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Accompanied by the concept of supply-side structural reform and conversion of new and old driving energy to create a new round of economic development in China, cement supplier evaluation and selection are increasingly crucial for concrete production plants, ensuring not only raw material supply with high quality and at a reasonable price but also sustainable and long-term cooperation with suppliers. Given the limitations of the existing approaches, this study proposes a cement supplier evaluation and selection framework based on the combination of the improved FAHP-CRITIC method and VIKOR method. We first develop a cement supplier evaluation and selection index system under the background of new and old driving energy conversion, including eight first-level indicators and twenty-one second-level indicators. The proposed model then uses triangular fuzzy numbers AHP (TFN-AHP) and the improved CRITIC method to calculate subjective and objective weights by replacing the coefficient of variation with standard deviation, uses the ideal solution-based method to determine their combination weights, and combines the VIKOR method to calculate the comprehensive evaluation values of candidate cement suppliers. After that, the proposed approach is applied to evaluate and select ten cement suppliers for concrete production plants, and the results are compared and analyzed with those using the traditional method. The results of the comparison show that the proposed strategy can be scientific and reliable, helping managers to make the right decision under the background of new and old driving energy conversion in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a production-distribution network system for a company, which is active in producing bottled natural spring water, was established. For this, one of the seven provinces in the Aegean Region was selected as a pilot region. According to the new supply chain network to be established in the region facility location selection model (FLS) decisions were optimized. The production of 0,5 lt bottled water is considered because it is the primary market target of the company. In order to meet the customer demand with a minimum production and distribution cost a network was established with optimum factory capacities and warehouse locations. Accordingly, this study consists of two stages; in the first stage a Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method was used to choose the most appropriate province. In the second stage the network was established and optimized under stochastic parameters by developing optimization models. The first method, FAHP, is fuzzy, and the second method, stochastic mixed-integer programming (MIP), is also modeled under uncertainty. Thus, the results are realistic and in a range that the company also accepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of new technologies, such as automation, big data, and artificial intelligence, a port that utilizes these technologies can significantly improve its operational efficiency and make it economically more competitive. Despite its increasing importance, there is no standard definition of a smart port, resulting in each country having its own smart port development strategy. In this study, we explore how varied port governance of port authorities may impact the smart port development strategy. First, we established a set of evaluation criteria, using the Borda count and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, to obtain the key indicators for the development of smart ports in Taiwan. Then, we compared the preferred indicators of Taiwan's smart port development strategy with those of Spanish ports. An obvious difference in this ranking comparison is found. This indicates that Taiwan's strategy focuses on optimizing maritime safety, while Spain's strategy focuses on improving operational economics. Finally, we analyzed the differences between the smart port development strategies of these two countries using the latest port governance classification table. The results of the above analysis are also verified by comparing the differences in port legislation between them. It turns out that the private sector is deeply involved in the operation of ports in Taiwan compared with Spain. Our main contribution lies in providing a clear pathway for developing a smart port in Taiwan in the future and investigating the reasons for different smart port development strategies in different countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current scenario, climatic adversities and a growing population are adding woes to the concerns of food safety and security. Furthermore, with the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 by the United Nations (UN), focusing on sustainable production–consumption, climatic vulnerabilities need to be addressed. Hence, in order to map the sustainable production–consumption avenues, agricultural practices need to be investigated for practices like Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). A need has arisen to align the existing agricultural practices in the developing nation towards the avenues of CSA, in order to counter the abrupt climatic changes. Addressing the same, a relation hierarchical model is developed which clusters the various governing criteria and their allied attributes dedicated towards the adoption of CSA practices. Furthermore, the developed model is contemplated for securing the primacies of promising practices for the enactment of CSA using the duo of the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) and Fuzzy AHP (FAHP). The outcomes result in the substantial sequencing of the key attributes acting as a roadmap toward the CSA. This emphasizes the adoption of knowledge-based smart practices, which leaps from the current agricultural practices toward the CSA. Furthermore, by intensifying the utilization of the improved and resilient seed varieties and implying the fundamentals of agroforestry, we secure primacy to counter the adversities of the climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robots with vastly different capabilities and specifications are available for a wide range of applications. Selection of a robot for a specific application has become more complicated due to increase in the complexity, advanced features and facilities that are continuously being incorporated into the robots by different manufacturers. The aim of this paper is to present an integrated approach for the optimal selection of robots by considering both objective and subjective criteria. The approach utilizes Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM), Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchical Process (FAHP), Fuzzy modified TOPSIS or Fuzzy VIKOR and Brown–Gibson model for robot selection. FDM is used to select the list of important objective and subjective criteria based on the decision makers’ opinion. Fuzzy AHP method is then used to find out the weight of each criterion (both objective and subjective). Fuzzy modified TOPSIS or Fuzzy VIKOR method is then used to rank the alternatives based on objective and subjective factors. The rankings obtained are used to calculate the robot selection index based on Brown–Gibson model. The proposed methodology is illustrated with a case study related to selection of robot for teaching purpose. It is found that the highest ranked alternative based on Fuzzy VIKOR is closest to the ideal solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates a greenhouse microclimatic environment controlled by a mobile measuring station with the aim of improving performance by using wireless sensor networks (WSN) technology. The algorithms for the mobile measuring station that perform navigation tasks are called Bug algorithms. The existing potential field method based algorithms are improved with an RSSI signal propagation model and implemented on a two-wheel driven robot developing system and their performances are measured and analyzed. The implementation part is done on Boe-Bot equipped with SunSPOT enabling the wireless control ability. The control surface is generally made with LabVIEW and a relational database. Control strategy selection system is supported by Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). Navigation of the mobile measuring robot can be done manually, relying on the visual data from the robot's camera, or it can be switched to automatic mode where the developed algorithm does the navigation job. Mobile robot navigation is based on the potential field method considering a wide range of energy-aware parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of electrification programs in non-interconnected rural areas in Colombia is a challenge for the country in order to reduce the social gap in these regions. This task is responsibility of the Mining and Energy Planning Unit (UPME), which has as challenges the implementation of renewable energy projects that allow diversifying the national energy matrix. For this reason, this paper proposes a support framework for multicriteria decision-making in the electricity supply of non-interconnected rural areas for the Colombian Caribbean Region. The multicriteria method of the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchical Process (FAHP) was used, which allows the incorporation of a fuzzy triangular scale to improve the imprecision in the judgments made by experts. A hierarchical structure with 6 renewable energy alternatives, 4 criteria and 16 sub-criteria was designed, which allowed the implementation of a paired comparison survey that was answered by 10 experts from the region. The results obtained show the relevance of all alternatives, which is evidenced by a percentage difference of less than 5% between all the options. The best alternative was solar PV (20,27%). Regarding the criteria, the most relevant were economic (39,6%) and environmental (30,8%). The most relevant sub-criterion was the renewable fraction, related to the possible reuse of equipment (20,2%).

The study presented herein proposes a multi-criteria decision-making tool to identify flood susceptibility areas on a regional scale. The adopted approach is based on the integration of multi-criteria analysis, geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) techniques. Accordingly, flood susceptibility maps were prepared depending on information from six flood-conditioning factors namely Rainfall, Elevation, Slope, Land use/cover, Soil type, and Distance from the river. The relative importance of each factor on the flood susceptibility was assigned based on experts' judgements and then connected to weight values. Two techniques were employed for weight calculation; the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and the Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). The presented approach was applied to the Biskra basin, located north-eastern Algeria at the Sahara limits. The obtained maps indicate flood susceptibility areas, with high and very high flood susceptibility, mainly occurring at the northern areas of the basin which receive more rainfall, and also in urban areas all over the basin close to drainage networks. The performances of the two models were evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) by comparing the obtained maps to an inventory map of past flood events. The evaluation results indicated that both the AHP and the FAHP models were found to be suited in predicting flood prone areas in the Biskra basin with AUC values of 93,61% and 96,61% respectively. Nevertheless, the FAHP model is preferred due to its ability to minimize vagueness and uncertainty associated with human judgements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempts to present a contribution of Blockchain Technology (BC-T) in managing disruptions, and risk caused by the COVID-19 outbreaks and extending profound support in developing resilient Food Supply Chains (FSCs). The effects of the pandemic can be witnessed on global supply chains in their demand & supply side disruptions and in the changing patterns of consumer buying in the food industry. The assessment of the disruptive factors is required to explore the present issues and promising resilient strategies to impart robustness to the FSCs for mitigating disruptions in the future. An integrated approach of Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Weighted Assessment Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) is employed to assess the factors related to sourcing, lean, workforce, and flexibility, as well as evaluation of the BC-T enabled FSCs resilient strategies that mitigate the effect of disruption during the pandemic. The findings exhibit that 'Sourcing related' is the most affecting disruptive factor causing distress in the FSCs and 'flexibility resilient strategy' is the most relevant resilient strategy for BC-T enabled FSCs. The BC-T acts as a catalyst in enhancing the flexibility, traceability, and shorter supply chain network structure that may help the FSCs to mitigate risk and disruption in the pandemic situation. The BC-T helps the FSCs to control the demand and supply shocks, and supports the organization with real-time monitoring and sharing information. This study provides insights to the decision-makers, managers, and other stakeholders to take significant decisions during an emergency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most previous research studies on the general factors related to the adoption of mobile services have used multiple regression methods (the technology acceptance mode or structural equation modeling) and some have used MCDM tools. However, these studies still have some shortcomings, so they cannot provide the enough precise information about these factors and their weightings. This information is needed by firms so that they can allocate their limited resources to the most important factors and draw appropriate strategies to improve the content and quality of their mobile services. This study reviewed the literature and constructed a three-layer hierarchical table of the factors that affect consumers' adoption of mobile services. A pair-wise questionnaire was then designed and distributed to managers who are familiar with the mobile services of Chunghwa Telecom, a leading telecommunication company. From the data collected, the weight of each factor was directly calculated, using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). The paper analyzes the importance of factors and three implications are also discussed. Hopefully, this knowledge will enable firms to better utilize their limited resources, by devising management strategies based on the weights of these factors, and therefore, to meet consumer demand at lower cost and with greater efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The material plays an important role in an engineering design process. The suitable material selection for a particular product is one of the vital tasks for the designers. In order to fulfil the product’s end requirements, designers need to analyze the performance of various materials and spot suitable materials with precise functionalities. Due to the presence of large number of materials with diverse properties, the material selection process is complicated and time consuming task. There is a necessity of systematic and efficient approach towards material selection to choose best alternative material for a product. The aim of this paper is to describe the application of four Multi Criteria Decision Making methods for solving pipes material selection problem in sugar industry. FAHP-TOPSIS, FAHP-VIKOR, FAHP-ELECTRE, FAHP-PROMTHEE are the four methods used to choose the best alternative among the various materials. The ranking performance of various MCDM methods is also compared with each other and exploring the effectiveness and flexibility of VIKOR method. Five stainless steel grades such as J4, JSLAUS, J204Cu, 409M, 304 and seven evaluation criteria such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, percentage of elongation, hardness, cost, corrosion rate and wear rate are focussed in this study to choose the suitable material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The supplier selection is critical towards the success of a company. This paper compares four different methods to support decision makers in selecting the most appropriate supplier. When using Fuzzy logic, the importance of each criterion gets influenced by the level of decomposition in the hierarchical model. Fuzzy logic does not have the capability to measure the level of consistency in the judgments provided by a decision maker. On the other hand, analytic hierarchy process (AHP) cannot capture subjectivity (or fuzziness) of human judgements as the verbal assessments are converted into crisp values. Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is a merger of the two methods, Fuzzy logic and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), which inherits the advantages of both and, therefore, addresses the above mentioned problems. The FAHP method is useful in identifying a suitable supplier and to evaluate its performance as demonstrated in the described case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scarcity of water resources, economic development, and environmental protection are the most important challenges facing governments in dry areas. Proper and legalized new city afforestation projects can achieve maximum economic, environmental, and societal benefit. Therefore, afforestation projects are one of the most important elements of land uses in new cities for their effective role in addressing and reducing the number of negatives associated with urban growth. The problem of water shortage in the process of afforestation of new cities can be faced with several solutions, the most important of which is relying on planting drought-tolerant trees and plants. However, how to plan and select trees and plants to achieve desired goals is an important policy-making problem. This study evaluates four categories, and each category consists of a group of trees and plants that can be planted through a case study in the New Administrative Capital, Egypt. A hybrid fuzzy approach was introduced in which participants could use verbal expressions to express their opinions in decision-making to determine criteria that influence the selection of plants and trees. Many criteria must be taken into consideration in the evaluation process, including economic importance, societal importance, environmental importance, soil strategies, disease and pest resistance, and water-saving. Hence, this study uses a fuzzy hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach that considers many incompatible criteria. At first, the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method was applied to estimate the relative importance of the six selected criteria. Then, the Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS) method was applied to arrange the trees and plants of the four selected categories. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to validate the validity and stability of the hybrid fuzzy approach through the change in the weights of the criteria. The results of this paper provide a practical reference for optimizing afforestation and selecting suitable trees and plants to achieve a profitable pattern through economic, societal, and environmental aspects in new cities and dry areas.

The objective of the present paper is to develop a systematic and sustainability-focused evaluation framework to determine the best locations for wind plants in Vietnam. For the decision-making that influences wind plant site selection, while some criteria can be evaluated based on a numerical database, numerous qualitative criteria must be under experts’ judgments in the form of linguistic terms and can be represented through fuzzy numbers. In this direction, a two-phase framework of multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methodologies using the merits of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP), and Fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum-Product Assessment (FWASPAS) is proposed for the first time. In the first phase using DEA, the most potential locations regarding their efficiency on various quantitative criteria are selected. These locations are further assessed in the second phase in terms of qualitative criteria viz. technical, economic, environmental, and socio-political factors. For this evaluation, FAHP was used for criteria weighting, and FWASPAS ranks the provinces. A comparison with the existing locations, sensitivity analysis of criteria, and comparative analysis of methods are performed to support the outcomes of the proposed work. The results illustrate that all methods reach common rankings, in which Binh Thuan province got the highest rank. This shows that the applied models are robust in nature. Implementation of the proposed approach can enable governments and stakeholders to save costs and make the most out of resources in the planning phase of wind power plants or any other renewable energy projects.

The period of industrialization and modernization has increased energy demands around the world. As with other countries, the Taiwanese government is trying to increase the proportion of renewable energy, especially solar energy resources. Thus, there are many solar power plants built in Taiwan. One of the most important components of a solar power plant is the solar panel. The solar panel supplier selection process is a complex and multi-faceted decision that can reduce the cost of purchasing equipment and supply this equipment on time. In this research, we propose fuzzy MCDM approach that includes fuzzy analytical hierarchy process model (FAHP) and data envelopment analysis (DEA) for evaluation and selection of solar panel supplier for a photovoltaic system design in Taiwan. The main objective of this work is to design a fuzzy MCDM approach for solar panel supplier selection based on qualitative and quantitative factors. In the first step of this research, FAHP is applied to define the priority of suppliers. The AHP combined with fuzzy logic (FAHP) can be used to rank suppliers; however, the disadvantages of the FAHP model is that input data, expressed in linguistic terms, depends on experience of experts and the number of suppliers is practically limited, because of the number of pairwise comparison matrices. Thus, we applied several DEA models for ranking potential suppliers in the final stages. As the result, decision making unit 1 (DMU 1) is the optimal solar panel supplier for photovoltaic system design in Taiwan. The contribution of this research is a new fuzzy MCDM for supplier selection under fuzzy environment conditions. This paper also lies in the evolution of a new approach that is flexible and practical to the decision maker. It provides a useful guideline for solar panel supplier selection in many countries as well as a guideline for supplier selection in other industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of multiple criteria decision-making methods (MCDM) is aimed at choosing the best alternative out of the number of available versions in the absence of the apparently dominant alternative. One of the two major components of multiple criteria decision-making methods is represented by the weights of the criteria describing the considered process. The weights of the criteria quantitatively express their significance and influence on the evaluation result. The criterion weights can be subjective, i.e., based on the estimates assigned by the experts, and the so-called objective, i.e., those which assess the structure of the data array at the time of evaluation. Several groups of experts, representing the opinions of various interested parties may take part in the evaluation of criteria. The evaluation data on the criterion weights also depend on the mathematical methods used for calculations and the estimation scales. In determining the objective weights, several methods, assessing various properties or characteristics of the data array’s structure, are usually employed. Therefore, the use of the procedures, improving the accuracy of the evaluation of the weights’ values and the integration of the obtained data into a single value, is often required. The present paper offers a new approach to more accurate evaluation of the criteria weights obtained by using various methods based on the idea of the Bayes hypothesis. The performed investigation shows that the suggested method is symmetrical and does not depend on the fact whether a priori or posterior values of the weights are recalculated. This result is the theoretical basis for practical use of the method of combining the weights obtained by various approaches as the geometric mean of various estimates. The ideas suggested by the authors have been repeatedly used in the investigation for combining the objective weights, for recalculating the criteria weights after obtaining the estimates of other groups of experts and for combining the subjective and the objective weights. The recalculated values of the weights of the criteria are used in the work for evaluating the quality of the distant courses taught to the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most countries depend on coal-fired thermal power plants (CTPPs) to meet energy demands. However, the adverse environmental impacts of CTPPs also remain a major concern. As the energy generations from renewable energy resources are still in the developing stage, reliance on CTPPs is inevitable. Hence, the efficiency of CTPPs has to be improved, while decreasing carbon emissions. This study aims to identify and evaluate the key factors that need to be addressed in improving the performance and minimizing the carbon emission of CTPPs. With the literature review and industrial interaction, twenty-four key factors are identified. Next, an integrated approach of the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and fuzzy decision-making and trial laboratory (FDEMATEL) is used to evaluate the key factors. FAHP prioritizes the key factors and FDEMATEL reveals the relationship among the key factors. Results indicate air preheater leakage, plugging by ash, high levels of air ingress, air preheater secondary fire, and high levels of corrosion as the top five key factors affecting CTPP performance. Based on the outcome, the study offers some implications that may assist the industrial management in taking timely actions in improving the performance of CTPPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explosion is the most dangerous accident during direct combustion of low‐concentration gas. Few investigations have focused on explosion risk assessment of low‐concentration gas safe combustion system. This study aims to analyze explosion risk of above system. Due to insufficient accident data for calculating the failure probability of explosion, expert evaluation method and fuzzy algorithm were adopted to obtain the failure probability of basic events (BEs) and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy (FAHP) Process method used to improve the calculation of expert weights. Then qualitative and quantitative analysis was carried out using fault tree analysis. Results show that the failure probability of system explosion is 0.085%. Events with high‐risk probability are mainly on equipment management and personnel behavior norms. Safe combustion system has excellent performance on tempering prevention, explosion resistance and explosion relief. The outcomes of this study are expected to help the safety professionals while formulating safety management measures for low‐concentration gas safety combustion system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over recent years, there was a substantial rise globally in the importance of the environmental agenda for SMEs. The customer becomes now conscious of their consumer choices' environmental consequences. This research has also identified obstacles to introducing green business activities in small- and medium-sized enterprises and increase sustainable development. The green innovation barriers refer to green products, processes, and management; therefore, it is important to minimize restrictions on clean technology implementation in small- and medium-sized enterprises. This study uses an integrated decision process to define primary barriers, sub-obstacles, and approaches to addressing those obstacles to Saudi Arabia's green innovation practices. Through extensive literature review and twelve experts' opinions, six key barriers, twenty-five sub-barriers, and plans to reduce obstacles were identified. Using the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), key barriers and sub-barriers are assessed. The methodology used to rank strategies is the Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS). Five Saudi Arabia SMEs are involved in the study of the proposed integrated decision model. The FAHP reports that the key obstacles to introducing green practices in SMEs are "political obstacles" The FTOPSIS, therefore suggesting that "developing research methods to deliver green innovation in small- and medium-sized enterprises" is the best approach to addressing barriers in green innovation adoption in SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterprise quality management robustness describes the effectiveness of quality management error-proofing system. In accordance with fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and Dempster-Shafer theory (DST), this research constructs the evaluation model of the quality management robustness of coal mine establishes the evaluation index system from seven aspects and three levels, and puts forward the evaluation method. At last, the effectiveness of the error-proofing system of coal mining enterprise is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tunneling project is one of the most significant infrastructure projects. Its implementation requires access to adequate data and use of unique proceedings; hence it has a special position among civil engineering projects. Unexpected and uncertain conditions in tunneling projects lead to an increase of potential risks during project implementation. Identifying and evaluating risks in tunneling projects are considered one of the significant challenges among civil engineers, which can cause proper risk management during tunnel construction. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate and rank the risks of the second part of the Emamzadeh Hashem tunnel in the north of Iran which was considered as a case study. For this purpose, twelve potential risks were identified by using geological studies and experts. Then, they were evaluated and ranked using effective fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (FMCDM) techniques, namely fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (FAHP). The three decision variables were considered, including repeat chance, occurrence possibility, and efficacy. The results obtained indicated that the occurrence possibility was the most effective among the decision variables in this case study. In addition, Instability of the wall and lack of contractor's experiences had the highest and lowest ranks with 0.103 and 0.052, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consciousness of safety risk factors and the emergence of WHO guidelines for the preparedness of health care workers have pushed the health care systems to take proactive decisions to maintain a safe and productive working environment during the COVID-19 outbreak. In order to provide this working environment, detailed identification, and analysis of safety risk factors are required. In this context, we proposed a hybrid fuzzy-based decision-making framework to rank the Indian hospitals based on the prevalence of safety risk factors among the health care workers. First, fifteen relevant safety risk factors are identified with the help of the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). Second, the weights of categories and their respective factors are computed and are ranked based on their criticality by the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). Finally, Indian Hospitals are ranked based on these factors using the Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The low carbon economy (LCE) is considered as a kind of development mode (low carbon development, LCD) in this paper. So several problems appear, e.g., what kind of development is LCD? And, how to evaluate the level of LCD? The aim of this study is just to answer these questions. Firstly, the indicators’ system of the LCD level was constructed, which contains five main indicators and 10 sub-indicators. Then, 47 representative countries (areas) worldwide were taken as the numerical case. In the empirical research process, a two step methodology of combining the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) with the Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution method (TOPSIS) is proposed. FAHP was used to determinate the main and sub-indicators’ weights of the 47 countries’ (areas’) LCD level, then the TOPSIS method used these weights as its own input weights to complete the whole calculation process. The results indicate that the method proposed can be successfully used in the study and the concept of the LCD level be considered as a very useful tool because the conclusions related to it have some certain directive significances when we have to take decisions on some items. In the end, some reasonable policy suggestions are proposed and some directions for future studies are put forward. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Enterprise’ immune system can help enterprise prevent and eliminate enterprises’ viruses so that enterprises continuously adapt to the environment. This paper uses immunology theory and artificial immune engineering theory, on the basis of previous research, to discuss enterprise immunity, and build evaluation index system of enterprise immunity. Then, we bring out an Evaluation Model of enterprise immunity based on D-S Evidence Theory. FAHP is used to structure and rate the criteria. The information from multiple data sources is combined using Dempstere-Shafer evidence theory. We illustrate our approach by application on the evaluation of Enterprise Immunity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new classification system is presented to evaluate and ranking the sawability of carbonate rock. The sawability of carbonate rock is classified into five categories: excellent, good, fair, poor and very poor. The sawability is assumed to depend on the uniaxial compressive strength, Young’s modulus, Mohs hardness, and a new abrasivity index. The FAHP approach is used to determine the weights of the above-mentioned parameters by decision makers. Moreover, in this paper, a new classification system was developed to modify Schimazek’s F-abrasiveness factor. In this new abrasivity classification, each parameter has a different importance coefficient. The new abrasivity index of carbonate rocks can be obtained from this new abrasivity classification system. The calculated sawability index of developed classification is applied for Iranian carbonate rocks to evaluation the energy consumption in rock sawing process. A variety of two groups of carbonate rocks (seven types) were saw using a fully instrumented laboratory sawing rig at different feed rates, peripheral speeds, and depth of cut. Then, a new statistical model was obtained using multiple regression method based on operating parameters and rock sawability index. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: For manufacturing industries, financial performance evaluation is very important in a highly competitive environment. Therefore, an accurate and appropriate performance evaluation is critical. As financial performance indicators reflect the competitiveness of a company, they must be carefully identified in the evaluation process. Generally, traditional accounting-based financial performance (AFP) measures are used for performance evaluation. However, these measures are not sufficient for performance evaluation solely in the modern industry time. So, value-based financial performance (VFP) measures have recently been introduced to express the company value. In this paper, we propose a new financial performance evaluation approach to rank the companies of each sector in the Turkish manufacturing industry. For this purpose, a hierarchical financial performance evaluation model is structured based on the AFP and VFP main-criteria and their sub-criteria. We use fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to determine the weights of the criteria. The companies are ranked according to their own manufacturing sector by using TOPSIS and VIKOR comparatively. The results show that the obtained ranks of the companies by these methods are almost same with respect to their own sectors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this paper is developing a new hierarchical model to evaluate and rank the sawability (power consumption) of carbonate rock with the use of effective and major criteria, and simultaneously taking subjective judgments of decision makers into consideration. The proposed approach is based on the combination of Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method with TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) methods. FAHP is used for determining the weights of the criteria by decision makers, and then rankings of carbonate rocks are determined by TOPSIS. The proposed method is applied for Iranian ornamental stone to evaluate the power consumption in rock sawing process. A variety of two groups of carbonate rocks (7 types) were sawn, using a fully-instrumented laboratory cutting rig at different feed rate (200, 300, 400cmmin−1) at constant peripheral speed (1770rpm) and depth of cut (35mm). During the sawing trials, the ampere and power consumption were monitored and calculated as performance characteristics of the saws. The results of the sawing trials (power consumption) were used to verify the result of the applied approach for ranking the carbonate rock sawability. It was concluded that the sawability of carbonate rocks can reliably be ranked, using the developed approach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study utilizes fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to analyze decision-making patterns with regard to third-generation wireless communications (3GWC) service adoption, and to provide customized strategic recommendations to suppliers of 3GWC services regarding marketing and resource allocation in the context of the Chinese 3GWC market. First of all, a three-layer hierarchy of 3GWC adoption factors is developed by referring to the relevant literature and industry reports. A questionnaire of pairwise comparisons in the fuzzy AHP format is then designed and distributed to experts familiar with the handset market in Shanghai, China. These surveys are then analyzed using fuzzy AHP to establish an understanding of the weights and impacts of the various factors. The results show that the four most important factors for the adoption of 3GWC systems are: (i) handset price and voice and data-transmission fees; (ii) handset aesthetics; (iii) personalization; and (iv) network coverage. These findings suggest that providers of such services should customize and diversify the content/applications they offer and ensure the speed and reliability of network access. In addition, handset designs should be in accordance with consumer demands. If these steps can be achieved, then consumers will adopt 3GWC services more rapidly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper is aimed to present a fuzzy decision-making approach for prioritizing effective 7Ms to improve production systems performance. In this research systematic approach has been used for organization and production system inputs which named as 7Ms (Management, Manpower, Marketing, Method, Machine, Material, and Money). Linguistic values are used to assess the ratings and weights for 7Ms. These linguistic ratings can be expressed in trapezoidal or triangular fuzzy numbers. Then, a hierarchy multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) model based on fuzzy-sets theory including FAHP and FTOPSIS are applied. The results obtained from AHP, FAHP; FTOPSIS were compared with each other. This research has been conducted on a manufacturing plant however the results can also be used for other types of organizations that are located in a competitive environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common problem for many students is the selection of college to be enrolled in for graduate studies for their prospective career. A student is uncertain about making this decision. As many factors are involved in choosing an appropriate college for graduation, college selection falls into the category of Multi-criteria Analysis (MA) problem. To solve such problems, the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) (Saaty, 1980) is employed. Moreover, if an individual is supposed to take any decision, he specifies his preferences using linguistic variables instead of assigning any crisp score to the preference. These linguistic terms are nothing but imprecise and dubious values. To deal with such fuzziness, Buckley (1999), and Laarhoven and Pedrycz (1983) extended Saaty's AHP by incorporating fuzzy characteristics into it and developed a new process known as Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchical Process (FAHP). FAHP thus helps the decision makers to deal with imprecision and subjectiveness in pair-wise comparison process. By using FAHP, this paper will aid the school students in selecting the best college for pursuing B. Tech in the Delhi region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Monitoring the market has crucial roles for executing the shipping investment decisions in maritime transportation industry. The high level of managerial effort requires bringing market tendencies with the up-to-date data over dynamic parameters. This paper extends the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) principles towards shipping investment process via the originally proposed Ship of Quality (SoQ) framework. Furthermore, the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Fuzzy Axiomatic Design (FAD) algorithms are integrated into the SoQ frame in order to involve quantitative outcomes into the shipping investment decisions. The SoQ is performed over a set of periodical data and recent trends of the principal crude oil tanker markets such as Very Large Crude Oil Carriers (VLCCs), Suezmaxes, and Aframaxes in order to ensure the illustrative results. As an effective investment tool, the proposed SoQ model is expected to provide invaluable decision aid for the relevant shipping executives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Rural revitalization is an attempt by China's rural reform plan. Among them, the pastoral complex emphasizes the integration of agriculture and tourism, extends the agricultural chain, and integrates health care, technology, tourism, creativity, and leisure. However, the pastoral complex is faced with solving rural-urban integration in the context of the current rural revitalization strategy, involving complex factors such as land, ecological, cultural, and social issues. Therefore, this study analyzes the complex factors affecting the pastoral complex. Fuzzy calculation theory is introduced in the pastoral complex to discuss the pastoral complex system's operational characteristics and further explore how to build an adaptive system evaluation system at different system levels. Considering that the process needs to consider several Conflicting factors from qualitative to quantitative, to deal with the uncertainty of human judgment in the evaluation process, the process uses fuzzy analytical hierarchy process to obtain the weight of each factor and understand the degree of influence of each factor. The research results show that various factors have different degrees of influence on the pastoral complex. Therefore, in the complex pastoral process, more attention should be paid to the operation mechanism factors to make the complex pastoral system more scientific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our paper determines the best competitive strategy that can be implemented by existing and potential air cargo carriers in the Turkish Air Cargo Industry with the operationalization of Istanbul Airport (IGA) and reveals the competitiveness level of the industry for four bases. We look at the competitiveness levels by analyzing the competitive environment of the industry nationally and internationally both before and post IGA (estimated). We use fuzzy TOPSIS (FTOPSIS) based on the Fuzzy AHP (FAHP) to handle vagueness, which is inherent in the nature of new competition conditions integrating the framework of Porter's five forces analysis. In our study, we use the five forces as our main criteria (with a total of 19 sub-criteria) and the competitive strategies as our alternatives. Our results reveal that the cost-focused strategy is the best competitive strategy that can be implemented by existing and potential carriers in the industry. Another significant result underscores the fact that IGA increases the competitiveness level of the Turkish Air Cargo Industry both nationally and internationally to a fairly high level. Also, the threat of potential competitors is first among the five forces in the industry's new conditions. Our study fills the gap in the literature on the effects of major structural changes in an air cargo industry on the competition among carriers. • The study determines the best competition strategy that can be implemented by carriers. • The study reveals the competitiveness level of Turkish air cargo industry before and post IGA. • The study uses FTOPSIS based on FAHP (FAHP) integrating the framework of Porter's five forces. • The results reveal that the cost-focused strategy is the best competitive strategy. • IGA increases the competitiveness level of the industry to fairly high level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the growth of the online food delivery (OFD) market in every corner of the world. In Vietnam, the food delivery service is rising rapidly and opening a large gateway of opportunities for numerous OFD platforms, also making it a competing business market in this country. Thus, to keep up with the ever-changing market dynamics, there are numerous measures and dimensions for the OFD entrepreneurs to take into consideration towards sustainable development. This paper's objective is to evaluate major OFD companies in Vietnam based on a comprehensive set of criteria, which are social and environmental criteria (healthy and safety, information security, and environmental impact), economic criteria (delivery cost, operational capability, and risk management), service quality (order fulfillment, delivery speed, convenience of payment, online/offline service level, and customer feedback), and technology (web design, real-time tracking systems, and marketing techniques). To achieve this objective, this work proposes a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM)-based framework combining the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and the weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS). The FAHP is used to generate criteria weights in which fuzzy set theory is applied to translate the linguistic evaluation statements of experts. Then, WASPAS is used to rank the OFD companies against the selected criteria. The evaluation criteria that have obtained maximum weight priority in the FAHP analysis are "convenience of payment", "delivery speed", "online service level", "order fulfillment", and "delivery cost". From the final ranking of WASPAS, Foody is today the best performing OFD player in Vietnam regarding the selected criteria, followed by GrabFood and Now. The proposed methodology can be an accurate and robust evaluation model for the industry, while the managerial implications of this study provide significant materials for decision-makers in the OFD market in improving their businesses towards sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]