IxPopDyMod

IxPopDyMod provides a flexible and consistent framework for writing, running, and analyzing reproducible Ixodidae (hard-bodied ticks) population dynamics and infection dynamics models.

Key Features:

• Model Configuration: A function creates valid model configurations for tick population and infection dynamics models.
• Model Execution: A function runs a configured model and returns the daily population over time.
• Reproducibility Framework: The package facilitates creation and sharing of reproducible models for Ixodidae population dynamics.

Scientific Applications:

• Tick Population Modeling: Models population dynamics of Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor albipictus.
• Infection Dynamics Modeling: Models Borrelia burgdorferi infection in ticks.
• Control Method Testing: Models have applications for testing effects of control methods on tick populations.
• Climate Change Impact Assessment: Models have applications for testing effects of climate change on tick populations.
• Public Health Research: Aids in understanding tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease.

Methodology:

The package is implemented in R and provides functions to create valid model configurations and to run configured models returning daily population over time.