Coventry University

About: Coventry University is a education organization based out in Coventry, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Higher education. The organization has 4964 authors who have published 12700 publications receiving 255898 citations. The organization is also known as: Lanchester Polytechnic & Coventry Polytechnic.

A review and recent developments in the optimal wind-turbine micro-siting problem

Abstract: This paper presents a review of the current state of the art solutions to the problem of wind farm optimal design. The aim of this work is to present the problem by identifying the most relevant issues involved in the design of a wind farm, as well as to discuss the optimization techniques and wind farm models used in the published literature. An appropriate wind turbine layout is vital in order to obtain adequate performance in relation to the exploitation and operation of the plant during its lifespan. There are several factors that influence wind farm design, chief among them are the calculation of the overall energy yield by the wind farm and the initial investment. The energy produced depends on the local wind conditions and the interference caused by wind turbines nearby. The investment is mainly related to wind turbine acquisition, civil works and electrical infrastructure. However, these are not the only items that influence the design of a wind farm since economic indicators, environmental issues, local regulations, or the presence of wind farms should also be taken into account when deciding the design of the wind farm. Even in the case of the most simplified objective function (maximizing the annual energy produced) the optimization problem cannot be solved by classical optimization techniques. To cope with this problem, most authors have used meta-heuristics techniques which have proved to be efficient when searching for the optimal solution to this problem. The purpose of this paper is to review previous work by offering a clear outline of the latest advances, as well as to highlight the main aspects which need to be taken into account when tackling the wind farm design problem. In addition, in a conclusion of the review, future needs have been identified.

Coastal Sedimentation Associated with the December 12th, 1992 Tsunami in Flores, Indonesia

Abstract: This paper presents the result of a detailed granulometric investigation of sediments deposited by a modern tsunami, the 1992 tsunami in Flores, Indonesia. Eyewitness accounts indicate that sediments were deposited upon coastal lowlands over wide areas as a result of the tsunami inundation. Distinctive vertical and lateral variations in particle size composition are characteristic features of the tsunami deposits and these are intimately related to sedimentary processes associated with flood inundation. The geomorphological and sedimentary evidence is used here to establish a preliminary model of tsunami sedimentation. This information is believed to be of great value in understanding sedimentary processes associated with tsunami flooding and in the interpretation of palaeo-tsunami deposits.

Challenges for Database Management in the Internet of Things

Abstract: This article discusses the challenges for Database Management in the Internet of Things. We provide scenarios to illustrate the new world that will be produced by the Internet of Things, where physical objects are fully integrated into the information highway. We discuss the different types of data that will be part of the Internet of Things. These include identification, positional, environmental, historical, and descriptive data. We consider the challenges brought by the need to manage vast quantities of data across heterogeneous systems. In particular, we consider the areas of querying, indexing, process modeling, transaction handling, and integration of heterogeneous systems. We refer to the earlier work that might provide solutions for these challenges. Finally we discuss a road map for the Internet of Things and respective technical priorities.

Games for Health for Children—Current Status and Needed Research

Abstract: Videogames for health (G4H) offer exciting, innovative, potentially highly effective methods for increasing knowledge, delivering persuasive messages, changing behaviors, and influencing health outcomes. Although early outcome results are promising, additional research is needed to determine the game design and behavior change procedures that best promote G4H effectiveness and to identify and minimize possible adverse effects. Guidelines for ideal use of different types of G4H by children and adolescents should be elucidated to enhance effectiveness and minimize adverse effects. G4H stakeholders include organizational implementers, policy makers, players and their families, researchers, designers, retailers, and publishers. All stakeholders should be involved in G4H development and have a voice in setting goals to capitalize on their insights to enhance effectiveness and use of the game. In the future, multiple targeted G4H should be available to meet a population's diverse health needs in developmentally appropriate ways. Substantial, consistent, and sophisticated research with appropriate levels of funding is needed to realize the benefits of G4H.

Agroecological Research: Conforming—or Transforming the Dominant Agro-Food Regime?

Abstract: Agroecology has three practical forms—a scientific discipline, an agricultural practice, and a social movement. Their integration has provided a collective-action mode for contesting the dominant agro-food regime and creating alternatives, especially through a linkage with food sovereignty. At the same time, agroecology has been recently adopted by some actors who also promote conventional agriculture. Agroecology can play different roles—either conforming to the dominant regime, or else helping to transform it—contingent on specific empowerment strategies. Tensions between “conform versus transform” roles can be identified in European agroecological research, especially in three areas: farm-level agroecosystems development; participatory plant breeding; and short food-supply chains remunerating agroecological methods. To play a transformative role, collaborative strategies need to go beyond the linear stereotype whereby scientists “transfer” technology or farmers “apply” scientific research results. To the extent that farmer–scientist alliances co-create and exchange knowledge, such gains can transform the research system.