RESPONSE OF UNREINFORCED MASONRY BUILDINGS

Abstract

A summary of dynamic measurements are presented that illustrate relations between linear seismic demand and true nonlinear response of unreinforced masonry buildings with flexible diaphragms and rocking piers subjected to a series of simulated earthquake motions.     

Spatial Clustering and the Potential for Policy Practice: Experiences from Cluster-building Processes in Sweden

In the last decade, there has been an increased interest in the cluster approach as a regional development tool. Moreover, it has been increasingly acknowledged that TIME (Telekom, IT, Media and Entertainment) industries have come to be of great importance to the economy. This article sets out to examine the use of the cluster approach as an analytical tool as well as a proactive policy tool and an approach based on negotiated and collaborative efforts to manufacture and utilize 'visions' of regional development futures to good effect. Consequently, the intent is not to judge the economic performance of firms in the three case clusters but rather to demonstrate problems and prospects in regional TIME industry cluster-building.     

The Role of Location and Regional Networks for Biotechnology Firms in Israel

This article presents results of a study of the Israeli biotechnology sector. The findings of the study show that despite the small geographical size of the country, the Israeli biotechnology industry tends to a great extent to cluster around leading research institutes. Based on a survey of 109 high-tech projects, the study suggests that the relatively weak business background of the entrepreneurs, the fact that most of them have worked at research institutes and that most new biotechnology firms were originated from ideas that came out of universities or research institutes, can provide possible explanations for this geographical concentration. The research emphasizes the relative importance biotechnology entrepreneurs ascribe to networking, both in very early stages as well as in advanced stages of the firm development process. It is argued that although the focus of the network changes over time, both geographically and in content, its links to local research partners are maintained. It is suggested that earmarked regional support policies are crucial to the development of networks required by new biotechnology firms.