So I'm trying to figure out what all the changes were in Crusade.  If anyone has a page that explains everything, I'd appreciate it.  I've been having some learning-curve issues (e.g., I gathered together enough administrators to build multiple Constructors to upgrade my starbases, only to find out MUCH later why they couldn't do anything when they arrived).

First question: For the resources (galactic and planetary), is there a way to find out what upgrades/buildings/weapons/etc. use what resources?  For instance, I went through a phase for about 30 turns where I couldn't keep Durantium to save my life.  I THINK some auto-upgrades were happening on my planets, but those mostly seem done now.

Second question: Are the Mercenaries from that DLC viable with Crusade?  For instance, there's the one Mercenary Constructor, which has 5 modules.  I'm guessing he's no worth much more than a bog-standard Constructor, now, since we have to pay for the upgrades out of cash and resources.

Third question: From reading the forums, it looks like population is almost worthless now.  Does this mean I can free up the slots I'd use for Cities, Farms/Hospitals/Clinics, and extra Entertainment Centers (beyond one or two to keep the masses in line)?

Edit: Also, is there some way to specify to the auto-ship-designer what you want in terms of focus?  E.g., there's three forms of defense (shield, armor, and point defense).  The auto-ship-designer keeps using shields.  Which is great... as long as my ships don't encounter the type of weapons that ignore shields.