Rare synchronous caecal and sigmoid volvulus: management of two cases.

Colonic volvulus is one of leading causes of large bowel obstruction following colorectal cancer and diverticulitis, accounting for 5% of cases. Sigmoid volvulus is most common (75%) followed by volvulus of the caecum (15%), transverse colon (3%) and splenic flexure (2%). Synchronous volvulus of the caecum and sigmoid is very rare, with six reported cases in the literature to the best of our knowledge.

BET 2: Does topical lidocaine improve oral intake in children with painful mouth ulcers?

A shortcut review was carried out to establish whether topical lidocaine was effective at reducing pain and improving oral intake in children with painful oral lesions. 34 papers were found using the reported searches, of which two presented the best available evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these two papers are tabulated.

BET 1: Does inhaled tranexamic acid reduce morbidity in adults with haemoptysis?

A short cut review was carried out to establish whether inhaled tranexamic acid is more effective than placebo at controlling bleeding in patients with haemoptysis. Thirty-four papers were found using the reported searches, of which one presented the best available evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of this paper is tabulated.

Regression-based approach for testing the association between multi-region haplotype configuration and complex trait.

Background: It is quite common that the genetic architecture of complex traits involves many genes and their interactions. Therefore, dealing with multiple unlinked genomic regions simultaneously is desirable.

Results: In this paper we develop a regression-based approach to assess the interactions of haplotypes that belong to different unlinked regions, and we use score statistics to test the null hypothesis of non-genetic association.

Earthquake science research with a microsatellite.

Reliable, repeatable earthquake forecast is a subject surrounded by controversy and scepticism. What is clear is that reliable forecast would be a critical tool for effective earthquake disaster management. It is proposed that satellites and ground-based facilities may detect earthquake precursors in the ionosphere a few hours or days before the main shock.