Multi-verse optimization algorithm- and salp swarm optimization algorithm-based optimization of multilevel inverters

Neural Computing and Applications - Renewable energy sources are installed into both distribution and transmission grids more and more with the introduction of smart grid concept. Hence, efficient...     

A novel fuzzy multi-criteria decision framework for sustainable supplier selection with incomplete information

Both academic and corporate interest in sustainable supply chains has increased in recent years. Supplier selection process is one of the key operational tasks for sustainable supply chain management. This paper examines the problem of identifying an effective model based on sustainability principles for supplier selection operations in supply chains. Due to its multi-criteria nature, the sustainable supplier evaluation process requires an appropriate multi-criteria analysis and solution approach. The approach should also consider that decision makers might face situations such as time pressure, lack of expertise in related issue, etc., during the evaluation process. The paper develops a novel approach based on fuzzy analytic network process within multi-person decision-making schema under incomplete preference relations. The method not only makes sufficient evaluations using the provided preference information, but also maintains the consistency level of the evaluations. Finally, the paper analyzes the sustainability of a number of suppliers in a real-life problem to demonstrate the validity of the proposed evaluation model.     

A novel hybrid MCDM approach based on fuzzy DEMATEL, fuzzy ANP and fuzzy TOPSIS to evaluate green suppliers

It is well known that “green” principles and strategies have become vital for companies as the public awareness increased against their environmental impacts. A company’s environmental performance is not only related to the company’s inner environmental efforts, but also it is affected by the suppliers’ environmental performance and image. For industries, environmentally responsible manufacturing, return flows, and related processes require green supply chain (GSC) and accompanying suppliers with environmental/green competencies. During recent years, how to determine suitable and green suppliers in the supply chain has become a key strategic consideration. Therefore this paper examines GSC management (GSCM) and GSCM capability dimensions to propose an evaluation framework for green suppliers. However, the nature of supplier selection is a complex multi-criteria problem including both quantitative and qualitative factors which may be in conflict and may also be uncertain. The identified components are integrated into a novel hybrid fuzzy multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) model combines the fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory Model (DEMATEL), the Analytical Network Process (ANP), and Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) in a fuzzy context. A case study is proposed for green supplier evaluation in a specific company, namely Ford Otosan.     

Biosorption of Acid Red P-2BX by lichens as low-cost biosorbents

The aim of this study is to examine the dye biosorption properties of lichen species called Cladonia convoluta and Evernia prunastri. Since lichens are extensively found in the environment, their suitability as a cheap adsorbent has been investigated in this study. The optimal parameters for textile dye biosorption were also determined. The dried lichen biomass showed better dye biosorption capacity than ash lichen biomass. C. convoluta had better dye biosorption capacity than E. prunastri. Dye biosorption rate was found as 71.41% at optimal conditions. This study concluded that C. convoluta was a successful and cheap biosorbent for treatment of water contaminated by Acid Red P-2BX dye.     

Preparation of dye sensitized titanium oxide nanoparticles for solar cell applications

A new method for synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-dye nanoparticles is reported. TiO₂ nanocrystals were obtained at 150 and 200 °C by using chemically bonded TiO₂-sensitizer dye as a precursor. Titanium tetraisopropoxide was first modified with a dye molecule and then precipitated by dropping into acidic water. A strongly colored precipitate was obtained. Hydrothermal growth of a colloidal solution was carried out in a Teflon-lined stainless steel autoclave. Dye sensitized solar cell efficiencies obtained were comparable and fill factor values were close to the analogous cells prepared by the use of conventional TiO₂ paste techniques. This method allows the use of different substrates together with nanocrystalline TiO₂ for many technological applications.     

Transferrin-Decorated Niosomes with Integrated InP/ZnS Quantum Dots and Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Dual Targeting and Imaging of Glioma

The development of multifunctional nanoscale systems that can mediate efficient tumor targeting, together with high cellular internalization, is crucial for the diagnosis of glioma. The combination of imaging agents into one platform provides dual imaging and allows further surface modification with targeting ligands for specific glioma detection. Herein, transferrin (Tf)-decorated niosomes with integrated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) and quantum dots (QDs) were formulated (PEGNIO/QDs/MIONs/Tf) for efficient imaging of glioma, supported by magnetic and active targeting. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the complete co-encapsulation of MIONs and QDs in the niosomes. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated enhanced cellular uptake of the niosomal formulation by glioma cells. In vitro imaging studies showed that PEGNIO/QDs/MIONs/Tf produces an obvious negative-contrast enhancement effect on glioma cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and also improved fluorescence intensity under fluorescence microscopy. This novel platform represents the first niosome-based system which combines magnetic nanoparticles and QDs, and has application potential in dual-targeted imaging of glioma.     

Porous polyurethane film fabricated via the breath figure approach for sustained drug release

The breath figure (BF) method is an effective process for fabricating porous polymeric films. In this study, we fabricated porous polymer films from thermoplastic polyurethane (PU) through static BF with CHCl₃ as a solvent under 55–80% relative humidity. The porous PU films were prepared within various pore structures and sizes, which were adjustable, depending on the fabrication conditions. The humidity and exposure time were examined as variable parameters affecting the surface morphology, wettability, and cytotoxicity. Atorvastatin calcium, a hyperlipidemic agent, was loaded into the porous films during the casting process, and the drug-loading and drug-releasing behaviors of the porous PU membranes were evaluated. Approximately 60–80% of the drug was released in 14 days. The films exhibited sustained drug-release performances because of the hydrophobicity and nonbiodegradable nature of PU for perivascular drug administration. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019 , 136, 47658.     

Effects of crushed clay brick aggregate on mortar durability

This paper reports an experimental study that aimed to investigate the effects of recycled clay brick, used as a part of fine aggregate, on mortar durability. The brick, in crushed form, was from a local brick manufacturer that salvages its off-standard products. It was used to replace 10% and 20% (by weight) of the river sand in mortar. Effects of the brick replacement on the mortar flow, compressive strength, shrinkage, freeze–thaw resistance, and alkali–silica reaction potential were investigated. The results showed that as the brick replacement level increased, the mortar flowability reduced. The 10% and 20% brick replacements had no negative effect on the mortar compressive strength and very limited effect on the mortar shrinkage. The freeze–thaw resistance of the mortar was improved by the brick replacement. However, the use of crushed brick as aggregate appeared not to reduce potential alkali–silica reaction. The microscopy study revealed the alkali–silica reaction product and associated cracking in the mortar. Additional study indicated that the brick aggregate used in the study had pessimum proportion, 30%, for the alkali–silica reaction expansion.