Use of beta-blockers and risk of serious upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a population-based case-control study.

Background: Some studies indicate a reduced risk of serious upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) for users of beta-blockers, but the association remains to be confirmed in larger studies and characterized with respect to differences among beta-blockers. We aimed to assess whether beta-blocker use decreases the risk of UGIB.

Methods: We conducted a register-based, population-based case-control study in Denmark.

Auscultatory versus oscillometric measurement of blood pressure in octogenarians.

Background: Auscultatory measurement using a sphygmomanometer has been the predominant method for clinical estimation of blood pressure, but it is now rapidly being replaced by oscillometric measurement.

Objective: To compare blood pressure by auscultatory and oscillometric measurements in patients ≥ 80 years.

Method: 100 patients had blood pressure measured by auscultation with a sphygmomanometer and by an electronic device using the oscillometric method.