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Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are a kind of artificial neural network designed to extract features and find out patterns for tasks such as segmentation, recognizing objects, and drawing up classification. Within a CNNs architecture, pooling operations are used until the number of parameters and the computational complexity are reduced. Numerous papers have focused on investigating the impact of pooling on the performance of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), leading to the development of various pooling models. Recently, a fuzzy pooling operation based on type-1 fuzzy sets was introduced to cope with the local imprecision of the feature maps. However, in fuzzy set theory, it is not always accurate to assume that the degree of non-membership of an element in a fuzzy set is simply the complement of the degree of membership. This is due to the potential existence of a hesitation degree, which implies a certain level of uncertainty. To overcome this limitation, intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFS) were introduced to incorporate the concept of a degree of hesitation. In this paper, we introduce a novel pooling operation based on intuitionistic fuzzy sets to incorporate the degree of hesitation heretofore neglected by a fuzzy pooling operation based on classical fuzzy sets, and we investigate its performance in the context of image classification. Intuitionistic pooling is performed in four steps: bifuzzification (by the transformation of data through the use of membership and non-membership maps), first aggregation (through the transformation of the IFS into a standard fuzzy set, second aggregation (through the transformation and use of a sum operator), and the defuzzification of feature map neighborhoods by using a max operator. IFS pooling is used for the construction of an intuitionistic pooling layer that can be applied as a drop-in replacement for the current, fuzzy (type-1) and crisp, pooling layers of CNN architectures. Various experiments involving multiple datasets demonstrate that an IFS-based pooling can enhance the classification performance of a CNN. A benchmarking study reveals that this significantly outperforms even the most recent pooling models, especially in stochastic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many papers have been devoted to applying fuzzy sets to algebraic structures. In this paper, based on ideals, we investigate residuated lattices from fuzzy set theory, lattice theory, and coding theory points of view, and some applications of fuzzy sets in residuated lattices are presented. Since ideals are important concepts in the theory of algebraic structures used for formal fuzzy logic, first, we investigate the lattice of fuzzy ideals in residuated lattices and study some connections between fuzzy sets associated to ideals and Hadamard codes. Finally, we present applications of fuzzy sets in coding theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors' previously published research delved into the theory of software product quality modelling, model views, concepts, and terminologies. They also analysed this specific field from the point of view of uncertainty, and possible descriptions based on fuzzy set theory and fuzzy logic. Laying a theoretical foundation was necessary; however, software professionals need a more tangible and practical approach for their everyday work. Consequently, the authors devote this paper to filling in this gap; it aims to illustrate how to interpret and utilise the previous findings, including the established taxonomy of the software product quality models. The developed fuzzy model's simplification is also presented with a Generalized Additive Model approximation. The paper does not require any formal knowledge of uncertainty computations and reasoning under uncertainty, nor does it need a deep understanding of quality modelling in terms of terminology, concepts, and meta-models, which were necessary to prepare the taxonomy and relevance ranking. The paper investigates how to determine the validity of statements based on a given software product quality model; moreover, it considers how to tailor and adjust quality models to the particular project's needs. The paper also describes how to apply different software product quality models for different quality views to take advantage of the automation potential offered for the measurement and assessment of source code quality. Furthermore, frequent pitfalls are illustrated with their corresponding resolutions, including an unmeasured quality property that is found to be important and needs to be included in the measurement and assessment process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex network in reality contains a large amount of information, but some information cannot be obtained accurately or is missing due to various reasons. An uncertain complex network is an effective mathematical model to deal with this problem, but its related research is still in its infancy. In order to facilitate the research into uncertainty theory in complex network modeling, this paper summarizes and analyzes the research hotspots of set pair analysis, rough set theory and fuzzy set theory in complex network modeling. This paper firstly introduces three kinds of uncertainty theories: the basic definition of set pair analysis, rough sets and fuzzy sets, as well as their basic theory of modeling in complex networks. Secondly, we aim at the three uncertainty theories and the establishment of specific models. The latest research progress in complex networks is reviewed, and the main application fields of the three uncertainty theories are discussed, respectively: community discovery, link prediction, influence maximization and decision-making problems. Finally, the prospect of the modeling and development of uncertain complex networks is put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a commonly used model in reliability analysis, the inverse Weibull distribution (IWD) is widely applied in various scientific fields. This paper considers the reliability estimation of the IWD based on intuitionistic fuzzy lifetime data. Firstly, the related concepts of the fuzzy set theory are reviewed, and the concepts of the intuitionistic fuzzy conditional density, intuitionistic fuzzy likelihood function, and intuitionistic fuzzy conditional expectation are obtained by extension. In classical estimations, the maximum likelihood estimators of parameters and reliability are derived. Due to the nonlinearity, the EM algorithm is used to obtain the maximum likelihood estimates. In the Bayesian estimation, the gamma prior is selected, and the Bayesian estimation of the parameters and reliability is conducted under the symmetric entropy and the scale square error loss function, respectively. Since the integrals are complicated, the Lindley approximation is used to approximate the Bayesian estimates. Then, the performance of these estimators is evaluated by the Monte Carlo simulation. The simulation results show that the Bayesian estimation is more suitable than the maximum likelihood estimation for the reliability estimation. Finally, a set of real data is used to prove the effectiveness of these proposed methods. Through these methods, the reliability of the intuitive fuzzy life data is accurately estimated, which provides an important reference for the reliability analysis in the scientific field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past century, there has been a dramatic increasing interest in the multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) technique, with a considerable amount of studies published regarding it. One of the well-known approaches in the MCGDM paradigm is Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The integration of the TOPSIS method with fuzzy set theory has proven to be successful in various applications. Recently, a wide array of publications has proposed implementing a type-2 fuzzy set with TOPSIS. However, the additional degree of uncertainty represented by type 2 has largely been ignored, especially in a few specific mathematical operations in the model. We propose constructing interval type-2 fuzzy membership functions (IT2 MFs) using interval-based data gathered from a survey, where this is used to generate a new scale to represent ratings for each alternative. This procedure utilized all information gathered from decision makers. In addition, we present a complete algorithm for TOPSIS based on IT2 fuzzy sets (IT2 FSs) which preserve the interval-based form output. The output in the form of intervals offers decision makers (DMs) with more detailed information, enabling them to make more nuanced decisions. This can include cautious decisions when intervals are wider and overlapping. Although understanding the exact meaning of these intervals and their widths in a decision-making context is challenging, this paper introduces a systematic method for connecting input uncertainty to output uncertainty in the TOPSIS technique. This approach establishes a solid foundation for future research. Thus far, no other researchers have suggested a data-driven method that combines TOPSIS with fuzzification and provides intervals as the final output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is related to notions adapted from fuzzy set theory to the field of complex analysis, namely fuzzy differential subordinations. This work aims to present new fuzzy differential subordinations for which the fuzzy best dominant and fuzzy best subordinate are given, respectively. The original theorems proved in the paper generate interesting corollaries for particular choices of functions acting as fuzzy best dominant. Here, in this article, fuzzy differential subordination results are obtained using a new integral operator introduced in this paper for meromorphic function, such that the newly-defined integral operator is starlike and convex, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fuzzy differential subordination concept was introduced in 2011, generalizing the concept of differential subordination following a recent trend of adapting fuzzy sets theory to other already-established theories. A prolific tool in obtaining new results related to operators is the fractional integral applied to different functions. The fractional integral of the confluent hypergeometric function was previously investigated using means of the classical theory of subordination. In this paper, we give new applications of this function using the theory of fuzzy differential subordination. Fuzzy differential subordinations are established and their best dominants are also provided. Corollaries are written using particular functions, in which the conditions for the univalence of the fractional integral of the confluent hypergeometric function are given. An example is constructed as a specific application of the results obtained in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuzzy set theory, introduced by Zadeh, gives an adaptable and logical solution to the provocation of introducing, evaluating, and opposing numerous sustainability scenarios. The results described in this article use the fuzzy set concept embedded into the theories of differential subordination and superordination from the geometric function theory. In 2011, fuzzy differential subordination was defined as an extension of the classical notion of differential subordination, and in 2017, the dual concept of fuzzy differential superordination appeared. These dual notions are applied in this paper regarding the fractional integral applied to Dziok–Srivastava operator. New fuzzy differential subordinations are proved using known lemmas, and the fuzzy best dominants are established for the obtained fuzzy differential subordinations. Dual results regarding fuzzy differential superordinations are proved for which the fuzzy best subordinates are shown. These are the first results that link the fractional integral applied to Dziok–Srivastava operator to fuzzy theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Z-number is very powerful in describing imperfect information, in which fuzzy numbers are paired such that the partially reliable information is properly processed. During a decision-making process, human beings always use natural language to describe their preferences, and the decision information is usually imprecise and partially reliable. The nature of the Z-number, which is composed of the restriction and reliability components, has made it a powerful tool for depicting certain decision information. Its strengths and advantages have attracted many researchers worldwide to further study and extend its theory and applications. The current research trend on Z-numbers has shown an increasing interest among researchers in the fuzzy set theory, especially its application to decision making. This paper reviews the application of Z-numbers in decision making, in which previous decision-making models based on Z-numbers are analyzed to identify their strengths and contributions. The decision making based on Z-numbers improves the reliability of the decision information and makes it more meaningful. Another scope that is closely related to decision making, namely, the ranking of Z-numbers, is also reviewed. Then, the evaluative analysis of the Z-numbers is conducted to evaluate the performance of Z-numbers in decision making. Future directions and recommendations on the applications of Z-numbers in decision making are provided at the end of this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing urgency for sustainable development and energy transition, decision-makers face complex challenges in evaluating and prioritizing viable alternatives. Traditional decision-making techniques often struggle to capture the inherent uncertainty and imprecision associated with the latest sustainable energy transition issues. This paper presents a research framework based on fuzzy set theory and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method to address these complexities and uncertainties. Our proposed approach offers a comprehensive evaluation and ranking of alternatives for sustainable energy transition. To demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of this system, we employ a case study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). As a global leader in fossil fuel production and export, particularly oil, the KSA has recognized the need to address climate change and diversify its energy sector. By leveraging the fuzzy TOPSIS-based framework, we provide decision-makers with a powerful tool to navigate the challenges and uncertainties involved in the energy transition process. This research yields promising results, demonstrating the superior capabilities of the proposed fuzzy TOPSIS-based framework compared to traditional decision-making techniques. The case study in the KSA highlights how our approach effectively captures and addresses the uncertainties and complexities involved in sustainable energy transition decision making. Through comprehensive evaluations and rankings, decision-makers gain valuable insights into alternative solutions, facilitating informed and strategic decision-making processes. Our research contributes to sustainable energy transitions by introducing a robust decision-making framework that integrates fuzzy set theory and the TOPSIS method. Based on the fuzzy TOPSIS-based evaluation, the research findings indicate that solar energy (EA1) ranked as the most favourable alternative among the evaluated options for the sustainable energy transition in the KSA. Using our framework, stakeholders in the KSA and similar contexts can make informed decisions to accelerate their energy transition efforts and achieve sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zadeh's fuzzy set theory offers a logical, adaptable solution to the challenge of defining, assessing and contrasting various sustainability scenarios. The results presented in this paper use the fuzzy set concept embedded into the theories of differential subordination and superordination established and developed in geometric function theory. As an extension of the classical concept of differential subordination, fuzzy differential subordination was first introduced in geometric function theory in 2011. In order to generalize the idea of fuzzy differential superordination, the dual notion of fuzzy differential superordination was developed later, in 2017. The two dual concepts are applied in this article making use of the previously introduced operator defined as the convolution product of the generalized Sălgean operator and the Ruscheweyh derivative. Using this operator, a new subclass of functions, normalized analytic in U, is defined and investigated. It is proved that this class is convex, and new fuzzy differential subordinations are established by applying known lemmas and using the functions from the new class and the aforementioned operator. When possible, the fuzzy best dominants are also indicated for the fuzzy differential subordinations. Furthermore, dual results involving the theory of fuzzy differential superordinations and the convolution operator are established for which the best subordinants are also given. Certain corollaries obtained by using particular convex functions as fuzzy best dominants or fuzzy best subordinants in the proved theorems and the numerous examples constructed both for the fuzzy differential subordinations and for the fuzzy differential superordinations prove the applicability of the new theoretical results presented in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, our aim is to study the following fuzzy system: x n + 1 = A x n − 1 x n − 2 + B x n − 3 D + C x n − 4 ,   n = 0 , 1 , 2 , ⋯ , where { x n } is a sequence of positive fuzzy numbers and the initial conditions x − 4 , x − 3 , x − 2 , x − 1 , x 0 and the parameters A , B , C , D are positive fuzzy numbers. Firstly, the existence and uniqueness of positive fuzzy solutions of the fuzzy system are proved. Secondly, the dynamic behavior of the equilibrium points for the fuzzy system are studied by means of the fuzzy sets theory, linearization method and mathematical induction. Finally, the results obtained in this paper are simulated by using the software package MATLAB 2016, and the numerical results not only show the dynamic behavior of the solutions for the fuzzy system, but also verify the effectiveness of the proposed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the hesitant fuzzy set theory has been used as a main tool to describe the hesitant fuzzy phenomenon, which usually exists in multiple attributes of decision making. However, in the general case concerning numerous decision-making problems, values of attributes are real numbers, and some decision makers are hesitant about these values. Consequently, the possibility of taking a number contains several possible values in the real number interval [0, 1]. As a result, the hesitant possibility of hesitant fuzzy events cannot be inferred from the given hesitant fuzzy set which only presents the hesitant membership degree with respect to an element belonging to this one. To address this problem, this paper explores the axiomatic system of the hesitant possibility measure from which the hesitant fuzzy theory is constructed. Firstly, a hesitant possibility measure from the pattern space to the power set of [0, 1] is defined, and some properties of this measure are discussed. Secondly, a hesitant fuzzy variable, which is a symmetric set-valued function on the hesitant possibility measure space, is proposed, and the distribution of this variable and one of its functions are studied. Finally, two examples are shown in order to explain the practical applications of the hesitant fuzzy variable in the hesitant fuzzy graph model and decision-making considering hesitant fuzzy attributes. The relevant research results of this paper provide an important mathematical tool for hesitant fuzzy information processing from another new angle different from the theory of hesitant fuzzy sets, and can be utilized to solve decision problems in light of the hesitant fuzzy value of multiple attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, four different intuitionistic fuzzy temporal topological structures are introduced, and some of their properties are discussed. These topological structures are based on the intuitionistic fuzzy topological operators and on the temporal intuitionistic fuzzy topological operators, which exist in intuitionistic fuzzy sets theory. The new structures are direct extensions of the IFTSs and will be the basis for introducing of a new type of topological structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many of the new M V -valued fuzzy structures, including intuitionistic, neutrosophic, or fuzzy soft sets, can be transformed into so-called almost M V -valued fuzzy sets, or, equivalently, fuzzy sets with values in dual pair of semirings (in symbols, (R , R *) -fuzzy sets). This transformation allows any construction of almost M V -valued fuzzy sets to be retransformed into an analogous construction for these new fuzzy structures. In that way, approximation theories for (R , R *) -fuzzy sets, rough (R , R *) -fuzzy sets theories, or F-transform theories for (R , R *) -fuzzy sets have already been created and then retransformed for these new fuzzy structures. In this paper, we continue this trend and define, on the one hand, the theory of extensional (R , R *) -fuzzy sets defined on sets with fuzzy similarity relations with values in dual pair of semirings and power sets functors related to this theory and, at the same time, the theory of cuts with relational morphisms of these structures. Illustratively, the reverse transformations of some of these concepts into new fuzzy structures are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The notion of a linear diophantine fuzzy set as a generalization of a fuzzy set is a mathematical approach that deals with vagueness in decision-making problems. The use of reference parameters associated with validity and non-validity functions in linear diophantine fuzzy sets makes it more applicable to model vagueness in many real-life problems. On the other hand, subspaces of vector spaces are of great importance in many fields of science. The aim of this paper is to combine the two notions. In this regard, we consider the linear diophantine fuzzification of a vector space by introducing and studying the linear diophantine fuzzy subspaces of a vector space. First, we studied the behaviors of linear diophantine fuzzy subspaces of a vector space under a linear diophantine fuzzy set. Second, and by means of the level sets, we found a relationship between the linear diophantine fuzzy subspaces of a vector space and the subspaces of a vector space. Finally, we discuss the linear diophantine fuzzy subspaces of a quotient vector space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific progression has allowed researchers to develop novel and innovative ways to deal with uncertainty in data, allowing for the development of more precise and accurate data representation models. This paper aims to extend an already reported concept of Cubic Pythagorean fuzzy set to Cubic Pythagorean Fuzzy Soft Set (C P F S s) as it incorporates both interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy sets (IVPFS) and Pythagorean fuzzy sets (PFS) at the same time, providing a more targeted approach to deal with uncertainty. This hybrid structure can better handle data in comparison to the ones in the literature by having the characteristics of PFS and soft sets, leading to a more targeted approach to handle attributes in decision-making studies. In this study, we defined various internals and externals of C P F S s , set operators, aggregation operators, and developed an algorithm based on distance measures for ( C P F S s ), which are applied in a disease diagnostic decision-making problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing ambiguous and asymmetric types of information is a very challenging task under the consideration of classical data. Furthermore, Aczel-Alsina aggregation operators are the new developments in fuzzy sets theory. However, when decision-makers need to use these structures in fuzzy rough structures, these operators fail to deal with such types of values, as fuzzy rough structures use lower and upper approximation spaces. Thus, an encasement of an intuitionistic fuzzy set has a chance of data loss, whereas an intuitionistic fuzzy rough set can resolve the problem of data loss. Motivated by the notion of intuitionistic fuzzy rough sets and new aggregation operators i.e., intuitionistic fuzzy Aczel-Alsina operators, this paper firstly initiates some basic Aczel-Alsina operational rules for intuitionistic fuzzy rough numbers. Secondly, based on these newly defined operational rules, we have developed some new aggregation operators, such as intuitionistic fuzzy rough Aczel-Alsina weighted average (IFRAAWA), intuitionistic fuzzy rough Aczel-Alsina ordered weighted average (IFRAAOWA), and intuitionistic fuzzy rough Aczel-Alsina hybrid average (IFRAAHA) aggregation operators. Moreover, the properties of these aggregation operators have been initiated. These operators can help in evaluating awkward and asymmetric information in real-life problems. The use of aggregation operators in medical diagnosis and MADM is an efficient method that can help in healthcare and decision-making applications. To present an effective use of these developed operators in medical diagnosis and the selection of the best next-generation firewall, we have established an algorithm along with a numerical example to provide authenticity and clarity to the established work. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of the introduced work shows the superiority of the introduced approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, several real-world decision-making problems concerning falling economies, power crises, depleting resources, etc., require efficient decision-making. To solve such problems, researchers proposed several hybrid models by combining the spherical fuzzy sets with other theories, such as spherical fuzzy soft sets, which is an efficient tool to deal with the uncertainties concerning positive, neutral, and negative memberships in the soft environment. However, all the existing hybridizations of spherical fuzzy sets fail to deal with information symmetrically in a bipolar soft environment. Accordingly, this paper presents a novel hybrid model called spherical fuzzy bipolar soft sets (SFBSSs) by fusing spherical fuzzy sets and bipolar soft sets, considering the opposite sets of parameters in symmetry. An example considering the selection of a chief management officer (CMO) for a multi-national company illustrates the proposed model in detail. In addition, some symmetric properties and algebraic operations of the initiated model, including subset, complement, relative null SFBSSs, relative absolute SFBSSs, extended union, extended intersection, restricted union, restricted intersection, AND, and OR operations, are discussed and illustrated via numerical examples. Further, some fundamental results, namely, commutativity, associativity, distribution, and De Morgan's laws are presented for SFBSSs. Moreover, by considering the massive impact of hydropower in combating the energy crisis and possible dangers to fish migration, a multi-attribute decision-making problem concerning the ranking of downstream fish passage designs for a hydroelectric project is modeled and solved under the developed algorithm based on SFBSSs. Finally, a comparative analysis discusses the supremacy of the initiated model over its building blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased demand for this form of food delivery has been expected to drastically alter restaurant patrons' dining habits. As people have been forced to stay indoors to prevent the virus from spreading, food delivery services over the internet are in high demand. As established in this study, the planned ideal is a good executive implementation for online meal delivery services. Food delivery services are rapidly growing in India, opening up several opportunities for a wide range of online food delivery (OFD) platforms while also generating a competitive commercial sector. Following that, the fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution method (FTOPSIS) is used to rank online food delivery (OFD) enterprises based on the characteristics chosen. In this paper, we study the present multi-criteria decision-analysis (MCDA) paradigm based on the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and the fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) method to achieve the goal. After that, a hierarchy multiple criteria decision-analysis (MCDA) model based on fuzzy sets theory is introduced to deal with the online food delivery Service in the chain system. The fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is a fuzzy set theory technique for generating criteria weights, which are then used to interpret expert phonological evaluation statements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we apply the concept of linear Diophantine fuzzy sets in B C K / B C I -algebras. In this respect, the notions of linear Diophantine fuzzy subalgebras and linear Diophantine fuzzy (commutative) ideals are introduced and some vital properties are discussed. Additionally, characterizations of linear Diophantine fuzzy subalgebras and linear Diophantine fuzzy (commutative) ideals are considered. Moreover, the associated results for linear Diophantine fuzzy subalgebras, linear Diophantine fuzzy ideals and linear Diophantine fuzzy commutative ideals are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theory of finitely supported structures is used for dealing with very large sets having a certain degree of symmetry. This framework generalizes the classical set theory of Zermelo-Fraenkel by allowing infinitely many basic elements with no internal structure (atoms) and by equipping classical sets with group actions of the permutation group over these basic elements. On the other hand, soft sets represent a generalization of the fuzzy sets to deal with uncertainty in a parametric manner. In this paper, we study the soft sets in the new framework of finitely supported structures, associating to any crisp set a family of atoms describing it. We prove some finiteness properties for infinite soft sets, some order properties and Tarski-like fixed point results for mappings between soft sets with atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zadeh's fuzzy set theory for imprecise or vague data has been followed by other successful models, inclusive of Molodtsov's soft set theory and hybrid models like fuzzy soft sets. Their success has been backed up by applications to many branches like engineering, medicine, or finance. In continuation of this effort, the purpose of this paper is to put forward a versatile methodology for the valuation of goods, particularly the assessment of real state properties. In order to reach this target, we develop the concept of (partial) valuation fuzzy soft set and introduce the novel problem of data filling in partial valuation fuzzy soft sets. The use of fuzzy soft sets allows us to quantify the qualitative attributes involved in an assessment context. As a result, we illustrate the effectiveness and validity of our valuation methodology with a real case study that uses data from the Spanish real estate market. The main contribution of this paper is the implementation of a novel methodology, which allows us to assess a large variety of assets where data are heterogeneous. Our technique permits to avoid the appraiser's subjectivity (exhibited by practitioners in housing valuation) and the well-known disadvantages of some alternative methods (such as linear multiple regression). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-objective bi-matrix game model based on fuzzy goals is established in this paper. It is shown that the equilibrium solution of such a game model problem can be translated into the optimal solution of a multi-objective, non-linear programming problem. Finally, the results of this paper are demonstrated through a numerical example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we use the fundamental idea of the incremental model (IM) and develop the design framework. The design method of IM is composed of two steps. In the first step, we perform a linear regression (LR) as the global model. In the second step, the errors obtained by the global model are predicted by fuzzy if-then rules generated through a local linguistic model. Although the effectiveness of IM has been demonstrated in various prediction examples, we propose an improved incremental model (IIM) to deal with complex nonlinear characteristics. For this purpose, we employ adaptive neuro-fuzzy networks (ANFN) or radial basis function networks (RBFN) to create local granular networks in the design of IIM. Furthermore, we use quadratic regression (QR) as a global model, because linear relationship of LR may not hold in many settings. Numerical studies concern four datasets (automobile data, energy efficiency data, Boston housing data and computer hardware data). The experimental results demonstrate that IIM outperformed the previous models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers linear programming problems (LPPs) where the objective functions involve discrete fuzzy random variables (fuzzy set-valued discrete random variables). New decision making models, which are useful in fuzzy stochastic environments, are proposed based on both possibility theory and probability theory. In multi-objective cases, Pareto optimal solutions of the proposed models are newly defined. Computational algorithms for obtaining the Pareto optimal solutions of the proposed models are provided. It is shown that problems involving discrete fuzzy random variables can be transformed into deterministic nonlinear mathematical programming problems which can be solved through a conventional mathematical programming solver under practically reasonable assumptions. A numerical example of agriculture production problems is given to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed models to real-world problems in fuzzy stochastic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In support of reasoning with sparse rule bases, fuzzy rule interpolation (FRI) offers a helpful inference mechanism for deriving an approximate conclusion when a given observation has no overlap with any rule in the existing rule base. One of the recent and popular FRI approaches is the scale and move transformation-based rule interpolation, known as T-FRI in the literature. It supports both interpolation and extrapolation with multiple multi-antecedent rules. However, the difficult problem of defining the precise-valued membership functions required in the representation of fuzzy rules, or of the observations, restricts its applications. Fortunately, this problem can be alleviated through the use of type-2 fuzzy sets, owing to the fact that the membership functions of such fuzzy sets are themselves fuzzy, providing a more flexible means of modelling. This paper therefore, extends the existing T-FRI approach using interval type-2 fuzzy sets, which covers the original T-FRI as its specific instance. The effectiveness of this extension is demonstrated by experimental investigations and, also, by a practical application in comparison to the state-of-the-art alternative approach developed using rough-fuzzy sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classical matrix theory is deficient to express the vagueness of the real life. The fuzzy set theory has been successfully applied to bridge this gap. Much work has already been done on a two-person zero sum matrix game with fuzzy goals. In continuation, this paper is dedicated to define and study a multi-criteria two-person zero sum game with intuitionistic fuzzy goals. It is shown that solving such games is equivalent to solving two crisp multi object linear programming problems. Our work generalizes the previous study on a multi-criteria game with fuzzy goals by adopting the approach of linear programming with intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Finally, an illustrative numerical example is provided to elaborate the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processing of a sparse matrix is a hot topic in the recommendation system. This paper applies the method of hesitant fuzzy set to study the sparse matrix processing problem. Based on the uncertain factors in the recommendation process, this paper applies hesitant fuzzy set theory to characterize the historical ratings embedded in the recommendation system and studies the data processing problem of the sparse matrix under the condition of a hesitant fuzzy set. The key is to transform the similarity problem of products in the sparse matrix into the similarity problem of two hesitant fuzzy sets by data conversion, data processing, and data complement. This paper further considers the influence of the difference of user ratings on the recommendation results and obtains a user's recommendation list. On the one hand, the proposed method effectively solves the matrix in the recommendation system; on the other hand, it provides a feasible method for calculating similarity in the recommendation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is related to notions adapted from fuzzy set theory to the field of complex analysis, namely fuzzy differential subordinations. Using the ideas specific to geometric function theory from the field of complex analysis, fuzzy differential subordination results are obtained using a new integral operator introduced in this paper using the well-known confluent hypergeometric function, also known as the Kummer hypergeometric function. The new hypergeometric integral operator is defined by choosing particular parameters, having as inspiration the operator studied by Miller, Mocanu and Reade in 1978. Theorems are stated and proved, which give corollary conditions such that the newly-defined integral operator is starlike, convex and close-to-convex, respectively. The example given at the end of the paper proves the applicability of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to exploit the incredible variety of JSON data sets currently available on the Internet, for example, on Open Data portals? The traditional approach would require getting them from the portals, then storing them into some JSON document store and integrating them within the document store. However, once data are integrated, the lack of a query language that provides flexible querying capabilities could prevent analysts from successfully completing their analysis. In this paper, we show how the J-CO Framework, a novel framework that we developed at the University of Bergamo (Italy) to manage large collections of JSON documents, is a unique and innovative tool that provides analysts with querying capabilities based on fuzzy sets over JSON data sets. Its query language, called J-CO-QL, is continuously evolving to increase potential applications; the most recent extensions give analysts the capability to retrieve data sets directly from web portals as well as constructs to apply fuzzy set theory to JSON documents and to provide analysts with the capability to perform imprecise queries on documents by means of flexible soft conditions. This paper presents a practical case study in which real data sets are retrieved, integrated and analyzed to effectively show the unique and innovative capabilities of the J-CO Framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuzzy Linear Programming (FLP) has addressed the increasing complexity of real-world decision-making problems that arise in uncertain and ever-changing environments since its introduction in the 1970s. Built upon the Fuzzy Sets theory and classical Linear Programming (LP) theory, FLP encompasses an extensive area of theoretical research and algorithmic development. Unlike classical LP, there is not a unique model for the FLP problem, since fuzziness can appear in the model components in different ways. Hence, despite fifty years of research, new formulations of FLP problems and solution methods are still being proposed. Among the existing formulations, those using fuzzy numbers (FNs) as parameters and/or decision variables for handling inexactness and vagueness in data have experienced a remarkable development in recent years. Here, a long-standing issue has been how to deal with FN-valued objective functions and with constraints whose left- and right-hand sides are FNs. The main objective of this paper is to present an updated review of advances in this particular area. Consequently, the paper briefly examines well-known models and methods for FLP, and expands on methods for fuzzy single- and multi-objective LP that use lexicographic criteria for ranking FNs. A lexicographic approach to the fuzzy linear assignment (FLA) problem is discussed in detail due to the theoretical and practical relevance. For this case, computer codes are provided that can be used to reproduce results presented in the paper and for practical applications. The paper demonstrates that FLP that is focused on lexicographic methods is an active area with promising research lines and practical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a continuation of research into the possibility of using fuzzy logic to assess the reliability of a selected airborne system. The research objectives include an analysis of statistical data, a reliability analysis in the classical approach, a reliability analysis in the fuzzy set theory approach, and a comparison of the obtained results. The system selected for the investigation was the aircraft gun system. In the first step, after analysing the statistical (operational) data, reliability was assessed using a classical probabilistic model in which, on the basis of the Weibull distribution fitted to the operational data, the basic reliability characteristics were determined, including the reliability function for the selected aircraft system. The second reliability analysis, in a fuzzy set theory approach, was conducted using a Mamdani Type Fuzzy Logic Controller developed in the Matlab software with the Fuzzy Logic Toolbox package. The controller was designed on the basis of expert knowledge obtained by a survey. Based on the input signals in the form of equipment operation time (number of flying hours), number of shots performed (shots), and the state of equipment corrosion (corrosion), the controller determines the reliability of air armament. The final step was to compare the results obtained from two methods: classical probabilistic model and fuzzy logic. The authors have proved that the reliability model using fuzzy logic can be used to assess the reliability of aircraft airborne systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this short paper, a critical analysis of the Neutrosophic, Pythagorean and some other novel fuzzy sets theories foundations is provided, taking into account that they actively used for the solution of the decision-making problems. The shortcomings of these theories are exposed. It is stated that the independence hypothesis, which is a cornerstone of the Neutrosophic sets theory, is not in line with common sense and therefore leads to the paradoxical results in the asymptotic limits of this theory. It is shown that the Pythagorean sets theory possesses questionable foundations, the sense of which cannot be explained reasonably. Moreover, this theory does not completely solve the declared problem. Similarly, important methodological problems of other analyzed theories are revealed. To solve the interior problems of the Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy sets and to improve upon them, this being the reason most of the criticized novel sets theories were developed, an alternative approach based on extension of the intuitionistic fuzzy sets in the framework of the Dempster–Shafer theory is proposed. No propositions concerned with the improvement of the Cubic sets theory and Single-Valued Neutrosophic Offset theory were made, as their applicability was shown to be very dubious. In order to stimulate discussion, many statements are deliberately formulated in a hardline form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the controllability of fuzzy solutions for first order nonlocal impulsive neutral functional differential equations is explored using the Banach fixed point theorem. We utilized the concepts of the fuzzy set theory, functional analysis, and the Hausdorff metric. In the conclusion, an illustration is given to bolster the hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the paper, for the first time, four distances for Circular Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets (C-IFSs) are defined. These sets are extensions of the standard IFS that are extensions of Zadeh's fuzzy sets. As it is shown, the distances for the C-IFS are different than those for the standard IFSs. At the moment, they do not have analogues in fuzzy sets theory. Examples, comparing the proposed distances, are given and some ideas for further research are formulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we provide an application of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy sets in daily life’s problem related with HOPE foundation that is planning to build a children hospital, which is the main theme of this paper. For it we first develop the theory of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy sets which is a generalization of bipolar fuzzy sets. After giving the definition we introduce some basic operation of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy sets and focus on weighted aggregation operators in terms of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy sets. We define neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy weighted averaging (N B FWA) and neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy ordered weighted averaging (N B FOWA) operators. Next we introduce different kinds of similarity measures of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy sets. Finally as an application we give an algorithm for the multiple attribute decision making problems under the neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy environment by using the different kinds of neutrosophic bipolar fuzzy weighted/fuzzy ordered weighted aggregation operators with a numerical example related with HOPE foundation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New product development (NPD) is essential to most business organizations to create new values and protect existing values for maintaining high profitability and sustainability. However, the success of NPD projects is deemed to be difficult and challenging owing to high organizational complexity, uncertain business environment, and time-critical innovation. Under the smart manufacturing paradigm, NPD is an active research area to establish effective measures through the adoption of systematic approaches so as to facilitate idea management in the fuzzy front end for the product innovation. In this paper, the domain of new product idea selection is focused on and enhanced by means of the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach, in which multiple criteria and sub-criteria can be considered in the selection process. Among a number of MCDM approaches, the fuzzy set theory and best-worst method (BWM) are integrated as the fuzzy BWM in this study to structure the new product idea selection process under a group decision-making process. The hierarchy structure for the new product idea selection is also established to consider the perspectives of finance, marketing, engineering, manufacturing, and sustainability. Overall speaking, this study contributes to the field of NPD through overcoming the new product idea selection problem, while the group decision-making process is incorporated into the fuzzy BWM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk maturity evaluation is an efficient tool which can assist construction organizations in the identification of their strengths and weaknesses in risk management processes and in taking necessary actions for the improvement of these processes. The accuracy of its results relies heavily on the quality of responses provided by participants specialized in these processes across the organization. Risk maturity models reported in the literature gave equal importance to participants' responses during the model development, neglecting their level of authority in the organization as well as their level of expertise in risk management processes. Unlike the existing models, this paper presents a new risk maturity model that considers the relative importance of the responses provided by the participants in the model development. It considered their authority in the organization and their level of involvement in the risk management processes for calculating the relative weights associated with the risk maturity attributes. It employed an analytic network process (ANP) to model the interdependencies among the risk maturity attributes and utilizes the fuzzy set theory to incorporate the uncertainty associated with the ambiguity of the responses used in the model development. The developed model allows the construction organizations to have a more accurate and realistic view of their current performance in risk management processes. The application of the developed model was investigated by measuring the risk maturity level of an industrial partner working on civil infrastructure projects in Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the complex fuzzy set theory has intensified the attention of many researchers. This paper focuses on developing the algebraic structures pertaining to lattice ordered groups and lattice ordered subgroups for complex intuitionistic fuzzy soft set theory. Furthermore, some of their properties and operations are discussed. In addition, the weighted distance measures between two complex intuitionistic fuzzy soft lattice ordered groups such as weighted hamming, weighted normalized hamming, weighted euclidean and weighted normalized euclidean distance measures were introduced and also some of the algebraic properties of the weighted distance measures are verified. Moreover, the application of complex intuitionistic fuzzy soft lattice ordered groups by using the weighted distance measures is analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the modern world, the computation of vague data is a challenging job. Different theories are presented to deal with such situations. Amongst them, fuzzy set theory and its extensions produced remarkable results. Samrandache extended the theory to a new horizon with the neutrosophic set (NS), which was further extended to interval neutrosophic set (INS). Neutrosophic cubic set (NCS) is the generalized version of NS and INS. This characteristic makes it an exceptional choice to deal with vague and imprecise data. Aggregation operators are key features of decision-making theory. In recent times several aggregation operators were defined in NCS. The intent of this paper is to generalize these aggregation operators by presenting neutrosophic cubic generalized unified aggregation (NCGUA) and neutrosophic cubic quasi-generalized unified aggregation (NCQGUA) operators. The accuracy and precision are a vital tool to minimize the potential threat in decision making. Generally, in decision making methods, alternatives and criteria are considered to evaluate the better outcome. However, sometimes the decision making environment has more components to express the problem completely. These components are named as the state of nature corresponding to each criterion. This complex frame of work is dealt with by presenting the multi-expert decision-making method (MEDMM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquake is one of the natural disasters which threaten many lives every year. It is impossible to prevent earthquakes from occurring; however, it is possible to predict the building damage, human and property losses in advance to mitigate the adverse effects of the catastrophe. Seismic vulnerability assessment is a complex uncertain spatial decision making problem due to intrinsic uncertainties such as lack of complete data, vagueness in experts' comments and uncertainties in the numerical data/relations. It is important to identify and model the incorporated uncertainties of seismic vulnerability assessment in order to obtain realistic predictions. Fuzzy sets theory can model the vagueness in weights of the selected criteria and relationships of the criteria with building damage. Dempster's combination rule is useful for fusion of information on the vulnerability of the buildings which leads to decreased uncertainty of the results. However, when there is a conflict among information sources, classical Dempster rule of combination is not efficient. This paper analyses the uncertainty sources in a geospatial information system (GIS)-based seismic vulnerability assessment of buildings and then focuses on assessing the efficiency of Dempster rule of combination in the fusion of the information sources for the seismic vulnerability assessment. Tabriz, a historical and earthquake prone city in the north west of Iran was selected as the study area. The results verified that some inconsistencies among information sources exist which are important to be considered while proposing a method for the fusion of the information in order to obtain vulnerability assessments with less uncertainty. Based on the assessed building damage, the number of probable victims was estimated. The produced physical and social seismic vulnerability maps provide the required information for urban planners and administrators to reduce property and human losses through pre-earthquake mitigation and preparedness plans efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we will visit Rough Set Theory and the Alternative Set Theory (AST) and elaborate a few selected concepts of them using the means of higher-order fuzzy logic (this is usually called Fuzzy Type Theory). We will show that the basic notions of rough set theory have already been included in AST. Using fuzzy type theory, we generalize basic concepts of rough set theory and the topological concepts of AST to become the concepts of the fuzzy set theory. We will give mostly syntactic proofs of the main properties and relations among all the considered concepts, thus showing that they are universally valid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the feasibility of performing fuzzy information retrieval by word embedding. We propose a fuzzy information retrieval approach to capture the relationships between words and query language, which combines some techniques of deep learning and fuzzy set theory. We try to leverage large scale data and the continuous-bag-of words model to find the relevant feature of words and obtain word embedding. To enhance retrieval effectiveness, we measure the relativity among words by word embedding, with the property of symmetry. Experimental results show that the recall ratio, precision ratio, and harmonic average of two ratios of the proposed method outperforms the ones of the traditional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fuzzy set theory, t-norms and t-conorms are fundamental binary operators. Yager proposed respective parametric families of both t-norms and t-conorms. In this paper, we apply these operators for the analysis of Pythagorean fuzzy sets. For this purpose, we introduce six families of aggregation operators named Pythagorean fuzzy Yager weighted averaging aggregation, Pythagorean fuzzy Yager ordered weighted averaging aggregation, Pythagorean fuzzy Yager hybrid weighted averaging aggregation, Pythagorean fuzzy Yager weighted geometric aggregation, Pythagorean fuzzy Yager ordered weighted geometric aggregation and Pythagorean fuzzy Yager hybrid weighted geometric aggregation. These tools inherit the operational advantages of the Yager parametric families. They enable us to study two multi-attribute decision-making problems. Ultimately we can choose the best option by comparison of the aggregate outputs through score values. We show this procedure with two practical fully developed examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, fuzzy multisets and neutrosophic sets have become a subject of great interest for researchers and have been widely applied to algebraic structures include groups, rings, fields and lattices. Neutrosophic multiset is a generalization of multisets and neutrosophic sets. In this paper, we proposed a algebraic structure on neutrosophic multisets is called neutrosophic multigroups which allow the truth-membership, indeterminacy-membership and falsity-membership sequence have a set of real values between zero and one. This new notation of group as a bridge among neutrosophic multiset theory, set theory and group theory and also shows the effect of neutrosophic multisets on a group structure. We finally derive the basic properties of neutrosophic multigroups and give its applications to group theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new route planning system for the purpose of evaluating the strategic prospects for future Arctic routes. The route planning problem can be regarded as a multi criteria decision making problem with large uncertainties originating from multi-climate models and experts' knowledge and can be solved by a modified A* algorithm where the hesitant fuzzy set theory is incorporated. Compared to the traditional A* algorithm, the navigability of the Arctic route is firstly analyzed as a measure to determine the obstacle nodes and three key factors to the vessel navigation including sailing time, economic cost and risk are overall considered in the HFS-A* algorithm. A numerical experiment is presented to test the performance of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the notion of cubic intuitionistic q-ideals in B C I -algebras is introduced. A relationship between a cubic intuitionistic subalgebra, a cubic intuitionistic ideal, and a cubic intuitionistic q-ideal is discussed. Conditions for a cubic intuitionistic ideal to be a cubic intuitionistic q-ideal are provided. Characterizations of a cubic intuitionistic q-ideal are considered. The cubic intuitionistic extension property for a cubic intuitionistic q-ideal is established. Furthermore, the product of cubic intuitionistic subalgebras, ideals, and q-ideals are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the existing definition of the group-based generalized intuitionistic fuzzy soft set is clarified and redefined by merging intuitionistic fuzzy soft set over the set of alternatives and a group of intuitionistic fuzzy sets on parameters. In this prospect, two new subsets of the group-based generalized intuitionistic fuzzy soft set are proposed and several operations are contemplated. The two new aggregation operators called generalized group-based weighted averaging and generalized group-based weighted geometric operator are introduced. The related properties of proposed operators are discussed. The recent research is emerging on multi-attribute decision making methods based on soft sets, intuitionistic fuzzy soft sets, and generalized intuitionistic fuzzy soft sets. An algorithm is structured and two case studies of multi-attribute decision makings are considered using proposed operators. Further, we provide the comparison and advantages of the proposed method, which give superiorities over recent major existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]