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Science News for April 1, 2006


Value of services performed by insects tops $57 billion in US

Native insects provide valuable services worth $50 billion in recreation industry, $4.5 billion in pest control, $3 billion in crop pollination, and conserving grazing lands valued at $380 million annually. Insects are crucial for human survival, and their ecological functions need to be conserved or enhanced through research investment.

SourceCornell University·JournalBioScience·DateApr 1, 2006

New scientific review shows vegetarian diets cause major weight loss

A new scientific review highlights the effectiveness of vegetarian diets in promoting weight loss, with body weights averaging 3-20% lower than meat-eaters. A low-fat vegan diet leads to a weekly weight loss of about 1 pound without additional exercise or calorie restrictions.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateApr 1, 2006
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Biologists estimate the value of services provided by insects

A study by Losey and Vaughan estimates the economic value of ecological services provided by insects at $57 billion annually in the United States. The services include natural control of crop pests, pollination, and wildlife nutrition, valued at $4.5 billion, $3 billion, and $50 billion respectively.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateApr 1, 2006

Mayo Clinic study finds two genes predict outcome for breast cancer patients

A Mayo Clinic study found that a specific gene profile of HOXB13 and IL17BR is an independent marker of early breast cancer relapse or death in lymph node-negative breast cancer. This discovery has significant clinical implications, suggesting the potential for improved treatment outcomes for high-risk patients.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateApr 1, 2006