Previous History Of Stroke Research Articles

Correlation of plasma N-acetyl-neuraminic acid level with TIMI risk stratification and clinical outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome

To explore the correlation of plasma N-acetyl-neuraminic acid level with Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score and clinical outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We consecutively enrolled 708 consecutive patients (401 male and 307 female, mean age 63.6±10.6 years) undergoing coronary angiography in our hospital between October, 2018 and July, 2019, including 597 patients with ACS and 111 without ACS (control group). The patients with ACS group were divided into high (n=104), moderate (n=425) and low (n=68) risk groups according to their TIMI risk scores. All the participants were examined for plasma Neu5Ac level using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and underwent coronary angiography with their Gensini scores calculated. The patients with ACS were followed up after discharge for a mean of 15 months for the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (Mace). Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors of Mace in these patients. Plasma Neu5Ac levels were significantly higher in ACS group than in the control group (P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that plasma Neu5Ac level could assist in the diagnosis of ACS (0.648 [0.597-0.699]) with a sensitivity of 39.2% and a specificity of 86.5% at the cutoff value of 288.50 ng/mL. In the ACS patients, plasma Neu5Ac level was significantly higher in the high-risk group than in the moderate-risk and low-risk groups (P < 0.05) and could assist in the diagnosis of a high risk (0.645 [0.588-0.703]) with a sensitivity of 42.3% and a specificity of 80.1% at the cutoff value of 327.50 ng/ mL. Plasma Neu5Ac was positively correlated with age, serum uric acid, creatinine, lipoprotein a, Ddimer, C-reactive protein, MB isoform of creatine kinase and Gensini score and negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein level. During the followup, 80 ACS patients experienced Mace, who had significantly higher plasma Neu5Ac level than those without Mace (n=517). Logistic regression analysis showed that plasma Neu5Ac level and a history of previous stroke were independent risk factors for the occurrence of Mace. Plasma Neu5Ac level can provide assistance in the diagnosis and risk stratification of ACS and is an independent risk factor for prognosis of ACS patients.

Differential Risk Factors and Outcomes of Ischemic Stroke due to Cervical Artery Dissection in Young Adults

Introduction: Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) is a major cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. Our understanding of the specific risk factors and clinical course of CeAD is still evolving. In this study, we evaluated the differential risk factors and outcomes of CeAD-related strokes among young adults. Methods: The study population consisted of young patients 15–45 years of age consecutively admitted with acute ischemic stroke to our comprehensive stroke center between January 1, 2010, and November 30, 2016. Diagnosis of CeAD was based on clinical and radiological findings. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess the risk factors and clinical outcomes associated with CeAD-related strokes. Results: Of the total 333 patients with acute ischemic stroke included in the study (mean ± SD age: 36.4 ± 7.1 years; women 50.8%), CeAD was identified in 79 (23.7%) patients. As compared to stroke due to other etiologies, patients with CeAD were younger in age, more likely to have history of migraine and recent neck manipulation and were less likely to have hypertension, diabetes, and previous history of stroke. Clinical outcomes of CeAD were comparable to strokes due to other etiologies. Within the CeAD group, higher initial stroke severity and history of tobacco use were associated with higher modified Rankin Scale score at follow-up. Conclusions: While history of migraine and neck manipulation are significantly associated with CeAD, most of the traditional vascular risk factors for stroke are less prevalent in this group when compared to strokes due to other etiologies. For CeAD-related strokes, higher initial stroke severity and history of tobacco use may be associated with higher stroke-related disability, but overall, patients with CeAD have similar outcomes as compared to strokes due to other etiologies.

Clinical Features, Risk Factors and Hospital Mortality of Acute Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. To prevent complications and permanent defects, early diagnosis, distinguishing the type and risk factor of stroke is crucial. Methodology: It was a hospital based cross sectional study, purposive sampling method was used, and a total of 469 stroke patients admitted into Department of Medicine, Rangpur medical college hospital, Bangladesh were included in this study. Results: In this study we have studied of 469 acute stroke patients. Among them 81% (380) were ischemic stroke patients and 19% (89) were hemorrhagic stroke. Overall male were more than female 308 (65.7%) vs 161(34.4%). The mean age for the ischemic stroke group was 64.1 ± 10.9 years, which was significantly higher than that of the hemorrhagic group (59.8 ± 9.60years) (P&lt;0.05). Acute hemorrhagic stroke patients presented with acute onset of focal neurological deficit 61.8%, headache 64%, vomiting 59.6%, alteration of consciousness 48.3% and convulsion 27%. On the other hand, acute ischemic stroke patient presented with alteration of consciousness 65.5%, acute onset of focal neurological deficit 39.5%, paralysis 41%, deficit after awakening 32.4% and aphasia 34.7%. Among the risk factors of stroke in acute ischemic stroke patients hypertension was 59.2%, diabetes mellitus 20%, history of previous stroke 16.1%, ischemic heart disease 14.5% and atrial fibrillation 10.3% were present, on the other hand in acute hemorrhagic stroke patients hypertension 76.4%, smoking 70.8% and diabetes mellitus 6.7% were present. 26.97% of the acute hemorrhagic stroke and 13.9% of the acute ischemic stroke patients died in hospital. Conclusion: Common presentation of stroke was acute onset of focal neurological deficit; headache and vomiting were more in hemorrhagic stroke patient; alteration of consciousness, paralysis was predominant in ischemic stroke patient.

Efficacy and Safety of Ticagrelor and Clopidogrel in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Aim: The efficacy and safety of ticagrelor and clopidogrel in patients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remain uncertain. Thus, this study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of ticagrelor and clopidogrel in patients with SCAD treated with PCI. Methods: A total of 9,379 patients with SCAD undergoing PCI who received dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) were consecutively enrolled in two groups, namely, ticagrelor ( n =1,081) and clopidogrel ( n =8,298) groups. Major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and bleeding events according to ticagrelor or clopidogrel use were compared. Results: After propensity matching ( n =1,081 in each group), ticagrelor was associated with fewer MACCEs compared with clopidogrel (3.6% vs. 5.7%, hazard ratio [HR]=0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41–0.93, p =0.019), and the difference between ticagrelor and clopidogrel for bleeding events was nonsignificant (4.0% vs. 3.2%, HR=1.24, 95% CI 0.79-1.93, p =0.356). On the other hand, the difference between ticagrelor and clopidogrel for net adverse clinical events was significant (4.1% vs. 6.0%, HR=0.67, 95% CI 0.46–0.98, p =0.039). In a multivariate analysis, the use of ticagrelor, number of stents, previous history of diabetes, previous history of smoking, and ACC/AHA type B2 or C lesions were considered independent predictors of MACCEs, while radial artery access, previous history of stroke, and weight ＜60kg were independent predictors of bleeding events. Conclusions Ticagrelor was associated with a lower incidence of MACCEs without an increased risk of bleeding events in patients with SCAD receiving PCI.

Asymmetrical cortical vein sign predicts early neurological deterioration in acute ischemic stroke patients with severe intracranial arterial stenosis or occlusion

BackgroundSusceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) provides an approximate assessment of tissue perfusion and shows prominent hypointense cortical veins in the ischemic territory because of the increased concentration of deoxyhemoglobin. We aimed to evaluate whether asymmetrical prominent cortical vein sign (APCVS) on SWI can predict early neurological deterioration (END) in acute ischemic stroke patients with severe intracranial arterial stenosis or occlusion (SIASO).MethodsOne hundred and nine acute ischemic stroke patients with SIASO who underwent SWI were retrospectively recruited. END was defined as an increase in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≧2 points despite standard treatment in the first 72 h after admission. The APCVS was defined as more and/or large vessels with greater signal loss than those in the opposite hemisphere on SWI.ResultsThirty out of the 109 (27.5%) patients developed END. Sixty (55.0%) patients presented with APCVS on SWI. APCVS occurred in 24 (80%) patients with END, whereas it only occurred in 36 (45.6%) patients without END (P = 0.001). Patients with APCVS were more likely to have END (40.0%, vs. 12.2%, P = 0.001) than those without END. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that APCVS (OR = 4.349, 95% C.I. = 1.580–11.970, P = 0.004) was a significant predictor of END in acute ischemic stroke patients with SIASO, adjusted for previous stroke history and acute infarct volume.ConclusionsIn acute ischemic stroke patients with SIASO, the APCVS might be a useful neuroimaging marker for predicting END, which suggests the importance of evaluation of perfusion status.

Modeling Risk Factors for Total Paralysis of Stroke Patients in RSUD Dr. R. Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro Using Binary Logistic Regression

One of the causes of death in Bojonegoro Regency is stroke. Stroke is a nervous system function disorder that occurs suddenly and is caused by circulatory disorders of the brain. From 2015 to March 2018, stroke has always been ranked first as the type of disease that most patients suffer in RSUD Dr. R. Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro. Stroke can cause sufferers to experience limited ability to carry out daily activities (eating, dressing, defecating, bathing, and moving) because there are limbs that are paralyzed so it is difficult to move. Therefore, this study aims to describe the characteristics of stroke patients and to analyze the risk factors that cause stroke patients get totally paralyzed using binary logistic regression. The data used in the form of secondary data obtained from the results of medical records of stroke patients who were hospitalized at RSUD Dr. R. Sosodoro Djatikoesoemo Bojonegoro from January to March 2018. Based on the results of the analysis showed that the majority of stroke patients are over 55 years old and males also the risk factors that cause stroke patients geet totally paralyzed are the type of stroke and previous history of stroke.

Impact of pre-stroke dependency on outcome after endovascular therapy in acute ischemic stroke

Background and purposeCurrent demographic changes indicate that more people will be care-dependent due to increasing life expectancy. Little is known about impact of preexisting dependency on stroke outcome after endovascular treatment (EVT).MethodsWe compared prospectively collected baseline and outcome data of previously dependent vs. independent stroke patients (prestroke modified Rankin Scale score of 3–5 vs. 0–2) treated with EVT. Outcome measures were favorable 3-month outcome (mRS ≤ 3 for previously dependent and mRS ≤ 2 for independent patients, respectively), death and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).ResultsAmong 1247 patients, 84 (6.7%) were dependent before stroke. They were older (81 vs. 72 years of age), more often female (61.9% vs. 46%), had a higher stroke severity at baseline (NIHSS 18 vs. 15 points), more often history of previous stroke (32.9% vs. 9.1%) and more vascular risk factors than independent patients. Favorable outcome and mortality were to the disadvantage of independent patients (26.2% vs. 44.4% and 46.4% vs. 25.5%, respectively), whereas sICH was comparable in both cohorts (4.9% vs. 5%). However, preexisting dependency was not associated with clinical outcome and mortality after adjusting for outcome predictors (OR 1.076, 95% CI 0.612–1.891; p = 0.799 and OR 1.267, 95% CI 0.758–2.119; p = 0.367, respectively).ConclusionOur study underscores the need for careful selection of care-dependent stroke patients when considering EVT, given a less favorable outcome observed in this cohort. Nonetheless, EVT should not systematically be withheld in patients with preexisting disability, since prior dependency does not significantly influence outcome.

Prevalence of Acute Coronary Syndrome and Various Risk Factors in Acute Stroke Patients.

BackgroundStroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Both diseases share many risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and smoking. Patients who experience acute coronary syndrome are at heightened risk of recurrent ischemic events such as ischemic strokes, one of the most feared cardiovascular events because of the risk of long-term disability. We tried to estimate the prevalence of underlying ACS among patients with acute stroke.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was done at the CPE Institute of Cardiology, Pakistan, and Nishtar Medical University and Hospital, Pakistan. A total of 160 acute stroke cases were selected by consecutive sampling technique and questionnaire forms were filled. Detailed history, investigations, and physical examinations were done. The primary outcome was the prevalence of ACS and secondary outcomes were the prevalence of hypertension, smoking, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and previous history of stroke in stroke patients.ResultsMost of the patients that presented to us were above 50 years of age with the mean age of 62 years (SD = 9.23 years). Male predominance was seen with a total of 115 (72%) cases. Out of 160 patients, 91 (57%, p < 0.05) had underlying ACS, with 45 cases (49%) with unstable angina, 20 (22%) with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and 26 (29%) with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Prevalence of risk factors in 160 cases were, hypertension (101, 63%), lack of exercise (91, 57%), smoking (70, 44%), diabetes mellitus (61, 38%), dyslipidemia (50, 31%). All these results were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Prevalence of obesity (35, 22%) and previous stroke history (19, 12%) was statistically insignificant (p > 0.05).ConclusionAcute coronary syndrome is still frequently present in patients with acute stroke. The need of the hour is to manage ACS efficiently so that its deadly complications such as stroke can be prevented.

Increased mortality in patients with secondary diagnosis of atrial fibrillation: Report from Chinese AF registry.

BackgroundThe relationship between mortality and the primary diagnosis in AF patients is poorly recognized. The purpose of the study is to compare the differences on mortality in patients with a primary or secondary diagnosis of AF and to identify risk factors amenable to treatment.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study using data from the Chinese AF registry. For admitted patients, a follow‐up was completed to obtain the outcomes during 1 year.ResultsA total of 2015 patients with confirmed AF were included. AF was the primary diagnosis in 40.9% (n = 825) of them. 78.9% (n = 939) of the secondary AF diagnosis patients and 55.5% (n = 458) of the primary AF diagnosis patients were sustained AF. Compared with primary AF diagnosis group, the secondary AF diagnosis group was older with more comorbidities. At 1 year, the unadjusted mortality was much higher in the secondary AF diagnosis groups compared with the primary AF diagnosis groups. In Cox regression analysis with adjustment for confounding factors, patients with secondary AF diagnosis were associated with an increased mortality (relative risk 1.723; 95% CI: 1.283 to 2.315, p < .001). On multivariate analysis, age ≥ 75, LVSD, COPD, and diabetes were independent predictors of mortality in patients with primary AF diagnosis, while for the secondary AF diagnosis group, the risk factors were age ≥ 75, heart failure, and previous history of stroke.ConclusionsPatients presenting to ED with secondary diagnosis of AF were suffering from higher mortality risks compared with primary AF diagnosis patients. Physicians should distinguish these two groups in clinical practice.

Risk factors for agitation and hyperactive delirium in adult postcardiotomy patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: an observational study.

Agitation and delirium in critically ill patients after cardiac surgery carry poor in-hospital prognosis. Identifying risk factors may promote its prevention and management. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the incidence of agitation and hyperactive delirium in postcardiotomy patients during the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support and to identify the risk factors for its development. This single center, retrospective study was conducted at Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University. Data were extracted from the prospective institutional registry database of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to predict risk factors. A total of 170 consecutive adult patients underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2017. Ninety-four patients were included in the final analysis. The incidence of agitation and hyperactive delirium was 35% in our population of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation-supported postcardiotomy patients. Agitation and delirium usually occurred within the first 3 days of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Multivariable analysis showed that history of previous stroke (without preoperative cognitive dysfunction; odds ratio, 4.425, 95% confidence interval: 1.171-16.716; p = 0.028) and mean arterial pressure reduction (before extracorporeal membrane oxygenation initiation) ⩾ 49 mmHg (odds ratio, 7.570, 95% confidence interval: 2.366-24.219, p = 0.001) were independent risk factors for agitation and hyperactive delirium during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of agitation and hyperactive delirium was 0.704 (95% confidence interval 0.589-0.820, p = 0.001). There was more severe arrhythmia in the agitation patients. Our results suggest that the prevalence of agitation and hyperactive delirium in postcardiotomy patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support is high. In addition, previous stroke and severe mean arterial pressure reduction before extracorporeal membrane oxygenation initiation is predictive of agitation and hyperactive delirium.

Mesenteroaxial gastric volvulus: CT findings

A 65-year-old female patient presented with complaints of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and inability to perform defecation. The patient complained of abdominal pain and constipation for several days, and these symptoms were exacerbated, nausea and vomiting were added to these complaints on the day of admission. Physical examination revealed that abdominal guarding and tenderness, mainly located in the epigastric region. The patient had a history of previous total knee replacement surgery and ischemic stroke but had no history of trauma or abdominal surgery.

The predictive value of mean platelet volume, neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and platelet lymphocyte ratio in acute middle cerebral artery infarction patients

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of mean platelet volume (MPV), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio(PLR) in patients with acute middle cerebral artery (MCA)branch infarction. Method: This examination was performed on the files of 50 patients followed up at the Anesthesia and Reanimation ICU of Onsekiz Mart University Hospital between April 2017 and September 2019 for acute occlusion in the MCA branch, with no previous history of an ischemic stroke. These patients were assessed with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the Modified Rankin Score (mRS). The ratios of the neutrophil and platelet countsto the lymphocyte count (NLR and PLR ratios) within the first hour of the stroke and MPV were compared to a control group. Results: The study included 50 patients with the acute ischemia of the MCA branch, of which 28 (56%) were female. The control group consisted of 50 healthy people, and 24 (48%) of these were female. The mean NIHSS score of the patients was 11.4 ± 2.6, and their mean mRS was 2.5 ± 1.5. Conclusions: In our study with patients who had acute middle cerebral artery infarction, we found that the NLR, PLR, and MPV levels within the first hour of stroke were higher in the patient group in comparison to the control group ona statistically significant level. However, multicenter studies with larger subject groups are needed for the use of hematological parameters as biomarkers in an ischemic stroke

Dementia risk among post-menopausal women treated with endocrine therapy for early-stage breast cancer in Ontario, Canada.

521 Background: The association between anti-estrogen therapy and risk of dementia remains controversial. We performed a population-based real-world study investigating the association between endocrine therapy use and dementia. Methods: We used health administrative data collected from post-menopausal women (aged ≥66 years) who were diagnosed with breast cancer and started on adjuvant endocrine therapy from 2005-2012. Patients were classified by use of either an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen and followed to measure an unadjusted cumulative incidence of developing dementia. A multivariable analysis adjusting for age, income quintile, medical comorbidities, and duration of endocrine therapy was completed using a Cox-proportional hazards model. Results: We identified 12,077 patients of whom 73% were treated with an aromatase inhibitor and 27% with tamoxifen. The median age was 73 years (IQR 69-78), 64% of patients were treated with lumpectomy, and 19% received adjuvant chemotherapy. The unadjusted event rate for developing dementia was Hazard Ratio (HR)= 0.70 (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.63-0.78, p-value&lt;0.0001) among patients receiving an aromatase inhibitor versus tamoxifen and the 5-year dementia incidence rate was 7.4% versus 9.2% respectively. Our multivariable analysis showed a significant decrease in the rate of dementia in patients treated with an aromatase inhibitor compared to tamoxifen (HR=0.88, 95% CI 0.78-0.98, p-value=0.02) with a median of 5.9 years of follow-up. Factors associated with the development of dementia included older age, previous history of ischemic heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and stroke. Duration of endocrine therapy and previous use of adjuvant chemotherapy were not associated with dementia in our study. Conclusions: This investigation indicates that use of aromatase inhibitors compared to tamoxifen is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia among post-menopausal breast cancer patients. Further prospective studies investigating the neurocognitive effects of endocrine therapy are warranted.

Safety and Efficacy of Prasugrel in Elderly/Low Body Weight Japanese Patients with Ischemic Stroke: Randomized PRASTRO-II

Introduction: The safety of prasugrel in elderly and/or low body weight Japanese patients with ischemic stroke who have a relatively high bleeding risk with antiplatelet therapy remains unknown. Objective: We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of long-term prasugrel monotherapy for stroke prevention compared with clopidogrel in elderly and/or low body weight Japanese patients with non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, comparative, phase III study, elderly (age ≥75 years) and/or low body weight (≤50 kg) Japanese patients with a previous history of non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke were assigned to a prasugrel 3.75 mg (PRA3.75) group, a prasugrel 2.5 mg (PRA2.5) group, or a clopidogrel 50 mg (CLO50) group and followed up for 48 weeks. The primary safety endpoint was the combined incidence of primary safety events, defined as life-threatening, major, and other clinically relevant bleeding. The efficacy endpoint was a composite of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and death from other vascular causes. Results: A total of 654 patients (age 76.4 ± 7.3 years, body weight 55.6 ± 9.3 kg, women 43.9%) from 74 medical institutions within Japan were enrolled. The combined incidence (95% CI) of primary safety events was 4.2% (1.9–7.8%), 1.9% (0.5–4.7%), and 3.6% (1.6–6.9%) in the PRA3.75 group (n = 216), PRA2.5 group (n = 215), and CLO50 group (n = 223), respectively (hazard ratios [HR] PRA3.75/CLO50, 1.13 [0.44–2.93]; PRA2.5/CLO50, 0.51 [0.15–1.69]). The incidences of bleeding leading to treatment discontinuation (95% CI) were 2.3% (0.8–5.3%), 0.9% (0.1–3.3%), and 2.2% (0.7–5.2%) in the PRA3.75, PRA2.5, and CLO50 groups, respectively (HRs PRA3.75/CLO50, 1.01 [0.29–3.48]; PRA2.5/CLO50, 0.41 [0.08–2.12]). There was no significant difference in all bleeding events between groups. The incidence of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and death from other vascular causes was lower, but not significantly so, in patients treated with prasugrel than in patients treated with clopidogrel: PRA3.75, 0.0% (0/216); PRA2.5, 3.3% (7/215); and CLO50, 3.6% (8/223; HRs PRA3.75/CLO50, 0.00 [0.00–0.00]; PRA2.5/CLO50, 0.90 [0.32–2.47]). Conclusions: Elderly and/or low body weight ­Japanese patients with previous non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke who received PRA3.75 showed similar results in terms of primary safety endpoint, and a numerically lower incidence of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and death from other vascular causes, compared with those who received CLO50.

Mortality and recurrent vascular events after first incident stroke: a 9-year community-based study of 0·5 million Chinese adults

SummaryBackgroundStroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Despite considerable improvements in diagnosis and treatment, little is known about the short-term and long-term prognosis after a first stroke in low-income and middle-income countries, including China. We aimed to assess the short-term and long-term risk of recurrent stroke and mortality after a first stroke for each of the major pathological stroke types.MethodsThis population-based cohort study included adults aged 35–74 years without disability who were recruited to the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB). A baseline survey was conducted in ten geographical areas (five urban, five rural) in China, and participants had clinical measurements recorded. Participants were followed up by monitoring death registries and by electronic linkage to health registries and health insurance claims databases, with follow-up until Jan 1, 2017. Participants were excluded from analyses if they had a previous history of stroke, transient ischaemic attack, or ischaemic heart disease at baseline. All incidences of fatal and non-fatal stroke during the study period were recorded by type (ischaemic stroke, intracerebral haemorrhage, subarachnoid haemorrhage, and unspecified type). Primary outcome measures were 28-day mortality, recurrent stroke, major vascular events (recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction, or vascular death), vascular mortality, and all-cause mortality.FindingsOf 512 715 individuals in the CKB, 489 586 participants without previous ischaemic heart disease and stroke at recruitment were included, of whom 45 732 (42 073 [92%] confirmed by brain imaging) had a stroke during the study period. The mean age was 59·3 years (SD 9·8) for participants who had a stroke (54% women) and 50·8 years (10·3) for participants with no stroke (60% women). 36 588 (80%) of the incident cases of stroke were ischaemic stroke, 7440 (16%) were intracerebral haemorrhage, 702 (2%) were subarachnoid haemorrhage, and 1002 (2%) were an unspecified stroke type. 28-day mortality was 3% (95% CI 3–4) for ischaemic stroke, 47% (46–48)for intracerebral haemorrhage, 19% (17–22; 52% for rural areas and 32% for urban areas) subarachnoid haemorrhage, and 24% (22–27) for unspecified stroke. Among participants who survived stroke at 28 days, 41% (41–42) had recurrent stroke at 5 years (ischaemic stroke 41% [41–42], intracerebral haemorrhage 44% [42–46], subarachnoid haemorrhage 22% [18–27], unspecified stroke type 40% [35–44]) and mortality at 5 years was 17% ([17–18] ischaemic stroke 16% [15–16], intracerebral haemorrhage 28% [26–29], subarachnoid haemorrhage 16% [12–20], unspecified stroke type 15% [12–19]). After a first ischaemic stroke, 91% of recurrent strokes were also ischaemic stroke; after an intracerebral haemorrhage, 56% of recurrent strokes were intracerebral haemorrhage, and 41% of recurrent strokes were ischaemic stroke.InterpretationAfter a first stroke, the risk of recurrence or death within 5 years was high among this population of Chinese adults. Urgent improvements to secondary prevention of stroke in China are needed to reduce these risks.FundingWellcome Trust, Medical Research Council, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Kadoorie Charitable Foundation, Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, National Natural Science Foundation of China.Copyright© 2020 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an Open Access article under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Left atrial thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation and under oral anticoagulant therapy; 3-D transesophageal echocardiographic study.

Ischemic stroke is the major complication of atrial fibrillation (AF) and only proven preventive therapy is oral anticoagulant therapy (OAC). Previous studies reported the presence of thrombus in the left atrium (LA) or left atrial appendage (LAA) despite anticoagulant therapy. We aim to investigate the predictors of LA/LAA thrombus in patients under OAC therapy and long-term clinical impact of thrombus. We prospectively enrolled consecutive patients with permanent AF under OAC therapy. Patients baseline characteristics were recorded. Transesophageal echocardiographic study performed after complete transthoracic echocardiographic study. 3-D evaluation of LAA was made using 3-D zoom mode and thrombus was defined when echo reflecting, mobile mass detected. Patients clinical outcomes were decided according to hospital records or via phone calls. Among 184 patients, 28 LAT were detected. Mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was significantly higher in patients with LAT in comparison to patients without LAT. CHA2DS2-VASc score (p: 0.001), left atrial volume (p: 0.001), left atrial flow velocity (p: 0.006) and left ventricular ejection fraction (p: 0.014) were independently associated with LAT. Among the parameters in CHA2DS2-VASc score, the previous history of stroke and age were independently related to LAT. After 12months of follow-up, patients with LAT had more ischemic stroke than patients without LAT (7.1% vs 4.4%, p: 0.001 respectively). Although oral anticoagulation is the default treatment strategy for prevention of LAT and thromboembolism in patients with non-valvular AF, LAT still can be detected especially in patients with a high CHA2DS2-VASc score. Furthermore, the presence of LAT is significantly associated with future ischemic stroke.

Relationship between Levels of Pre-Stroke Physical Activity and Post-Stroke Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor I.

Physical activity (PA) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) have beneficial effects for patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke (stroke). However, the relationship between the levels of PA and IGF-I after stroke has not been explored in detail. We investigated the pre-stroke PA level in relation to the post-stroke serum IGF-I (s-IGF-I) level, at baseline and at 3 months after the index stroke, and calculated the change that occurred between these two time-points (ΔIGF-I). Patients (N = 380; 63.4% males; mean age, 54.7 years) with data on 1-year leisure-time pre-stroke PA and post-stroke s-IGF-I levels were included from the Sahlgrenska Academy Study on Ischemic Stroke (SAHLSIS). Stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Pre-stroke, leisure-time PA was self-reported as PA1–4, with PA1 representing sedentary and PA2–4 indicating progressively higher PA levels. Associations between s-IGF-I and PA were evaluated by multiple linear regressions with PA1 as the reference and adjustments being made for sex, age, history of previous stroke or myocardial infarctions, cardiovascular risk factors, and stroke severity. PA correlated with baseline s-IGF-I and ΔIGF-I, but not with the 3-month s-IGF-I. In the linear regressions, there were corresponding associations that remained as a tendency (baseline s-IGF-I, p = 0.06) or as a significant effect (ΔIGF-I, p = 0.03) after all the adjustments. Specifically, for each unit of PA, ΔIGF-I increased by 9.7 (95% CI 1,1−18.4) ng/mL after full adjustment. This supports the notion that pre-stroke PA is independently related to ΔIGF-I.

Abstract P410: Association of Sarcopenia, Low Muscle Mass and Low Muscle Strength With Coronary Artery Calcium Scores

Introduction: Low muscle mass and low muscle strength, the defining components of sarcopenia, are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease and mortality. However, little is known about the association of sarcopenia with markers of subclinical atherosclerosis, such as coronary artery calcium (CAC). We assessed the hypothesis that sarcopenia and its defining components are associated with higher CAC scores in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional analysis we included 2700 participants from the São Paulo site of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health second wave, aged ≥ 50 years, who were submitted to CAC assessment, with no previous history of coronary artery disease and stroke, and with complete data on exposure, outcome and covariates. CAC was measured by noncontrast computed tomography scans and the Agatston method was adopted to calculate CAC scores. Muscle mass was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis and muscle strength by handgrip strength. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health criteria. The association of sarcopenia and its defining components with CAC score &gt; 0 or &gt; 100 was investigated with logistic regression. We also investigated the association of continuous appendicular lean mass standardized by body mass index and handgrip strength with CAC score &gt; 0 and &gt; 100. Possible confounders included sociodemographic characteristics, clinical conditions, lifestyle and laboratory parameters. Results: Sarcopenia was found in 1% (23 out of 2700) of participants, 23% (609 out of 2700) with low muscle mass and 2% (40 out of 2700) with low muscle strength. CAC &gt; 0 and CAC &gt; 100 were found in 35% (952 out of 2700) and 13% (357 out of 2700) of participants, respectively. After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics, clinical conditions, lifestyle and laboratory parameters, low muscle mass was associated with CAC &gt; 100 (OR = 1.37, 95%CI 1.03-1.80), but not with CAC &gt; 0 (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.94-1.46). Sarcopenia and low muscle strength were not associated with CAC scores. Additionally, continuous appendicular leans mass standardized by body mass index was associated with lower odds of CAC &gt; 100 (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.05-0.50), although it was not associated with CAC &gt; 0. Finally, continuous handgrip strength was not associated with CAC scores. Conclusion: In conclusion, low muscle mass is associated with higher odds of CAC score &gt; 100 in middle-aged and older adults.

The study of Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) as a Potential Risk Factor for Macrovascular Complications (Ischemic Heart Disease and Cerebrovascular Stroke) in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has reached global epidemic proportions, with more than 382 million people affected according to 2013 estimate. By 2035, its prevalence is expected to reach 471 million, meaning that 10% of the world’s population will have diabetes. Patients with diabetes often suffer from metabolic abnormalities, poor glycemic control, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation. These conditions trigger vascular dysfunction, which predisposes them to atherothrombosis Objective The present study aimed to study the mean platelet volume (MPV) as a potential risk factor for ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular stroke in type 2 diabetes. Methods The study was conducted on 150 subjects there ages ranged from 40 to 60 years old. They were divided into 4 groups: Group 1: included30 type 2 diabetic overweight or obese patients without previous history of myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular stroke. Then, they were subdivided into 2 subgroups: 1a) 15 diabetic non hypertensive patients. 1b) 15 diabetic hypertensive patients. Group 2: included A) 30 type 2 diabetic overweight or obese patients with recent cerebrovascular stroke. Then, they were subdivided into 2 subgroups: 2Aa) 15 diabetic non hypertensive patients. 2Ab) 15 diabetic hypertensive patients. B) 30 type 2 diabetic overweight or obese patients with acute myocardial infarction. Then, they were subdivided into 2 subgroups: 2Ba) 15 diabetic non hypertensive patients. 2Bb) 15 diabetic hypertensive patients. Group 3: 30 overweight or obese non-diabetic patients with acute myocardial infarction or recent cerebrovascular stroke. Then, they were subdivided into 3a) 15 patients with acute myocardial infarction. 3b) 15 patients with recent cerebrovascular stroke. Group 4: 30 Healthy control with matching age and sex and were subdivided into 2 subgroups: Control a) 15 lean subjects. Control b) 15 overweight or obese subjects. All subjects in this study were subjected to Full medical history taking. Thorough clinical examination (including weight, height, BMI, blood pressure). The following laboratory investigations were done: Fasting blood glucose, Two hour post prandial, HbA1c, Fasting insulin (for HOMA IR), Lipid profile (Total cholesterol-LDL-HDL-Triglycerides), Mean platelet volume and Liver and kidney function test. The following radiological investigation were done: Carotid ultrasonography for estimation of intima-media thickness and abdominal ultrasonography. Results As regards MPV, there was a high statistical significant difference between the studied groups (p-value&amp;lt;0.01), being the highest in group II (mean 11.93 ± 0.37 fl) followed by group III (10.77±1.69 fl), group I (10.67±1.98 fl) and group IV (8.83±0.98 fl). On comparing between every other groups there was a high statistical significant difference between group (I) &amp; (II) being higher in group II, (I) &amp; (IV) being higher in group I, (II) &amp; (III) being higher in group II, (II) &amp; (IV) being higher in group II and (III) &amp; (IV) being higher in group III (P value&amp;lt;0.01). However, there was a non-statistical significant difference between group (I) &amp; (III) regarding the MPV (P value&amp;gt;0.05). On comparing between hypertensive and non-hypertensive patients in each group as regard MPV, there were non-significant statistical difference. Conclusion MPV was higher in type 2 diabetic patients than healthy control. Moreover, MPV was significantly higher in type 2 diabetic patients with macrovascular complications. There was no significant difference between hypertensive and non hypertensive patients as regard MPV. There was no significant difference between obese and lean subjects as regard MPV. There was a positive significant correlation between MPV and markers of glycemic control in T2DM.

Risk factors for death by acute ischaemic stroke in patients from West-Pomerania, Poland.

In Poland, it is widely believed that the outlook for ischaemic stroke patients is gradually improving due to the development of a network of stroke wards and other dedicated hospital units throughout the country. However, a study by Shah et al., reporting a significant increase in mortality from ischaemic stroke in several European countries including Poland, contradicts this belief. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for death in patients with recent ischaemic stroke among a population of patients from Western Pomerania, a region in north-western Poland. This retrospective study involved 2,374 patients with recent ischaemic stroke. Mortality was defined as death within 30 days of admission to hospital. Patients who died in hospital during this period were defined as deceased, while those who survived beyond this time were classified as alive. We found that compared to ischaemic stroke patients who survived, the group of ischaemic stroke patients who died included a higher number of patients who smoked cigarettes (OR = 6.08 in univariable model; OR = 6.22 in adjusted model), had hypertension (OR = 2.57; OR = 1.85), had a history of previous stroke (OR = 2.63; OR = 2.14), had coronary heart disease (OR = 1.78; OR=1.36), and were older (OR = 1.06; OR = 1.05). For all these factors, p-value was lower than 0.001. Females had a higher risk of death (OR = 1.48, p < 0.001; OR = 1.35, p = 0.01). For dyslipidemia, only univariable model was statistically significant (OR = 1.38, p < 0.001). Older age, female sex, dyslipidemia, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and smoking are not only recognised risk factors for ischaemic stroke, but also risk factors associated with an unfavourable prognosis following stroke.