Comparison of two live-animal ultrasound systems for genetic evaluation of carcass traits in Angus cattle.

The improvement of carcass traits is an important breeding objective in beef cattle breeding programs. The most common way of selecting for improvement in carcass traits is via indirect selection using ultrasound scanning of selection candidates which are submitted to genetic evaluation programs. Two systems used to analyze ultrasound images to predict carcass traits are the Pie Medical Esaote Aquila () and Central Ultrasound Processing ().

Environmental contamination by bacteria in hospital washrooms according to hand-drying method: a multi-centre study.

Background: Hand hygiene is a fundamental component of infection prevention, but few studies have examined whether hand-drying method affects the risk of dissemination of potential pathogens.

Aim: To perform a multi-centre, internal-crossover study comparing bacterial contamination levels in washrooms with hand-drying by either paper towels (PT) or jet air dryer (JAD; Dyson).

Methods: A total of 120 sampling sessions occurred over 12 weeks in each of three hospitals (UK, France, Italy).

The potential of alcohol release doorplates to reduce surface contamination during hand contact.

Background: Optimal hand hygiene may be compromised by contact with contaminated environmental surfaces.

Aim: To investigate the in-vitro efficacy of a novel alcohol-release doorplate to reduce surface contamination during hand contact.

Methods: Prototype, horizontally held, Surfaceskins, alcohol gel-impregnated and control (aluminium) doorplates were challenged (N = 72 per micro-organism) with Staphylococcus aureus-, Eschericia coli-, Enterococcus faecalis-, or Clostridium difficile-contaminated fingers.