Even some of Mr Monti's ministers accept privately that one explanation for the widening bond spread is a gradual loss of the government's reforming momentum.
Ranchers and farmers have complained for years about the damage feral pigs can cause, but federal and state officials said the loss of crops, the spread of noxious weeds as the pigs carry seeds to new spots and the stress they put on endangered species and other wildlife is now worse due to a persistent drought that has hammered two-thirds of the country.
While it is inevitable that technology should spread and manufacturing move to less expensive regions closer to developing consumer bases, the loss of technical opportunities and experience in the US will likely reduce our own ability to drive innovation and develop rewarding careers for the future.