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Network Biology, 2011, 1(1): 72-78
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Short Communication

Some steps forward in semi-quantitative networks modelling

Alessandro Ferrarini
Department of Evolutionary and Functional Biology, University of Parma, Via G. Saragat 4, I-43100 Parma, Italy

Received 1 April 2011; Accepted 1 May 2011; Published online 6 May 2011
IAEES

Abstract
System dynamics is an umbrella term for those approaches aiming to understand the behaviour of network-like systems over time. What makes system dynamics different from other methods about complex systems is the use of feedback loops, stocks and ?ows which allow to model how network-like systems can display strong nonlinear behaviours. Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCM) are semi-quantitative networks that can be regarded as a system dynamics method. Here I suggest 4 kinds of modifications to FCM: (1) if-then-else stop option; (2) piecewise option; (3) non-monotonicity option; (4) non-linearity option. These improvements to FCM might allow for fitter simulations of ecological and biological systems over time. I also present an applicative example to illustrate the proposed modifications.

Keywords semi-quantitative networks; fuzzy cognitive maps; if-then-else stops; non-linearity; nonmonotonicity; piecewise model.

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