%0 Journal Article
%T Some steps forward in semi-quantitative networks modelling
%A Alessandro Ferrarini
%J Network Biology
%D 2011
%I International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences
%X 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.
%K semi-quantitative networks
%K fuzzy cognitive maps
%K if-then-else stops
%K non-linearity
%K nonmonotonicity
%K piecewise model
%U http://www.iaees.org/publications/journals/nb/articles/2011-1(1)/Some-steps-forward-in-semi-quantitative-networks-modelling.pdf