Open RnSIR model for Information Spread in Social Networks

Abstract

Mathematical model have long been used to understand several real world processes. They provide sufficient clarification and understanding. One such mathematical model in context of viral spread was epidemic model. Since then, this model has been used in various context including the spread of viral diseases in the population, information diffusion in social networks and so on. Recently, to fill in the gap seen in $SIR$ , a closed model, $R_{n}SIR$ was developed. An extension to $R_{n}SIR$ model, an open RnSIR model which includes the join and exit rates of users, is proposed in this paper. Through simulation on various social networks, the suitability of the model in mapping the information diffusion process in context of joining and exit rate of users is shown. This article discusses the dynamism of information spread and proposes a model can be used to understand spread of computer virus, the spread of epidemics.