In this paper we propose an ant colony optimization metaheuristic (ACO-CF) to solve the machine–part cell formation problem. ACO-CF is a MAX2MIN ant system, which is implemented in the hyper-cube framework to automatically scale the objective functions of machine–part cell formation problems. As an intensification strategy, we integrate an iteratively local search into ACO-CF. Based on the assi...

 This paper considers a bi-objective scheduling problem in a flexible manufacturing cell (FMC) which minimizes the maximum completion time (i.e., makespan) and maximum tardiness simultaneously. A new mathematical model is considered to reflect all aspect of the manufacturing cell. This type of scheduling problem is known to be NP-hard. To cope with the complexity of such a hard problem, a genet...

Over the last three decades, numerous algorithms have been proposed to solve the work-cell formation problem. For practicing manufacturing managers it would be nice to know as to which algorithm would be most effective and efficient for their specific situation. While several studies have attempted to fulfill this need, most have not resulted in any definitive recommendations and a better metho...

Introduction: Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is the most common complication after total laryngectomy. Its incidence is extremely variable, with values ranging from 3% and 65%. The management of this problem considerably increases the length and the cost of hospitalization.  The aim of this study is to analyze the incidence, predisposing factors, and outcome of PCF in patients undergoing total...

Cell formation problem (CFP) is one of the main problems in cellular manufacturing systems. Minimizing exceptional elements and voids is one of the common objectives in the CFP. The purpose of the present study is to propose a new model for cellular manufacturing systems to group parts and machines in dedicated cells using a part-machine incidence matrix to minimize the voids. After identifying...

Background: We had previously identified the genes involved in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck using differential display and DNA microarray techniques. We also reported the first analytical study on a novel human gene called LOC92912, which was identified by differential display as a gene up-regulated in such carcinomas. LOC92912, which is a putative member of the E2 ubiquitin con...

Nowadays, we are witnessing the growth of firms that distribute the production capacity of their products to a wide geographic range to supply the demand of several markets. In this article, the relationships and interactions between cell design and supply chain design are investigated. For this purpose, a novel integrated model is presented for designing dynamic cellular manufacturing systems ...