Generalized Global Defect Solutions

We investigate the presence of defect structures in generalized models described by real scalar field in $(1,1)$ space-time dimensions. We work with two distinct generalizations, one in the form of a product of functions of the field and its derivative, and the other as a sum. We search for static solutions and study the corresponding linear stability on general grounds. We illustrate the results with several examples, where we find stable defect structures of modified profile. In particular, we show how the new defect solutions may give rise to evolutions not present in the standard scenario in higher spatial dimensions.Comment: RevTex, 10 pages, 2 figures; version to appear in EPJ

School dropout, problem behaviour and poor academic achievement : a longitudinal view of portuguese male offenders

This study examines school drop outs from the perspective of male adults themselves through interviews with offenders currently serving sentences. Participants were 10 Portuguese male inmates, between the ages of 19 and 46 years of age, incarcerated in two prison facilities of the Azores. Qualitative and interpretative methods were carried out using a semi-structured in-depth individual interview that was audiorecorded and conducted on the basis of a list of topics. Interview transcripts and thematic analysis were used in data treatment and analysis. The findings primarily indicate that poor academic achievement and emotional and behavioural difficulties of participants played a particular role in early school drop out. The trajectories these individuals followed within the education system presented problem behaviour, learning disabilities, and/or foster care interventions. While school drop out circumstances were apparently various, analysis showed that they were underpinned by three distinct sets of conditions generally not addressed by the education system. The analysis of the triggering factors and the maintenance dynamics of school drop outs indicated three distinct types: retention/absenteeism, life turning points and positive resolution. Implications for secondary prevention and screening practices are discussed.FCT (SFRH/ BD/ 44245/ 2008)CIEC - unidade de investigação 317 da FC