The organisation of sociality: a manifesto for a new science of multi-agent systems

In this paper, we pose and motivate a challenge, namely the need for a new science of multi-agent systems. We propose that this new science should be grounded, theoretically on a richer conception of sociality, and methodologically on the extensive use of computational modelling for real-world applications and social simulations. Here, the steps we set forth towards meeting that challenge are mainly theoretical. In this respect, we provide a new model of multi-agent systems that reflects a fully explicated conception of cognition, both at the individual and the collective level. Finally, the mechanisms and principles underpinning the model will be examined with particular emphasis on the contributions provided by contemporary organisation theory

Making intelligent systems team players: Case studies and design issues. Volume 1: Human-computer interaction design

Initial results are reported from a multi-year, interdisciplinary effort to provide guidance and assistance for designers of intelligent systems and their user interfaces. The objective is to achieve more effective human-computer interaction (HCI) for systems with real time fault management capabilities. Intelligent fault management systems within the NASA were evaluated for insight into the design of systems with complex HCI. Preliminary results include: (1) a description of real time fault management in aerospace domains; (2) recommendations and examples for improving intelligent systems design and user interface design; (3) identification of issues requiring further research; and (4) recommendations for a development methodology integrating HCI design into intelligent system design

FACTORS AFFECTING THE NUMBER AND TYPE OF SMALL-FARM DIRECT MARKETING OUTLETS IN MISSISSIPPI

The objective of this study was to delineate and measure the effects of selected economic demographic characteristics of Mississippi counties on the number and type of direct marketing of fruits and vegetables. A combination of primary data collected through a survey of county agents and secondary data from government sources were assembled to achieve the objective. Regression equations representing pick-your own marketing, farmerÂ’s' markets and farm stands were estimated with the iterative three stage least squares technique. Results indicated that economic factors such as income, employment, acreage, and demographic factors (e.g., total population of county, and the size of cities and towns within county boundaries) have varied impacts on the different types of direct marketing.Agribusiness,

Cancer Surveillance using Data Warehousing, Data Mining, and Decision Support Systems

This article discusses how data warehousing, data mining, and decision support systems can reduce the national cancer burden or the oral complications of cancer therapies, especially as related to oral and pharyngeal cancers. An information system is presented that will deliver the necessary information technology to clinical, administrative, and policy researchers and analysts in an effective and efficient manner. The system will deliver the technology and knowledge that users need to readily: (1) organize relevant claims data, (2) detect cancer patterns in general and special populations, (3) formulate models that explain the patterns, and (4) evaluate the efficacy of specified treatments and interventions with the formulations. Such a system can be developed through a proven adaptive design strategy, and the implemented system can be tested on State of Maryland Medicaid data (which includes women, minorities, and children)

Real-time control for manufacturing space shuttle main engines: Work in progress

During the manufacture of space-based assemblies such as Space Shuttle Main Engines, flexibility is required due to the high-cost and low-volume nature of the end products. Various systems have been developed pursuing the goal of adaptive, flexible manufacturing for several space applications, including an Advanced Robotic Welding System for the manufacture of complex components of the Space Shuttle Main Engines. The Advanced Robotic Welding System (AROWS) is an on-going joint effort, funded by NASA, between NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center, and two divisions of Rockwell International: Rocketdyne and the Science Center. AROWS includes two levels of flexible control of both motion and process parameters: Off-line programming using both geometric and weld-process data bases, and real-time control incorporating multiple sensors during weld execution. Both control systems were implemented using conventional hardware and software architectures. The feasibility of enhancing the real-time control system using the problem-solving architecture of Schemer is investigated and described

Technique of the Joint Use of System Dynamics and Cognitive Analysis for Reengineering of Complex Economic and Social-Political Systems

The technique of the joint use of system dynamics and cognitive analysis for reengineering of complex systems has been proposed. The use of the system dynamics technique at the initial stage of reengineering processes faces the certain difficulties due to the fact of presence of large amount of parameters.It is rather difficult to choose correctly all levels’ and variables’ initial values and change rates. Arbitrary assignment of initial values leads to radical incorrect reengineering procedures. In order to avoid this undesirable result the approach presented in the article assumes the implementation of the cognitive analysis technique at the initial stage. After revelation of fundamental trends of development and screening of insignificant factors system dynamics methodology is proposed to be implementedcognitive analysis, system dynamics, reengineering, impulse oriented weighted graphs, qualitative assessment of processes, emergency management

The Demand for M3 in the Euro Area

No abstract.