'A problematic plum pit in the piping': a case of traumatic oesophageal perforation.

A 75-year-old man presented to accident and emergency having swallowed a plum pit. He initially experienced sharp neck pain, which was mild at presentation. He was otherwise haemodynamically stable and was able to subsequently eat a sandwich without consequence.

Gastroesophageal and extraesophageal reflux symptoms: similarities and differences.

Objectives/hypothesis: The association between extraesophageal reflux (EER) and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is inadequately understood. We used the Comprehensive Reflux Symptom Scale (CReSS) to evaluate EER and reflux-symptom prevalence in gastroenterology and otolaryngology outpatients and symptom awareness among UK gastroenterologists.

Study Design: Cross-sectional cohort survey.

Extracurricular participation in research and audit by medical students: opportunities, obstacles, motivation and outcomes.

Background: Medical students should learn to critically evaluate research to inform future evidence-based practice. Participation in research and audit at medical school can help develop these skills whilst prompting interest in academic pursuits.

Aims: We investigate medical student attitudes and participation in extracurricular research and audit focusing on their opportunities, obstacles, motivation and outcomes.

The role of extracellular-signal regulate kinase (ERK) in the regulation of airway tone in porcine isolated peripheral bronchioles.

Extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) is known to regulate vascular smooth muscle contraction. However, a role for ERK in airway smooth muscle contraction has yet to be demonstrated conclusively, although contractile agents increase ERK activity in airway smooth muscle. Rather than initiating contraction, ERK could regulate airway tone by interfering with relaxation.