Abstract: Connecting means for connecting a first piece of hollow tube to a second piece of hollow tube. This means comprises an insert, where the insert is a hollow shaft having an external and an internal cross section. The internal cross section of said insert having a central rectangular section. The internal cross section having a first and a second tapered sections on either side of the central rectangular section tapering down from the height of the central rectangular section down to zero. The external cross section of the insert is adapted to fit snuggly inside the first piece of hollow tube and said second piece of hollow tube and the insert is adapted to minimize the peak stress transfer loading between the insert and the first and second piece of hollow tube. It also comprises a bonding means, where the bonding means adapted to secure the insert to the inside said first and second piece of hollow tube. The invention also consists in a kit.

Abstract: Unique Solenopsis invicta viruses (SINV) have been identified and their genome sequenced. Oligonucleotide primers have been developed using the isolated nucleic acid sequences of the SINV. The viruses are used as a biocontrol agent for control of fire ants.