3D-electroanatomical mapping of the left atrium and catheter-based pulmonary vein isolation in pigs: A practical guide.

Aim: To propose a standardized workflow for 3D-electroanatomical mapping guided pulmonary vein isolation in pigs.

Materials And Methods: Danish female landrace pigs were anaesthetized. Ultrasound-guided puncture of both femoral veins was performed and arterial access for blood pressure measurement established.

Pharmacological inhibition of SK-channels with AP14145 prevents atrial arrhythmogenic changes in a porcine model for obstructive respiratory events.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) creates a complex substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF), which is refractory to many clinically available pharmacological interventions. We investigated atrial antiarrhythmogenic properties and ventricular electrophysiological safety of small-conductance Ca -activated K (SK)-channel inhibition in a porcine model for obstructive respiratory events.

Methods: In spontaneously breathing pigs, obstructive respiratory events were simulated by intermittent negative upper airway pressure (INAP) applied via a pressure device connected to the intubation tube.

Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities in Atrial Fibrillation in Relationship to Alcohol Use and Abuse.

Excessive drinking has detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system. Atrial fibrillation (AF) after alcohol binge drinking, also named "holiday heart syndrome," is well established. However, chronic lower levels of alcohol intake also may increase AF risk.

Pharmacological inhibition of acetylcholine-regulated potassium current ( ) prevents atrial arrhythmogenic changes in a rat model of repetitive obstructive respiratory events.

Background: In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), intermittent hypoxemia and intrathoracic pressure fluctuations may increase atrial fibrillation (AF) susceptibility by cholinergic activation.

Objective: To investigate short-term atrial electrophysiological consequences of obstructive respiratory events, simulated by intermittent negative upper airway pressure (INAP), and the role of atrial acetylcholine-regulated potassium current ( ) activated by the M receptor.

Methods: In sedated (2% isoflurane), spontaneously breathing rats, INAP was applied noninvasively by a negative pressure device for 1 minute, followed by a resting period of 4 minutes.