New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II

A special issue of Information (ISSN 2078-2489). This special issue belongs to the section "Information Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2024) | Viewed by 25694

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Guest Editor
Technical School of Industrial Engineering, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
Interests: multi-criteria decision making; maintenance; assessment systems; benchmarking; healthcare organisations
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) techniques have been used successfully in many real-world problems, including in the fields of logistics, finance, environment, diagnostics, technology selection, etc. However, due to the revolution driven by Industry 4.0, with new breakthroughs in data integration, devices, knowledge techniques, innovation, and management and technology, which underlines growing digitalization and cooperative coordination between productive units in the economy, there are new concepts which do not utilize MCDA, and which can be greatly advanced by including these techniques in decision processes. A similar revolution is happening in education, which is increasingly heading towards e-learning and web-based learning, as well as the management of industrial assets. 

All MCDA techniques are welcome, especially combined techniques, the inclusion of fuzzy sets, or group decision making. The application of minority techniques, or ones that improve upon those traditionally used, is also encouraged. 

The scope of this Special Issue covers applications in MCDA in new fields, subjects, or recent advances related to Industry 4.0, IoT, Big Data, e-education, etc., including subjects which have recently undergone substantial change and where MCDA techniques have not yet been included in the decision processes.

Dr. Maria Carmen Carnero
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • applications in health care organizations
  • applications in service industries
  • applications in industry 4.0
  • applications in circular economy
  • applications in new methodologies or technologies in education, e-learning and web-based learning
  • applications in asset management
  • applications in internet of things (IoT) and cloud
  • applications in iot data access and integration
  • applications in data security, privacy and general data protection regulation (GDPR)
  • applications in benchmarking
  • applications in artificial intelligence and machine learning
  • applications in big data
  • applications in security and health and safety at work
  • applications in ethical and moral conflicts related to industry 4.0
  • applications in defense and military
  • application in social engineering
  • applications in corporate social responsibilities
  • applications in risk and uncertainty management
  • applications in software and apps

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (17 papers)

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Research

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27 pages, 1792 KiB  
Article
Integrating Digitalization and Asset Health Index for Strategic Life Cycle Cost Analysis of Power Converters
by Vicente González-Prida, Antonio de la Fuente Carmona, Antonio J. Guillén López, Juan F. Gómez Fernández and Adolfo Crespo Márquez
Information 2024, 15(12), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15120749 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 401
Abstract
In the context of energy storage systems, optimizing the life cycle of power converters is crucial for reducing costs, making informed decisions, and ensuring sustainability. This study presents a comprehensive methodology for calculating the life cycle cost (LCC) of power converters, employing a [...] Read more.
In the context of energy storage systems, optimizing the life cycle of power converters is crucial for reducing costs, making informed decisions, and ensuring sustainability. This study presents a comprehensive methodology for calculating the life cycle cost (LCC) of power converters, employing a nine-step process that integrates digitalization, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and the Asset Health Index (AHI). The methodology adapts the Woodward model to provide a detailed cost analysis, encompassing the acquisition, operation, maintenance, and end-of-life phases. Our findings reveal significant insights into asset management, highlighting the importance of preventive and major maintenance in controlling failure rates and extending asset life. This study concludes that adopting sustainable business models and leveraging advanced technologies can enhance the reliability and maintainability of power converters, ultimately leading to more competitive and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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18 pages, 6156 KiB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration in Urban Decision-Making Processes: Convergence and Divergence with the Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA)
by Maria Rosaria Guarini, Francesco Sica and Alejandro Segura
Information 2024, 15(11), 678; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15110678 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 662
Abstract
The dynamics underpinning the urban landscape change are primarily driven by social, economic, and environmental issues. Owing to the population’s fluctuating needs, a new and dual perspective of urban space emerges. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) of a territory, or the system of technical [...] Read more.
The dynamics underpinning the urban landscape change are primarily driven by social, economic, and environmental issues. Owing to the population’s fluctuating needs, a new and dual perspective of urban space emerges. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) of a territory, or the system of technical diligence associated with the anthropocentric world, makes sense in the context of this temporal mismatch between territorial processes and utilitarian apparatus. This creates cerebral connections between several concurrent decision-making systems, leading to numerous perspectives of the same urban environment, often filtered by the people whose interests direct the information flow till the transformability. In contrast to the conventional methodologies of decision analysis, which are employed to facilitate convenient judgments between alternative options, innovative Artificial Intelligence tools are gaining traction as a means of more effectively evaluating and selecting fast-track solutions. The study’s goal is to investigate the cross-functional relationships between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and current decision-making support systems, which are increasingly being used to interpret urban growth and development from a multi-dimensional perspective, such as a multi-criteria one. Individuals in charge of administering and governing a territory will gain from artificial intelligence techniques because they will be able to test resilience and responsibility in decision-making circumstances while also responding fast and spontaneously to community requirements. The study evaluates current grading techniques and recommends areas for future upgrades via the lens of the potentials afforded by AI technology to the establishment of digitization pathways for technological advancements in the urban valuation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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24 pages, 5888 KiB  
Article
Fuzzy Logic Concepts, Developments and Implementation
by Reza Saatchi
Information 2024, 15(10), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15100656 - 19 Oct 2024
Viewed by 2811
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the field of fuzzy logic has evolved significantly, leading to the development of diverse techniques and applications. Fuzzy logic has been successfully combined with other artificial intelligence techniques such as artificial neural networks, deep learning, robotics, and genetic [...] Read more.
Over the past few decades, the field of fuzzy logic has evolved significantly, leading to the development of diverse techniques and applications. Fuzzy logic has been successfully combined with other artificial intelligence techniques such as artificial neural networks, deep learning, robotics, and genetic algorithms, creating powerful tools for complex problem-solving applications. This article provides an informative description of some of the main concepts in the field of fuzzy logic. These include the types and roles of membership functions, fuzzy inference system (FIS), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and fuzzy c-means clustering. The processes of fuzzification, defuzzification, implication, and determining fuzzy rules’ firing strengths are described. The article outlines some recent developments in the field of fuzzy logic, including its applications for decision support, industrial processes and control, data and telecommunication, and image and signal processing. Approaches to implementing fuzzy logic models are explained and, as an illustration, Matlab (version R2024b) is used to demonstrate implementation of a FIS. The prospects for future fuzzy logic developments are explored and example applications of hybrid fuzzy logic systems are provided. There remain extensive opportunities in further developing fuzzy logic-based techniques, including their further integration with various machine learning algorithms, and their adaptation into consumer products and industrial processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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14 pages, 2383 KiB  
Article
Participatory Renewal of Historic Districts Based on Bayesian Network
by Yang Yang, Yanliang Xia, Jilong Zhao and Chunlu Liu
Information 2024, 15(10), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15100628 - 11 Oct 2024
Viewed by 507
Abstract
Public participation is a requirement for contemporary urban governance in China, especially in the protection planning of historic districts. In the rapid development stage, many historic districts have lost their functional positioning in cities and are gradually disappearing due to outdated facilities and [...] Read more.
Public participation is a requirement for contemporary urban governance in China, especially in the protection planning of historic districts. In the rapid development stage, many historic districts have lost their functional positioning in cities and are gradually disappearing due to outdated facilities and services. Previous studies have pointed out that protecting historic and cultural districts requires the joint efforts of multiple stakeholders. Integrating multiple stakeholders’ interests and needs is a complex problem in related research fields and planning practices. The traditional forms of public participation, such as questionnaire surveys, interviews, and symposiums, have the problem of high time costs for collection and analysis. At the same time, the information has been translated multiple times, making it challenging to avoid misunderstandings and errors. Therefore, there is an urgent need for an alternative platform for public participation in the renewal of China’s historic districts. Taking Houzaimen Street in Jinan City as an example, this paper uses the Bayesian network to establish a spatial evaluation model of historic districts. Our aims are to translate natural semantics into the design semantics of the architectural field, accurately locate the spatial problems of the historic district, and provide targeted improvement measures. In this paper, a public feedback channel for Houzaimen Street is established to provide a reference for the renewal of the historic district and the advancement of public participation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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20 pages, 312 KiB  
Article
Green Supplier Selection Using Advanced Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Tools
by Justas Streimikis, Dalia Štreimikienė, Ahmad Bathaei and Bahador Bahramimianrood
Information 2024, 15(9), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15090548 - 6 Sep 2024
Viewed by 765
Abstract
In today’s competitive and environmentally conscious industries, the ability of organizations to adapt and respond is more important than ever. This study focuses on overcoming the obstacles faced by the Iranian automobile sector by highlighting the significance of incorporating green supply chain techniques. [...] Read more.
In today’s competitive and environmentally conscious industries, the ability of organizations to adapt and respond is more important than ever. This study focuses on overcoming the obstacles faced by the Iranian automobile sector by highlighting the significance of incorporating green supply chain techniques. The research intends to integrate organizational operations with environmental sustainability goals by utilizing a MULTIMOORA strategy for supplier selection. The Iranian automobile sector, facing substantial environmental challenges, requires a strategy framework for selecting environmentally friendly suppliers in order to sustain competitiveness and fulfill ecological obligations. The study develops a supplier selection model based on extensive research and expert knowledge. The Delphi and MULTIMOORA techniques are employed to assess and prioritize suppliers according to green criteria, assuring conformity with environmental goals. Data are collected by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature and engaging in conversations with industry experts in order to acquire information for the construction of the model. The results emphasize the crucial significance of trust-based relationships with suppliers, rigorous compliance with quality standards in new product development, and substantial investment in employee training and development. Sector analysts view these characteristics as crucial for promoting sustainability and gaining a competitive advantage in the Iranian vehicle sector. This study provides firms with strategic instruments to effectively negotiate the intricacies of green supply chain management, with a particular focus on the need for adopting sustainable practices while selecting suppliers in the dynamic and competitive context of the Iranian automobile industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
23 pages, 835 KiB  
Article
On Ordinal Information-Based Weighting Methods and Comparison Analyses
by Zhor Chergui and Antonio Jiménez-Martín
Information 2024, 15(9), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15090527 - 1 Sep 2024
Viewed by 963
Abstract
In this paper, we focus on weighting methods within multi-attribute utility/value theory (MAUT/MAVT). In these methods, the decision maker (DM) provides ordinal information about the relative importance of criteria, but also additional information concerning the strength of the differences between the ranked criteria, [...] Read more.
In this paper, we focus on weighting methods within multi-attribute utility/value theory (MAUT/MAVT). In these methods, the decision maker (DM) provides ordinal information about the relative importance of criteria, but also additional information concerning the strength of the differences between the ranked criteria, which can be expressed in different forms, including precise/imprecise cardinal information, ratio-based methods, a ranking of differences, a semantic scale, or preference statements. Although many comparison analyses of weighting methods based on ordinal information have been carried out in the literature, these analyses do not cover all of the available methods, and it is not possible to identify the best one depending on the information provided by the DM. We review the analyses comparing the performance of these weighting methods based on empirical and simulated data using different quality measures. The aim is to identify weighting methods that could be recommended for use in each situation (depending on the available information) or the missing comparison analyses that should be carried out to arrive at a recommendation. We conclude that in the case of additional information in the form of a semantic scale, the cardinal sum reciprocal method can definitively be recommended. However, when only ordinal information is provided by the DM and in cases where additional information is provided in the form of precise/imprecise cardinal information or a ranking of differences, although there are some outstanding methods, further comparison analysis should be carried out to recommend a weighting method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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21 pages, 6090 KiB  
Article
Towards an Urban Planning Scenario Model System—A Tool for Exploring Urban Uncertainty: A Case Study of Diaozhen, China
by Xuefei Li, Liang Zhao, Yang Yang, Danni Liu, Baizhen Li and Chunlu Liu
Information 2024, 15(9), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15090514 - 23 Aug 2024
Viewed by 642
Abstract
The ‘Urban Interaction’ project aims to develop an urban planning model system at the scale of towns or small cities consisting of three modules: growth forecast, land-use decision, and evaluation. This paper presents the framework of the model system to identify and discuss [...] Read more.
The ‘Urban Interaction’ project aims to develop an urban planning model system at the scale of towns or small cities consisting of three modules: growth forecast, land-use decision, and evaluation. This paper presents the framework of the model system to identify and discuss the assumptions and theoretical basis of the model system. The model system will be driven by scenario planning theory and sustainable urban development principles. It will export land-use planning based on selected urban development scenarios and urban planning theories. This paper takes Diao Town in Jinan as an example. Applying GIS spatial analysis and hierarchical analysis, this paper determines the suitability of land use and the weights of different influencing factors, combined with the land-use conflict identification model, for land-use decision-making. Finally, the assessment module verifies whether the planning scheme complies with laws and regulations to achieve an active, reactive response to uncertainty. The paper discusses the ‘uncertainty’ of urban planning and proposes a creative, flexible, and timely planning platform that allows planners and other participants to model and visualize their scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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10 pages, 594 KiB  
Article
Performance Management Decision-Making Model: Case Study on Foreign Language Learning Curriculums
by Kuen-Suan Chen, Chun-Min Yu, Chun-Hung Yu and Yen-Po Chen
Information 2024, 15(8), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15080481 - 14 Aug 2024
Viewed by 723
Abstract
Foreign language learning courses can be regarded as a service operation system, and a complete foreign language learning course performance evaluation model can help improve the effectiveness of student learning. The performance evaluation matrix (PEM) is an excellent tool for evaluation and resource [...] Read more.
Foreign language learning courses can be regarded as a service operation system, and a complete foreign language learning course performance evaluation model can help improve the effectiveness of student learning. The performance evaluation matrix (PEM) is an excellent tool for evaluation and resource management decision making, and the administrator uses the satisfaction and the importance indices to establish evaluation coordinate points based on the rules of statistical testing. The coordinate points of all service items are plotted into the PEM to grasp the full picture and to make decisions on what to improve or to consider resource transfers so as to elevate the overall satisfaction of the entire service. However, plotting all the coordinate points on the PEM can only be performed by programming, which will lead to limitations in practice. Therefore, instead of the above evaluation rules, this article uses the confidence intervals of decision-making indicators to form a validity evaluation table, to decide which teaching service items should be improved, maintained, or transferred to improve the satisfaction of the entire service system. This form of performance evaluation can be completed using any commonly used word-processing software, so it is easy to apply and promote. Finally, this article provides an applied example to illustrate the proposed method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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10 pages, 303 KiB  
Article
New Approach for Investigating a Class of Multi-Cost Interval-Valued Extremization Problems
by Savin Treanţă and Emine Özgül
Information 2024, 15(8), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15080455 - 1 Aug 2024
Viewed by 853
Abstract
This study concentrates on a new approach for solving a class of multi-cost convex interval-valued extremization problems. Namely, we apply the weighting technique to find efficient solutions to these problems, defined in terms of LU-efficiency and weak LU-efficiency. Thus, [...] Read more.
This study concentrates on a new approach for solving a class of multi-cost convex interval-valued extremization problems. Namely, we apply the weighting technique to find efficient solutions to these problems, defined in terms of LU-efficiency and weak LU-efficiency. Thus, an auxiliary weighting extremization problem related to the considered multi-cost interval-valued extremization problem is introduced. Under appropriate convexity hypotheses, an equivalence is established between the (weakly) LU-efficient solution of the multi-cost interval-valued extremization problem and the optimal solution of the auxiliary weighting extremization problem. Also, a numerical example is formulated to support the theoretical developments derived in the paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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22 pages, 931 KiB  
Article
A Hybrid MCDM Approach Using the BWM and the TOPSIS for a Financial Performance-Based Evaluation of Saudi Stocks
by Abdulrahman T. Alsanousi, Ammar Y. Alqahtani, Anas A. Makki and Majed A. Baghdadi
Information 2024, 15(5), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/info15050258 - 2 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2029
Abstract
This study presents a hybrid multicriteria decision-making approach for evaluating stocks in the Saudi Stock Market. The objective is to provide investors and stakeholders with a robust evaluation methodology to inform their investment decisions. With a market value of USD 2.89 trillion dollars [...] Read more.
This study presents a hybrid multicriteria decision-making approach for evaluating stocks in the Saudi Stock Market. The objective is to provide investors and stakeholders with a robust evaluation methodology to inform their investment decisions. With a market value of USD 2.89 trillion dollars in September 2022, the Saudi Stock Market is of significant importance for the country’s economy. However, navigating the complexities of stock market performance poses investment challenges. This study employs the best–worst method and the technique for order preference by similarity to identify an ideal solution to address these challenges. Utilizing data from the Saudi Stock Market (Tadawul), this study evaluates stock performance based on financial criteria, including return on equity, return on assets, net profit margin, and asset turnover. The findings reveal valuable insights, particularly in the banking sector, which exhibited the highest net profit margin ratios among sectors. The hybrid multicriteria decision-making-based approach enhances investment decisions. This research provides a foundation for future investigations, facilitating a deeper exploration and analysis of additional aspects of the Saudi Stock Market’s performance. The developed methodology and findings have implications for investors and stakeholders, aiding their investment decisions and maximizing returns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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14 pages, 1219 KiB  
Article
Multi-Criteria Decision-Making in Public Procurement: An Empirical Study of Contractor Selection for Landslide Rehabilitation
by Anđelka Štilić, Adis Puška, Darko Božanić and Duško Tešić
Information 2023, 14(7), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14070357 - 24 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1540
Abstract
When carrying out construction work, identifying the best contractor is a critical component of the project life cycle in the construction industry. The investor must use effective and efficient strategies to create a competitive bidding environment in public projects. The research presented in [...] Read more.
When carrying out construction work, identifying the best contractor is a critical component of the project life cycle in the construction industry. The investor must use effective and efficient strategies to create a competitive bidding environment in public projects. The research presented in this paper was conducted to demonstrate the competitive nature of public procurements, where contractors compete to present the best bid and win the contract. To award the contract, the best offer must be selected. Based on different strategies and multi-criteria decision-making approaches this study proposes a method for identifying the most suitable strategy out of eight bidding strategies on four different lots, resulting in the most suitable one for landslide rehabilitation in the Brčko district. The results reveal the optimal approach to follow to minimize time and financial losses in the case of landslide rehabilitation during periods of market instability. Such research findings validate the efficiency of the bidding strategies-based decision-making support. The proposed method allows for compromise on both the completion date and the lowest bid made by the winning contractor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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21 pages, 4782 KiB  
Article
Conflict Resolution as a Combinatorial Optimization Problem
by Ekaterina Antipova and Sergey Rashkovskiy
Information 2023, 14(5), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14050264 - 29 Apr 2023
Viewed by 1446
Abstract
Within the framework of the mathematical theory of conflicts, we consider a multi-criterial conflict situation using the example of a child–parent conflict. A general method for constructing a conflict diagram is described and possible ways of the conflicting parties influencing each other in [...] Read more.
Within the framework of the mathematical theory of conflicts, we consider a multi-criterial conflict situation using the example of a child–parent conflict. A general method for constructing a conflict diagram is described and possible ways of the conflicting parties influencing each other in this conflict situation are discussed. We introduce criteria that characterize the intensity of conflicts and show that the conflict resolution problem can be reduced to a multi-criterial combinatorial optimization problem. As a method for solving this problem, we consider the Monte Carlo method (Metropolis algorithm). The performed parametric calculations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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22 pages, 3457 KiB  
Article
Application of Scenario Forecasting Methods and Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Modeling in Substantiation of Urban Area Development Strategies
by Natalia Sadovnikova, Oksana Savina, Danila Parygin, Alexey Churakov and Alexey Shuklin
Information 2023, 14(4), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14040241 - 14 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1780
Abstract
The existing approaches to supporting the tasks of managing the urban areas development are aimed at choosing an alternative from a set of ready-made solutions. Little attention is paid to the procedure for the formation and analysis of acceptable options for the use [...] Read more.
The existing approaches to supporting the tasks of managing the urban areas development are aimed at choosing an alternative from a set of ready-made solutions. Little attention is paid to the procedure for the formation and analysis of acceptable options for the use of territories. The study's purpose is to understand how various factors affect the efficiency of using the city’s territory. In addition, we are trying to use this understanding to assess the possible consequences of the implementation of management decisions on the territory transformation. We use the method of structuring knowledge about the study area, taking into account the influence of the external environment. This method implements the significant factors list formation and assessment of their impact on development. Fuzzy cognitive modeling was used to build scenarios for identifying contradictions in achieving sustainable development goals. The scenario modeling results are necessary for the formation of the alternative. Alternatives are evaluated on the basis of fuzzy multi-criteria optimization. The integration of methods makes it possible to increase the objectivity of the analysis of strategies for urban areas development. The Belman-Zadeh method is used to analyze the selected options based on criteria that determine the feasibility and effectiveness of each project. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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18 pages, 6736 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Readability of Electrical Network Complex Emergency Modes Provided by Data Compression Methods
by Aleksandr Kulikov, Pavel Ilyushin and Anton Loskutov
Information 2023, 14(4), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14040230 - 8 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1484
Abstract
Current microprocessor-based relay protection and automation (RPA) devices supported by IEC 61850 provide access to a large amount of information on the protected or controlled electric power facility in real time. The issue of using such information (Big Data) in order to improve [...] Read more.
Current microprocessor-based relay protection and automation (RPA) devices supported by IEC 61850 provide access to a large amount of information on the protected or controlled electric power facility in real time. The issue of using such information (Big Data) in order to improve the parameters of technical modification of intelligent electronic devices at digital substations remains unaddressed. Prerequisites arise for designing modern power systems with relay protection devices of a new generation based on new information algorithms. In particular, it is expedient to develop multi-parameter protections using more than one information parameter: modules of current, voltage, derivatives thereof, phase angles, active and reactive resistances, etc. An information approach based on multiple modeling and statistical processing of modeling results is also promising. This article explores the issues of enhanced sensitivity of multi-parameter relay protection using long-range redundancy protection as an example. Transition to “generalized features” is proposed in order to simplify multi-parameter protection and reduction in the computational load on the RPA device. Out of a large number of analyzed indicators (currents, voltages, their derivatives, resistances, increments of currents, angles between current and voltage, etc.), we specify the most informative by using the method of “data compression”. The transition to generalized features simplifies the parameterization of settings, and the process of making a decision by the relay protection device is reduced to obtaining a generalized feature and comparing it with a dimensionless setting in relative terms. For the formation of generalized information features, two mathematical methods are studied: the method of principal components and Fisher’s linear discriminant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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22 pages, 2290 KiB  
Article
Elicitation of Key Factors to Support Information Technology Outsourcing in Technological Innovation Hubs: Applying a Multicriteria Analytical Framework
by Thalles André Cabral Silva, Victor Diogho Heuer de Carvalho, Robério José Rogério dos Santos, Thiago Poleto and Thyago Celso Cavalcante Nepomuceno
Information 2023, 14(3), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14030169 - 7 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1947
Abstract
This work presents an analytical framework for eliciting key factors for successful relationships between parties in information technology outsourcing (ITO) projects. The proposal was based on a multicriteria analysis to identify key factors within the literature that were essential for the success of [...] Read more.
This work presents an analytical framework for eliciting key factors for successful relationships between parties in information technology outsourcing (ITO) projects. The proposal was based on a multicriteria analysis to identify key factors within the literature that were essential for the success of projects involving IT outsourcing. Using the multicriteria analysis method PROMETHEE II, the most important key factors were ranked according to the judgment of the managers of the companies in the innovation ecosystem of Alagoas, Brazil. The study was based on thirty-one judgment criteria that, in this case, were formed by the interviewed managers and twenty-one alternatives that were the key factors identified in the literature. This work contributes to composing a reference for the analysis of ITO projects and information governance, informing which factors should be prioritized according to the desired objective of the manager within the project. From the local perspective, the survey pointed to “quality production” as the most important factor, followed by “contract”, “top management engagement”, “risk management”, and “communication” as the most relevant factors for IT outsourcing success in the technological innovation hubs of Alagoas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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13 pages, 5482 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Social Value Orientation on Theta to Alpha Ratio in Resource Allocation Games
by Dor Mizrahi, Inon Zuckerman and Ilan Laufer
Information 2023, 14(3), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14030146 - 23 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1592
Abstract
The social value orientation (SVO) has a profound effect on the strategic decision making in economic choices and the ability to succeed in coordination games. With that in mind, in this study we wanted to examine an electrophysiological measure elicited in different resource [...] Read more.
The social value orientation (SVO) has a profound effect on the strategic decision making in economic choices and the ability to succeed in coordination games. With that in mind, in this study we wanted to examine an electrophysiological measure elicited in different resource allocation problems that affect the preferences of the player. We recorded EEG from participants while they were engaged in different allocation problems varying in the magnitude of reward and the difference size between alternative choices. We found that the theta to alpha ratio (TAR) can differentiate between individualistic and prosocial players. Specifically, individualistic players were more sensitive to the magnitude of the overall payoff (reflected by the radius size) as well as to the difference between two reward alternatives in the resource allocation task. These two variables, reward magnitude, and the difference between payoff alternatives, have significantly differentiated between the TAR levels of prosocials and proselfs (p < 0.001). For extreme differences (small or large), TAR was higher in comparison to medium sized differences. Our results demonstrated that in resource allocation games the TAR can be predicted based on the parameters of the task and the SVO category of the player (prosocial or individualistic). Specifically, an interaction was found between the attractiveness of the reward (radius) as well as the conflict between alternatives (Δ∅) and the SVO of the player at a significance level of p < 0.0001. These results highlight the importance of the SVO construct in economic decision choices varying in both reward magnitude and the proximity between alternative choices. Suggestions for future studies are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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Review

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23 pages, 5642 KiB  
Review
Healthcare Trust Evolution with Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bibliometric Analysis
by Pummy Dhiman, Anupam Bonkra, Amandeep Kaur, Yonis Gulzar, Yasir Hamid, Mohammad Shuaib Mir, Arjumand Bano Soomro and Osman Elwasila
Information 2023, 14(10), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/info14100541 - 3 Oct 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3007
Abstract
Recent developments in IoT, big data, fog and edge networks, and AI technologies have had a profound impact on a number of industries, including medical. The use of AI for therapeutic purposes has been hampered by its inexplicability. Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), a [...] Read more.
Recent developments in IoT, big data, fog and edge networks, and AI technologies have had a profound impact on a number of industries, including medical. The use of AI for therapeutic purposes has been hampered by its inexplicability. Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), a revolutionary movement, has arisen to solve this constraint. By using decision-making and prediction outputs, XAI seeks to improve the explicability of standard AI models. In this study, we examined global developments in empirical XAI research in the medical field. The bibliometric analysis tools VOSviewer and Biblioshiny were used to examine 171 open access publications from the Scopus database (2019–2022). Our findings point to several prospects for growth in this area, notably in areas of medicine like diagnostic imaging. With 109 research articles using XAI for healthcare classification, prediction, and diagnosis, the USA leads the world in research output. With 88 citations, IEEE Access has the greatest number of publications of all the journals. Our extensive survey covers a range of XAI applications in healthcare, such as diagnosis, therapy, prevention, and palliation, and offers helpful insights for researchers who are interested in this field. This report provides a direction for future healthcare industry research endeavors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Applications in Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis II)
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