Showing papers by "Military Academy published in 2021"

An integrated BWM-LBWA-CoCoSo framework for evaluation of healthcare sectors in Eastern Europe

Abstract: In this study, an integrated multi-criteria framework is developed to evaluate a healthcare sector which is one of the main infrastructures for any country. Healthcare sector plays a significant role in economic development and social sustainability of countries. To improve performance of healthcare sectors, it is essentially required to evaluate the healthcare systems based on their specific characteristics in order to resolve their performance related issues based on sustainable development principles under social aspect. For this purpose, the proposed integrated framework applies a novel hybrid weight determination model using best-worst method (BWM) and level based weight assessment (LBWA) to determine the weights of healthcare indicators and subsequently, combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) method is further applied to evaluate healthcare performances of several countries according to the pre-determined indicator weights. To show applicability of the proposed framework, a real time case study for seven countries in Eastern Europe is considered based on the data set of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Results show that Lithuania and Slovakia have the best healthcare systems in comparison to countries like Poland and Estonia.

Nonlinear forced vibration of sandwich cylindrical panel with negative Poisson’s ratio auxetic honeycombs core and CNTRC face sheets

Abstract: Recently, auxetic cellular solids in the forms of honeycombs and carbon nanotube reinforced composite (CNTRC) have great potential in a diverse range of applications. This paper studies the nonlinear free and forced vibration of sandwich cylindrical panel on visco-Pasternak foundations in thermal environment subjected to blast load The sandwich cylindrical panel consists of auxetic honeycombs core layer and two CNTRC face sheets. The Poisson’ ratio of the auxetic core is negative and the material properties of CNTRC face sheets are assumed to continuously vary in the thickness direction according to four different types of linear functions. The blast load is determined from the distance of the center of blast to center of the structure and the mass of explosive materials. The fundamental equations are established based on Reddy’s higher order shear deformation shell theory taking into account the effect of initial imperfection and visco-Pasternak foundations. The Galerkin and Runge–Kutta methods are used to obtain the nonlinear dynamic response and the natural frequency of the sandwich cylindrical panel. The numerical results show the effect of geometrical parameters, visco foundations, initial imperfection, temperature increment, nanotube volume fraction and blast load on the nonlinear vibration characteristics of the sandwich cylindrical panel. The accuracy of present approach and theoretical results is verified by some comparisons with the known data in the literature.

A new intelligent MCDM model for HCW management: The integrated BWM–MABAC model based on D numbers

Abstract: Healthcare waste (HCW) management is a complex and challenging problem. It is one of the priorities in health. An increase in the number of the health services provided leads to an increase in the amount of HCW, which has particularly been noticeable in recent years. Since this is the waste that may pose a risk to humans and the environment, it is necessary to ensure an adequate treatment of the same. HCW management is particularly important in developing countries, due to inappropriate disposal methods, underfunding and a lack of the infrastructure. In order to achieve the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of this area, HCW should be minimized through an adequate treatment of the same. The Public Enterprise Zdravstvo Brcko (Brcko Health System) has intensively been addressing the HCW management issue. They have decided to upgrade the HCW system by purchasing a new infectious waste treatment facility. The paper is aimed at creating a new original integrated multicriteria decision-making model based on D numbers for processing fuzzy linguistic information. This model will serve to support management in the procurement of the mentioned facility. The model integrates the benefits of different approaches and theories. An initial model was formed, consisting of the six potential solutions evaluated based on the 18 criteria classified into the following four groups: social, environmental, economic and technological. Four experts in this field evaluated the criteria and potential solutions. Then, a new Best-Worst Method based on D numbers (BWM-D) was applied in order to determine the significance of the criteria. After that, a Multi-Attributive Border Approximation Area Comparison Based on D numbers (MABAC-D) was developed and applied so as to evaluate and select an infectious waste treatment facility. The results have shown that the alternative A1 gives the best results, whereas the alternative A5 shows the worst results. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was performed to validate the obtained results. In this part of the paper, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS-D) and VIsekriterijumska Optimizacija Kompromisnog Resenja (VIKOR-D) were developed in order to validate the results. When procuring a new Contagious Waste Treatment System, the characteristics of the available devices need be perceived and all the criteria need be taken into account in order to provide a device which will solve the HCW problem in the best way. This paper has shown how D numbers can be used when making a selection of an HCW management device, and also how all the characteristics of such a device can be perceived and how the device demonstrating the best characteristics can be selected.

3D Printing Techniques and Their Applications to Organ-on-a-Chip Platforms: A Systematic Review

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models, such as organ-on-a-chip platforms, are an emerging and effective technology that allows the replication of the function of tissues and organs, bridging the gap amid the conventional models based on planar cell cultures or animals and the complex human system. Hence, they have been increasingly used for biomedical research, such as drug discovery and personalized healthcare. A promising strategy for their fabrication is 3D printing, a layer-by-layer fabrication process that allows the construction of complex 3D structures. In contrast, 3D bioprinting, an evolving biofabrication method, focuses on the accurate deposition of hydrogel bioinks loaded with cells to construct tissue-engineered structures. The purpose of the present work is to conduct a systematic review (SR) of the published literature, according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, providing a source of information on the evolution of organ-on-a-chip platforms obtained resorting to 3D printing and bioprinting techniques. In the literature search, PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases were used, and two authors independently performed the search, study selection, and data extraction. The goal of this SR is to highlight the importance and advantages of using 3D printing techniques in obtaining organ-on-a-chip platforms, and also to identify potential gaps and future perspectives in this research field. Additionally, challenges in integrating sensors in organs-on-chip platforms are briefly investigated and discussed.

Modeling of neuro-fuzzy system as a support in decision-making processes

Abstract: In the paper is presented Neuro-Fuzzy System as a decision-making support in the selection of construction machines (the example of selecting a loader is provided). Construction characteristics of a loader make the basis for selection, but also other elements of importance. The data for Neuro-Fuzzy System modeling are prepared using the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods: Logarithm Methodology of Additive Weights (LMAW), VIKOR, TOPSIS, MOORA and SAW. The paper also presents the method of aggregation of weights of rules premises (AWRP), which defines the key rules of Neuro-Fuzzy System. Finally, the training of the model is tested. The data for the selection of input variables and for model training are obtained by engaging experts

A new logarithm methodology of additive weights (lmaw) for multi-criteria decision-making: application in logistics

Abstract: Logistics management has been playing a significant role in ensuring competitive growth of industries and nations. This study proposes a new Multi-Criteria Decision-making (MCDM) framework for evaluating operational efficiency of logistics service provider (LSP). We present a case study of comparative analysis of six leading LSPs in India using our proposed framework. We consider three operational metrics such as annual overhead expense (OE), annual fuel consumption (FC) and cost of delay (CoD, two qualitative indicators such as innovativeness (IN) which basically indicates process innovation and average customer rating (CR)and one outcome variable such as turnover (TO) as the criteria for comparative analysis. The result shows that the final ranking is a combined effect of all criteria. However, it is evident that IN largely influences the ranking. We carry out a comparative analysis of the results obtained from our proposed method with that derived by using existing established frameworks. We find that our method provides consistent results; it is more stable and does not suffer from rank reversal problem.

Performance evaluation of an insurance company using an integrated Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and Best-Worst Method (BWM)

Abstract: Recent economy and financial business environment is undergoing quick and accelerating revolution and paradigm shift, resulting in growing uncertainty and complexity. Therefore, the need for an all-inclusive and far-reaching performance measurement model is universally felt as it can provide management-oriented information and act as a supporting tool in developing, inspecting and interpreting policy-making strategies of an enterprise to achieve competitive advantages. Hence, this paper proposes an application of balanced scorecard (BSC) model in an insurance organization for coordinating and regulating its corporate vision, mission and strategy with organizational performance through the interrelation of different layers of business perspectives. In the next stage, a framework to unify both BSC and best-worst method (BWM) models is implemented for the very first time in insurance domain to assess its performance over two-time periods. The integrated BSC-BWM model can help managers and decision-makers to figure out and interpret competing strength of the said enterprise and consecutively expedite in efficient and compelling decision making. Nevertheless, this integrated model is embraced and selected for a certain categorical business and there is enough future scope of its application to distinct industries.

Robust Aggregation Operators for Intuitionistic Fuzzy Hypersoft Set With Their Application to Solve MCDM Problem.

Abstract: In this paper, we investigate the multi-criteria decision-making complications under intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft set (IFHSS) information. The IFHSS is a proper extension of the intuitionistic fuzzy soft set (IFSS) which discusses the parametrization of multi-sub attributes of considered parameters, and accommodates more hesitation comparative to IFSS utilizing the multi sub-attributes of the considered parameters. The main objective of this research is to introduce operational laws for intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft numbers (IFHSNs). Additionally, based on developed operational laws two aggregation operators (AOs), i.e., intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft weighted average (IFHSWA) and intuitionistic fuzzy hypersoft weighted geometric (IFHSWG), operators have been presented with their fundamental properties. Furthermore, a decision-making approach has been established utilizing our developed aggregation operators (AOs). Through the established approach, a technique for solving decision-making (DM) complications is proposed to select sustainable suppliers in sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). Moreover, a numerical description is presented to ensure the validity and usability of the proposed technique in the DM process. The practicality, effectivity, and flexibility of the current approach are demonstrated through comparative analysis with the assistance of some prevailing studies.

Recent advances in silver bromide-based Z-scheme photocatalytic systems for environmental and energy applications: A review

Abstract: Development of artificial Z-scheme hybrid with remarkably high efficiency in the visible-light is an apparent way for preventing energy and environmental crises The present-day scenario in resolving water scarcities persistently all over the globe is an exploitation of reasonably low-cost routes to upkeep sustainability In this concern, silver bromide (AgBr) with other Z-scheme photo-active materials to modify an efficient visible-light driven photocatalyst has prompted an avalanche in the realm of photocatalysis Deliberating great execution and well-expressed development in the exploitation of AgBr based Z-scheme photo-active materials, we here present a comprehensive and rationalized study for energy and environmental applications A profound outline covering conventional photocatalysis alongside Z-scheme systems have been considered about their superficial synthetic methods and application in the environmental remediation With face-lift approaches, AgBr grounded Z-scheme systems specify wide range visible light absorption and effective spatial separation of created carriers, ensuing in efficient photocatalytic performance The mechanism assuming photo-carriers relocation and separation alongside the production of reactive species in the photodegradation process has also been emphasized and reviewed Conclusively, an across-the-board final remark is offered vis-a-vis current studies and future viewpoints for the progress of AgBr loaded Z-scheme photocatalysis

Evaluation and selection of healthcare waste incinerators using extended sustainability criteria and multi-criteria analysis methods

Abstract: Disposal of healthcare waste is a key issue of environmental sustainability in the world. The amount of healthcare waste is increasing every day, and it is necessary to adequately dispose of this kind of waste. There are various treatments for healthcare waste disposal, of which incineration of healthcare waste is one of the solutions. This paper suggests a model for selection of the type of incinerators that best solve the problem of healthcare waste in secondary healthcare institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In the selection of incinerators, extended sustainability criteria were applied. Basic sustainability criteria: environmental, economic, and social criteria, were extended with the technical criterion. To assess which of the incinerators best meets the needs for healthcare waste collection, multi-criteria decision-making was used. For this purpose, a combination of two MCDA methods was applied in this paper, namely full consistency method (FUCOM) and compromise ranking of alternatives from distance to ideal solution (CRADIS). The FUCOM method was applied to determine the weights of the criteria, while the CRADIS method was applied to rank the alternatives. The best alternative of the six alternatives used is A2 (I8-M50), followed by alternative A1 (I8-M40), while the worst ranked alternative is A5 (I8-M100). These results were confirmed by applying the other six methods of multi-criteria analysis and the performed sensitivity analysis. The contribution of this paper is reflected through a new method of multi-criteria analysis that was used to solve decision-making problems. This method has shown simplicity and flexibility in operation and can be used in all problems when it is necessary to make a multi-criteria selection of alternatives.

Generalized MULTIMOORA method and Dombi prioritized weighted aggregation operators based on T-spherical fuzzy sets and their applications

Abstract: In this manuscript, the technique of the generalized MULTIMOORA method is investigated by using the concept of a T‐spherical fuzzy set (T‐SFS), which is the modified idea of a picture fuzzy set to handle awkward and vague information in daily life problems. T‐SFS covers the degree of truth, abstinence, and falsity with a rule that the sum of the qth‐powers of all degrees is restricted to the unit interval. Moreover, for examining the interrelationships among any number of T‐SFSs, we construct the idea of T‐spherical fuzzy Dombi prioritized weighted arithmetic (T‐SFDPWA) aggregation operators, T‐spherical fuzzy Dombi prioritized arithmetic, T‐spherical fuzzy Dombi prioritized geometric, and T‐spherical fuzzy Dombi prioritized weighted geometric (T‐SFDPWG) aggregation operators are given. Then, the basic properties of T‐SFDPWA and T‐SFDPWG aggregation operators are investigated and discussed in some of their cases. The investigated operators based on T‐SFS are utilized in the environment of multiattribute decision‐making problems to find the consistency and proficiency of the developed operators. In last, we illustrated some numerical examples based on explored operators is to examine the reliability and validity of the investigated operators with the help of comparative analysis and graphical representations with some existing ideas to show the presented approaches are extensive powerful.

A study of magnetic properties of Y–Ni–Mn substituted Co2Z-type nanohexaferrites via vibrating sample magnetometry

Abstract: Z-type nanohexaferrites has attracted substantial attention in the field of materials science especially in the research areas of high frequency and microwave devices applications due to their excellent magnetic properties in comparison with the spinel ferrites. A series of Ba1.5Sr1.5Co2−xYxMnyNizFe24−y−zO41 (x = 0.0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20; y = z = 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.00) Z-type hexaferrites were fabricated with the help of sol–gel auto-combustion method in order to achieve its better microstructural and magnetic properties. The crystallographic structure of prepared specimens was characterized by XRD which revealed the presence of Z-type single-phase hexagonal structure with some additional phases accompanied by P63/mmc space group. The average particle size calculated by Scherrer formula was found to be in the range of 40–55 nm. The FTIR spectrum of synthesized specimens was observed in the range of 400–600 cm−1 which confirms our microstructural results to a great extent. From the M–H hysteresis loops, magnetic parameters such as saturation magnetization (Ms) (44.04–35.59 emu/g) and coercivity (Hc) (42.3–248.96 Oe) were measured and it was observed that the synthesized specimens exhibit excellent characteristics of soft ferrite which make it suitable for the multilayer chip inductors, electromagnets, and magnetic storage devices applications.

Effective adsorption of crystal violet from aqueous solutions with effective adsorbent: equilibrium, mechanism studies and modeling analysis

Abstract: In this work, NaOH-activated Aerva javanica leaf (NAJL) powder was successfully developed as a cost-effective adsorbent for removal of crystal violet (CV) from an aqueous environment. The prepared ...

Method for the level optimization of vehicle parameters when using fuels of different quality in cold climates

Abstract: The task of improving the efficiency of a motor vehicle during operation in cold climates is reduced to the task of ensuring integrated optimization of the main engine values and parameters with an unconditional assessment of ICE fuel quality. The task of ICE integrated optimization includes: justification of the choice of the main ICE values, based on the objectives and optimal solution of the tasks of efficient vehicle operation; assessment of the technology level of fuel and determination of its optimal composition; determination of the optimal parameters for the elements of ICE subsystems. Based on the proposed method for level optimization of ICE parameters when using fuels of different quality, an automated diesel fuel quality control system for vehicles used in regions with cold climates in the form of software was developed.

Investigation of Cyber-Security and Cyber-Crimes in Oil and Gas Sectors Using the Innovative Structures of Complex Intuitionistic Fuzzy Relations.

Abstract: Recently, there has been enormous development due to advancements in technology. Industries and enterprises are moving towards a digital system, and the oil and gas industries are no exception. There are several threats and risks in digital systems, which are controlled through cyber-security. For the first time in the theory of fuzzy sets, this research analyzes the relationships between cyber-security and cyber-crimes in the oil and gas sectors. The novel concepts of complex intuitionistic fuzzy relations (CIFRs) are introduced. Moreover, the types of CIFRs are defined and their properties are discussed. In addition, an application is presented that uses the Hasse diagram to make a decision regarding the most suitable cyber-security techniques to implement in an industry. Furthermore, the omnipotence of the proposed methods is explained by a comparative study.