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Scientists mapped genomes of bed bug strains, identifying 729 mutations linked to insecticide resistance, offering insights for improved pest control. Scientists have successfully mapped near-complete and highly accurate genomes for two strains of bed bugs: one highly susceptible to insecticides and another “superstrain” that is roughly 20,000 times more resistant. This achievement provides the most comprehensive view yet of the genetic mutations behind insecticide resistance. The findings were published in the journal Insects. While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans, their bites can cause itchy rashes and secondary infections. Insecticide use, including the now-banned DDT, nearly...

While the rest of us are doing our utmost to avoid human contact, prisoners don’t have that option. They are kept in open, close quarters that are conducive to spreading the coronavirus. Officials are trying to lower the risk by letting some inmates out of prison. U.S. Attorney General William Barr released a memorandum to the Director of the Bureau of Prisons encouraging the use of home confinement for vulnerable and low-risk inmates. He said the agency has 10,000 inmates over age 60 currently in custody (note one-third of those would not qualify since they were convicted of violent or...

Will and his partner are like a well-oiled machine when it comes to making their morning coffee. Will, wanted to donate blood: We never had a fight. Never had one fight. They have been in a monogamous relationship for five years and recently the couple was moved by the images of the devastation left behind by hurricane Katrina. Will: I went to donate blood, because I felt like I needed to do something for the hurricane victims. But before will could even roll up his sleeves, he was told his blood was unwanted. The reason - it wasn't because he...