Modelling of Multi-Agent Systems: Experiences with Membrane Computing and Future Challenges

Formal modelling of Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) is a challenging task due to high complexity, interaction, parallelism and continuous change of roles and organisation between agents. In this paper we record our research experience on formal modelling of MAS. We review our research throughout the last decade, by describing the problems we have encountered and the decisions we have made towards resolving them and providing solutions. Much of this work involved membrane computing and classes of P Systems, such as Tissue and Population P Systems, targeted to the modelling of MAS whose dynamic structure is a prominent characteristic. More particularly, social insects (such as colonies of ants, bees, etc.), biology inspired swarms and systems with emergent behaviour are indicative examples for which we developed formal MAS models. Here, we aim to review our work and disseminate our findings to fellow researchers who might face similar challenges and, furthermore, to discuss important issues for advancing research on the application of membrane computing in MAS modelling.Comment: In Proceedings AMCA-POP 2010, arXiv:1008.314

Smoking behavior among nurses in rural greece

Evidence suggests that rural health care providers may be at increased risk for tobacco addiction. Few researchers have studied the habitual use of tobacco in rural Greece and no published studies have examined sustained tobacco use by nurses working in these areas or their knowledge and attitudes toward smoking cessation. To explore the above, the authors conducted a questionnaire-based study in 40 health centers in rural mainland and island Greece. Two hundred twenty nurses were surveyed (65% response rate). Thirty-two percent of the nurse respondents were smokers, 54% were non-smokers, and 14% were former smokers. Only 8% of respondents had been trained to assist clients with smoking cessation. © American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Inc

Experimental investigation of fluid flow in horizontal pipes system of various cross-section geometries

The current research work presents experiments of an essentially incompressible fluid flow in pipes. The experimental equipment consists of a horizontal pipe including a gate valve, a Venturi meter, a wide angle diffuser, an orifice plate, a 90-degree elbow and pressure tappings. An elbow connects the pipe to arotameter with further pressure tappings. All pressure tappings connected to manometers held on a vertical panel behind the pipe work and show pressure at various points. The effect of the pipe geometry in the flow pattern is presented. Furthermore head losses are estimated, at specific stream-wise cross-sections, for mass flow rate numbered from 0.056 to 0.411 l/s. The manometers measure and clearly show pressure distribution against a calibrated scale. The diagrams of mass flow rate and head losses are presented in specific crosssections, where geometry changes. All measurements were calibrated and validated in a maximum standard deviation difference of 5%. The head losses decrease as the mass flow rate decreases, for all pipe geometries. In the future the experimental results can be used to verify numerical simulation results

Greek BLS Certified Providers’ CPRWillingness and Skill Retention During the Pre-Vaccine Covid-19 Pandemic Period. A Survey of the Hellenic Society of Cardiology

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of established knowledge regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during the pre-vaccine Covid-19 pandemic era of certified Basic Life Support (BLS) providers, as well as their attitude towards CPR and their willingness to provide CPR. Methods: Certified BLS providers from courses held in Athens, Greece, were asked to complete an electronic survey regarding their knowledge of and stance towards performing CPR on victims with confirmed or suspected Covid-19 infection. Their insight on BLS courses was also assessed. Answers were collected during June 2020. Results: Out of 5513 certified providers, 25.53% completed the survey. The majority (83.36%) would provide CPR to a cardiac arrest victim with possible or confirmed Covid-19 infection. Regarding the use of an automated external defibrillator, most respondents anticipated that it is equally safe as in the pre-Covid-19 period (58.24%). A more elementary level of education (p = 0.04) made rescuers more willing to provide CPR. Access to the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) or to the Greek National Public Health Organization (NPHO) guidelines was not correlated to the attitude towards resuscitation. Time since the last BLS seminar had no impact on the rescuers’ attitude (p = 0.72). All responders agreed that training in CPR during Covid-19 remains necessary. Conclusion: Certified BLS providers maintained their willingness to perform CPR in cardiac arrest victims even during the pre-vaccine, dangerous Covid-19 pandemic period. Knowledge regarding Covid-19 CPR was satisfactory; however, continuous training, focused on the revised algorithms, was considered essential. © 2022 Latsios et al