VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Regularity and uniqueness in the calculus of variations
Keywords: integral functionals
minimizers

This thesis is about regularity and uniqueness of minimizers of integral functionals of the form
F(u) := ∫Ω F(∇u(x)) dx;
where F∈C2(RNn) is a strongly quasiconvex integrand with p-growth, Ω⊆RnRn is an open bounded domain and u∈W1,pg(Ω,RN) for some boundary datum g∈C1,α(‾Ω, RN).
The first contribution of this work is a full regularity result, up to the boundary, for global minimizers of F provided that the boundary condition g satisfies that ΙΙ∇gΙΙLP < ε for some ε > 0 depending only on n;N, the parameters given by the strong quasiconvexity and p-growth conditions and, most importantly, on an arbitrary but fixed constant M > 0 for which we require that ΙΙ∇gΙΙO,α < M. Furthermore, when the domain Ω is star-shaped, we extend the regularity result to the case of W1,p-local minimizers.
On the other hand, for the case of global minimizers we exploit the compactness provided by the aforementioned regularity result to establish the main contribution of this thesis: we prove that, under essentially the same smallness assumptions over the boundary condition g that we mentioned above, the minimizer of F in W1,pg is unique. This result appears in contrast to the non-uniqueness examples previously given by Spadaro [Spa09], for which the boundary conditions are required to be suitably large.
The Geopolitics of Ethnic Relations in Russia
Keywords: Russia; North Caucasus; Ethnic Relations; Geopolitics

Ethnic relations are an important feature of contemporary Russia. This is especially true in the North Caucasus where ongoing insecurity combined with a depressed economy has led to growing Russian nationalism, xenophobia, and fears over immigration. In Stavropol’skii krai, the only ethnic Russian dominated territory in the North Caucasus Federal District, the situation is especially acute. In this thesis I investigate how the geopolitics of ethnic relations in Stavropol’skii krai, as part of the wider North Caucasus situation, impact on the everyday life of citizens in Stavropol’. I do this through employing an eclectic methodology, including both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
Through four research papers, I explore how the built urban environment, through the politics of naming place (for example, street names and monuments), has become a space through which ethnic identity can be (re)produced and contested. I show how ethnic relations are (re)presented and performed in Stavropol’ through the Den’ kraya celebration, a performance that is based on a Soviet-era idealised framing of ethnic relations, and one which is open to challenge. I explore how in summer 2007 ethnic relations turned violent as ethnic Russian and non-ethnic Russian citizens rioted, and I attempt to explain the geopolitics surrounding this. Finally, I show how everyday ethnic relations have turned increasingly violent in Stavropol’ since 1991, drawing on reports from non-governmental organisations and independent researchers. I situate this research within the context of the changing ethnic geography of the krai since 1991. Together, this research represents a geopolitics of ethnic relations in Stavropol’skii krai.
Increasing statistical power and generalizability in genomics microarray research
Keywords: genomics
sample size
genetics
statistics
meta-analysis
microarray

The high-throughput technologies developed in the last decade have revolutionized the speed of data accumulation in the life sciences. As a result we have very rich and complex data that holds great promise to solving many complex biological questions. One such technology that is very well established and widespread is DNA microarrays, which allows one to simultaneously measure the expression levels of tens of thousands of genes in a biological tissue. This thesis aims to contribute to the development of statistics that allow the end users to obtain robust and meaningful results from DNA microarrays for further investigation. The methodology, implementation and pragmatic issues of two important and related topics – sample size estimations for designing new studies and meta-analysis of existing studies – are presented here to achieve this aim. Real life case studies and guided steps are also given. Sample size estimation is important at the design stage to ensure a study has sufficient statistical power to address the stated objective given the financial constraints. The commonly used formula for estimating the number of biological samples, its short-comings and potential amelioration are discussed. The optimal number of biological samples and number of measurements per sample that minimizes the cost is also presented. Meta-analysis or the synthesis of information from existing studies is very attractive because it can increase the statistical power by making comprehensive and inexpensive use of available information. Furthermore, one can also easily test the generalizability of findings (i.e. the extent of results from a particular valid study can be applied to other circumstances). The key issues in conducting a meta-analysis for microarrays studies, a checklist and R codes are presented here. Finally, the poor availability of raw data in microarray studies is discussed here with recommendations for authors, journal editors and funding bodies. Good availability of data is important for meta-analysis in order to avoid biased results and for sample size estimation.
Measuring laminar burning velocities
Keywords: residuals
combustion
flame speeds
laminar burning velocities

The laminar burning velocity of a fuel is the rate of normal propagation of a 1D flame front relative to the movement of the unburned gas. This is a fundamental property of a fuel that affects many aspects of its combustion behaviour. Experimental values are required to validate kinetic simulations, and also to provide input for models of flashback, minimum ignition energy and turbulent combustion. Burning velocity affects burn duration and consequently power output in spark ignition engines. Burning velocities are affected by pressure, temperature, equivalence ratio, residuals, additives, and stretch rates. The constant volume vessel has been used as it is considered both the most versatile and accurate method of measuring laminar burning velocities. An existing combustion vessel and oven were refurbished and new systems built for fuel injection, ignition, experiment control, data acquisition and high speed schlieren photography. An existing multi-zone model was used to allow calculation of burning velocity from pressure and schlieren data, allowing the user to select data uncorrupted by heat transfer or cellularity. A twelve term correlation for burning velocity was validated using methane modelling data. The chosen data from all the experiments was then fitted to the correlation. Methane, n-butane, n-heptane, iso-octane, toluene, ethylbenzene and ethanol were tested over a wide range of initial pressures (0.5, 1, 2 and 4 barA), temperatures (289-450 K) and equivalence ratios (0.7-1.4). For liquid fuels, tests with real residuals at mole fractions of up to 0.3 were also conducted. Stoichiometric mixture tests were performed at two initial temperatures (380 and 450 K) and the same four initial pressures. For mixtures of iso-octane and ethylbenzene, percentage volumes of 12.5, 25, 50 and 75% iso-octane were tested. It was found that the the percentage of iso-octane affected burning velocity non-linearly. For iso-octane/ethanol, a single 50:50% mixture was tested.
Advances in the theory of electrochemical methods
Keywords: microband electrode arrays
computational electrochemistry
partially supported voltammetry
nanoparticle modified electrodes

This thesis is concerned with dynamic electrochemistry experiments in which faradaic processes are driven by the application of potential to an electrode immersed in an electrolyte solution. In particular, experimental methods are considered which could be used to study electrochemical systems in a more informative way if the processes occurring at the electrode were better understood. The work develops the theoretical models which describe these experiments, and details the approximations made in each model and the conditions under which they are appropriate. Numerical simulations are reported which demonstrate how the models can be used to infer quantitative details of chemical behaviour from experimentally recorded data. The first system studied in detail is linear sweep voltammetry at a microband electrode array. The diffusional behaviour of an electroactive species is shown to depend on the configuration of the microband array and on the potential scan rate used. Details are given on how experimental conditions can be optimised for the study of electrochemical systems. The next area of work develops the theory of nanoparticle-modified electrodes. Experiments are considered in which an electron transfer reaction is catalysed only at the site of the nanoparticles, whilst the supporting planar electrode remains electrochemically inert. Numerical simulations show how the current measured at these modified electrodes depends on the size and shape of the particles, on the distribution of the particles on the electrode surface, and on the timescale of the experiment. The final theme of work is on electrochemical experiments in poorly conducting solutions. A theoretical model is developed which takes into account the effects of an electric field on the mass transport of electroactive species and on the charge transfer kinetics at the electrode. The model is then used to rationalise the unusual current behaviour that is observed in the anodic stripping of thallium from an amalgam.
Analysis of artificial chromosomes in human embryonic stem cells
Keywords: Human embryonic stem cells
Chromosomal analysis
Gene therapy
Genetic manipulation
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) amplicon
Human artificial chromosomes (HAC)

The development of safe and efficient gene delivery systems in pluripotent human embryonic stem cells (hESc) is essential to realising their full potential for basic and clinical research. The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient, non-integrating gene expression system in pluripotent hESc using human artificial chromosomes (HAC). Similar to endogenous chromosomes, HAC are capable of gene expression, replication and segregation during cell division. Unlike retroviral-mediated gene delivery vectors, HAC do not integrate into the host genome and can encompass large genomic regions for the delivery of multiple genes. Despite the advantages HAC offer, their use has been limited due to laborious cloning procedures and poor transfection efficiencies, and thus only studied in immortalised and tumour-derived human cell lines. In this study, the high transduction efficiency of herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) amplicons was utilised to overcome the described difficulties and delivered HAC vectors into pluripotent hESc. Analysis of stable hESc clones showed that de novo gene-expressing HAC were present at high frequencies ranging from 10-70% of metaphases analysed, without integrating into the genome. The established HAC contained an active centromere, and were stably maintained without integration or loss in the absence of selection for 90 days. Stable HAC-containing hESc clones retained their pluripotency as demonstrated by neuronal differentiation, in vitro germ layer and teratoma formation assays. HAC gene expression persisted, with some variation, post-differentiation in the various deriving cell types. This is the first report of successful de novo HAC formation in hESc for gene expression studies. These findings show potential for delivering high-capacity genomic constructs safely and efficiently into pluripotent cells for the purpose of genetic manipulation and ultimately patient-specific somatic gene therapy.
Evaluating forcings in an ensemble of paleo-climate models
Keywords: paleo-climates
GCM ensemble
climate sensitivity

This thesis presents the initial results from climateprediction.net's paleo-experiments. A grand ensemble of paleo-climate models was successfully designed and executed using this distributed computing approach. The physical parameters, initial conditions and boundary conditions were perturbed in two sets of experiments distributed to the general public. The paleo - focus period is the mid-Holocene, i.e. ~6000 years before present, due to its relative climatic stability and the abundance of geological evidence. Attempting to simulate climates that were substantially different from today provides an opportunity to evaluate model skill. A set of robust 6kyBP climatological features were established to benchmark the climate model against in order to assess the model’s abilities. Two experiments were distributed: in the first experiment the boundary conditions in the 6kyBP models took on the standard Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP) values with altered orbital configuration as the main forcing on the climate.
In a second experiment the local boundary conditions in Eastern North America (ENA) were also perturbed in the 6kyBP models to include an expanded Hudson Bay and land ice. The results highlight strengths and weaknesses in the model and stresses the importance of high quality paleo-observations.
The models simulate the broad-scale features of the mid-Holocene climate reasonably well, though the model performance decreases when the benchmarks are inspected more closely. A relationship between the climate sensitivity, i.e. the equilibrium temperature response to doubling of pre-industrial CO2 concentrations, and the 6kyBP East Asian monsoonal moisture budget is found. This provides a climate sensitivity range of 2.5-6.1°C.
The ENA boundary condition experiment concludes that the perturbations brought the climate models to a closer agreement with the geological records.
A sensitivity experiment perturbing the North African vegetation cover emphasises the importance of vegetation feedbacks in relation to the 6kyBP northwards expansion of the monsoon.
'According to the wisdom given to Him' : the use of the Pauline Epistles by early Christian writers before Nicaea
Keywords: Reception History
Early Christianity
Formation
Colossians
Patristics
Pauline Epistles
Ephesians
1 Corinthians

This thesis is a study of the interpretation and reception of the writings attributed to the apostle Paul based on the collation of references to Pauline texts in pre-Nicene Christian writings. The material is analysed utilising a method worked out by Teresa Morgan and Raffaella Cribiore to understand the nature and extent of indebtedness to literary authorities in ancient pedagogy. The application of their method means that the most frequently cited passages from the Pauline corpus become the focus for detailed examination, and a chapter is devoted to the following passages: 1 Corinthians 2.6-16, Ephesians 6.10-17, 1 Corinthians 15.50-58, and Colossians 1.15-20. In each chapter, selections from early Christian texts which use these passages are chosen for in-depth analysis because they are representative in their interpretative approaches of the totality of texts examined. Across many different early Christian writings, images and phrases from these Pauline pericopes were used to support and defend a wide range of theological arguments about the nature of divine wisdom and its contrast with human wisdom, the importance of standing firm in faith, the nature of resurrection and the body, and the nature of Christ. On the basis of the analysis throughout this thesis, conclusions are drawn firstly, about the close connection between scriptural interpretation and theological doctrines; secondly, about early Christian formation, separate from scholarly attempts to recover early Christian catechesis, school teaching, and pedagogy; and finally, about early Christian identity and how it is formed and informed by early Christian use of these four passages.
Econometrics issues in forward-looking monetary models
Keywords: new Keynesian models
Identification
GMM
rational expectations

Recently, single equation approaches for estimating structural models have become popular in the monetary economics literature. In particular, single-equation Generalized Method Moments estimators have been used for estimating forward-looking models with rational expectations. Two important examples are found in Clarida, Gali, and Gertler (1998) for the estimation of forward- looking Taylor rules and in Gali and Gertler (1999) for the estimation of a forward-looking model for inflation dynamics. In this thesis, we address the issues of identification which have been overlooked due to the incompleteness of the single-equation formulations. We provide extensions to existing results on the properties of GMM estimators and inference under weak identification, pertaining to situations in which only functions of the parameters of interest are identified, and structural residuals exhibit negative autocorrelation. We also characterize the power of the Hansen test to detect mis specification, and address the issues arising from using too many irrelevant instruments as well as from general corrections for residual autocorrelation, beyond what is implied by the maintained model.
In general, we show that the non-modelled variables cannot be weakly exogenous for the parameters of interest, and that they are informative about the identification and mis-specification of the model. Modelling the reduced form helps identify pathological situations in which the structural parameters are weakly identified and the GMM estimators are inconsistent and biased in the direction of OLS.We also ¯nd the OLS bias to be increasing in the number of over-identifying instruments, even when the latter are irrelevant, thus demonstrating the dangers of using too many potentially irrelevant instruments. Finally, with regards to the "New Phillips curve", we conclude that, for the US economy, this model is either un-identified or mis-specified, casting doubts on its utility as a model of in°ation dynamics.
Application of nanostructured emitters for high efficiency lighting
Keywords: lighting
carbon nanotubes
field emission
nanotechnology

This is the first study comparing morphologies of CNT films on Kanthal wire, with their field emission properties, and as such offers ways to design better cylindrical emitter devices. A low turn-on field was achieved (0.35 V/µm), the field emission results have been explained using a simple model, and a fluorescent lamp was fabricated. Whilst previous work has been done on the link between “as grown” CNT films and their respective field emission properties on flat substrates, very little work has been done on linking morphology to emission performance on wire substrates, where the morphology can be very different.
Microscopic structures such as towers, ridges and clumps consisting of many aligned or entangled CNTs were grown using an aerosol chemical vapour deposition (a-CVD) technique. Hydrogen added to the carrier gas resulted in a decrease in defect density in the growth of undoped CNTs, and an increase in defect density in the growth of nitrogen doped CNTs (N-CNTs) and boron doped CNTs (BCNTs). In-situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies show that damage to CNT tips results in a significantly higher turn-on field compared to undamaged tips. This can be recovered by making the CNT emit current for several minutes which makes the tip recrystallize due to heat caused by the Nottingham effect.
The field emission properties of the “as grown” CNT films are dominated by protruding CNTs found at the edges of ridge and tower microscopic structures. The field emission properties are also related to the dimensions of these structures with the longest ridges (hence those with the longest protruding CNTs) resulting in the lowest turn-on electric field. The ridge and tower structures act to accommodate protruding CNTs at their edges and their physical dimensions (mainly width) act to separate these emitters so that screening is minimised. This work shows that efficient emitters can be fabricated effectively from simple a-CVD techniques and microscopic structures act to improve, not degrade, field emission properties.
The defendant’s bad character in the wake of the Criminal Justice Act 2003
Keywords: character
defendant
evidence
crime
trial

This thesis examines the interpretation and application of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (UK), Part 11 Chapter 1, which came into force on 15 December 2004. Part 11 Chapter 1 concerns evidence of bad character, a concept approximately comparable with common law similar fact evidence, in relation to all parties who may be connected with a criminal trial. The admission and use of similar fact evidence has often been the subject of controversy, and the significant changes made by the CJA 2003 have attracted their own body of support and criticism.
The nine chapters of this thesis attempt an in-depth study into the impact of the legislation on the robustness and effectiveness of the criminal trial, and consider whether the criminal trial is suited to the level of exposure of bad character now facilitated by the CJA. In particular, the thesis focuses upon the key provisions governing the uses of bad character evidence of the defendant: the seven gateways set out in s 101 of the CJA.
The operation of those gateways and their accompanying explanatory provisions is examined through a combination of engagement with the Law Commission’s Report 273 (which preceded the enactment of the legislation), the range of Court of Appeal cases dealing with the legislation, and academic commentary. It was foreshadowed by commentators and early case law that the new provisions might not be easy to interpret or apply, and subsequent cases have borne out this prediction.
An analysis of the bad character provisions suggests that, even though the CJA was intended to provide clarity in regulation, it has itself led to confusion in some important respects. Certain central terms lack definition, and some provisions have unintended consequences. The case law reflects this in its frequent, often brief, and sometimes inconsistent analysis of the specific parts of the legislation, which can make it difficult to determine the defendant’s guilt or innocence in a precise and scrupulous manner.
Investigating metabolite channelling in primary plant metabolism
Keywords: Primary metabolism
TCA cycle
metabolic channelling

The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is one of the central pathways in respiration and also plays an important role in a variety of metabolic processes including the synthesis of secondary metabolites and the provision of carbon skeletons for ammonium assimilation and amino acid biosynthesis. Effective regulation of these multiple demands on the TCA cycle is likely to be very important for plant fitness. One way that this regulation could be achieved is through metabolite channelling. This occurs when metabolites are transferred between enzyme active sites without diffusing into the bulk aqueous phase of the cell, and is known to be important in regulating demands in metabolic pathways.
Although there is evidence that metabolite channelling exists in animals, there have been no attempts to investigate it in plant. The first aim of this thesis was therefore to investigate whether metabolite channelling exists in the plant TCA cycle. Isotope dilution experiments were developed to investigate metabolite channelling, and were able to show that metabolite channelling was present between certain enzymes of the TCA cycle in both S. tuberosum and A. thaliana mitochondria. The second aim of the thesis was investigate whether metabolite channelling is important in regulating the TCA cycle in plant mitochondria. The pattern of metabolite channelling did not change in mitochondria isolated from the light and the dark, or from mitochondria with increased or decreased TCA cycle rates, but it was not possible to say whether the metabolite channelling altered in a quantitative fashion. Overall the thesis provides the first direct evidence of channelling in the TCA cycle in plants, and further work should help to elucidate what role, if any, it plays.