1. Researchers have developed a new DNA-based test that can more quickly and accurately distinguish between two potato pests called the golden nematode and pale cyst nematode. 2. The test identifies unique DNA sequences in the parasitism genes of each nematode species, allowing identification from small nematode samples. 3. Scientists also discovered a new species of Ehrlichia bacteria carried by ticks that can cause febrile illness in humans in Wisconsin and Minnesota. The most severe cases can impact multiple organs and effective treatment involves antibiotics like doxycycline.