Behavioral Decision-Making of Key Stakeholders in Public-Private Partnerships:A Hybrid Method and Benefit Distribution Study

Public-private partnerships(PPPs)have been used by governments around the world to procure and construct infrastructural amenities.It relies on private sector expertise and funding to achieve this lofty objective.However,given the uncertainties of project management,transparency,accountability,and expropriation,this phenomenon has gained tremendous attention in recent years due to the important role it plays in curbing infrastructural deficits globally.Interestingly,the reasonable benefit distribution scheme in a PPP project is related to the behavior decisionmaking of the government and social capital,aswell as the performance of the project.In this paper,the government and social capital which are the key stakeholders of PPP projects were selected as the research objects.Based on the fuzzy expected value model and game theory,a hybrid method was adopted in this research taking into account the different risk preferences of both public entities and private parties under the fuzzy demand environment.To alleviate the problem of insufficient utilization of social capital in a PPP project,this paper seeks to grasp the relationship that exists between the benefit distribution of stakeholders,their behavioral decision-making,and project performance,given that they impact the performance of both public entities and private parties,as well as assist in maximizing the overall utility of the project.Furthermore,four game models were constructed in this study,while the expected value and opportunity-constrained programming model for optimal decision-making were derived using alternate perspectives of both centralized decision-making and decentralized decision-making.Afterward,the optimal behavioral decision-making of public entities and private parties in four scenarios was discussed and thereafter compared,which led to an ensuing discussion on the benefit distribution system under centralized decision-making.Lastly,based on an example case,the influence of different confidence levels,price,and fuzzy uncertainties of PPP projects on the equilibrium strategy results of both parties were discussed,giving credence to the effectiveness of the hybrid method.The results indicate that adjusting different confidence levels yields different equilibriumpoints,and therefore signposts that social capital has a fair perception of opportunities,as well as identifies reciprocal preferences.Nevertheless,we find that an increase in the cost coefficient of the government and social capital does not inhibit the effort of both parties.Our results also indicate that a reasonable benefit distribution of PPP projects can assist them in realizing optimum Pareto improvements over time.The results provide us with very useful strategies and recommendations to improve the overall performance of PPP projects in China.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Optimal Decision-Making of Trans-Provincial Electricity Market Subjects with Risks under Renewable Portfolio Standards

The randomness and uncertainty of renewable energy generation are expected to significantly change the optimal decision-making of trans-provincial electricity market subjects.Therefore,it is beneficial to optimize the interests of each of these subjects,considering the unpredictable risks of renewable energy under the renewable portfolio standards(RPS)and researching their effects on the optimal decision-making of transprovincial electricity market multi-subjects.First,we develop a trans-provincial trading market mechanism for renewable energy and clarify the electricity supply and demand relation and the green certificates supply and demand relation of trans-provincial electricitymarketmulti-subjects.Then,under the RPS,we construct a multi-subject game model of the power supply chain that recognizes the risks,and adopt the reverse induction method to discuss the optimum risk-taking judgment of each subject in the trans-provincial electricity market.Finally,we useMATLAB to verify the viability and efficacy of the proposed gamemodel,and obtain a certain reference value for the optimal decision-making of trans-provincial electricity market subjects.In summary,we consider the uncertainty risks of renewable energy under RPS,study the effects of the green certificate price and risk aversion coefficient in the RPS mechanism on the optimal decisionmaking of trans-provincial electricity market subjects,and obtain the changing trends of two different power products and those of different electricity market subjects under the influence of the green certificate price and risk aversion coefficient,which have a certain reference value for studying the factors affecting the optimal decision-making of trans-provincial electricity market subjects.

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.

Aggregation operators and CRITIC-VIKOR method for confidence complex q-rung orthopair normal fuzzy information and their applications

Supply chain management is an essential part of an organisation's sustainable programme.Understanding the concentration of natural environment,public,and economic influence and feasibility of your suppliers and purchasers is becoming progressively familiar as all industries are moving towards a massive sustainable potential.To handle such sort of developments in supply chain management the involvement of fuzzy settings and their generalisations is playing an important role.Keeping in mind this role,the aim of this study is to analyse the role and involvement of complex q-rung orthopair normal fuzzy(CQRONF)information in supply chain management.The major impact of this theory is to analyse the notion of confidence CQRONF weighted averaging,confidence CQRONF ordered weighted averaging,confidence CQRONF hybrid averaging,confidence CQRONF weighted geometric,confidence CQRONF ordered weighted geometric,confidence CQRONF hybrid geometric operators and try to diagnose various properties and results.Furthermore,with the help of the CRITIC and VIKOR models,we diagnosed the novel theory of the CQRONF-CRITIC-VIKOR model to check the sensitivity analysis of the initiated method.Moreover,in the availability of diagnosed operators,we constructed a multi-attribute decision-making tool for finding a beneficial sustainable supplier to handle complex dilemmas.Finally,the initiated operator's efficiency is proved by comparative analysis.

Multi-objective optimization and evaluation of supercritical CO_(2) Brayton cycle for nuclear power generation

The supercritical CO_(2) Brayton cycle is considered a promising energy conversion system for Generation IV reactors for its simple layout,compact structure,and high cycle efficiency.Mathematical models of four Brayton cycle layouts are developed in this study for different reactors to reduce the cost and increase the thermohydraulic performance of nuclear power generation to promote the commercialization of nuclear energy.Parametric analysis,multi-objective optimizations,and four decision-making methods are applied to obtain each Brayton scheme’s optimal thermohydraulic and economic indexes.Results show that for the same design thermal power scale of reactors,the higher the core’s exit temperature,the better the Brayton cycle’s thermo-economic performance.Among the four-cycle layouts,the recompression cycle(RC)has the best overall performance,followed by the simple recuperation cycle(SR)and the intercooling cycle(IC),and the worst is the reheating cycle(RH).However,RH has the lowest total cost of investment(C_(tot))of$1619.85 million,and IC has the lowest levelized cost of energy(LCOE)of 0.012$/(kWh).The nuclear Brayton cycle system’s overall performance has been improved due to optimization.The performance of the molten salt reactor combined with the intercooling cycle(MSR-IC)scheme has the greatest improvement,with the net output power(W_(net)),thermal efficiencyη_(t),and exergy efficiency(η_(e))improved by 8.58%,8.58%,and 11.21%,respectively.The performance of the lead-cooled fast reactor combined with the simple recuperation cycle scheme was optimized to increase C_(tot) by 27.78%.In comparison,the internal rate of return(IRR)increased by only 7.8%,which is not friendly to investors with limited funds.For the nuclear Brayton cycle,the molten salt reactor combined with the recompression cycle scheme should receive priority,and the gas-cooled fast reactor combined with the reheating cycle scheme should be considered carefully.

Synergizing Wind,Solar,and Biomass Power:Ranking Analysis of Off-Grid System for Different Weather Conditions of Iran

Nowadays,the use of renewable energies,especially wind,solar,and biomass,is essential as an effective solution to address global environmental and economic challenges.Therefore,the current study examines the energy-economic-environmental analysis of off-grid electricity generation systems using solar panels,wind turbines,and biomass generators in various weather conditions in Iran.Simulations over 25 years were conducted using HOMER v2.81 software,aiming to determine the potential of each region and find the lowest cost of electricity production per kWh.In the end,to identify the most suitable location,the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution(TOPSIS)method was employed to rank different stations based on simulation output parameters and some other influential factors.Considering the evaluation of various parameters,the stations in Yazd,Marand,and Dezful achieved the best results,while the stations in Ramsar,Shahrekord,and Gonbad presented the least favorable outcomes.In Yazd,the wind turbine is an economic priority,and a 100 kW wind turbine is utilized in the optimal system.In Yazd,where the simultaneous use of renewable energies is most prominent,the lowest pollutant production occurred with a quantity of 1174 kg/year.Annual energy losses are highest in Jask station and lowest in Yazd.

GIS Application in Urban Flood Risk Analysis: Midar as a Case Study

The significance of this study lies in its exploration of the advanced applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in assessing urban flood risks, with a specific focus on Midar, Morocco. This research is pivotal as it showcases that GIS technology is not just a tool for mapping, but a critical component in urban planning and emergency management strategies. By meticulously identifying and mapping flood-prone areas in Midar, the study provides invaluable insights into the potential vulnerabilities of urban landscapes to flooding. Moreover, this research demonstrates the practical utility of GIS in mitigating material losses, a significant concern in flood-prone urban areas. The proactive approach proposed in this study, centered around the use of GIS, aims to safeguard Midar’s population and infrastructure from the devastating impacts of floods. This approach serves as a model for other urban areas facing similar challenges, highlighting the indispensable role of GIS in disaster preparedness and response. Overall, the study underscores the transformative potential of GIS in enhancing urban resilience, making it a crucial tool in the fight against natural disasters like floods.

Using ELECTRE-TRI and FlowSort methods in a stock portfolio selection context

In recent years,multi-criteria sorting problems have become an interesting topic for researchers working on multi-criteria decision-making.ELimination and Choice Expressing REality(ELECTRE)-TRI and FlowSort are well-known approaches suggested for such a classification.The current study aimed to implement ELECTRE-TRI and FlowSort methods in the stock portfolio selection(SPS)as one of the most popular and important decision-making subjects and compare the outcomes of each method to understand how these methods perform in SPS problems.In this study,the best–worst method was applied to determine the weights of criteria.Four approaches for ELECTRE-TRI and 15 approaches for FlowSort were considered.Finally,19 different approaches were considered to select stocks from a large pool of stocks.Results indicated that the model parameter should be properly defined to minimize inconsistencies and improve the power of the model.

Mixed Least Square Method for Priority of Complementary Judgement Matrix and Its Algorithm

Based on the concept of multiplicative fuzzy consistent complementary judgement matrix, the mixed least square method （MLSM） for priority of complementary judgement matrix is proposed and proved. Then, the corresponding convergent iterative algorithm is given and its convergence is proved. Finally, some main properties of the developed priority method, such as rank preservation under strong condition, etc., ate introduced. The theoretical analyses show that the MLSM can sufficiently reflect the preference information of the decision maker, and is easy to realize on a computer.

Fuzzy-logic Method for Global Quality Optimization Problem of the Programmed Action Investment

In order to analyze the planning of a transport linear infrastructure(railway or ordinary road),in order to optimize a relationship work-environment after-work,the study team(engineers,architects,economists,etc),realize a careful prearranged analysis about the characteristic of the site and the large area which are involved by the work project and,once one found all possible alternative solutions,he should compare them through the use of suitable technical,economical and environmental parameters,choosing that one which maximize the global utility of the public investment.In this paper we study a fuzzy-logic method in order to help the decision maker in the analysis of the programmed action public investment.

Multi-Objective Optimization for an Industrial Grinding and Classification Process Based on PBM and RSM

The grinding and classification process is one of the key sub-processes in mineral processing, which influences the final process indexes significantly and determines energy and ball consumption of the whole plant. Therefore, optimal control of the process has been very important in practice. In order to stabilize the grinding index and improve grinding capacity in the process,a process model based on population balance model(PBM) is calibrated in this study. The correlation between the mill power and the operating variables in the grinding process is modelled by using the response surface method(RSM), which solves the problem where the traditional power modeling method relies on some unobservable mechanism-related parameters. On this basis, a multi-objective optimization model is established to maximize the useful power of the grinding circuit to improve the throughput of the grinding operation and improve the fraction of –0.074 mm particles in the hydrocyclone overflow to smooth the subsequent flotation operation. The elite non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II(NSGA-II) is then employed to solve the multi-objective optimization problem. Finally, subjective and objective weighting methods and integrated multi-attribute decision-making methods are used to select the optimal solution on the Pareto optimal solution set. The results demonstrate that the throughput of the mill and the fraction of –0.074 mm particles in the overflow of the cyclone are increased by 3.83 t/h and 2.53%, respectively.

Selecting suitable key supplier for core components during smart complex equipment central-private enterprises collaborative development process:from two different forms of evaluation information and matching perspective

With the development of central-private enterprises integration,selecting suitable key suppliers are able to provide core components for smart complex equipment.We consider selecting suitable key suppliers from matching perspective,for it not only satisfies natural development of smart complex equipment,it is also a good implementation of equipment project in central-private enterprises integration context.In in this paper,we carry out two parts of research,one is evaluation attributes based on comprehensive analysis,and the other is matching process between key suppliers and core components based on the matching attribute.In practical analysis process,we employ comprehensive evaluated analysis methods to acquire relevant attributes for the matching process that follows.In the analysis process,we adopt entropy-maximum deviation method(MDM)-decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory(DEMATEL)-technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution(TOPSIS)to obtain a comprehensive analysis.The entropy-MDM is applied to get weight value,DEMATEL is utilized to obtain internal relations,and TOPSIS is adopted to get ideal evaluated solution.We consider aggregating two types of evaluation information according to similarities of smart complex equipment based on the combination between geometric mean and arithmetic mean.Moreover,based on the aforementioned attributes and generalized power Heronian mean operator,we aggregate preference information to acquire relevant satisfaction degree,then combine the constructed matching model to get suitable key supplier.Through comprehensive analysis of selecting suitable suppliers,we know that two-sided matching and information aggregation can provide more research perspectives for smart complex equipment.Through analysis for relevant factors,we find that leading role and service level are also significant for the smart complex equipment development process.

Research on the Infuence of Multiple Parameters on the Responses of a B-type Subway Train

To obtain improved comprehensive crashworthiness criteria for a B-type subway train,the infuence laws of the vehicle design collision weight M and empty stroke D on the train’s collision responses were investigated,and multiobjective optimization and decision-making were performed to minimize TS(total compression displacement along the moving train)and TAMA(the overall mean acceleration along the moving train).Firstly,a one-dimensional train collision dynamics model was established and verifed by comparing with the results of the fnite element model.Secondly,based on the dynamics model,the infuence laws of M and D on the collision responses,such as the energy-absorbing devices’displacements and absorbed energy,vehicles’velocity and acceleration,TS,TAMA and the coupling correlation efect were investigated.Then,surrogate models for TS and TAMA were developed using the optimal Latin hypercube method(OLHD)and response surface method(RSM),and multi-objective optimization was conducted using the particle swarm optimization algorithm method(MPOSO).Finally,the entropy method was used to obtain the weight coefcients for TS and TAMA,and multi-objective decision-making was performed.The results indicate that D and M signifcantly afect the compression displacements and energy absorption of the frst three collision interfaces,but have limited impact on the last three collision interfaces.The velocity versus time curves of vehicle M1 and M2 are shifted and parallel with diferent D.However,the velocity versus time curves of all the vehicles are shifted but gradually divergent with diferent M.The maximum collision instantaneous accelerations of the vehicles are directly determined by M,but are only slightly afected by D.Under the coupling efect,all concerned collision responses are strongly correlated with M;however,the responses are weakly correlated with D except for the compression displacement at the M2-M3 collision interface and the maximum collision instantaneous acceleration of vehicle M2.The comprehensive crashworthiness criteria of the B-type subway train were signifcantly improved after multi-objective optimization and decision-making.The research provides more theoretical and engineering application references for the subway train crashworthiness design.

Credit granting sorting model for financial organizations

Considering the environment of risks and influences inherent in the decision-making process for credit-granting operations,it has become a matter of survival for financial organizations to seek to improve how they engage in effective decision-making to ensure that their returns on invested capital will meet the expectations established at the beginning of the process.A credit-granting sorting model for financial organizations is proposed.The model aggregates the perspectives of different decision-makers to support an organization in the process of credit analysis and,consequently,to improve its operationality.The decision-making model is based on the ELECTRE TRI-B multicriteria method.It sorts credit-granting proposals into three classes,namely credit approved,technical analysis,and credit rejected.The group decision emerges from the decision rules of the organization’s executive board.This new proposed approach to dealing with credit-granting results in the systematization of credit analysis,reduction of doubt among decision-makers,avoidance of the emergence of informal groups,reduction of conflicts within a financial organization,and external interferences.

Dombi-Normalized Weighted Bonferroni Mean Operators with Novel Multiple-Valued Complex Neutrosophic Uncertain Linguistic Sets and Their Application in Decision Making

Although fuzzy set concepts have evolved,neutrosophic sets are attractingmore attention due to the greater power of the structure of neutrosophic sets.The ability to account for components that are true,false or neither true nor false is useful in the resolution of real-life problems.However,simultaneous variations render neutrosophic sets unsuitable in specific circumstances.To enable the management of these sorts of issues,we combine the principle of multi-valued neutrosophic uncertain linguistic sets and complex fuzzy sets to develop the principle of multivalued complex neutrosophic uncertain linguistic sets.Multi-valued complex neutrosophic uncertain linguistic sets can contain grades of truth,abstinence,and falsity,and uncertain linguistic terms,which are expressed as complex numbers whose real and imaginary parts are limited to the unit interval.Some important Dombi laws are elaborated along with Bonferroni mean operators,which offer a flexible general structure with modifiable factors.Bonferroni means aggregation operators perform a significant role in conveying the magnitude level of options and characteristics.To determine relationships among any number of attributes,we develop multi-valued complex neutrosophic uncertain linguistic Dombi-normalized weighted Bonferroni mean operators and discuss their important properties with some special cases.By using these laws,we can deploy themulti-attribute decisionmaking(MADM)technique using the novel principle of multi-valued complex neutrosophic uncertain linguistic sets.To determine the power and flexibility of the elaborated approach,we resolve some numerical examples based on the proposed operator.Finally,the work is validated with the help of comparative analysis,a discussion of its advantages,and geometric expressions of the elaborated theories.