A Comprehensive Overview of the ELECTRE Method in Multi-Criteria Decision-Making

The ELECTRE(ELimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalite)method has gained widespread recognition as one of the most effective multi-criteria decision-making(MCDM)methods.Its versatility allows it to be applied in a wide range of areas such as engineering,economics,business,environmental management and many others.This paper aims to provide an overview of the ELECTRE method,including its fundamental concepts,applications,advantages,and limitations.At its core,the ELECTRE method is an outranking family of MCDM techniques,which allows for the direct comparison of alternatives based on a set of criteria.The method takes into account the preferences and importance of decision-makers and generates a ranking of the alternatives based on their relative strengths and weaknesses.The ELECTRE method is a powerful tool for decision-making,and its applicability to a wide range of fields demonstrates its versatility and adaptability.By understanding its concepts,applications,merits,and demerits,decision-makers can use the ELECTRE method to make informed and effective decisions in a variety of contexts.

VIKOR Method-An Effective Compromising Ranking Technique for Decision Making

The VIKOR(VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje)method,which is a multi-criteria decision-making method,is examined in this paper.The VIKOR method,like other MCDM techniques such as the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution(TOPSIS),is widely used to solve complex decision-making problems in various fields such as engineering,management,and finance.This paper provides an overview of the VIKOR method,including its application areas,advantages,and disadvantages.Besides,in this survey paper,the process steps of the VIKOR method are described,including determining the decision matrix,normalizing the matrix,determining the weights of the criteria,calculating the utility and regret values,calculating the VIKOR index,and finally ranking the alternatives.By providing an overview of the VIKOR method and its process steps,this paper aims to provide a better understanding of the method and its potential application in different decision-making contexts.

SUBJECTIVE RADE-OFF RATE METHOD OF MULTIOBJECTIVE DECISION-MAKING

This paper proposes a mathod of subjective trade-off rate which describles decision-maker's preferince in multiobjective decision-making. Decision-maker can arbitrarity determine his subjective trade-off rate,but it is not sure to be effective.The paper finds aft effective upper bound of subjective trade-off rate,which is the KuhnThcker multiplier of some mathematical programming.For the anbjective trade-off rate not being larger than the upper bonnd,the solving method and properties of the optimal solution corresponding tile trade-off rate are discussed.The paper lastly develops the process of solving multiobjective decision-making with the subjective trade-off rate method.

A multi-criteria decision-making approach for comparing sample preservation and DNA extraction methods from swine feces

Molecular microbiological methods, such as competetive PCR, real-time PCR, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and large-scale parallel-pyrosequencing, require the extraction of sufficient quantity of high quality DNA from microbiologically and chemically complex matrices. Due to difficulties in the field to standardize/select the optimum DNA preservation-extraction methods in view of laboratories differences, this article attempts to present a straight-forward mathematical framework for comparing some of the most commonly used methods. To this end, as a case study, the problem of selecting an optimum sample preservation-DNA extraction strategy for obtaining total bacterial DNA from swine feces was considered. Two sample preservation methods (liquid nitrogen and RNAlater?) and seven extraction techniques were paired and compared under six quantitative DNA analysis criteria: yield of extraction, purity of extracted DNA (A260/280 and A 260/230 ratios), duration of extraction, degradation degree of DNA, and cost. From a practical point of view, it is unlikely that a single sample preservation-DNA extraction strategy can be optimum for all selected criteria. Hence, a systematic multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was used to compare the methods. As a result, the ZR Fecal DNA MiniPrepTM DNA extraction kit for samples preserved either with liquid nitrogen or RNAlater? were identified as potential optimum solutions for obtaining total bacterial DNA from swine feces. Considering the need for practicality for in situ applications, we would recommend liquid nitrogen as sample preservation method, along with the ZR Fecal DNA MiniPrepTM kit. Total bacterial DNA obtained by this strategy can be suitable for downstream PCR-based DNA analyses of swine feces.

Dynamic programming methodology for multi-criteria group decision-making under ordinal preferences

A method of minimizing rankings inconsistency is proposed for a decision-making problem with rankings of alternatives given by multiple decision makers according to multiple criteria. For each criteria, at first, the total inconsistency between the rankings of all alternatives for the group and the ones for every decision maker is defined after the decision maker weights in respect to the criteria are considered. Similarly, the total inconsistency between their final rankings for the group and the ones under every criteria is determined after the criteria weights are taken into account. Then two nonlinear integer programming models minimizing respectively the two total inconsistencies above are developed and then transformed to two dynamic programming models to obtain separately the rankings of all alternatives for the group with respect to each criteria and their final rankings. A supplier selection case illustrated the proposed method, and some discussions on the results verified its effectiveness. This work develops a new measurement of ordinal preferences’ inconsistency in multi-criteria group decision-making （MCGDM） and extends the cook-seiford social selection function to MCGDM considering weights of criteria and decision makers and can obtain unique ranking result.

Response surface method using grey relational analysis for decision making in weapon system selection

A proper weapon system is very important for a na- tional defense system. Generally, it means selecting the optimal weapon system among many alternatives, which is a multiple- attribute decision making （MADM） problem. This paper proposes a new mathematical model based on the response surface method （RSM） and the grey relational analysis （GRA）. RSM is used to obtain the experimental points and analyze the factors that have a significant impact on the selection results. GRA is used to an- alyze the trend relationship between alternatives and reference series. And then an RSM model is obtained, which can be used to calculate all alternatives and obtain ranking results. A real world application is introduced to illustrate the utilization of the model for the weapon selection problem. The results show that this model can be used to help decision-makers to make a quick comparison of alternatives and select a proper weapon system from multiple alternatives, which is an effective and adaptable method for solving the weapon system selection problem.

Multi-attributed decision making for mining methods based on grey system and interval numbers

In the case of unknown weights, theories of multi-attributed decision making based on interval numbers and grey related analysis were used to optimize mining methods. As the representative of independence for the indicator, the smaller the correlation of indicators is, the greater the weight is. Hence, the weights of interval numbers of indicators were determined by using correlation coefficient. Relative closeness based on positive and negative ideal methods was calculated by introducing distance between interval numbers, which made decision making more rational and comprehensive. A new method of ranking interval numbers based on normal distribution was proposed for the optimization of mining methods, whose basic properties were discussed. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of this method were verified by theories and practice.

Solution to multiple attribute group decision making problems with two decision makers

A kind of multiple attribute group decision making （MAGDM） problem is discussed from the perspective of statistic decision-making. Firstly, on the basis of the stability theory, a new idea is proposed to solve this kind of problem. Secondly, a con- crete method corresponding to this kind of problem is proposed. The main tool of our research is the technique o~ the jackknife method. The main advantage of the new method is that it can identify and determine the reliability degree of the existed decision making information. Finally, a traffic engineering example is given to show the effectiveness of the new method.

Maximizing deviation method for multiple attribute decision making under q-rung orthopair fuzzy environment

Because of the uncertainty and subjectivity of decision makers in the complex decision-making environment,the evaluation information of alternatives given by decision makers is often fuzzy and uncertain.As a generalization of intuitionistic fuzzy set(IFSs)and Pythagoras fuzzy set(PFSs),q-rung orthopair fuzzy set(q-ROFS)is more suitable for expressing fuzzy and uncertain information.But,in actual multiple attribute decision making(MADM)problems,the weights of DMs and attributes are always completely unknown or partly known,to date,the maximizing deviation method is a good tool to deal with such issues.Thus,combine the q-ROFS and conventional maximizing deviation method,we will study the maximizing deviation method under q-ROFSs and q-RIVOFSs in this paper.Firstly,we briefly introduce the basic concept of q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets(q-ROFSs)and q-rung interval-valued orthopair fuzzy sets(q-RIVOFSs).Then,combine the maximizing deviation method with q-rung orthopair fuzzy information,we establish two new decision making models.On this basis,the proposed models are applied to MADM problems with q-rung orthopair fuzzy information.Compared with existing methods,the effectiveness and superiority of the new model are analyzed.This method can effectively solve the MADM problem whose decision information is represented by q-rung orthopair fuzzy numbers(q-ROFNs)and whose attributes are incomplete.

Kind of Fuzzy Method Determining Index Weight on Multi-Objctive Decision Making

Based on fuzzy characteristic of dicision-making thought, matrix of priority relation has been introduced and blurrized. A kind of fuzzy method, which is to determine the index weight on multi-objective decision making, has been put forward by means of the sequence root method for analysis of hierarchical process (AHP). Using this method an example which is to define the index weigbt on multi-objective decision making in thc scheme optimization of mine design has been given.

Analysis on decision-making model of plan evaluation based on grey relation projection and combination weight algorithm

In military service joint operations, when there are more operational forces, more multifarious materials are consumed, the support is more complex and fuzzy, the deployment of personnel is more rapid, and the support provided by wartime military material support powers can be more effective. When the principles,requirements, influencing factors and goals of military material support forces are deployed in wartime, an evaluation indicator system is established. Thus, a new combined empowerment method based on an analytic hierarchy process（AHP） is developed to calculate the subjective weights, and the rough entropy method is used to calculate the objective weights. Combination weights can be obtained by calculating the weight preference coefficient error, which is determined by combining the cooperative game method and the minimum deviation into objectives. This approach can determine the grey relation projection coefficient and synthesize the measure scheme superiority to finally optimize the deployment plan using the grey relation projection decision-making method. The results show that the method is feasible and effective;it can provide a more scientific and practical decision-making basis for the military material support power deployment in wartime.

A Simple Additive Weighting Method for Time-SeriesMultiindices Decision Making and Its Applications

This paper takes the evaluation of overall economic benefit by an example and proposes a simple additive weighting method for time-series multiindices decision making. The method can automatically determine the weight coefficients among the multiindices and the years respectively and it also can obtain the objective evaluation results and conclusions.

Approach of technical decision-making by element flow analysis and Monte-Carlo simulation of municipal solid waste stream

This paper deals with the procedure and methodology which can be used to select the optimal treatment and disposal technology of municipal solid waste （MSW）, and to provide practical and effective technical support to policy-making, on the basis of study on solid waste management status and development trend in China and abroad. Focusing on various treatment and disposal technologies and processes of MSW, this study established a Monte-Carlo mathematical model of cost minimization for MSW handling subjected to environmental constraints. A new method of element stream （such as C, H, O, N, S） analysis in combination with economic stream analysis of MSW was developed. By following the streams of different treatment processes consisting of various techniques from generation, separation, transfer, transport, treatment, recycling and disposal of the wastes, the element constitution as well as its economic distribution in terms of possibility functions was identified. Every technique step was evaluated economically. The Mont-Carlo method was then conducted for model calibration. Sensitivity analysis was also carried out to identify the most sensitive factors. Model calibration indicated that landfill with power generation of landfill gas was economically the optimal technology at the present stage under the condition of more than 58% of C, H, O, N, S going to landfill. Whether or not to generate electricity was the most sensitive factor. If landfilling cost increases, MSW separation treatment was recommended by screening first followed with incinerating partially and composting partially with residue landfilling. The possibility of incineration model selection as the optimal technology was affected by the city scale. For big cities and metropolitans with large MSW generation, possibility for constructing large-scale incineration facilities increases, whereas, for middle and small cities, the effectiveness of incinerating waste decreases.

Ranking environmental projects model based on multicriteria decision-making and the weight sensitivity analysis

With the fast growth of Chinese economic, more and more capital will be invested in environmental projects. How to select the environmental investment projects （alternatives） for obtaining the best environmental quality and economic benefits is an important problem for the decision makers. The purpose of this paper is to develop a decision-making model to rank a finite number of alternatives with several and sometimes conflicting criteria. A model for ranking the projects of municipal sewage treatment plants is proposed by using exports＇ information and the data of the real projects. And, the ranking result is given based on the PROMETHEE method. Furthermore, by means of the concept of the weight stability intervals （WSI）, the sensitivity of the ranking results to the size of criteria values and the change of weights value of criteria are discussed. The result shows that some criteria, such as “proportion of benefit to project cost”, will influence the ranking result of alternatives very strong while others not. The influence are not only from the value of criterion but also from the changing the weight of criterion. So, some criteria such as “proportion of benefit to project cost” are key critera for ranking the projects. Decision makers must be cautious to them.

A BOUNDARY ELEMENT METHOD FOR STEADY SHIP WAVE-MAKING POTENTIAL PROBLEMS

A boundary element method for three-dimensional steady ship wave-making potential problems is established with the Rankine source function as its fundamental solution. In the treatment of the linearized free surface condition, one-sided, upstream finite difference operator (FDO) is used to suppress the upstream waves, and the equation of the disturbance velocity is established so that the first order FDO can be used in place of the second order FDO. Compared with the method with the second order FDO, the current method gives better precision and stability. Numerical examples are presented for verification.

Sustainable Dyeing Solution Methods to making cotton more eco-friendly

Throughout the supply chain,there is interest in conserving resources and reducing the textile industry's environmental footprint.Every stage of a textile product's life cycle has environmental impacts-from fiber production through manufacturing and retailing to laundering and disposal by consumers.Of particular concern is the use of water,energy,and chemicals(WEC) in textile processing-an area where technological advances offer significant savings in resources and environmental benefits.In cotton textile processing, dyeing and finishing have the largest WEC requirements and therefore offer the greatest scope for reductions.

Perceptions of Collaboration and Satisfaction with Collaboration Regarding Care Decision-Making in Intensive Care Units in Japan: A National Survey

Multi-professional collaboration is being promoted worldwide as a response to the need for sophisticated medical care and for catering to patients’ diverse needs. Patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are seriously ill, and their families may be at risk depending on the patient’s situation. Considering these characteristics of patients and families, there is a strong need for multi-professional collaboration within ICUs. The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine recognition and other factors related to collaboration and satisfaction involving care decisions in Japanese ICUs. A mail survey about collaboration of activities and systems was sent to physicians, clinical engineers, and nurses working in ICUs in Japan, 387 consented to participate in this study. Results showed that satisfaction scores were generally high among the three aforementioned professions, but collaboration scores on deciding care for patients showed significant differences (p < 0.05). The total collaboration score was the highest among physicians (36.7 ± 6.7 points), followed by nurses (32.8 ± 7.4 points), and CEs (32.8 ± 7.4 points). The factors that commonly affected collaboration scores were the satisfaction score and the ability to collaborate with other professionals and set team medical care as a goal. Moreover, it is worth noting that the degree of difficulty in collaboration negatively affected this factor. On the other hand, other factors differed among the three professions, suggesting that the purpose and need for collaboration differ depending on the profession.

基于组合赋权与灰云模型的综合能源系统需求响应效益评价

考虑到当前综合能源系统研究缺乏完善的需求响应量化评估方案,难以在优化运行层面综合评估需求响应效益这一问题,提出了一种基于改进AHP群决策—CRITIC组合赋权与灰云模型的综合能源系统需求响应效益评价方法。首先,从综合能效性、社会经济性和需求侧互动性三个维度构建了需求响应效益评价指标体系。其次,采用一致性和权重拟合性更优的指数标度法构造判断矩阵,降低赋值误差,并通过AHP群决策法确定主观权重,从而削弱主观极值偏差对权重的影响;在由CRITIC法确定客观权重后,基于最小欧氏距离建立组合权重模型,并通过非线性规划求取最优组合权重;针对评价等级信息的模糊性与隶属等级的随机性,采用正态灰云白化权模型确定指标分类等级与场景评分。最后,以北方某综合能源系统为例,根据用户参与需求响应方式设置了4种运行场景,分析了不同需求响应对系统运行的影响与作用,算例结果表明所提指标体系与评价方法科学有效。

基于装置运行平稳性的石油化工安全管理策略研究

为了找出并评价石化装置支配性风险因素,实现安全生产风险源头控制和管理,满足石化装置安全生产风险控制的高效性要求,通过建立石化装置事故风险影响模型,运用决策试验与评估实验室方法(DEMATEL)从“现代事故因果连锁理论”视角分析发现人、机(物)等风险因素都受管理因素支配。进而,基于工艺稳定性、工艺稳定性修正、非计划停工3个指标建立石化装置平稳性模型,对装置运行平稳率进行追踪统计,并通过实例对该模型进行了分析和验证。结果表明:该石化装置运行平稳性模型可以量化追踪事故风险支配性因素的控制效果,可展示石化装置不同阶段下的风险特点,可作为装置事故风险预警指标和安全管理绩效指标,可提高装置的安全管理水平。

区间函数型数据构权方法研究

针对由数据量过大而引起的函数型综合评价信息损失或是计算复杂度过大等问题,文中提出了一种基于区间函数型数据的综合评价方法,并针对区间函数型数据表支持的综合评价问题的特殊性,提出了一种新的确定权重系数的"全局"拉开档次法.相较于函数型综合评价,区间函数型综合评价在呈现连续的函数特征同时,增加了区间化的步骤,能够更好地挖掘数据信息,提升综合评价的效率.最后通过以义乌小商品景气指数为例,分别使用函数型数据形式和区间函数型数据形式下的"全局"拉开档次法对其进行赋权,进而进行评价研究.结果表明该文提出的区间函数型综合评价方法更具优势.