Brane intersections, anti-de Sitter spacetimes and dual superconformal theories

We construct a class of intersecting brane solutions with horizon geometries of the form adS_k x S^l x S^m x E^n. We describe how all these solutions are connected through the addition of a wave and/or monopoles. All solutions exhibit supersymmetry enhancement near the horizon. Furthermore we argue that string theory on these spaces is dual to specific superconformal field theories in two dimensions whose symmetry algebra in all cases contains the large N=4 algebra A_{gamma}. Implications for gauged supergravities are also discussed.Comment: Latex, 32 pages; references added and minor addition

The role and place of ECEC in integrated working benenfitting vulnerable groups such as Roma

The main purpose of this report is to examine the added value provided by, and the prerequisites for, integrated working – as well as the crucial role played by ECEC services – in order to better serve all families, but especially vulnerable and disadvantaged children and families. Separate attention is devoted to Roma children and their families as one of the most vulnerable groups in Europe, often trapped in a vicious circle of poverty, exclusion and discriminatio

Quali competenze per i professionisti della prima infanzia?

The close connection between the quality of provision for young children and professionaliation of the field has long been supported by international research. That the two are inseparable aspects of one picture is beginning to become accepted at European policy level, as evident in recent high level EU policy documents. This article explores the reciprocal relationship between quality and professionalisation, drawing on the findings of the study on ‘competence requirements in early childhood education and care’ (CoRe), jointly conducted by the University of East London and the University of Gent, and funded by the European Commission. Based on a review of literature in several European languages and data from a 15 country survey and seven in-depth case studies, CoRe has identified systemic conditions for a professionalisation of the entire early childhood system, beyond the formal qualification levels of individual practitioners. The article argues for a critical and systemic reconceptualisation of professional practice in a competent system

A meeting place for policy-makers and researchers : the Transatlantic forum on inclusive early years

While policy-makers and researchers in the field of early childhood education and care (ECEC) often seem to speak different languages, overwhelming research evidence on how quality ECEC can play a key role in alleviating the effects of disadvantage can be extremely relevant for policy-makers. In this article, we focus on how philanthropic foundations can facilitate the dialogue and bring together researchers, policy-makers and stakeholders on (particularly quality) issues in ECEC. In this article, we present a comprehensive advocacy project, designed by 13 philanthropic foundations on both sides of the Atlantic, under the leadership of the King Baudouin Foundation (KBF) (Belgium). This group of foundations wants to clarify, discuss and document some of the most relevant issues in ECEC at this point, with a focus on children from low-income and migrant families. Meetings have already taken place on accessibility, professionalisation and curriculum, parent involvement and evaluation. With the fifth forum - on integrated systems in ECEC - on its way, it is time for a short recap. Can meeting opportunities of this kind, for a limited group of policy-makers, successfully influence policy