Call to Action: Structural Racism as a Fundamental Driver of Health Disparities: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association

Structural racism has been and remains a fundamental cause of persistent health disparities in the United States. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and multiple others have been reminders that structural racism persists and restricts the opportunities for long, healthy lives of Black Americans and other historically disenfranchised groups. The American Heart Association has previously published statements addressing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk and disparities among racial and ethnic groups in the United States, but these statements have not adequately recognized structural racism as a fundamental cause of poor health and disparities in cardiovascular disease. This presidential advisory reviews the historical context, current state, and potential solutions to address structural racism in our country. Several principles emerge from our review: racism persists; racism is experienced; and the task of dismantling racism must belong to all of society. It cannot be accomplished by affected individuals alone. The path forward requires our commitment to transforming the conditions of historically marginalized communities, improving the quality of housing and neighborhood environments of these populations, advocating for policies that eliminate inequities in access to economic opportunities, quality education, and health care, and enhancing allyship among racial and ethnic groups. Future research on racism must be accelerated and should investigate the joint effects of multiple domains of racism (structural, interpersonal, cultural, anti-Black). The American Heart Association must look internally to correct its own shortcomings and advance antiracist policies and practices regarding science, public and professional education, and advocacy. With this advisory, the American Heart Association declares its unequivocal support of antiracist principles.

Racial disparities in post-stroke functional outcomes in young patients with ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Recent studies show rising incidence of stroke in the young, for which risk factors are not well characterized. There is evidence of increased risk in certain racial and ethnic groups. We assessed racial differences in risk factors, stroke etiology, and outcomes among young stroke patients.

METHODS

Using data from our inpatient registry for ischemic stroke, we reviewed patients aged 18-50 who were admitted 01/2013 to 04/2018. Race/ethnicity were characterized as non-Hispanic White (NHW), non-Hispanic Black (NHB), Hispanic (HIS). For univariate comparisons Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess impact of race on day seven modified Rankin score (mRS).

RESULTS

Among 810 patients with race and outcome data who were admitted in the study period, median age was 43, 57.1% were male, and 36.5% NHW, 43.2% NHB, 20.2% HIS. History of hypertension (HTN), type II diabetes (DM II), smoking, heart failure (CHF), prior stroke, and end-stage renal disease varied significantly by race. Compared to NHW, NHB had higher odds of HTN (OR 2.28, 1.65-3.15), CHF (OR 2.17, 1.06-4.46), and DM II 1.92 (1.25-2.94) while HIS had higher odds of DM II (OR 2.52, 1.55-4.10) and lower odds of smoking (OR 0.56, 0.35-0.90). Arrival NIHSS was higher in NHB, but etiology and rates of tpA treatment and thrombectomy did not vary by race. Compared to NHW patients, NHB (OR 0.50 CI (0.31-0.78)) and HIS (OR 0.37 CI (0.21-0.67)) were less likely to have good functional outcome (mRS <2) at day 7 in adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, there was a higher prevalence of several modifiable risk factors in NHB and HIS young stroke patients and early functional outcome was worse in these groups. Our study suggests a need for targeted prevention efforts for younger populations at highest risk for stroke.

Exercise-Related Acute Cardiovascular Events and Potential Deleterious Adaptations Following Long-Term Exercise Training: Placing the Risks Into Perspective-An Update: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Epidemiological and biological plausibility studies support a cause-and-effect relationship between increased levels of physical activity or cardiorespiratory fitness and reduced coronary heart disease events. These data, plus the well-documented anti-aging effects of exercise, have likely contributed to the escalating numbers of adults who have embraced the notion that "more exercise is better." As a result, worldwide participation in endurance training, competitive long distance endurance events, and high-intensity interval training has increased markedly since the previous American Heart Association statement on exercise risk. On the other hand, vigorous physical activity, particularly when performed by unfit individuals, can acutely increase the risk of sudden cardiac death and acute myocardial infarction in susceptible people. Recent studies have also shown that large exercise volumes and vigorous intensities are both associated with potential cardiac maladaptations, including accelerated coronary artery calcification, exercise-induced cardiac biomarker release, myocardial fibrosis, and atrial fibrillation. The relationship between these maladaptive responses and physical activity often forms a U- or reverse J-shaped dose-response curve. This scientific statement discusses the cardiovascular and health implications for moderate to vigorous physical activity, as well as high-volume, high-intensity exercise regimens, based on current understanding of the associated risks and benefits. The goal is to provide healthcare professionals with updated information to advise patients on appropriate preparticipation screening and the benefits and risks of physical activity or physical exertion in varied environments and during competitive events.

Abstract WMP86: Persistent Gender and Racial Disparities Among Neurology Residents and Vascular Neurology Fellows Over the Past 10 Years

Introduction: Women and minorities are underrepresented in academic medicine. There is little in the literature about gender and racial disparities among neurology or vascular neurology trainees. At the International Stroke Conference, women overall and women physicians have been underrepresented as invited speakers and abstract first authors, and there is recent momentum for improvement.

Methods: Data were collected from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education public website. Dataset included neurology resident and vascular neurology fellow gender data from 2007 to 2017 and race data from 2011 to 2017. Data were analyzed by chi-square test and one-sample proportion test.

Results: From 2007-2017, women represented 45% of all neurology trainees and only 33% of all vascular neurology fellows, both significantly lower than 50% (p<0.0001). There was no trend in the proportion of gender by year for vascular fellows (p=0.11) or neurology trainees (p=0.39). However, each year, except for 2012-2013 and 2015-2016 for vascular fellows, varied significantly by gender where men represented the largest proportion. Race varied by year for vascular fellows (p=0.03) and neurology trainees (p=0.017). Blacks and Hispanics represented the lowest proportions and Whites represented the highest proportion of both vascular and neurology trainees. When comparing Whites vs Non-Whites for both fellows (43% vs 57%; p=0.76) and residents (50% vs 50%; p=0.14), there was no trend in the proportions by year.

Conclusions: Women, Black and Hispanic physicians remain underrepresented as vascular neurology trainees. The low representation of women and underrepresented minorities has not changed in the last decade. Addressing gender and racial disparities among trainees should be a high national priority for future medical and scientific contributions from these groups.

Abstract TMP95: Structured Screening for Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment in the Outpatient Stroke Clinic

Introduction: Cognitive impairment (CI) affects 30% of stroke survivors and impacts ability to return to work, drive and perform ADLs. However, there is no standardized screening for post-stroke CI. We implemented CI screening in the STEP (Stroke Transitions, Education and Prevention) clinic. We sought to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with early post-stroke CI.

Methods: Eligible pts had ischemic stroke, ICH or TIA, were seen in the STEP clinic from March 2017 to June 2018, and included in the prospective outpatient clinical registry. Screening for post-stroke CI was performed with a Brief Neurocognitive Screen (BNS), a validated 5-minute subset of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. BNS 0-8 was defined as abnormal (CI present) and 9-12 was defined as normal. Continuous variables were analyzed with student t-tests or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and categorical variables with Fisher’s exact test. Logistic regression was performed with the significant variables in the univariate analyses.

Results: Of 256 patients, 116 completed a BNS at a median of 35 days after hospital discharge. Median NIHSS was 3 (IQR 0.5,6) and follow-up modified Rankin scale (mRS) was 1 (IQR 1,2). Median BNS was 10 (IQR 9,11). Abnormal BNS, was present in 17.2% of pts screened. Of the 20 pts with abnormal BNS, 17 had neuropsychological testing ordered. In the univariate analysis, age, education, admission NIHSS, poor mRS (<2) at follow-up, and atrial fibrillation were significantly associated with early post-stroke CI (Table 1). In the multivariable analysis, only age and follow-up mRS remained significant.

Conclusion: Early post-stroke CI is common in stroke pts, even with low NIHSS, and associated with older age and worse mRS. The BNS is a post-stroke CI screening tool than can be performed in stroke clinics. Future studies are needed to assess the feasibility of implementing the BNS across multiple sites and outcomes associated with early identification of post-stroke CI.

Abstract 29: Optimization Methodologies to Enhance Endovascular Thrombectomy Access in the United States

Background: Timely access to endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) centers is vital for best stroke outcome. We map current EVT access in the US then utilize modeling to optimize it.

Methods: US designated stroke centers were mapped utilizing geo-mapping and stratified into EVT or non-EVT if they reported ≥1 thrombectomy code for acute ischemic stroke in 2017 to CMS. Direct EVT access, defined as the population with the closest facility to EVT centers, was calculated from validated trauma models adapted for stroke. Current 15 and 30 min access were described nationwide and in 4 states (TX, NY, CA, IL).

Two optimization models were utilized. Model A used a greedy algorithm to capture the largest population with direct access when flipping 10 non-EVT to EVT centers to maximize access. Model B used bypassing methodology to directly transport patients to EVT centers within 15 min from the closest non-EVT center.

Results: Of 1941 stroke centers, 714 were EVT. Approximately 99 million/32% Americans have direct EVT access within 15 min while 111 million (36.0%) within 30 minutes (Fig 1).

There were 65 (43%) EVT centers in TX with 22% current 15 min access. Flipping the top 10 population density hospitals improved access to 32%, while bypassing resulted in 46% having direct access to EVT centers (fig 2 A-B). Direct access in CA was 26% which improved to 35% with flipping and 54% by 15 min bypassing from the closest non-EVT to EVT centers. Similar results were found in NY (current 21%, flipping 39%, bypassing 50%) and IL (15%, 27% and 35%, respectively), Tab 1.

Conclusion: EVT access within 15 min is limited to less than 1/3 of the US population. Optimization methodology that increase EVT centers or bypass non-EVT to the closest EVT center both showed enhanced access. Results varied by states based on the population size and density. However, bypass showed more potential for maximizing direct EVT access. National and state efforts should focus on identifying gaps and tailoring solutions to improve EVT access.

Abstract WP468: Follow Up After Stroke, Screening and Treatment Clinic: Advancing Post-Stroke Care

Objective: To assess feasibility and replicability of a multidisciplinary, specialized clinic in optimization of secondary stroke prevention and stroke related complications.

Background: Recommendations exist for secondary stroke prevention, but it is unclear which outpatient model of care optimizes vascular risk factor control and decreases post-stroke complications most effectively. Designed after the Stroke Transitions, Education, and Prevention clinic in Houston, TX, the Follow up After Stroke, Screening and Treatment (FASST) clinic is an integrated, multidisciplinary, specialized clinic designed to optimize secondary stroke prevention. It provides post discharge stroke education and medication adherence counseling by Pharmacists, as well risk factor and complications management by Vascular Neurologists. Validated patient reported surveys screen for complications: depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, cognitive impairment, disability, social support, quality of life and functional status. Our approach and the characteristics of patients enrolled in the clinic is described.

Methods: Patients attending one FASST clinic visit are included. Institutional Board Review approved consent is obtained. Demographic and clinical data are recorded including risk factors, surveys and outcome scores. Data is entered in Redcap and analyzed through the Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) program.

Results: Of the 25 patients enrolled in the clinic, 83.3% are African American. A high prevalence of hyperlipidemia (100%) and hypertension (100%) exists, with 44% of patients having concomitant diabetes mellitus. Overall 26.7% screened positive for depression with PHQ-9, and 20% screened positive for anxiety with GAD-7. These patients were started on medications and referred for psychotherapy. Abnormal ESS scores were noted in 31.3% and directed for sleep apnea evaluation. Eighteen medical and pharmacy trainees rotated through the clinic.

Conclusion: The FASST clinic represents a reproducible model for an integrated approach to post-stroke care. Adapted to academic centers across the country, a collaborative network would provide best practices, and measure patient reported outcomes to optimize stroke care.

Abstract TP398: Comparable Internet Access And Usage Among Stroke Survivors And Informal Caregivers

Background and Purpose: Web-based interventions have shown promise as a cost-effective and convenient delivery platform for supporting chronic disease self-management. However, studies suggest that web-based interventions are not widely available. The purpose of this study was to describe access and usage of web-based electronics in a cohort of stroke survivors (SS) and their informal caregivers (IC).

Methods: A 14-question electronic usage survey was created with input from experts in neurology, nursing and bioinformatics. Two urban sites recruited participants from inpatient stroke centers, outpatient stroke clinics and stroke support groups. Surveys were completed in person or via telephone. Descriptive data were generated to evaluate internet access and usage.

Results: Data were analyzed from 251 SS and 127 IC. Participants were primarily recruited from outpatient settings, with inpatient recruits constituting 15%. Internet users were on average 8 years younger than non-users in both groups. African Americans constituted a third in each group and 1 out of 8 were Hispanic. Compared to an estimate that 89% of American adults have internet access, 200 (81%) SS (p < .001) and 123 (97%) IC (p = .005) had internet access.

Conclusions: In our diverse cohort of relatively young SS, we found IC had more internet access than SS, and more so than the general population. This study is an important step towards delineating the potential use of web-based environments as a platform for interventions to improve stroke risk factor management and stroke recovery.

Abstract 163: Recognizing Sex Disparities Among Invited Speakers at the International Stroke Conference Motivates Change

Introduction: Females were significantly underrepresented as invited speakers at the International Stroke Conference (ISC) from 2014-2018. In 2019, there were increased efforts by the ISC program committee to recruit female speakers. Other efforts to increase female participation at the 2019 ISC included a session for women’s issues in stroke and a women’s luncheon.

Methods: ISC invited speaker data were obtained (years 2014-2019) from the American Heart Association. Variables included sex, degree, race, speaker institution country, session type and category. Data were analyzed by Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test or logistic regression models.

Results: From 2014-2018, females represented 28% of ISC invited speakers, and in 2019 the proportion of females rose to 47%. Females represented 38% of physician speakers in 2019 as compared to 18% from 2014-2018. For Black speakers, in 2019 females represented the majority (64%), increased from 2014-2018 (17%). For Hispanic speakers, females remained one of the lowest proportions, but with an increase from 12% to 39%. Females represented the highest and lowest proportion of speakers from South America (100%) and Africa (0%) and the largest in invited symposium (48%), similar to 2014-2018. The odds of being invited for debate as a female increased in 2019 (OR 0.67 vs 0.37, p=0.36), but this did not reach significance. Females represented the largest proportion of speakers in recovery and rehabilitation (52%) in 2019, similar to 2014-2018. Females had higher odds of being invited as a speaker in the acute, in-hospital care category (OR 0.83 vs 0.53, p=0.22), but this did not reach significance. Females were more often invited as speakers more than once in 2019 (OR 0.94 vs 0.61, p=0.29).

Conclusions: There is potential to increase female participation at major scientific conferences through initiatives by the program committee. Identifying gender disparities at a major conference like the ISC may help to close the gender gap.

A Retrospective Study to Identify Novel Factors Associated with Post-stroke Anxiety

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Post-stroke anxiety (PSA) is common and disabling. PSA should be considered as an important outcome in stroke. However, there is a lack of understanding of factors that may be linked to PSA. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of PSA and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with PSA in a cohort of racially and ethnically diverse stroke patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients seen in a stroke outpatient clinic from August 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018. Patients were eligible if a Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item (GAD-7) instrument was available. GAD-7 scores greater than or equal to 10 indicated the presence of moderate to severe PSA. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with PSA.

RESULTS

Records from 289 stroke patients with a GAD-7 instrument were analyzed. PSA was common (21%; GAD-7 ≥ 10). Fifty-seven percent of females had a GAD-7 greater than or equal to 10 compared to 41% of females who had a GAD-7 less than 10 (P = .03). Multivariable analysis found that self-reported nonmarried status (odds ratio, 3.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.44-7.44), excessive fatigue (odds ratio, 4.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.87-10.63), and depression (odds ratio, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-1.33) were independently associated with PSA.

CONCLUSIONS

PSA may occur more frequently in those who report non-married, excessive fatigue, or depression. Trials of PSA interventions should consider the potential impact of social support, depression, and comorbid conditions contributing to post-stroke fatigue, including sleep apnea.

The pleiotropy associated with de novo variants in CHD4, CNOT3, and SETD5 extends to moyamoya angiopathy

PURPOSE

Moyamoya angiopathy (MMA) is a cerebrovascular disease characterized by occlusion of large arteries, which leads to strokes starting in childhood. Twelve altered genes predispose to MMA but the majority of cases of European descent do not have an identified genetic trigger.

METHODS

Exome sequencing from 39 trios were analyzed.

RESULTS

We identified four de novo variants in three genes not previously associated with MMA: CHD4, CNOT3, and SETD5. Identification of additional rare variants in these genes in 158 unrelated MMA probands provided further support that rare pathogenic variants in CHD4 and CNOT3 predispose to MMA. Previous studies identified de novo variants in these genes in children with developmental disorders (DD), intellectual disability, and congenital heart disease.

CONCLUSION

These genes encode proteins involved in chromatin remodeling, and taken together with previously reported genes leading to MMA-like cerebrovascular occlusive disease (YY1AP1, SMARCAL1), implicate disrupted chromatin remodeling as a molecular pathway predisposing to early onset, large artery occlusive cerebrovascular disease. Furthermore, these data expand the spectrum of phenotypic pleiotropy due to alterations of CHD4, CNOT3, and SETD5 beyond DD to later onset disease in the cerebrovascular arteries and emphasize the need to assess clinical complications into adulthood for genes associated with DD.

Does care in a specialised stroke prevention clinic improve poststroke blood pressure control: a protocol for a randomised comparative effectiveness study

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a major risk factor for recurrent stroke, and blood pressure (BP) reduction is associated with decreased risk of stroke recurrence. However, many stroke survivors have poorly controlled BP after their initial stroke. The Stroke Transitions Education and Prevention (STEP) Clinic was established to provide a comprehensive approach to stroke risk factor reduction.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This randomised comparative effectiveness study was designed to assess the impact of care in the STEP clinic versus usual care on poststroke BP reduction. Eligible hospitalised patients with ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke or transient ischaemic attack are scheduled for a clinic screening visit within 4 weeks of discharge if they meet baseline inclusion criteria. At the clinic visit, patients who have uncontrolled BP, defined as automated office BP ≥135/85 mm Hg are randomised (1:1) to either the STEP clinic or usual care for management. STEP clinic patients receive instructions to self-monitor, a BP monitor, sleep apnoea screening, dietary counselling, review of BP monitoring records and adjustment of medications. Patients are followed by a neurologist and a stroke-trained nurse practitioner. Usual care participants are seen by a neurologist and recommendations for secondary prevention are sent to primary care providers. The primary outcome is the difference in mean daytime ambulatory systolic BP at 6 months, assessed using linear regression analysis. Secondary outcomes include 24 hours ambulatory BP, medication adherence and medication self-efficacy, and composite cardiovascular events.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Boards at the McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center and the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Uninsured and Spanish-speaking patients are included in the study.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02591394; Pre-results.

Abstract NS7: Identifying and Understanding Factors Associated with Post-Stroke Anxiety

Background and Purpose: Prior data indicate that the profile of stroke survivors differs from those with anxiety in the absence of other clinical comorbidities. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of PSA and to understand factors associated with PSA in a cohort of stroke survivors.

Methods: A retrospective study (August 2017-May 2018) of electronic health records from 194 ischemic stroke survivors were examined. Stroke survivors were screened for PSA using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item (GAD-7; range 0-21) scale two to eight weeks post-hospitalization for stroke during a stroke clinic visit. GAD-7 scores ≥ 10 indicated moderate to severe anxiety. Examples of factors examined included medical, social, stroke severity, excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale; ESS), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9; PHQ-9). Univariable analysis were used to determine significance (p < 0.05). T-tests were used for continuous variables and the chi-square test for categorical variables.

Results: Twenty-five percent of stroke survivors had a GAD-7 score ≥ 10 and significantly higher mean ESS (11 ± 5) and PHQ-9 (13 ± 6) scores (p<.0001) indicating co-morbid symptoms. Although not significantly different in this sample size, 32% of women had a GAD-7 score ≥ 10 compared to 21% men (p = .05). Stroke survivors with moderate to severe anxiety were more likely to be single, divorced, or widowed (p = 0.0006).

Conclusions: PSA is common after ischemic stroke and may occur more frequently in women and those who are single, divorced, or widowed. Post-stroke trials of psychological interventions should consider PSA and its relationship to excessive daytime sleepiness and depression as well as treatment approaches for concurrent co-morbid conditions.

Abstract WP363: Females are Significantly Less Likely to be Invited as Speakers to the International Stroke Conference: Time’s Up to Address Sex Disparity

Introduction: Females are underrepresented as speakers at major scientific conferences. Furthermore, in neurology, males outnumber females in academic positions, rank and number of publications, which may influence this inequality.

Objective: To evaluate trends in invited speakers by sex at the International Stroke Conference (ISC).

Methods: Data were obtained (years 2014-2018) for invited speakers to the ISC from the American Heart Association. Variables included sex, degree, race, speaker institution country, and speaker category. Data were analyzed by chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, or logistic regression.

Results: Over 5 years, 1086 individuals with 1283 presentations were invited for invited symposia (83%), pre-conference (11%), debate (5%), and case theater (1%). Females represented a mean of 29% of speakers, which did not vary by year (p=0.99), so years were combined. The highest and lowest proportions of females were in invited symposia (30.4%) and case theater (5.6%). All mid-levels and nurses, but only 17.7% of physician speakers were female. Females were 32.7% of Caucasian speakers and only 16.7% and 12.0% of Black and Hispanic speakers, respectively. The highest and lowest proportions of female speakers were from institutions in South America (50%) and Africa (0%). The proportion of female speakers was highest in nursing (86.4%) and pediatric stroke (45.2%) and lowest in neurocritical care and aneurysm (0%). Grouped, the highest proportion of female speakers was in recovery and rehabilitation (33.5%), and the lowest was in acute care (19%). Males were more likely invited as speakers more than once (p=0.01).

Conclusions: Females are less likely invited speakers to the ISC compared to males, especially in fields like critical care, with a smaller female pool. Moreover, females in underrepresented racial groups and female physicians are less often speakers. Increased efforts are warranted to improve sex differences among speakers at the ISC.

Abstract TP347: The Stroke Transitions Education and Prevention (STEP) Clinic: A Learning Healthcare Model for Post-Stroke Care

Background and Purpose: The STEP clinic was established to provide post-acute care for stroke patients. In this learning healthcare model, optimization of processes is enriched by evaluation of patient outcomes and patient and provider feedback. Trainee education and clinical trial recruitment are key. We describe the approach, patient population, and outcomes.

Methods: STEP patients are assessed by a multidisciplinary care team within 6 weeks post-hospitalization. Patients complete depression, fatigue, and sleep apnea questionnaires. The team develops a personalized treatment and follow-up plan and provides risk factor counseling and education. We obtained data from the STEP clinical registry for patients enrolled from 10/2014 to 05/2017.

Results: Among 605 enrolled patients following up at median of 47 days, 55% were male, mean age was 62.2 (SD 14.3), and stroke types included 76% ischemic/transient ischemic attack and 20% intracerebral hemorrhage. By race, 45% were non-Hispanic white, 27% non-Hispanic black, 19% Hispanic, and 3% Asian. Initial blood pressure (BP) was controlled for 66% (<140/90 mmHg) with medications adjusted for 9%. BP control was maintained at 67% among assessed patients. Of 91% completing a depression screen, 24% had at least moderate depression, and 22% were maintained or initiated on an antidepressant. Of 92% patients completing an epworth sleepiness scale, 36% scored >9 (abnormal), and 27% were sent for a sleep study. A total of 38 trainees rotated through the clinic and 91 patients were enrolled in studies. Four novel trials, 3 randomized clinical trials and 1 observational study, were derived from the clinic.

Conclusions: The STEP clinic represents a learning healthcare model for post-stroke care. Learning healthcare models for post-stroke care are feasible and may be an effective approach to secondary and tertiary prevention.

Abstract TP349: Submitted and Accepted Abstracts by Sex at the International Stroke Conference: Analysis of Trends From 2014-2018

Introduction: Males have higher numbers of publications than females across many medical specialties. Little is known about female involvement in stroke research, especially conference-related science.

Objective: To evaluate sex differences among authors of abstracts at the International Stroke Conference (ISC).

Methods: Data were obtained (2014-2018) for first authors of submitted and accepted ISC abstracts from the American Heart Association. Variables included sex, career classification, career level, institution country, abstract category and type. Data were analyzed by chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, or logistic regression.

Results: Authors submitted 8532 abstracts (36.9% female), and 6135 abstracts were accepted (36.5% female). There was no difference in submitted abstracts by sex and year (p=0.3), so years were combined. There was no sex difference in the proportion of accepted abstracts (female vs male: 71.7% vs 73.0%, p=0.2). Nurses with accepted abstracts were most likely female (93.2%), and physicians were least likely (27.4%). By career level, the highest proportion of females with accepted abstracts was students/trainees (40.7%), and by institution continent, the highest and lowest proportions were from South America (56.7%) and Asia (19.9%). Females presented 91.5% of abstracts in nursing, 56.3% in clinical rehabilitation and recovery (next highest), and 18.0% in acute endovascular (lowest). The odds of being a female author was 1.82 (95% CI 1.62-2.05) in rehabilitation and recovery and 1.18 (95% CI 1.01-1.39) in basic science as compared to acute care. There was no sex difference in abstract presentation type (p=0.3).

Conclusions: Females are underrepresented among ISC abstract first authors, especially among physicians and for acute, in-hospital stroke research, fields in which males may be overrepresented. This suggests the need for further efforts to increase the participation of females in stroke research.

Abstract WP489: Evaluation of Post-discharge Callback Data from Stroke Patients and Caregivers

Background and Purpose: The early period after hospital discharge is a critical time for stroke patients during which transitions of care can be optimized. In our Comprehensive Stroke Center, patients are called within 3 days of discharge to conduct point of service feedback utilizing yes/no and open-ended questions related to the hospital stay, discharge instructions, follow-up care, and prescriptions. We sought to examine post-discharge feedback to identify areas of need.

Methods: A multidisciplinary team collaborated to classify callback responses for patients discharged from 1/1/2018 to 6/30/2018 within the following domains from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey: care from doctors, care from nurses, hospital environment, experience in the hospital, and transitions of care. We provide a descriptive analysis (Table 1).

Results: Among 700 patients discharged in the study period, 378 (54%) were discharged home and 207 (55%) of these were contacted for feedback. Eighty four (40.5%) of patients/caregivers expressed at least one concern (129 total), with the largest proportion in the transitions of care domain (67.4 %). Patients reported difficulties with prescriptions (15.5%), obtaining outpatient therapy services (13.2%) and follow-up appointments (10.9%), new or persistent clinical symptoms (8.5%), and insufficient hospital discharge education (5.4%). Approximately 5% (11/207) of all patients reported hospital readmission during the call.

Conclusions: This study reveals that stroke patients and caregivers identify transitional care as an area for improvement following discharge from a CSC. Interventions aimed at facilitating care from hospital to home after stroke are warranted, and we are implementing patient-centered initiatives to enhance the discharge process and provide additional support early after stroke discharge.

Abstract TP462: Recruitment of African Americans in Blood Pressure Reduction Trials for Secondary Stroke Prevention

Background and Purpose: Reductions in blood pressure (BP) after stroke are associated with dramatic reductions in stroke risk. African Americans (AA) have higher risk of recurrent stroke than Whites and higher rates of uncontrolled BP after stroke. Prior studies have shown under-representation of minorities in secondary prevention trials. We identified studies of BP control for secondary stroke prevention and explored minority representation in the trials.

Methods: Relevant MeSH headings were used to conduct a PubMed search of randomized trials for secondary prevention of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and TIA, focused on BP reduction. We included studies published 1998 to 2018 that included participants from the US. We categorized articles according to timing post stroke, stroke type, intervention type, race/ethnic distribution, and mentioned efforts to increase minority proportions.

Results: Of 703 abstracts identified from PubMed, 42 studies were retained, and 8 met criteria after manuscript review. Six were US based and 2 international. All included ischemic stroke and/ or TIA patients. None focused on hemorrhagic stroke. Six trials included behavioral modification as a component of the intervention. Enrollment period ranged from 0 to 180 days post-stroke. For US based studies, 5 reported AA race (race reporting complete for 3 studies). The proportion of AA participants ranged from 8.4% to 41.5% Three studies recruited from diverse populations. There was no specific mention of oversampling of AAs in any trial.

Conclusion: Despite strong data to support BP reduction after stroke, there is a lack of US-based studies for secondary stroke prevention. More studies of BP control interventions to test medications and behavioral strategies for secondary stroke prevention in diverse patient populations are urgently needed.

High in-hospital blood pressure variability and severe disability or death in primary intracerebral hemorrhage patients

OBJECTIVE

To quantify in-hospital systolic blood pressure variability among patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, determine the association between high systolic blood pressure variability (HSBPV) and 90-day severe disability or death, and examine the association between pre-hospital factors and HSBPV.

METHODS

Adult, radiologically confirmed, intracerebral hemorrhage patients enrolled in a multi-site cohort were included. Using a semi-automated algorithm, systolic blood pressure values recorded from routine non-invasive systolic blood pressure monitoring in critical and acute care settings were extracted for the duration of hospitalization. Inter and intra-patient systolic blood pressure variability was quantified using generalized estimating equation methods. Modified Poisson and logistic regression models were fit to determine the association between HSBPV and 90-day severe disability or death and between pre-hospital characteristics and HSBPV, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 566 patients managed at four certified stroke centers were included. Over 120,000 systolic blood pressure readings were analyzed, and a standard deviation (SD) of 13.0 was parameterized as a cut-off point to categorize HSBPV. Patients with HSBPV had a greater risk of 90-day severe disability or death (relative risk: 1.20, 95% confidence interval: 1.04-1.39), after controlling for age, pre-morbid functional status, and other disease severity measures. Greater likelihood of in-hospital HSBPV was independently observed in elderly, female patients, and in patients with high admission systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

Quantification of HSBPV is feasible utilizing routinely collected systolic blood pressure readings, and a singular cut-off parameter for systolic blood pressure variability demonstrated association with 90-day severe disability or death. Elderly, female, and patients with high admission systolic blood pressure may be more likely to demonstrate HSBPV during hospitalization.

Abstract 026: High In-Hospital Systolic Blood Pressure Variability and Poor Functional Outcomes in Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients

Introduction: High in-hospital SBP variability (HSBPV) is an emerging marker for poor outcomes among Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH) patients. We aimed to determine the risk of severe disability or death (SDD) at day-90 among ICH patients with HSPBV and explore pre-hospital factors associated with HSPBV.

Methods: Adult, radiologically confirmed primary ICH patients were prospectively enrolled and followed-up until day-90. All routinely collected SBP values were recorded for the inpatient stay. Inter and intra-patient SBPV was quantified using generalized estimating equations. Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) Score of 4 - 6 was defined as SDD. Poisson and logistic regression models were fit to determine the risk of day-90 SDD, and the association of pre-hospital characteristics with HSBPV.

Results: A total of 566 patients [mean age: 63.5, females 36.6% (207 of 566)] were included. Total in-hospital follow-up period was 4,908 days [median (IQR) per patient = 8.7 (3-11)]. Over 120,500 SBP readings were analyzed. Inter and intra-patient mean SBP standard deviation (SD) was 11.1 and 13.2, respectively. A SD of 13.0 was parameterized as a cut-off for HSBPV. HSBPV patients had a 17% higher adjusted risk of day-90 SDD (Relative Risk, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.02-1.35) (Table). Older age and female sex were independently associated with HSBPV after controlling for hemorrhage volume, pre-morbid mRS, and Glasgow Coma Scale (Figure).

Conclusion: Quantification of HSBPV is feasible utilizing routinely collected SBP readings. HSBPV is associated with poor outcomes. Elderly and female patients may be more likely to demonstrate HSBPV during hospitalization.

Biochemical markers of striatal desensitization in cortical-limbic hyperglutamatergic TS- & OCD-like transgenic mice

Tics and compulsions in comorbid Tourette's syndrome (TS) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are associated with chronic hyperactivity of parallel cortico/amygdalo-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) loop circuits. Comorbid TS- & OCD-like behaviors have likewise been observed in D1CT-7 mice, in which an artificial neuropotentiating transgene encoding the cAMP-elevating intracellular subunit of cholera toxin (CT) is chronically expressed selectively in somatosensory cortical & amygdalar dopamine (DA) D1 receptor-expressing neurons that activate cortico/amygdalo-striatal glutamate (GLU) output. We've now examined in D1CT-7 mice whether the chronic GLU output from their potentiated cortical/limbic CSTC subcircuit afferents associated with TS- & OCD-like behaviors elicits desensitizing neurochemical changes in the striatum (STR). Microdialysis-capillary electrophoresis and in situ hybridization reveal that the mice's chronic GLU-excited STR exhibits pharmacodynamic changes in three independently GLU-regulated measures of output neuron activation, co-excitation, and desensitization, signifying hyperactive striatal CSTC output and compensatory striatal glial and neuronal desensitization: 1) Striatal GABA, an output neurotransmitter induced by afferent GLU, is increased. 2) Striatal d-serine, a glial excitatory co-transmitter inhibited by afferent GLU, is decreased. 3) Striatal Period1 (Per1), which plays a non-circadian role in the STR as a GLU + DA D1- (cAMP-) dependent repressor thought to feedback-inhibit GLU + DA- triggered ultradian urges and motions, is transcriptionally abolished. These data imply that chronic cortical/limbic GLU excitation of the STR desensitizes its co-excitatory d-serine & DA inputs while freezing its GABA output in an active state to mediate chronic tics and compulsions - possibly in part by abolishing striatal Per1-dependent ultradian extinction of urges and motions.

Abstract 92: Endovascular Thrombectomy Access in the United States: the Current Status and an Optimization Model

Background: Endovascular therapy (EVT) is established for acute ischemic strokes (AIS) with large vessel occlusion (LVO). Timely direct access to EVT-capable centers is integral for EVT utilization and success. We describe and map current EVT access then utilize modeling to optimize it.

Methods: US designated stroke centers were identified and mapped utilizing geo-mapping. Centers were stratified into EVT or non-EVT if they reported ≥1 thrombectomy code for AIS in 2016 to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service. Ground and air transportation times (30, 60 and 90 min) to EVT centers were calculated from validated trauma models previously adapted for stroke. An optimization model utilizing a greedy algorithm was employed to maximize population ground access within 60 min, as the standard “golden hour” for patients. Ground transport was utilized over air given current transport practices for stroke. A second optimization was done for 30 minutes to give LVOs the best chance to be taken directly to EVT centers, increasing probability of good outcomes.

Results: 1645 stroke centers were identified (577 were EVT capable). Approximately 137 million/44%, 195 million/63%, 234 million/76% Americans had 30, 60 and 90 min EVT ground access ; leaving 37% of the population beyond 60 min driving distance to EVT centers. 172 million/56%, 268 million/87%, 296 million/96% of the Americans have air access within 30, 60 and 90 mins. 50 hospitals were identified for “flipping” from non-EVT to EVT, which improved 60 min ground access from 63% to 71% giving access to almost 20 million more Americans. 50 hospitals were flipped to improve the 30 min ground access from 44% to 49%, increasing the coverage by 15 million. Figure 1 shows the current and optimized EVT access map.

Conclusion: Only 2/3 of the US population has direct access to EVT within an hour. State and national Efforts should focus on improving access and shorten times to EVT to give patients the best chance for excellent outcome after large strokes.

Abstract TP278: Decade-Long Trends in Recanalization Therapy at a Large Regional Comprehensive Stroke Center in Texas

Introduction: Recanalization therapy (RT) is the cornerstone of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management. We present 10-year trend in RT at our center, and explore effects of increasing telemedicine (TM) access and a Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU).

Methods: We identified suspected AIS patients between 01/01/2007-12/31/2016 from our prospectively managed registry. Patients presented directly (DP), were transferred-in (TP) from a regional referring hospital with or without TM consultation, or via the MSU. Pre-established TM/MSU period was from 01/01/2007-12/31/2011. We used logistic regression to explore temporal trends among patient groups, report odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals, and quantile regression to determine the difference in median (DIM) treatment times.

Results: We reviewed 9,464 suspected AIS cases. 44.8% were in pre-TM/MSU and 55.2% TM/MSU period. Over 10 years, the proportion of DP has significantly reduced [OR 0.84 (0.83-0.86)], whereas non-TM TP has increased [OR 1.05 (1.03-1.06)]. In TM/MSU period, the proportion of TM patients has significantly increased each year [OR 2.00 (1.85-2.16)]. Fig. 1 shows the proportional distribution. 29.3% of patients were treated with tPA; significantly higher during the TM/MSU period compared to pre-TM/MSU [(31.5% vs 21.5%, OR 1.21 (1.11 - 1.33)]. Median onset to needle time was significantly shorter for the TM/MSU period [140(99-193) vs 157(119-198), DIM -17(-10.7,-23.2)], as was the proportion of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) [(1.7% vs 4.2%), OR 0.40(0.25-0.64)]. With each increasing year, a significantly greater proportion of patients were discharged home after controlling for age and NIHSS [OR 1.12 (1.10-1.14)].

Conclusion: Over a decade, we saw a steady increase in proportion of tPA treated cases. With the introduction of TM and the MSU at our institution, more AIS patients received RT, with faster onset to treatment, fewer sICH complications, and improved discharge disposition.