Research on an innovative design and evaluation method of Chinese tea sets based on GT-AHP-FCE

AIMS

In order to explore new consumer demands for Chinese tea set products, propose an innovative tea set product design and evaluation method to improve the user experience and satisfaction of the produced tea sets, thereby promoting the development of the tea set market and the promotion of tea culture.

METHODS

Firstly, grounded theory (GT) was used to analyze interview data to extract consumer demand indicators and construct a design evaluation hierarchical model. Secondly, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to calculate the weights of the indicators, determine their priority of importance, and obtain several indicators that have a greater impact on the tea set design to guide innovative design practice. Lastly, the tea set design schemes were evaluated using the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to select the optimal design scheme and also to act as a guideline for further design optimization.

CONCLUSION

This study explores the innovative design and evaluation method for tea set products based on GT-AHP-FCE and validates the feasibility of this approach through a practical example of tea set design inspired by "The Classic of Mountains and Seas.". It provides innovative theoretical and practical guidance for designers of subsequent tea set products and also provides a new path for the inheritance and innovation of traditional culture.

Constructing a student development model for undergraduate vocational universities in China using the Fuzzy Delphi Method and Analytic Hierarchy Process

As the industrial structure changes, the severe shortage of high-quality technical and skilled talent in China is one of the most significant factors affecting the high-quality development of China's economy. Bridging the gap between cultivating talent from new undergraduate vocational universities and the demand for industrial talent is regarded as an efficient strategy to address the talent shortage. In addressing the gap, China is hindered by a lack of clarity regarding student development goals and effective assessment instruments. Thus, this study aimed to use the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to overcome the above challenges. Specifically, we used the FDM to establish a five-level undergraduate vocational education student development model with two 2nd-level indicators, three 3rd-level indicators, eight 4th-level indicators, and 33 5th-level indicators to clarify student development goals. Then, the AHP was applied to determine the indicator weights, and a student development assessment instrument was developed to help universities acquire student development data and improve the matching degree between talent supply and demand. This study could help undergraduate vocational universities cultivate high-quality technical and skilled talent quickly to meet the demand for China's new economic system and to promote industry independence and global competitiveness.

Spatial assessment of flood vulnerability and waterlogging extent in agricultural lands using RS-GIS and AHP technique-a case study of Patan district Gujarat, India

Assessing and mapping flood risks are fundamental tools that significantly contribute to the enhancement of flood management strategies. Identifying areas that are susceptible to floods and devising strategies to reduce the risk of waterlogging is of utmost importance. In the present study, an integrated approach, combining advanced remote sensing technologies, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), was adopted in the Patan district of Gujarat, India, with a coastline spanning over 1600 km, to evaluate the numerous variables that contribute to the risk of flooding and waterlogging. After evaluating the flood conditioning factors and their respective weights using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the results were processed in GIS to accurately delineate areas that are prone to flooding. The results highlighted exceptional precision in identifying vulnerable areas, allowing for a thorough evaluation of the impact severity. The integrated approach yields valuable insights for multi-criteria assessments. The findings indicate that a significant portion of the district's land, precisely 8.94%, was susceptible to very high- risk of flooding, while 27.76% were classified as high-risk areas. Notably, 35.17% of the region was identified as having a moderate level of risk. Additionally, 20.96% and 7.15% were categorized as low-risk and very low-risk areas, respectively. Overall, the study highlights the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of floods on vulnerable communities. The research findings were verified by conducting ground truth and visual assessments using microwave satellite imagery (Sentinel-1). The aim of this validation was to test the accuracy of the study in identifying waterlogged agricultural areas and their extent based on AHP analysis. The ground verification and analysis of satellite images confirmed that the model accurately identified approximately 74% of the area categorized under high and very high flood vulnerability to be waterlogged and flooded. This research can provide valuable assistance to policymakers and authorities responsible for flood management by gathering necessary information about floods, including their intensity and the regions that are most susceptible to their impact. Additionally, it is crucial to implement corrective measures to improve soil drainage in vulnerable areas during heavy rainfall events. Prioritizing the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and improving land use are also crucial for environmental conservation.

Convenient Site Selection of a Floating PV Power Plant in Türkiye by using GIS-Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process

Floating photovoltaics (FPVs) are appearing as a promising and an alternative renewable energy opinion in which PV panels are mounted on floating platforms in order to produce electricity from renewable energy on water such as seas, dams, rivers, oceans, canals, fish farms, and reservoirs. So far, such studies related to the body knowledge on financial, technical, and environmental aspects of installation of FPV have not been performed in Turkey while expanding steadily in other countries. In this study, suitable site selection for installation of FPV power plants on three lakes in Turkey was studied by performing geographic information system (GIS) and the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) as multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method. This detailed study revealed that the criterion of global horizontal irradiance (GHI) was determined as the most crucial criterion for the installation of FPV on Beysehir Lake, Lake of Tuz, and Van Lake. Additionally, it was clearly seen that the Beysehir Lake had the highest value approximately 52% among other lakes for installation, that is why Beysehir Lake is selected as the best option for installation of an FPV system with this multi-criteria approach.

Prioritization of sub-watersheds and subsequent site identification for soil water and conservation practices using the SWAT-AHP integrated model in the Lower Sutlej Sub-basin, India

Prioritization of watersheds is a crucial step in integrated river basin management. It guides resource allocation, planning, decision-making, stakeholder engagement, targeted interventions, and monitoring and evaluation efforts. By identifying and addressing priority watersheds, comprehensive and sustainable management of water resources can be achieved within a river basin. The aim of the current study is to prioritize watersheds using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and site suitability analysis for the implementation of soil and water conservation structures (SWCS) in the prioritized watersheds by using an analytical hierarchy process (AHP) of the Lower Sutlej Sub-basin, India. The model was calibrated with observed data from 2017 to 2019 with the first 2 years (2015-16) as a warm-up period. Furthermore, validation of the model was done using 2-year data from 2020 to 2021. The model showed successful performance in terms of the R2 range from 0.72 to 0.89, the NSE range from 0.67 to 0.73, the PBIAS range from - 26.70 to 11.30, and the RSR range from 0.51 to 0.57 for stream flow and sediment yield during calibration and validation period. The basin's average annual soil loss ranged from 3.08 to 21.63 t/ha/year, a watershed with the WS2 index seeing the highest rate of soil erosion (21.63 t/ha/year). Hence, WS2 was found to be a top priority. In addition, the site suitability analysis of the prioritized watershed (WS2) reveals that about 1.42% of the area is extremely suitable, 16.14% is highly suitable, and 35.58% is moderately suitable for SWCS. According to the site suitability map validation, both dam locations were found in highly suitable areas, so the developed site suitability map is accurate. This research will help sustainability planners and managers make more informed decisions when building SWCS at suitable sites for better land and water conservation.

Integrated analytical hierarchy process-grey relational analysis approach for mechanical recycling scenarios of plastics waste in India

Mechanical recycling is an indispensable tool for plastic waste (PW) recycling and has the highest share in the PW recycling sector in India. The transition to the circular economy of plastics (CEoP) needs a systemic perspective on the mechanical recycling processes. Nevertheless, the assessment of multiple parameters influencing the mechanical recycling of PW is a complex decision-making problem for the development of triple-bottom-line mechanical recycling. A systemic perspective of various mechanical recycling scenarios was performed by employing a multi-criteria decision-making approach to examine the complexity of interlinked factors in the present investigation. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) integrated with grey relational analysis (GRA) was used to evaluate the criteria that directly influence quality-oriented mechanical recycling. Data were collected by conducting semi-structured interviews using a framed questionnaire in stakeholder engagement with mechanical recyclers of PW. The first level hierarchy included economy, technical, resource consumption and environmental criteria. These criteria were further categorized into various significant indices such as quality of recyclate, recyclability, water and energy consumption during recycling. The results of the integrated grey relational analysis indicated that the technical parameters including quality of recyclate, resource efficiency, PW processing rate and recyclability have a significant influence on mechanical recycling. Based on AHP-GRA, scenario MR6, i.e. manufacturing of PET strap from recycled PET flakes, was ranked the optimal mechanical process amongst the various scenarios. MR6 was followed by Straps and Films at the second and third rank. The lowest ranking was observed for polymer blend recycling. These processes with higher ranks produced good quality recyclate with better efficiency and recyclability. Moreover, these processes consumed optimal resources during manufacturing. These processes also exhibited less maintenance cost, high production rate, low chemical consumption and waste generation as well as implemented pollution control practices.

Identifying high-vulnerable garbage accumulation areas in Coimbatore City, India: an AHP-GIS approach for effective waste management

Urbanization has resulted in a surge in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, posing critical waste management challenges in urban areas. To tackle this issue, we introduce a novel approach for mapping garbage vulnerability zones (GVZ) in Coimbatore City, India, combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Geographic Information System (GIS). Seven criteria, including per capita waste generation, open dumping, land use land cover, road/railway networks, and population, were integrated and analyzed in GIS. AHP pairwise comparison method assigned weights to each criterion and principal component analysis (PCA) further validated the interconnectedness of the criteria and their impact on the GVZs. The results indicated that open dumping locations and population density are the most influential factors contributing to the risk of garbage accumulation, making up 23.7% and 21.2% of the total weight, respectively. The GVZ map reveals that 94.6% of Coimbatore City is at risk of MSW accumulation, with 20.2% highly and 74.4% moderately vulnerable. Eleven high GVZ clusters were identified, with Saravanampatti, located in the northeastern part of Coimbatore City, being the most vulnerable area. The H3 hexagon format of the GVZ map enhances its usability for monitoring and mitigation capabilities. In conclusion, our comprehensive AHP-GIS approach facilitates effective waste management practices, sustainable resource utilization, and better environmental and public health outcomes in urban areas. The demonstrated methodology has the potential for application in similar developing urban areas in South Asia and the Global South, serving as a valuable tool to address the challenges posed by increasing MSW generation.

Development strategy of early childhood music education industry: An IFS-AHP-SWOT analysis based on dynamic social network

Early childhood music education has garnered recognition for its unique contribution to cognitive, emotional, and social development in children. Nevertheless, the industry grapples with numerous challenges, including a struggle to adapt traditional educational paradigms to new curriculum reforms, and an excessive emphasis on skill training at the expense of nurturing a love for music and aesthetics in children. To navigate these challenges and explore growth strategies for the early childhood music education industry, we initiated a comprehensive approach that involved distributing surveys to practitioners and parents and engaging experts for insightful discussions. Consequently, we proposed an analytical method based on dynamic social networks in conjunction with Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets (IFS), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis, collectively referred to as IFS-AHP-SWOT. This integrated methodology synergizes the capabilities of dynamic social networks, IFS, AHP, and SWOT analysis to offer a nuanced perspective on industry development strategies. The findings underscore that institutions within the early childhood music education industry need to adopt a development strategy that leverages their strengths and opportunities to foster sustainable growth. Ultimately, this research aims to provide critical decision-making support for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers, contributing significantly to the ongoing discourse on strategic development in the early childhood music education industry.

Investigation of port intervention to coastal and nearshore dynamics: a GIS and AHP approach

The goal of the study was attempted to understand the impact of selected ports on the coastal and nearshore dynamics. Dwelling activities along the coastal zone were particularly high in the last two decades. Hence, ports constructed between 2000 and 2022 such as Mundra, Hazira, Karaikal, Krishnapatnam, Gangavaram, and Gopalpur were considered for the study. The land and shore dynamics were assessed prior and after their construction. The landward impact was identified by the changes in LULC, and the dynamics of coastal sediments were assessed from numerical model before and after the ports' construction. The highly impacted land and shore features were used in analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to assess the extent of their impact due to port construction. The extent of impacts was indicated as "criteria weight (CW)" expressed as percentage. Village-wise local sensitivity analysis (LSA) of the port environs due to port activities was also assessed with six parameters such as changes in LULC, cyclone, population, road network, cultural heritage site and shore stability based on their influence on the coast on case-by-case basis using AHP. The obtained influence of the impact of these parameters was used to determine the category of local sensitivity of the adjacent villages around the ports. For effective management planning, the LSA was classified into five classes, namely, very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. Villages categorized with different sensitivities can be attempted for suitable management plans and similar studies can be attempted for all villages impacted by port interventions.

Safe utilization evaluation of two typical traditional Chinese medicinal materials in Cd-contaminated soil based on the analysis of Cd transfer and AHP model

Due to the increasing scarcity of wild resources, most traditional Chinese medicinal materials (TCMMs) in the market are produced via artificial cultivation. The widespread pollution of cadmium (Cd) in soil limits the safe cultivation and use of TCMMs. This study investigated Cd accumulation, distribution, and the medicinal component content under simulated field conditions to clarify the differences in the Cd absorption, transfer and detoxification mechanisms of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua and Bletilla striata, and provide the preliminary safe utilization conditions of TCMMs based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The results showed that the Cd content of P. cyrtonema Hua was lower than the safety threshold under a high soil Cd concentration of 0.91 mg/kg (Cd-L), while B. striata was safe only at a low Cd concentration of 0.25 mg/kg (CK). Cd at 0.91 mg/kg induced hormesis affecting the net increase in biomass and medicinal component content for both TCMMs, while P. cyrtonema Hua showed better potential for safe utilization. Additionally, P. cyrtonema Hua had stronger resistance to Cd stress, exhibiting superior characteristics for synergistic absorption of Cd with mineral elements, transfer to nonmedical part and safer fixation forms in subcellular components. In contrast, B. striata showed insufficient Cd tolerance, and Cd was easily accumulated in organelles to inhibit plant growth. Our findings may attract more attention to the safe cultivation of TCMMs and provide insight into guidance for the safe utilization of slightly Cd-contaminated soil.

Construction and application of the "Internet + public health service" supply evaluation index system

To construct an index system for evaluating the supply of Internet+ public health services, and to provide a practical tool for assessing the supply of Internet+ public health services in an objective and scientific manner. The research team drafted the index system framework by combing the literature. The Delphi method was used to determine the content and weight of the index through two rounds of expert consultations. At the same time, the Cronbach coefficient and factor analysis were adopted to test the reliability and validity. What's more, the analytic hierarchy process and the TOPSIS method were applied to analyze the empirical data of 15 counties and cities in the eastern, central, and western regions of China. The constructed indicator system includes 3 first-level indicators, 6 second-level indicators and 29 third-level indicators. Through reliability and validity tests, the stability and practicability of the index system are demonstrated in empirical research. The evaluation index system constructed in this article can be applied to the performance evaluation of Internet + public health service.

[Application of Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process to construct the evaluation index system of healthy enterprises]

Objective: Explore the application of Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process to explore the construction of scientific, objective and comprehensive evaluation index system for healthy enterprise construction and promote the construction of healthy enterprises. Methods: In October 2022, through Delphi expert consultation and analytic hierarchy process, the indexes were screened and the weights of the indexes were determined, and the evaluation index system of healthy enterprises was established. Results: The positive coefficients of experts in the two rounds were all 100.00%, the authority coefficient of experts was 0.82, the coefficients of variation of the indexes in the two rounds were all less than 0.30. The coordination coefficients of experts in the first and second rounds were 0.64 and 0.77, respectively (P<0.001) . After two rounds of Delphi method expert consultation, a healthy enterprise evaluation index system including 4 first-level indexes, 14 second-level indexes, and 63 third-level indexes was constructed. Conclusion: The constructed health enterprise evaluation index system is highly scientific and reliable, covering the main factors of healthy enterprise construction, and providing a reliable and quantifiable basis and self-assessment basis for the establishment of healthy enterprises.

An assessment of factors for the cruise port of call selection: The modified fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process

Improving cruise ports of call is essential for enhancing the overall cruise experience for passengers, promoting tourism, and supporting the economic development of the regions served by these ports. Therefore, this article aims to assess selection factors (SFs) for the cruise port of call from the perspective of cruise operators (COs) and port operators (POs). In doing so, this paper first identifies SFs for the cruise port of call and establishes their hierarchical structure thanks to the extensive literature and expert brainstorming. Afterwards, The Modified Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (MFAHP) is developed to gauge the discrepancy in SFs between COs and POs. Empirical results from MFAHP pinpoint two significant SFs for POs to improve and attract their customers: customs, immigration control and quarantine (CIQ), and incentive measures. Besides, theoretical and managerial implications, and potential limitations for the next research are discussed.

Assessment of variables determining the health management departments' efficiency with analytical hierarchy process

This study was conducted to determine the variables that play a role in the efficiency of Health Management departments in Turkey and the ranking of them in order of importance. These variables were determined by systematic analysis. The Prisma method was used in the systematic analysis approach. Input and output variables used in studies assessing the efficiency of higher education institutions in the literature were listed. The ranking of these variables was determined by Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. The questionnaire used for the AHP analysis and the judgments of 127 academicians working in Health Management Departments in universities in Turkey were assessed. The first three input variables found as a result of the AHP were "the number of registered undergraduate students per faculty member", "the number of faculty members", and "the number of other academic staff". The most important three output variables included "the number of articles searched on SCI, SSCI, SCI-E", "the number of papers presented in international congresses", and "the count of publications published in international peer-reviewed journals". To achieve positive developments in the efficiency of Health Management Departments, it is recommended to carry out studies to increase the number of qualified publications.

Adaptable leadership for arid/semi-arid wetlands conservation under climate change: Using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach

Adverse socio-economic and environmental impacts of climate change on wetlands have enforced the international community and many nations to develop adaptive policies for wetland management, which require effective leadership to influence relevant stakeholders. This study identifies and prioritizes leadership functions and theories for climate change adaptation (CCA) in wetlands ecosystems, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. A mixed qualitative-quantitative research methodology was applied through focus groups and a survey with a sample of national, sub-national, and local experts on wetlands management and climate change in Iran. The Analytic Hierarchy Processing (AHP) technique identified the political-administrative (weight = 0.245), adaptive (W = 0.244), and enabling (W = 0.237) functions for CCA, respectively, as three prioritized leadership functions, followed by the dissemination function (W = 0.102), which emphasizes the necessity of applying and enhancing leaders' social capacities, knowledge, communication skills, and personal networks to facilitate social learning and actions regarding CCA in local communities and among relevant organizations. It is necessary to overcome structural and functional barriers for leaders and their followers to information access and involvement in participatory decision-making platforms. Moreover, network and communication leadership theories (W = 0.368) and sustainable leadership perspectives (W = 0.362), respectively, have the highest priority among leadership theories and are crucial for establishing participatory decision-making among relevant stakeholders and applying adaptive strategies for wetlands governance under climate change conditions. The reconceptualization of leadership as a complex adaptive notion draws attention to the social complexities and emerging characteristics of leadership in contemporary societies and organizations. The understanding of leaders' and followers' networks and identifying the core role of leaders provides a foundation for developing leadership functions and theories beyond hierarchical, individualistic, and one-way concepts of leadership.

The analytic hierarchy process method to design applicable decision making for the effective removal of 2-MIB and geosmin in water sources

Numerous utilities encounter issues with taste and odor that alter the public's impression of the safety of drinking water. The creation of certain components in water naturally due to global climate change is another source of taste and odor components, in addition to industrial emissions. Geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (2-MIB), both of which are generated by blue-green algae and actinomycetes, are two substances that contribute to the musty and earthy smells in drinking water sources. Unfortunately, current conventional treatment plants only partially remove 2-MIB and geosmin. Therefore, to protect the environment and public health, more up-to-date or optimized treatment methods should be applied to outdated treatment facilities. Best treatment practices, evaluation standards, and decision-making approaches, however, are still shrouded in mystery. The goal of this study was to identify the most effective treatment options for 2-MIB and geosmin. By using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), a total of 22 assessment criteria were found and prioritized. A thorough literature search led to the identification of potential treatment options, and their effectiveness was evaluated. These options and priority rankings were decided upon using AHP in the decision-making process. Advanced oxidation techniques came out on top in the final priority ranking, followed by membrane filtering, adsorption, oxidation, hybrid processes, and traditional treatment methods. The applied analytical decision techniques may also be used to choose the optimal treatment options, even though the results are particular to 2-MIB and geosmin.

Groundwater spring potential zonation using AHP and fuzzy-AHP in Eastern Himalayan region: Papum Pare district, Arunachal Pradesh, India

In the present study, the groundwater spring potential zone (GSPZ) was identified using an integrated approach of remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS), analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and fuzzy-AHP based on multicriteria decision-making (MCDM). Thus, ten associated factors with groundwater springs have been considered: slope, drainage density, lineament density, geomorphology, lithology, soil texture, land use and land cover, rainfall, groundwater level, and spring discharge. The analysis output was categorized into low, moderate, and high. The result of the AHP model shows the area under the high potential zone (16.61%), the moderate potential zone (60.42%), and the low potential zone (22.61%). The result of the fuzzy-AHP model shows that the area falls under the high potential zone (30.40%), moderate potential zone (41.29%), and low potential zone (22.61%). The validation results showed fuzzy-AHP with the area under the curve 0.806, which is slightly better than 0.779 of AHP. So, the resulting GSPZ map confirms that the thematic layers used in the study have a significant role in groundwater spring occurrence and distribution. It was recommended that any groundwater spring rejuvenation or protection activities must be implemented in medium to very high potential zones.

Construction and application of a composite model for acid mine drainage quality evaluation based on analytic hierarchy process, factor analysis and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation: Guizhou Province, China, as a case

The process of mining activities often causes the formation of acid mine drainage (AMD). Through rock fractures and underground rivers, AMD can easily enter the groundwater environment near mines and cause serious pollution to water quality. In order to effectively evaluate the quality of polluted mine water and to understand its threat to the ecosystem around the mine. In this study, four AMD pollution distribution areas, Guiyang City, Bijie City, Qianxinan Prefecture, and Qiandongnan Prefecture in Guizhou Province, were used as the study area. A composite model for mine water quality evaluation was constructed using factor analysis (FA), analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE). Furthermore, by introducing the weighted average method and the level characteristic value (J), the water quality type and the water body environmental quality were evaluated comprehensively, respectively. Compared with the traditional evaluation model, the AHP-FA-FCE model has obvious advantages in the selection of evaluation indicators, the determination of indicator weights, and the comprehensive evaluation of water quality types, and the evaluation results obtained are more reasonable and accurate. Three common factors mainly controlled by mineral oxidation factor, human activity factor, and mineral dissolution factor were extracted by dimension reduction of the original hydrochemical data by FA. The water quality of the mine water samples was evaluated using SO4 2- , Fe, Al, Mn, Na, and F- as evaluation indicators, and the results showed that the mine water samples in the study area as a whole were dominated by class V water, which accounted for 77.78% of the total. Based on the statistical analysis of the original data, it was found that influenced by the water-rock interactions in the study area and the AMD pollution components, the hydrochemical type of the mine water is mainly SO4 2- -Ca-Mg type. The water body environmental quality of mine water in four areas, Guiyang City, Qianxinan Prefecture, Bijie City, and Qiandongnan Prefecture, is from excellent to poor. The average level characteristic value of all the areas is more than 3, and the overall environmental quality of the water body is poor. The strong water-rock interaction and mining activities in the study area may be the main cause of AMD pollution. The results of this study may provide some theoretical reference for the water quality evaluation of AMD-polluted areas. PRACTITIONER POINTS: A composite model for mine water quality evaluation was constructed. A factor analysis-based evaluation indicator selection method is proposed. This study improved the weighting process of the traditional fuzzy comprehensive evaluation. A water quality discriminant based on the weighted average method is proposed. The water environmental quality of various types of mine water was evaluated.

IoT-based data and analytic hierarchy process to map groundwater recharge with stormwater

The sustainable management of groundwater resources in developing countries is often challenging due to limited measurement and monitoring infrastructure to collect data necessary for decision support. To make a contribution towards addressing these challenges, this study investigated the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology and low-cost sensors to collect the required groundwater-level data and develop a model to map the recharge potential with stormwater. The study focused on two stormwater ponds located in a highly urbanised area in Cape Town, South Africa. A combination of Geographic Information System and analytic hierarchy process was integrated to generate a groundwater recharge potential zone map of the study area. The IoT-based data were used to develop and calibrate a numerical groundwater model in MODFLOW. The study determined that retrofitted stormwater ponds are potential groundwater augmentation zones and can provide opportunity for stormwater recharge in urban areas. Overall, this study highlights the potential of IoT to collect hydrogeological data with low-cost sensors. Data can be collected at high temporal resolution, and the spatial scale can be increased due to availability of low-cost sensors.

Developing a risk assessment tool for cancer-related venous thrombosis in China: a modified Delphi-analytic hierarchy process study

OBJECTIVE

To develop a Risk Assessment Tool for Cancer-related Venous Thrombosis in China.

METHODS

A modified two-round Delphi method was employed to establish consensus within a field to reach an agreement via a questionnaire or by interviewing a multidisciplinary panel of experts by collecting their feedback to inform the next round, exchanging their knowledge, experience, and opinions anonymously, and resolving uncertainties. Furthermore, The AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) was used to determine the final quality indicators' relative importance.

RESULTS

The expert's positive coefficient was 85.19% in the first round and 82.61% in the second round, with authoritative coefficients of 0.89 and 0.92 in the respective surveys. The P-value of Kendall's W test was all less than 0.001 for each round, and the W-value for concordance at the end of the two rounds was 0.115. The final Risk Assessment Tool for Cancer-related Venous Thrombosis consisted of three domains, ten subdomains, and 39 indicators, with patient factors weighing 0.1976, disease factors weighing 0.4905, and therapeutic factors weighing 0.3119.

CONCLUSION

The tool is significantly valid and reliable with a strong authority and coordination degree, and it can be used to assess the risk of cancer-related VTE and initiate appropriate thrombophylactic interventions in China.

Index construction and application of digital transformation in the insurance industry: Evidence from China

In the context of digitization, the insurance industry's value chain is undergoing significant shifts. However, the existing research on its comprehension and measurement remains relatively limited. This study constructs an index system for digital transformation in the insurance industry (DTII) on three components: digital infrastructure, digital platform, and digital applications. Utilizing data from 31 provinces in China, this study employs the entropy weight method, analytic hierarchy process method and minimum relative entropy method to measure the weights of indicators, empirically applying this index system. The results show that DTII in China experiences rapid advancement with an average annual growth rate of 20.46% from 2014 to 2020 and there exists strong regional convergence. In addition, the spatial agglomeration and spatial effects of DTII are mainly concentrated in the life insurance industry and the eastern region. This study provides an index system and empirical evidence for evaluating the DTII, providing policy insights for exploring the sustainable development path of the insurance industry in the digital era.

Modeling climate change adaptation for sustainable coastal zones using GIS and AHP

The world is currently confronting one of its biggest environmental challenges: combating climate change. Coastal zones are one of the areas thought to be most sensitive to current and future climate change threats. The paper integrates Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques, and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to detect vulnerable areas from climate change impacts in coastal zones in order to recommend adaptation systems in new coastal zones that can withstand various climatic changes. The proposed decision-making framework was developed in three phases: 1) climate data collection and processing; 2) Coastal Climate Impact Assessment (CCIA) model development; and 3) implementation and adaptation system selection. The climate data collection and processing phase involves determining the most significant climate change parameters and their indicators that affect coastal zone stability, extracting climatic data indicators from different climate database sources, and prioritizing the selected indicators. The indicators' weights were estimated using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) through a questionnaire survey shared with experts in climate change impacts. A CCIA model development phase involves the formulation of the proposed model using GIS technique to discover the vulnerable areas according to the most dominant impact. The implementation and adaptation system selection phase involves the application of the framework to Al-Alamein New City in Egypt. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to measure the behavior of several climate change parameters to identify the most critical parameter for climate change in Al-Alamein New City. The results showed that the geology of the region is the most crucial component influenced by climate change. It is capable of producing a very sensitive area in the coastal zone while also taking other factors into account. When creating new urban neighborhoods, the erosion of the shoreline is the least important factor to consider. This is because coastal deterioration is caused by both the influence of metrological data on the region and the impact of human activity. Shoreline deterioration will be reduced if climate conditions are maintained while limiting the impact of human activities. To adapt to the long-term effects of climate change on coastal zones, a combination of soft and hard protection systems should be considered.

Prioritization of Injury Prevention and Management Programs and Research and Development (R&D) Projects: Survey Using the Delphi Technique and Analytic Hierarchy Process

We prioritized injury prevention and management programs, and research and development (R&D) projects using the Delphi method and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) for national plan. We summarized 21 programs and 31 R&D projects based on opinions collected in the opinion survey and brainstorming. Expert panel evaluated program and project relevance in the two Delphi rounds to make consensus. Total scores were calculated by adding criterion weights calculated through the AHP multiplied by the average of scores for each program and project. The top three programs were "Integrated Management System for Injury Data," "Comprehensive Injury Surveillance System," and "Transport System Improvement Program for Major Trauma." The top three R&D projects were researches on "Identification of Vulnerable Workers Injuries to Strengthen Protections," "Data Integration on Injury and Disability," and "Using Public Health Big Data to Identify Injury Status and Risk Factors." Experts highly rated the programs to improve injury surveillance system.

Benefit evaluation of in-situ Cd immobilization with naturally occurring minerals using an analytical hierarchy process

Immobilization has a wide range of applications in heavy metal-contaminated soil remediation, and immobilization agents serve as the key to the successful application of this technology. In this study, we designed a comprehensive and efficient scoring system based on an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of three immobilization agents (wollastonite, dolomite, and calcite) in remediating Cd-polluted soil. The scoring system comprised four criteria and 11 indicators, and the results showed that all three immobilization agents significantly reduced the accumulation of Cd in rice. The Cd reduction rates of early rice with a single application of wollastonite, dolomite, and calcite were 67.6%, 46.9%, and 83.8%, respectively. Single or combined application of dolomite and calcite decreased the available Cd concentration in early rice soil, and the application of calcite resulted in an excellent rating of both early and late rice, demonstrating its highest immobilization and stability performance. Therefore, the immobilization efficiency of the three materials in descending order followed calcite > dolomite + thioglycols > wollastonite. In summary, this comprehensive evaluation system offers new insight into assessing the efficiency of soil remediation, serving as a valuable reference for selecting immobilization agents and making decisions regarding remediation plans for heavy metal-contaminated soil.

Development of landslide susceptibility maps of Tripura, India using GIS and analytical hierarchy process (AHP)

Landslides are one of the most extensive and destructive geological hazards on the globe. Tripura, a northeastern hilly state of India experiences landslides almost every year during monsoon season causing casualties and huge economic losses. Hence, it is required to assess the landslide susceptibility of the area that would support short- and long-term planning and mitigation. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) integrated with geospatial technology has been adopted for landslide susceptibility mapping in the state. Eight influencing factors such as slope, lithology, drainage density, rainfall, land use land cover, distance from rivers and roads, and soil type were selected to map the landslide susceptibility. Landslide susceptibility index (LSI) was found to vary from 6.205 during monsoon to 1.427 during post-monsoon season. The LSI values were classified into very high, high, moderate, low, and very low susceptibility. Landslide susceptibility maps for three different seasons, namely, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon, were prepared. The study showed that most of the areas of the state come under very low to moderate landslide susceptibility zones. Around 73.2% area of the state is found to be under low landslide-susceptible zones during the pre-monsoon season, around 62% area is prone to landslides with moderate susceptibility during the monsoon season, and 68.5% area comes under landslides with low susceptibility zones during the post-monsoon season. The results of this study may be referred to the engineers and planners for the assessment, control, and mitigation of landslides and the development of basic infrastructure in the state.

Remote sensing, GIS, and analytic hierarchy process-based delineation and sustainable management of potential groundwater zones: a case study of Jhargram district, West Bengal, India

The present investigation delineates groundwater potential zones (GPZ) in the Jhargram district through an integrated approach employing analytical hierarchical process (AHP), remote sensing, and geographical information systems (GIS). Twelve parameters were utilized for GPZ analysis based on the Groundwater Potential Index, subsequent to multicollinearity testing. Classification of GPZ yielded five distinct categories: very poor, poor, moderate, good, and very good. Validation through receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and cross-validation with borewell yield data affirmed prediction accuracies of 78.4% and 84%, respectively. Spatial distribution analysis revealed that 30.39%, 30.86%, and 13.19% of the surveyed area fell within the poor, moderate, and good potentiality zones, respectively, whereas 15.86% and 9.69% were categorized as very poor and very good GPZs. Sensitivity analysis highlighted the significance of geology, elevation, geomorphology, slope, and lineament density as influencing parameters; elimination of any single parameter engendered significant alterations in the GPZ classification. The investigation culminated in the formulation of a block-wise sustainable groundwater management blueprint designed to inform policy initiatives.

[Development of comprehensive vitality scale for the elderly based on classical test theory and analytic hierarchy process]

The present study aims to construct an elderly vitality index evaluation system and develop a comprehensive vitality evaluation scale for the elderly to reasonably evaluate the vitality level of the elderly in China, so as to provide a reference for promoting the realization of "active aging" and "healthy aging". Literature research and in-depth interview were used to collect the senile vitality sensitive indexes. The indexes were screened and corrected by Delphi expert consultation method, item analysis method based on classical test theory, factor analysis method, and reliability and validity analysis method. The analytic hierarchy process was used to calculate the weight of each level of indexes. An elderly vitality evaluation system including 4 first-level indexes and 24 second-level indexes was constructed. The consistency test results of all levels of indicators showed that the consistency index (CI) and consistent ratio (CR) were both less than 0.1, which met the requirements and showed satisfactory consistency. The weights of exercise vitality, nutritional vitality, psychological vitality and social vitality were 0.263, 0.141, 0.455 and 0.141, respectively. In conclusion, the comprehensive vitality scale constructed for the Chinese elderly is reliable and scientific, and can be used to evaluate the vitality of the elderly.

Optimization of Ethanol Extraction Technology for Yujin Powder Using Response Surface Methodology with a Box-Behnken Design Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process-Criteria Importance through Intercriteria Correlation Weight Analysis and Its Safety Evaluation

Here, we aimed to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for Yujin powder (YJP) and evaluate its safety. The ultrasonic-assisted ethanol reflux extraction method refluxing was used to extract YJP. The parameters were optimized through a combination of single-factor and response surface methodology (RSM). The comprehensive Y value score calculated using the content of 13 active ingredients in YJP ethanolic extracts (YEEs) and the yield of the dry extract were used as measuring criteria. RSM with a Box-Behnken design using three factors and three levels was adopted to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for YJP. Finally, acute and subchronic toxicity tests were performed to evaluate its safety. The results revealed the best technological parameters: a liquid-material ratio of 24:1, an ethanol concentration of 69%, assistance of ultrasound (40 °C, 50 kHZ, 30 min), reflux time of 53 min, and reflux temperature of 50 °C. In acute toxicity tests, the maximum administration dosage in mice was 28.21 g/kg, which is higher than 10 times the clinical dosage. Adverse effects in the acute and subchronic toxicity tests were not observed. All clinical indexes were normal. In conclusion, the RSM based on AHP-CRITIC weight analysis could be used to optimize the ethanol extraction technology for YJP and YEEs prepared under the above conditions and ensure high safety.

Prioritizing biomaterials for spinal disc implants by a fuzzy AHP and TOPSIS decision making method

Considerable research has been focused on identifying the optimum biomaterial for spine implants. New technologies and materials have allowed surgeons to better grasp the biomechanical principles underpinning implant stability and function. An optimal biomaterial for total disc replacement (TDR) should include essential characteristics such as biocompatibility, long-term durability, the capacity to withstand mechanical stresses, and economic viability. Our research has focused on six biomaterials for TDR, including Ti-6Al-4V, CoCr alloy, stainless steel 316L, zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA), polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and ultra-high-molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Ten common properties, i.e., the Young's modulus, density, tensile strength, the expense of the manufacturing process, the cost of raw material, wear rate, corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity, fracture toughness and compressive strength were utilized to assess these six different materials. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and rank the six alternative biomaterials proposed for use in the endplates and articulating surface of a spinal TDR. To accomplish this, a multi-criteria decision-making approach, namely the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP) and the Technique of Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was adopted to solve the model. For validation and robustness of the proposed method, sensitivity analysis was performed, and comparison was performed with fuzzy-VIKOR and fuzzy-MOORA methods. In light of the study's results, ZTA and Ti-6Al-4V were identified as the best suited materials for the articulating surface and endplates, respectively, in a spinal disc implant.

Real-Time Robotic Presentation Skill Scoring Using Multi-Model Analysis and Fuzzy Delphi-Analytic Hierarchy Process

Existing methods for scoring student presentations predominantly rely on computer-based implementations and do not incorporate a robotic multi-classification model. This limitation can result in potential misclassification issues as these approaches lack active feature learning capabilities due to fixed camera positions. Moreover, these scoring methods often solely focus on facial expressions and neglect other crucial factors, such as eye contact, hand gestures and body movements, thereby leading to potential biases or inaccuracies in scoring. To address these limitations, this study introduces Robotics-based Presentation Skill Scoring (RPSS), which employs a multi-model analysis. RPSS captures and analyses four key presentation parameters in real time, namely facial expressions, eye contact, hand gestures and body movements, and applies the fuzzy Delphi method for criteria selection and the analytic hierarchy process for weighting, thereby enabling decision makers or managers to assign varying weights to each criterion based on its relative importance. RPSS identifies five academic facial expressions and evaluates eye contact to achieve a comprehensive assessment and enhance its scoring accuracy. Specific sub-models are employed for each presentation parameter, namely EfficientNet for facial emotions, DeepEC for eye contact and an integrated Kalman and heuristic approach for hand and body movements. The scores are determined based on predefined rules. RPSS is implemented on a robot, and the results highlight its practical applicability. Each sub-model is rigorously evaluated offline and compared against benchmarks for selection. Real-world evaluations are also conducted by incorporating a novel active learning approach to improve performance by leveraging the robot's mobility. In a comparative evaluation with human tutors, RPSS achieves a remarkable average agreement of 99%, showcasing its effectiveness in assessing students' presentation skills.

[Research on Cost Control and Rationalization Application Supervision of Medical Equipment Consumables Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the medical equipment operation data of 44 clinical departments in the hospital from three aspects: materials and consumables, operation and maintenance depreciation, and operation management.

METHODS

To formulate the evaluation standards and scoring criteria for the operation indicators, the lowest score is 0 points, and the highest score is 5 points. Based on the operation indicators of medical equipment, establish a hierarchical structure model, determine the criterion layer and sub-criteria layer, construct a judgment matrix, normalize it, and calculate the weight coefficient.

RESULTS

Count equipment operation data in 2021 and 2022. Score according to the assessment standards, assign weights through the analytic hierarchy process, calculate the total score and sort, and making a special analysis on the top 10 departments and departments with a score below 4 points, and formulate a rectification plan.

CONCLUSIONS

The establishment of index assessment standards and the weight distribution of AHP can effectively enhance the control of equipment operating costs.

Mapping flood vulnerability using an analytical hierarchy process (AHP) in the Metropolis of Mumbai

The burgeoning significance of urban floods in the context of evolving climate dynamics and shifting rainfall patterns underscores the exigency for comprehensive investigation and mitigation strategies. The study employs a multi-criteria assessment (MCE) approach and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate flood-vulnerable zones, wards, and sub-category-wise flood locations in Greater Mumbai. The AHP technique is used to evaluate flood-vulnerable impacting parameters such as rainfall (29.42%), slope (20.96%), land use/land cover (17.52%), vicinity to sewers and storm-water drainage (13.99%), vicinity to natural drainage (8.97%), vegetation (5.58%), and soil (3.56%). The study area is classified under different vulnerable categories as severe vulnerable (46.72%), high to very high (18.74%), and slight to moderate (34.54%). Researchers analysed 234 waterlogged locations, revealing that 85.46% (200 locations) were in the severe to very high vulnerability category, and only 14.52% (34 locations) were in the other three categories. Flood locations are more affected by slope (under the categories of < 5 m and 5.01-10 m), built-up land, sewers and storm water drainage (< 125 m), natural drainage (< 250 m), rainfall (< 2000 to 2200 mm), lowest dense vegetation, and coastal alluvium in soils. These model-based flood vulnerability maps are crucial for planning flood conservation and mitigation measures.

Determination of landslide susceptibility with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the role of forest ecosystem services on landslide susceptibility

The analysis of landslide susceptibility is a crucial tool in the mitigation and management of ecological and economic hazards. The number of studies examining how the form and durability of forest areas affect landslide susceptibility is very limited. This study was conducted in the Marmara region of northwestern Türkiye, where forested areas and industrial zones are intertwined and dense. The landslide susceptibility map was produced by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. In the context of AHP, a total of 12 different variables were employed, namely lithology, slope, curvatures, precipitations, aspect, distance to fault lines, distance to streams, distance to roads, land use, soil, elevation, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The performance analysis of the landslide susceptibility map was conducted using the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve method. The AUC value was computed (0.809) for the landslide susceptibility map generated by using the AHP technique. Forest type maps were used to analyze the impact of forests on landslide susceptibility. In terms of forest structure, 4 main criteria were determined: stand structure, development stage, crown closure, and stand age. Each criterion was analyzed with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) by overlaying it with the landslide susceptibility map of the study area. The results showed that the risk of landslides was lowest in forests with more than one tree species, mature, development stage and of (e) > 52 cm, and crown closure of 41%-70% (2).

Research on cultural and creative design method of 2022 World Cup lamps based on AHP-FCE

AIMS

Through an in-depth study of Qatari culture, to explore the application of the essence of the unique national culture to World Cup creative design, and to provide new ideas and reference design framework and ideas for the integration of culture and World Cup creative design.

METHOD

Carry out design practice with Qatari culture, and discuss in detail the specific strategy of integrating national culture into the cultural and creative design of the World Cup. First, conduct user interviews based on grounded theory to collect and evaluate demand indicators and establish a hierarchical model, and then use the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to analyze user needs, construct design elements for the World Cup cultural and creative design, and calculate the weight of each design element to determine the design Ordering among elements. Finally, the optimal scheme is selected by scoring the scheme through fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method (FCE), so as to determine the final design scheme of the product.

CONCLUSION

The article explores the specific practice method of integrating culture and design, and provides a solution reference for how to integrate excellent national culture into the World Cup cultural and creative design, which not only improves the cultural and spiritual connotation of the product, but also effectively realises the heritage and innovation of culture.

Maturity degree assessment of hospital ward system using integrated fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS model

BACKGROUND

The hospital ward system is the core service unit of a hospital and an important aspect of hospital management. The maturity of the hospital ward system represents the level of development and improvement in ward management and services. In order to improve the quality of hospital services, it is significant to assess the maturity of the ward system. Although various assessment methods have been proposed in existing studies, there are some issues such as a single-dimensional factor system, subjectivity in qualitative factor values, and insufficient objectivity in the evaluation methods.

METHODS

Therefore, based on the data collection of the factors used in the existing literature, this study made correlation analysis, determined the similarity of factors, and established a maturity assessment factor system satisfying distinctiveness and comprehensiveness. Furthermore, an evaluation method for the weights of each factor was proposed based on the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, while taking account of the ambiguity of expert information. In addition, through the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution method, an objective evaluation method for the maturity of the hospital ward system was established. Finally, a case study involving 6 hospitals in a specific location was conducted.

RESULTS

There are a total of 16 factors used to assess the maturity of the hospital ward system, among which the most important is Doctor service. The maturity degree of the 6 researched hospitals are 0.4517, 0.0035, 0.4254, 0.8681, 0.6636, 0.1586, and the maturity degree of the 6 researched hospitals are II, I, II, IV, III, I.

CONCLUSION

The factor system constructed in this study effectively reflected the importance of human-related factors in the development process of ward system. The evaluation results were consistent with the actual situation, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method.

[Optimization of extraction process for classic prescription Yihuang Decoction based on Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology, standard relation, and analytic hierarchy process combined with entropy weight method]

Based on the concept of quality by design(QbD), the Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology combined with standard relation(SR) and analytic hierarchy process(AHP)-entropy weight method(EWM) was applied to optimize the extraction process of the classic prescription Yihuang Decoction. The content of geniposidic acid, phellodendrine hydrochloride, and berberine hydrochloride in Yihuang Decoction, the extract yield, and fingerprint similarity were used as the critical quality attributes(CQAs) of the extraction process. The extraction time, water addition, and extraction times were used as the critical process parameters(CPPs). After determining the levels of each factor and level through single-factor experiments, response surface experiments were designed according to the Box-Behnken principle, and the experimental results were analyzed. The SR between each sample and the reference sample under various evaluation indicators of different extraction parameters was calculated. The weights of the five evaluation indicators were determined using AHP-EWM, followed by comprehensive evaluation. A function model between CPPs and CQAs characterized by comprehensive scores was established to predict the optimal extraction process parameters. In the final comprehensive weight coefficients, the yield rate accounted for 43.1%, and the content of berberine hydrochloride, phellodendrine hydrochloride, and geniposidic acid accounted for 35.1%, 6.3%, and 15.5%, respectively. After comprehensive score analysis with SR, the established second-order polynomial model was statistically significant(P<0.01, and the lack of fit was not significant). The predicted optimal extraction conditions for Yihuang Decoction were determined as follows: 8-fold volume of water, extraction time of 1.5 h, and extraction once. The mean comprehensive score of the validation experiment was 85.77, with an RSD of 0.99%, and it met the quality control stan-dards for the reference sample of Yihuang Decoction. The results indicate that the optimized extraction process for Yihuang Decoction is stable and reliable, and the water extract is close in quality attributes to the reference sample. This can serve as a foundation for the research and development of granules in the future. Box-Behnken design-response surface methodology combined with SR and AHP-EWM can provide references for the modern extraction process research of other classic prescriptions.

A modified DRASTIC model for groundwater vulnerability assessment using connecting path and analytic hierarchy process methods

Groundwater plays a vital role in supporting water for the different needs of domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors, and its vulnerability assessment to pollution is a valuable tool for establishing protective and preventive management. DRASTIC is a well-known GIS-based model for assessing groundwater vulnerability to pollution, which uses seven parameters including depth-to-water level, net recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, the impact of the vadose zone, and hydraulic conductivity. The predefined weights of DRASTIC parameters have made a barrier to its applicability for different regions with different hydroclimatic conditions. To overcome this problem, it has been suggested to apply analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method for modifying the model by adjusting the weights of the parameters. AHP is a widely used method to elicit experts' judgments about different involving parameters through constructing pairwise comparison matrixes (PCMs). Since AHP calculates the weights by performing pairwise comparisons between the parameters, achieving consistent comparisons is difficult when the number of parameters increases. The objective of this research is to modify the DRASTIC model by integrating the connecting path method (CPM) and AHP. The proposed methodology involves asking experts to perform a number of pairwise comparisons between the parameters and then construct an incomplete PCM using the obtained information. To complete the missing values in the PCM, CPM is employed. The CPM is an effective approach that not only estimates missing judgments but also ensures minimal geometric consistency. The proposed method along with DRASTIC and pesticide DRASTIC models is applied to Khoy County, which is located in the northwest part of Iran. The efficiency of the proposed method was further confirmed through the results of the Pearson coefficient test conducted on nitrate concentrations. The test revealed correlation values of 0.47, 0.27, and 0.57 for DRASTIC, pesticide DRASTIC, and modified DRASTIC, respectively. These results demonstrated that the proposed method provides a more precise evaluation of groundwater vulnerability.

Identifying and prioritizing sustainability indicators for China's assessing demolition waste management using modified Delphi-analytic hierarchy process method

Addressing the sustainability issues arising from construction and demolition waste management (DWM) has gained little traction due to the lack of incentives, stringent regulations, and systematic guidance. This study aims to empower systematic decision-making concerning DWM alternative selection by developing a sustainability assessment framework by coupling a modified Delphi method with the multicriteria decision analysis technique. First, the study identifies a comprehensive inventory of indicators across three dimensions of sustainability in the context of DWM. Next, the study combines a modified Delphi method with the analytic hierarchy process to validate and prioritize the selected sustainability indicators. For the first time, insights regarding the DWM sustainability indicators from China's construction industry practitioners' perspectives are elicited using a mixed method comprising online semistructured interviews and two rounds of questionnaire surveys. Experts participating in the research are mostly based in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, where local governments exhaust all efforts in promoting carbon-neutral and sustainable development. The findings reveal that eight sustainability indicators were regarded as the determinants for the sustainability performance of DWM, with the global warming potential (32%), energy efficiency (16.1%) and land use (13.5%) receiving the highest preference scores (weights) based on the experts' judgment. Notably, the economic factors like the total cost (6.54%) appeared not highly prioritized by the local experts as typically did in the previous studies from developing countries.

Ranking Decision-Making Criteria for Early Adoption of Innovative Surgical Technologies

Importance

There is no decision-making framework in the early-adoption stage of novel surgical technologies, putting the quality of health care and resource allocation of the health care system at risk.

Objective

To investigate relevant weighted criteria that decision-makers may use to make an informed decision for the early adoption of innovative surgical technologies.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multi-institutional decision analytical modeling study used a mixed-methods multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) and had 2 phases. First, a panel of 12 experts validated decision criteria in the literature and identified additional criteria. Second, 33 Canadian experts prioritized the main criteria (domains) using the composition pairwise-comparison weight-elicitation method (analytical hierarchy process model) and ranked their subcriteria using the direct-ranking elicitation method (Likert scale). Data were analyzed, and response consistency was estimated using the consistency ratio. Analysis of variance was used to assess for significant differences between expert responses. The MCDA was conducted at McGill University between 2021 and 2023. Data were collected nationally by inviting experts in Canada.

Main Outcome and Measure

Criteria domain weights and subcriteria rankings. Priority vectors, which are priority scores analyzed and prioritized from expert responses, were used to rank criteria domains and subcriteria for decision-making on adopting new innovative surgical technologies.

Results

A total of 45 experts (33 male [73.3%] and 12 female [26.7%]) were invited with different levels of education (22 experts with MD or equivalent, 13 experts with master's degree, and 12 experts with PhD degree) and years of experience (4 experts with <10, 12 experts with 11-20, 18 experts with 21-30, and 11 experts with >30 years). Surgeon experts (23 individuals) were from all surgical disciplines, and nonsurgeon experts (22 individuals) were administrative officers in surgical device procurement, health technology assessment experts, and hospital directors. A total of 7 domains and 44 subcriteria were identified. The MCDA model found that clinical outcomes had the highest priority vector, at 0.429, followed by patients and public relevance (0.135). Hospital-specific criteria (priority vector, 0.099), technology-specific criteria (priority vector, 0.092), and physician-specific criteria (priority vector, 0.087) were the next most highly ranked. The lowest priority vectors were for economic criteria, at 0.083, and finally policies and procedures, at 0.075. There was consensus in the responses (consistency ratio = 0.006), and there were no statistically significant differences between expert responses.

Conclusions and relevance

This study weighted priority criteria domains in importance and established ranked subcriteria for decision-making of early adoption of surgical technologies. Putting these criteria into a framework may help surgeons and decision-makers make informed decisions for the early adoption of new surgical technologies.

Performance evaluation of rural water environment governance based on AHP: a case study of the Beitang River Basin

Rural water environment governance in China still lacks a systematic and comprehensive assessment protocol to help analyze and improve such governance performance. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was employed in this study to build a governance assessment system that integrates ecological conditions, water pollution control, and public satisfaction. To cover these topics, the assessment system is composed of an indicator layer that is customized to rural water environment governance in China. The Beitang River, located in the rural region of Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China, was presented as a case study. Field investigation provided raw data for this assessment. A questionnaire survey was conducted to interview local residents on the governance performance. An additional survey with executives who played major roles in the governance was performed to reconstruct a water environment assessment on the Beitang River prior to the governance, in order to highlight the effects of the governance through contrast. The results showed consistency in the questionnaire survey and the assessment system. The AHP assessment system was able to reflect the improvement in the water quality, river ecology, and residential welfare after the governance, and suggested limits and future directions in the following upgrade programs for the river basin.

Groundwater potential mapping in Trans Yamuna Region, Prayagraj, using combination of geospatial technologies and AHP method

In this study, the combination of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) was utilized to identify the Groundwater Potential Zones (GPZs) of the Trans-Yamuna region. The Groundwater Potential Zones (GPZ) were mapped by integrating drainage density, slope, geology, geomorphology, NDVI, lineament density, rainfall, soil types, land use & land cover, and topographic wetness index maps. For the prediction output to have a non-trivial degree of accuracy, multicollinearity tests were run before integrating the layers. Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), groundwater recharge-affecting parameters and classes of each parameter were scored. All thematic layers were integrated using weighted linear combination on a GIS platform to create a groundwater potential zone map. The outcomes of the model indicate that the research region exhibits three distinct groundwater potential zones, namely low (11.928%; 354.884 km2), moderate (76.44%; 2274.4 km2), and high (11.267%; 345.943 km2), in sequential sequence. These categories define the model's output in descending order of how closely it matches the actual conditions. After that, a map removal sensitivity analysis was also executed and found that geology, geomorphology, lineament density and drainage density strongly influence the prediction model for groundwater potential zone identification. The reliability of the results is established by employing a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve for evaluation, which demonstrates a prediction accuracy of 81.3%. Authorities responsible for groundwater resource management can use this study's findings to better inform future regulatory initiatives.

Determination and prioritization of factors affecting the occurrence of needle stick injuries among healthcare workers using techniques of Delphi and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP)

INTRODUCTION

Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are a major hazard in the workplace for healthcare workers. To prevent these injuries, it is essential to determine the important factors affecting the occurrence of them. This study aimed to identify, classify and prioritize these factors using techniques of Delphi and fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP).

METHODS

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2022. Firstly, the factors affecting the occurrence of needlestick injuries were identified by the literature review. Moreover, the Delphi technique was used to identify the factors. 20 experts (physicians, nurses, and occupational health experts) participated in the steps of the Delphi method. Then, these factors were grouped into six groups. In the next step, the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) was applied to prioritize the factors. For this purpose, the pairwise comparison questionnaire was designed and filled out by 20 experts. Finally, data were analyzed using MATLAB software (version 2018a).

RESULTS

42 factors (31 factors extracted from the literature review and 11 factors obtained from the Delphi technique) were identified in this study. These factors were categorized into six groups. Based on the results, the relative weight of non-demographic personal factors, tool and technology factors, job factors, organizational factors, demographic personal factors, and environmental factors were computed by 0.200, 0.185, 0.184, 0.157, 0.142, and 0.133, respectively.

CONCLUSION

These results determined the importance of the factors affecting the occurrence of needlestick injuries. These findings can be useful for planning preventive measures.

Assessing and overcoming the barriers for healthcare waste management in India: an integrated AHP and Fuzzy TOPSIS approach

PURPOSE

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the world faces different issues, and proper healthcare waste (HCW) treatment is one of them. If appropriate disposal of HCW is not performed, it will have hazardous effects on humanity. This paper has identified the significant barriers hindering the proper treatment of healthcare waste management (HCWM) with the strategies to overcome these barriers.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH

This paper has identified the significant barriers hindering the proper treatment of HCWM with the strategies to overcome these barriers, and different barriers are identified and categorized into organizational, waste handling, human resource and technical barriers. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) process is used to rank the barriers and sub-barriers. Then, the Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method evaluates the strategies for proper implementation of HCWM.

FINDINGS

The results show that organizational barriers are the most significant barrier, with a lack of coordination of hospitals with other authorities and no priority given to waste management issues as highly ranked barriers. The results of the Fuzzy TOPSIS method indicate that "Increase govt support and policies" and "Enhance training and awareness of employees" are the most feasible strategies to overcome these barriers for the successful implementation of HCWM.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

This study will be helpful in policy formulations for the proper treatment of HCW in an efficient manner. This paper helps to complete the research gap by providing the different characteristics of barriers.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE

This paper fills the research gap by expanding the limited knowledge in this field and providing further evidence on this phenomenon. The study also enables the distinctive characteristics of barriers to be understood within a particular context.

Prioritization of absent quarantine pests in Brazil through the Analytical Hierarchy Process

Introducing an Absent Quarantine Pest (AQP) can cause severe economic, social and environmental impacts, generating food insecurity. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method is an excellent tool for prioritizing APQs, allowing countries to better prepare against these threats. This study aimed to determine which AQPs should be prioritized in Brazil. For this, 20 AQPs were selected from the Brazilian official list. The selection was based on pests intercepted by Brazil between 2015 and 2018 and by countries of the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, in the international movement of plants. It can be concluded that out of the 20 AQPs studied, 17 are the priority and that the AHP method is effective for this purpose. Other countries from different continents can use this methodology to prioritize PQAs and thus create strategic plans to prevent entry into their territories and economic, social, and environmental impacts.

Ranking the Critical Success Factors for Hospital Information Systems Using a Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process

The design, development, and maintenance of hospital information systems face major challenges, which ultimately cause failures of these information systems. This study aimed to identify and rank critical success factors for hospital information systems by applying a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. Potential critical success factors that could contribute to the success of hospital information systems were identified and extracted through a systematic review of the relevant studies. A questionnaire containing the critical success factors was designed and distributed to 250 hospital information system professionals. The hierarchical structure of the critical success factors was defined by using an exploratory factor analysis, and pairwise comparison matrices of the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process model were designed based on the identified factor structure. As a result, 50 potential critical success factors were extracted from 21 articles, and their content validity and face validity were assessed by the experts. Based on the exploratory factor analysis results, 36 critical success factors were classified into seven dimensions: organizational fitness, user-friendliness, maintainability, portability, productivity, reliability, and organizational and external support. The fuzzy analytical hierarchy process results indicated that reliability, user-friendliness, and organizational fitness (with 20.3, 19.9, and 18 points, respectively) had the greatest impact on the success of hospital information systems. The findings revealed that managers and policymakers should consider these critical success factors in designing and developing hospital information systems.

[Identification of quality markers of Gei Herba based on analytic hierarchy process-entropy weight method and network pharmacology]

Analytic hierarchy process(AHP)-entropy weight method(EWM) and network pharmacology were employed to identify the potential quality markers(Q-markers) of Gei Herba. According to the new concept of Q-markers in traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), the AHP-EWM was applied to quantitatively identify the Q-markers of Gei Herba. The AHP was used for the weight analysis of primary indicators(factor layer), and the EWM for the analysis of literature and experimental data of secondary indicators(control layer). In addition, network pharmacology was employed to build the "component-target-disease-efficacy" network for Gei Herba, and the components showing strong associations with the Qi-replenishing, spleen-invigorating, blood-tonifying, Yin-nourishing, lung-moistening, and phlegm-resolving effects of Gei Herba were screened out. According to the results of AHP-EWM and network pharmacology, four components, i.e., ellagic acid, gallic acid, gemin G, and gemin C, were finally identified as potential Q-markers of Gei Herba. In this study, the AHP-EWM and network pharmacology were employed to screen the Q-markers of Gei Herba, which provided ideas for the quantitative evaluation and identification of Q-markers of TCM.

[Construction of a schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment system in Wuhan City based on analytic hierarchy process]

OBJECTIVE

To construct a schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment system in Wuhan City and preliminary evaluate its application effect, so as to promote the rational allocation of schistosomiasis control resources and accelerate the progress towards schistosomiasis elimination.

METHODS

The schistosomiasis risk assessment indicators were collected through referring schistosomiasis surveillance data of Wuhan City from 2014 to 2020, literature review and expert interviews. Indicators within each criterion and sub-criterion were screened using the Delphi method, and a hierarchical structure model was created based on analytic hierarchy process. Quantitative assignment of each indicator was conducted according to relative importance, and the weight and combination weight of each criterion were calculated in each analytic hierarchy framework to create a schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment system, which was used for the schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment in 12 national schistosomiasis surveillance sites in Wuhan City.

RESULTS

A three-level schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment system was preliminarily constructed, which included a target layer, 5 criterion layers and 21 sub-criterion layers. Of all indicators in the criterion layer, transmission route had the highest weight (0.433), followed by source of Schistosoma japonicum infection (0.294); and among all indicators in the sub-criterion layer, S. japonicum infection in Oncomelania hupensis and sentinel mice had the highest combination weight (0.125), followed by prevalence of S. japonicum infection in humans (0.091) and bovines (0.053), snail control by chemical treatment (0.049), positive rate of inquiry examinations (0.048), allocation of schistosomiasis control professionals (0.045), and areas of submerged snail-infested settings (0.041). Of the 12 national schistosomiasis surveillance sites in Wuhan City, there were 5 sites with weights of > 0.8, 4 sites with weights of 0.6 to 0.8, and 3 sites with weights of < 0.6 in 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

A schistosomiasis transmission risk assessment system has been constructed based on analytic hierarchy process in Wuhan City, which may provide a evidence-based basis for health resource allocation and decision-making for schistosomiasis control.

The development and application of a two-step surveillance process for Healthy China Initiative based on wide coverage interagency data

BACKGROUND

Healthy China is a nationwide health strategy aiming at improving health from diverse dimensions, and strengthening high-quality assessment is essential for its stimulation. However, there is limited evidence in the surveillance of the actual performance of the initiative at regional levels. This study innovatively proposes a two-step surveillance process which comprehensively monitors Healthy China Initiative based on regional realities, thus provides guidance for policymaking.

METHODS

A flexible indicator system was firstly developed basing on Delphi survey and focus group discussions. And then the Analysis Hierarchical Process and the TOPSIS method were used to determine the weights of indicators and calculate comprehensive indexes as the surveillance outcomes. A pilot study was conducted in a typical area in China to verify the applicability of the process.

RESULTS

Following the surveillance process and basing on the implementation of Healthy China Initiative in the target region, an indicator system comprised of 5 domains and 23 indicators with weights was first developed specifically for the pilot area. Then 1848 interagency data of the study area were collected from 8 provincial institutions/departments to calculate the indexes and ranks of the five domains which were health level, healthy living, disease prevention and control, health service, and healthy environment. The outcomes showed that Healthy China Initiative in the pilot area had been constantly improved since the strategy proposed, while there were still issues to be tackled such as the deficient monitoring mechanisms and unevenly development progress.

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposed a pragmatic surveillance process with indicators which could be tailored for specific context of target regions and produce meaningful surveillance outcomes to inform decision-making for policymakers, and also provided a theoretical foundation as well as empirical evidence for further health strategies and plannings assessment studies.

Assessing and prioritizing biogas barriers to alleviate energy poverty in Pakistan: an integrated AHP and G-TOPSIS model

Biogas is a promising renewable technology to alleviate energy poverty. Pakistan has a capacity of 5 million bio digesters that can be installed in different farming areas. However, this target has never been achieved because many barriers hamper the biogas industry development. In previous studies, some researchers have indicated these barriers in different geographical contexts: however, these barriers are rarely examined in Pakistan. To fulfill the research gap, this study prioritizes potential barriers. Using a literature review and a modified Delphi technique, we identify 25 sub-barriers and catalog them into 5 main categories. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) prioritizes the main barriers and sub-barriers based on potential. Grey Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (G-TOPSIS) ranks the practical alternatives to combat these barriers. The study findings specify that the "financial barrier" is the top-ranked barrier among the main categories, followed by technical, socio-cultural, institutional and administrative, and environmental barriers. The overall ranking shows that the "high starting price tag" is ranked first among all sub-barriers in all categories. It has been proposed that "appropriate financial incentives" and "promotion of customized technology" would be feasible alternative solutions to combat the issues. Based on the research findings, some policy recommendations were suggested for biogas uptake in Pakistan. This study may assist policymakers, stakeholders, and government institutions in accelerating the potential of biogas energy to alleviate energy poverty in rural areas of Pakistan.

Application of geographical information system-based analytical hierarchy process modeling for flood susceptibility mapping of Krishna District in Andhra Pradesh

Flooding is one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in terms of provoking socio-economic losses. The current study is to foster a flood susceptibility map of Krishna District in Andhra Pradesh (AP) through integrating remote sensing data, geographical information system (GIS), and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Eleven factors, including elevation, slope, aspect, land use/land cover (LULC), drainage density, topographic wetness index, stream power index, lithology, soil, precipitation, and distance from the streams, are considered for identifying and evaluating the spatial distribution of critical flood-susceptible regions. Thematic maps of different factors were derived in GIS using remote sensing data obtained from Sentinel-2A (satellite sensor), shuttle radar topography mission digital elevation model (SRTM DEM v3), and other scientific data products. An analytical hierarchy process is a mathematical approach for decision support, primarily based on the weight and rank of different causative factors. AHP technique is implemented for flood hazard modeling and ascertaining the Flood Hazard Index (FHI) to produce a flood susceptibility map. Different thematic maps weighed with the AHP framework are combined using overlay analysis to produce the flood susceptibility map of the study region. The outcomes of the study demonstrate the potential of GIS and AHP in providing a premise to recognize the vulnerable areas that are susceptible to flood. According to the findings, the Flood Hazard Index is 42% and the study region is classified into very high, high, moderate, low, and very low susceptible, respectively. Following that, historical flood data was used to validate the accuracy of the generated flood susceptibility map. This shows that a maximum of 90% of the data points are within floodplain.