We consider a generalized method of moments framework in which a part of the data vector is missing for some units in a completely unrestricted, potentially endogenous way. In this setup, the parameters of interest are usually only partially identified. We characterize the identified set for such parameters using the support function of the convex set of moment predictions consistent with the data. This identified set is sharp, valid for both continuous and discrete data, and straightforward to estimate. We also propose a statistic for testing hypotheses and constructing confidence regions for the true parameter, show that standard nonparametric bootstrap may not be valid, and suggest a fix using the bootstrap for directionally differentiable functionals of Fang and Santos (2019). A set of Monte Carlo simulations demonstrates that both our estimator and the confidence region perform well when samples are moderately large and the data have bounded supports.
Saving for retirement has traditionally been compared to a three-legged stool supported by Social Security benefits, workplace pensions, and personal savings. As the prevalence of defined benefit pensions has diminished in recent decades, the importance of personal savings has grown. To enable and encourage saving among lower-income Americans, policymakers have established several types of tax incentives. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) provides an immediate reduction in income tax liability (or a larger refund) for eligible households. Additionally, certain types of retirement saving accounts and defined contribution saving plans lower current tax liability by deferring taxation of the amounts contributed until the funds are withdrawn in retirement. Using data from the Understanding America Study, this article compares the retirement-related financial behavior and preparedness of EITC-eligible and ineligible households and examines whether EITC eligibility affects the use of tax-advantaged retirement saving plans.
Farmers’ organisations in the European Union are usually portrayed as strong interest groups, possessing significant resources and able to influence state policy in many ways. This picture, however, conflicts with the situation in many new EU member states. In addition, there is a lack of in-depth research on the power of farmer organisations in postsocialist countries. This paper therefore aims to empirically explore the perceived power and resources of national farmers’ associations and the channels they use to influence agricultural policy. Members’ subjective beliefs were investigated, as they may provide additional information on the effectiveness of interest groups’ activities, such as the farmers’ mobilisation process. Using unique micro-survey data and structural equation modelling, it was shown that farmers’ associations in Poland are perceived by their members as more powerful if they have more resources, especially those stemming from cooperation among organisations.
IntroductionIndia, with its rapidly aging population, faces an alarming burden of dementia. We implemented DSM-5 criteria in large-scale, nationally representative survey data in India to characterize the prevalence of mild and major Neurocognitive disorder.MethodsThe Harmonized Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD) (N = 4,096) is a nationally representative cohort study in India using multistage area probability sampling methods. Using neuropsychological testing and informant reports, we defined DSM-5 mild and major neurocognitive disorder, reported its prevalence, and evaluated criterion and construct validity of the algorithm using clinician-adjudicated Clinical Dementia Ratings (CDR)®.ResultsThe prevalence of mild and major neurocognitive disorder, weighted to the population, is 17.6% and 7.2%. Demographic gradients with respect to age and education conform to hypothesized patterns. Among N = 2,390 participants with a clinician-adjudicated CDR, CDR ratings and DSM-5 classification agreed for N = 2,139 (89.5%) participants.DiscussionThe prevalence of dementia in India is higher than previously recognized. These findings, coupled with a growing number of older adults in the coming decades in India, have important implications for society, public health, and families. We are aware of no previous Indian population-representative estimates of mild cognitive impairment, a group which will be increasingly important in coming years to identify for potential therapeutic treatment.
Charcoal is a product obtained by heating wood at high temperatures. Its use dates back to ancient times. In Ivory Coast, its production began in the 19th century with explorers. Thus, over the years, charcoal production activity has developed more and more in several regions of the country, this is the case in the north, more precisely in the Poro region. The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of charcoal production on the environment and on the health of the producer in the department of Korhogo, capital of Poro. The survey took place in the villages of Gogbala, Kiémou, Bermavogo, Tangafla and Binguébougou with a sample of fifty (50) producers. The combination of the qualitative and quantitative approach was favored to carry out the field surveys. The results show that the production of charcoal has negative consequences on the environment and on the health of the actors, although this activity is quite profitable for this population. In terms of the forest environment, the harmful effects of this activity are seen through deforestation and the disappearance of certain plant species which have a major importance in the habits and customs of local populations. In terms of the health of producers, it has significant negative effects on the deterioration of their health. Indeed, the activity causes serious lung diseases (lung cancer, bronchitis, bright coughs, etc.). Also, it is important to remember that despite its profitability, charcoal production causes quite considerable illnesses in the different production areas. It is therefore important to take a closer look at this activity which remains informal and traditional in the department in order to minimize its effects on the environment in general and in particular on the producer. Keywords: Impact, production, charcoal, environment, health, Korhogo DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/14-1-07 Publication date: February 28 th 2024
