Local linear estimation of a generalized regression function with functional dependent data

This work deals with a local linear non parametric estimation of the generalized regression function in the case of a scalar response variable given a random variable taking values in a semimetric space. The rates of pointwise and uniform almost complete convergence are established for the studied estimator when the sample is an α-mixing sequence. Two real datasets are used to illustrate the performance of a studied estimator with respect to the kernel method.     

Asymptotic normality of kernel estimators based upon incomplete data

In this paper, we are concerned with nonparametric estimation of the density and the failure rate functions of a random variable X which is at risk of being censored. First, we establish the asymptotic normality of a kernel density estimator in a general censoring setup. Then, we apply our result in order to derive the asymptotic normality of both the density and the failure rate estimators in the cases of right, twice and doubly censored data. Finally, the performance and the asymptotic Gaussian behaviour of the studied estimators, based on either doubly or twice censored data, are illustrated through a simulation study.     

Housing and building materials in low-income settlements in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) is one of the fastest growing cities in sub-Saharan Africa. As in other sub-Saharan cities, government housing programmes have reached only a tiny percentage of urban residents. The vast majority either build for themselves or live as tenants in swahili houses provided by others. This paper examines the process of house building in Dar es Salaam through a survey of 90 house-owners in nine low-income settlements in the city. It is shown that in the past decade the price of manufactured building materials has risen steeply following the implementation of liberalisation policies. Despite this, house owners still strive to build modern houses in concrete blocks, which offer higher standards of comfort and security as well as bringing in higher income from rents. Those who cannot afford to do so, are obliged either to rent one or more rooms in a house constructed by others or to build a modest house using traditional materials. Although these materials are available in the market, some housebuilders still collect their own. There is evidence of increasing distance from the source, the substitution of inferior species and declining quality, all of which indicate that resources are coming under pressure.     

Shelter Provision in the Context of Deforestation: Some Evidence From Mali

Deforestation in many parts of the developing world has to led to a deterioration in both the quantity and the quality of wood (timber) available for housebuilding, threatening the viability of traditional building techniques. This paper examines the effects of a deteriorating resource base upon traditional house building practices in Mopti (Mali), where the most common traditional house type requires large quantities of strong and durable timber for the construction of the roof. It is shown that the favoured “rônier” wood is no longer accessible to the poorer sections of the population, who have no alternative but to use lower quality wood and less durable species. This in turn means more frequent replacement and maintenance, thus putting greater pressure on the available natural resources, and on household budgets. Those who cannot afford to maintain their houses, live in a state of insecurity due to the fear of collapse from poor construction. The implications for policy are explored, both in Mali and in the wider context. Options include support for the introduction of new building techniques and for the planting of trees which provide good timber for building.     

Supermarkets in Low‐income Mediterranean Countries: Impacts on Horticulture Systems

In the past decade, supermarkets have spread rapidly in the low‐income Mediterranean countries. Focusing on a case of advanced supermarket diffusion (Turkey) and of incipient diffusion (Morocco), this article examines this development and its impact on the fresh fruits and vegetable sector, emphasising the level of backward integration by the retailers into the supply chain and the type of retailer‐supplier governance structure. Both countries' food sectors resemble those of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) transition countries in their shift from a mixed traditional/staterun/owned retail system to a liberalised system. Moreover, Turkey is also on the road to joining the European Union, and is classed in policy discussions with the CEE candidates.