Antimicrobial efficacy of soap and water hand washing versus an alcohol-based hand cleanser.

The emergence of alcohol-based hand cleansers may represent an alternative to soap and water in the clinical dental setting. In this study, the antimicrobial efficacy of traditional hand washing vs. a unique alcohol-based hand cleanser with persistence was evaluated.

Cost analysis of hand hygiene using antimicrobial soap and water versus an alcohol-based hand rub.

Proper hand hygiene is acknowledged as the most critical element of an adequate infection control program in the oral healthcare setting. However, adherence to proper hand hygiene protocols is often lacking. Poor compliance with hand hygiene protocols has been attributed to such factors as lack of time, hand irritation, hand dryness, forgetfulness, skepticism over importance, understaffing, perceived low risk of cross-infection, inconvenience, and the belief gloves alone offer protection.

The Effect of Cromakalim on the Hindlimb Vascular Bed of the Male Rat: Do Glybenclamide and/or Nitric Oxide Modulate the Vasodilation?

Cromakalim, a benzopyran derivative, is a member of a novel class of antihypertensive agents that increase membrane K(+) conductance through ATP-sensitive K(+) channels. The effects of glybenclamide and N(omega)-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), a specific inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis from L-arginine were investigated on the vasodilator response to cromakalim in the hindlimb vascular bed in the male rat, as well as the combination glybenclamide and L-NAME. Thirty male Sprague--Dawley rats (350--450 g) were studied.