Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models

A special issue of Symmetry (ISSN 2073-8994). This special issue belongs to the section "Computer".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2021) | Viewed by 69355

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Special Issue Editors

Research Institute of Sustainable Construction, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
Interests: operations research; optimization and decision analysis; multicriteria decision making; multiattribute decision making (MADM); decision support systems; civil engineering; energy; sustainable development; fuzzy sets theory; fuzzy multicriteria decision making; sustainability; management; game theory and economical computing knowledge management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of Construction Management and Real Estate, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
Interests: multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM); multiattribute decision making (MADM); operations research; decision support systems; multiple-criteria optimization in construction technology and management; decision making under uncertainty; fuzzy sets theory; civil engineering; sustainable development; sustainable construction; investments; knowledge management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Laboratory of Operations Research, Institute of Sustainable Construction, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
Interests: operations research; optimization and decision analysis; multicriteria decision making; MCDM; multiple-criteria optimization; multiattribute decision making (MADM); multiobjective optimization (MODM); approximations; mathematics for decision making; decision support systems; evaluation sustainable development; civil engineering; management; knowledge management; game theory and economical computing; finance engineering; algorithms and software engineering; energy; fuzzy set theory; negotiations; the consensus in groups
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear colleagues,

This Special Issue is intended to cover symmetric and asymmetric data occurring in real-life problems. Symmetry and structural regularity are essential concepts in many natural and man-made objects and play a crucial role in problem solutions. While the complexity and risks inherent in problem solution models, along with different indicators of success and failure, may contribute to the difficulties in their performance evaluation, multiple solutions generally exist. The existence of data asymmetry also causes difficulties when achieving an optimal solution. Therefore, various solution models can be proposed as an integrated tool to find a balance between components of sustainable global development, i.e., to find a symmetry axe with respect to goals, risks, and constraints to cope with complicated problems. We invite authors to submit their theoretical or experimental research presenting engineering and other problem solution models dealing with symmetry and asymmetry of different types of data.

Prof. Dr. Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas
Prof. Dr. Jurgita Antuchevičienė
Prof. Dr. Zenonas Turskis
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Symmetry is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Symmetry and asymmetry particularities in engineering modelling
  • Data mining and integration of symmetric and asymmetric information
  • Visualization of symmetric and asymmetric data
  • Multiple-criteria problem solution models with certainly and not fully certainly determined data
  • Solution models based on sustainability
  • Symmetric and asymmetric risks
  • Hybrid problem solution models Interval-valued fuzzy sets
  • Intuitionistic fuzzy sets
  • Neutrosophic sets
  • Grey systems
  • Rough sets Computer-aided problem solution

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Editorial

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10 pages, 557 KiB  
Editorial
Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models
by Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Jurgita Antucheviciene and Zenonas Turskis
Symmetry 2021, 13(6), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym13061045 - 09 Jun 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2521
Abstract
This Special Issue covers symmetric and asymmetric data that occur in real-life problems. We invited authors to submit their theoretical or experimental research to present engineering and economic problem solution models that deal with symmetry or asymmetry of different data types. The Special [...] Read more.
This Special Issue covers symmetric and asymmetric data that occur in real-life problems. We invited authors to submit their theoretical or experimental research to present engineering and economic problem solution models that deal with symmetry or asymmetry of different data types. The Special Issue gained interest in the research community and received many submissions. After rigorous scientific evaluation by editors and reviewers, seventeen papers were accepted and published. The authors proposed different solution models, mainly covering uncertain data in multi-criteria decision-making problems as complex tools to balance the symmetry between goals, risks, and constraints to cope with the complicated problems in engineering or management. Therefore, we invite researchers interested in the topics to read the papers provided in the Special Issue. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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Research

Jump to: Editorial

24 pages, 5726 KiB  
Article
Land Price Forecasting Research by Macro and Micro Factors and Real Estate Market Utilization Plan Research by Landscape Factors: Big Data Analysis Approach
by Sang-Hyang Lee, Jae-Hwan Kim and Jun-Ho Huh
Symmetry 2021, 13(4), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym13040616 - 07 Apr 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6356
Abstract
In real estate, there are various variables for the forecasting of future land prices, in addition to the macro and micro perspectives used in the current research. Examples of such variables are the economic growth rate, unemployment rate, regional development and important locations, [...] Read more.
In real estate, there are various variables for the forecasting of future land prices, in addition to the macro and micro perspectives used in the current research. Examples of such variables are the economic growth rate, unemployment rate, regional development and important locations, and transportation. Therefore, in this paper, data on real estate and national price fluctuation rates were used to predict the ways in which future land prices will fluctuate, and macro and micro perspective variables were actively utilized in order to conduct land analysis based on Big Data analysis. We sought to understand what kinds of variables directly affect the fluctuation of the land, and to use this for future land price analysis. In addition to the two variables mentioned above, the factor of the landscape was also confirmed to be closely related to the real estate market. Therefore, in order to check the correlation between the landscape and the real estate market, we will examine the factors which change the land price in the landscape district, and then discuss how the landscape and real estate can interact. As a result, re-explaining the previous contents, the future land price is predicted by actively utilizing macro and micro variables in real estate land price prediction. Through this method, we want to increase the accuracy of the real estate market, which is difficult to predict, and we hope that it will be useful in the real estate market in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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25 pages, 1086 KiB  
Article
Comparative Assessment of the Stability of AHP and FAHP Methods
by Irina Vinogradova-Zinkevič, Valentinas Podvezko and Edmundas Kazimeras Zavadskas
Symmetry 2021, 13(3), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym13030479 - 15 Mar 2021
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3759
Abstract
Mathematical models describing physical, technical, economic, and other processes can be used to analyze these processes and predict their results, providing that these models are stable and their results are stable relative to the model parameters used. Small changes in the values of [...] Read more.
Mathematical models describing physical, technical, economic, and other processes can be used to analyze these processes and predict their results, providing that these models are stable and their results are stable relative to the model parameters used. Small changes in the values of the model parameters correspond to small changes in the results. Multicriteria decision-making models need to check the results’ stability against the models’ main components: the values of the criteria weights and the elements of the decision matrix. In this article, we study the stability of models associated with the calculation of criteria weights. For the analysis, the most commonly used models are taken—the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method and the fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method, in which fuzzy numbers are used under conditions of data uncertainty. Both mathematically well-based methods verify the consistency of the expert evaluations. The method of statistical simulation (Monte Carlo) is the basis for studying the results’ stability. The study checks the experts’ provided evaluations’ consistency, calculates the criteria weights, and evaluates their relative errors after a slight change in the estimates of the pairwise comparisons of the criteria provided by the experts. The matrix of comparisons of the FAHP method is constructed based on the entire expert group’s assessments. It estimates the boundaries of variance in the fuzzy criteria weights. This paper estimates the stability of the criteria’ weights associated with the mathematical methods themselves and the experts’ estimates. The results are useful to study the stability of specific MCDM methods when ranking alternatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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26 pages, 21106 KiB  
Article
Qualitative Rating of Lossy Compression for Aerial Imagery by Neutrosophic WASPAS Method
by Romualdas Bausys and Giruta Kazakeviciute-Januskeviciene
Symmetry 2021, 13(2), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym13020273 - 05 Feb 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1866
Abstract
The monitoring and management of consistently changing landscape patterns are accomplished through a large amount of remote sensing data using satellite images and aerial photography that requires lossy compression for effective storage and transmission. Lossy compression brings the necessity to evaluate the image [...] Read more.
The monitoring and management of consistently changing landscape patterns are accomplished through a large amount of remote sensing data using satellite images and aerial photography that requires lossy compression for effective storage and transmission. Lossy compression brings the necessity to evaluate the image quality to preserve the important and detailed visual features of the data. We proposed and verified a weighted combination of qualitative parameters for the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework to evaluate the quality of the compressed aerial images. The aerial imagery of different contents and resolutions was tested using the transform-based lossy compression algorithms. We formulated an MCDM problem dedicated to the rating of lossy compression algorithms, governed by the set of qualitative parameters of the images and visually acceptable lossy compression ratios. We performed the lossy compression algorithms’ ranking with different compression ratios by their suitability for the aerial images using the neutrosophic weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) method. The novelty of our methodology is the use of a weighted combination of different qualitative parameters for lossy compression estimation to get a more precise evaluation of the effect of lossy compression on the image content. Our methodology includes means of solving different subtasks, either by altering the weights or the set of aspects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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21 pages, 10706 KiB  
Article
Global Sensitivity Analysis of Quantiles: New Importance Measure Based on Superquantiles and Subquantiles
by Zdeněk Kala
Symmetry 2021, 13(2), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym13020263 - 04 Feb 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5955
Abstract
The article introduces quantile deviation l as a new sensitivity measure based on the difference between superquantile and subquantile. New global sensitivity indices based on the square of l are presented. The proposed sensitivity indices are compared with quantile-oriented sensitivity indices subordinated to [...] Read more.
The article introduces quantile deviation l as a new sensitivity measure based on the difference between superquantile and subquantile. New global sensitivity indices based on the square of l are presented. The proposed sensitivity indices are compared with quantile-oriented sensitivity indices subordinated to contrasts and classical Sobol sensitivity indices. The comparison is performed in a case study using a non-linear mathematical function, the output of which represents the elastic resistance of a slender steel member under compression. The steel member has random imperfections that reduce its load-carrying capacity. The member length is a deterministic parameter that significantly changes the sensitivity of the output resistance to the random effects of input imperfections. The comparison of the results of three types of global sensitivity analyses shows the rationality of the new quantile-oriented sensitivity indices, which have good properties similar to classical Sobol indices. Sensitivity indices subordinated to contrasts are the least comprehensible because they exhibit the strongest interaction effects between inputs. However, using total indices, all three types of sensitivity analyses lead to approximately the same conclusions. The similarity of the results of two quantile-oriented and Sobol sensitivity analysis confirms that Sobol sensitivity analysis is empathetic to the structural reliability and that the variance is one of the important characteristics significantly influencing the low quantile of resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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16 pages, 2495 KiB  
Article
Improving the Results of the Earned Value Management Technique Using Artificial Neural Networks in Construction Projects
by Amirhossein Balali, Alireza Valipour, Jurgita Antucheviciene and Jonas Šaparauskas
Symmetry 2020, 12(10), 1745; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12101745 - 21 Oct 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4193
Abstract
The cost, time and scope of a construction project are key parameters for its success. Thus, predicting these indices is indispensable. Correct and accurate prediction of cost throughout the progress of a project gives project managers the chance to identify projects that need [...] Read more.
The cost, time and scope of a construction project are key parameters for its success. Thus, predicting these indices is indispensable. Correct and accurate prediction of cost throughout the progress of a project gives project managers the chance to identify projects that need revision in their schedules in order to result in the maximum benefit. The aim of this study is to minimize the shortcomings of the Earned Value Management (EVM) method using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and multiple regression analysis in order to predict project cost indices more precisely. A total of 50 road construction projects in Fars Province, Iran, were selected for analysis in this research. An ANN model was used to predict the projects’ cost performance indices, thereby creating a more accurate symmetry between the predicted and actual cost by considering factors that influence project success. The input data of the ANN model were analysed in MATLAB software. A multiple regression model was also used as another analytical tool to validate the outcome of the ANN. The results showed that the ANN model resulted in a lower Mean Squared Error (MSE) and a greater correlation coefficient than both the traditional EVM model and the multiple regression model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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16 pages, 2914 KiB  
Article
Adaptation of a Cost Overrun Risk Prediction Model to the Type of Construction Facility
by Edyta Plebankiewicz and Damian Wieczorek
Symmetry 2020, 12(10), 1739; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12101739 - 20 Oct 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2281
Abstract
To assess the risk of project cost overrun, it is necessary to consider large amounts of symmetric and asymmetric data. This paper proposes a cost overrun risk prediction model, the structure of which is based on the fuzzy inference model of Mamdani. The [...] Read more.
To assess the risk of project cost overrun, it is necessary to consider large amounts of symmetric and asymmetric data. This paper proposes a cost overrun risk prediction model, the structure of which is based on the fuzzy inference model of Mamdani. The model consists of numerous inputs and one output (multi-input-single-output (MISO)), based on processes running consecutively in three blocks (the fuzzy block, the interference block, and the block of sharpening the representative output value). The input variables of the model include the share of element costs in the building costs (SE), predicted changes in the number of works (WC), and expected changes in the unit price (PC). For the input variable SE, it is proposed to adjust the fuzzy set shapes to the type of building object. Single-family residential buildings, multi-family residential buildings, office buildings, highways, expressways, and sports fields were analyzed. The initial variable is the value of the risk of exceeding the costs of a given element of a construction investment project (R). In all, 27 rules were assumed in the interference block. Considering the possibility of applying sharpening methods in the cost overrun risk prediction model, the following defuzzification methods were investigated: the first of maxima, middle of maxima, and last of maxima method, the center of gravity method, and the bisector area method. Considering the advantages and disadvantages, the authors assumed that the correct and basic defuzzification method in the cost overrun risk prediction model was the center of gravity method. In order to check the correctness of the assumption made at the stage of designing the rule database, result diagrams were generated for the relationships between the variable (R) and the input variables of individual types of buildings. The results obtained confirm the correctness of the assumed assumptions and allow to consider the input variable (SE), adjusted individually to the model for each type of construction object, as crucial in the context of the impact on the output value of the output variable (R). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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22 pages, 9092 KiB  
Article
From Probabilistic to Quantile-Oriented Sensitivity Analysis: New Indices of Design Quantiles
by Zdeněk Kala
Symmetry 2020, 12(10), 1720; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12101720 - 19 Oct 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 7552
Abstract
In structural reliability analysis, sensitivity analysis (SA) can be used to measure how an input variable influences the failure probability Pf of a structure. Although the reliability is usually expressed via Pf, Eurocode building design standards assess the reliability using [...] Read more.
In structural reliability analysis, sensitivity analysis (SA) can be used to measure how an input variable influences the failure probability Pf of a structure. Although the reliability is usually expressed via Pf, Eurocode building design standards assess the reliability using design quantiles of resistance and load. The presented case study showed that quantile-oriented SA can provide the same sensitivity ranking as Pf-oriented SA or local SA based on Pf derivatives. The first two SAs are global, so the input variables are ranked based on total sensitivity indices subordinated to contrasts. The presented studies were performed for Pf ranging from 9.35 × 10−8 to 1–1.51 × 10−8. The use of quantile-oriented global SA can be significant in engineering tasks, especially for very small Pf. The proposed concept provided an opportunity to go much further. Left-right symmetry of contrast functions and sensitivity indices were observed. The article presents a new view of contrasts associated with quantiles as the distance between the average value of the population before and after the quantile. This distance has symmetric hyperbola asymptotes for small and large quantiles of any probability distribution. Following this idea, new quantile-oriented sensitivity indices based on measuring the distance between a quantile and the average value of the model output are formulated in this article. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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20 pages, 3125 KiB  
Article
Appropriate Feature Set and Window Parameters Selection for Efficient Motion Intent Characterization towards Intelligently Smart EMG-PR System
by Mojisola Grace Asogbon, Oluwarotimi Williams Samuel, Yanbing Jiang, Lin Wang, Yanjuan Geng, Arun Kumar Sangaiah, Shixiong Chen, Peng Fang and Guanglin Li
Symmetry 2020, 12(10), 1710; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12101710 - 16 Oct 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2365
Abstract
The constantly rising number of limb stroke survivors and amputees has motivated the development of intelligent prosthetic/rehabilitation devices for their arm function restoration. The device often integrates a pattern recognition (PR) algorithm that decodes amputees’ limb movement intent from electromyogram (EMG) signals, characterized [...] Read more.
The constantly rising number of limb stroke survivors and amputees has motivated the development of intelligent prosthetic/rehabilitation devices for their arm function restoration. The device often integrates a pattern recognition (PR) algorithm that decodes amputees’ limb movement intent from electromyogram (EMG) signals, characterized by neural information and symmetric distribution. However, the control performance of the prostheses mostly rely on the interrelations among multiple dynamic factors of feature set, windowing parameters, and signal conditioning that have rarely been jointly investigated to date. This study systematically investigated the interaction effects of these dynamic factors on the performance of EMG-PR system towards constructing optimal parameters for accurately robust movement intent decoding in the context of prosthetic control. In this regard, the interaction effects of various features across window lengths (50 ms~300 ms), increments (50 ms~125 ms), robustness to external interferences and sensor channels (2 ch~6 ch), were examined using EMG signals obtained from twelve subjects through a symmetrical movement elicitation protocol. Compared to single features, multiple features consistently achieved minimum decoding error below 10% across optimal windowing parameters of 250 ms/100 ms. Also, the multiple features showed high robustness to additive noise with obvious trade-offs between accuracy and computation time. Consequently, our findings may provide proper insight for appropriate parameter selection in the context of robust PR-based control strategy for intelligent rehabilitation device. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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20 pages, 2210 KiB  
Article
VASMA Weighting: Survey-Based Criteria Weighting Methodology that Combines ENTROPY and WASPAS-SVNS to Reflect the Psychometric Features of the VAS Scales
by Ingrida Lescauskiene, Romualdas Bausys, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas and Birute Juodagalviene
Symmetry 2020, 12(10), 1641; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12101641 - 06 Oct 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2648
Abstract
Data symmetry and asymmetry might cause difficulties in various areas including criteria weighting approaches. Preference elicitation is an integral part of the multicriteria decision-making process. Weighting approaches differ in terms of accuracy, ease of use, complexity, and theoretical foundations. When the opinions of [...] Read more.
Data symmetry and asymmetry might cause difficulties in various areas including criteria weighting approaches. Preference elicitation is an integral part of the multicriteria decision-making process. Weighting approaches differ in terms of accuracy, ease of use, complexity, and theoretical foundations. When the opinions of the wider audience are needed, electronic surveys with the matrix questions consisting of the visual analogue scales (VAS) might be employed as the easily understandable data collection tool. The novel criteria weighting technique VASMA weighting (VAS Matrix for the criteria weighting) is presented in this paper. It respects the psychometric features of the VAS scales and analyzes the uncertainties caused by the survey-based preference elicitation. VASMA weighting integrates WASPAS-SVNS for the determination of the subjective weights and Shannon entropy for the calculation of the objective weights. Numerical example analyzing the importance of the criteria that affect parents’ decisions regarding the choice of the kindergarten institution was performed as the practical application. Comparison of the VASMA weighting and the direct rating (DR) methodologies was done. It revealed that VASMA weighting is able to overcome the main disadvantages of the DR technique—the high biases of the collected data and the low variation of the criteria weights. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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21 pages, 5149 KiB  
Article
A New Model for Determining the EOQ under Changing Price Parameters and Reordering Time
by Tetyana Nestorenko, Mangirdas Morkunas, Jana Peliova, Artiom Volkov, Tomas Balezentis and Dalia Streimkiene
Symmetry 2020, 12(9), 1512; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12091512 - 14 Sep 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3299
Abstract
The present study deals with the modification of Wilson’s formulation by taking into account changes in the supply chain represented by the parameters of the model, namely varying delivery costs and price of goods stored. The four different models are presented. The proposed [...] Read more.
The present study deals with the modification of Wilson’s formulation by taking into account changes in the supply chain represented by the parameters of the model, namely varying delivery costs and price of goods stored. The four different models are presented. The proposed models avoid the main drawbacks of Wilson’s formulation—the constant price and reordering time—and discuss the case where varying parameters are used alongside discounting. The proposed models render lower costs under particular settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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17 pages, 8637 KiB  
Article
Preliminary Results in Testing of a Novel Asymmetric Underactuated Robotic Hand Exoskeleton for Motor Impairment Rehabilitation
by Flaviu Ionuț Birouaș, Radu Cătălin Țarcă, Simona Dzitac and Ioan Dzitac
Symmetry 2020, 12(9), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12091470 - 07 Sep 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3484
Abstract
Robotic exoskeletons are a trending topic in both robotics and rehabilitation therapy. The research presented in this paper is a summary of robotic exoskeleton development and testing for a human hand, having application in motor rehabilitation treatment. The mechanical design of the robotic [...] Read more.
Robotic exoskeletons are a trending topic in both robotics and rehabilitation therapy. The research presented in this paper is a summary of robotic exoskeleton development and testing for a human hand, having application in motor rehabilitation treatment. The mechanical design of the robotic hand exoskeleton implements a novel asymmetric underactuated system and takes into consideration a number of advantages and disadvantages that arose in the literature in previous mechanical design, regarding hand exoskeleton design and also aspects related to the symmetric and asymmetric geometry and behavior of the biological hand. The technology used for the manufacturing and prototyping of the mechanical design is 3D printing. A comprehensive study of the exoskeleton has been done with and without the wearer’s hand in the exoskeleton, where multiple feedback sources are used to determine symmetric and asymmetric behaviors related to torque, position, trajectory, and laws of motion. Observations collected during the experimental testing proved to be valuable information in the field of augmenting the human body with robotic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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23 pages, 3030 KiB  
Article
Location Selection of a Manufacturing Facility from the Perspective of Supply Chain Sustainability
by Sun-Weng Huang, James J.H. Liou, William Tang and Gwo-Hshiung Tzeng
Symmetry 2020, 12(9), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12091418 - 26 Aug 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3839
Abstract
When threatened with catastrophic political or economic fluctuations, a firm might be forced to consider relocating their supply chain to reduce the risk. Such a relocation necessitates a series of changes, so making the right decision is crucial for sustainable development of the [...] Read more.
When threatened with catastrophic political or economic fluctuations, a firm might be forced to consider relocating their supply chain to reduce the risk. Such a relocation necessitates a series of changes, so making the right decision is crucial for sustainable development of the company. In the past, various models have been developed to help managers to select the optimal location. However, most of these considered the factors independently but in the real world, these factors have a mutually influential relationship. This study purposes a hybrid multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) model to provide decision makers with a comprehensive framework to evaluate the best strategies to solve relocation problems, which also considers the interdependency between criteria. The model incorporates the DANP (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory-based Analytic Network Process) model (subjective weight) and entropy method (objective weight) to determine the weights of the criteria. Then, the modified VIKOR (VIšekriterijumsko Kompromisno Rangiranje) method is applied to select the optimal alternative for relocation. The usefulness of the model is demonstrated by taking an electronics manufacturing company with a global supply chain as an example. The results indicate that the proposed hybrid model can assist companies in choosing the best locations for their supply chains for sustained development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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18 pages, 3456 KiB  
Article
A Bibliometric Analysis of Symmetry (2009–2019)
by Bo Li, Zeshui Xu, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Jurgita Antuchevičienė and Zenonas Turskis
Symmetry 2020, 12(8), 1304; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12081304 - 05 Aug 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2944
Abstract
Symmetry is an international journal in the research fields of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, computer science, theory and methods, and other scientific disciplines and engineering. The first paper was published in 2009. Here, we make a bibliometric analysis of publications in Symmetry from [...] Read more.
Symmetry is an international journal in the research fields of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, computer science, theory and methods, and other scientific disciplines and engineering. The first paper was published in 2009. Here, we make a bibliometric analysis of publications in Symmetry from 2009 to 2019. According to Web of Science (WoS), we obtained 3215 publications in this journal. First, we explore the publications, citation number, and citation structure based on bibliometric indicators. Second, we analyze the most influential objects, including countries/regions, institutions, authors, and papers. Cooperation networks are also presented. Next, the co-citation and burst detection analyses are conducted according to the techniques of visualization tools, i.e., VOSviewer and CiteSpace. Furthermore, the co-occurrence analyses and timeline view analyses of keywords are investigated, aiming to explore the research hotspots. Finally, this paper provides relatively thorough perspectives and reviews and discloses the future development trend of this journal and challenges for scholars, which will promote the development of the journal and in-depth research of scholars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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15 pages, 634 KiB  
Article
A Novel Extension of the TOPSIS Method Adapted for the Use of Single-Valued Neutrosophic Sets and Hamming Distance for E-Commerce Development Strategies Selection
by Darjan Karabašević, Dragiša Stanujkić, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas, Predrag Stanimirović, Gabrijela Popović, Bratislav Predić and Alptekin Ulutaş
Symmetry 2020, 12(8), 1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12081263 - 30 Jul 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3506
Abstract
Neutrosophic sets have been recognized as an effective approach in solving complex decision-making (DM) problems, mainly when such problems are related to uncertainties, as published in numerous articles thus far. The use of the three membership functions that can be used to express [...] Read more.
Neutrosophic sets have been recognized as an effective approach in solving complex decision-making (DM) problems, mainly when such problems are related to uncertainties, as published in numerous articles thus far. The use of the three membership functions that can be used to express accuracy, inaccuracy, and indeterminacy during the evaluation of alternatives in multiple-criteria DM can be said to be a significant advantage of these sets. By utilizing these membership functions, neutrosophic sets provide an efficient and flexible approach to the evaluation of alternatives, even if DM problems are related to uncertainty and predictions. On the other hand, the TOPSIS method is a prominent multiple-criteria decision-making method used so far to solve numerous decision-making problems, and many extensions of the TOPSIS method are proposed to enable the use of different types of fuzzy as well as neutrosophic sets. Therefore, a novel extension of the TOPSIS method adapted for the use of single-valued neutrosophic sets was considered in this paper. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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16 pages, 292 KiB  
Article
Similarity Measures of Quadripartitioned Single Valued Bipolar Neutrosophic Sets and Its Application in Multi-Criteria Decision Making Problems
by Subhadip Roy, Jeong-Gon Lee, Anita Pal and Syamal Kumar Samanta
Symmetry 2020, 12(6), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12061012 - 16 Jun 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2294
Abstract
In this paper, a definition of quadripartitioned single valued bipolar neutrosophic set (QSVBNS) is introduced as a generalization of both quadripartitioned single valued neutrosophic sets (QSVNS) and bipolar neutrosophic sets (BNS). There is an inherent symmetry in the definition of QSVBNS. Some operations [...] Read more.
In this paper, a definition of quadripartitioned single valued bipolar neutrosophic set (QSVBNS) is introduced as a generalization of both quadripartitioned single valued neutrosophic sets (QSVNS) and bipolar neutrosophic sets (BNS). There is an inherent symmetry in the definition of QSVBNS. Some operations on them are defined and a set theoretic study is accomplished. Various similarity measures and distance measures are defined on QSVBNS. An algorithm relating to multi-criteria decision making problem is presented based on quadripartitioned bipolar weighted similarity measure. Finally, an example is shown to verify the flexibility of the given method and the advantage of considering QSVBNS in place of fuzzy sets and bipolar fuzzy sets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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15 pages, 1949 KiB  
Article
A Novel Integrated PIPRECIA–Interval-Valued Triangular Fuzzy ARAS Model: E-Learning Course Selection
by Kristina Jaukovic Jocic, Goran Jocic, Darjan Karabasevic, Gabrijela Popovic, Dragisa Stanujkic, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas and Phong Thanh Nguyen
Symmetry 2020, 12(6), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12060928 - 02 Jun 2020
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 3233
Abstract
The development of information and communication technologies has revolutionized and changed the way we do business in various areas. The field of education did not remain immune to the mentioned changes; there was a gradual integration of the educational process and the mentioned [...] Read more.
The development of information and communication technologies has revolutionized and changed the way we do business in various areas. The field of education did not remain immune to the mentioned changes; there was a gradual integration of the educational process and the mentioned technologies. As a result, platforms for distance learning, as well as the organization of e-learning courses of various types, have been developed. The rapid development of e-learning courses has led to the problem of e-learning course selection and evaluation. The problem of the e-learning course selection can be successfully solved by using multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods. Therefore, the aim of the paper is to propose an integrated approach based on the MCDM methods and symmetry principles for e-learning course selection. The pivot pairwise relative criteria importance assessment (PIPRECIA) method is used for determining the weights of criteria, and the interval-valued triangular fuzzy additive ratio assessment (ARAS) method is used for the ranking of alternatives i.e., e-learning courses. The suitability of the proposed integrated model is demonstrated through a numerical case study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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15 pages, 609 KiB  
Article
Application of a Gray-Based Decision Support Framework for Location Selection of a Temporary Hospital during COVID-19 Pandemic
by Sarfaraz Hashemkhani Zolfani, Morteza Yazdani, Ali Ebadi Torkayesh and Arman Derakhti
Symmetry 2020, 12(6), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym12060886 - 30 May 2020
Cited by 70 | Viewed by 4923
Abstract
The hospital location selection problem is one of the most important decisions in the healthcare sector in big cities due to population growth and the possibility of a high number of daily referred patients. A poor location selection process can lead to many [...] Read more.
The hospital location selection problem is one of the most important decisions in the healthcare sector in big cities due to population growth and the possibility of a high number of daily referred patients. A poor location selection process can lead to many issues for the health workforce and patients, and it can result in many unnecessary costs for the healthcare systems. The COVID-19 outbreak had a noticeable effect on people’s lives and the service quality of hospitals during recent months. The hospital location selection problem for infected patients with COVID-19 turned out to be one of the most significant and complicated decisions with many uncertain involved parameters for healthcare sectors in countries with high cases. In this study, a gray-based decision support framework using criteria importance through inter-criteria correlation (CRITIC) and combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) methods is proposed for location selection of a temporary hospital for COVID-19 patients. A case study is performed for Istanbul using the proposed decision-making framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models)
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