Information propagation dynamics on heterogeneous-homogeneous coupling bi-layer networks.

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Network Science
• Communication Studies

Background:

• Multi-platform information proliferation has expanded user communication channels.
• Convergent communication intensifies, leading to cross-platform information dissemination between Social Networking Services (SNS) and Instant Message (IM) apps.
• Understanding information evolution across platforms is crucial for communication law mastery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and model information propagation dynamics across heterogeneous (SNS) and homogeneous (IM) networks.
• To investigate the impact of coupled propagation and platform integration on information diffusion.
• To theoretically derive propagation thresholds and analyze model stability.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a heterogeneous-homogeneous asymmetric coupling two-layer network information propagation dynamics model.
• Theoretical derivation of the propagation threshold (R0) and model stability.
• Simulation using real network datasets to model platform fusion and analyze parameter effects.

Main Results:

• SNS information diffusion is radial and explosive from key nodes; IM diffusion is gradual and multi-cluster via relationship chains.
• Coupled propagation exists between SNS and IM apps.
• Promoting platform integration enhances real-world communication efficiency; IM spreaders significantly increase SNS spreaders.

Conclusions:

• The developed model accurately reflects information propagation across coupled SNS and IM platforms.
• Platform integration is key to improving communication efficiency.
• User behavior, particularly disinterest in dual-platform spreading, significantly impacts information diffusion dynamics.