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Sandfly fever is a febrile emerging arboviral illness which is a huge threat posed to public health. Sandfly fever viruses (Sicilian, Naples, and Toscana) are endemic to the Mediterranean region. Evidence suggests an increase in the activity of sandfly-borne phleboviruses and their extension to other places. The infection is relatively benign but may cause severe clinical manifestations and complications. Sandfly fever viruses belongs to the genus Phlebovirus (family Bunyaviridae), and the four main serotypes include sandfly fever Sicilian virus, sandfly fever Naples virus, sandfly fever Cyprus virus, and Toscana virus. Sandfly fever has flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, photophobia, malaise, myalgia, and retro-orbital pain. The incubation period of the disease is 4-8 days, and the patient usually recovers within a week. The first infection provides the host with immunity. Sandfly fever viruses are transmitted through the bites of infected female sandflies, thus, the epidemiology of sandfly fever is closely related to the presence and activity of sandfly species that act as the vectors for transmission. Cases and outbreaks of the disease have been reported worldwide for more than 100 years. All in all, this disease is important for non-endemic countries because it is a travel-related and/or imported illness.

Background: Aggressive behaviors in human and experimental animals have previously been described following induced pain. Aggression in rodents has been attributed to genetic and environmental factors, such as pain. A major complication of scorpion envenomation is severe pain in animals and humans. Considering that envenomation by black scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda) induces severe pain, the present study was conducted to investigate the effects of the venom on inducing aggressive behaviors in rats due to the pain from stinging. Methods: Rats in the control (n=20) and experimental groups (n=20) were injected with 0.5ml physiological serum or 1µg/ml of black scorpion venom dissolved in 0.5ml physiological serum, respectively, in the dorsal vein near the tail. Changes in behaviors were monitored photographically among the rats in both groups. Results: Following the injection of the scorpion venom, considerable agitation and fights occurred among the experimental rats, presumably due to the severe pain induced by the venom. However, there was no such abnormal behavior observed in the control rats and in the experimental rats before the venom injection. Conclusion: The induced pain post envenomation in rats caused violent changes in their behaviors, which were highly likely associated with the venom injection.

In this research, sampling sites were selected randomly in mountainous and desert regions of Kashan. Hard ticks were separated from domestic and wildlife hosts such as cattle, sheep, goats, wolves, foxes, and porcupines. The collected ticks were stored in ethylic alcohol 70% and were identified by microscope stereo using a key in the laboratory. The results showed that there were at least 4 species of hard ticks of the Ixodidae family in Kashan County. Of the 1,498 ticks collected from the Ixodidae family, Hyalomma asiaticum (66.5%), Dermacentor marginatus (14.5%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (0.5%), and Haemaphysalis sulcata (0.25%) were identified. Due to the existence of at least 4 species of ticks from family of Ixodidae, they have a significant role in the health system in terms of the transmission of various diseases. Hyalomma asiaticum tick was diagnosed with high frequency in the region. Hyalomma ticks are of the most important Crimean- Congo hemorrhagic fever vectors that have been reported in Iran.

The five main arbovirus families that cause diseases in humans and other animals are Bunya viridae, Togaviridae, Flaviviridae, Reoviridae, and Rhab doviridae. Chikungunya arbovirus (Togaviridae: Alphavirus), an arbovirus transmitted by Aedes spp., is a well-known global health threat. It has been recognized in more than 60 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Pakistan, the eastern neighborhood of Iran, is one of the endemic foci of this disease. As the largest province of Iran, Sistan- Baluchestan has always been threatened by infectious diseases from abroad due to its geographical location and neighborhood with Afghanistan and Pakistan. Contagious diseases are more likely to occur in the eastern borders of Iran arising from (1) lack or limited jobs due to deprivation of the area, the harsh weather conditions, unbearable conditions, traditional society, and lack of industry development; (2) Lack or limited facilities due to the distance from the center of the country and high percentage of illiteracy or low literacy, and traffic to neighboring countries to trade goods and get a job. Therefore, health authorities should pay more attention to trafficking of illegal aliens, traveling of people to high-risk countries, smuggling of livestock, and strengthening of quarantine posts across borders, especially in the eastern borders of Iran. The first case of chikungunya disease was confirmed in Sistan-Baluchestan province in 2019, where most of the cases have been reported. The findings of the present study provide evidence of chikungunya virus in Iran and emphasize the urgency to increase the preventive standards and surveillance system.

Prediction models are essential for the potential geographic distribution of scorpions, prevention of scorpion stings and diverse applications in conservation biology. There is limited information about habitat suitability and the factors affecting the distribution of Iranian digger scorpions. This study was undertaken to model the distribution of three types of digger scorpion in Iran, Odontobuthus doriae Thorell, Odonthubutus bidentatus Lourenco (Scorpiones: Buthidae) and Scorpio maurus Pocockin (Scorpiones: Scorpionidae), and investigate the factors affecting its distribution using the maximum entropy method. A total of 20 environmental and climate variables were used for modeling and evaluation of the ecological niche. The similarities and differences between the ecological overlap of the digger scorpions were evaluated using comparative environmental niche model (ENM Tools software). The results showed that the main factors for habitat suitability of O. doriae were soil type, mean temperature of the wettest quarter and slope. The variables for S. maurus were soil type, precipitation of the coldest quarter and slope. Annual temperature range, mean temperature of the driest quarter and land use had the greatest influence on the distribution of O. bidentatus. The ecological niches for O. doriae and O. bidentatus overlapped. The niche of these species differed from the niche of S. maurus. This approach could be helpful for the prediction of the potential distribution of three digger scorpion species and this model can be an effective for the promotion of health.

Background: Mosquitoes are responsible for spreading devastating parasites and pathogens causing some important infectious diseases. The present study was done to better understand and update the fauna of Culicidae and to find out the distribution and the type of their larval habitats in Kashan County. Methods: This study was done in four districts of Kashan County (Central, Qamasr, Niasar and Barzok). Mosquito lar-vae were collected from 23 active larval habitats using a standard 350ml capacity mosquito dipper from April to late December 2019. The collected larvae were transferred to containers containing lactophenol, and after two weeks indi-vidually mounted in Berlese's fluid on a microscope slide and identified to species by morphological characters and valid keys. Results: In this study, a total of 9789 larvae were collected from urban and rural areas in Kashan County. The identified genera were Anopheles, Culiseta and Culex. In this study larvae of An. turkhudi, Cx. perexiguus, Cx. mimeticus, Cx. deserticola and Cs. subochrea were collected for the first time from Kashan County. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the presence and activity of different mosquito species in Kashan County that some of them are vectors of arbovirus and other vector-borne diseases.

Background: Biologic and pathogenic contamination of food is the most important cause of illness and death in developing countries. Providing food security during the food preparation for restaurants and selfservices is very important. The aim of this study was to determine level of prepared food contamination with egg, larvae and adult insects, or other health pests. Methods: In a period of 3 years, samples of food (26) suspected to be contaminated with biological agents related to various restaurants and universities’ self-services and were investigated. Organs or larval stages of insects were isolated and were later cleaned using water. The samples were identified using a stereo microscope. The results were compared using images and tables. Results: Contaminated food and fast food including kabab koobideh and celery stew respectively accounted for highest (19%) and lowest (1 case) contamination rate in the present study. The contamination rate of the other studied foods was as follow: Rice and raw milk each respectively 15.5%, Kale pache and soup each 11.5%, Ghorme sabzi, khorest-e-gheyme and hamburger each with 7.7%. Conclusion: Supply of primary healthy food sources and securing food safety during preparation as well as complete and accurate maintenance of food up to the consumption phase are among the most important measures to be considered to prevent food contamination with insect larvae.

Rodents cause large financial losses all over the world; in addition, these animals can also act as a reservoir and intermediate host or vector of diseases. Rodents have an important role in the distribution of diseases in an area. Sometimes, the distribution of a particular disease in an area depends on the distribution of rodents in that area. This study focuses on the distribution of rodent-related diseases in Iran. Rodent-borne and rodent-related diseases and diseases with suspected relationship with rodents have been reviewed in this study. Iran, due to the circumstances in which different species of rodents are able to live, has a high prevalence of certain diseases associated with rodents in urban and rural areas. Awareness about the distribution of rodent-related diseases can be a great help to rodent’s control and prevention against the spread of the diseases.

Background: Scorpions have evermore received considerable attention in Iran due to their medical importance, richness, and frequency. In order to the study scorpions� behavior and bio-ecology, it is important to use the proper method for scorpion catching. The collection and maintenance of the specimens are among the most important parts of every study. Objectives: This article investigated different techniques suitable for capturing scorpions in residential and non-residential areas of Khuzestan province, Southwestern Iran. Methods: Various scorpion species were captured from rural and urban areas of six counties of this province during 26 sampling sessions, using five methods, namely the black light, rock-rolling, scorpion nest digging, old mud walls destruction, and demolition dry mud wall on the edge of channels. Information pertaining to the number of captured samples in each hunting session, geographical locations under investigation and their specifications, number of sampling sessions and hunting site was recorded. Results: In total, 391 scorpions of different species were captured. In this study, six different species were collected using different techniques: rock-rolling (53.7), destruction dry mud wall on the edge of channels (19.7), old mud walls destruction (13.6), black light (11.5), and scorpion nest digging (1.5). The most frequent species were Hemiscorpius lepturus (60.4) and Mesobuthus phillipsi (21.5). Conclusions: The rock-rolling and black light techniques are respectively, recommended for collecting scorpions during the day and at night from both residential and non-residential areas. The combination of these two methods in different areas improves efficiency. © 2019, Archives of Clinical Infectious Diseases.

Mortality as a direct result of venomous snake bites is estimated to be in the thousands worldwide per year. However, while venom may be the primary mortality vector, snake oral cavities can also contain significant pathogens capable of causing infection in bite victims. This study was conducted to identify potentially pathogenic fungal flora in the oral cavities of venomous and non-venomous snakes. Sterile swabs were used to retrieve samples from the oral cavities of different snakes followed by medium-specific culture. Slide culture technology was also used in the identification of fungal flora. Rhizopus and Mucor represented the most common fungal flora each making up 29 % of the total. Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus and Candida represented a significantly smaller portion of fungal pathogen load at around 3 % each. Fungi, Yeast (19.4 %) and Penicillium (9.7 %), were also identified in the retrieved samples. Our results indicate that both venomous and non-venomous snakes carry a significant fungal pathogenic load in their oral cavities. Therefore, fungal infection should be considered, in addition to toxicity, especially in snake bite victims with immune deficiency.

The industrial revolution and the rise of factories and industrial towns caused the increasing production of wastewater that contains hazardous compounds in the aqueous ecosystems. The purpose of this study was to investigate the removal of cyanide from aqueous solutions using yeast of Saccharomyces cerevisiae biomass. In this experimental–interventional study, to measure the concentration of cyanide, the titrimetric method was used. After determining the concentration of cyanide in the samples exposed to the S. cerevisiae yeast, the removal rate was calculated. In the concentration of 5 mg/l of cyanide and at 15, 30, 60, 90 min of contact, yeast weight values of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 g/l, at the pH of 5, 7, 9 were studied. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 16 software. The study showed that with increasing the contact time of the yeast, cyanide removal efficiency increased. Concentration of 0.5 g/l of yeast at pH of 9 and contact time of 15 min had the lowest percentage of removal of cyani...

Hornet wasp or Vespa orietalis is one of the social and stinging insects of Iran that makes its nest mostly in the holes and cracks in the ground. Given the point that no study has been conducted in this case, yet, in this study, the nests of this arthropod are studied in four mountainous and plain areas in Kashan. Present study was of descriptive type and during it four nests of V. orientalis in four agricultural, residential, administrative and mountainous regions were identified and studied. The identification of the nests of these animals was done on the basis of observation abundance of this wasp around the nests, defense and the existence of definite tumulus in farmlands from May to September 2016-2-17. Tumulus, the nest of V. orientalis was irregular in farmland and imperceptible in residential and mountainous regions. The entrance of the nests in the soil was 3 × 5 cm. The nests of this hunter wasp were in the regions where a large number of its feeding arthropods were active. This study showed that the red wasps feed on cockroaches in residential regions, Schirasi woodlouse (Hemilepistus schirasi) and the larvae of butterflies in agricultural lands, and honey bees, larvae of butterflies and other insects in other regions. The results of this study revealed that the nests of V. orientalis as an opportunistic arthropod are seen in different places and if needed, this animal cleans the nests and to some extent it is a builder, occupier or tenant of the nest. The existence of this animal that nests in human habitats causes danger especially for children.

Solpugids are an order of hunter arthropods. They do not have poison glands or sting, but they can hunt animals larger than themselves using their powerful and large chelicerae. Due to their aggressive behavior and scary look, solpugids cause fear and horror in humans. Given the importance of solpugids in terms of causing fear, discomfort and the possibility of infection in case of biting, determining its species was noted in Kashan. This study was a descriptive research. Sixty five specimens of solpugids collected from homes and dormitories in Kashan City by hand-collecting method and were transferred to laboratory. All specimens had been collected from public and commuting places. The collected solpugids were preserved in 70% ethanol and were identified using special and valid keys under stereo-microscope in the laboratory. It was shown that at least 3 species of solpugids from Rhagodidae, Galeodidae and Gylippidae families exist in Kashan. Among 65 solpugids collected, 51% were identified Galeodes caspius, 41.5% Gylippus lamelliger and 7.5% Rhagodes melanochaetus. At least 3 species of solpugids live in 3 families in Kashan that sometimes penetrate the houses and dormitories. Thus, it is recommended that citizens be trained about the importance of these animals in ecosystem and that they know that these animals are not toxic.

Background: Scorpions are one of the most important venomous animals in Iran. Their sting has more prevalence in the south and southwest areas. The aim of this study was to introduce their sting agent species in the country. Methods: Data were extracted by a mini review on scorpion stinging articles in Iran until early 2018 and then the sting agent species in each area were studied. Geographical and provincial distribution of each species also was provided. Results: Twelve scorpion species are causative agents of sting. According to their deadly rate and clinical symptoms, some of them are considered the most dangerous venomous animals in Iran. Some death cases have been reported be­cause of the sting of 3 species of Hemiscorpius lepturus, H. acanthocercus and Androctonus crassicauda. Remaining species have not deadly sting but because of their frequency, they encounter the individuals and cause the stinging. Conclusion: The highest number of sting agents is in Khuzestan, however Gilan and Mazandaran have the lowest fre­quency. Because of the high prevalence of sting agent species in that province, the necessity of providing control and prevention programs is very important.

Background: Velvet ants (Mutillid wasps) are among the venomous and stinging insects, which their existence has been reported from different areas of Iran. Objectives: Since no study has been done so far in Iran in regards to their sting, their clinical complications and their sting are studied for the first time in Kashan. Methods: In this descriptive cross- sectional study that was performed during 2014 - 2015, 49 individuals stung by velvet ants in the residential areas in Kashan were assessed. Identification of the sting agent was according to the morphologic specifications of the collected samples of the insect in the houses of the injured. Sting complications in the individuals were studied according to the clinical manifestation and the time of the sting, which was from June to September. Results: In this study, the sting agent was identified as velvet ants, Dentilla genus. Most sting cases were in the age group of 11 - 20 years with 30.5% and the lowest belonged to the age groups of 31 - 40 and 41 - 50 years. The first sign of the sting was a severe and sharp pain. The highest percentage of redness in the individuals was 47% in the first day, and the lowest belonged to four or five days after the sting with 2%. Intense itching was one of the main symptoms of velvet ant stings. In the final stages of pain and itching, hemolysis and bruise signs were observed as brown spots. Conclusions: Velvet ant stings have not been reported so far from Kashan. Due to the high cases of stinging in the women carpet weaving workshops, their sitting rooms, and bed rooms, it can be concluded that this arthropod is a domestic pest. Therefore, control and prevention of its potential damages must be programmed accordingly.

Scorpions are distributed throughout Iran and the genus Hemiscorpius is particularly important in this region. Hemiscorpius lepturus is the most significant species within the genus in the country. Since scorpionism provoked by Hemiscorpius comprises a medical emergency, the present study is focused on this important issue. In order to perform the present work, a review of the medical and health-related literature was carried out in several databases. The current findings indicate that six species of Hemiscorpius are found in 15 states of Iran, mainly in the south and southwest. Deaths caused by stings were reported only for two species. The morphological characteristics and geographical distribution of H. lepturus in Iran, its venom and the toxic compounds, epidemiologic data and clinical manifestations of envenomation as well as treatment for affected people are herein reviewed and described. H. lepturus venom toxicity differs from other Iranian scorpions regarding duration and severity. Scorpionism is an important public health problem in Iran, especially in southwest and south regions and in urban areas. It is more prevalent in children and young people. H. lepturus venom is primarily a cytotoxic agent and has hemolytic, nephrotoxic and to some extent hepatotoxic activity. The use of polyvalent antivenom to prevent scorpion sting symptoms is recommended. A well-planned health education program might be useful in preventing scorpionism.

Snakebites are a great public health concern in tropical and subtropical countries. It cannot only cause poisoning but also yield some infections in victims. There are some pathogenic agents in snake’s oral flora. This study was carried out to determine bacterial agents existing in the oral cavity of venomous and non-venomous snakes in Kashan, Iran. Using sterile swabs, the samples were obtained in two stages from the oral cavity of 11 venomous and non-venomous snakes before feeding and 3 weeks later. Then, they were cultured on Mac Conkey blood agar mediums. Gram staining of all samples was performed. Appropriate mediums and tests were fulfilled to determine gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The highest rate of infection belonged to coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (34.5 %) and the lowest rate was for Pseudomonas (3.1 %). Salmonella (18.8 %); Escherichia and Providencia (each 12.5 %); and Proteus, Enterococcus, and Bacillus (each 6.2 %) were other contributing pathogens found in snakes oral cavity. The obtained findings demonstrated significant bacterial pathogens in oral cavity of venomous and non-venomous snakes. Therefore, not only anti-venom treatment but also, due the probability of infections, the diagnosis and treatment should be considered in victims.

Due to the medical and therapeutic importance of scorpions in Iranian traditional medicine, this review was conducted on the treatment of scorpion sting as performed by traditional healers in order to realize complications, clinical manifestations, diversities, and deficiencies in the prevention, control, and treatment as mentioned in the pertained literatures. This study tried to make known and investigate attitudes of the Iranian national and traditional medicine towards controlling these venomous animals. Keywords and articles were searched through relevant sites on the Internet. We investigated different journals and references for the Iranian traditional medicine. Based on the articles and books found, we tried to find suitable solutions to problems from the viewpoint of traditional medicine. Scorpion sting dates back to ancient Iran and has been widely reflected in the resources of Iranian traditional medicine. The traditional medicine offers various guidelines that can be beneficial in this respect. New attitude towards scorpion sting with regard to traditional medicine resources can enhance control and prevention of scorpion stings. Consequently, this attitude leads authorities and researchers to a decreased level of scorpion stings or related consequences., Graphical abstract

In this study, a rare chigger mite infestation in Faridan County, Isfahan Province in the central region of Iran has been reported. Several demography data of patients were surveyed. A clinical examination of the whole skin was performed by the physician. 44 patients were admitted to the Mobarakeh Township Clinic Center. On the skin of all the victims, inflammation, irritation and, severe pruritus were observed. The clinical manifestations mostly included acute itching and maculopapular rashes on the trunk and proximal limbs. Infestation rate among women (65.4%) were more than men (34.6%). The highest rate of chigger bites occurred within children ages 4–14 (64.7%). After that the infestation rate was high among with ages 35–44 years old (29.3%). The highest frequency of chigger bite infestation were recorded in July (37.3%), September (34.5%) and August (28.2%), respectively. Successful treatment of patients and their families was achieved following two weeks application of medicines (calamine, dexamethasone and sulfur soap).

In this study, the stony areas surrounding Baghbahadoran City (32° 22‘ 38‘ N, 51° 11‘ 18‘ E) were searched for scorpions during 2018–2019. They were collected using the rock-rolling technique and identified using the identification key to scorpions. The collected specimens included Hottentotta schach. It seems that this is a lithophilic scorpion species. This is the first time this species is reported as a new record from Isfahan Province, central Iran. More species can be probably identified in this province by conducting further studies.

Androctonus crassicauda samples were collected from Isfahan, Khuzestan and Kerman provinces. Sampling methods such as black light, rock-rolling, digging other animal nests in desert zones were used. The characteristics of collecting sites were recorded and analyzed after data extraction. Out of 165 samples of A. crassicauda, 43.6% were Errant, 38.2% were Lapidoculus, 14% were Psamophilic, and 4.2% were Corticoulus. They were collected from the towns and villages, in the gaps and holes under the walls of mud and bricks, inside the caverns and undergrounds, under construction materials, outside residential buildings under the rocks, under the crust of dead trees, and from the nests of other animals. Androctonus crassicauda is from the opportunist group in terms of the selection of habitats; it uses any hole and shelter to protect itself.

Obligatory myiasis is invasion of vertebrate live tissue by fly larvae. This is a case report of genital myiasis caused by Wohlfahrtia magnifica in a sheep from Ghazaan village, near Ghamsar, in south of Kashan town, Iran. A sheep separated from its flock during grazing because of anorexia. Physical exam revealed genital myiasis in animal. Larvaes of fly had caused a deep wound in genital organ of this sheep. All the larvaes were removed from wound and transported to Entomology laboratory of Environmental Health Group, Kashan Medical Sciences University. Laboratory tests determined that larvaes belongs to Wohlfahrtia magnifica species. This is the first report of genital myiasis of sheep in Iran. After removing larvaes, the wound was washed with Betadine a few times, and topical antibiotics were administrated. The wound improved after a few days. The collected larvaes were cultivated in a culture medi-um with fresh meat, reached their maturity, and transformed to pupa. Pupa amounted in laboratory temperature after 5 days. Adult fly was mounted on a stereomicroscope and diagnosed as Wohlfahrtia magnifica. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.15451 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.332-335

Background: Given the importance of arthropods in medical and life sciences and information on the composition of such arthropods in this study was conducted during 2010 in the Kashan. Methods: Descriptive study and sampling at 13 locations and over 39 times in 2303 on the number of larvae, nymphs, Pupa and adults were collected from Lentic and Lotic waters. Samples collected after the transfer to the laboratory using a Stereo microscope and identified using morphological keys used were identified. Results: Total 2303 samples over 39 times the sampling of the Order Diptera, with 1,287 cases (55.8%), crustaceans, with 579 samples (25.2%), Order Trichoptera with 158 samples (6.9%), Order Ephemeroptera 153 samples (6.7%), Order Odonata with 61 samples (2.6%), Order Heteroptera with 26 samples (1.1%), Order Coleoptera with 26 samples (1.1%), Order Plecoptera with 13 sample (0.6) were identified. From Crustacea Class, three orders of the, Amphipoda to 405 numbers (70%) of Lotic water, Ostracoda to 144 (24.9%), Copepoda to 30 (5.1%) from the Lentic waters was collect-ed. Conclusion: In This study, for the first time, from Crustacea subphyllum, order of Ostracoda and Diptera order, Ceratopogonidae, Eryphidae, Dixidae families are reported .Therefore can be concluded that the aquatic arthropods Fauna Kashan is very rich. Considering that some of these insects have a role in the transmission or harassment of human and environmental balance are important, and with molecular methods is recommended that more specific studies done in this field. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v13i3.15448 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.13(3) 2014 p.306-310

Background: Scorpionism is a public health problem in some provinces in Iran. The present study aimed to assess the clinical manifestations of scorpion envenomation in Shiraz and determine a clinical severity grading for Iranian scorpion envenomation in order to suggest a treatment guideline for emergency physicians. Methods: In this analytic retrospective study, all medical charts of patients with scorpion sting admitted in the adult medical toxicology center in Shiraz during July 2012 to July 2016 were assessed. Data regarding the patient's age, gender, sting site, month of envenomation, time of sting, clinical manifestations, vital signs, presence of blood or hemoglobin in urine analysis, duration of admission, color of scorpion, received treatments, and administration of scorpion antivenin were recorded. Results: The scorpions in Shiraz and its suburban area were classified into two groups: yellow scorpions ( Mesobuthus eupeus, Mesobuthus caucasicus , and Compsobuthus matthiesseni) and Hottentotta scorpions (Hottentotta jayakari and Hottentotta zagrosensis). A total of 126 cases of scorpion stings were assessed. About 59% (n=74) were males. The patients aged 8-63 years (mean age, 33.8±11.5 years). About 38.4% (n=48) of the stings occurred during summer. More than 40% of patients (n=51) referred to the emergency department (ED) at night. Localized pain was the most frequent presenting complaint (76.2%). The most frequent general symptom was nausea (6.3%). The most prevalent envenomation site was the lower extremities followed by upper extremities (43.5% and 41.9%, respectively). Based on the clinical severity grading for Iranian scorpion envenomation, 65, 43, and 18 patients (51.6%, 34.1%, and 14.3%) were classified in the grades I, II, and III, respectively. Eighty-one (73%) patients stayed in the ED from 1 to 6 hours, and 30 (27%) patients stayed for >6 hours for observation. Severe localized pain was more prevalent in stings with Hottentotta scorpions than yellow scorpions (P=0.01). The season of envenomation with Hottentotta scorpions was summer in all cases, but envenomation with yellow scorpions was seen throughout the year. All patients received symptomatic treatment, and five were given scorpion antivenin. No death was reported. Conclusion: Hottentotta jayakari is recommended to be listed among the medically important scorpions in Iran. Moreover, scorpion-stung patients in geographical regions where Hemiscorpius lepturus and Androctonus crassicauda are not prevalent may be treated in outpatient departments. The presented grading system can be used for treating patients with scorpion envenomation.

Considering the importance of fungal genera in producing compost from piling organic matter or biodegradable waste, this study aimed to identify the fungal species and their negative effect on human health during the compost production by windrow method. In this descriptive study, 99 compost samples were collected from the composting research site at Kashan University of medical sciences within 63 days from Oct 3 to Dec 4, 2010. Sixty-six samples were cultured to determine the fungal species and 33 samples were transferred to the laboratory to determine the physical and chemical parameters. Twenty-five fungal species were identified during the compost process including 15 saprophytes, 8 dermatophites, 1 opportunistic and 1 yeast fungi. Identified fungal species during the compost process according to their frequencies were Aspergillus spp )34.45%), Microsporium spp (18.89%), Trichophyton spp (8.89%), Yeast sp (6.67%), Mucor sp (5.56%), Penicillium sp )4.45%), Rhizopus sp (4.45%), Fusarium sp (3.34%), Cladosporium sp )3.34%), Curvularia sp (3.34%) and also other fungal species (6.62%), respectively. Considering the presence of various pathogenic fungi during the composting process, the employees of the compost factory should use individual protective devices and also due to the presence of 11 fungal species in the mature compost and their pathogenic effect, preventive measures should be taken by persons involved in the production of compost especially farmers, in order to prevent successive inhalation of spores.

Epidemiological and clinical survey of scorpion envenomation was carried out by statistical method of stratified cluster random sampling in Khuzestan, the southern province of Iran, cross-sectionally. We analyzed 12,150 cases recorded in Emergency Unit of the hospitals of six cities in Khuzestan province during the year 2003. The prevalence rate of human scorpion stings in the province is 3.1/1000 inhabitants. The percentage of prevalence in selected cities was as follows: Masjed-Soleiman (27.1%), Ramhormoz (26.6%), Izeh (15.3%), Shush (12%), Baghmalek (11.7%), and Behbahan (7.3%). The scorpions, responsible for the majority of stings in Khuzestan province of Iran were identified as 53.3% yellow (Mesobuthus eupeus, Hottentotta saulcyi, Odonthobuthus doriae and Hemiscorpius lepturus), and 17.4% black (Androctonus crassicauda and Hottentotta schach), and 29.3% unknown colors. Most stings occurred throughout the year, however, the highest and lowest frequency occurs in June (16.0%) and February (0.6%), respectively. Nocturnal envenomations (60.9%) were more common than diurnal (39.1%), and 39.3% of stings were on the hands and 37.3% on the feet. Most envenomings were mild (74.5%) that all evolved to cure, except for three deaths. Envenomation was characterized by local pain (63.3%), erythema (10.1%), vomiting (1.3%), restlessness (0.6%), hyperthermia (0.5%), sweating (0.4%), and spasmic (0.3%). With respect to the outcoming results, scorpionism in Khuzestan province of Iran is a public health problem, which needs to be monitored carefully by the government.

Due to the importance of animal bites in terms of health impacts, potential medical consequences, and the necessity of proper differentiation between venomous and non-venomous snake species, this study was conducted with the aim of identifying non-venomous, or fangless snakes, in Kashan as a major city in central Iran during a three-year period (2010-2012). A total of 41 snakes were collected; 32(78) Ravergier`s racer Hemorrhois (Coluber) ravergieri, 3 (7%) Zebra Snake (Spalerosophis microlepis), 3 (7%) Braid Snake (Platyceps (Coluber) rhodorachis), one (2%) Desert Sand Boa (Eryxmiliaris), one (2%) Dice Snake (Natrixtessellata), and one (2%) Black-headed Snake (Rhynchocalamus melanocephalus). All snakes were taxonomically identified and confirmed to genus and species. All of the snakes were classified as Aglyphic with 97.5% belonging to the Colubridae family, and 2.5% to the Boidae family.Totally,six non-venomous species were identified, and Hemorrhois (Coluber) ravergieri was observed as the most abundant species in the city of Kashan, which is geographically located at the center of Iran. Although envenomation is usually a specific complication associated with venomous snakes, bacterial infections are a potential significant medical complication associated with both venomous and non-venomous snakebites. © 2016 Rouhullah Dehghani et al.

This descriptive research was conducted so as to find and distinguish the sex of H. lepturus based on 107 dead specimens in the 70% ethyl alcohol and exact decision on their species using a criterion considering all morphological parameters and by the use of stereo microscope. Their biologic behaviors, 50 H. lepturus specimens which were fed and kept alive in capped bottles were studies while their way of shedding and number of newly-born young were also investigated under laboratory conditions in the process. The research revealed that in 107 H. lepturus specimens, 27 specimens (23%) were male and 80 ones (77%) were female. The results gained from 50 scorpions kept in the laboratory showed that only 10 cases (20%) had shed. Duration of emergence varies in each young from 10-20 min and delivery lasts approximately for 4-6 h. The average number of the young born was 24.3 in each delivery. It was concluded that the time of delivery and shedding in H lepturus is definitely fixed during the year and the number ofpectine denticles and length of the tail can be used to differentiate male and female H. lepturus.

The present report describes a family of five infected by parasitic mite, Sarcoptes scabiei in the city of Kashan in central Iran. Family members had to see a doctor due to severe itching at night, insomnia, rash, and burning sensation in the hands and legs, waist, chest and genitals. After the examination, the doctor was suspicious to the contamination caused by mite Sarcoptes, so referred all the family members to a medical laboratory. Father and two sons of the family were infected by mite in their hands, shines, waist, chest, and genitals. Morally, just hands and shins of the mother and daughter were examined, and contamination was determined. The sample provided by microscopic investigation and observation of morphological features was recognized. In terms of ethics and family satisfaction, just pictures were taken from the legs and waist of the son. All infected individuals were treated. For treatment of the family, once a week-use of lindane lotion 1%, and Crotamiton of 10% before sleep every night was recommended. After two weeks, patients were treated, and symptoms were reduced ad the third week and vanished at the fourth week.

The result showed that all the drawers containing the scorpion preservation boxes were found damaged by Dermestes sp. Totally, 210 Dermestes larvae were collected. On a average 15 larvae were collected from each drawer. The length of the mature larva was 10–12 mm. The larvae were oval shaped with bodies covered hearly by strands of hair. The incurred damages to the collections were huge because of lack of supervision.

All houses and student rooms were found infected with sanitary pests, 88% cases were referred to mosquitoes, 69% to ant, 64.5% to cockroaches, 57% to flies, 19% to bees, 7% to scorpions, 5.5% to ticks, 4% to lice, 4% to termite, 2.5% to willow, 2% to ticks and 1% to bug. The cause of severe contamination was unprotected doors, windows, and entrance ways.

Burrows of O. doriae were in slop areas with one side tumulus, having oval entrance, 12–15 mm in small diameter and 25–45 mm in large diameter with the mean length and depth of 38 and 20.5 cm. Whereas burrows of H. schirasi were approximately in flat regions with round tumulus, having circle entrance, 8–11 mm in diameter and the mean length and depth of 80 cm and 62.5 cm. burrows of O. doriae were built as a simple tunnel at 10 cm of the beginning, then followed by spherical shape, continued to end with the slope of 44 to 50 percent. but H. schirasi has tendency to dig semi cylindrical shape borrow as a tunnel with the slope of 80 to 85 percent. the excavated soil texture for O. doriae burrows was soft soil to gravel. but the tumulus structure for H. schirasi burrows consisted of perfectly regular blocks, 1.5 mm in wide and 3.5 mm in length.

Among poisonous animals in Iran, scorpions are considered as the most significant medical arthropods from which the most rate of death has been studied caused by their biting every year. This study is to introduce species of scorpions ’abundance in Aran & Bidgol, Iran. The present research was administered in 2014–2015. During the study samples of scorpions collected in Aran & Bidgol and Kashan, Iran. The collection was done through utilizing ultraviolet light, rock-rolling movement, and digging the nests of tiny animals. The samples were identified in departmental environmental health research laboratory using stereo microscope and species identification key. 7 species out of 137 samples were collected in case area. The highest number with the rate of 29 percent was Odontobuthus doriae species and the lowest number was Compsobuthus matthiesseni species with the rate of 3.75 percent. A species with medical significance as Androctonus crassicauda was collected in cities and villages, splits and holes of muddy walls, cellars and basements, under the construction materials, outside the habitations, under the stones, and through the holes in damp old muddy walls. For the first time, Sassanidothus zarudnyi has been reported in Aran & Bidgol.

the results of this study showed that the mean number of Odonthubutus doriae nests in the southwest and north of Esfahan with Taljerd soil were 4.8 and 19.4 nests per twelve square meter plot respectively. the mean number of O. doriae nests in the northwest and northeast of this city with Golshahr soil were 1.2 and 2 nests per plot (12 m2) respectively. The frequency of O. doriae nests in Taljerd soils were significantly more than the frequency of nests of this scorpion in Golshahr soils in different areas of Esfahan. The Taljerd soils are rich in flora and fauna. Considering the similarity in climate in different areas of the city, it can be concluded that the soil texture is the main factor determining biodiversity in Taljerd soils.

Among Middle Eastern countries, at least 52 species of scorpions, especially dangerous types, have been reported in Iran. This is more than any other country in the region. In addition, in Iran the recorded scorpion stings from 2001 to 2009 were more than 42,500 per year, of which, approximately 19.5 deaths have been reported each year, mostly in spring and summer. About 10 species are responsible for the reported envenoming which belong to the Buthidae family apart from Hemiscorpius lepturus which is a Hemiscorpiidae. The Buthidae family includes: Androctonus crassicauda, Mesobuthus eupeus, Odontobuthus doriae, Hottentotta saulcyi, Hottentotta schach, Compsobuthus matthiesseni, Orthochirus scrobiculosus, Apistobuthus pterygocercus and Olivierus caucasicus. A. crassicauda and H. lepturus are usually cited as the most dangerous species among Iranian scorpions. This article focuses on the main Iranian scorpions and their geographical distribution, especially those which are medically important and considered to be the more dangerous to human, and also attempts to demonstrate an accurate magnitude of scorpion stings in Iran.