%, and drug abuse by 7%. Prevalence of CRF, carotid stenosis, and CAD increased annually by 13%, 6%, and 1%, respectively. Proportion of patients with multiple risk factors also increased over time.Conclusions:Despite numerous guidelines and prevention initiatives, prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse in AIS increased across the 2004–2014 period. Proportion of patients with carotid stenosis, CRF, and multiple risk factors also increased. Enhanced risk factor modification strategies and implementation of evidence-based recommendations are needed for optimal stroke prevention.

ObjectiveTo determine the association between alcohol abuse (AA) and alcohol withdrawal (AW) with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) outcomes.MethodsAll adult AIS admissions in the United States from 2004 to 2014 were identified from the National Inpatient Sample (weighted n = 4,438,968). Multivariable-adjusted models were used to evaluate the association of AW with in-hospital medical complications, mortality, cost, and length of stay in patients with AIS.ResultsOf the AA admissions, 10.6% of patients, representing 0.4% of all AIS, developed AW. The prevalence of AA and AW in AIS increased by 45.2% and 40.0%, respectively, over time (p for trend 50% increased odds of urinary tract infection, pneumonia, sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, deep venous thrombosis, and acute renal failure compared to those without AW. Patients with AW were also 32% more likely to die during their AIS hospitalization compared to those without AW (odds ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.11–1.58). AW was associated with ≈15-day increase in length of stay and ≈$5,000 increase in hospitalization cost (p < 0.001).ConclusionAW is associated with increased cost, longer hospitalizations, and higher odds of medical complications and in-hospital mortality after AIS. Proactive surveillance and management of AW may be important in improving outcomes in these patients.

ObjectiveTo test the hypothesis that race-, age-, and sex-specific incidence of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) has increased in the United States over the last decade.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, validated ICD codes were used to identify all new cases of CVT (n = 5,567) in the State Inpatients Databases (SIDs) of New York and Florida (2006–2016). A new CVT case was defined as first hospitalization for CVT in the SID without prior CVT hospitalization. CVT counts were combined with annual Census data to compute incidence. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate trends in incidence over time.ResultsFrom 2006 to 2016, annual age- and sex-standardized incidence of CVT in cases per 1 million population ranged from 13.9 to 20.2, but incidence varied significantly by sex (women 20.3–26.9, men 6.8–16.8) and by age/sex (women 18–44 years of age 24.0–32.6, men 18–44 years of age 5.3–12.8). Incidence also differed by race (Blacks: 18.6–27.2; Whites: 14.3–18.5; Asians: 5.1–13.8). On joinpoint regression, incidence increased across 2006 to 2016, but most of this increase was driven by an increase in all age groups of men (combined annualized percentage change [APC] 9.2%, p < 0.001), women 45 to 64 years of age (APC 7.8%, p < 0.001), and women ≥65 years of age (APC 7.4%, p < 0.001). Incidence in women 18 to 44 years of age remained unchanged over time.ConclusionCVT incidence is disproportionately higher in Blacks compared to other races. New CVT hospitalizations increased significantly over the last decade mainly in men and older women. Further studies are needed to determine whether this increase represents a true increase from changing risk factors or an artifactual increase from improved detection.

Objective: Prevalence of alcohol abuse (AA) in the United States (US) is on the increase. AA patients may develop alcohol withdrawal (AW) during hospitalization, but it remains unknown how AW influences acute ischemic stroke (AIS) outcome. Methods: All adult AIS admissions in the US from 2004–2014 were identified from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) (weighted N=4,438,968). Multivariable-adjusted models were used to evaluate the association of AW with in-hospital medical complications, mortality, cost, and length-of-stay in patients with AIS. Results: During this period, 3.9% of all AIS admissions had comorbid codes for AA but prevalence differed significantly by age; 10.6% of AA patients, representing 0.4% of all AIS, developed AW. Prevalence of AA and AW in AIS increased by 45.2% and 40.0%, respectively, over time (p-value for trend 50% increased odds of urinary tract infection, pneumonia, sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, deep venous thrombosis, and acute renal failure compared to those without AW. Patients with AW were also 32% more likely to die during their AIS hospitalization compared to those without AW (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.11–1.58). AW was associated with 15-day increase in length-of-stay and $5,000 increase in hospitalization cost (p-values Conclusions: AW is associated with increased cost, longer hospitalizations, and higher odds of medical complications and in-hospital mortality following AIS. Proactive surveillance and management of AW may be important in improving outcomes in these patients.

To evaluate trends in atrial fibrillation (AF) prevalence in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and TIA in the United States.We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to retrospectively compute weighted prevalence of AF in AIS (n = 4,355,140) and TIA (n = 1,816,459) patients admitted to US hospitals from 2004 to 2013. Multivariate-adjusted models were used to evaluate the association of AF with clinical factors, mortality, length of stay, and cost.From 2004 to 2013, AF prevalence increased by 22% in AIS (20%-24%) and by 38% in TIA (12%-17%). AF prevalence varied by age (AIS: 6% in 50-59 vs 37% in ≥80 years; TIA: 4% in 50-59 vs 24% in ≥80 years), sex (AIS: male 19% vs female 25%; TIA: male 15% vs female 14%), race (AIS: white 26% vs black 12%), and region (AIS: Northeast 25% vs South 20%). Advancing age, female sex, white race, high income, and large hospital size were associated with increased odds of AF in AIS. AF in AIS was a risk factor for in-hospital death (odds ratio 1.93, 95% confidence interval 1.89-1.98) but mortality in AIS with AF decreased from 11.6% to 8.3% (p0.001). Compared to no AF, AF was associated with increased cost of $2,310 and length of stay 1.1 days in AIS.AF prevalence in AIS and TIA has continued to increase. Disparity in AF prevalence in AIS and TIA exists by patient and hospital factors. AF is associated with increased mortality in AIS. Innovative AIS preventive strategies are needed in patients with AF, especially in the elderly.

We thank Dr. Hsieh for the interest in our study that investigated prevalence of vascular risk factors in stroke patients.1

Background: Data on trends in intravenous thrombolysis (tPA) and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients are outdated. We aim to: (1) Evaluate current age and sex-specific trends in tPA and MT usage following AIS in the USA (2) Compare in-hospital mortality and moderate-to-severe disability between men and women following tPA and/or MT. Methods: A total of 4,579,246 admissions was identified with the diagnosis of AIS from 2004-2014 using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). Patients receiving IV tPA and/or MT were identified using ICD-9 procedural codes and Medicare Diagnosis-related Group codes. Weights provided in the NIS were used to compute overall unadjusted weighted frequency of IV tPA and MT in subgroups characterized by age and sex. Multivariate models were used to evaluate trends in tPA and MT usage in both sexes and to assess their association with in-hospital mortality and moderate-to-severe disability. Results: Across the study period from 2004 to 2014, tPA use increased by >300% in both men (1.8% to 8.0%) and women (1.3% to 7.7%) but by 2014 marked disparity still existed by age (figure 1). MT use also increased by >300% from 2004-2014 in both sexes (males 0.1% to 2.1% versus females 0.1 to 1.8%) but proportion of younger patients (18-39 years) receiving MT was higher compared to other age groups in both men and women (figure 1). After multivariable adjustment, there is no significant difference in MT amongst either sex, but women were less likely to receive IV tPA (OR 0.92, 95%CI 0.90-0.94, p Conclusion: TPA and MT use has increased significantly in the USA over the last decade but disparities in tPA usage and outcome by age and sex still exist.

Background: The Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy vs. Stenting Trial (CREST) showed greater safety of carotid artery stenting (CAS) in patients (pts) 70 yo. The aim of this study was to evaluate national patterns in CAS performance in pts >70yo in the pre- (2007-2010) and post-CREST (2011-2013) era. Methods: Adults requiring CAS or CEA were identified from the 2007-2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) using International Classification of Disease (ICD-9) codes. We estimated the proportion of CAS performed in all age groups and used multivariate models adjusted for clinical and hospital factors to compare odds of receiving CAS in the pre- to post-CREST era. Results: We identified 839,357 weighted cases of CAS and CEA from the NIS. 15.7% of CAS and 8.4% of CEA were performed in symptomatic pts. CAS increased in all age groups over time (figure 1). Proportion of >70yo receiving CAS increased from 11.9% in the pre- to 13.9% in the post-CREST era (p=0.004). In multivariate models, odds of receiving CAS as opposed to CEA increased by 15% in all pts >70yo in the post-CREST compared to the pre-CREST period (OR 1.15, 95%CI 1.10-1.19, p70yo, while female sex (OR 0.92, 95%CI =0.89-0.97), smoking (OR 0.84, 95%CI 0.79-0.90) and weekend admission (OR 0.78, 95%CI 0.70-0.86) were negatively associated with odds of CAS. Conclusion: Rates of CAS increased in the post- compared to pre-CREST era in pts >70yo including asymptomatic women. Despite the concerns of higher periprocedural complications with CAS in elderly pts, the results of CREST have not influenced clinical revascularization practice in pts >70yo.

Background: Temporal data on secondary intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) risk in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients (pts) is sparse since implementation of current measures to lessen times to intravenous thrombolysis (tPA) and/or endovascular reperfusion. Aims: (1) Evaluate trends in SICH prevalence in AIS pts in the United States from 2004-2013 and to compare SICH risk following tPA and mechanical thrombectomy (MT) from 2011-2013 to risk in earlier periods. (2) Assess the magnitude of the current association of SICH with in-hospital morbidities and mortality in AIS. Methods: All adults with a primary diagnosis of AIS (n=4,355,140) were identified from the 2004-2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample. We computed weighted risk of SICH in AIS according to age, sex and intervention received (tPA, MT or no-intervention). Multivariate models were used to compare SICH risks in the period 2004-2007 to periods 2008-2010 and 2011-2013, respectively, and to evaluate association of SICH with in-hospital morbidity, mortality, length-of-stay (LOS) and cost. Results: SICH risk increased over the study period but most of the increase occurred after 2010 (figure 1). From the period 2004-2007 to period 2011-2013, SICH risk increased by 75% in IV tPA pts (4.8%-8.4%), 164% in MT pts (8.1%-21.4%) and by 367.8% in no-intervention pts (0.5%-2.3%). Risks increased with age but only in tPA pts and did not vary by sex in both tPA and MT pts after multivariate adjustment. SICH was associated with >200% increased odds of ventilator use, pneumonia, sepsis, acute renal failure, deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and 67% reduced odds of home disposition compared to non-SICH. Mortality in SICH decreased from 26% to 18.3% compared to 6.1% to 4.0% in the non-SICH patients over the entire period. SICH was associated with >$8,000 increase in cost and >3-day increase in mean LOS. Conclusion: The burden of SICH in AIS is growing. Innovative strategies are needed to prevent SICH and/or alleviate its sequelae.

Background and Purpose— Data on medical complications after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are sparse. We assessed trends in the prevalence of urinary tract infection, pneumonia, sepsis, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, acute renal failure (ARF), and acute myocardial infarction after ICH in the United States. Methods— A total of 575 211 adult ICH cases were identified from the 2004 to 2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Weighted complication risks were computed by sex and mechanical ventilation status. Multivariate models were used to evaluate trends in complications and assess their association with in-hospital mortality, cost, and length of stay. Results— Overall risks of urinary tract infection, pneumonia, sepsis, DVT, pulmonary embolism, ARF, and acute myocardial infarction after ICH were 14.8%, 7.8%, 4.1%, 2.7%, 0.7%, 8.2%, and 2.0%, respectively, but risk differed by sex and mechanical ventilation status. From 2004 to 2013, odds of DVT and ARF increased, whereas odds of pneumonia, sepsis, and mortality declined over time. All complications were associated with >2.5-day increase in length of stay and >$8000 increase in cost. ARF and acute myocardial infarction were associated with increased mortality in all patients; sepsis and pneumonia were associated with increased mortality only in nonmechanical ventilation patients, whereas urinary tract infection and DVT were associated with reduced mortality in all patients. Conclusions— Despite significant mortality reduction, ARF and DVT risk after ICH have increased, whereas odds of sepsis and pneumonia have declined over the last decade. All complications were associated with increased cost and length of stay, but their associations with mortality were variable, likely due in part to survival bias. Innovative strategies are needed to prevent ICH-associated medical complications.

Background: Large scale data on atrial fibrillation (AF) prevalence in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is sparse since approval of dabigatran for non-valvular AF in 2010. We studied recent trends in prevalence of AF in AIS and transient ischemic attack (TIA) in the United States (US) and association of AF with in-hospital mortality, cost and length of stay (LOS) in AIS. Methods: Adults admitted to US hospitals from 2007-2012 with diagnosis of AIS (n=3,427,806) and TIA (n=502,820) were identified from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Weighted prevalence of AF in AIS and TIA by demographics and region was computed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate association of AF with other clinical factors and mortality in AIS. Association of AF with LOS and cost was assessed using generalized linear models. Results: AF prevalence increased by 11.5% in AIS (22%-24.5%, p80yo; TIA: 5% in 50-59yo vs 27% in >80yo), sex (AIS: 20% in M vs 25% in F); TIA: 16% in M vs 15% in F), race (AIS: whites 26% vs blacks 12%) and region (AIS: Northeast 25% vs South 21%). AF prevalence increased in all subgroups over time (p2 DS 2 -VASc score and large hospital size were associated with increased odds of AF in AIS. AF was positively associated with death (OR=1.60, 95%CI 1.56-1.64) but mortality in AIS with AF decreased from 13.2% in 2007 to 10.7% in 2012 (p Conclusion: Prevalence of AF in AIS and TIA has continued to increase. Disparity in AF prevalence in AIS and TIA exists by patient and hospital factors. AF is associated with increased mortality, LOS and hospital cost in AIS but mortality in AIS with AF is decreasing. More AIS preventive efforts are needed in AF patients especially in the elderly.

The Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy vs Stenting Trial (CREST) showed greater safety of carotid artery stenting (CAS) in patients younger than 70 years and carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in those older than 70 years. It is unknown how the result of CREST has influenced carotid revascularization choices in the United States.To evaluate national patterns in CAS performance in patients older than 70 years in the post-CREST (2011-2014) compared with the pre-CREST (2007-2010) era.All adults older than 70 years undergoing carotid revascularization in the United States from 2007 to 2014 were retrospectively identified from the 2007-2014 National Inpatient Sample using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision procedural codes. From 61 324 882 unweighted hospitalizations contained in the 2007-2014 National Inpatient Sample, 494 733 weighted carotid revascularization admissions in adults older than 70 years were identified using International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision procedural codes.The proportion of CAS performed in all age groups over time was estimated and multivariable-adjusted models were used to compare the odds of receiving CAS in the pre-CREST with those in the post-CREST era in adults older than 70 years.A total of 41.8% of all patients were women, and mean (SE) age at presentation was 78.1 (0.03) years. A total of 16.3% of CAS and 10.1% of CEA procedures were performed in patients with symptomatic stenosis. The proportion of patients older than 70 years receiving CAS increased from 11.9% in the pre-CREST to 13.8% in the post-CREST era (P = .005). In multivariable models, the odds of receiving CAS increased by 13% in all patients older than 70 years in the post-CREST compared with the pre-CREST period (odds ratio [OR], 1.13, 95% CI, 1.00-1.28, P = .04), including symptomatic women (OR, 1.31, 1.05-1.65, P = .02). Symptomatic stenosis (OR 1.39; 95% CI, 1.27-1.52; P .001), congestive heart failure (OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.35-1.63; P .001), and peripheral vascular disease (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.27-1.43; P .001) were associated with higher odds of CAS; comorbid hypertension (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.66-0.74; P .001), smoking (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.78-0.91; P .001), and weekend admission (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.68-0.88; P .001) were negatively associated with the odds of CAS.Despite concerns for higher periprocedural complications with CAS in elderly patients, the odds of CAS increased in the post-CREST compared with pre-CREST era in patients older than 70 years, including symptomatic women.

Background Effects of major dietary macronutrients on glucose-insulin homeostasis remain controversial and may vary by the clinical measures examined. We aimed to assess how saturated fat (SFA), monounsaturated fat (MUFA), polyunsaturated fat (PUFA), and carbohydrate affect key metrics of glucose-insulin homeostasis. Methods and Findings We systematically searched multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, OVID, BIOSIS, Web-of-Knowledge, CAB, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, SIGLE, Faculty1000) for randomised controlled feeding trials published by 26 Nov 2015 that tested effects of macronutrient intake on blood glucose, insulin, HbA1c, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion in adults aged ≥18 years. We excluded trials with non-isocaloric comparisons and trials providing dietary advice or supplements rather than meals. Studies were reviewed and data extracted independently in duplicate. Among 6,124 abstracts, 102 trials, including 239 diet arms and 4,220 adults, met eligibility requirements. Using multiple-treatment meta-regression, we estimated dose-response effects of isocaloric replacements between SFA, MUFA, PUFA, and carbohydrate, adjusted for protein, trans fat, and dietary fibre. Replacing 5% energy from carbohydrate with SFA had no significant effect on fasting glucose (+0.02 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.01, +0.04; n trials = 99), but lowered fasting insulin (-1.1 pmol/L; -1.7, -0.5; n = 90). Replacing carbohydrate with MUFA lowered HbA1c (-0.09%; -0.12, -0.05; n = 23), 2 h post-challenge insulin (-20.3 pmol/L; -32.2, -8.4; n = 11), and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (-2.4%; -4.6, -0.3; n = 30). Replacing carbohydrate with PUFA significantly lowered HbA1c (-0.11%; -0.17, -0.05) and fasting insulin (-1.6 pmol/L; -2.8, -0.4). Replacing SFA with PUFA significantly lowered glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide, and HOMA. Based on gold-standard acute insulin response in ten trials, PUFA significantly improved insulin secretion capacity (+0.5 pmol/L/min; 0.2, 0.8) whether replacing carbohydrate, SFA, or even MUFA. No significant effects of any macronutrient replacements were observed for 2 h post-challenge glucose or insulin sensitivity (minimal-model index). Limitations included a small number of trials for some outcomes and potential issues of blinding, compliance, generalisability, heterogeneity due to unmeasured factors, and publication bias. Conclusions This meta-analysis of randomised controlled feeding trials provides evidence that dietary macronutrients have diverse effects on glucose-insulin homeostasis. In comparison to carbohydrate, SFA, or MUFA, most consistent favourable effects were seen with PUFA, which was linked to improved glycaemia, insulin resistance, and insulin secretion capacity., In a meta-analysis of feeding trials, Fumiaki Imamura and colleagues examine how dietary intake of fats and carbohydrate impact glucose-insulin homeostasis., Author Summary Why Was This Study Done? Effects of dietary fat and carbohydrate on metabolic health have been controversial, leading to confusion about specific dietary guidelines and priorities. To date there has not been a systematic evaluation of all available evidence to quantify the effects of dietary fat (saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fat), and carbohydrate on various markers mediating the development of diabetes, including blood sugar, insulin sensitivity, and ability to produce insulin. What Did the Researchers Do and Find? We systematically identified and summarized findings of 102 randomised controlled trials, including a total of 4,660 participants, that provided meals varying in the types and levels of fat and carbohydrate to study participants and evaluated how such variations affected various measures of blood glucose control, insulin sensitivity, and ability to produce insulin. The findings suggest exchanging dietary carbohydrate with saturated fat does not appreciably influence markers of blood glucose control. On the other hand, substituting carbohydrate and saturated fat with a diet rich in unsaturated fat, particularly polyunsaturated fat, was beneficial for the regulation of blood sugar. What Do These Findings Mean? These findings may help inform scientists, clinicians, and the public on dietary priorities related to dietary fats and carbohydrates and metabolic health. This investigation suggests that consuming more unsaturated fats in place of either carbohydrates or saturated fats will help improve blood glucose control. Sole emphasis on lowering consumption of carbohydrates or saturated fats would not be optimal. Translated to foods, these findings support benefits of increasing consumption of vegetable oils and spreads, nuts, fish, and vegetables rich in unsaturated fats (e.g., avocado), in place of either animal fats or refined grains, starches, and sugars.

Background and Purpose— Cerebral autoregulation may be impaired in the early days after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between cerebral autoregulation and angiographic vasospasm (aVSP) and radiographic delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) in patients with SAH. Methods— Sixty-eight patients (54±13 years) with a diagnosis of nontraumatic SAH were studied. Dynamic cerebral autoregulation was assessed using transfer function analysis (phase and gain) of the spontaneous blood pressure and blood flow velocity oscillations on days 2 to 4 post-SAH. aVSP was diagnosed using a 4-vessel conventional angiogram. DCI was diagnosed from CT. Decision tree models were used to identify optimal cut-off points for clinical and physiological predictors of aVSP and DCI. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to develop and validate a risk scoring tool for each outcome. Results— Sixty-two percent of patients developed aVSP, and 19% developed DCI. Patients with aVSP had higher transfer function gain (1.06±0.33 versus 0.89±0.30; P =0.04) and patients with DCI had lower transfer function phase (17.5±39.6 versus 38.3±18.2; P =0.03) compared with those who did not develop either. Multivariable scoring tools using transfer function gain >0.98 and phase Conclusions— Dynamic cerebral autoregulation is impaired in the early days after SAH. Including autoregulation as part of the initial clinical and radiographic assessment may enhance our ability to identify patients at a high risk for developing secondary complications after SAH.

Introduction Although some US food manufacturers have reduced trans fatty acids (TFA) in their products, it is unknown how much TFA is being reduced, whether pace of reformulation has changed over time, or whether reformulations vary by food type or manufacturer. Methods In 2007, we identified 360 brand-name products in major US supermarkets that contained 0.5 g TFA or more per serving. In 2008, 2010, and 2011, product labels were re-examined to determine TFA content; ingredients lists were also examined in 2011 for partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVO). We assessed changes in TFA content among the 270 products sold in all years between 2007 and 2011 and conducted sensitivity analyses on the 90 products discontinued after 2007. Results By 2011, 178 (66%) of the 270 products had reduced TFA content. Most reformulated products (146 of 178, 82%) reduced TFA to less than 0.5 g per serving, although half of these 146 still contained PHVO. Among all 270 products, mean TFA content decreased 49% between 2007 and 2011, from 1.9 to 0.9 g per serving. Yet, mean TFA reduction slowed over time, from 30.3% (2007–2008) to 12.1% (2008–2010) to 3.4% (2010–2011) (P value for trend < .001). This slowing pace was due to both fewer reformulations among TFA-containing products at start of each period and smaller TFA reductions among reformulated products. Reformulations also varied substantially by both food category and manufacturer, with some eliminating or nearly eliminating TFA and others showing no significant changes. Sensitivity analyses were similar to main findings. Conclusions Some US products and food manufacturers have made progress in reducing TFA, but substantial variation exists by food type and by parent company, and overall progress has significantly slowed over time. Because TFA consumption is harmful even at low levels, our results emphasize the need for continued efforts toward reformulating or discontinuing foods to eliminate PHVO.

Background: Effects of saturated fat (SFA), monounsaturated fat (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) on blood glucose, insulin sensitivity (IS), and β cell function are not well established. Aim: To systematically quantify the effects of dietary fats on glucose homeostasis in randomized controlled feeding trials (RCTs). Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched 11 databases for RCTs testing effects of isocaloric diets of varying dietary fat composition on glucose-insulin metrics in adults. We excluded RCTs of supplements or diet advice rather than provision of diets. Data were extracted independently and in duplicate. Using multivariate meta-regression, we estimated dose-response effects of isocaloric exchange of major macronutrients (SFA, MUFA, PUFA, carbohydrate [CHO]), adjusting for protein and fiber, and assessed heterogeneity (α=0.001 adjusted for multiple testing) by prespecified factors. Results: Of 3,661 identified abstracts, 84 RCTs met inclusion criteria, comprising 195 diet arms in 4,837 adults (19-74 y). Replacing CHO with SFA raised fasting glucose (FG), while MUFA and PUFA lowered FG ( Table ). Findings were concordant for HbA1C. Effects on FG were strongest in diabetics and Asians (P interaction Conclusions: SFA raises, while MUFA and PUFA reduce FG and HbA1c. Effects are stronger in diabetics and Asians. Our meta-analysis provides robust quantitative evidence on effects of major dietary fats on glucose-insulin metrics, directing further research and dietary guidelines.

Introduction: We have previously shown that early impairments in dynamic cerebral autoregulation are strongly associated with subsequent development of angiographic cerebral vasospasm. While angiographic cerebral vasospasm is associated with delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), the relationship between cerebral autoregulation and DCI has not been previously investigated. Our study is designed to specifically test the relationship between early changes in dynamic cerebral autoregulation and subsequent development of DCI. Methods: Thirty-nine consecutive patients with acute non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and adequate transcranial Doppler windows, presenting within 24 hours of symptom onset, have been prospectively studied so far. Daily 5-minute measures of continuous beat-to-beat bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow velocity and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) recordings were obtained on days 1-10. Transfer function analysis of spontaneous MAP and MCA mean flow velocity (MFV) oscillations were performed in the very low (0.03-0.07 Hz), low (0.07-0.15 Hz), and high (0.15-0.3 Hz) frequency ranges. Non contrast head CTs were reviewed by a neurologist and neuroradiologist blinded to the autoregulatory and angiographic data. Infarctions present within 6 weeks after SAH, which could not be attributed to instrumentation or peri-op strokes, were identified as DCI. Results: Patients with DCI had significantly higher Hunt and Hess (H&H) scores (median=4 vs 3, p Conclusion: Our preliminary data show that dynamic cerebral autoregulation, as measured by transfer function phase in the autoregulatory frequency range, is significantly impaired in the early days after SAH and that this early impairment is associated with the development of DCI. We are continuing to collect data on additional patients with SAH to confirm our findings in a larger cohort. Impairments in dynamic cerebral in the early days post SAH may be reliable predictors for identifying patients at higher risk of delayed cerebral ischemia.