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Adjudicating austerity: an empirical analysis of judicial decision-making in the challenges to the law and policy that implemented austerity in the UK
Get PDFThe 2008 global financial crisis had a major impact on the UK’s public finances. In response, the 2010 and 2015 governments implemented an austerity programme to reduce spending. It was achieved by primary legislation, delegated legislation and discretionary decision-making powers. The central question this thesis answers is whether, in adjudicating judicial review claims that challenged the law and policy that implemented austerity, the limits of adjudication envisaged by political constitutionalism were exceeded.
Political constitutionalism holds that the resolution of disagreements about what policy or course of action ought to be adopted are best resolved by ordinary democratic and political processes rather than legal processes. Some political constitutionalist scholarship claims, in reliance on examples of decision-making in judicial review, that political decision-making has become increasingly subject to judicial control. There is existing literature which suggests these claims are problematic empirically because of the selective use of case law. This thesis therefore tests the claims of political constitutionalism empirically in the context of the case law in challenges to the austerity programme.
The methodological approach is to identify: (1) the adjudicated judicial review claims that challenged the law and policy that implemented austerity; and (2) the limits of adjudication envisaged by political constitutionalism. The thesis then assesses whether those limits were exceeded in the identified judicial review claims in three modes of judicial decision- making: the interpretation of legislation; the application of common law grounds of review; and adjudication by reference to the European Convention on Human Rights and European Union law.
The thesis finds limited evidence of the judiciary exceeding the limits envisaged by political constitutionalism. It finds, however, some support for political constitutionalism in identifying clear evidence of the judiciary adopting more intensive and less deferential standards of review in challenges to political decision-making relating to the administration of justice
Measuring Neutron Polarisation in Deuteron Photo-disintegration with the CLAS Start Counter
Get PDFDeuteron photo-disintegration (γd → np) is a reaction that represents the simplest case in which nuclear and hadron physics models can be tested. Despite this, associated polarisation analyses are limited in terms of angular coverage and energy ranges, especially in observables related to the recoil neutron. This is largely due to a lack in dedicated polarimetry equipment, and represents a roadblock in global progress to understand high-energy phenomena such as hexaquarks, and quark-gluon degrees of freedom.
To address this problem, this PhD thesis pioneers a new methodology for the parasitic measurement of nucleon polarisation using kinematic reconstruction of (spin-dependent) nucleon-nucleus scattering of reaction products, prior to their detection in large acceptance particle detector apparatus. Following this novel approach, which requires no dedicated polarimeter, a determination of the double polarisation observable, (neutron) Cx', from deuteron photo-disintegration is presented, using Jefferson Lab’s CLAS detector. The analysis utilises the (n,p) charge exchange reaction in CLAS’s "start counter" (plastic scintillator) to determine the final state neutron polarisations. The results present the first ever data for this observable above 0.7 GeV (photon beam energy) and significantly extend the angular range of the world data set. This new data is largely statistically consistent with the previous measurement of neutron Cx′ by Bashkanov et al. (2023) in the overlapping energy range of 0.4-0.7 GeV.
It is planned for the statistical accuracy of the presented result to be increased by the inclusion of additional data. The analysis herein serves as a key proof of concept for future applications, including a recommended similar analysis to be implemented with data from the more modern CLAS12 detector. This paves the way for a plethora of additional analyses using existing data sets that would provide crucial new constraints for hadron and nuclear physics
Towards analytical applications using SABRE-hyperpolarised benchtop NMR
Get PDFBenchtop NMR spectrometers offer an accessible analytical platform due to their low acquisition
and operation costs, as well as their portability. However, their lower magnetic
field strength (1 - 3 T) results in reduced sensitivity and chemical shift dispersion compared
to high-field systems (≥ 7 T), limiting their widespread use in routine analysis. This
thesis explores the potential of benchtop NMR in combination with the hyperpolarisation
technique signal amplification by reversible exchange (SABRE), as an accessible and sensitive
analytical technique. A special focus is placed on 19F NMR measurements to mitigate
spectral congestion.
Integrating SABRE with the multiplet-refocusing pulse sequence SHARPER led to
significant signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) enhancements, as demonstrated in 19F NMR measurements
on a set of fluoropyridines exhibiting diverse scalar coupling patterns. By the
combined effects of SABRE and SHARPER, SNR enhancements of up to 5700-fold were
achieved. A novel variation of the selective SHARPER pulse sequence enabled simultaneous
signal isolation and enhancement for each component of a binary mixture, minimising
signal loss compared to previous versions. The boost in signal enhancement afforded by
SABRE-SHARPER was harnessed to decrease detection limits for this technique, aided by
the use of co-substrates to form a stable polarisation transfer catalyst, resulting in a submicromolar
limit of detection for a model fluoropyridine target. The use of co-substrates
also facilitated the micromolar quantification of this target with an excellent degree of
accuracy and precision.
The scope for this technique was further explored by probing a fluoroamine target, which
contains exchangeable protons and is susceptible to polarisation deviation via SABRE Relay.
Although this unwanted process leads to a sensitivity penalty, which can be minimised
by deuteration of the exchangeable protons, low micromolar limits of detection and
accurate quantification is shown for this analyte. In contrast, fluorocarboxylic acids posed
greater challenges. SABRE enhancements were observed exclusively for their carboxylate
forms and remained modest, with operational detection limits in the low millimolar range
Rab46-dependent trafficking in endothelial cells requires calcium release from NAADP-sensitive channels
Get PDFThe endothelium plays a vital role in haemostasis yet is susceptible to dysfunction. This vascular bed contains a monolayer of cells capable of modulating inflammation. Endothelial cells (ECs) contain potent, bioactive cargo stored within specific storage organelles termed Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs). These contain the pro-thrombotic and pro-inflammatory mediators, angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) and P-selectin which are differentially released in response to vasoactive stimuli. Thrombin (released after vascular injury) or histamine (immunogenic assault) promote WPB cargo release and WPB dysregulation can contribute to an adverse environment, as evidenced in cardiovascular disease.
Rab46 has been shown to localise to Ang2-positive WPBs and is implicated in the regulation of differential cargo release. Rab46 is necessary for the acute immunogenic histamine, but not thrombin, trafficking of these WPBs to the Microtubule Organising Centre (MTOC). This retrograde movement of Rab46 is dependent on dynein motor interactions yet occurs independently of Ca2+. The detachment of Rab46 from the MTOC is a Ca2+-dependent process where Ca2+ binds the EF-hand domain of Rab46 and this source of Ca2+ has been the subject of ongoing investigation. Histamine stimulation elicits a rapid upregulation of nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) within ECs, which is a potent second Ca2+ messenger that targets small, acidic intracellular Ca2+ stores on the endo-lysosomal system.
Nicotinic acid adenosine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) has been shown to indirectly bind via accessory proteins to various lysosomal Ca2+ channels, Two-pore channel 1 (TPC1), Two-pore channel 2 (TPC2) and Transient potential receptor mucolipin 1 (TPRML1) and are candidates for the modulation of Ca2+ signals generated via NAADP to refill or empty the lysosomal Ca2+ pool. Activation of these channels can elicit global Ca2+ rises in cells through Ca2+-induced- Ca2+ release (CICR) exploiting the ER Ca2+ pool as a mechanism to potentiate Ca2+ efflux from lysosomes. Understanding the Ca2+ channels involved in Rab46 dispersal from the MTOC is crucial for elucidating how ECs modulate their secretory response, particularly Ang2 secretion
A Pd-catalysed asymmetric allylic alkylation approach to functionalized nitrogen heterocycles
No full textTo what extent can we have Autonomy in Education?
Get PDFThe question of autonomy in education has been a matter of debate, both within formal education (as formulated in 1870) and in the less common version of learning known as unschooling (Holt, 1972). Whilst formal education tends towards an arbitrary curriculum based on age, unschooling focuses on the autonomy of the learner and their ability to make choices regarding their education (Harris, 2018; Eden, 2024; Ricci, 2012; Illich, 1971; Zaldívar, 2015). However, the topic of autonomy also raises philosophical questions regarding its format, which then leaves the question of how to incorporate greater autonomy into an educational setting.
This thesis has explored the answer to the question ‘To what extent can we have autonomy in learning?’ initially through the comparison of formal education and unschooling and the problematising of the concept of meritocracy, the political and economic challenges and the restrictions that have been placed on children (Ball and Bowe, 2020; Brown and Tannock, 2009). It then discussed the three foundational ideas of the nature of freedom by conducting a detailed analysis of four key thinkers, alongside recent work which has responded to their philosophies. Firstly, looking at Kant and the concept of positive liberty, followed by analysing the work of Nietzsche and Foucault on the concept of determinism and mastery and finally by investigating the work of Freire on the concept of liberation and humanisation (Kant, 1788; Nietzsche, 1887; Foucault, 1987; Freire, 1968). This led to the problematization of the vision of autonomy in education and specifically, how this could work within an educational setting. An original educational model was created, based on the work of Paulo Freire, which provided the reader with a step-by-step method to incorporate the philosophical concept of autonomy into an educational setting, resulting in greater learner responsibility for the process of exploration, amalgamation and creation of learning experiences. The model can be applied in either a formal educational setting or an unschooling environment
How can Ruskin Mill Trust ensure coherence of understanding and implementation of its educational method Practical Skills Therapeutic Education (PSTE), which is informed by Rudolf Steiner’s educational insights, through all levels of the organisation?
Get PDFThis study explores the question ‘How can Ruskin Mill Trust (RMT) ensure coherence of understanding and implementation of its educational method, Practical Skills Therapeutic Education (PSTE), which is informed by Rudolf Steiner’s educational insights, through all levels of the organisation?’ RMT is an educational charity which over the last 40 years has developed a unique educational method for children, young people and adults with a range of challenges, with over 1200 staff in 12 schools and colleges in Wales, England and Scotland. Considering the uniqueness and growth of the charity and the succession of the founder, the study examines the influences that shaped PSTE, the landscape that RMT operates in, the impact of leadership in educational organisations and the process of understanding and implementing an educational method.
The findings from the all-staff survey (n=69), ethnographic workshop observations (13 days), focus groups with direct contact staff (n=2), as well as individual interviews with senior leaders and staff of the organisation (n=15) were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006, 2022). The findings were discussed in three essential questions: How do we understand the method? How do we implement the method (people and systems)? How do we develop the method?
While staff try to understand the method in different ways, they often stumble when it comes to the underlying assumptions, which can challenge their current worldview and often prefer to remain with the day-to-day practical applications which convince. Senior leaders can take this one step further if they are open to and engage firstly in the underlying assumptions and secondly the craft processes, and by doing so transform materials into items of service as well as themselves, engaging in ‘self-generated conscious action’ (Gordon and Cox, 2024). Recommendations for future research, policy and practice within and beyond RMT were made
Qualitative Evidence Synthesis in health and social care guidelines: what is its role and how might it be optimised?
Get PDFPurpose and scope: The body of research reported in this thesis aims to better understand the role of qualitative evidence syntheses (QES) in the development of health (including public health) and social care guideline development, and how its role might be optimised.
Methods: Three studies were undertaken:
• A systematic review of methods and processes used for incorporating QES into health and social care guideline development.
• A quantitative content analysis to understand how frequently QES was undertaken by a leading health and social care guideline producer in the United Kingdom (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), and how closely the reports of those syntheses adhere to established reporting standards.
• A qualitative interview study to explore in-depth the views and perceptions of key committee participants regarding QES in health and social care, and how evidence from QES currently informs the process of developing recommendations.
Results: Key results indicate that, although there is some guidance internationally about how to undertake and integrate QES in guidelines, committee participants in this study struggle with QES, primarily in terms of understanding the purpose, role, and value of the qualitative paradigm, especially in situating it in relation to quantitative approaches. However, QES are perceived as a genuinely valuable tool for increasing stakeholder and lay-member visibility and inclusion.
Conclusions: Methods for using QES in the development of guidelines are underdeveloped and this study of one organisation in the UK indicates that further training for both committee members and staff, alongside methodological development, will enhance the usefulness of this important source of evidence. Further research is suggested alongside practical recommendations for guideline producers
Governing Climate Finance. States, Markets, and Institutional Dynamics in a Low-Carbon Transition
No full textThe mobilization of climate finance is a fundamental challenge in the transition to a low-carbon economy. In this thesis, I contribute to the literature that examines the role of institutional design in shaping an effective mobilization of climate finance through three empirical studies, and I highlight the challenges of matching public rules, regulations, and practices to climate purposes. Overall, I show the importance of aligning formal rules, market incentives, and information provision to support a greening of finance, and the difficulties in deploying public power to support this form of environmental purpose. The first paper investigates the impact of the EU Green Bond Standard (GBS) on green bond pricing, arguing that its introduction increased bond yields as investors adjusted to stricter regulatory scrutiny. The findings suggest that firms with weaker environmental reputations faced a "greenwashing premium," while those with strong sustainability credentials experienced minimal market disruption. This study highlights the effectiveness of public regulation in reducing information asymmetry but also reveals short-term costs for issuers. The second paper examines the European Central Bank’s (ECB) role in green finance by analyzing the unintended anti-green bias embedded in its collateral framework. Through a comparative analysis of green and conventional bonds, the study finds that the ECB applies higher haircuts to green assets, effectively raising borrowing costs for sustainable projects. This institutional bias, driven by market neutrality principles, undermines the financial viability of green bonds and challenges the ECB’s commitment to climate-aligned monetary policy. The paper study evaluates the World Bank’s Maximizing Finance for Development (MFD) framework, which aims to leverage private capital for climate finance in developing economies. Using a qualitative comparative analysis, the study finds that MFD disproportionately benefits middle-income countries while failing to mobilize funds for the most climate-vulnerable nations. The results highlight structural constraints in development finance and the limitations of market-driven approaches in addressing global climate inequities
AI Analysis of Voice to Aid Laryngeal Cancer Diagnosis
Get PDFThe use of patient voice as an indicator of vocal pathologies is a common technique used in clinical practice. In recent years, work has started to increase in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for this task. In this thesis, I focus on the detection of laryngeal cancer from patient voice using AI. Through a scoping literature I found that previous work is ad-hoc in its approaches with no clear advantage in any given method. I also found that the data and code used to create these systems is rarely shared, making it difficult for significant advances to be made. It was also found that previous work does not discuss how these systems will be practically implemented in clinical settings. This area suffers from a lack of publicly available data, and so to increase the amount of available data, I produced a new dataset in collaboration with Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT) containing voice recordings from patients referred on the Urgent Suspected Cancer Referral pathway in Leeds. This dataset has been made available for researchers to use in future research. I created benchmark models on other publicly available datasets to classify patients with benign and malignant vocal pathologies. These models improve upon previously published methods, achieving a balanced accuracy of 73.7%, sensitivity of 72.0%, and specificity of 75.4% using audio features only. Integrating demographic and symptom features improved these methods, achieving a balanced accuracy of 83.7%, sensitivity of 84.0%, and specificity of 83.3%. I thoroughly evaluated these methods and their robustness to variations in recording environments in the form of background noise and reverberation, and found that they were highly sensitive to these factors. I also investigated the effects that different recording devices can have on model performance and found that this can also have significant negative effects. These results show that while there is the possibility for such AI system to be clinically implemented, significant steps must first be taken to prove their robustness to input variation likely to be seen in the real world
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