Effectiveness of structured planned post discharge support to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for reducing readmission rates: a systematic review.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable disease, characterized by airflow limitation. The disease has a significant impact on the lives of patients and is a challenge for the health care due to readmissions to hospitals.

Objectives: This review aimed to identify, appraise and synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness of discharge interventions that can reduce readmission of patients with COPD.

Evaluation of plasma and urinary levels of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1alpha as a marker for asymptomatic myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs.

Endothelial dysfunction might be involved in the pathogenesis of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). The aims of this study were (1) to validate an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for canine 6-keto-prostaglandin (PG)F(1alpha) (prostacyclin metabolite and marker for endothelial function) and (2) to compare plasma and urinary 6-keto-PGF(1alpha) in dogs with asymptomatic MMVD. The study included two breeds predisposed to MMVD and two control groups (Cairn terriers and dogs of different breeds).