MINYANVILLE ORIGINAL The jobs situation in the United States improved by as much as economists expected in December. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 155 000 and the unemployment rate ticked up to 7.8%. The participation rate held at 63.6%. A few sectors shed workers. Retail trade let go of 11 300 people government lost 13 000 and information services lost 9 000. There was a notable comeback in construction and manufacturing which added 30 000 and 25 000 respectively. Health-care employment rose by 55 000 last month. After the jobs report was released this morning stock futures showed modest gains. ...