AM with Multiple Merlins

We introduce and study a new model of interactive proofs: AM(k), or Arthur-Merlin with k non-communicating Merlins. Unlike with the better-known MIP, here the assumption is that each Merlin receives an independent random challenge from Arthur. One motivation for this model (which we explore in detail) comes from the close analogies between it and the quantum complexity class QMA(k), but the AM(k) model is also natural in its own right. We illustrate the power of multiple Merlins by giving an AM(2) protocol for 3SAT, in which the Merlins' challenges and responses consist of only n^{1/2+o(1)} bits each. Our protocol has the consequence that, assuming the Exponential Time Hypothesis (ETH), any algorithm for approximating a dense CSP with a polynomial-size alphabet must take n^{(log n)^{1-o(1)}} time. Algorithms nearly matching this lower bound are known, but their running times had never been previously explained. Brandao and Harrow have also recently used our 3SAT protocol to show quasipolynomial hardness for approximating the values of certain entangled games. In the other direction, we give a simple quasipolynomial-time approximation algorithm for free games, and use it to prove that, assuming the ETH, our 3SAT protocol is essentially optimal. More generally, we show that multiple Merlins never provide more than a polynomial advantage over one: that is, AM(k)=AM for all k=poly(n). The key to this result is a subsampling theorem for free games, which follows from powerful results by Alon et al. and Barak et al. on subsampling dense CSPs, and which says that the value of any free game can be closely approximated by the value of a logarithmic-sized random subgame.Comment: 48 page

Human Cranial Growth and Shape Change: Are Fetal Rates and Morphologies Extended Throughout the First Year of Life?

Selection for increased encephalization in humans necessitated extensive brain growth after birth. To estimate changes in rates of growth and corresponding shape changes during gestation and infancy, chord and arc distances were obtained from the frontal, parietal, and occipital bones of 44 human fetuses, neonates, and infants (one year old and younger). Rates of growth in chord and arc measurements were calculated and compared using linear regression of log-transformed variables, followed by ANCOVA. Curvature of bone lengths and widths were estimated by chord/arc indices. Fetal rates of cranial growth were significantly slower while the fetal frontal and occipital bones were significantly more curved than those of infants. Fetal rates of cranial growth decrease during the first six postnatal months, in conjunction with rapid changes in shape, except for parietal superior-inferior height where bossing of the bone is similar in fetuses and neonates

SEM of service quality to predict overall patient satisfaction in medical clinics: a case study

This study analyzed patient satisfaction surveys to determine which process attributes affect overall patient satisfaction. The authors conclude that the strongest impact is the care provider\u27s interaction with the patient. Healthcare providers/practitioners value business analytics as a means to focus and redirect their continuous improvement efforts and to encourage appropriate provider behavior. The data for this research were gathered from patient satisfaction surveys from 18 diverse medical clinics in a rural, Midwestern U.S. healthcare system. Overall patient satisfaction was measured by four separate variables. Quality service was measured by five dimensions and related constructs. All were measured through the use of a five-point Likert-scaled survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were applied to identify the factors that impact overall patient satisfaction at the clinics. This research, and the surveys from which the data were derived, focus on process dimensions of service quality, rather than the technical aspects of the healthcare delivery system

Paediatrics : how to manage scabies

This narrative review addresses scabies, a highly contagious, pruritic infestation of the skin caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis. Scabies is a common disorder that has a prevalence worldwide estimated to be between 200 and 300 million cases per year. Infestation is of greatest concern in children, the elderly, immunocompromised people and resource-poor endemic populations at risk of chronic complications. A diagnosis of scabies involves a clinical suspicion, a detailed targeted history, clinical examination and contact tracing. Dermoscopy and microscopy, where available, is confirmatory. Due to its infectivity and transmissibility, the management for scabies requires a multimodal approach: topical antiscabetic agents are the first line for most cases of childhood classic scabies and their contacts, which must also be identified and treated to prevent treatment failure and reacquisition. Environmental strategies to control fomite-related reinfestation are also recommended. Oral ivermectin, where available, is reserved for use in high-risk cases in children or in mass drug administration programmes in endemic communities. The prevention of downstream complications of scabies includes surveillance, early identification and prompt treatment for secondary bacterial infections, often superficial but can be serious and invasive with associated chronic morbidity and mortality. Postscabetic itch and psychosocial stigma are typical sequelae of the scabies mite infestation. The early identification of patients with scabies and treatment of their contacts reduces community transmission. Although time consuming and labour intensive for caregivers, the implementation of appropriate treatment strategies usually results in prompt cure for the child and their contacts. Here, we provide a summary of treatments and recommendations for the management of paediatric scabies

THE STRUCTURE OF EMPLOYMENT AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN A DECLINING RURAL COMMUNITY

Labor and Human Capital,

Contingent Information Content of Order Backlog and the Direction of Sales Change

We examine the contingent information content of order backlog and the direction of sales change. The more significant the order backlog, the less likely it is for future sales and thus earnings to decrease. As a result, an additional unit of order backlog predicts a more significant increase in future earnings and stock price when the firm also reports a sales decrease. The contingency of the information content is so significant that a sales decrease is no longer bad news when a firm reports above the top fiftieth percentile of order backlog relative to average assets. Our results support a contextual fundamental analysis theory in which the implication of an accounting measure can depend on other accounting information, and the impact of the context can be strong enough to overturn the qualitative interpretation

Refund to Savings: 2013 Evidence of Tax-Time Saving in a National Randomized Control Trial

Refund to Savings: 2013 Evidence of Tax-Time Saving in a National Randomized Control Tria

Refund to Savings: 2013 Results From a National Experiment to Build Financial Stability at Tax Time

Refund to Savings: 2013 Results From a National Experiment to Build Financial Stability at Tax Tim

Groundwater Conservation Districts: Success Stories

8 pp., 4 color photos, 1 mapDemand for water is increasing, so our aquifers must be conserved and protected. The Groundwater Conservation Districts in Texas are carrying out a number of successful programs in the areas of education and public awareness, technical assistance, financial assistance, special projects and research