Aedes albopictus, also named “Asian Tiger” mosquito, is a common mosquito species in China. Ae. albopictus is an important vector for a large number of pathogens. In recent years, it has spread from Asia to at least 70 countries worldwide, among the world's top 100 animals that spread most rapidly over the past 20 years. The migration and spread of Ae. albopictus have drawn global attention. This paper aims to review the trend in global distribution and spread of Ae. albopictus from the perspectives of time and space and investigate the influence of its spread and the related control measures.

Objective To investigate the major tick species, their distribution, and the natural infection rate of tick-borne pathogens in Hoxud county of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. Methods Tick samples were collected by flagging method and ectoparasites check, followed by detection of pathogens with PCR. Results A total of 367 ticks belonging to 4 species, 3 genera of the Ixodidae family were collected from six places in this region. Hyalomma asiaticum accounted for 47.41% of the samples (174/367), and Rhipicephalus pumilio 37.60% (138/367). Hence these two are the prodominant species in this area. The specific DNA sequences of 3 kinds of tick-borne pathogens were then detected using PCR amplification. Multiple sequence alignment indicated that the sequences share high homology with the sequences of Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Spotted fever group rickettsia (SFGR) in GenBank databases. Among the tick samples, 18 ticks were detected with Lyme disease borrelia, with a positive rate of 4.90%; four ticks were with A. phagocytophilum, with positive rate of 1.09%. Eleven ticks were positive with SFGR accounting for 3.00% of the samples. Conclusion The natural infection pathogens of Lyme disease, Human granulocytic anaplasmosis and spotted fever were detected in ticks from Hoxud county.

Objective To study the effect of nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of rrf(5S)- rrl(23S) intergenic spacer rRNA in serum for diagnosing suspected Lyme disease patients. Methods Serum samples, epidemiological data, and clinical information of suspected Lyme disease patients were collected. Then, DNA were extracted from the serums and detected by nested PCR and conventional PCR. Results Out of 102 serum samples collected from suspected Lyme disease patients, 39 positive ones were detected by nested PCR, with a positive rate of 38.23%; the bite time of 33(84.62%) was within two months. Only one was positive by conventional PCR, with a positive rate of 0.98%, far less than nested PCR(38.23%). Conclusion For suspected Lyme disease patients' serum samples, nested PCR of rrf(5S)- rrl(23S) intergenic spacer rRNA could be a method to diagnose Lyme disease etiologically.

Objective To investigate the community structure of parasitic fleas on the main rodents in Junggar Basin plague focus, and to analyze the role of each flea species in plague epizootiology. Methods The community structure factors, similarity, and clustering of parasitic fleas on rats in Junggar Basin were determined by community ecology methods. Results The community structures of parasitic fleas on Rhombomys opimus, Meriones meridianus, and Meriones erythrourus were the most complex, with the highest community richness, diversity, and relative rare species number, but without significant dominance. The parasitic fleas on Dipus sagitta had the second most complex community, with a community richness of 8, a mean rare species richness of 12.39 (the highest), a relative rare species number of 50.00%, and a diversity of 1.4838. The communities of parasitic fleas on Meriones tamariscinus and Allactaga sibirica were relatively complicated, with moderate homogeneity and advantages (both between 0.5 and 0.6), and both of them showed a species richness of 5, accounting for 31.25% of all flea species in the focus. In addition, they had mean species richness of 1.38 and 8.65 and relative rare species numbers of 20.00% and 40.00%. The community structures of parasitic fleas on Allactaga elater, Cricetulus griseus, Mus musculus, and Apodemus sylvaticus were simple, all with a relative rare species number of 0 and a mean species richness below 1.00. A. sylvaticus had only 1 species of flea, and the parasitic fleas on A. elater, C. griseus, and M. musculus had community richness of 2-4. The mean value of similarity index between the parasitic fleas on Rh. opimus, M. meridianus, M. erythrourus, D. sagitta, A. elater, C. griseus, and A. sylvaticus and other rats was greater than 0.5, and the mean value of similarity index between the communities of parasitic fleas on M. tamariscinus, A. sibirica, and M. musculus and other rats was less than 0.5. The communities of parasitic fleas on M. meridianus and other rats showed the highest similarity, with a mean value of similarity index of 0.6836, and the similarity index between the communities of parasitic fleas on M. meridianus and 7 species of rats was greater than 0.6, followed by the parasitic fleas on Rh. opimus and D. sagitta, which demonstrated a similarity index greater than 0.5, as compared with those on 6 species of rats. The similarity index between the communities of parasitic fleas on A. sibirica and other rats was the lowest (all below 0.5). The parasitic fleas on M. musculus showed a similarity index greater than 0.5 only when compared with those on M. erythrourus and M. tamariscinus, and had a mean value of similarity index of 0.2812 when compared with the fleas on other rats. The communities of parasitic fleas on the 10 species of rats were clustered into 3 phylogenetic branches (the communities on Rh. opimus, M. tamariscinus, and M. erythrourus, the communities on M. meridianus, and the communities on D. sagitta, A. sibirica, A. elater, M. musculus, A. sylvaticus, and C. griseus). Conclusion The fleas on rodents in the Junggar Basin plague focus exist in complex ecological communities. The communities of fleas on Rh. opimus, M. meridianus, and M. erythrourus are dominant in maintaining the complexity and diversity of fleas, while the communities of fleas on A. elater, C. griseus, A. sylvaticus, and M. musculus are complementary. There is extensive exchange of fleas among the rats in this region, and the fleas on M. meridianus are a key factor for the exchange. Rh. opimus and its fleas play a key role in plague epizootiology in the focus, and M. meridianus and its fleas may promote the prevalence of animal plague.

Objective To investigate the habits and insecticide resistance of Anopheles sinensis and provide a scientific basis for the control of mosquito-borne diseases in Shandong province, China. Methods During 2008-2011, we chose Weishan county of Shandong province as the An. sinensis monitoring site and carried out seasonal surveys using outdoor bait trapping method overnight. The WHO bioassay method was used to test the resistance of An. sinensis to four insecticides. Results According to the situation at the monitoring site during 2008-2011, the An. sinensis density peaked in July. In some areas of Shandong province, An. sinensis had evolved resistance to deltamethrin (resistance level: R) and was still susceptible or developed an initial resistance to acetofenate, propoxur, and cypermethrin. Conclusion AAs for malaria control, the monitoring and control of vector mosquitoes should be strengthened in case that rising An. sinensis density may cause malaria epidemic to return.

Objective To investigate the current situation of surveillance and study on the tick-borne diseases in Zhejiang province, China. Methods By literature research and surveillance data analysis, brief descriptive statistic analysis was performed on the literature and annual surveillance data on the tick-borne diseases in Zhejiang that have been published since 2000. Results Through ten years surveillance and study involving serological and molecular biological methods, more than 10 tick-borne diseases or pathogens, including Lyme disease, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, spotted fever, Bartonella, Rickettsia mooseri, and Boehner kirk austenite, were confirmed to exist in Zhejiang. Besides, the various tick species and tick-borne diseases were found in as many as 23 counties (county-level cities, districts) in Hangzhou, Jinhua, Lishui, Taizhou, Huzhou, Wenzhou, Quzhou, and Shaoxing in Zhejiang. Conclusion The ticks and tick-borne diseases diversified and widespread in Zhejiang province. Although some achievements have been made in the surveillance and study on tick-borne diseases, the surveillance is neither sufficient nor systematic since lack of proper planning. The related information cannot be fully integrated and utilized for risk assessment and early-warning. It is necessary to establish a platform for tick-borne disease surveillance.

Objective To analyze the molecular genetic characteristics of Hantavirus strain DX1101 isolated from the imported Rattus norvegicus. Methods We separated the rat lung, extracted virus RNA, and then used codehop RT-PCR to amplify L gene segment of Hantavirus and nested RT-PCR for M gene segment. The obtained products were then sequenced and analysed by phylogenetic tree. Results Homological and phylogenetic analysis of the two gene amplification products showed that the Hantavirus strain belongs to genetic subtype SEOV. The phylogenetic tree of M gene showed that the strain is genetically closest to the strain IR461 found in England. Conclusion This study identified Hantavirus in R. norvegicus seized from inboard containers. Therefore, it is of great significance to enhance the quarantine of inboard containers.

Objective To investigate the relationship between cytochrome oxidase subunitⅠ(COⅠ) gene traits and molecular evolution of Culex in Wuxi, China. Methods COⅠ genes of Cx. pipiens pallens, Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, Cx. bitaeniorhynchus, Cx. mimulus, and Cx. fuscanus were amplified, sequenced, and blasted in GenBank. Gene traits, transversion rates, and divergence times were analyzed. Molecular phylogenetic trees were generated using Mega 4.1. Results COⅠgene of Cx. mimulus was sequenced for the first time. The COⅠ genes studied were 692 bp to 717 bp. GC contents were from 29.91% to 31.42%. Transversion rates were from 5.610% to 8.555%. Divergence times were from 2.44×10 ⁶a to 3.72×10 ⁶a. Each species of Culex showed high support for a monophyletic group (BPP≥98). Conclusion COⅠ gene has species specificity, and it can be used for the identification of the five species of Culex.

Objective To study the age structure and seasonal changes of Niviventer confucianus population in Loufan ecological zone of Shanxi province, China, in 2011. Methods N. confucianus was caught monthly. The gender of the obtained N. confucianus was identified and then skull specimens were made. The ages of the obtained N. confucianus were examined according to the growth and wear degree of the upper left third molar (M ³). Then the monthly age composition of N. confucianus was determined. Results The yearly proportion of the juvenile and sub-adult N. confucianus in the whole population was nearly 50%. The proportion of adult individuals was 43.13%; Old individuals accounted for only 7.81%, the least. N. confucianus showed significant differences in age composition between different months. The proportions of female individuals in adult and old age groups were less than those of juvenile and sub-adult groups. Conclusion Variation of age composition of N. confucianus in different seasons is obvious. Juvenile N. confucianus exists in each month between July and November and the breeding season is long. The reproductive behavior of adult females may make the mortality rate of females higher than the males', resulting in a declining proportion of female individuals in adult and old age groups.

Objective To compare the effects of mixed chow with different concentrations of Tripterygium or Curcuma on the reproductivity of Microtus mandarinus and determine the appropriate concentration of Tripterygium or Curcuma in mixed chow to reduce the rodent reproductive rate. Methods Healthy mature male and female M. mandarinus were fed with the chow that was mixed with Tripterygium or Curcuma. The palatability, ovarian and testis organ coefficients, and the number of sperms in the testes were calculated. Testicular and ovarian histological sections were prepared. The number of new-born rodents after mating in each group was calculated. Results Compared with the male control group, the male experimental group showed no significant differences in palatability when fed with 0.2 mg/kg Tripterygium-containing mixed chow ( t=1.27, P=0.250) and with 0.3 mg/kg Tripterygium-containing mixed chow ( t=1.42, P=0.124), and so was the comparison between female control group and female experimental group fed with 20 mg/kg Curcuma-containing mixed chow ( t=1.29, P=0.243) and with 30 mg/kg Curcuma-containing mixed chow ( t=1.33, P=0.134). The male experimental group fed with 0.3 mg/kg Tripterygium-containing mixed chow had the lowest testis organ coefficient ( t=2.46, P=0.048), the least number of sperms in the testes ( t=12.11, P=0.000), the smallest seminiferous tubule diameter ( t=13.97, P=0.000), the thinnest germinal epithelium ( t=18.03, P=0.000), the longest incubation period of birth ( Z=1.971, P=0.050), and the least number of offspring ( Z=2.003, P=0.046). The female experimental group fed with 30 mg/kg Curcuma-containing mixed chow had the smallest cross-section of the corpus luteum ( t=14.17, P=0.000), the longest incubation period of birth ( Z=1.973, P=0.049), and the least number of offspring ( Z=2.023, P=0.043). Conclusion The chow mixed with 0.3 mg/kg Tripterygium has the strongest antifertility effect and the best palatability on male M. mandarinus, while the chow mixed with 30 mg/kg Curcuma has the strongest antifertility effect and the best palatability on female M. mandarinus. But it requires further investigation in order to apply the mixed chow reported in this paper as a green rodenticide in farmland and woodland.

Objective To establish a standard system for Rattus tanezumi age divisions in Cangyuan county, Yunnan province, China, and to provide a scientific basis for monitoring and control of R. tanezumi. Methods Trap-at-night method was used during 2010-2011 to capture R. tanezumi in all farming areas of the county. The rats were then divided into different age groups based on nes weight. Results One hundred and ninety-nine rats were collected, 170 of which had an average nes weight of (62.65±2.26) g. According to the nes weight while taking into account the reproductive status and morphological characteristics, the rats were divided into five age groups. Division standards for each group were: infancy group (Ⅰ), nes weight ≤30.0 g; junior group (Ⅱ), nes weight 30.1-55.0 g; adultⅠ group (Ⅲ), nes weight 55.1-85.0 g; adultⅡgroup (Ⅳ), nes weight 85.1-115.0 g, and senior group (V), nes weight >115.0 g. T-test showed that the difference between the mean values of each two groups was of statistical significance ( P<0.01), while the nes weight and body weight showed a positive correlation with statistical significance. Conclusion Nes weight method is simple, relatively precise and easy for grassroot-level surveillance on rodents. It can be recommended as a main method for age determination of R. tanezumi in the field.

Objective To map the land coverage by remote sensing, and to investigate the relationship between land coverage and the species diversity and density of small mammals in Beijing. Methods The 2009 land coverage for Beijing was provided by the MODIS Land Cover Type product (MCD12Q1) from NASA. Small beasts were captured using the trap-at-night method during 2009-2011 for species identification and density calculation. Results According to plant functional type (PFT) scheme, the proportion of urban and construction land was 12.19%, and the proportion of cropland was 39.24%. Natural vegetation accounted for 48.27%, of which 31.28% was covered by broadleaf forests, 10.91% by shrubs, and 3.68% by coniferous forests. The area of grass was relatively small, making up only 2.40% of the total area. Eight hundred and eighty one small mammals belonging to 10 species were captured with trap-at-night method. Of which 871 (98.86%) belonged to nine species of rodents and 10 belonged to one species of insectivores. The species compositions were statistically different in three different habitats including broadleaf forest, shrub, and cropland. The dominant rodents in broadleaf forest and cropland were Niviventer confucianus and Apodemus peninsulae, whereas N. confucianus and Rattus norvegicus were dominant in shrub. Conclusion The major hosts of plague confirmed in China could not adapt to the vegetation landscape with high proportion of trees and shrubs and low proportion of grasses in Beijing. Although the dominant rodents could be infected by Yersinia pestis, there is a small chance of natural foci of plague emerging in Beijing.

Objective To evaluate the insecticide resistance of Aedes albopictus in Tongchuan city and Ankang city of Shaanxi province, China. Methods Distinguishing dosage method was used to measure the mortality rates of Ae. albopictus larvae within 24 h of exposure to three insecticides; median lethal dose (LC ₅₀) method was used to measure the LC ₅₀ of nine insecticides for Ae. albopictus larvae. Results The distinguishing dosage method showed that Ae. albopictus in Ankang and Tongchuan had resistances to dichlorvos, permethrin, and deltamethrin. The LC ₅₀ method showed that for Ae. albopictus in Ankang and Tongchuan, the LC ₅₀ of β-cypermethrin was 0.003 71 mg/L and 0.001 45 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of permethrin was 0.006 25 mg/L and 0.017 67 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of deltamethrin was 0.002 69 mg/L and 0.000 76 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of cypermethrin was 0.017 46 mg/L and 0.009 37 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of DDT was 0.809 54 mg/L and 0.217 06 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of dichlorvos was 0.040 15 mg/L and 0.026 77 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of parathion was 0.002 22 mg/L and 0.003 10 mg/L, the LC ₅₀ of propoxur was 0.348 14 mg/L and 0.651 91 mg/L, and the LC ₅₀ of fenobucarb was 0.157 19 mg/L and 0.543 77 mg/L. Ae. albopictus in the two areas developed higher resistance ratios to dichlorvos, parathion, and propoxur than to other insecticides. Conclusion Insecticides should be used properly to control Ae. albopictus in a geographic area with certain ecological characteristics, so as to retard the development of insecticide resistance in Ae. albopictus.

Objective To investigate the flight capacity of Culex pipiens pallens, which is a main vector of lymphatic filariasis, and to provide a scientific basis for control of Cx. pipiens pallens. Methods Thirteen groups of female mosquitoes with different day-ages (1-10, 15, 20, and 25 days old) and 10 groups of male mosquitoes (day-age 1-10) were chosen with at least 10 mosquitoes in each group. Their flight capacities were measured using flight mills. The comparison of tethered flight behaviors between female and male Cx. pipiens pallens was conducted according to maximum flight distance within one takeoff, maximum flight duration within one takeoff, and mean flight velocity of the maximum flight distance within one takeoff. Results There was no significant difference between male and female Cx. pipiens pallens on Udmax ( F=2.66, P=0.1044). Day-age factor had a significant effect on Udmax ( F=2.15, P=0.0148). Synergy between gender and day-age factors had also a significant effect on Udmax ( F=2.00, P=0.0397). There was extremely significant difference between different day-age groups on Utmax in female populations ( F=2.91, P<0.01). For female mosquitoes, the day-age on the first diffusion peak (day 4), the day-age with lowest flying ability (day 5-6), and the day-age on the second diffusion peak (day 7) were in accordance with the first sucking blood stage, ovarian mature stage, and the beginning time of laying eggs after ovarian maturing, respectively. The dispersal peak of female mosquitoes on day 7 was useful for determining the dispersal range of them. The dispersal peak value of the female mosquitoes on day 20 was useful to judge the sphere of the second blooding-sucking activities during the transmission of lymphatic filariasis. Conclusion There is a significant difference in flight abilities among Cx. pipiens pallens with different day-ages. This difference is in accordance with their biological activities and is meaningful for the prevention and control of lymphatic filariasis.

Objective To investigate the behaviors of individuals of Reticulitermes flaviceps, Reticulitermes chinensis, and Coptotermes formosanus when they meet and the effects of tetracycline, penicillin, and streptomycin on the nestmate recognition in termites. Methods The behaviors of test termites when they met were observed in a Petri dish. Results Intense agonistic behaviors among the individuals of R. flaviceps, R. chinensis, and C. formosanus were observed when they met one another. Of them, C. formosanus had the strongest attack ability, and there was no significant difference in attack ability between R. flaviceps and R. chinensis. When treated with tetracycline, penicillin, and streptomycin separately, the individuals of C. formosanus showed intense agonistic behavior when they met one another, suggesting that the three antibiotics influenced the nestmate recognition in C. formosanus. Conclusion The individuals of different species of termites would attack one another when they meet, and antibiotic treatment would influence the nestmate recognition in termites.

Objective To investigate the species composition of aquatic flies in the water sources of the wild-release area for Przewalski's horses in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. Methods The investigation was conducted by insect taxonomy. Results Lispe was the common aquatic fly in the water sources. Nine species of Lispe were identified, occupying 90% of known species of Lispe in Xinjiang and 21% in China. Lispe appendibacula Xue et Zhang, 2005 was first found in Xinjiang, with updated description of identification characteristics and quantified variation range of morphological characteristics. Conclusion There are abundant species of Lispe in Xinjiang.

The biting midges (in the family Ceratopogonidae) in various habitats in Nanchang city, Jiangxi province, China were investigated from 2008 to 2010, and a new species of the subgenus Forcipomyia of biting midges was found by identifying the collected samples. The new species was Forcipomyia (Forcipomyia) hongdouensis Yu, Liu et Chen, sp. nov., named after Hongdu park, Qingyunpu town, Nanchang city, where its samples were collected. The specimens of the new species were deposited in the Medical Entomology Collection Gallery, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Chinese Academy of Military Medical Sciences (20 Dongda Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071). Forcipomyia (Forcipomyia) hongdouensis Yu and Liu sp. nov. (Figure 1) Diagnosis: Male: of large size; compound eyes bare, and the 3rd segment of palpus slender and with a light sensory pit; the distal 4th segment of flagellomere elongated, and the 12th segment longest; legs pale yellow without any spot; TR<1, hind tibia with 8 terminal bristles, and 13 comb teeth; aedeagus long shield-like and paramere X-shaped. Wing length 1.64 mm, width 0.41 mm; TR<1, TR(Ⅰ) 0.58, TR(Ⅱ) 0.31, TR(Ⅲ) 0.37. F-T(Ⅰ) 96:101:28:48:30:22:15, F-T(Ⅱ) 108:118:20:64:33:22:15,F-T(Ⅲ) 110:123:26:70:36:26:15. This new species has a highly distinctive palpus different from that of other species of the subgenus Forcipomyia, because of its light sensory pit. But it resembles to F.(F.) fuliginosa (Meigen), 1818 and F.(F.) intosa (Chan and LeRoux,1971) in the structure of the genitalia; it is also similar to the F.(F.) striaticornis (Kieffer),1902, in the structures of the aedeagus and paramere, but is distinguished by the light branch of aedeagus. Holotype: Male ( ♂). 2010-10-28, collected from Hongdu park, Qingyunpu town, Nanchang city, Jiangxi province, China. Deposited in the Medical Entomology Collection Gallery, Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Chinese Academy of Military Medical Sciences (20 Dongda Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071). Female: Unknown.

Objective To investigate the relationship between the community structure of acaroid mites and their habitat in the breeding environment for Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker. Methods One hundred samples were collected at several points in a E. sinensis Walker farm in North Anhui province, China. The collected samples underwent isolation, identification, and counting as well as analysis of the ecological diversity. Results Eight species of acaroid mites, belonging to 6 genera under 3 families, were identified from the breeding environment, with a mean breeding density of (95.07?9.54) mites/g, a richness index (Margalef index) of 2.127, an evenness index (Pielou index) of 0.939, a diversity index of 1.972, and a dominance index of 0.872. The community of acaroid mites consisted of Caloglyphus berlesei (69.3%), Tyrophagus putrescentiae (10.6%), Acarus siro (9.2%), Dermatophagoides farinae (5.4%), and other species (5.5%). Conclusion Acaroid mites multiply seriously in the breeding environment for E. sinensis Walker in North Anhui province. Of the acaroid mites, C. berlesei is the dominant species and tends to live on decayed materials.

Objective To investigate the pathogenic bacteria carried by Blattella germanica in the urban communities of Henan province, China by 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Methods A universal primer for 16S rRNA was designed, and the single colonies isolated from the body surfaces or inside the bodies of B. germanica samples were treated by PCR amplification with the primer. The amplification products were sequenced and then identified using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST), and the sequences that shared the highest similarity with the amplification products were selected. Results The identified pathogens included 2 pathogenic bacteria, Shigella flexneri and Salmonella enteria subsp. enterica, 5 conditionally pathogenic bacteria, Enterobacter cloacae, Citrobacter koseri, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Serratia sp., and 2 engineering bacteria, Bacillus halodurans and B. amyloliquefaciens. Conclusion In the urban communities of Henan province, B. germanica is a pathogen vector, which cannot be neglected; 16S rRNA sequence analysis can be used as a method for rapid identification of pathogens, which is helpful to vector risk assessment.

Objective To investigate the infestation and population distribution of cockroaches in the market and the pesticide resistance of Blattella germanica to provide a basis for comprehensive control measures. Methods The infestation of cockroaches was investigated by visual inspection; the density of cockroaches was measured by cockroach glue board; the pesticide resistance of B. germanica was determined by residual film method. The pesticides to which the cockroaches were sensitive were used for comprehensive control. Results The infestation rate of cockroaches in the market was 86.67%, and the density was 4.19 cockroaches/board/night. The levels of resistance (folds) of B. germanica to beta-cypermethrin, deltamethrin, propoxur, chlorpyrifos, dimethyl dichloroviny phosphate (DDVP), cypermethrin, permethrin, tetramethrin, and azamethiphos were 2.65, 3.82, 1.77, 3.51, 11.19, 5.21, 6.51, 12.00, and 2.11, respectively. The pesticides to which the cockroaches were sensitive and developed low resistance achieved a killing rate of 96.19%. Conclusion There is a high infestation rate of cockroaches in the market of Wuhan city, China. B. germanica is the dominant species of the cockroaches and has developed high resistance to DDVP and tetramethrin. Comprehensive control measures, including environmental treatment and pesticide use, should be taken to control the density of cockroaches below a harmless level.

Objective To investigate an incident of bedbug infestation in a passenger train in Wuhan, China, manage the incident by emergency disposal, and observe the control effects continually, and to provide a basis for scientific emergency disposal methods and effective control measures for bedbug infestation in passenger train. Methods Visual inspection, needle picking, and pesticidal stimulation were used to investigate the bedbug infestation in the passenger train. The control effects were observed for 2 consecutive years. Results The bedbug infestation rate was 2.59%, and the infestation was concentrated in the couchettes (100%), mostly distributed at the lower berths (66.67%) and hidden in the gaps between bed boards and board walls. Scientific disposal methods and long-term control measures were taken accordingly and achieved reliable and durable control effects. Conclusion The bedbugs were brought into the passenger train, and control measures should focus on the couchettes. The emergency disposal should be early, careful, and strict and well implemented. Long-term effective control measures are fundamental for preventing bedbugs in passenger train．

Objective To investigate the epidemiological characteristics, epidemic trend, and risk factors for rabies in Jiaxing city, Zhejiang province, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of rabies. Methods The data from the case questionnaires and post-exposure treatment outpatient clinics for rabies, which were reported by the notifiable reporting and surveillance system for epidemics in Jiaxing city from 1983 to 2011, were collected and analyzed. Results Fifty rabies cases were reported from 1983 to 2011 in Jiaxing, with an annual incidence rate not higher than 0.29/10 ⁵. There were two epidemic peaks. The annual number of cases was 1-5 from 2006 to 2011. Each county (district) of Jiaxing had at least one case reported, and 94.44% of all cases were from rural areas. More cases occurred in summer and autumn than in other seasons. The ratio of male to female cases was 1.78:1, and most of the cases were aged 5-9 years and 60-64 years. All suspected animals which might cause rabies had no history of immunization before. All cases were not subject to post-exposure wound treatment and vaccination. Conclusion The low immunization rate and failure of timely standardized wound treatment after exposure were associated with the epidemic situation of rabies in Jiaxing city, Zhejiang province, China. Therefore, measures should be taken to enhance the management of dogs, increase the vaccination rate of animals, further spread the knowledge about rabies control to the public, lower vaccination expense, and increase the rates of post-exposure wound treatment and rabies vaccination in Jiaxing, especially in the rural areas.

Various synthetic and plant-derived mosquito repellents have been developed over a long period to control the feeding behaviors of mosquito, which is the vector of fulminating infectious diseases including malaria. However, traditional repellents are facing challenges due to their adverse effects, narrow spectrum, and low effectiveness. Along with the progress in research on insect's olfactory system and repellent mechanism, it was found recently that VUAA1, an agonist for olfactory co-receptor and capable of over-activating an insect's olfactory receptor, shows promise for mosquito control. This paper aims to review the development of mosquito repellents and advances in research on repellent mechanism.

There was an outbreak of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O104:H4 infection in Germany from May to August in 2011. It started from North Germany, soon swept across the whole country, and then spread to the rest of Europe and North America. EHEC O104:H4 infection is a new infectious disease occurring in the new century and has attracted worldwide attention due to its strong pathogenicity and fast transmission. So far the disease has not been reported in China, but with the globalization, it is necessary to understand and prevent the disease. This paper aims to review the advances in the research on EHEC O104:H4 in terms of etiology, rapid detection, pathogenesis and symptoms of associated diseases, and preventive measures.

Blattella germanica has become a worldwide pest that is the most difficult to control. This paper reviews the population characteristics of insecticide B. germanica and how to scientifically monitor its insecticide resistance, accurately describe the resistance level of its population,and effectively utilize the monitoring data, so as to investigate the seasonal adaptation and timely control of B. germanica and the application of metapopulation theory in the population density control of B. germanica in urban areas.

Objective To clarify the members of Anopheles hyrcanus group in some regions of China. Methods The members of An. hyrcanus group were identified by morphology, and the sibling species of An. hyrcanus group were determined by PCR and molecular identification. The molecular identification was based on the analysis of rDNA-ITS2 and rDNA-28S-D3 sequences. Results A total of 1259 Anopheles samples were collected from 20 sites in 12 provinces of China. The molecular identification results showed that 1237 of the samples belonged to An. hyrcanus group, and the remaining 22 belonged to 3 other species of Anopheles. The members of An. hyrcanus group were An. sinensis, An. lesteri, An. yatsushiroensis, An. kweiyangensis, An. junlianensis, An. kleini, An. belenrae, and 3 unidentified species (LL1, LL2, and LL3). The population density of An. sinensis was the highest in most collection sites. Conclusion The An. hyrcanus group is complex. It is important to identify the members of this group and their distribution by comprehensive analysis.

Objective To evaluate the application of multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) and multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) in the genotyping of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. Methods Thirty-one strains of B. burgdorferi sensu lato were genotyped by MLVA and MLSA, and the genotyping results were subjected to comparative analysis. Results The MLVA showed that the 31 strains were divided into 4 clusters, with 24 genotypes, 21 of which were unique genotypes; the clustered rate was 24/31, and the distinguishability was 0.969. The MLSA showed that the 31 strains were divided into 4 clusters; every strain was able to be identified separately, but there were 3 nodes with bootstrap values lower than 50%. Conclusion Both MLSA and MLVA are suitable for the genotyping of Lyme disease Borrelia, and a combination of MLVA and MLSA are very useful for genotyping of those uncertain strains.

Objective Objective This study was carried out to know deltamethrin resistant level in Aedes albopictus wild population in Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, to know the enzyme activity of mixed function oxidase(MFO), non-specific esterase(NSE)and glutathione-S-transferases(GSTs), so as to provide evidence for deltamethrin resistant management and for dengue vector control. Methods Using Ae. albopictus laboratory(lab) strains as reference and the WHO recommended adult mosquito pesticide resistance test bioassay the resistance level was evaluated, meanwhile,enzymes’activity was tested by microplate reader. Collected data was analyzed by SPSS 20.0 software to compare the enzymes’activity and the variation between the field and laboratory populations, frequency distribution of enzyme activity, and the relationship between each enzyme’s activity and protein content of mosquito individual. Results Ae. albopictus had developed high resistant to the deltamethrin in Zhanjiang area. Compared with lab strain, the enzyme activity ratio of MFO, NSE, GST in the wild population was 1.67-, 1.91- and 1.96- folds respectively, and there was significant difference between two populations( P ＜ 0.05) on the three tested metabolic enzymes. The distribution of enzyme activity in Zhanjiang population showed a positively skewed distribution. The reshowed that GST was the main metabolic enzyme contributed to the resistantce, with 72.73% resistant individuals, followed by NSE with 59.76% resistance individuals. There were also some individuals had developed resistance to two or three metabolic enzymes in Zhanjiang population. Conclusion Ae. albopictus had developed high resistance to deltamethrin,its resistance mechanisms might be related to MFO,NSE and GST,especially to GST. More attention should be paid to Ae. albopictus pesticide resistance surveillance to make a suitable strategy for pesticide resistance management.

Objective To monitor the seasonal changes in the population density, dengue virus carriage, and dichlorvos resistance of Aedes albopictus in the urban and rural areas of Guangzhou city, China and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of dengue fever. Methods The population densities of Ae. albopictus in different seasons were monitored with Aedes traps in urban Guangzhou (Baiyun district) and rural Guangzhou (a village in Conghua city). RT-PCR was used to detect the dengue virus carried by the field population of Ae. albopictus. The dichlorvos resistance of Ae. albopictus was evaluated by larva dip method. Results In the urban and rural areas of Guangzhou, there were significantly different positive indices in the four seasons. The population density of Ae. albopictus reached the peak level in summer［for urban and rural areas, mosquito and oviposition positive index (MOI)＝40.54 and 38.14; mosquito-trap positive index (MI)＝35.14 and 37.63; oviposition index (OI)＝36.49 and 29.90］; the population density was the lowest in winter, but with MOI and MI above zero. No dengue virus was detected in Ae. albopictus. In the urban area, Ae. albopictus had low resistance to dichlorvos in spring and autumn, with a resistance index (RI) greater than 2, and it was sensitive to dichlorvos in summer, with an RI less than 2. In the rural area, Ae. albopictus had a higher RI to dichlorvos in spring and autumn than in summer, but it was sensitive to dichlorvos in all the three seasons, with an RI less than 2. Conclusion Ae. albopictus can be monitored all year round in the urban and rural areas of Guangzhou, and its population density is the highest in summer. Dengue virus is not detected in Ae. albopictus. Dichlorvos has a good performance in killing mosquito larvae, but it should be applied at the appropriate time.

Objective To investigate the species number, species diversity, and faunal characteristics of Calyptratae in Lvliang Mountain area of Shanxi province, China. Methods The investigation was conducted by biodiversity analysis and insect taxonomy. Results There were 408 species, 131 genera, and 11 families of Calyptratae in the Lvliang Mountain area. Muscidae, accounting for 51.79% and 40.20% of all known Calyptratae genera and species in this area, and Anthomyiidae, accounting for 62.80% and 22.30% of all known Calyptratae genera and species in this area, were predominant at both genus and species levels. In this area, there were 14 endemic species, accounting for 3.43% of the total species, 176 Palaearctic species, accounting for 43.14% of the total species, and 98 Palaearctic and Oriental species, accounted for 24.02% of the total species. The diversity indices at the genus and species levels were 2.03 and 1.65, respectively. Conclusion Species diversity, endemic species diversity, and faunal diversity are seen in Calyptratae in Lvliang Mountain area of Shanxi province. The faunal composition mainly includes Palaearctic species, followed by Palaearctic and Oriental species and other faunal components.

Objective To investigate the community compositions and population densities of rodents in the rural areas along Qinghai-Tibet Railway inside Qinghai province, China and to prevent the migration of rodent pests between Tibet and the outside regions along the Qinghai- Tibet Railway and the transmission of rodent- borne diseases such as plague along this railway. Methods Trap-at-night method was used in the farmlands and farmhouses in Huangyuan county, Haiyan county, Gangcha county, Wulan county, Delingha city, and Geermu city along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway inside Qinghai province. Results In the farmlands, 2377 snap traps were used; 129 rodents (8 species) were captured, and 1 residual body of rodent was collected; Mus musculus, Cricetulus longicaudatus, and Microtus limnophilus were the dominant species. In the farmhouses, 760 snap traps were used; 38 rodents were captured, and 1 residual body of rodent was collected; M. musculus and Rattus tanezumi were the dominant species. In the farmlands, the rodent density was the highest in Wulan county (12.45%) in August 2010; in the farmhouses, the rodent density was the highest in Delingha city (12.77%) in August 2010. Conclusion There are settled populations of R. norvegicus and R. tanezumi in Geermu city and settled population of R. tanezumi in Huangyuan county. Surveillance should be enhanced to prevent migration of these rodents into Tibet along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Control measures should be taken where the rodent densities are high.

Objective To investigate the species composition and distribution of parasitic fleas on small mammals in Shangri-la county, Yunnan province, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the study on the epidemic foci of Marmota himalayana plague in the high-altitude areas of Northwest Yunnan. Methods Field investigation was conducted in four landscape areas with altitudes of 2500-4900 m in 6 villages or towns of Shangri-la county during June to July 2011. Small mammals were captured by trap rows, cages (in the daytime), snares, derrick knots, and caves; fleas were collected from them by combing and picking and were then classified and counted. Results A total of 334 fleas (26 species, 15 genera, 7 subfamilies, and 3 families) were collected from the body surfaces of 425 small mammals (21 species, 14 genera, 7 families and subfamilies, and 4 orders). Of the collected fleas, Frontopsylla diqingensis and Ctenophthalmus quadratus were found more frequently, accounting for 33.53% and 13.17%, respectively. It was the first time to detect and collect Callopsylla dolabris and Ceratophyllus silantiewi from the body surfaces and caves of M. himalayana, which were the main vectors in the epidemic foci of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau marmot plague, and the two species accounted for 11.38% and 6.59%, respectively, of the parasitic fleas. Conclusion F. diqingensis is the dominant species in the study areas, distributed at different altitudes and in all the four landscape areas. The nominate subspecies of Neopsylla specialis is not in centralized distribution at any altitude or landscape area, which is different from Yulong and Jianchuan foci of plague. The existence of C. dolabris and C. silantiewi on M. himalayana gives an important clue to the study on the epidemic foci of M. himalayana plague in this area.

Objective To determine the nymphal instar of Blattella germanica by observing its ecdysis and acquire the physical characteristics of B. germanica in different nymphal instars, and to provide a basis for judging the nymphal instar of B. germanica in the field work and laboratory study and standardizing the experimental study of B. germanica. Methods Egg capsules were collected from female adults of B. germanica and then hatched to obtain nymphs. The nymphs were fed, and their ecdysis and instars were observed and recorded every day. The head width, body length, and body weight of the B. germanica in each nymphal instar were measured to statistically analyse the correlation between the nymphal instar and these physical characteristics. Results In the laboratory, the nymph of B. germanica went through six instars, with durations of (13.00±1.29), (11.17±1.17), (12.33± 2.07), (10.20± 1.10), (10.50± 1.05), and (9.50± 1.05) days, respectively, and there were no significant differences among the instars. From the first to the sixth instar, the head widths were (0.99±0.16), (1.03±0.15), (1.62±0.19), (1.83±0.22), (2.02±0.21), and (2.05±0.22) mm, respectively; the body lengths were (3.69±0.35), (5.27±0.57), (7.03±0.70), (9.48±0.67), (11.19±0.61), and (11.48±0.44) mm, respectively; the body weights were (2.39±0.11), (8.70±0.69), (17.64±5.27), (37.97± 5.04), (50.66±9.23), and (66.20±11.60) mg, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation of the nymphal instar of B. germanica with the head width, body length, and body weight ( r＝0.9539, 0.9854, and 0.9879). Conclusion Under the relatively stable conditions, the B. germanica in different nymphal instars shows the most significant change in body weight, followed by body length, so the nymphal instar of B. germanica can be judged by its body weight, body length, and head width.

Objective To prepare chlorpyrifos穎ipronil microcapsule suspension (CS) and analyze the influence of encapsulation parameters on the quality indices of microcapsules, and to investigate the control effect of this product on Blattella germanica. Methods The CS was prepared by in-situ polymerization. The control effect of the CS on B. germanica was evaluated by forced contact and simulated indoor trials. Results Gelatin was the optimal surfactant to prepare chlorpyrifos穎ipronil CS. When the weight percent of gelatin was 0.5%, the encapsulating rate of effective components was above 97%, and the microcapsules with uniform and smooth shapes and moderate diameters and wall thickness were obtained. Chlorpyrifos穎ipronil CS showed excellent performance in killing B. germanica. When the dose of CS was 20 mg穉i/m ₂, the KT ₅₀ value for B. germanica was 9.8 min, and the 24 h mortality of B. germanica was 100%. The CS had sustained control effect. When brought into contact with B. germanica at 90 d after initial use, the CS achieved a killing rate of 100% within 14 d, demonstrating a significantly better performance than the emulsion product as a control (80.5%). When applied at a dose of 20 mg穉i/m ₂, the CS achieved a killing rate of 99% within 30 d, and its control effect lasted for one year. Conclusion Chlorpyrifos穎ipronil CS shows excellent performance in killing B. germanica and has sustained control effect, which can reduce the amount of pesticide and the frequency of pesticide application.

Objective To determine the susceptibility of Meriones unguiculatus to sodium diphacinone. Methods Baits containing high, medium, and low concentrations of sodium diphacinone were given to M. unguiculatus raised in the laboratory to test the acute toxicity of this rodenticide. Results The mortality rate was 100% in the M. unguiculatus receiving baits with different concentrations of sodium diphacinone. Although the lethal time was a little shorter in the M. unguiculatus treated with high-concentration bait, the total intake of sodium diphacinone was significantly lower in female and male M. unguiculatus treated with low-concentration bait (0.457 mg and 0.394 mg) than in those treated with medium-concentration bait (0.704 mg and 0.834 mg) and those treated with high-concentration bait (1.614 mg and 1.358 mg). Conclusion Use of the bait with low concentration of sodium diphacinone can reduce the cost of rodent control, and it can delay the development of rodenticide resistance, thus prolonging the service life of sodium diphacinone.