Manchester Metropolitan University

About: Manchester Metropolitan University is a education organization based out in Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Context (language use). The organization has 5435 authors who have published 16202 publications receiving 442561 citations. The organization is also known as: Manchester Polytechnic & MMU.

A unified model for the analysis of FACTS devices in damping power system oscillations. I. Single-machine infinite-bus power systems

Abstract: The static VAr compensator (SVC), controllable series compensator (CSC) and phase shifter (PS) are three of the options of power electronic devices, referred to as FACTS (flexible AC transmission systems) devices. They are becoming of increasing importance in suppressing power system oscillations and improving system damping. In this paper, a unified model of a power system installed with these three FACTS devices is established. Their effectiveness in suppressing power system oscillations is investigated by analysing their damping torque contributions to the power system. The work in this paper relies on the theoretical analysis of a general single-machine infinite-bus power system where the objective is to present an insight into the operation of the damping control of the FACTS devices.

In vivo human muscle structure and function: adaptations to resistance training in old age.

Abstract: This study investigated changes in elderly muscle joint angle-torque relation induced by resistance training. Older adults were assigned to either training (n = 9, age 74.3 +/- 3.5 years; mean +/-s.d.) or to control groups (n = 9, age 67.1 +/- 2 years). Leg-extension and leg-press exercises were performed three times per week for 14 weeks. Maximal isometric knee extension torque was measured across the knee joint angle range of movement. Vastus lateralis muscle architecture was examined in vivo using ultrasonography. The vastus lateralis muscle fascicle force was estimated from the measured joint torque, enabling construction of the fascicle length-force relation. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was measured from representative agonist and antagonist muscles. Training altered the angle-torque relation: (a) displacing it by 9-31% towards higher torque values (P < 0.05); and (b) shifting the optimal angle from 70 deg (corresponding torque: 121.4 +/- 61 N m) before to 60 deg (134.2 +/- 57.2 N m; P < 0.05) after training. Training also altered the fascicle length-force relation: (a) displacing it by 11-35% towards higher force values; and (b) shifting the optimal fascicle length from 83.7 +/- 8 mm (corresponding force: 847.9 +/- 365.3 N) before to 93.2 +/- 12.5 mm (939.3 +/- 347.8 N; P < 0.01) after training. The upward displacement of the angle-torque relation was mainly due to a training-induced increase in agonist activation, whilst the shift in the optimal angle was associated with changes in muscle-tendon properties.

A neuroscientific review of imagery and observation use in sport.

Abstract: Imagery and observation are multicomponential, involving individual difference characteristics that modify the processes. The authors propose that both imagery and observation function by offering effective routes to access and reinforce neural networks for skilled performance. The neural isomorphism with overt behaviors offers a tempting mechanism to explain the beneficial outcomes of the 2 processes. However, several limitations related to imagery indicate the possibility that imagery may not be as efficacious as the literature would indicate. The authors propose observation-based approaches to offer more valid and effective techniques in sport psychology and motor control.

Reinvigorating the sustainable development research agenda: the role of the sustainable development goals (SDG)

Abstract: The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) contain a set of 17 measures to foster sustainable development across many areas. It offers a good opportunity to reinvigorate sustainable...