\(f\)-vectors of simplicial posets that are balls (Q644705)

Motivated by results of \textit{R. P. Stanley} [J.\ Pure Appl.\ Algebra 71, No. 2-3, 319--331 (1991; Zbl 0727.06009); Eur.\ J.\ Comb.\ 14, No. 3, 251--258 (1993; Zbl 0799.52008)] and \textit{M. Masuda} [Adv.\ Math.\ 194, No. 2, 332--344 (2005; Zbl 1063.05010)] which completely describe the \(h\)-vectors of simplicial posets whose order complexes are spheres, the present paper provides some necessary an some sufficient conditions on the \(h\)-vectors of simplicial posets whose order complexes are balls. The necessary conditions, stated as inequalities and parity conditions, are obtained by studying the face ring of the simplicial posets, the examples yielding sufficient conditions are constructed using shelling. Combining this work with a new result of S.\ Murai, a complete characterization of the \(h\)-vectors is given for simplicial poset balls in even dimensions and in odd dimensions less than or equal to five.