Valuation of knowledge, attitude, practices of tuberculosis among the health care workers from Islamabad Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) as a foremost infectious disease adds massive burden to morbidity and mortality rate, despite of well-structured TB control programs around the globe. Inappropriate health care management system and poor implementation on standard in relevance to TB, remain some reasons causative to TB prevalence and its rising antimicrobial resistance. Health Care Workers (HCWs) laboring as a part of TB control system, are the vital warriors in achieving the goals of TB End Strategy by 2035. Their performance is influenced by their knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) toward this infectious disease. This study aimed to signify the role of KAP score of health care Workers in the better control and prevention of TB in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), Pakistan. METHODS: A cross-sectional study on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice study of Tuberculosis (TB) among health care Workers, was done in ICT, which is the capital of Pakistan. The KAP of TB was collected for the 306 Health Care Workers from all the Islamabad TB referring health facilities which refer the TB patients for testing to the National Reference Laboratory, Islamabad Pakistan. Eligible health care workers were requested to respond on KAP questionnaire after informed consent. KAP questionnaire comprised of knowledge, attitude, and practices section including demographic information. All the data was analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics 21. One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to calculate KAP mean score against different variables. On the significant data sets of ANOVA output, Tukey's Multiple Comparison Test was applied for pairwise comparison. Pearson correlation coefficient was utilized to explore the association between two qualitative variables. The non-parametric tests were applied to evaluate difference of KAP score in relation to demographic covariates individually. RESULTS: From June to July 2023, we conducted TB KAP study among Health Care Workers of ICT, Pakistan. The average age was 33 years (range 26-30 years). Majority of the recruited subjects were not being trained for dealing with TB infection. The results demonstrated that Health Care Workers working were lacking their knowledge about mode of TB transmission, best diagnostic technique, and contraction of TB infections. The mean knowledge, attitude and practices mean scores were 15.05 (SD = 3.96), 83.68 (SD = 15.74) and 6.31 (SD = 2.21), respectively. Mean knowledge score of Health Care Workers were significantly related to their educational level and occupation while no significant association was declared with working experience as TB staff. Pearson coefficient of attitude score with knowledge of Health Care Workers was of weak level (0.28). Practice mean score was correlated to knowledge mean score at a moderate level (r = 0.40). On the other hand, practice score was r = 0.29 with attitude mean score had shown weak level correlation. A number of demographic factors were strongly linked to each of the mean score of knowledge, attitude, and practices. CONCLUSION: These findings highlighted the significant involvement of education, profession, and professional trainings in the better knowledge, attitude, and practices of the TB related health care Workers. For a better management system of infectious diseases like TB, a well-trained and professionally competent staff of Health Care Workers is important so as to achieve the goal of TB-End strategy by 2035 from Pakistan, which is the 5th highest burden country for TB.

Circular RNAs in tuberculosis and lung cancer.

This review signifies the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in tuberculosis (TB) and lung cancer (LC), focusing on pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. CircRNAs, a newly discovered type of non-coding RNA, have emerged as key regulators of gene expression and promising biomarkers in various bodily fluids due to their stability. The current review discusses circRNA biogenesis, highlighting their RNase-R resistance due to their loop forming structure, making them effective biomarkers. It details their roles in gene regulation, including splicing, transcription control, and miRNA interactions, and their impact on cellular processes and diseases. For LC, the review identifies circRNA dysregulation affecting cell growth, motility, and survival, and their potential as therapeutic targets and biomarkers. In TB, it addresses circRNAs' influence on host anti-TB immune responses, proposing their use as early diagnostic markers. The paper also explores the interplay between TB and LC, emphasizing circRNAs as dual biosignatures, and the necessity for differential diagnosis. It concludes that no single circRNA biomarker is universally applicable for both TB and LC. Ultimately, the review highlights the pivotal role of circRNAs in TB and LC, encouraging further research in biomarker identification and therapeutic development concomitant for both diseases.

Unveiling the Genetic Tapestry: Exploring Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 Anastomosis Groups in Potato Crops across Borders.

The current study was carried out to screen 10 isolates (ARS-01-ARS-10) of Rhizoctonia. solani from potato tubers cv. Kuroda, which were collected from various potato fields in Multan, Pakistan. The isolates were found to be morphologically identical, as the hyphae exhibit the production of branches at right angles and acute angles often accompanied by septum near the emerging branches. Anastomosis grouping showed that these isolates belonged to AG-3. A pathogenicity test was performed against the susceptible Kuroda variety and among the isolates, ARS-05 exhibited the highest mean severity score of approximately 5.43, followed by ARS-09, which showed a mean severity score of about 3.67, indicating a moderate level of severity. On the lower end of the severity scale, isolates ARS-06 and ARS-07 displayed mean severity scores of approximately 0.53 and 0.57, respectively, suggesting minimal symptom severity. These mean severity scores offer insights into the varying degrees of symptom expression among the different isolates of R. solani under examination. PCoA indicates that the severe isolate causing black scurf on the Kuroda variety was AG-3. A comprehensive analysis of the distribution, genetic variability, and phylogenetic relationships of R. solani anastomosis groups (AGs) related to potato crops across diverse geographic regions was also performed to examine AG prevalence in various countries. AG-3 was identified as the most widespread group, prevalent in Sweden, China, and the USA. AG-5 showed prominence in Sweden and the USA, while AG-2-1 exhibited prevalence in China and Japan. The phylogenetic analysis unveiled two different clades: Clade I comprising AG-3 and Clade II encompassing AG-2, AG-4, and AG-5, further subdivided into three subclades. Although AGs clustered together regardless of origin, their genetic diversity revealed complex evolutionary patterns. The findings pave the way for region-specific disease management strategies to combat R. solani's impact on potato crops.

Blood Pressure Trajectories and Outcomes After Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke.

BACKGROUND: Data on systolic blood pressure (SBP) trajectories in the first 24 hours after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in acute ischemic stroke are limited. We sought to identify these trajectories and their relationship to outcomes. METHODS: We combined individual-level data from 5 studies of patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent EVT and had individual blood pressure values after the end of the procedure. We used group-based trajectory analysis to identify the number and shape of SBP trajectories post-EVT. We used mixed effects regression models to identify associations between trajectory groups and outcomes adjusting for potential confounders and reported the respective adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and common odds ratios. RESULTS: There were 2640 total patients with acute ischemic stroke included in the analysis. The most parsimonious model identified 4 distinct SBP trajectories, that is, general directional patterns after repeated SBP measurements: high, moderate-high, moderate, and low. Patients in the higher blood pressure trajectory groups were older, had a higher prevalence of vascular risk factors, presented with more severe stroke syndromes, and were less likely to achieve successful recanalization after the EVT. In the adjusted analyses, only patients in the high-SBP trajectory were found to have significantly higher odds of early neurological deterioration (aOR, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.20-2.82]), intracranial hemorrhage (aOR, 1.84 [95% CI, 1.31-2.59]), mortality (aOR, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.21-2.53), death or disability (aOR, 1.63 [95% CI, 1.15-2.31]), and worse functional outcomes (adjusted common odds ratio,1.92 [95% CI, 1.47-2.50]). CONCLUSIONS: Patients follow distinct SBP trajectories in the first 24 hours after an EVT. Persistently elevated SBP after the procedure is associated with unfavorable short-term and long-term outcomes.

Association between blood pressure variability and outcomes after endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke: An individual patient data meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Data on the association between blood pressure variability (BPV) after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and outcomes are limited. We sought to identify whether BPV within the first 24 hours post EVT was associated with key stroke outcomes. METHODS: We combined individual patient-data from five studies among AIS-patients who underwent EVT, that provided individual BP measurements after the end of the procedure. BPV was estimated as either systolic-BP (SBP) standard deviation (SD) or coefficient of variation (CV) over 24 h post-EVT. We used a logistic mixed-effects model to estimate the association [expressed as adjusted odds ratios (aOR)] between tertiles of BPV and outcomes of 90-day mortality, 90-day death or disability [modified Rankin Scale-score (mRS) > 2], 90-day functional impairment (⩾1-point increase across all mRS-scores), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), adjusting for age, sex, stroke severity, co-morbidities, pretreatment with intravenous thrombolysis, successful recanalization, and mean SBP and diastolic-BP levels within the first 24 hours post EVT. RESULTS: There were 2640 AIS-patients included in the analysis. The highest tertile of SBP-SD was associated with higher 90-day mortality (aOR:1.44;95% CI:1.08-1.92), 90-day death or disability (aOR:1.49;95% CI:1.18-1.89), and 90-day functional impairment (adjusted common OR:1.42;95% CI:1.18-1.72), but not with sICH (aOR:1.22;95% CI:0.76-1.98). Similarly, the highest tertile of SBP-CV was associated with higher 90-day mortality (aOR:1.33;95% CI:1.01-1.74), 90-day death or disability (aOR:1.50;95% CI:1.19-1.89), and 90-day functional impairment (adjusted common OR:1.38;95% CI:1.15-1.65), but not with sICH (aOR:1.33;95% CI:0.83-2.14). CONCLUSIONS: BPV after EVT appears to be associated with higher mortality and disability, independently of mean BP levels within the first 24 h post EVT. BPV in the first 24 h may be a novel target to improve outcomes after EVT for AIS.

Unlocking the secrets of soil microbes: How decades-long contamination and heavy metals accumulation from sewage water and industrial effluents shape soil biological health.

Heavy metals contamination is posing severe threat to the soil health and environmental sustainability. Application of industrial and sewage waste as irrigation and growing urbanization and agricultural industry is the main reason for heavy metals pollution. Therefore, the present study was planned to assess the influence of different irrigation sources such as industrial effluents, sewage wastewater, tube well water, and canal water on the soil physio-chemical, soil biological, and enzymatic characteristics. Results showed that sewage waste and industrial effluents affect the soil pH, organic matter, total organic carbon, and cation exchange capacity. The highest total nickel (383.71 mg kg-1), lead (312.46 mg kg-1), cadmium (147.75 mg kg-1), and chromium (163.64 mg kg-1) were recorded with industrial effluents application. Whereas, industrial effluent greatly reduced the soil microbial biomass carbon (SMB-C), soil microbial biomass nitrogen (SMB-N), soil microbial biomass phosphorus (SMB-P), and soil microbial biomass sulphur (SMB-S) in the winter season at sowing time. Industrial effluent and sewage waste inhibited the soil enzymes activities. For instance, the minimum activity of amidase, urease, alkaline-phosphatase, ß-glucosidase, arylsulphatase and dehydrogenase activity was noted with HMs contamination. The higher levels of metals accumulation was observed in vegetables grown in soil contaminated with untreated waste water and industrial effluent in comparison to soil irrigated with canal and tube well water. The mean increase in soil microbial parameters and enzyme activities was also observed in response to the change in season from winter to spring due to increase in soil mean temperature. The SMB-C, SMB-N, SMB-P and SMB-S showed significant positive correlation with soil enzymes (amidase, urease, alkaline-phosphatase, ß-glucosidase, arylsulphatase and dehydrogenase). The heavy metals accumulation in soil is toxic to microorganisms and inhibits enzyme functions critical for nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition and can disrupt the delicate balance of soil ecosystem and may lead to long-term damage of soil biological health.

Medical Management Versus Endovascular Treatment for Large-Vessel Occlusion Anterior Circulation Stroke With Low NIHSS.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients presenting with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 0 to 5 is common in clinical practice but has not yet been proven safe and effective. Our objective is to assess whether EVT on top of best medical treatment (BMT) in AIS patients with large-vessel occlusion of the anterior circulation presenting with mild symptoms is beneficial compared with BMT. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and reference lists of retrieved articles published until December 28, 2022. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify clinical trials or observational cohort studies evaluating patients with AIS due to anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion and admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5 treated with EVT versus BMT alone. The primary outcome was excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-1) at 3 months. The protocol had been registered before data collection (PROSPERO). RESULTS: Eleven observational eligible studies were included in the meta-analysis, comprising a total of 2019 AIS patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤5 treated with EVT versus 3171 patients treated with BMT. EVT was not associated with excellent functional outcome (risk ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 0.93-1.31]). When stratified for different study design (per-protocol versus intention-to-treat), there were no significant subgroup differences. EVT was not associated with good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-2; risk ratio, 1.01 [95% CI, 0.89-1.16]) or reduced disability at 3 months (common odds ratio, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.60-1.41]). Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was more common in the patients receiving EVT (risk ratio, 3.53 [95% CI, 2.35-5.31]). No correlation was found between EVT and mortality at 3 months (risk ratio, 1.34 [95% CI, 0.83-2.18]). The same overall associations were confirmed in the sensitivity analysis of studies that performed propensity score matching. CONCLUSIONS: EVT appears equivalent to BMT for patients with anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion AIS with low baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, despite the increased risk for symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Unique identifier: CRD42022334417.

Delineating Zinc Influx Mechanisms during Platelet Activation.

Zinc (Zn2+) is released by platelets during a hemostatic response to injury. Extracellular zinc ([Zn2+]o) initiates platelet activation following influx into the platelet cytosol. However, the mechanisms that permit Zn2+ influx are unknown. Fluctuations in intracellular zinc ([Zn2+]i) were measured in fluozin-3-loaded platelets using fluorometry and flow cytometry. Platelet activation was assessed using light transmission aggregometry. The detection of phosphoproteins was performed by Western blotting. [Zn2+]o influx and subsequent platelet activation were abrogated by blocking the sodium/calcium exchanged, TRP channels, and ZIP7. Cation store depletion regulated Zn2+ influx. [Zn2+]o stimulation resulted in the phosphorylation of PKC substates, MLC, and ß3 integrin. Platelet activation via GPVI or Zn2+ resulted in ZIP7 phosphorylation in a casein kinase 2-dependent manner and initiated elevations of [Zn2+]i that were sensitive to the inhibition of Orai1, ZIP7, or IP3R-mediated pathways. These data indicate that platelets detect and respond to changes in [Zn2+]o via influx into the cytosol through TRP channels and the NCX exchanger. Platelet activation results in the externalization of ZIP7, which further regulates Zn2+ influx. Increases in [Zn2+]i contribute to the activation of cation-dependent enzymes. Sensitivity of Zn2+ influx to thapsigargin indicates a store-operated pathway that we term store-operated Zn2+ entry (SOZE). These mechanisms may affect platelet behavior during thrombosis and hemostasis.

Predictors of functional outcome after symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage complicating intravenous thrombolysis: results from the SITS-ISTR.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Several risk factors of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) following intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke have been established. However, potential predictors of good functional outcome post-SICH have been less studied. METHODS: Patient data registered in the Safe Implementation of Treatment in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register (SITS-ISTR) from 2005 to 2021 were used. Acute ischaemic stroke patients who developed post intravenous thrombolysis SICH according to the SITS Monitoring Study definition were analyzed to identify predictors of functional outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 1679 patients with reported SICH were included, out of which only 2.8% achieved good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale scores of 0-2), whilst 80.9% died at 3 months. Higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score and 24-h ΔNIHSS score were independently associated with a lower likelihood of achieving both good and excellent functional outcomes at 3 months. Baseline NIHSS and hematoma location (presence of both SICHs, defined as remote and local SICH concurrently; n = 478) were predictors of early mortality within 24 h. Independent predictors of 3-month mortality were age, baseline NIHSS, 24-h ΔNIHSS, admission serum glucose values and hematoma location (both SICHs). Age, baseline NIHSS score, 24-h ΔNIHSS, hyperlipidemia, prior stroke/transient ischaemic attack, antiplatelet treatment, diastolic blood pressure at admission, glucose values on admission and SICH location (both SICHs) were associated with reduced disability at 3 months (≥1-point reduction across all modified Rankin Scale scores). Patients with remote SICH (n = 219) and local SICH (n = 964) had comparable clinical outcomes, both before and after propensity score matching. CONCLUSIONS: Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage presents an alarmingly high prevalence of adverse clinical outcomes, with no difference in clinical outcomes between remote and local SICH.

Reperfusion by endovascular thrombectomy and early cerebral edema in anterior circulation stroke: Results from the SITS-International Stroke Thrombectomy Registry.

BACKGROUND: A large infarct and expanding cerebral edema (CED) due to a middle cerebral artery occlusion confers a 70% mortality unless treated surgically. There is still conflicting evidence whether reperfusion is associated with a lower risk for CED in acute ischemic stroke. AIM: To investigate the association of reperfusion with development of early CED after stroke thrombectomy. METHODS: From the SITS-International Stroke Thrombectomy Registry, we selected patients with occlusion of the intracranial internal carotid or middle cerebral artery (M1 or M2). Successful reperfusion was defined as mTICI ⩾ 2b. Primary outcome was moderate or severe CED, defined as focal brain swelling ⩾1/3 of the hemisphere on imaging scans at 24 h. We used regression methods while adjusting for baseline variables. Effect modification by severe early neurological deficits, as indicators of large infarct at baseline and at 24 h, were explored. RESULTS: In total, 4640 patients, median age 70 years and median National Institutes of Health Stroke Score (NIHSS) 16, were included. Of these, 86% had successful reperfusion. Moderate or severe CED was less frequent among patients who had reperfusion compared to patients without reperfusion: 12.5% versus 29.6%, p < 0.05, crude risk ratio (RR) 0.42 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37-0.49), and adjusted RR 0.50 (95% CI: 0.44-0.57). Analysis of effect modification indicated that severe neurological deficits weakened the association between reperfusion and lower risk of CED. The RR reduction was less favorable in patients with severe neurological deficits, defined as NIHSS score 15 or more at baseline and at 24 h, used as an indicator for larger infarction. CONCLUSION: In patients with large artery anterior circulation occlusion stroke who underwent thrombectomy, successful reperfusion was associated with approximately 50% lower risk for early CED. Severe neurological deficit at baseline seems to be a predictor for moderate or severe CED also in patients with successful reperfusion by thrombectomy.

Impact of prehospital stroke triage implementation on patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Background: Little is known about how prehospital triage using large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke prediction scales affects patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Objectives: We aimed to investigate whether the Stockholm Stroke Triage System (SSTS) implemented in 2017 has affected timing and outcomes of acute ICH neurosurgery, and to assess system triage accuracy for ICH with a neurosurgical indication or LVO thrombectomy. Design: Observational cohort study. Methods: In the Stockholm Region, we compared surgical timing, functional outcome, and death at 3 months in patients transported by code-stroke ground ambulance who had ICH neurosurgery, 2 years before versus 2 years after SSTS implementation. We also calculated triage precision metrics for treatment with either ICH neurosurgery or thrombectomy. Results: A total of 36 patients undergoing ICH neurosurgery were included before SSTS implementation and 30 after. No significant difference was found in timing of neurosurgery [median 7.5 (4.9-20.7) versus 9.1 (6.1-12.5) h after onset], distribution of functional outcomes (median 4 versus 4), and death at 3 months [3/29 (9%) versus 5/35 (17%)] before versus after implementation, respectively. The SSTS routed a larger proportion of patients subsequently undergoing ICH neurosurgery directly to the comprehensive stroke center: 13/36 (36%) before versus 18/30 (60%) after implementation. Overall system triage accuracy for ICH neurosurgery or thrombectomy was high at 90%, with 92% specificity and 65% sensitivity. Conclusion: The SSTS, initially designed for prehospital LVO stroke triage, routed more patients with neurosurgical indication for ICH directly to the comprehensive stroke center. This did not significantly affect surgical timing or outcomes.

Association of cholesterol levels with hemorrhagic transformation and cerebral edema after reperfusion therapies.

Background: The association between cholesterol levels and cerebral edema (CED) or hemorrhagic transformation (HT) as an expressions of blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction after ischemic stroke is not well established. The aim of this study is to determine the association of total cholesterol (TC) levels with the incidence of HT and CED after reperfusion therapies. Methods: We analyzed SITS Thrombolysis and Thrombectomy Registry data from January 2011 to December 2017. We identified patients with data on TC levels at baseline. TC values were categorized in three groups (reference group ⩾200 mg/dl). The two primary outcomes were any parenchymal hemorrhage (PH) and moderate to severe CED on follow up imaging. Secondary outcomes included death and functional independence (mRS 0-2) at 3 months. Multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for baseline factors including statin pretreatment was used to assess the association between TC levels and outcomes. Results: Of 35,314 patients with available information on TC levels at baseline, 3372 (9.5%) presented with TC levels ⩽130 mg/dl, 8203 (23.2%) with TC 130-200 mg/dl and 23,739 (67.3%) with TC ⩾ 200 mg/dl. In the adjusted analyses, TC level as continuous variable was inversely associated with moderate to severe CED (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.99-1.00, p = 0.025) and as categorical variable lower TC levels were associated with a higher risk of moderate to severe CED (aOR 1.24, 95% CI 1.10-1.40, p = 0.003). TC levels were not associated with any PH, functional independence, and mortality at 3 months. Conclusions: Our findings indicate an independent association between low levels of TC and higher odds of moderate/severe CED. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Reperfusion Treatments in Disabling Versus Nondisabling Mild Stroke due to Anterior Circulation Vessel Occlusion.

BACKGROUND: The benefit of distinguishing between disabling versus nondisabling deficit in mild acute ischemic stroke due to endovascular thrombectomy-targetable vessel occlusion (EVT-tVO; including anterior circulation large and medium-vessel occlusion) is unknown. We compared safety and efficacy of acute reperfusion treatments in disabling versus nondisabling mild EVT-tVO. METHODS: From the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register, we included consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients (2015-2021) treated within 4.5 hours, with full NIHSS items availability and score ≤5, evidence of intracranial internal carotid artery, M1, A1-2, or M2-3 occlusion. After propensity score matching, we compared efficacy (3-month modified Rankin Scale score of 0-1, modified Rankin Scale score of 0-2, and early neurological improvement) and safety (nonhemorrhagic early neurological deterioration, any intracerebral or subarachnoid hemorrhage, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, and death at 3-month) outcomes in disabling versus nondisabling patients-adopting an available definition. RESULTS: We included 1459 patients. Propensity score matched analysis of disabling versus nondisabling EVT-tVO (n=336 per group) found no significant differences in efficacy (modified Rankin Scale score 0-1: 67.4% versus 71.5%, P=0.336; modified Rankin Scale score 0-2: 77.1% versus 77.6%, P=0.895; early neurological improvement: 38.3% versus 44.4%, P=0.132) and safety (nonhemorrhagic early neurological deterioration: 8.5% versus 8.0%, P=0.830; any intracerebral hemorrhage or subarachnoid hemorrhage: 12.5% versus 13.3%, P=0.792; symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage: 2.6% versus 3.4%, P=0.598; and 3-month death: 9.8% versus 9.2%, P=0.844) outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: We found similar safety and efficacy outcomes after acute reperfusion treatment in disabling versus nondisabling mild EVT-tVO; our findings suggest to adopt similar acute treatment approaches in the 2 groups. Randomized data are needed to clarify the best reperfusion treatment in mild EVT-tVO.

Intravenous thrombolysis + endovascular thrombectomy versus thrombolysis alone in large vessel occlusion mild stroke: a propensity score matched analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The best reperfusion treatment for patients with mild acute ischaemic stroke harbouring proximal anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO) is unknown. The aim was to compare the safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) plus endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) versus IVT alone in LVO patients with mild symptoms. METHODS: From the Safe Implementation of Treatment in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis and Thrombectomy Register (SITS-ISTR), were included: (i) consecutive acute ischaemic stroke patients, (ii) treated within 4.5 h from symptoms onset, (iii) baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≤5 and (iv) intracranial internal carotid artery [ICA], M1 or T occlusion [defined as occlusion of ICA terminal bifurcation]. After propensity score matching, 3-month functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0-1 and 0-2) and safety outcomes (symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage and death) were compared (via univariable and multivariable logistic [and ordinal] regression analyses) in patients treated with IVT + EVT versus IVT alone. RESULTS: In all, 1037 patients were included. After propensity score matching (n = 312 per group), IVT + EVT was independently associated with poor functional outcomes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.46 for mRS 0-1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30-0.72, p = 0.001; aOR 0.52 for mRS 0-2, 95% CI 0.32-0.84, p = 0.007; aOR 1.61 for 1-point shift in mRS score, 95% CI 1.12-2.32, p = 0.011), with no significant differences in safety outcomes compared to IVT alone, despite numerically higher rates of symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (3.3% vs. 1.1%; p = 0.082), a higher rate of any haemorrhagic transformation (17.6% vs. 7.3%; p < 0.001) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (7.9% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.002) in the IVT + EVT group. DISCUSSION: In anterior circulation LVO patients presenting with NIHSS score ≤5, IVT + EVT (vs. IVT alone) was associated with poorer 3-month functional outcome. Randomized controlled trials are needed to elucidate the best treatments in mild LVO patients.

Association of statin pre-treatment with baseline stroke severity and outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke and received reperfusion treatment: An observational study.

BACKGROUND: Statins have an important role in stroke prevention, especially in high-risk populations and may also affect the initial stroke severity and outcomes in patients taking them before an ischemic stroke. AIMS: Our aim was to evaluate the association of statin pre-treatment with the severity in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). METHODS: We analyzed AIS patients received intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and/or endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and recorded in the SITS International Thrombolysis and Thrombectomy Registry from 2011 to 2017. We identified patients with statin information at baseline. The primary outcome was baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score. Secondary outcomes were NIHSS score at 24 h, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) and functional outcome at 90 days after acute intervention. Multivariable linear and logistic regression and propensity score matching (PSM) was used to quantify the effect of statin pre-treatment. RESULTS: Of 93,849 patients, 23,651 (25.2%) were treated with statins prior the AIS. Statin pre-treatment group was older and had higher comorbidity. Median NIHSS at baseline was similar between groups. In the adjusted and PSM analysis, statin pre-treatment was inversely associated with baseline NIHSS (odds ratio (OR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.6-0.99 and OR for PSM 0.73, 95% CI = 0.54-0.99, p = 0.004) and independently associated with mild stroke defined as NIHSS ⩽8 in adjusted and PSM analysis (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.1-1.34, p < 0.001 and OR for PSM 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05-1.31, p = 0.007). Regarding secondary outcomes, there were no differences in functional outcomes, death nor SICH rates between groups. CONCLUSION: Prior treatment with statins was associated with lower NIHSS at baseline. However, this association did not translate into any difference regarding functional outcome at 90 days. No association was found regarding SICH. These findings indicate the need of further studies to assess the effect on statin pre-treatment on initial stroke severity.

Cerebral Edema in Patients with severe Hemispheric Syndrome: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes-Data from SITS-ISTR.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cerebral edema (CED) in ischemic stroke can worsen prognosis and about 70% of patients who develop severe CED die if treated conservatively. We aimed to describe incidence, risk factors and outcomes of CED in patients with extensive ischemia. METHODS: Oservational study based on Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Treatment Registry (2003-2019). Severe hemispheric syndrome (SHS) at baseline and persistent SHS (pSHS) at 24 hours were defined as National Institutes of Health Stroke Score (NIHSS) >15. Outcomes were moderate/severe CED detected by neuroimaging, functional independence (modified Rankin Scale 0-2) and death at 90 days. RESULTS: Patients (n=8,560) presented with SHS and developed pSHS at 24 hours; 82.2% received intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), 10.5% IVT+thrombectomy, and 7.3% thrombectomy alone. Median age was 77 and NIHSS 21. Of 7,949 patients with CED data, 3,780 (47.6%) had any CED and 2,297 (28.9%) moderate/severe CED. In the multivariable analysis, age <50 years (relative risk [RR], 1.56), signs of acute infarct (RR, 1.29), hyperdense artery sign (RR, 1.39), blood glucose >128.5 mg/dL (RR, 1.21), and decreased level of consciousness (RR, 1.14) were associated with moderate/severe CED (for all P<0.05). Patients with moderate/severe CED had lower odds to achieve functional Independence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.23 to 0.55) and higher odds of death at 90 days (aOR, 2.54; 95% CI, 2.14 to 3.02). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with extensive ischemia, the most important predictors for moderate/ severe CED were age <50, high blood glucose, signs of acute infarct, hyperdense artery on baseline scans, and decreased level of consciousness. CED was associated with worse functional outcome and a higher risk of death at 3 months.

Adapting a Dialysis Service for Delivery of Percutaneous Arteriovenous Fistulas.

The percutaneous arteriovenous fistula (pAVF) is an exciting and novel addition to the vascular access options available to patients with end-stage kidney disease who require dialysis. Early clinical results have been promising, with high rates of maturation and low rates of reintervention. To successfully adapt an existing hemodialysis service to include the provision of pAVF formation, it is essential to identify and align the interests of key clinical and nonclinical stakeholders. Only through strong collaboration can the service be supported. The authors provide a comprehensive overview of the planning fundamentals required, including the referral pathway, screening and clinical assessment, and practical procedural elements and considerations, as well as follow-up requirements such as cannulation, fistula surveillance, and maintenance. Key staffing requirements are highlighted, including those pertaining to vascular US screening and dialysis nurse training. A broad and structured planning approach ensures that the entire network of key stakeholder interests is included and provides a strong foundation for a compelling business plan to attract the necessary funding and managerial support for the service. The authors present a systematic framework of the essential considerations necessary to facilitate the planning, funding, and ultimately delivery of a successful pAVF service. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ©RSNA, 2022.

Analysis and modelling of mistriage in the Stockholm stroke triage system.

Introduction: The Stockholm Stroke Triage System (SSTS) is a prehospital triage system for detection of patients eligible for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Assessment of hemiparesis combined with ambulance-hospital teleconsultation is used to route patients directly to the thrombectomy centre. Some patients are not identified and require secondary transport for EVT (undertriage) while others taken to the thrombectomy centre do not undergo EVT (overtriage). The aims of this study were to characterize mistriaged patients, model for and evaluate alternative triage algorithms. Patients and methods: Patients with suspected stroke transported by priority 1 ground ambulance between October 2017 and October 2018 (n = 2905) were included. Three triage algorithms were modelled using prehospital data. Decision curve analysis was performed to calculate net benefit (correctly routing patients for EVT without increasing mistriage) of alternative models vs SSTS. Results: Undertriage for EVT occurred in n = 35/2582 (1.4%) and overtriage in n = 239/323 (74.0%). Compared to correct thrombectomy triages, undertriaged patients were younger and had lower median NIHSS (10 vs 18), despite 62.9% with an M1 occlusion. In overtriaged patients, 77.0% had a stroke diagnosis (29.7% haemorrhagic). Hemiparesis and FAST items face and speech were included in all models. Decision curve analysis showed highest net benefit for SSTS for EVT, but lower for large artery occlusion (LAO) stroke. Discussion: Undertriaged patients had lower NIHSS, likely due to better compensated proximal occlusions. SSTS was superior to other models for identifying EVT candidates, but lacked information allowing comparison to other prehospital scales. Conclusion: Using prehospital data, alternative models did not outperform the SSTS in finding EVT candidates.

Intravenous Thrombolysis with Tenecteplase for the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke.

OBJECTIVE: Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) with tenecteplase has been associated with better clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with confirmed large vessel occlusions compared to IVT with alteplase. However, the utility of tenecteplase for the treatment of all AIS patients eligible for IVT has not been established. METHODS: We compared the safety and efficacy of tenecteplase versus alteplase in AIS patients by analyzing propensity score matched data from 20 centers participating in the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register. Patients receiving IVT with tenecteplase were matched with up to 3 patients receiving alteplase from the same center. The primary outcome of interest was the distribution of 3-month functional outcomes. Secondary outcomes included the rates of patients with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) in the first 24 hours, excellent (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score = 0-1) or good (mRS score = 0-2) functional outcome, and all-cause mortality at 3 months. RESULTS: A total of 331 tenecteplase-treated AIS patients were matched to 797 patients treated with alteplase (median age = 70 years, 43.9% women, median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score = 11, interquartile range = 6-17). Patients treated with tenecteplase had better 3-month functional outcomes (common odds ratio [OR] = 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18-2.00) with higher odds of good functional outcome (OR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.45-2.77) and a lower likelihood of all-cause mortality (OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.27-0.67) at 3 months, compared to alteplase-treated patients. No difference was found in the likelihood of the 3-month excellent functional outcomes (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.96-1.78) and 24-hour SICH (1.0% vs 1.3%, OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.20-2.64). INTERPRETATION: IVT with tenecteplase was associated with better 3-month clinical outcomes compared to IVT with alteplase in AIS patients, with no increased risk of symptomatic intracranial bleeding. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:349-357.