Pub Date : 2026-01-07DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108554
Jianfeng Qi , Zhimin Zhang , Jixiang Yin , Xuhui Yuan , Xu Wang , Zexiang Liu , Yuhang Liu , Jianjun Wang
Background
Pdcd4 is a potential target for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) treatment. This research intended to elucidate the mechanism by which Pdcd4 regulates ICH progression.
Methods
Male mice were infected with sh-Pdcd4 lentivirus, followed by injection of bacterial collagenase to establish an ICH model. Subsequent experiments, including brain water content assessment, neurological injury scoring, brain hematoma volume measurement, ELISA, HE staining, immunohistochemistry, Evans blue extravasation assay, and Western blot, were conducted to analyze the role of Pdcd4 in ICH. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 was employed to further investigate the potential mechanisms in vivo. bEnd.3 cells were infected with sh-Pdcd4 in the presence or absence of tunicamycin (an ER stress inducer), followed by hemoglobin treatment to mimic ICH in vitro. The effects of Pdcd4 on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in ICH were evaluated through CCK-8, ELISA, and Western blot assays.
Results
Pdcd4 was upregulated in ICH mice, with the highest levels observed at 24 h. Pdcd4 knockdown markedly alleviated brain injury and neuroinflammation, inhibited ER stress, and upregulated PI3K/AKT pathway in ICH mice. These changes were partially reversed by LY294002. In bEnd.3 cells, Pdcd4 levels were significantly increased after hemoglobin treatment. Additionally, Pdcd4 knockdown significantly increased cell viability and inhibited inflammatory factor secretion and ER stress in the ICH group. This phenomenon was partially counteracted by tunicamycin. Furthermore, Pdcd4 knockdown markedly activated the PI3K/AKT pathway in the ICH group.
Conclusion
Pdcd4 knockdown alleviates ICH through PI3K/AKT pathway-mediated ER stress.
{"title":"Knockdown of programmed cell death 4 inhibits endoplasmic reticulum stress in male mice with intracerebral hemorrhage through the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway","authors":"Jianfeng Qi , Zhimin Zhang , Jixiang Yin , Xuhui Yuan , Xu Wang , Zexiang Liu , Yuhang Liu , Jianjun Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108554","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108554","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Pdcd4 is a potential target for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) treatment. This research intended to elucidate the mechanism by which Pdcd4 regulates ICH progression.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Male mice were infected with sh-<em>Pdcd4</em> lentivirus, followed by injection of bacterial collagenase to establish an ICH model. Subsequent experiments, including brain water content assessment, neurological injury scoring, brain hematoma volume measurement, ELISA, HE staining, immunohistochemistry, Evans blue extravasation assay, and Western blot, were conducted to analyze the role of Pdcd4 in ICH. PI3K inhibitor LY294002 was employed to further investigate the potential mechanisms <em>in vivo</em>. bEnd.3 cells were infected with sh-<em>Pdcd4</em> in the presence or absence of tunicamycin (an ER stress inducer), followed by hemoglobin treatment to mimic ICH <em>in vitro</em>. The effects of Pdcd4 on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in ICH were evaluated through CCK-8, ELISA, and Western blot assays.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Pdcd4 was upregulated in ICH mice, with the highest levels observed at 24 h. <em>Pdcd4</em> knockdown markedly alleviated brain injury and neuroinflammation, inhibited ER stress, and upregulated PI3K/AKT pathway in ICH mice. These changes were partially reversed by LY294002. In bEnd.3 cells, Pdcd4 levels were significantly increased after hemoglobin treatment. Additionally, <em>Pdcd4</em> knockdown significantly increased cell viability and inhibited inflammatory factor secretion and ER stress in the ICH group. This phenomenon was partially counteracted by tunicamycin. Furthermore, <em>Pdcd4</em> knockdown markedly activated the PI3K/AKT pathway in the ICH group.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div><em>Pdcd4</em> knockdown alleviates ICH through PI3K/AKT pathway-mediated ER stress.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108554"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145947141","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-07DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108552
Oladotun V. Olalusi , Tobi Olajide , Akintomiwa I. Makanjuola , Joseph Yaria , Rufus O. Akinyemi , Mayowa O. Owolabi , Adesola Ogunniyi
As health systems globally grapple with increasing stroke burden, physician shortage and fragile healthcare infrastructure, an understudied and yet underrecognized phenomenon is gaining attention. Just as the more widely described neurophobia, gaps within the stroke educational and training ecosystem lead to strokophobia - a phenomenon that describes fear or hesitation among health care providers and trainees with diagnosing and managing patients with stroke. It often stems from lack of interest, perceived difficulty/complexity, low confidence and inadequate knowledge of stroke neurology or unfamiliarity with stroke care protocols. This fuels prognostic pessimism which may lead to poor outcome. Gaps in stroke neurology education and ensuing strokophobia have implications across all strata of the stroke care continuum, from early-career practitioners (medical students/residents and other health-care trainees) to advanced-career practitioners (clinicians and stroke-support staff) and the community (caregivers, policy makers and payers). This review explores strokophobia, highlights the burden and implications for stroke care globally, while proposing a three-tier strategy to addressing the problem with the aim of improving confidence and clinical outcomes. Specifically, we describe targeted educational strategies that should be implemented across the stroke care continuum from the student/trainee level to clinicians as well as care givers and policy makers, with the aim of building a robust stroke care ecosystem. Tailored stroke education should be designed to the specific context and target population to improve usable knowledge, boost bedside clinical confidence and competence, increase interest and ultimately improve clinical outcomes.
{"title":"Strokophobia in the stroke care continuum: An under-recognized global phenomenon with profound implications","authors":"Oladotun V. Olalusi , Tobi Olajide , Akintomiwa I. Makanjuola , Joseph Yaria , Rufus O. Akinyemi , Mayowa O. Owolabi , Adesola Ogunniyi","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108552","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108552","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>As health systems globally grapple with increasing stroke burden, physician shortage and fragile healthcare infrastructure, an understudied and yet underrecognized phenomenon is gaining attention. Just as the more widely described neurophobia, gaps within the stroke educational and training ecosystem lead to strokophobia - a phenomenon that describes fear or hesitation among health care providers and trainees with diagnosing and managing patients with stroke. It often stems from lack of interest, perceived difficulty/complexity, low confidence and inadequate knowledge of stroke neurology or unfamiliarity with stroke care protocols. This fuels prognostic pessimism which may lead to poor outcome. Gaps in stroke neurology education and ensuing strokophobia have implications across all strata of the stroke care continuum, from early-career practitioners (medical students/residents and other health-care trainees) to advanced-career practitioners (clinicians and stroke-support staff) and the community (caregivers, policy makers and payers). This review explores strokophobia, highlights the burden and implications for stroke care globally, while proposing a three-tier strategy to addressing the problem with the aim of improving confidence and clinical outcomes. Specifically, we describe targeted educational strategies that should be implemented across the stroke care continuum from the student/trainee level to clinicians as well as care givers and policy makers, with the aim of building a robust stroke care ecosystem. Tailored stroke education should be designed to the specific context and target population to improve usable knowledge, boost bedside clinical confidence and competence, increase interest and ultimately improve clinical outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108552"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145947151","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-07DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108555
Tracey H Fan , Molly Lawrence , Elena Badillo Goicoechea , Angela Wick , Shyam Prabhakaran
Purpose
While prehospital triage protocols for suspected large vessel occlusion (LVO) improve ischemic stroke outcomes, their impact in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) remain uncertain. We evaluated whether a regional LVO-focused emergency medical service (EMS) transport protocol affected time-based process outcomes and clinical outcomes in sICH patients.
Method
We conducted a multicenter pre-post implementation retrospective cohort study using the Get-With-The-Guidelines-Stroke database in Chicago (April 2017–January 2020). Included were EMS-transported sICH patients arriving ≤6 hours from last known normal at 8 comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) and 15 primary stroke centers (PSCs). In September 2018, EMS implemented the 3-Item Stroke Scale (3I-SS) to triage suspected LVO stroke patients; those scoring ≥4 were routed to a CSC bypassing PSC. Primary outcome was favorable discharge disposition (home/acute rehabilitation). Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, good neurologic outcome (independent ambulation) at discharge and time based process outcomes (door-to-CT, symptom-to-arrival, symptom-to-CT). Interrupted time series (ITS) analysis assessed changes while accounting for temporal trends.
Findings
Among 303 sICH patients (111 pre-, 192 post-implementation), there was no difference in favorable discharge disposition (58% vs. 64%, p=0.3), in-hospital mortality (12% vs. 9%, p=0.4) or good neurologic outcomes (13% vs. 19%, p=0.4) between pre-post implementation periods for both unadjusted or ITS analyses. Time based process outcomes showed no significant changes in unadjusted or ITS analyses. The protocol also did not impact CSC admission and inter-hospital transfer rates in ITS analyses.
Discussion/Conclusion
Implementation of an LVO-focused EMS transport protocol did not improve clinical outcomes or time-based process outcomes among sICH patients, nor did it influence CSC admission or transfer rates. These findings suggest that while beneficial for ischemic stroke care, LVO triage protocols may not confer the same advantages for sICH patients and may require tailored approaches for this population.
{"title":"Impact of prehospital comprehensive stroke center vs. primary stroke center triage protocol on outcome of patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage","authors":"Tracey H Fan , Molly Lawrence , Elena Badillo Goicoechea , Angela Wick , Shyam Prabhakaran","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108555","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108555","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>While prehospital triage protocols for suspected large vessel occlusion (LVO) improve ischemic stroke outcomes, their impact in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) remain uncertain. We evaluated whether a regional LVO-focused emergency medical service (EMS) transport protocol affected time-based process outcomes and clinical outcomes in sICH patients.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>We conducted a multicenter pre-post implementation retrospective cohort study using the Get-With-The-Guidelines-Stroke database in Chicago (April 2017–January 2020). Included were EMS-transported sICH patients arriving ≤6 hours from last known normal at 8 comprehensive stroke centers (CSCs) and 15 primary stroke centers (PSCs). In September 2018, EMS implemented the 3-Item Stroke Scale (3I-SS) to triage suspected LVO stroke patients; those scoring ≥4 were routed to a CSC bypassing PSC. Primary outcome was favorable discharge disposition (home/acute rehabilitation). Secondary outcomes included in-hospital mortality, good neurologic outcome (independent ambulation) at discharge and time based process outcomes (door-to-CT, symptom-to-arrival, symptom-to-CT). Interrupted time series (ITS) analysis assessed changes while accounting for temporal trends.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>Among 303 sICH patients (111 pre-, 192 post-implementation), there was no difference in favorable discharge disposition (58% vs. 64%, <em>p</em>=0.3), in-hospital mortality (12% vs. 9%, <em>p</em>=0.4) or good neurologic outcomes (13% vs. 19%, <em>p</em>=0.4) between pre-post implementation periods for both unadjusted or ITS analyses. Time based process outcomes showed no significant changes in unadjusted or ITS analyses. The protocol also did not impact CSC admission and inter-hospital transfer rates in ITS analyses.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion/Conclusion</h3><div>Implementation of an LVO-focused EMS transport protocol did not improve clinical outcomes or time-based process outcomes among sICH patients, nor did it influence CSC admission or transfer rates. These findings suggest that while beneficial for ischemic stroke care, LVO triage protocols may not confer the same advantages for sICH patients and may require tailored approaches for this population.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 3","pages":"Article 108555"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145947131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-05DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108550
Hameer Ali , Rida Shehzad , Usama Ahmed , Yahya Abualown , Wajida Perveen , Junaid Gulzar , Saad Azam , Zain ul Abideen , Shah e Zaman , Umair Hayat , Uzair Jafar , Muhammad Ehsan , Bilawal Nadeem , Ankit Agrawal , Raheel Ahmed
Introduction and Objective
Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the most common cerebrovascular diseases, posing a substantial burden on public health systems and individuals. Tirofiban and eptifibatide are used alongside intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with AIS, as they are believed to improve clinical outcomes. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of IV tirofiban or eptifibatide as adjunctive therapy versus using IVT alone in patients with AIS.
Methods
We conducted a systematic search using PubMed, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov to retrieve randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing adjunctive tirofiban or eptifibatide to IVT alone in patients with AIS. The quality of included RCTs and observational studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane “Risk of Bias” tool (RoB 2.0) and Newcastle– Ottawa Scale (NOS), respectively. All statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4, using the random effects model with Risk Ratio (RR) and Mean difference (MD) as effect measures.
Results
Our meta-analysis included eleven studies, including seven RCTs and four observational studies, involving 1,796 patients. Our results showed that the number of patients with functional independence in the adjunctive therapy group (mRS score 0–2 at 90 days) was comparable to IVT alone (11 studies; n = 1686; RR 1.10; 95% CI, 0.90 - 1.36). There was no evidence of publication bias. Sensitivity analysis with evidence from RCTs showed that adjunctive Tirofiban may improve functional independence at 90 days. The incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) (8 studies; n = 1234; RR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.37 - 1.48) and mortality (11 studies; n = 1686; RR=1.18; 95% CI, 0.82-1.70) was also found to be comparable between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups when assessing the risk of any ICH, asymptomatic ICH, major hemorrhage or systemic bleeding, and fatal ICH. The incidence of early neurologic deterioration and mean change in mRS score remained comparable between the two groups.
Conclusion
Our meta-analysis suggests that while adjunctive tirofiban or eptifibatide with IVT do not yield benefits in terms of reducing mortality or improving functional independence at 90 days in AIS, emerging evidence from RCTs indicates that tirofiban may offer functional benefits, though this remains uncertain. Importantly, adjunctive therapy did not demonstrate a significant increase in bleeding risk in the analyzed studies. . These findings support the need for further large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials to explain the role of tirofiban in the management of AIS.
{"title":"Safety and efficacy of adjunctive tirofiban and eptifibatide in acute ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Hameer Ali , Rida Shehzad , Usama Ahmed , Yahya Abualown , Wajida Perveen , Junaid Gulzar , Saad Azam , Zain ul Abideen , Shah e Zaman , Umair Hayat , Uzair Jafar , Muhammad Ehsan , Bilawal Nadeem , Ankit Agrawal , Raheel Ahmed","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108550","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108550","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction and Objective</h3><div>Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the most common cerebrovascular diseases, posing a substantial burden on public health systems and individuals. Tirofiban and eptifibatide are used alongside intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with AIS, as they are believed to improve clinical outcomes. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of IV tirofiban or eptifibatide as adjunctive therapy versus using IVT alone in patients with AIS.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We conducted a systematic search using PubMed, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov to retrieve randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing adjunctive tirofiban or eptifibatide to IVT alone in patients with AIS. The quality of included RCTs and observational studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane “Risk of Bias” tool (RoB 2.0) and Newcastle– Ottawa Scale (NOS), respectively. All statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4, using the random effects model with Risk Ratio (RR) and Mean difference (MD) as effect measures.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Our meta-analysis included eleven studies, including seven RCTs and four observational studies, involving 1,796 patients. Our results showed that the number of patients with functional independence in the adjunctive therapy group (mRS score 0–2 at 90 days) was comparable to IVT alone (11 studies; <em>n</em> = 1686; RR 1.10; 95% CI, 0.90 - 1.36). There was no evidence of publication bias. Sensitivity analysis with evidence from RCTs showed that adjunctive Tirofiban may improve functional independence at 90 days. The incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) (8 studies; <em>n</em> = 1234; RR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.37 - 1.48) and mortality (11 studies; <em>n</em> = 1686; RR=1.18; 95% CI, 0.82-1.70) was also found to be comparable between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups when assessing the risk of any ICH, asymptomatic ICH, major hemorrhage or systemic bleeding, and fatal ICH. The incidence of early neurologic deterioration and mean change in mRS score remained comparable between the two groups.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Our meta-analysis suggests that while adjunctive tirofiban or eptifibatide with IVT do not yield benefits in terms of reducing mortality or improving functional independence at 90 days in AIS, emerging evidence from RCTs indicates that tirofiban may offer functional benefits, though this remains uncertain. Importantly, adjunctive therapy did not demonstrate a significant increase in bleeding risk in the analyzed studies. . These findings support the need for further large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials to explain the role of tirofiban in the management of AIS.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108550"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145919286","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-05DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108549
Mayte Sanchez van Kammen MD, PhD , Sanjit Aaron MD , Jorge M Ferreira MD , Patrícia Canhão MD, PhD , Adriana B. Conforto MD , Antonio Arauz , Marta Carvalho MD , Jaime Masjuan MD , Vijay K Sharma MD , Jukka Putaala MD, PhD , Maarten Uyttenboogaart MD , Rodrigo Bazan MD , Bert A Coert MD , Prabhu Kirubakaran MD , Pankaj Singh MD , Diana Aguiar de Sousa MD, PhD , Jonathan M Coutinho MD, PhD , José M Ferro MD, PhD , the DECOMPRESS 2 study group
Background
Decompressive surgery can be lifesaving in patients with severe cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) and impending brain herniation. However, data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after surgery are limited.
Methods
DECOMPRESS-2 was a prospective cohort study including adult patients with CVT from 15 centers in 10 countries who underwent decompressive surgery (2011–2019). HRQoL was assessed using EQ5D-3 L utility scores, subdomains, and a visual analogue scale (VAS) at 6 and 12 months post-surgery. Complete case analysis, multiple imputation, best- and worst-case analyses were performed. Predictors of EQ5D-score (Tobit regression) and VAS (linear regression) at 12 months were analyzed.
Results
Of 118 patients, 112 were included (median age 38 years [IQR 27–46], 68% female). At 12-months, EQ5D-3 L and VAS were available for 89% and 90% of survivors, respectively. Median EQ5D-3L-score was 0.70 (IQR 0.52–0.85, mean 0.59 [SD 0.38]) and median VAS was 70 (IQR 56–80, mean 69 [SD 18]). Overall, 84% of patients reported problems in ≥1 subdomain of the EQ5D-3L: 68% with usual activities, 59% pain/discomfort, 58% anxiety/depression, 47% with self-care, 43% with mobility. Higher age and residence in a middle-income country (vs. high-income) predicted poorer EQ5D-3 L and VAS. Preoperative coma predicted worse EQ5D-3 L only.
Conclusions
Twelve months after decompressive surgery for CVT, over 4 out of 5 survivors reported problems in at least one subdomain of the EQ5D-3 L. Higher age, middle-income country status and preoperative coma were negative predictors of quality of life.
{"title":"Quality of life after decompressive surgery for severe cerebral venous thrombosis","authors":"Mayte Sanchez van Kammen MD, PhD , Sanjit Aaron MD , Jorge M Ferreira MD , Patrícia Canhão MD, PhD , Adriana B. Conforto MD , Antonio Arauz , Marta Carvalho MD , Jaime Masjuan MD , Vijay K Sharma MD , Jukka Putaala MD, PhD , Maarten Uyttenboogaart MD , Rodrigo Bazan MD , Bert A Coert MD , Prabhu Kirubakaran MD , Pankaj Singh MD , Diana Aguiar de Sousa MD, PhD , Jonathan M Coutinho MD, PhD , José M Ferro MD, PhD , the DECOMPRESS 2 study group","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108549","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108549","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Decompressive surgery can be lifesaving in patients with severe cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) and impending brain herniation. However, data on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after surgery are limited.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>DECOMPRESS-2 was a prospective cohort study including adult patients with CVT from 15 centers in 10 countries who underwent decompressive surgery (2011–2019). HRQoL was assessed using EQ5D-3 L utility scores, subdomains, and a visual analogue scale (VAS) at 6 and 12 months post-surgery. Complete case analysis, multiple imputation, best- and worst-case analyses were performed. Predictors of EQ5D-score (Tobit regression) and VAS (linear regression) at 12 months were analyzed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of 118 patients, 112 were included (median age 38 years [IQR 27–46], 68% female). At 12-months, EQ5D-3 L and VAS were available for 89% and 90% of survivors, respectively. Median EQ5D-3L-score was 0.70 (IQR 0.52–0.85, mean 0.59 [SD 0.38]) and median VAS was 70 (IQR 56–80, mean 69 [SD 18]). Overall, 84% of patients reported problems in ≥1 subdomain of the EQ5D-3L: 68% with usual activities, 59% pain/discomfort, 58% anxiety/depression, 47% with self-care, 43% with mobility. Higher age and residence in a middle-income country (vs. high-income) predicted poorer EQ5D-3 L and VAS. Preoperative coma predicted worse EQ5D-3 L only.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Twelve months after decompressive surgery for CVT, over 4 out of 5 survivors reported problems in at least one subdomain of the EQ5D-3 L. Higher age, middle-income country status and preoperative coma were negative predictors of quality of life.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 3","pages":"Article 108549"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145919276","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-04DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108548
Chang-sheng Li MD , Hong-Qiu Gu MD , Kai-xuan Yang MS , Zi-mo Chen MD , Xia Meng MD , Chun-juan Wang MD , Zi-xiao Li MD
Background
Optimal alteplase dosing for intravenous thrombolysis in stroke patients aged >80 years remains debated due to underrepresentation in pivotal trials. This study evaluates the relative effectiveness and safety of low-dose (0.6 mg/kg) versus standard-dose (0.9 mg/kg) alteplase in elderly patients treated within 4.5 hours of onset.
Methods
Utilizing the China Stroke Center Alliance registry database (2018-2022), we conducted a propensity score-matched analysis encompassing 6,522 patients over 80 years of age, ultimately generating 2,050 matched pairs. The primary outcome was functional dependence or death at discharge (mRS 2–6). Secondary measures included major disability (mRS 3–6), in-hospital mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).
Results
The primary outcome showed no statistical difference between low-dose (81.6 %) and standard-dose (81.8 %) groups (OR 0.99; 95 % CI 0.84-1.16; P=0.871). Rates of major disability (56.0 % vs. 57.7 %; OR 1.02; P=0.730), mortality (15.6 % vs. 14.4 %; OR 1.10; P=0.294), and sICH (4.4 % vs. 5.2 %; OR 0.85; P=0.274) were broadly alike. Low-dose alteplase showed a numerical decline in bleeding events. Subgroup analysis found no modifying factors.
Conclusions
In octogenarian stroke patients, low-dose alteplase offers parallel efficacy and safety to standard therapy, with a possible reduction in hemorrhagic complications. These results support low-dose regimens as a reasonable option for elderly patients, particularly when minimizing bleeding risk is a clinical priority.
背景:由于关键试验中代表性不足,80岁中风患者静脉溶栓的最佳阿替普酶剂量仍存在争议。本研究评估了低剂量(0.6 mg/kg)与标准剂量(0.9 mg/kg)阿替普酶在发病4.5小时内治疗的老年患者的相对有效性和安全性。方法:利用中国脑卒中中心联盟注册数据库(2018-2022),对6522例80岁以上患者进行倾向评分匹配分析,最终生成2050对匹配。主要结局是功能依赖或出院时死亡(mRS 2-6)。次要测量包括主要残疾(mRS 3-6)、住院死亡率和症状性颅内出血(siich)。结果:低剂量组(81.6%)与标准剂量组(81.8%)的主要结局无统计学差异(OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.84 ~ 1.16; P=0.871)。主要致残率(56.0% vs. 57.7%; OR 1.02; P=0.730)、死亡率(15.6% vs. 14.4%; OR 1.10; P=0.294)和脑出血(4.4% vs. 5.2%; OR 0.85; P=0.274)大致相似。低剂量阿替普酶显示出血事件的数量下降。亚组分析未发现影响因素。结论:在80多岁的脑卒中患者中,低剂量阿替普酶与标准治疗具有同等的疗效和安全性,并可能减少出血性并发症。这些结果支持低剂量方案作为老年患者的合理选择,特别是当最小化出血风险是临床优先考虑的时候。
{"title":"Outcomes of low-dose versus standard-dose alteplase in acute ischemic stroke patients aged over 80 years: A real-world propensity score-matched study from China","authors":"Chang-sheng Li MD , Hong-Qiu Gu MD , Kai-xuan Yang MS , Zi-mo Chen MD , Xia Meng MD , Chun-juan Wang MD , Zi-xiao Li MD","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108548","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108548","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Optimal alteplase dosing for intravenous thrombolysis in stroke patients aged >80 years remains debated due to underrepresentation in pivotal trials. This study evaluates the relative effectiveness and safety of low-dose (0.6 mg/kg) versus standard-dose (0.9 mg/kg) alteplase in elderly patients treated within 4.5 hours of onset.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Utilizing the China Stroke Center Alliance registry database (2018-2022), we conducted a propensity score-matched analysis encompassing 6,522 patients over 80 years of age, ultimately generating 2,050 matched pairs. The primary outcome was functional dependence or death at discharge (mRS 2–6). Secondary measures included major disability (mRS 3–6), in-hospital mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The primary outcome showed no statistical difference between low-dose (81.6 %) and standard-dose (81.8 %) groups (OR 0.99; 95 % CI 0.84-1.16; P=0.871). Rates of major disability (56.0 % vs. 57.7 %; OR 1.02; P=0.730), mortality (15.6 % vs. 14.4 %; OR 1.10; P=0.294), and sICH (4.4 % vs. 5.2 %; OR 0.85; P=0.274) were broadly alike. Low-dose alteplase showed a numerical decline in bleeding events. Subgroup analysis found no modifying factors.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>In octogenarian stroke patients, low-dose alteplase offers parallel efficacy and safety to standard therapy, with a possible reduction in hemorrhagic complications. These results support low-dose regimens as a reasonable option for elderly patients, particularly when minimizing bleeding risk is a clinical priority.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 3","pages":"Article 108548"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145914651","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-03DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108540
Li Hou , Jing Tang , Lei Zhang , Yanhong Li , Yao Niu
Objective
To evaluate the relationship between the longitudinal changes of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the incidence of cardio-cerebral vascular diseases (CCVD) among individuals with CKM syndrome stages 0-3.
Methods
Utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this longitudinal study included 3,416 participants aged 45 and above. Participants were categorized into different TyG trajectory groups using k-means clustering analysis. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were employed to assess the associations between cumTyG and TyG changes with CCVD incidence.
Results
Over a median follow-up of 5 years, 698 participants developed CCVD. The relationship between cumTyG and CCVD risk was linear in RCS regression. After adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of CCVD was found to be significantly higher for participants in Class 2, Class 4, and Class 5 compared to those in Class 1. Specifically, Class 2 had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.45 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 1.84), Class 4 had an OR of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.09, 1.86), and Class 5 had an OR of 1.64 (95% CI: 1.14, 2.34). Additionally, an elevated cumTyG index was associated with an increased risk of CCVD, with an OR of 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.22, P=0.002).
Conclusion
CumTyG and its longitudinal trend are independent and potent predictors of CCVD in patients with stage 1–3 CKM syndrome. Dynamic monitoring of the TyG trajectory can enable the early identification of high-risk individuals, providing reliable evidence for individualized and cost-effective prevention.
{"title":"Association between cumulative changes of the triglyceride glucose index and incidence of Cardio-cerebral vascular diseases in a population with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome stage 0–3: a nationwide prospective cohort study","authors":"Li Hou , Jing Tang , Lei Zhang , Yanhong Li , Yao Niu","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108540","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108540","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To evaluate the relationship between the longitudinal changes of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the incidence of cardio-cerebral vascular diseases (CCVD) among individuals with CKM syndrome stages 0-3.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this longitudinal study included 3,416 participants aged 45 and above. Participants were categorized into different TyG trajectory groups using k-means clustering analysis. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were employed to assess the associations between cumTyG and TyG changes with CCVD incidence.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Over a median follow-up of 5 years, 698 participants developed CCVD. The relationship between cumTyG and CCVD risk was linear in RCS regression. After adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of CCVD was found to be significantly higher for participants in Class 2, Class 4, and Class 5 compared to those in Class 1. Specifically, Class 2 had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.45 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14, 1.84), Class 4 had an OR of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.09, 1.86), and Class 5 had an OR of 1.64 (95% CI: 1.14, 2.34). Additionally, an elevated cumTyG index was associated with an increased risk of CCVD, with an OR of 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.22, P=0.002).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>CumTyG and its longitudinal trend are independent and potent predictors of CCVD in patients with stage 1–3 CKM syndrome. Dynamic monitoring of the TyG trajectory can enable the early identification of high-risk individuals, providing reliable evidence for individualized and cost-effective prevention.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108540"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145906797","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108543
Sijia Guo , Bo Qu , Qiqi Wang , Yan Sun
Objective
This study employs data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 to analyze the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) of ischemic stroke (IS) attributable to smoking and high alcohol use from 1990 to 2021 across 204 countries and territories, stratified by Socio-demographic Index (SDI), region, sex, and age. Trends are assessed using estimated annual percentage change (EAPC), and future burdens are projected to 2050 using an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model.
Results
Globally, the burden of IS attributable to both risk factors declined, with smoking consistently associated with higher ASMR and ASDR than high alcohol use. High-SDI regions showed the most substantial reductions, whereas low-SDI regions experienced stagnant or slightly increasing burdens. Southeast Asia was the only region with a rising trend in smoking-related IS, while Tropical Latin America achieved remarkable success in alcohol control. The burden was higher among males and older age groups for smoking, and more prominent in young and middle-aged adults for alcohol use. Projections suggested a continuing decline in high-SDI regions but limited improvement in low-SDI areas by 2050.
Conclusion
Significant geographic and demographic disparities persist in the IS burden attributable to smoking and high alcohol use. Targeted policy interventions—especially enhanced tobacco and alcohol control in low- and middle-SDI regions, along with focused strategies for males and high-risk age groups—are urgently needed to reduce the global burden of ischemic stroke.
{"title":"Global and regional burden of ischemic stroke attributable to smoking and high alcohol use from 1990 to 2021, with projections to 2050","authors":"Sijia Guo , Bo Qu , Qiqi Wang , Yan Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108543","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108543","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study employs data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 to analyze the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) of ischemic stroke (IS) attributable to smoking and high alcohol use from 1990 to 2021 across 204 countries and territories, stratified by Socio-demographic Index (SDI), region, sex, and age. Trends are assessed using estimated annual percentage change (EAPC), and future burdens are projected to 2050 using an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Globally, the burden of IS attributable to both risk factors declined, with smoking consistently associated with higher ASMR and ASDR than high alcohol use. High-SDI regions showed the most substantial reductions, whereas low-SDI regions experienced stagnant or slightly increasing burdens. Southeast Asia was the only region with a rising trend in smoking-related IS, while Tropical Latin America achieved remarkable success in alcohol control. The burden was higher among males and older age groups for smoking, and more prominent in young and middle-aged adults for alcohol use. Projections suggested a continuing decline in high-SDI regions but limited improvement in low-SDI areas by 2050.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Significant geographic and demographic disparities persist in the IS burden attributable to smoking and high alcohol use. Targeted policy interventions—especially enhanced tobacco and alcohol control in low- and middle-SDI regions, along with focused strategies for males and high-risk age groups—are urgently needed to reduce the global burden of ischemic stroke.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108543"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145902075","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108545
Leanna M Delhey PhD , Jon Zelner PhD , Xu Shi PhD , Lewis B Morgenstern MD , Devin L Brown MD , Melinda A Smith DrPH , Erin C Case BA , Lynda D Lisabeth PhD
Objective
: Assess associations between destinations near stroke survivor's residence – places like restaurants, recreation centers, and stores that offer opportunities for physical activity and socialization outside of the home and work – and their poststroke outcomes.
Methods
: We included non-Hispanic white and Mexican American incident stroke survivors enrolled in the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi project (2009-19), a population-based cohort in Texas. Exposure: count of destinations within 0.5-miles around survivors’ residences. Outcomes assessed at approximately 3-, 6-, and 12-months poststroke: cognition (Modified Mini-Mental State Examination), functioning (activities of daily living (ADL)/instrumental ADL), health-related quality of life (abbreviated Stroke-Specific Quality of Life scale), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-8). We fit adjusted linear mixed models and considered interactions with follow-up time and stroke severity (NIH stroke scale - mild (<5), moderate-severe (≥5)).
Results
: We included 1,786 survivors who completed 3 (N = 1,321), 6 (N = 677), or 12-month interviews (N = 652). Median age was 64 years, 55% male, and 74% mild stroke. Stroke severity modified associations with functioning (p = 0.09) and quality of life (p = 0.05), follow-up time did not (p > 0.25). Among moderate-severe stroke survivors, more destinations were associated with more favorable functioning (mean difference=-0.12, 95% CI=-0.22, -0.01) and quality of life (mean difference=0.16, 95% CI=0.03, 0.30). No associations were observed among mild stroke survivors or with cognition or depression (p > 0.05).
Interpretation
: Among moderate-severe stroke survivors, more nearby destinations were associated with more favorable functioning and quality of life in the first year. Future research is needed to explore if specific types of destinations may support more favorable outcomes.
{"title":"Access to neighborhood destinations that offer opportunities for physical activity and socialization is associated with favorable post-stroke outcomes","authors":"Leanna M Delhey PhD , Jon Zelner PhD , Xu Shi PhD , Lewis B Morgenstern MD , Devin L Brown MD , Melinda A Smith DrPH , Erin C Case BA , Lynda D Lisabeth PhD","doi":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108545","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108545","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Assess associations between destinations near stroke survivor's residence – places like restaurants, recreation centers, and stores that offer opportunities for physical activity and socialization outside of the home and work – and their poststroke outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><strong>:</strong> We included non-Hispanic white and Mexican American incident stroke survivors enrolled in the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi project (2009-19), a population-based cohort in Texas. Exposure: count of destinations within 0.5-miles around survivors’ residences. Outcomes assessed at approximately 3-, 6-, and 12-months poststroke: cognition (Modified Mini-Mental State Examination), functioning (activities of daily living (ADL)/instrumental ADL), health-related quality of life (abbreviated Stroke-Specific Quality of Life scale), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-8). We fit adjusted linear mixed models and considered interactions with follow-up time and stroke severity (NIH stroke scale - mild (<5), moderate-severe (≥5)).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><strong>:</strong> We included 1,786 survivors who completed 3 (<em>N</em> = 1,321), 6 (<em>N</em> = 677), or 12-month interviews (<em>N</em> = 652). Median age was 64 years, 55% male, and 74% mild stroke. Stroke severity modified associations with functioning (<em>p</em> = 0.09) and quality of life (<em>p</em> = 0.05), follow-up time did not (<em>p</em> > 0.25). Among moderate-severe stroke survivors, more destinations were associated with more favorable functioning (mean difference=-0.12, 95% CI=-0.22, -0.01) and quality of life (mean difference=0.16, 95% CI=0.03, 0.30). No associations were observed among mild stroke survivors or with cognition or depression (<em>p</em> > 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Interpretation</h3><div><strong>:</strong> Among moderate-severe stroke survivors, more nearby destinations were associated with more favorable functioning and quality of life in the first year. Future research is needed to explore if specific types of destinations may support more favorable outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":54368,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases","volume":"35 2","pages":"Article 108545"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145902082","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}