Existing dimension reduction (DR) methods such as ordinary least squares (OLS) and sliced inverse regression (SIR) often perform poorly in the presence of outliers. Ellipsoidal trimming can be used to create outlier resistant DR methods that can also give useful results when the assumption of linearly related predictors is violated. Theory for SIR and OLS is reviewed, and it is shown that sever...

In this paper, we propose a generative tracking method based on a novel robust linear regression algorithm. In contrast to existing methods, the proposed Least Soft-thresold Squares (LSS) algorithm models the error term with the Gaussian-Laplacian distribution, which can be solved efficiently. Based on maximum joint likelihood of parameters, we derive a LSS distance to measure the difference be...

A new technique for estimating countries’ de facto exchange rate regimes synthesizes two approaches. One approach estimates the implicit de facto basket weights in an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression of the local currency value rate against major currency values. Here the hypothesis is a basket peg with little flexibility. The second estimates the de facto degree of exchange rate flexibi...

Using panel data, this paper tests whether public and private capital have a positive and significant effect on aggregate output and labor productivity for Mexico during the 1960-2001 period. The richer information set made possible by the sectorial data enables this study to utilize the methodologically sound “group-mean” Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) procedure developed by Ped...

producers to hedge feeder cattle and stocker cattle. Feeder cattle prices, and hence basis, varies with cattle type, lot characteristics and location. Producers need to consider these factors when estimating their basis. However, there still remains variability in prices due to volume, or more likely lack of volume, in a particular weight class or in some cases for an entire market. The volume ...

This paper examines the effects of different child-care arrangements on children’s cognitive and social proficiencies at the start of kindergarten. Using data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, we identify effects using OLS, matching and instrumental variables estimates. Overall, center-based care raises reading and math scores, but has a negative effect for socio-behavioral measures....

The present study attempts to test the mechanisms of Export Led Growth in India by taking a timeseries data from 1980-81 to 2008-09. It applies Ordinary Least square (OLS) method to investigate the relationship between Gross National Product, Total Exports, Manufactured Exports and Investment. The results of the study supports the Export Led growth Hypothesis (ELGH) in India.

Zimbabwe’s economy declined between 2000 and 2009. This study detects the economic decline in different regions of Zimbabwe using nighttime light imagery from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Linescan System (DMSP-OLS). We found a good correlation (coefficient = 0.7361) between Zimbabwe’s total nighttime light (TNL) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the period 1992 ...

Historically, the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Linescan System (DMSP-OLS) was the unique satellite sensor used to collect the nighttime light, which is an efficient means to map the global economic activities. Since it was launched in October 2011, the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) sensor on the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP) Satell...

The poor academic performance of students of Nigerian tertiary institution has been a major concern. This paper, however, considers the mode of selection for admission via the University Matriculation Examination (by JAMB), the Post University Matriculation Examination, as well as academic performance after first year in the University. Using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) method of estimating...