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Objective: This study was aimed to assess mechanisms underlying continuous training induced atrial fibrillation (AF) in an animal model., Methods: Healthy New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups ( n =12 each): control group (C), moderate intensity group (M), and high intensity group (H). The intensity of continuous training was adjusted according to the treadmill speed. After 12 weeks of training, with a Langendorff perfusion system, AF was induced by S1S2 stimulation and the incidence was recorded. Changes in atrial kir 2.1, kir 2.2, type Ⅰ and Ⅲ collagen protein mRNA expressions were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. Masson staining was used to assess the extracellular collagen volume fraction (CVF) ., Results: After 12 weeks, comparing with group C, groups M and H had greater ( P <0.05): CVF, incidence of AF ( P <0.05, also between Groups H and M), and atrial inward rectifier potassium current/channel (IK 1 ) . In Group H, kir 2.1, kir 2.2, type Ⅰ and Ⅲ collagen protein mRNA expressions in the left atrium were increased ( P <0.05, compared with Groups C and M)., Conclusion: Long-term and high-intensity treadmill running could increase AF incidence in rabbits., (Copyright© by Editorial Board of Journal of Sichuan University (Medical Science Edition).)

Objective: To summarize the technique and therapeutic effect of free posterior tibial artery perforator (PTP) flap for skin defect on the dorsum of hand or foot., Methods: The lower leg was divided into 6 sections equally from the level of tibial tuberosity to the connection of medial and lateral malleolus. The free PTP flap was designed along the inner edge of tibia within the proximal section 2 and 3. The flap was harvested with 2-3 bundles of the saphenous nerve included. The size of skin defects on the dorsum of hand or foot ranged from 3.0 cm x 7.5 cm to 6.0 cm x 12.0 cm., Results: From Jan. 2009 to Dec. 2010, 11 cases were treated with free PTP flaps. All the flaps survived completely. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 10 months. The flaps had good color and texture. Two point discrimination recovered to 7-10 mm, leaving linear scar at the donor site. The appearance and function of the hand or foot was satisfactory., Conclusions: The free PTP flap is thin with good sensation, leaving less morbidity at donor site. The posterior tibial artery can be reserved. It is an ideal method for skin defect on the dorsum of hand or foot.

Objective: To report the experience of the surgical treatment of congenital heart diseases (CHD) in pediatric patients with body weight less than 10 kg., Methods: Between January 2000 and December 2007, 105 children with CHD, aged 2 months to 3 years and weighing between 3.5 to 10 kg, underwent surgical treatment. Of the 105 patients, 56 were concomitant with moderate to severe pulmonary hypertension or repeated pulmonary infections, and 35 with complex cardiac abnormalities. Operations were performed through median sternotomy with moderate hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass in 88 cases, with normothermic extracorporeal circulation on beating heart in 14 cases, and with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in 3 cases., Results: There were 5 early deaths (4.8%). During a follow-up of 2 month to 3 year, 97 survivors with corrective procedure had no late mortality or complications with NYHA class I of cardiac function, excepting 2 cases with little residual shunt. Three survivors with palliative procedure enjoyed higher quality of life., Conclusions: The surgical treatment of CHD in pediatric patients with body weight less than 10 kg seems to be feasible and safe, with satisfactory early and long-term results.