A Mathematical Model for Tick Transmission of Lyme Disease: Does Questing Style Impact the Competition Between Two Strains of Infection?
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Authors
Wasser, Alexandra J.
Date
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Mathematics , Biology , Lyme Disease , Mathematical Modelling , Ticks
Alternative Title
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi is the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease and there
are multiple strains of B. burgdorferi that exist. There is a perception that all
ticks carry Lyme disease and all bacteria responsible for the disease are equal.
Each strain of B. burgdorferi can be characterised by varying persistence in
a host. By investigating the questing behaviours of ticks, an analysis is
conducted to explore the conditions conducive to different strains. A model
is constructed to reproduce the dynamics of the life cycle of the tick and the
relationship with hosts to replicate natural interactions between the tick and
a host species. The model construction captures the intra-seasonal dynamics
using differential equations and inter-seasonal dynamics using a set of discrete
recursions. Using an invasion analysis, the conditions that allow for mutant
invasion and environmental factors that favour invasion are investigated. The
questing styles, both synchronous and asynchronous, are replicated using
mathematical techniques. It is found that the relative fitness of competing
strains is not impacted by questing style but rather the absolute fitness of
a strain is impacted. A conclusion can be drawn that chronic infection is
predominantly found in asynchronous systems and with the worsening state
of climate change, the persistence of acute infection is less likely.
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This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International