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Science News for February 19, 2017


Bringing evidence to health screening debates

Constantine Gatsonis, a leading researcher on cancer screening studies, emphasizes the importance of rigorously produced evidence in health screenings. His work has shed light on the accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and impact of various screening methods, including digital mammography and tomosynthesis.

Mapping a path to better oral health

Researcher Brenda Heaton found that social networks play an overlooked role in oral health care, influencing behavior and disease prevention. She aims to use network maps to introduce health resources into communities, changing long-term behaviors and preventing tooth decay through prevention.

Bee decline threatens US crop production

The study reveals wild bees are disappearing in US farmlands, including California, the Midwest and Mississippi Valley, threatening crop production. The 'trouble zone' counties face a potential mismatch between rising demand for pollination and falling supply of wild bees, highlighting the need for habitat restoration efforts.

Save the bees? There's an app for that

A new mobile app developed by University of Vermont researchers aims to help farmers protect endangered bees by calculating crop productivity and pollination benefits. The app allows users to explore land management scenarios and virtually test how bee-friendly decisions would improve their business.