Repairing trust in an e-commerce and security context: an agent-based modeling approach

2014 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 490-512 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jae Choi ◽  
Derek L. Nazareth
Keyword(s):  
Design Science ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Online Purchases ◽  
Trust Relationships ◽  
Trading Partners ◽  
Science Framework ◽  
Customer Trust

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to study the critical role of trust in electronic commerce extensively in the context of establishing initial trust between trading partners. Ongoing trust between partners can quickly be eroded through security or other trust violations. This paper examines whether customers are willing to transact with an eCommerce vendor in light of security and trust violations. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws upon research in professional trust relationships and adapts it to the e-commerce context to create a process view of trust violation and repair. Using a design science framework, this paper employs agent-based modeling as the simulation technique to study the implications of security and trust violations on the willingness of customers to continue transacting with the vendor. The simulations are conducted for a variety of trust violations and reconciliation actions. Findings – While some of the results are predictable, the key finding for managers is that moderate reconciliation tactics are effective for all cases but the most severe trust violations, where trust is irrevocably broken. This has clear financial implications, particularly in cases where vendors may operate with small margins in competitive markets. Originality/value – Given the increasing push toward mobile and Internet-based commerce, and the large range of possible trust violations and security incidents in online purchases, coupled with increasing competition among vendors, it becomes imperative for vendors to provide effective tactics to repair customer trust violations when they arise.

scholarly journals Agent-Based Modeling Demonstrates How Local Chemotactic Behavior Can Shape Biofilm Architecture

mSphere ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily G. Sweeney ◽  
Andrew Nishida ◽  
Alexandra Weston ◽  
Maria S. Bañuelos ◽  
Kristin Potter ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Helicobacter Pylori ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Emergent Properties ◽  
Cellular Interactions ◽  
Biofilm Growth ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
H Pylori

ABSTRACTBacteria are often found living in aggregated multicellular communities known as biofilms. Biofilms are three-dimensional structures that confer distinct physical and biological properties to the collective of cells living within them. We used agent-based modeling to explore whether local cellular interactions were sufficient to give rise to global structural features of biofilms. Specifically, we asked whether chemorepulsion from a self-produced quorum-sensing molecule, autoinducer-2 (AI-2), was sufficient to recapitulate biofilm growth and cellular organization observed for biofilms ofHelicobacter pylori, a common bacterial resident of human stomachs. To carry out this modeling, we modified an existing platform, Individual-based Dynamics of Microbial Communities Simulator (iDynoMiCS), to incorporate three-dimensional chemotaxis, planktonic cells that could join or leave the biofilm structure, and cellular production of AI-2. We simulated biofilm growth of previously characterizedH. pyloristrains with various AI-2 production and sensing capacities. Using biologically plausible parameters, we were able to recapitulate both the variation in biofilm mass and cellular distributions observed with these strains. Specifically, the strains that were competent to chemotax away from AI-2 produced smaller and more heterogeneously spaced biofilms, whereas the AI-2 chemotaxis-defective strains produced larger and more homogeneously spaced biofilms. The model also provided new insights into the cellular demographics contributing to the biofilm patterning of each strain. Our analysis supports the idea that cellular interactions at small spatial and temporal scales are sufficient to give rise to larger-scale emergent properties of biofilms.IMPORTANCEMost bacteria exist in aggregated, three-dimensional structures called biofilms. Although biofilms play important ecological roles in natural and engineered settings, they can also pose societal problems, for example, when they grow in plumbing systems or on medical implants. Understanding the processes that promote the growth and disassembly of biofilms could lead to better strategies to manage these structures. We had previously shown thatHelicobacter pyloribacteria are repulsed by high concentrations of a self-produced molecule, AI-2, and thatH. pylorimutants deficient in AI-2 sensing form larger and more homogeneously spaced biofilms. Here, we used computer simulations of biofilm formation to show that localH. pyloribehavior of repulsion from high AI-2 could explain the overall architecture ofH. pyloribiofilms. Our findings demonstrate that it is possible to change global biofilm organization by manipulating local cell behaviors, which suggests that simple strategies targeting cells at local scales could be useful for controlling biofilms in industrial and medical settings.

Use of a sonification system for science learning by people who are blind

2016 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 187-198 ◽  
Author(s):  
Orly Lahav ◽  
Nuha Chagab ◽  
Vadim Talis
Keyword(s):  
Complex Systems ◽  
Conceptual Knowledge ◽  
Science Curriculum ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Learning System ◽  
Learning Ability ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
K 12

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine a central need of students who are blind: the ability to access science curriculum content. Design/methodology/approach Agent-based modeling is a relatively new computational modeling paradigm that models complex dynamic systems. NetLogo is a widely used agent-based modeling language that enables exploration and construction of models of complex systems by programming and running the rules and behaviors. Sonification of variables and events in an agent-based NetLogo computer model of gas in a container is used to convey phenomena information. This study examined mainly two research topics: the scientific conceptual knowledge and systems reasoning that were learned as a result of interaction with the listen-to-complexity (L2C) environment as appeared in answers to the pre- and post-tests and the learning topics of kinetic molecular theory of gas in chemistry that was learned as a result of interaction with the L2C environment. The case study research focused on A., a woman who is adventitiously blind, for eight sessions. Findings The participant successfully completed all curricular assignments; her scientific conceptual knowledge and systems reasoning became more specific and aligned with scientific knowledge. Practical implications A practical implication of further studies is that they are likely to have an impact on the accessibility of learning materials, especially in science education for students who are blind, as equal access to low-cost learning environments that are equivalent to those used by sighted users would support their inclusion in the K-12 academic curriculum. Originality/value The innovative and low-cost learning system that is used in this research is based on transmittal of visual information of dynamic and complex systems, providing perceptual compensation by harnessing auditory feedback. For the first time the L2C system is based on sound that represents a dynamic rather than a static array. In this study, the authors explore how a combination of several auditory representations may affect cognitive learning ability.

Facilitating organizational learning through agent-based modeling and simulation experimentation

2016 ◽  
Vol 23 (6) ◽  
pp. 429-443 ◽  
Author(s):  
Saša Baškarada ◽  
Arvind Chandran ◽  
Mina Shokr ◽  
Christopher Stewart
Keyword(s):  
Organizational Learning ◽  
Modeling And Simulation ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Knowledge Generation ◽  
Generation Process ◽  
Complex Environments ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Internal Knowledge

Purpose In addition to requiring high absorptive capacity, contemporary organizations operating in highly dynamic and complex environments also require the ability to create knowledge internally, within the organization. While the organizational learning (OL) literature has produced a plethora of theories and frameworks, there has been relatively little empirical research on specific mechanisms for internal knowledge generation. Accordingly, this paper aims to answer calls for more research on mechanisms for internal generation of organizational knowledge. Design/methodology/approach This paper is an in-depth case study in the Australian Defence Organisation (ADO). Findings The paper presents a cyclical eight-stage knowledge generation process and demonstrates how agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) may be used to facilitate OL. Originality/value By detailing an in-depth case study of an ABMS mechanism for internal knowledge generation in the ADO, this paper provides a novel and relevant contribution to the OL literature.

scholarly journals Understanding Lactobacillus paracasei and Streptococcus oralis Biofilm Interactions through Agent-Based Modeling

mSphere ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Archambault ◽  
Sherli Koshy-Chenthittayil ◽  
Angela Thompson ◽  
Anna Dongari-Bagtzoglou ◽  
Reinhard Laubenbacher ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Biofilm Formation ◽  
Oral Candidiasis ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Cell Models ◽  
Complex Environments ◽  
Inhibitory Effects ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Streptococcus Oralis

We previously discovered a role of the oral commensal Streptococcus oralis as an accessory pathogen. S. oralis increases the virulence of Candida albicans infections in murine oral candidiasis and epithelial cell models through mechanisms which promote the formation of tissue-damaging biofilms. Lactobacillus species have known inhibitory effects on biofilm formation of many microbes, including Streptococcus species. Agent-based modeling has great advantages as a means of exploring multifaceted relationships between organisms in complex environments such as biofilms.

On the contributions and the validation of an agent-based simulation model of innovation diffusion

2016 ◽  
Vol 50 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 647-657 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad G. Nejad
Keyword(s):  
Simulation Modeling ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Test Theory ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Agent Based Simulation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Points Of View ◽  
Complex Phenomena ◽  
Specific Paper

Purpose This paper provides an overview of agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) and evaluates the questions that have been raised regarding the “assumptions and mechanisms used” by a well-cited paper that has used this methodology. Design/methodology/approach This work provides a review of agent-based simulation modeling and its capabilities to advance and test theory. The commentary then evaluates and addresses the raised questions and reservations. Findings Agent-based modeling offers unique capabilities that can be used to explore complex phenomena in business and marketing. Some of the raised reservations may be considered as directions for future research. However, the criticisms are for most part unsupported by existing research and do not undermine the contributions of the paper that is being discussed. Practical implications Given its relative novelty, reservations regarding agent-based simulation modeling are quite natural. Discussions like this one would bring together different points of view and lead to a better understanding of how using ABMS can benefit academia and industry. Originality/value This commentary is part of an intellectual dialogue that seeks to provide different points of view about agent-based simulation modeling using a specific paper as an example.

scholarly journals Improving agent-based models of diffusion

2016 ◽  
Vol 50 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 639-646 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert East ◽  
Mark D. Uncles ◽  
Jenni Romaniuk ◽  
Wendy Lomax
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Diffusion Modeling ◽  
Agent Based Models ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Made In

Purpose This paper aims to review the validation of assumptions made in agent-based modeling of diffusion and the sufficiency (completeness) of the mechanisms assumed to operate. Design/methodology/approach One well-cited paper is examined. Findings Evidence is presented that casts doubt on the assumptions and mechanisms used. A range of mechanisms is suggested that should be evaluated for inclusion in diffusion modeling. Originality/value The need for validation of assumptions has been stressed elsewhere but there has been a lack of examples. This paper provides examples. The stress on the sufficiency of the mechanisms used is new.

New developments in financial economics

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas D. Willett
Keyword(s):  
Behavioral Finance ◽  
Financial Economics ◽  
Recent Literature ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
New Developments ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
New Approaches ◽  
New Methodologies ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This study aims to critically review recent contributions to the methodology of financial economics and discuss how they relate to one another and directions for further research. Design/methodology/approach A critical review of recent literature on new methodologies for financial economics. Findings Recent books have made important contributions to the study of financial economics. They suggest new approaches that include an emphasis on radical uncertainty, adaptive markets, agent-based modeling and narrative economics, as well as extensions of behavioral finance to include concepts such as diagnostic expectations. Many of these contributions can be seen more as complements than substitutes and provide fruitful directions for further research. Efficient markets can be seen as holding under particular circumstances. A major them of most of these contributions is that the study of financial crises and other aspects of financial economics requires the use of multiple theories and approaches. No one approach will be sufficient. Research limitations/implications There are great opportunities for further research in financial economics making use of these new approaches. Practical implications These recent contributions can be quite useful for improved analysis by researchers, private participants in the financial sector and macroeconomic and regulatory officials. Originality/value Provides an introduction to these new approaches and highlights fruitful areas for their extensions and applications.

Hybrid fuzzy Monte Carlo agent-based modeling of workforce motivation and performance in construction

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Raoufi ◽  
Aminah Robinson Fayek
Keyword(s):  
Monte Carlo ◽  
Social Interactions ◽  
Parametric Study ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Practical Application ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Original Contribution ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to cover the development of a methodology for hybrid fuzzy Monte Carlo agent-based simulation (FMCABS) and its implementation on a parametric study of construction crew performance. Design/methodology/approach The developed methodology uses fuzzy logic, Monte Carlo simulation and agent-based modeling to simulate the behavior of construction crews and predict their performance. Both random and subjective uncertainties are considered in model variables. Findings The developed methodology was implemented on a real case involving the parametric study of construction crew performance to assess its applicability and suitability for this context. Research limitations/implications This parametric study demonstrates a practical application for the hybrid FMCABS methodology. Though findings from this study are limited to the context of construction crew motivation and performance, the applicability of the developed methodology extends beyond the construction domain. Practical implications This paper will help construction practitioners to predict and improve crew performance by taking into account both random and subjective uncertainties. Social implications This paper will advance construction modeling by allowing for the assessment of social interactions among crews and their effects on crew performance. Originality/value The developed hybrid FMCABS methodology represents an original contribution, as it allows agent-based models to simultaneously process all types of variables (i.e. deterministic, random and subjective) in the same simulation experiment while accounting for interactions among different agents. In addition, the developed methodology is implemented in a novel and extensive parametric study of construction crew performance.

Agent-based modeling of availability for complex multiple units systems

2017 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 71-81 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ling Wang ◽  
Hong Xu ◽  
Jinjin Wu ◽  
Xiai Chen ◽  
Wenbo Na
Keyword(s):  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Modeling Method ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
Availability Analysis ◽  
Multi Agent ◽  
Modeling Theory ◽  
Maintenance Policies ◽  
Availability Modeling ◽  
Multiple Units

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose an availability modeling method of complex multiple units system (CMUS) based on the multi-agent technique. Design/methodology/approach Based on the multi-agent technique, this paper describes the availability model structure for CMUS and develops agent-based models of components, maintenance policies, maintenance tools, maintenance fields, and maintenance staff, as well as the communication method among the different agents. On the basis of the agent-based availability modeling theory, the availability simulation scheme of CMUS is given using MATLAB. Thus, the availability modeling theory of CMUS and its simulation method are developed. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed availability modeling method, a numerical example is given. Findings The proposed agent-based modeling method is applicable to availability modeling of CMUS, including the modeling of component failure, maintenance tools/fields/staff, maintenance policy, and structural/economic dependence among components. Practical implications As a bottom-top, modular, expandable, and reusable modeling theory, the agent-based modeling method might be useful for availability modeling of different CMUSs in reality. Originality/value The multi-agent technique is introduced into availability modeling of multi-component systems in this paper. Thus, it is possible to model failure of many components, maintenance policies, maintenance tools, maintenance fields, and maintenance staff together for availability analysis of complex systems of equipment.

scholarly journals Understanding the Social Contagion Effect of Safety Violations within a Construction Crew: A Hybrid Approach Using System Dynamics and Agent-Based Modeling

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (12) ◽  
pp. 2696 ◽  
Author(s):  
Huakang Liang ◽  
Ken-Yu Lin ◽  
Shoujian Zhang
Keyword(s):  
System Dynamics ◽  
Critical Role ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Hybrid Approach ◽  
Agent Based Modeling ◽  
Social Contagion ◽  
Contagion Effect ◽  
Prevention Measures ◽  
Agent Based ◽  
The Social

Previous research has recognized the importance of eliminating safety violations in the context of a social group. However, the social contagion effect of safety violations within a construction crew has not been sufficiently understood. To address this deficiency, this research aims to develop a hybrid simulation approach to look into the cognitive, social, and organizational aspects that can determine the social contagion effect of safety violations within a construction crew. The hybrid approach integrates System Dynamics (SD) and Agent-based Modeling (ABM) to better represent the real world. Our findings show that different interventions should be employed for different work environments. Specifically, social interactions play a critical role at the modest hazard levels because workers in this situation may encounter more ambiguity or uncertainty. Interventions related to decreasing the contagion probability and the safety–productivity tradeoff should be given priority. For the low hazard situation, highly intensive management strategies are required before the occurrence of injuries or accidents. In contrast, for the high hazard situation, highly intensive proactive safety strategies should be supplemented by other interventions (e.g., a high safety goal) to further control safety violations. Therefore, this research provides a practical framework to examine how specific accident prevention measures, which interact with workers or environmental characteristics (i.e., the hazard level), can influence the social contagion effect of safety violations.

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