Abstract
Mathematical models, when based on solid foundations of Biology, can quantitatively describe biological phenomena. In the case of branches of Biology that study disease transmission, the actors are different species of animals and parasites. Methods of mathematical modeling involving populations and flows among sub-populations (as, for example, the natural history of the disease) are appropriate whenever disease causing parasites are propagated in specific populations. The mathematical biology structured in population dynamics can describe biological phenomena such as epidemics of infectious diseases in humans and animals. These mathematical models can be calibrated for a specific disease and then used to evaluate different forms of control and disease prevention with the aim of providing knowledge to choose the most efficient and effective control mechanisms. We can also analyze the minimization of undesirable effects of any chemotherapy, whether in individuals, or in vectors and parasites. Evaluating the control of epidemics in humansand in livestock animals isthe scope of mathematical biology in this project.Brazil is situated in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate regions, where the conditions are favorable for spreading out of infections diseases. In tropical and subtropical regions, due to favorable conditions of humidity and temperature, there are observed recurrent epidemiological outbreaks of vector-borne diseases. However, in temperate regions, due to the increase of temperature caused by global warming up, outbreaks of tropical diseases have expanded their borders. This field of research has made great strides, and a mathematical treatment with good prospects of practical applications in regard to public health in Brazil is of obvious importance. Another important aspectis the fact that Brazil is known having an intense livestock activities. This shows the importance of taking care of its production, and in evaluating methods to control pests and the spread of infection, such as foot-mouth-disease and equine infectious anemia. This project addresses quantitative methods applied to epidemiology and immunology (human and animal). To this end, this project joins researchers form several institutions in the State of São Paulo and elsewhere, as well as other countries. (AU)
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