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Background: Anopheles stephensi, a malaria‐transmitting mosquito species, has developed resistance to various insecticides such as DDT, Dieldrin, Malathion, and synthetic pyrethroids. To combat this issue, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests using Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS for Indoor Residual Spraying to tackle pyrethroid‐resistant mosquitoes. The aim of this research project was to evaluate the susceptibility of An. stephensi to certain insecticides at the diagnostic concentration + intensity 5x diagnostic concentration (5XDC) assays in Iran and to study the lasting effectiveness of Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS against this particular malaria vector. Methods: This study assessed the susceptibility of An. stephensi populations in southern Iran to various insecticides, including deltamethrin 0.05%, DDT 4%, malathion 5%, bendiocarb 0.1%, a synergist assay with PBO 4% combined with deltamethrin 0.05%, and an intensity assay using 5x the diagnostic concentration of deltamethrin (0.25%) and bendiocarb 0.5%. Laboratory cone bioassay tests were conducted to determine the residual effectiveness of Actellic®300 and Icon®10CS insecticides on different surfaces commonly found in households, such as cement, mud, plaster, and wood. The tests were carried out following the WHO test kits and standard testing protocols. Results: The An. stephensi populations in Bandar Abbas were found to be susceptible to malathion 5% and deltamethrin 0.25% (5XDC), but exhibited resistance to DDT, standard concentration of deltamethrin, and both standard and intensity concentrations of bendiocarb. In laboratory cone bioassay tests, An. stephensi mortality rates when exposed to Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS on different surfaces remained consistently more than 80%. Actellic®300CS achieved more than 80% mortality on all substrates for the entire 300‐day post‐spraying period. Conversely, Icon®10CS maintained mortality rates more than 80% on plaster and wood surfaces for 165 days and on mud and cement surfaces for 270 days post‐spraying. Both Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS demonstrated 100% mortality within 72 h of each test on all surfaces throughout the entire 300‐day post‐spraying period. Conclusion: The study shows the varying levels of resistance of An. stephensi Bandar Abbas population to different insecticides and demonstrates the consistent performance of Actellic®300CS in controlling these mosquitoes on various surfaces. The findings suggest that long‐lasting CS formulations may be more effective for malaria vector control compared to the current options. Further research is needed to validate these findings in field settings and assess the impact of these insecticides on malaria transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The equine South African pointy vector mosquito, Aedes caballus, poses a significant threat to human health due to its capacity for transmitting arboviruses. Despite favorable climate for its existence in southeast Iran, previous records of this species in the area have indicated very low abundance. This comprehensive field and laboratory study aimed to assess its current adult population status in this region, utilizing a combination of ecological, morphological and molecular techniques. Four distinct types of traps were strategically placed in three fixed and two variable mosquito sampling sites in the southern strip of Sistan and Baluchistan Province. Subsequently, DNA was extracted from trapped mosquitoes and subjected to PCR amplification using the molecular markers COI, ITS2, and ANT. In total, 1734 adult Ae. caballus specimens were collected from rural areas, with the majority being captured by CO2-baited bednet traps. A notable increase in the abundance of this species was observed following rainfall in February. The genetic analysis revealed multiple haplotypes based on COI and ITS2 sequences, with COI gene divergence at 0.89%, and ITS2 sequence divergence at 1.6%. This suggests that previous challenges in morphological identification may have led to misidentifications, with many adults previously classified as Ae. vexans potentially being Ae. caballus. The findings of this study hold significant implications for public health authorities, providing valuable insights for integrated and targeted vector control and disease management efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae) is the main vector of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. Wolbachia is a symbiotic alphaproteobacteria of arthropods that can be involved in susceptibility or resistance. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Wolbachia and Deltamethrin susceptibility/resistance in Ph. papatasi. Deltamethrin filter papers (0.00002%) were used to test sand fly field collected from southern Iran. After the test, PCR amplification of the Wolbachia surface protein gene (wsp) was used to measure Wolbachia infection rate in the killed, surviving, and control groups. Result: The rates of infection by Wolbachia strain (wPap, super group A) differed between killed (susceptible) and surviving (resistant) Ph. papatasi specimens. The rate of Wolbachia infection in susceptible individuals was more than twice (2.3) (39% vs. 17%) in resistant individuals with the same genetic background. This difference was highly significant (p < 0.001), indicating a positive association between Wolbachia infection and susceptibility to Deltamethrin. In addition, the results showed that Deltamethrin can act as a PCR inhibitor during detection of Wolbachia in Ph. papatasi. Conclusion: Results of this study show that Wolbachia is associated with Deltamethrin susceptibility level in Ph. papatasi. Also, as Deltamethrin has been identified as a PCR inhibitor, great care must be taken in interpreting Wolbachia infection status in infected populations. The results of this study may provide information for a better understanding of the host-symbiont relationship, as well as application of host symbiosis in pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are two core interventions for control and prevention of malaria infection. This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and practices of women regarding malaria and its preventive measures in a malarious area in the Jask County, southeast of Iran. Methods: Data was collected from 400 households through a two-stage random cluster sampling method in six villages. Pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect data. During the survey, visual observations were also made by the interviewers to check use of LLINs and IRS. The data were analyzed by SPSS software version 21. Results: The majority of households had a high level of knowledge about symptoms (98%, n=392) and transmission (74.5%, n=298) of malaria. The main preventive measures against malaria were: LLINS (39.5%, n=158), IRS (32%, n=128), and screens on doors/windows (16.7%, n=67). In addition, participants with primary or higher educational level reported that they practice more malaria preventive measures, compared to those who were illiterate (OR=3.3, 95% CI= 1.6–6.6, p=0.0001, Table 6). In spite of positive perceptions about IRS and LLINs, only 35.5% (n=142) and 17% (n=68) of households used IRS and LLINs, respectively. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, despite a high level of knowledge about malaria and its preventive measures, a small number of participants use LLINs and IRS for malaria prevention. Therefore, implementation of effective educational interventions is recommended to improve preventive practices against malaria in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae) is the main vector of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) in Iran. The nonstandard use of pesticides against pests, particularly in agriculture, indirectly has caused the development of resistance and, consequently, the threat of control measures in ZCL endemic areas. Up to 2023, several reports of resistance in Ph. papatasi have been declared in the Old World. The purpose of this study was to measure the lethal time (LT50 and LT90) of Ph. papatasi sand flies in the ZCL endemic center of Esfahan to DDT and deltamethrin insecticides. Methods: Sand flies were collected in Borkhar and were tested using WHO adult mosquito test kit against DDT 4% and deltamethrin 0.0002%. The sand fly’s survival was recorded during exposure time in 225, 450|, 900, 1800, and 3600- seconds’ intervals for DDT and Deltamethrin and they were allowed to recover for 24 hours. Then LT50 and LT90 were analyzed using probit software. Phlebotomus papatasi were identified using morphological keys and other sand flies’ species were excluded from the analysis. Results: The insecticide against female Ph. papatasi revealed hundred percent mortality when exposed to DDT 4% and deltamethrin 0.0002%. The LT50 and LT90 were 19.32 and 22.74 minutes for DDT 4% and 39.92 and 51.33 minutes for deltamethrin 0.0002% respectively. Conclusion: Results of this study revealed that Ph. papatasi is still susceptible to DDT and deltamethrin. This data provides valuable knowledge to implement effective control strategies against ZCL main vector and help to manage insecticide resistance in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anopheles stephensi is an efficient vector of malaria parasites in Iran. Despite its importance in malaria transmission, there is a scarcity of accurate predictive models of its rates of development at different temperatures. A laboratory colony of An. stephensi, collected from Bandar Abbas County, southern Iran, was established, and all its developmental stages were maintained in temperature-controlled incubators so that the water temperature set at 5, 8, 10, 12.5, 14, 28, 38, 39.5, 42, and 45(±0.2) °C for different treatments until subsequent adult emergence. The Lower and Upper Developmental Temperatures (LDT and UDT) and the growth degree-day (GDD) were calculated for each development stage. A 12-mo population dynamics survey of the larvae and adults of An. stephensi was performed in 3 malaria-endemic villages (Geno, Hormoodar, and Sarkhoon) of Bandar Abbas County, and the obtained data were matched with the constructed GDD model. Based on the field meteorological and dynamics data, the model was verified in the field and used to determine the appropriate date to start spraying. The LDT was determined to be 8.19, 9.74, 8.42, 5.6, 13.57, and 10.03 °C for egg hatching, first, second, and third ecdysis, pupation, and eclosion events, respectively. The UDT was 38 °C for all developmental stages. The thermal requirement for the development of all immature stages of An stephensi was determined to be 187.7 (±56.3) GDD above the LDT. Therefore, the appropriate date to start residual spraying is when the region's GDD reaches 187.7 (±56.3). Given the climatic conditions in Bandar Abbas County, it is expected that the first activity peak of adult An. stephensi would be in March. Field observations showed that An. stephensi activity starts in February and peaks in March. The GDD model can provide a good estimate for peak An. stephensi activity and indicate the optimal deployment time of residual spraying operations against the multiplication and development of malaria parasites inside the vector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drosophila melanogaster flies are smooth, low upkeep and safe model organisms, they can be effortlessly used in different fields of life sciences like genomics, biotechnology, genetics, disease model, and Wolbachia-based approaches to fight vectors and the pathogens they transmit. Methods: Fruit fly specimens were collected in 25 districts (14 provinces) of Iran and their morphological recognition was proven by molecular analysis based on sequence homology of mitochondrial COI barcode region. Essential information and specific requirements were provided for laboratory rearing of D. melanogaster. Results: Drosophila melanogaster colonies were found in 23 out of 25 districts. Also, five related species coincident with D. melanogaster were reported in this study including D. ananassae/D. parapallidosa, D. hydei, D. repleta, Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae), and Megaselia scalaris (Diptera: Phoridae). The Iranian D. melanogaster molecular signature and their rearing techniques have been described here. The complete life cycle, from (egg to adult), takes approximately 8 days at 25 °C. Some biological points have been presented with highlighting capturing, rearing, culturing, and embryo collection along with primitive recognition and segregation between females and males have been presented. A recipe for culture media and the quantity of various ingredients have been provided. Conclusion: This is the first report on the D. repleta and D. ananassae/D. parapallidosa species for the country. Results of this study provide efficient and effective rearing procedures which are requirement for both small-scale for facilitating entomological research and large-scale use in justifiable vector control management such as disease model or Dengue control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cockroaches play a role in the mechanical transmission of microbial pathogens. This study was designed to determine the isolated bacteria and their susceptibility to conventional antibiotics from brown-banded cockroach, Supella longipalpa, in Qom province, central Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, brown-banded cockroaches were bred in an insectary and caught from hospitals of Qom. The samples were taken from the surface and alimentary canal and then cultured on microbial culture media; next, grown specimens were identified using differential culture media. Finally, after performing diagnostic tests and identifying the bacteria species, their susceptibility to various antibiotics was evaluated. Results: A total of 120 adult cockroaches from the insectary and hospitals were included in the study. Ten bacterial genera were found; nine were Gram-negative and one was Gram-positive. The genus Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Staphylococcus, Citrobacter and Hafnia were isolated only from the hospital strain. On the other hand, Pseudomonas and Escherichia from both groups and other species such as Salmonella, Proteus and Shigella were isolated only from laboratory strains. The highest antibiotic resistance among Gram-positive cocci and Gram-negative bacilli were 100.0% and 98.1% for ampicillin and Ceftazidime, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that various pathogenic bacteria harbored by brown-banded cockroaches. Moreover, it was found that most of these bacteria belong to the Enterobacteriaceae family, which can be pathogenic and thus threaten human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anopheles stephensi is the main vector of malaria in Iran. This study aimed to determine the susceptibility of An. stephensi from the south of Iran to bendiocarb and to investigate biochemical and molecular resistance mechanisms in this species. Methods: Wild An. stephensi were collected from Hormozgan Province and reared to the adult stage. The susceptibility test was conducted according to the WHO protocols using bendiocarb impregnated papers supplied by WHO. Also, field An. Stephensi specimens were collected from south of Kerman and Sistan and Baluchistan Provinces. To determine the G119S mutation in the acetylcholinesterase (Ace1) gene, PCR-RFLP using AluI restriction enzyme and PCR direct-sequencing were performed for the three field populations and compared with the available GenBank data. Also, biochemical assays were performed to measure alpha and beta esterases, insensitive acetylcholinesterase, and oxidases in the strains. Results: The bioassay tests showed that the An. stephensi field strain was resistant to bendiocarb (mortality rate 89%). Ace1 gene analysis revealed no G119S in the three field populations. Blast search of sequences revealed 98–99% identity with the Ace1 gene from Pakistan and India respectively. Also, the results of biochemical tests revealed the high activity of non-sensitive acetylcholinesterase, alpha and beta-esterase in the resistant strain compared to the susceptible strain. No G119S was detected in this study additionally the enhanced enzyme activity of esterases and acetylcholinesterase suggesting that resistance was metabolic. Conclusion: The use of alternative malaria control methods and the implementation of resistance management strategies are suggested in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis is a major public health problem in Iran with the main vector of Phlebotomus papatasi. The use of entomopathogenic fungi for biological control of the vector is a potential substitute for the current methods which are being used. The purpose of the current study was to assess the virulence of two local isolates of Beauveria bassiana (OZ2 and TV) against Ph. papatasi. Methods: To perform the bioassay test, fungal suspensions were applied for every stage of the sand fly life cycle. The mortality rate, longevity, and number of eggs laid were determined. Also, the probability of fungal survival on the surface of rodent’s body was assessed. Results: The longevity of infected adult sand flies with both isolates of B. bassiana was significantly lower (P< 0.05) in comparison to the negative control. The estimated Lethal concentration 50 (LC50) values for adult female and male sand flies treated with OZ2 isolate were 1.4×106 and 2.2×107 conidia/ml, respectively, while they were 6.8×106 and 2.3×108 conidia/ml for TV isolate, respectively. Both isolates of B. bassiana exhibited nonsignificant mortality rates in sand fly larvae and pupae and fecundity rate (P> 0.05). According to our findings for both isolates, the fungus continued to spread throughout the surface of the rodent's body for 144 hours after spraying. Conclusion: The current study demonstrated that both isolates of B. bassiana have considerable biological control capacity against adult sand flies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The German cockroach, Blattella germanica (Insecta: Blattodea, Blattellidae), which occurs widely in human buildings, is a small cockroach species. Cockroach control chemical pesticides are toxic to the environment, and it is sometimes impossible to prevent them. Controlling Blattella germanica through ultrasonic waves can be efficient and less dangerous for the environment. Methods: In this study, the repellency and lethal effect of ultrasonic waves on male and female German cockroaches was tested in a twin glass cubic chamber at laboratory condition. The wave frequencies tested ranged from 20 to 100kHz with 5kHz steps. A signal generator generated these frequencies, and the piezoelectric transmitter of these ultrasonic waves was positioned in the chamber's center on the upper side. Results: Fisher's test showed that there was the greatest repellency effect in both male and female at frequencies of 35 and 40kHz. According to the results of the regression test, the most lethal effect is at the frequencies of 40 and 75kHz. Conclusion: The operating ultrasonic frequencies investigated in this study can be used to repel and kill German cockroaches as pests endangering human health and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Controlling of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus, vectors of five important mosquito-borne diseases, is known as the most effective method to prevent the transmission of arboviruses to humans, but the emergence of insecticide resistance is threat for control and prevention of vector borne diseases. A better understanding of mosquito resistance to insecticides will help to develop more effective methods to control insecticide resistance in mosquito vectors. Methods: Worldwide geographical distribution of insecticide resistance in Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus by the available papers and map of the data for carbamates, organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids, microbial and insect growth regulator insecticides were reviewed. Article data published up to December 2022 were investigated by searching the following databases: "Google Scholar", "PubMed", "Scopus", "SID" and "Web of Knowledge". Results: The results showed that the susceptibility and resistance status of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus to insecticides in the world is very diverse. Conclusion: Due to the importance of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in the transmission of mosquito-borne arboviruses, resistance management should be given more attention worldwide to prevent insecticide resistance in the arbovirus vector and replace the new approach for vector control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anopheles stephensi is a major vector of malaria in some parts of the world. A standard method for determining resistance in adult mosquito populations is the bioassay test recommended by the world health organization (WHO). The papers used in this method have an expiry date. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of outdated susceptibility test papers for use in insecticide resistance monitoring programs. Methods: Beech and Bandar Abbas strains of An. stephensi were reared in the insectary. Permethrin 0.75%, Deltamethrin 0.05%, and Bendiocarb 0.1% impregnated test papers prepared by Universiti Sains Malaysia were used. Probit analysis was used to analyze the results and prepare time-mortality regression lines of LT50 and LT90. Results: There was a difference in the mortality of both tested strains of An. stephensi was exposed to all tested insecticides. Both expired and not expired Permethrin and Deltamethrin papers induced 100% mortality at the diagnostic time (60min), but their insecticidal properties were reduced gradually in serial times. The highest efficacy of test papers was in the first trimester after the expiry date and decreased over time. Conclusion: At the diagnostic time of 60 minutes, the mortality rate of both dated and expired papers was 100% in the pyrethroid insecticides, even three years after expiry dates, if stored in the package provided by the producer, in a refrigerator. This value was reduced to less than 100% in the expired papers of Bendiocarb comparing the dated papers that induced 100% mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants are used as control measure against mosquito bites. Efficacy, protection time and the effective dose of specimens were assessed on Anopheles stephensi. The malaria vector were reared under insectary condition, plants were collected from different parts of the country and identified and certified based on the morphological characters. The chemical composition of the volatile constituents was evaluated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The repellent activity of extracted essential oils was evaluated against adult female An. stephensi by using the animal-bait technique on white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Major component of the essential oils from each area according to climatic conditions indicated 36 compounds in M. longifolia, Cis-β-guaiene 42%, Cubenol 22%, and (Z)-3-hexenol 11.2% in Armand district, as well as 13 compounds with 8-cedren-13-ol 85.5%, Cis-ascaridole 4.2%, and Oplopanone 3% in Shah-manzar were the major components of the essential oil at autumn season. Mean protection time and the efficacy of specimens from different climates were 5.9, 6.6 and 2.3, 3.1 and 2.3, 3.3 and 3.0, 3.3 h, respectively. ED50 and ED90 values for the same specimens were calculated 1.48, 10.46, and 2.94, 24.02, and 5.26, 31.83, and 13.68, 84.23 μl/cm2, respectively. A total of 65, 11, 29, and 24 chemical compounds were isolated. Humid temperate cold area had the highest protection time. It can be considered as an appropriate herbal repellent against malaria vector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ticks are blood-sucking ectoparasites of many vertebrates and act as vectors of a wide range of vectorborne diseases. Alongside pathogens transmission, ticks also cause economic losses in animal industry such as production loss, physical damage, anemia, and poisoning. This study aimed to determine the fauna, geographical distribution and seasonal activity of ticks collected from animals in Lorestan Province, west of Iran. Methods: Ticks were collected from domestic animals including cattle, sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, pigeons, as well as wild animals such as jackals in 2017–2018. Then, they were identified based on morphological characteristics using valid identification keys. Results: Out of a total of 706 ticks, 433 (61.33%), 104 (14.73%), 33 (4.67%) and 136 (19.26%) ticks were collected in spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively. In terms of hard ticks, 4 genera and 6 species were identified: Hyalomma asiaticum (22.80%), Hyalomma anatolicum (3.68%), Hyalomma marginatum (2.40%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.84%), Dermacentor marginatus (1.13%), and Haemaphysalis sulcata (0.64%). Additionally, two genera and four species fell into soft ticks: Argas persicus (60.48%), Argas reflexus (6.65%), Ornithodoros canstrini (0.70%) and Ornithodoros erraticus (0.42%). There was significant variation in the seasonal activity and abundance of ticks in different seasons but in the tick abundancy among different regions. Conclusions: The present study provides a perspective of the distribution status of ticks in Lorestan Province, their seasonal activity and the likelihood of emergence of related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria is the most important mosquito-borne disease, which is transmitted by Anopheles species. According to the recent report of World Health Organization, there were an estimated 229 million malaria cases in 2019 in 87 malaria endemic countries. There are several vector control method specially using pesticides. The aim of this study was to collect all the data about insecticide resistant of malaria vectors in the Eastern Mediterranean region countries. In this study, all the published papers related to insecticide resistance of malaria vectors in the region were collected and resistant status of vectors in the countries was mapped. Resistance to different insecticide classes such as pyrethroids, organophosphate, organochlorine and carbamates were evaluated using World Health Organization guidelines. Results showed a wide variety of susceptibility/resistance status to these chemicals according to the location, historical context of pesticide used, genetic background of vectors, age and abdominal conditions of adults may play a role in the susceptibility status of these species to different insecticides. The results of this study is providing a guideline for countries to manage their vector control activities against insecticide resistance of malaria vectors and provide novel approaches such as male sterility, using Wolbachia, using new insecticide with new mode of action. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among neglected zoonotic diseases, leishmaniases caused by Leishmania parasite through infected female sand fly bite, are a group of diseases found in 98 countries and territories representing a critical burden of disease worldwide. Vector management plays a crucial role in reducing the burden of vector-borne diseases by WHO’s global plan. The objective of the current study was to assess the susceptibility status of wild phlebotomine sand flies from Esfahan Province, central Iran, to the recommended insecticides by WHO. Methods: Sand flies were collected by mouth aspirator in Matin Abad desert Eco-resort and were tested using WHO adult mosquito test kit against Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) 4%, Deltamethrin 0.05%, Malathion 5% and Propoxur 0.1%. The number of knockdown sand flies were recorded during exposure time in ten minutes interval for DDT and Deltamethrin and they were allowed to recover for 24 hours. Knockdown Time50 (KD50) and KD90 were generated for them using Probit software. They were mounted and identified by valid keys. Results: Among the tested insecticides against female Phlebotomus papatasi, DDT, Deltamethrin, and Malathion recorded the highest mortality rate of 100%, followed by Propoxur with 92.2% mortality for a one-hour exposure. For DDT, KD50 and KD90 were calculated 21.87 and 42.93 and for Deltamethrin, they were 23.74 and 56.50 minutes respectively. Total sand flies exposed with DDT and Deltamethrin shed their leg(s). Conclusion: It is concluded that Ph. papatasi from central Iran is susceptible to DDT, Deltamethrin, Malathion, and Propoxur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fauna and larval habitat characteristics studies on mosquitoes are important tools to identify the breeding places of the vectors and management of the control strategies. This study was done to provide data on Culicidae fauna, larval habitat characteristics and identifying potential vectors of West Nile virus in Lorestan Province, west of Iran. Methods: Culicidae mosquitoes were collected at three counties and nine site stations from Lorestan Province, west of Iran in 2017. Adult mosquitoes were collected using human and animal bite collection methods, New Jersey and CDC light traps and pit shelters by aspirator. Larva were collected by dipping method. RT-PCR technique was employed for detection of the West Nile virus among mosquito’s samples. Results: 4805 mosquitoes were collected from three counties and nine sites in Lorestan Province during June–October 2017, including 4363 adults and 442 larvae. The most abundant species collected from all counties in both adult and larval stages were Culex pipiens (49.10%), Cx. theileri (31.82%), Anopheles maculipennis (11.09%), An. superpictus (2.66%), An. stephensi (2.12%), Cx. perexiguus (1.89%), An. dthali (1.17%) and An. sacharovi (0.15%) respectively. West Nile virus was detected in none of mosquitoes examined. Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that arbovirus vectors such as Cx. pipiens along with Cx. theileri and Cx. perexiguus are well adapted to a broad range of habitats and different climatic conditions in Lorestan Province. That necessitates further routine surveillance of arboviral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to undesired environmental impact of insecticides as well as resistant of vectors to them, the development of organic and natural insecticides has been more considered. In the current study, we developed nanoemulsion of eucalyptus and investigated lavicidal activity of it against malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi and Culex pipiens under laboratory as well as semi-field conditions. Methods: An optimized nanoemulsion was prepared by mixing Eucalyptus oil, Tween 80 and ethanol at ratio of 1:2:1.5 in distilled water, then, stirred for 20 minutes at room temperature. The product was then used for bioassay tests against 3-4th instar larvae of Anopheles stephensi as well as Culex pipiens. Furthermore, a semi-field trial was carried out to evaluate larvicidal activity of nanoemulsion of eucalyptus. Results: Nanoemulsion of eucalyptus showed significantly high lavicidal activity comparing with bulk eucalyptus essential oil. The LC50 and LC90 value of nanoemulsion against An. stephensi were 111.0 and 180.8 ppm respectively and 29.5 and 73.7 ppm for Cx. pipiens, respectively. In the semi field condition, the Nanoemulsion of eucalyptus decreased 1-2nd instar larval density of Culicines and Anophelines to 90.1% and 85.2%, respectively. Conclusion: The nano formulation of eucalyptus oil showed high larvicidal activity. Therefore, nanoemulsion of eucalyptus oil can be used as an eco-friendly larvicide against mosquitoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to the confirmation of the presence of the novel coronavirus in the feces and municipal sewerage system, and the feeding of domestic insects from fecal matter, as well as the ability of these insects to mechanically transmit microbes from the sewerage system. This study was aimed at molecular evaluation of the novel coronavirus infection isolated on cockroaches and flies collected from Kamkar-Arabnia Hospital in Qom City, Iran. Methods: Totally, 18 samples; (12 samples cockroaches and 6 flies) from the external surface of cockroaches and houseflies as well as their digestive system were prepared. After designed and synthetized exogenous heterologous internal control, the RNA was extracted to investigate the contamination of these samples with the novel coronavirus. To detect the virus, the E and RdRp genes were identified. Results: Investigation of coronavirus E gene using the multiplex one-step qPCR technique on the collected samples showed an amplification plot in CT= 35.70 related to the internal surfaces of cockroaches collected from the treatment and sick room of the hospital. Also, the design of internal control to ensure the accuracy of the extraction process was successful. Conclusion: According to the findings of the present study regarding detecting the presence of the coronavirus infection in the digestive system of domestic insects such as American cockroaches and considering their ability to mechanically transmit viruses, it is recommended to control the domestic insects that are in close contact with humans in crowded places such as hospitals and health centers during the Covid-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Culex pipiens complex is considered as a vector of some important diseases such as West Nile fever, equine encephalitis, Rift valley fever, St. Louis encephalitis, Elephanthiasis and avian malaria in the world. The main measure for vector control is using insecticides. High use of insecticides caused resistance in the populations. The aim of this study was to review the status of insecticide resistance in the vector. Methods: Insecticide resistance in this species was found by the available papers and map of the data for carbamates, organochlorine, organophosphates, pyrethroids, microbial and insect growth regulator insecticides were done. An intensive search of scientific literature was done in “PubMed”, “Web of Knowledge”, “Scopus”, “Google Scholar”, “SID”, and related resources. Results: Results showed that a wide variety of resistance to different insecticides in the country. Due to importance of this species in transmission of diseases. Discussion: resistance management strategies should be further considered to prevent from in secticide resistance and replacement of novel approach for vector control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the significance of climate change and its substantial effects on mosquitoes’ habitats, this study was aimed to model the spatial distribution of the main malaria vectors in the south east of Iran. Methods: Several scientific databases between 1980 and 2019 were reviewed to find mosquito species and their spatial information in this area. The archived folders in the center for diseases control and prevention were used to exploit essential data on malaria cases and foci. Three representative concentration pathways (RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) were chosen to stand for three possible climate scenarios. Finally the potential species distribution of Anopheles stephensi and An. culicifacies s.l. in the 2030s and 2050s horizons were estimated by the Maximum Entropy Model. Results: So far, a total of 39 mosquito species belonging to the family Culicidae have been reported from the study area. In 2019, the total malaria cases have increased by 91% compared to 2015, as well as a sharp rise than 2018 (249%). In that year, 91% of cases were imported from other countries, which caused 40% increase in the new potential foci than in 2018. The Jackknife test demonstrated the annual mean temperature and precipitation of the coldest quarter with the greatest impact on the environmental suitability of the mentioned two species. Conclusion: The effect of climate change on the appearance and recurrence of mosquito-borne diseases has been demonstrated in various studies. Collecting further data and conducting investigation on this issue will improve control management, especially for the malaria vectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vector borne diseases (VBDs) are the infectious diseases reported from all parts of the world and Iran. The main vectors of VBDs belong to the phylum of arthropod and insects. The aim of this study was providing the database of important VBDs and vectors and geographical distribution model in Ardabil, northwest of Iran. Methods: This retrospective cross–sectional study was conducted from 2001–2018. All the earlier published studies, reports and documentations related to vectors and vector–borne diseases searched systematically as well as the data of diseases was collected from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences. ArcGIS 10.4.2 (http://www.esri.com/ arcgis) were used to spatial analysis mapping, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) index and high/low clustering. Results: Totally 110076 cases of VBDs reported in Ardabil Province during the past 18 years including malaria, visceral leishmaniasis (VL), cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), tick–borne relapsing fever (TRF), pediculosis, scorpionism, scabies and anthrax. These diseases were transmitted in Ardabil Province by eight arthropod families, 19 genera and 70 spices of arthropods. Most species belonged to Culicidae with 24 species followed by Psycodidae with 22 and Ixodidae with 16 species. The incidence rate of VBDs was 63/100000 in 2001 which decreased to 7/100000 in 2010 and then increased to 21 /100000 in 2018. Conclusion: The distribution model of the VBDs was plotted based on the geographical and ecological of the vectors will help the authorities for decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cockroaches are one of the most common pests in many residential areas. In this study, the simultaneous effects of fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae and fenitrothion-coated baits on the mortality rate of the German cockroach nymphs were investigated. Methods: To determine the lethal level of fenitrothion insecticide, a bioassay test was performed on the last instar nymphs of the German cockroach reared at insectarium conditions. Various toxic concentrations of fenitrothion (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7%, 0.9%, 1.5%, and 2%) were used. Different concentrations of M. anisopliae (1×104, 1×105, 1×106, 1×107, 1×108 Conidia/ ml) were also applied to nymphs. Eventually, we combined the effective dose of fenitrothion (0.93%) with the effective concentration of M. anisopliae (6.6 ×106 Conidia/ml) to provide the fungus-coated bait to attract insects. Mortality was recorded 24–96 hours after exposure to the toxic bait. The resulting data were subjected to Probit analysis. Results: The results of applying M. anisopliae spores with fenitrothion composition showed that the mortality rate of German cockroach nymphs was significant. Therefore, the optimal dose of fenitrothion used in combination with M. anisopliae seems essential to reduce the German cockroach nymphs. Conclusion: The results of this study can be considered a suitable method as a mixture with low cost and minimal damage to the environment and other organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Head lice infestation is known as a serious health problem in developing and developed countries. The prevalence of pediculosis in children and females is higher than others. The infestation may cause the absence of student from school and make their parents upset. The aim of current study was to evaluate the WHO recommended insecticides for control of head lice in Islamshahr health center. Methods: In the current study infested individuals were older than 6 years old and have been diagnosed with at least 3 head lice adult and 10 live nits from less than 0.7 cm scalp. The pediculicides was applied randomly among groups. Permethrin shampoo as a golden standard was used. Dimethicone lotion 4% and Ivermectin lotion was compared with it. This study was conducted on 179 infested people. Results of infestation were evaluated after one month of intervention. Different indicators such as: present of head lice adult or live nit, redness and irritation in head skin were invested. Results: All the participants were female and 72.6% of them were in the age group of 6-11. The result revealed that aging not only decreases the infection rate but also raised the recovery percentage. The results showed that 79.5% permethrin receiver, 83% of people who treated with Dimethicone lotion and 90.6% of Ivermectin receiver had no head lice. There was no significant difference among these three pediculicides. Conclusion: There was no significant difference among tested pediculicides. An appropriate pediculicide can be selected by training people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria continues to be the main vector-borne disease in Iran. The endemic foci of malaria are in Sistan and Baluchistan Province, the borderline of Iran and Pakistan. By the year 2020 the program of the country is malaria elimination. The main vector control is using insecticide as Indoor Residual Spraying. The aim of the study was to evaluate the susceptibility of main malaria vectors to different insecticides recommended by WHO. Methods: All the insecticides papers supported by WHO and evaluation of insecticide resistance of Anopheles stephensi, Anopheles culicifacies, Anopheles superpictus to different chemical groups of imagicides including DDT 4%, malathion 5%, propoxur 01.%, lambdacyhalothrin 0.05%, deltamethrin 0.025% and permethrin 0.75% were followed by the WHO guideline. Results: Results of the susceptibility test against different insecticides revealed that An. stephensi and An. culicifacies are resistant to DDT and susceptible to other insecticides. An. superpictus is susceptible to all groups of pesticides. Conclusion: Knowledge on insecticide resistance in target species is a basic requirement to guide insecticide use in malaria control programmes in local and global scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria and leishmaniasis are the public health problems in southern Iran. The main activity of vector control is indoor residual spraying using pyrethroids, using different insecticides as larviciding and impregnated bednets. The aim of study was to evaluate the biological assays of bendiocarb wettable powder (WP) at different surfaces of wall. The residual effect of bendiocarb WP80 at 400 milligram/meter square (mg/m²) was evaluated on various local surfaces of rooms such as mud and plaster as well as thatch roofs and wooden. World Health Organization standard cones using contact bioassays were carried out using laboratory reared sugar-fed, 48-72 h old females of Anopheles stephensi. Contact bioassays were carried out on sprayed surfaces for 150 days. Contact bioassay on surfaces treated with bendiocarb WP80 at different surfaces was estimated about 2 months. Fumigant tests of bendiocarb WP80 at 400 mg/m² revealed 50-93.83% mortality with 1 month persistency. The results showed that carbamate insecticide could be used as rotation with pyrethroids for malaria vector control. Monitoring and evaluation of environmental toxicology of pesticides is important for decision making for choosing appropriate pesticides for disease vector control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria is a major public health problem in Nigeria with 97% of its population with high morbidity and mortality. Mosquitoes play an important role in the transmission of malaria parasites. This study was conducted to evaluate the current resistance status of Anopheles gambiae to insecticides. Methods: Larvae of An. gambiae was collected from three zones; A, B and C differentiated on the basis of variation in agricultural ecosystems between August and November, 2018 in the northeast and northwestern parts of Nigeria. They were carefully reared to adult stage and insecticidal susceptibility tests were conducted. Results: The mosquitoes tested showed high levels of resistance to all the insecticides used with the exception of malathion. Study zone A, recorded 74% mortality after 24h to deltamethrin compared to 81% from zone B and 82% from zone C, respectively. Mosquitoes from zone B exposed to DDT had the highest level of resistance at 37% compared to 40% and 53% from zones A and C, respectively. Resistant to bendiocarb was also observed, with zone A having the lowest mortality of 44% compared to 48% from zone C and 55% from Zone B, respectively. According to the results of knockdown tests, mosquitoes from Zone A exposed to deltamethrin recorded the lowest knockdown across the study locations while zone B recorded the lowest knockdown for DDT. Conclusion: The results of the study provide an insight into the current status of An. gambiae to four major insecticides in northern Nigeria as guideline for mosquitocontrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ticks are considered as the main vectors for the transmission of various pathogens such as relapsing fever and CCHF to humans. This study was investigated the biodiversity indices and medically importance of ticks in North Khorasan Province, Northeast of Iran during 2015–2019. Methods: Specimens were captured from infested ruminants including cows, sheep, and goats. Additionally, tick collections also were performed on non-domesticated creatures such as turtles, rodents, and hedgehogs. Specimens were identified using valid identification keys. Species diversity, species richness and evenness indices have been calculated to estimate species biodiversity of ticks. Results: A total of 1478 adult ticks were collected. The specimens were from two families: Ixodidae (90.05%) and Argasidae (9.95%), 6 genera and 17 species including: Rhipicephalus sanguineus (55.9%), Rhipicephalus bursa (13.4%), Hyalomma marginatum (9.5%), Hyalomma anatolicum (9.5%), Hyalomma asiaticum (0.2%), Hyalomma aegyptium (0.5%), Hyalomma scupense (1.3%), Hyalomma sp (1.2%), Haemaphysalis sulcata (0.7%), Haemaphysalis erinacea (0.1%), Haemaphysalis inermis (0.1%), Haemaphysalis punctata (0.2%), Haemaphysalis concinna (0.1% Boophilus annulatus (1.2), and Dermacentor marginatus (6.1%) among hard ticks as well as Argas persicus (91.8%) and Argas reflexus (8.2%) amongst soft ticks. Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Rh. Bursa, Hy. marginatum and Hy. anatolicum were known as the most frequent species of hard ticks. Tick’s species richness, Shannon diversity index and Simpson index in this area were S= 17, H’= 1.69, D= 0.294 respectively. Conclusion: Based on tick distribution veterinary authority, public health organizations and other officials should act for implementation of disease prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]