Application-layer Performance Analysis of PRIME in Smart Metering Networks

This paper assesses the performance of actual PRIME v1.3.6 and PRIME v1.4 systems when used for Smart Metering applications. The analysis is performed at the application level using the DLMS/COSEM stack. Hence, it considers performance indicators that are of practical interest for distribution system operators, such as the availability and the average time needed to read the energy load profile of all the meters. To this end, two test networks with 112 smart meters have been deployed in the laboratory (to ensure the stability of the network). In one of them all the Service Nodes communicate directly with the Base Node, while there exist up to 5 switching levels in the other tested network. First, the PRIME v1.3.6 system is evaluated, stressing the significant performance gain that can be obtained by implementing some MAC layer strategies, which are compatible with the specification but not specifically defined on it. Then,the improvement offered by the PRIME v1.4 system is assessed.Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech

Understanding proof practices of pre-service mathematics teachers in geometry

In this work, we show the results of a research with pre-service mathematics secondary teachers about their Van Hiele level regarding the proof in Geometry. We observe three different profiles whose characteristics are described. These descriptions allow us to foresee certain differences when carrying out proof teaching in secondary school. The presence of a profile with a lower level than that assumed for some high school students stands out. The other two profiles show differences regarding the presence of some advanced proof strategies

The impact of electronic word-of-mouth management in hotel ecosystem: insights about managers'' decision-making process

Purpose There is a lack of research proving how electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) is a valuable source of information in the hospitality industry for developing hotels'' intellectual capital. To fill this gap, this study aims to examine hotel managers'' decision-making processes regarding the acceptance and management of eWOM and its impact on the Italian hotel ecosystem. Design/methodology/approach This work takes advantage of the previous contributions to present a hotel''s decision-making process model regarding structural capital. It includes eWOM as a context variable and changes implemented as a dependent variable in a comprehensive model. The structural equation modelling applies to a database obtained through a survey addressed to Italian hotel managers. Findings The results show that eWOM plays an essential role in managers'' motivations to explain hotel changes implementation. The hotel leverages eWOM information and interaction through structural, relational and human capital to enhance products, services and strategies. Research limitations/implications This work contributes to the extant literature by providing a comprehensive framework to explain the consequences of eWOM knowledge management from the intellectual capital view in the Italian hotel ecosystem. Practical implications For practitioners, this research demonstrates how hotel managers should accept and manage eWOM knowledge through intellectual capital to make determinant decisions that improve hotel performance. Originality/value There is a scarcity of research on modelling the acceptability and management of eWOM in the hotel ecosystem from practitioners'' perspectives. This work is the first attempt to determine how eWOM knowledge management boosts hotel intellectual capital and improves service innovation and performance

Designing Embroidered Electrodes for Wearable Surface Electromyography

This work was supported by the UK Crafts Council as part of the Parallel Practices project, by the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Commission under grant agreement 287728 in the framework of EU project STIFF-FLOP and by the Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under grant agreement 637095 in the framework of EU project FourByThree

BTX abatement using Chilean natural zeolite: the role of Brønsted acid sites

In wastewater treatment facilities, air quality is not only affected by conventional unpleasant odour compounds; toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are also found. In this study, the adsorptive capacity of Chilean natural zeolite toward VOC removal was evaluated. Moreover, the influence of zeolite chemical surface properties on VOC elimination was also investigated. Three modified zeolite samples were prepared from a natural Chilean zeolite (53% clinoptilolite, 40% mordenite and 7% quartz). Natural and modified zeolite samples were characterised by nitrogen adsorption at 77 K, elemental analyses and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Chemical modifications of natural zeolite showed the important role of Brønsted acid sites on the abatement of VOCs. The presence of humidity has a negative effect on zeolite adsorption capacity. Natural zeolites could be an interesting option for benzene, toluene and xylene vapour emission abatement

Colombia y la responsabilidad internacional por desapariciones forzadas

El largo conflicto colombiano ha dado lugar a terribles formas de violación de derechos humanos, entre las cuales ha destacado la práctica de la desaparición forzada de personas. Dada la variedad de actores implicados, el presente artículo tiene por objeto analizar bajo qué circunstancias es el Estado responsable de conformidad con el Derecho Internacional, así cómo qué medidas de reparación está desarrollando y si éstas son adecuadas