A web-based, component-oriented application for spatial modelling of habitat suitability of mosquito vectors

Abstract

This paper proposes a web-enabled computational environment for the spatial modelling of habitat suitability of mosquito vectors. Under a component-based architecture and implemented using an object-oriented data model, we integrate database interfaces, Web feature services (WFS) based on the open GIS consortium (OGC) protocols, and the data-mining tool WEKA, coupled through Java servlet scripts (JSP). The prototype, based exclusively on freely available libraries and software components, provides basic dynamic spatial simulation capabilities using logistic regression to end-users engaged in local and regional health administration and planning but who lack access to specific software and/or detailed knowledge of spatial modelling techniques. The component-based approach facilitates system maintenance and future expansion of functionality, and guarantees the reusability of developed modules in new spatial modelling applications of health and environmental-related phenomena. Functionality of the WWW-application was validated in a study of habitat suitability mapping of the Malaria vector Anopheles darlingi, in an area surrounding the Manso River hydropower plant, Central Brazil. © 2009, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.