VictorJuiz/thesis huggingface dataset:
Injunctive relief in tort law
Keywords: private law
injunction
tort law
commercial remedies
equity

There is a large body of contemporary and historical case law in England and Wales in which injunctions have been granted to restrain or remedy many different torts. Remarkably, however, there is a dearth of analysis of the availability of injunctive relief in tort law. This thesis seeks to impose an intelligible order on the case law concerning injunctions in tort and then consider what it tells us about tort law. The thesis begins by analysing how the injunction in aid of legal rights came to be developed as a remedy by the Court of Chancery. It then clarifies the formal distinctions between the different types of injunction. The claim is made that four types of injunction are awarded to restrain or remedy torts: prohibitory, desisting mandatory, restorative mandatory, and quia timet injunctions. The law governing the award of these injunctions in tort law is then analysed in detail. It is argued that any tort (except a cause of action generating a primary liability) can be restrained by an injunction. Furthermore, the claim is made that distinct analytical processes are employed by the courts when they decide whether to award injunctions in aid of tort law rights. Having set out the doctrinal findings as to when prohibitory, desisting mandatory, restorative mandatory, and quia timet injunctions can be granted, the thesis considers what implications the findings have for tort law more generally. The most important implication is this. The way in which tort law is expounded in textbooks and monographs, and taught in universities, needs updating. Specifically, we must not overemphasise the award of damages and neglect to highlight the importance of the injunction. The true position is that injunctive relief is as crucial as damages are to enforcing the rights that are generated by tort law.
Francophone identity and sense of belonging towards a linguistic community in Indonesian speakers of French
Keywords: sense of belonging
Francophonie
linguistic community
Francophone
L1 Indonesian
French as foreign language
linguistic identity

This thesis investigates the F/francophone identity and sense of belonging to the F/francophone community in French speakers with L1 Indonesian. The linguistic identity of speakers of Indonesian background has largely been under-researched, much less in the context of F/francophonie or the F/francophone community. Qualitative data collection methods (semi-structured interviews, solicited semi-structured diary entries and focus group discussion) were used in a semi-longitudinal study involving six French speakers with L1 Indonesian, three located in Indonesia and three located in France. This study aimed to discover whether the participants consider themselves F/francophones, whether they feel a sense of belonging to the F/francophone community as a whole and whether there is a difference between participants located in Indonesia and participants located in France. Findings show that participants only connect to the notion of F/francophonie in the linguistic dimension and identify more with the idea of ‘a community of French speakers’ than F/francophonie. Results of this study carry implications for the use of the term ‘F/francophonie’ and ‘F/francophones’ in the scientific literature, as well as implications for French language teaching in Indonesia.
How are undergraduate students supervised? Supervisor and student perspectives on undergraduate dissertation supervision in an elite UK university
Keywords: undergraduate dissertation
higher education
dissertation supervision
RDM2023
undergraduate supervision

The undergraduate dissertation is a significant component of many undergraduate programs in the UK, representing a crucial contribution to the immediate degree award outcome and a key stage in the long-term development of potential academic researchers. From the recognition of the undergraduate dissertation as a high-stakes project, most universities assign an individual supervisor to students in order to ensure the successful completion of the dissertation and foster the intellectual and scholarly development of students. Whilst much has been written about the function and purpose of supervision, less is known about undergraduate supervision as an intensive and interpersonally focused one-to-one relationship that spans the duration of dissertation research. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, this study explored the perceptions and experiences of finalist undergraduates and their dissertation supervisors in social science at an elite university in the UK and investigated the assumptions, beliefs and objectives shaping students and supervisors’ approaches to supervision along the dissertation journey.
Major findings from the quantitative analysis demonstrate changing supervisory involvement in response to different research tasks and point to an apparent mismatch between student demand for and supervisor provision of support in a relatively late phase of the dissertation. Qualitative findings add nuance and context to patterns already observed in survey responses and illuminate issues that would not have arisen had this study stopped at the quantitative stage, such as the significance of open communication and mutual understanding for a healthy and productive student-supervisor relationship. The two sources of evidence identify undergraduate supervision as multi-stage and non-uniform, as the level and type of supervisory support involved in supervision varied not just throughout the year but also with the student-supervisor pair. The findings represent an original contribution to the existing literature on undergraduate supervision and may offer useful considerations to policymakers and undergraduate supervisors within the social science division at the case university. Generalisability is limited due to the small sample and the unique context in which this research was situated. That said, findings may have some transferability to similar settings, though any effort in this regard shall be made with caution.
Crete and the sea: the maritime cultural landscape of late Hellenistic and imperial Crete
Keywords: maritime archaeology
Crete
maritime cultural landscape
harbours
shipwrecks

Following the Roman occupation in 67 BC, Crete underwent several transformations in its societal and economic structures. The island's transition into the Empire changed the shape of the cultural landscape of Crete, both in its interior and coasts. The new administrative system, in combination with the end of endemic warfare and the vast exploitation of the sea, liberated the island from its hostile past by shaping its new ‘Imperial’ identity.
This thesis examines the different dynamics and mechanisms that transformed Crete’s Maritime Cultural Landscape (MCL) in Imperial times (1st c. BC – 3rd c. AD) and the sea's undisputed role in the island's overall prosperity. As part of this endeavour, my research focuses on a number of case studies in order to identify the circumstances under which several harbour sites developed, expanded, and became the new commercial centres of the island. Furthermore, the production of a new dataset of information about Cretan shipwrecks and their cargoes is presented, which constitutes the first attempt to gather evidence of all known Roman shipwrecks from the island. This study constitutes the first comprehensive overview of ports and shipwrecks from Crete, much of which is based on primary data collection and analysis. It also provides a significant insight into the role and importance of the sea in the gradual transformation and development of the Cretan economy and society following the island's transition from the Hellenistic to the sphere of the expansive Roman world.
In order to accurately reconstruct the MCL of Crete, a comprehensive analysis of the island's trading patterns was conducted. Special attention is given to the various scales of interactions that emerged among the Cretan poleis and harbours, as well as the interactions with external regions involved in maritime trade. Such an interpretation aims to show the extent to which the new conditions affected the ports, by gradually turning them into administrative and commercial centres. By applying different methodological approaches and cognitive hermeneutical tools to each chapter, a series of new hypotheses concerning the economy and society of Crete are formulated, leading the thesis into its final discussion, the MCL.
Computationally bounded rationality from three perspectives: precomputation, regret tradeoffs, and lifelong learning
Keywords: computationally bounded rationality
lifelong learning

What does it mean for a computer program to be optimal? Many fields in optimal decision making, from game theory to Bayesian decision theory, define optimal solutions which can be computationally intractable to implement or find. This is problematic, because it means that sometimes these solutions are not physically realizable. To address this problem, bounded rationality studies what it means to behave optimally subject to constraints on processing time, memory and knowledge. This thesis contributes three new models for studying bounded rationality in different contexts. The first model considers games like chess. We suppose each player can spend some time before the game precomputing (memorizing) strong moves from an oracle, but has limited memory to remember these moves. We show how to analytically quantify how randomly optimal strategies play in equilibrium, and give polynomial- time algorithms for computing a best response and an ε-Nash equilibrium. We use the best response algorithm to empirically evaluate the chess playing program Stockfish. The second model takes place in the setting of adversarial online learning. Here, we imagine an algorithm receives new problems online, and is given a computational budget to run B problem solvers for each problem. We show how to trade off the budget B for a strengthening of the algorithm’s regret guarantee in both the full and semi-bandit feedback settings. We then show how this tradeoff implies new results for Online Submodular Function Maximization (OSFM) (Streeter and Golovin, 2008) and Linear Programming. We use these observations to derive and benchmark a new algorithm for OSFM. The third model approaches bounded rationality from the perspective of lifelong learning (Chen and Liu, 2018). Instead of modelling the final solution, lifelong learning models how a computationally bounded agent can accumulate knowledge over time and attempt to solve tractable subproblems it encounters. We develop models for incrementally accumulating and learning knowledge in a domain agnostic setting, and use these models to give an abstract framework for a lifelong reinforcement learner. The framework attempts to make a step towards making the best of analytical performance guarantees, while still being able to make use of black box techniques such as neural networks which may perform well in practice.
A probabilistic approach to fractional reaction-diffusion equations
Keywords: mean curvature flow
long range process
fractional reaction-diffusion equation
Allen-Cahn equation
stable process

This thesis consists of two projects. In the first project, we prove a new result relating the solution interface of the scaled fractional Allen–Cahn equation to motion by mean curvature flow. More precisely, we show that, for α ∈ (1, 2) and d ≥ 2, if u is a solution to the scaled fractional Allen–Cahn equation
∂tu=− I(ε)^(α-2)(−∆)^(α/2) u+ε^(-2)u(1−u)(2u-1) t>0, x∈R^d
with a suitably chosen initial condition and scaling then as ε → 0, u converges to the indicator function of a set whose boundary evolves according to motion by mean curvature flow. Here, I(ε) can be chosen from a family of possible ‘scaling functions’, distinguishing our result from known convergence results such as [IS09]. Our proof is purely probabilistic (taking inspiration from [EFP17]) and describes solutions of the fractional Allen–Cahn equation in terms of ternary branching α-stable motions. Finally, we prove that this mean curvature flow behaviour is preserved for a stochastic analogue of the fractional Allen–Cahn equation. We do so via the Spatial Λ-Fleming-Viot process. In our second project, we prove a new result on the spreading speed of solutions to one-dimensional fractional Fisher– KPP type equations with appropriately chosen initial condition, such as the equation
∂tu=−(−∆)^(alpha/2) u+u(1−u) t>0, x∈R.
Taking inspiration from [Pen18], we use the Feynman–Kac formula to prove probabilistically that the front position of solutions to these equations grow exponentially in time, and state the precise order of this spread- ing speed, improving known results such as those from [CR13].
What does it mean to decolonise the curriculum?
Keywords: pedagogy
qualitative
history
racism
quantitative
curriculum
school
MLT2021
mixed methods
MLT
education
questionnaire
decolonisation

The events of the summer of 2020, with the murder of George Floyd and the toppling of the statue of Edward Colston, reignited calls for curriculum change in the UK. Activists voiced the need for a more racially diverse, decolonised curriculum, particularly in school history. With the ambiguity surrounding the contested term, decolonisation, this paper explores what it may mean in practice. It considers why decolonisation is important and relevant in education before scrutinising the history curriculum more specifically. The centrality of engaged pedagogy in service of decolonisation is also emphasised. Borne out of collaboration with local history organisation, Uncomfortable Oxford, this paper examines the impact of a series of nine lessons jointly planned on local history, taught to one year seven class. These lessons aimed to provide answers to three research questions: what might be the impact of local history in decolonising the curriculum?; how does a focus on construction of history impact on students historical thinking?; and lastly, how does a pedagogy built around praxis, voice and usefulness support decolonisation? A mixed methods approach, consisting of an initial iterative questionnaire, field notes, and second questionnaire, was employed to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The findings suggest that pupils may not initially realise the range of places history can be located, their own ability to participate in the discipline, or the importance of the topic taught (in this case, local history). But, when taught with a focus on decolonisation, revealing the processes that have constructed historical narratives, considering alternative histories, emphasising praxis and student voice, the importance, meaning and power of the discipline can be unlocked.
Non-compensatory damages and public interests
Keywords: liability
disgorgement damages
private law
non-compensatory damages
public interest
discretion
nominal damages
damages
English law
as of right
waiver
compensation
contemptuous damages
vindicatory damages
public interest damages
restitutionary damages
judicial remedies
punitive damages

According to received wisdom, non-compensatory damages (NCDs) have nothing significant in common with each other save that they are not compensatory. Indeed, the awards of punitive, nominal, contemptuous, vindicatory, restitutionary and disgorgement damages are typically seen as a group of disparate remedies.

This thesis is the first attempt to analyse NCDs as a category. It focuses on damages in English tort and contract law. The thesis argues that most awards traditionally referred to as NCDs can be collectively defined as awards justified by damage to public interests. The contrast between such ‘public interest damages’ and compensatory awards, as the thesis shows, can be traced back to a fundamental distinction between measures of damages justified by considerations giving effect to individual rights and measures justified by non-rights-based considerations, namely violations of public interests. The law should acknowledge these two fundamental justifications because the distinction between them has doctrinal implications. For example, the thesis contends that unlike compensatory awards, public interest damages should not be available as of right.

The thesis shows that the similarities and overlaps amongst individual types of public interest damages and the distinctions between compensatory and non-compensatory damages (qua public interest damages) are too important to be ignored. Thus, it is recommended that we understand and develop public interest damages collectively as a distinct class of awards. Dealing with potential counter arguments, the thesis shows how such a collective approach could be implemented in practice and that this approach would not compromise the core tenets of the doctrines governing the award of NCDs. It also reveals the benefits of approaching public interest damages collectively.

Overall, by way of advancing a new interpretation of the law of NCDs, the thesis also contributes to our understanding of the English law of damages more generally and of the typically overlooked, yet significant role of public interests in the law of damages.
Emotional and behavioural responses to GCSE: a case study in England
Keywords: educational assessment
exam stress
student voice
exam preparation
narrowed curriculum
washback
GCSE
test anxiety
test preparation

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is widely viewed as a pivotal milestone for young people in England, with its outcomes shaping future educational and professional opportunities. Despite its high-stakes nature, the perspectives and experiences of the students – those directly navigating this landscape – often remain underrepresented in educational research and policy discussions. This study seeks to amplify student voices and extend beyond the predominant narratives centred on test anxiety and student well-being to capture a more holistic view of their GCSE journey. Through semi-structured interviews, this study centred on students' emotional and behavioural responses towards GCSEs. Data analysis primarily drew from 22 Year 11 and 12 students from a comprehensive suburban London school, complemented by insights from five educators, field notes, and a reflexive journal. A specially designed timeline was used for Year 12 participants to aid memory recall during interviews. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was employed as the analytical strategy, yielding three salient themes: the omnipresence of stress in students’ GCSE experience, the positive value of exam preparation, and the tension between curriculum depth and breadth. This study also reveals factors that could enhance students’ GCSE experience and capture their aspirations and hopes for the future GCSE system. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of direct student engagement, valuing their articulate and invaluable feedback. While debates around the utility of GCSE persist, this research advocates for their reform rather than elimination. Drawing from the rich tapestry of student experiences can guide future policy and practice, fostering a GCSE experience that is both rewarding and sensitive to student well-being.
Engineering cell free protein synthesis and synthetic cells
Keywords: Increasing protein yield in IVTT
Thermoresponsive vesicles
IVTT
Thermosensitive vesicles
Synthetic cells
Liposome
Lipid vesicles

Mimicking the structure and function of natural cells, synthetic cells hold significant potential in various applications. These synthetic cells, which come in numerous forms, are developed from different materials, including lipids and proteins, as well as synthetic materials such as polymers. The method of producing synthetic cells depends largely on their intended use and the materials used in their formation. Expression of genes within a synthetic cell can allow its usage in many fields to either study minimal cellular behaviour and function or use them as cargo holding vehicles for controlled delivery to target sites.
This thesis focuses on the production of lipid-based synthetic cells using a cell-free protein expression system and a DNA template. The primary objective of this study was to generate synthetic cells capable of producing a target protein, which can be released in a controlled manner upon the application of heat. Heat is a promising stimulus for future applications in SCs due to its thermal control to allow precise manipulation, biocompatibility, non-invasiveness, versatility, scalability, and integration with existing technologies.
To produce the SCs, we initially optimized the inverted-emulsion method to create giant unilamellar vesicles. These vesicles successfully encapsulated the cell-free protein expression system, enabling the production of a fluorescent protein or a reporter enzyme. However, incorporating heat-sensitive lipids into the synthetic cells using this approach proved unsuccessful. Consequently, we pursued an alternative strategy to produce SCs known as the freeze-dried empty liposomes (FDEL) method. Through optimization, this method enabled us to incorporate thermosensitive materials such as DPPC, lysolipids, and PEG into the SCs at specific compositions, facilitating controlled release upon heating.
Furthermore, we investigate a genetic engineering method to enhance the protein yield in the E. coli cell-free protein expression system, PURExpress, by introducing a short sequence referred to as a "booster." We identify specific cell penetrating peptide nucleotide sequences and their derivatives which allow higher expression of the fluorescent protein, mVenus.
A multidisciplinary investigation of magmatic overpressure and its implications for volcanic eruption triggering
Keywords: electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD)
overpressure
relaxation timescales
crustal properties
thermal modelling
experimental petrology
magma
volcanic systems

Magmatic overpressure – pressure in excess of lithostatic – can be generated by processes such as thermal expansion, crystallisation or magma injection. We cannot observe these processes directly, yet the magnitude and timescale of overpressure build-up are both critical for understanding failure limits and forecasting volcanic eruptions. This thesis explores variations in the magnitude and rate of overpressure build-up with varying magmatic and crustal properties. It also assesses the use of electron backscatter diffraction as a new tool for probing reservoir overpressurisation and storage conditions.
Chapter 2 demonstrates that there are variations in the intrinsic overpressure-generating capacity of magmas according to their initial fluid content. Overpressure due to second boiling increases in magnitude with increasing XH2O, and is at a peak in magmas with initial H2O contents which are at the solubility limit. The implications of this variability in overpressure are discussed in the context of eruption style, and results are coupled with a thermal model to determine the associated timescales of overpressurisation. Chapter 3 continues with this novel coupling of thermodynamic and thermal models by quantifying the effect of changes in magma reservoir volume, geometry and crustal properties on timescales of overpressurisation. These timescales are discussed in the context of other overpressurisation mechanisms, including magma buoyancy and bubble rise. The importance of overpressurisation rate, as well as the absolute value, is highlighted in the context of eruption triggering. Chapter 4 explores overpressurisation from a different angle, by analysing deformation in natural and experimentally deformed volcanic samples to investigate physical signals of overpressurisation. Crystal plastic deformation is quantified using electron backscatter diffraction, and demonstrates potential for determining long-term magma storage conditions. Further experimentation to assess the effect of crystallinity, and analysis of samples from a range of explosive eruptions are the most useful next steps to achieve this goal.