10,408 research outputs found
Beyond the Knowledge-Based Theory of the Geographic Cluster
The knowledge-based theory of the geographic cluster represents a major attempt to re-conceptualize clusters, in essence arguing that the localization of firms in similar and related industries stimulates learning and innovation, giving a competitive advantage to clustered firms. This paper critically examines the knowledge-based theory the cluster, arguing that it has greatly overstated the advantages of co-location to firms and misidentified the mechanisms through which learning occurs in clusters. In particular, the theory is criticized on three points: the flexible, under-specified way that it defines its object of study; the focus on firms as an explanatory variable instead of more fundamental processes of resource accumulation; and the functionalist mode of theory that employs as an explanation. Ways to address of each of these issues are discussed. In a final section I suggest that the rather static notions of learning put forward in the knowledge-based theory of the cluster be replaced by a developmental theory of regional dynamics that focuses on both learning and structural transformation.geographic cluster, localization, relatedness, knowledge-based theory
Depinning of disordered bosonic chains
We consider one-dimensional bosonic chains with a repulsive boson-boson
interaction that decays exponentially on large length-scales. This model
describes transport of Cooper-pairs in a Josepshon junction array, or transport
of magnetic flux quanta in quantum-phase-slip ladders, i.e. arrays of
superconducting wires in a ladder-configuration that allow for the coherent
tunnelling of flux quanta. In the low-frequency, long wave-length regime these
chains can be mapped to an effective model of a one-dimensional elastic field
in a disordered potential. The onset of transport in these systems, when biased
by external voltage, is described by the standard depinning theory of elastic
media in disordered pinning potentials. We numerically study the regimes that
are of relevance for quantum-phase-slip ladders. These are (i) very short
chains and (ii) the regime of weak disorder. For chains shorter than the
typical pinning length, i.e., the Larkin length, the chains reach a saturation
regime where the depinning voltage does not depend on the decay length of the
repulsive interaction. In the regime of weak disorder we find an emergent
correlation length-scale that depends on the disorder strength. For arrays
shorter than this length the onset of transport is similar to the clean arrays,
i.e., is due to the penetration of solitons into the array. We discuss the
depinning scenarios for longer arrays in this regime.Comment: 11 pages, 6 figure
FTC Guidelines on Endorsements and Online Consumer Reviews: Biasing Consumers\u27 Intent to buy
New FTC guidelines have been created to control improperly used endorsements with online consumer reviews. These guidelines state that bloggers and word-of-mouth marketers must disclose material connections if they are being endorsed in any way, and a paid endorsement is considered deceptive if it makes false or misleading claims. This study examines how this regulation may influence consumersâ attitudes and behaviors regarding online reviews. The present research tests whether: a) previously documented bias effects of negative and positive reviews still exist under new guidelines; b) the minimal FTC requirements are sufficient to properly inform consumers; and c) a more standardized and elaborated statement would be more effective. A total of 276 participants were recruited to read a simulated online consumer review. Participants viewed one of three possible conditions (no endorsement statement, minimal FTC required statement, and modified FTC statement). Participants then rated their intent to buy the product, confidence in the purchase, and the influence of the review on the intent to buy and on confidence. There was a significantly lower intent to buy (p \u3c .01) when the modified FTC statement was utilized, demonstrating the potential need for more standardized guidelines to be utilized in order to protect consumers. Implications of the study are discussed
Methods and products for reawakening retrocyclins
Products and methods are provided for the restoring the endogenous expression of theta-defensins, such as retrocyclin-1, in mamallian cells. The present invention also includes products and methods for inhibiting sexually transmitted virus entry, e.g., HIV-1 virus entry, into a mammalian cell via, for example, administering to a subject an amount of a read-through mediating agent sufficient to induce exogenous expression of an amount of retrocyclin nonapeptides in the mammalian cell
Integrating the Fine Arts
This project seeks to understand and apply research to a lesson plan unit regarding the integration of the fine arts (art and music) into the general education classroom
Multi-photon spectroscopy of a hybrid quantum system
We report on experimental multi-photon spectroscopy of a hybrid quantum
system consisting of a superconducting phase qubit coherently coupled to an
intrinsic two-level defect. We directly probe hybridized states of the combined
qubit-defect system in the strongly interacting regime, where both the
qubit-defect coupling and the driving cannot be considered as weak
perturbations. This regime is described by a theoretical model which
incorporates anharmonic corrections, multi-photon processes and decoherence. We
present a detailed comparison between experiment and theory and find excellent
agreement over a wide range of parameters.Comment: 6 pages, 6 figure
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