Independent prognostic value of echocardiography and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide in patients with heart failure

Echocardiographic indices of cardiac structure and function and natriuretic peptide levels are strong predictors of mortality in patients with heart failure. Whether cardiac ultrasound and natriuretic peptides provide independent prognostic information is uncertain

Prefabrication and Preassembly Trends and Effects on the Construction Workforce

The purpose of this project was to determine prefabrication and preassembly trends and effects on the construction workforce. Twenty-nine managers from across the United States were surveyed. Based on their responses, it was estimated that prefabrication and preassembly increased by approximately 86% from 1984 to 1999. For prefabrication and preassembly work, those surveyed generally agreed that productivity and safety levels are higher, skill levels are the same, and wage levels are lower. These results can be factored into future project and supply chain strategiesRay Marshall Center for the Study of Human Resource