Spreading control in two-layer multiplex networks

Abstract

The problem of controlling a spreading process in a two-layer multiplex networks in such a way that the extinction state becomes a global attractor is addressed. The problem is formulated in terms of a Markov-chain based susceptible-infected-susceptible (SIS) dynamics in a complex multilayer network. The stabilization of the extinction state for the nonlinear discrete-time model by means of appropriate adaptation of system parameters like transition rates within layers and between layers is analyzed using a dominant linear dynamics yielding global stability results. An answer is provided for the central question about the essential changes in the step from a single to a multilayer network with respect to stability criteria and the number of nodes that need to be controlled. The results derived rigorously using mathematical analysis are verified using statical evaluations about the number of nodes to be controlled and by simulation studies that illustrate the stability property of the multilayer network induced by appropriate control action.