USp(2k) Matrix Model: Schwinger-Dyson Equations and Closed-Open String Interactions

We derive the Schwinger-Dyson/loop equations for the USp(2k) matrix model which close among the closed and open Wilson loop variables. These loop equations exhibit a complete set of the joining and splitting interactions required for the nonorientable Type I superstrings. The open loops realize the SO(2n_f) Chan-Paton factor and their linearized loop equations derive the mixed Dirichlet/Neumann boundary conditions.Comment: 22 pages, 13 figure

USp(2k) Matrix Model

We review the construction and theoretical implications of the USp(2k) matrix model in zero dimension introduced in ref. \cite{IT1,IT2}. It is argued that the model provides a constructive approach to Type I superstrings and is at the same time dynamical theory of spacetime points. Three subjects are discussed : semiclassical pictures and series of degenerate perturbative vacua associated with the worldvolume representation of the model, the formation of extended (D-)objects from the fermionic integrations via the (non-)abelian Berry phase, and the Schwinger-Dyson/loop equations which exhibit the joining-splitting interactions required. Lectures presented at the 13th Nishinomiya-Yukawa Memorial Symposium ``Dynamics of Fields and Strings'' (November 12-13,1998) and at the YITP workshop (November 16-18, 1998).Comment: 32 pages, Latex with PTPTex.sty, 16 epsf figure

Determinant formula for the six-vertex model with reflecting end

Using the Quantum Inverse Scattering Method for the XXZ model with open boundary conditions, we obtained the determinant formula for the six vertex model with reflecting end.Comment: 10 page

Environmental change pattern in central Japan as revealed by LANDSAT data

The author has identified the following significant results. A patched cirrus reported by weather stations was hardly recognizable by the eye in LANDSAT MSS data of a three year time lapse. The cloud cover affected radiance values significantly in band 4, while its effect was minimal in bands 6 and 7 (near infrared spectra). The cross correlation coefficient analysis between the two images indicated that the highest value obtained in central Japan was 0.963 for the area where little change occurred in land use over the three period. An analysis of land use in Nagoya showed little change in the metropolitan area while a fairly large change occurred in the northern periphery of the city where large scale housing projects are located

String Field Theory from IIB Matrix Model

We derive Schwinger-Dyson equations for the Wilson loops of a type IIB matrix model. Superstring coordinates are introduced through the construction of the loop space. We show that the continuum limit of the loop equation reproduces the light-cone superstring field theory of type IIB superstring in the large-N limit. We find that the interacting string theory can be obtained in the double scaling limit as it is expected.Comment: 21 pages, Latex, 1 figur

Combining Rasch and cluster analysis: a novel method for developing rheumatoid arthritis states for use in valuation studies

Purpose: Health states that describe an investigated condition are a crucial component of valuation studies. The health states need to be distinct, comprehensible, and data-driven. The objective of this study was to describe a novel application of Rasch and cluster analyses in the development of three rheumatoid arthritis health states. Methods: The Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) was subjected to Rasch analysis to select the items that best represent disability. K-means cluster analysis produced health states with the levels of the selected items. The pain and discomfort domain from the EuroQol-5D was incorporated at the final stage. Results: The results demonstrate a methodology for reducing a dataset containing individual disease-specific scores to generate health states. The four selected HAQ items were bending down, climbing steps, lifting a cup to your mouth, and standing up from a chair. Conclusions: Overall, the combined use of Rasch and cluster analysis has proved to be an effective technique for identifying the most important items and levels for the construction of health states

Combining Rasch and cluster analysis: a novel method for developing rheumatoid arthritis states for use in valuation studies

Purpose: Health states that describe an investigated condition are a crucial component of valuation studies. The health states need to be distinct, comprehensible, and data-driven. The objective of this study was to describe a novel application of Rasch and cluster analyses in the development of three rheumatoid arthritis health states. Methods: The Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) was subjected to Rasch analysis to select the items that best represent disability. K-means cluster analysis produced health states with the levels of the selected items. The pain and discomfort domain from the EuroQol-5D was incorporated at the final stage. Results: The results demonstrate a methodology for reducing a dataset containing individual disease-specific scores to generate health states. The four selected HAQ items were bending down, climbing steps, lifting a cup to your mouth, and standing up from a chair. Conclusions: Overall, the combined use of Rasch and cluster analysis has proved to be an effective technique for identifying the most important items and levels for the construction of health states.health state; Rasch analysis; cluster analysis; quality of life; rheumatoid arthritis