Substantial Income Research Articles

Lognormal (re)distribution: A macrofounded theory of inequality

We study how political competition over redistribution determines income inequality under one macrofounded premise: the income distribution is approximately log-normal before and after any policy intervention. The unique equilibrium features substantial income inequality and less than maximal redistribution, even if the voters’ median income is very low. Fitting our model to the US economy, we argue that either the efficiency cost of redistribution is higher than estimates in the literature, or else US’s redistributive policies are optimal for an agent richer than the median voter.

Labor income gap by gender in the Dominican Republic: An analysis of its evolution in the period 2000–2021

The labor income gap between men and women in Latin America remains a barrier to achieving gender equality and sustainable development. In the Dominican Republic, this gap is particularly prevalent in the informal sector, among self employed workers, and in regions with higher female labor participation. Despite women often having a better job profile than men, the gap persists, pointing to the presence of gender biases. This paper aims to analyze the gender-based labor income gap in the Dominican Republic from 2000 to 2021, using data from the National Labor Force Surveys conducted by the National Statistics Office (ONE) and harmonized by the Inter- American Development Bank (IDB). Two models are employed for this analysis: the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition and the Ñopo decomposition. The primary contribution of this paper lies in its long-term analysis of the gap, which provides insight into how it has evolved over time. The findings reveal a significant and statistically substantial labor income gap that cannot be explained by factors such as work experience or economic sector, suggesting that the causes are likely normative or discriminatory. The gap is most pronounced in the informal sector, among self-employed workers, and in regions with higher female labor participation. Although the analysis spans two decades, no clear trend of increase or decrease in the gap was observed. However, the unexplained portion of the gap has widened considerably, indicating a need for further investigation to understand and address this disparity.

From classroom to operating room: What attracts medical students to neurosurgery

BackgroundThe specialties chosen by medical students after graduation are critical to their professional trajectories. This study investigates the perceptions of medical students at Jazan University in southwestern Saudi Arabia toward neurosurgery, focusing on the factors that influence their inclination to pursue this specialty. MethodsAn observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 342 medical students from the Faculty of Medicine at Jazan University during the 2022–2023 academic year. The participants included students ranging from second- to sixth-year levels. ResultsAmong the 342 students, 207 (60.5 %) were males, and 135 (39.5 %) were females, with 169 (49.4 %) expressing interest in neurosurgery. Over time, there was a trend of decreasing interest in neurosurgery. The primary reasons for choosing this specialty were market demand for neurosurgeons and potential for substantial income, while stress was the main deterrent. Multivariate analysis revealed that third-, fourth-, and fifth-year students were significantly less likely to pursue neurosurgery, with reductions of 89 % [OR=0.11, 95 % CI: (0.04–0.29), p < 0.001], 83 % [OR=0.17, 95 % CI: (0.07–0.43), p < 0.001], and 74 % [OR=0.26, 95 % CI: (0.11–0.61), p = 0.002], respectively. The strongest motivating factors for choosing neurosurgery were research opportunities [OR=2.37, p < 0.001] and the prestige associated with the specialty [OR=2.35, p < 0.001]. ConclusionsThe study provides valuable insights into medical students’ perceptions and career aspirations related to neurosurgery in southern Saudi Arabia. It highlights key factors such as research opportunities, prestige, and competitiveness that motivate students to consider neurosurgery as a specialty. The study also addresses common misconceptions and stereotypes about neurosurgery, promoting a more accurate understanding of the field among students. These findings have significant implications for medical education, career guidance, and healthcare policy, helping to shape initiatives that enhance patient care and support the development of neurosurgery.

Private economic impacts of late prostate cancer diagnosis: evidence from New Zealand's integrated data infrastructure

Prostate cancer outcomes significantly depend on its stage and grade at diagnosis. Early detection expands treatment options and improves prognosis and quality of life, especially for working-age men, preserving their ability to support their families and remain actively engaged in society. While research has extensively covered the health and psychological effects of prostate cancer, the socio-economic impacts remain less understood. This study uses data from New Zealand's Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) to examine the relationship between prostate cancer diagnosis and its effects on income and employment. Our analysis, focusing on early-stage and late-stage diagnoses, shows no significant employment differences in the 48 months post-diagnosis between prostate cancer patients and matched controls. However, we observe a reduction in monthly earnings post-diagnosis, with those diagnosed at a late stage experiencing a more substantial income decline.

The effects of fuel subsidies on regional income distribution through smuggling

AbstractFuel subsidies, intended to improve consumer affordability, can result in economic distortions through altered relative prices and negative environmental impacts. Furthermore, these subsidies can lead to unintended consequences, such as fuel smuggling, especially to neighboring countries where significant price differences exist. While previous research has extensively explored the economic dimensions of fuel subsidies, the potential interplay between fuel smuggling and its impact on regional income distribution remains understudied. This study investigates the effects of fuel smuggling, stemming from Iran's long history of significant fuel subsidies, on income distribution across all 30 provinces of the country. We employ a model to specify the demand for fuel smuggling, using fuel prices in neighboring countries and the distance to the nearest border as sources of identification. Subsequently, we estimate the monthly smuggling profit across regions and assess this profit's influence on regional income distribution. Our empirical analysis draws on monthly data on gasoline and diesel sales from 160 fuel distribution districts in Iran, spanning the period from 2005 to 2014. Our findings demonstrate specific cases of smuggling activities that account for an average of 25% of total fuel consumption and generate substantial income in economically disadvantaged border provinces. We discuss the socioeconomic implications of fuel subsidies, with a focus on smuggling activities.

Full analysis and deep learning optimization of a sustainable and eco-friendly power plant to generate green hydrogen and electricity; A zero-carbon approach

Among alternative energy sources for fossil fuels, hydrogen has emerged as a promising candidate; however, its production methods, reliant on fossil fuels, constrain its widespread adoption as a sustainable energy source. To transcend this limitation, researchers have proposed the concept of green hydrogen production, leveraging renewable energy sources, as a viable solution. This study presents a comprehensive techno-economic analysis that seeks to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a multi-generation green power plant in Iran. Extensive climate data from diverse locations across Iran were collected to determine the most influential design parameters. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the entire system, and an innovative neural network algorithm was employed to optimize the objective functions, given the substantial computational time required for the optimization process. The results of the optimization revealed Qeshm island as the optimal location for the green power plant, considering its favorable annual average temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation intensity. Remarkably, the proposed green power plant boasts a robust power generation capacity of 10.1 MW, enabling the production of 250 tons of hydrogen per year, exhibiting a 10 % improvement in exergy efficiency, and a 6 % reduction in LCOE, in comparison to similar studies. Furthermore, it exhibits an impressive total exergy efficiency of 41.6 %, resulting in a substantial annual income of $3.9 million and achieving a commendable payback period of 1.8 years.

Delving the influence of socio-economic, demographic and migration factors on utilization of remittances in the agricultural sector in a high out-migrating region in India

In developing nations, remittances play a vital role in the development of the society. Remittances serve as a substantial income stream for rural households, empowering them to invest in farming activities, procure resources, and enhance their overall quality of life. This study focuses on investigating remittance utilization patterns in agriculture and how do socio-economic, demographic and migration factors influence remittance utilization patterns in agriculture in the Middle Ganga Plain region (Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar) of India? The study utilizes the data from the Middle Ganga Plain (MGP) migration survey (2021) conducted by the International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai. With the help of bivariate analysis, the study explores the relationship between socioeconomic and migration characteristics and the utilization of remittances in the agricultural sector. The Chi-Square test validates the findings, followed by a Binomial Logistic Regression Model for further analysis. The study reveals that marginalized social groups are more inclined to use remittances for agriculture due to their active involvement in agriculture. Furthermore, households with larger landholdings demonstrate an increased likelihood of remittance utilization across all agricultural sectors. Additionally, it was observed that remittances in agriculture were more prevalent among female-headed households. Moreover, parents who are recipients of remittances tend to allocate their funds to agricultural activities. The significant positive correlation between monthly remittance receivers and total agricultural expenses underscores the importance of remittances in rural development. This study provides valuable insights into remittance utilization patterns and associated factors in the agricultural sector, highlighting the need for targeted policies and interventions to enhance the efficient and effective use of remittances in agriculture, ultimately contributing to rural economic growth and development.

Spatial patterns, determinants, future trends, and implications for the sustainable use of terraces abandonment in China

Terrace abandonment in hilly and mountainous regions, particularly in China, has become a significant concern. However, comprehensive assessments of abandonment patterns and underlying causes are still lacking. This paper elucidates the patterns, determinants, and impacts of terraces abandonment in China by using data from a survey of 580 villages across 346 counties and employing spatial analysis and the Heckman two-stage model. Terrace abandonment, which began in the 1990s, has progressively intensified, peaking in 2015. Currently, 51.55% of surveyed villages experience terrace abandonment, affecting 21.17% of households and 8.37% of the total terrace area, with a distinct prevalence in the South and scarcity in the North. Key factors contributing to terrace abandonment include low returns compared to other options, wildlife damage, high engagement in non-farm labor, and substantial non-farm income. In 2021, terrace abandonment led to the loss of 9.36 million tons of grain production capacity, enough to fulfill the yearly consumption requirements of 23.4 million people. Moreover, terrace abandonment undermines the cultural importance of terraced agriculture, reduces tourism potential, and hinders rural rejuvenation. The challenge of terrace abandonment is anticipated to worsen with the increase in non-farm economic activities and ecological restoration projects in hilly and mountainous regions. It is crucial for the government to implement measures to enhance terrace management. These measures include reducing operational costs for large contiguous plots, promoting the cultivation of cash crops to increase revenues from extensive scattered plots, and advocating for the reforestation of agricultural land to enhance the ecological value of remote terraces at higher altitudes. Addressing these issues can achieve sustainable terrace use and management, contributing to broader rural development and ecological goals.

Die EU-Osterweiterung nach 20 Jahren: Kann die Konvergenz sozial und wirtschaftlich nachhaltig gestaltet werden?

Abstract The twenty years since the Eastern Enlargement of the EU in 2004 have generally borne out the hopes that at the time were placed in what was seen as the reunification of the continent. Economic performance in the new member states have steadily converged with those in the EU15. The substantial initial income gaps did lead to very substantial labour migration, some of it of a circular nature. The ensuing problems led to policy initiatives such as the revised posted workers directive and he European Labour Authority. The social model in east-central European countries remains underdeveloped. Among other issues this should be addressed as the EU considers a reinforced cohesion policy and a likely renewed wave of eastern enlargement, which, though, will likely occur under very different conditions.

The impact of land expropriation on changing livelihoods: The case of displaced peri-urban farmers in Kon and Gashena towns, Ethiopia

The research examines how urban growth and land expropriation have affected farming communities in the towns of Gashena and Kon over the past twenty years. The study used a case study approach, utilizing methods such as open-ended interview checklists, structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions. It reveals a significant reduction in available farmland due to horizontal urban growth, leading to the displacement of numerous farm holdings and disruption of agricultural practices. By analyzing municipal data and employing simple regression modeling, the research anticipates further expansion, underscoring persistent urban growth trends. Economic displacement emerges as a pressing issue, as farmers grapple with finding alternative sources of income, exacerbating food insecurity within affected communities. Moreover, the study unveils diverse impacts on displaced farm holdings, including shifts away from agriculture in livelihoods and substantial income losses. The loss of land assets poses a threat to agricultural productivity and community sustainability. Despite assurances from municipal authorities, the lack of support, guidance, and training contributes to community dissatisfaction. The research underscores the interconnectedness of land, food, culture, and identity, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive strategies to address the multifaceted impacts of land expropriation. Recommendations include policy interventions, support for transitioning farmers, promotion of sustainable land use practices, and fulfillment of promises regarding support and infrastructure development. Providing training and guidance services for displaced individuals is also crucial for addressing the challenges of land expropriation effectively.

The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Life Cycle of Tourist Destinations from Tour Operators and Hoteliers' Perspectives

Purpose: This study explores the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector and tourist destinations by expanding the Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) model, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the pandemic's influence on destination and insights for developing effective revitalization strategies for tourism destinations. Design/methodology/approach: Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilizes the TALC model to conduct qualitative interviews with tour operators and hoteliers, aiming to gather nuanced insights into the im-pacts of the pandemic on tourism destinations. Nine tour operators and four hoteliers participated in the online interviews. Data analysis was driven by the interview responses, and thematic analysis was guided by concepts of the COVID-19 pandemic impacts and the six stages of Butler's TALC model. Findings: Severe impact of the pandemic on tourism businesses, encompassing a decline in tourist arrivals, business closures, and substantial job and income loss. Tourist destination impacts can be classified into four distinct stages― stagnation, exploration, involvement, development, and consolidation providing a structured framework for inter―preting the evolving dynamics of tourism destinations. Contextual issues and diverse approaches are suggested to revitalize tourist destinations in order remain attractive, competitive, and sustainable. Research limitations/implications: The restriction of the sample size to only two tourism sectors and generalizing findings due to the exploratory and qualitative nature of the research. Originality/value: It provides insightful of pandemic impacts on tourist destination and relevant strategies, drawing upon Butler's theory. The practical implications for destination management and stakeholder engagement are in-strumental in shaping the development of effective destination management strategies.

Inequality in an Equal Society

AbstractA society in which everybody of a given age has the same income will exhibit substantial income and wealth inequality. We use this idea to empirically quantify inter‐cohort inequality – the share of observed inequality attributable to life‐cycle profiles of income and wealth – using data on male earnings and household wealth. We document that recent increases in income and wealth inequality in the USA and other developed countries are larger than observed rates would suggest due to favourable demographics. That is, while demographic change played a substantial role in the dynamics of income and wealth inequality until 1990, the stark increase in inequality in the USA and elsewhere ever since is despite not because of demographic change. Moreover, we show that there is important variation across countries in the level and trends in the extent of inequality that is due to lifecycle effects, and that taking this into account gives a more nuanced view of cross‐country comparisons.

Equity in oncology care: addressing disparities in cancer treatment in Georgia.

This research delves into the disparities in access to oncology care among cancer patients in Georgia, with a specific focus on the distinct challenges faced by African American (AA) individuals compared to non-African American (Non-AA) counterparts. Leveraging data from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey and supplementary online resources, the study meticulously examines socioeconomic factors, including income, education, and insurance coverage, which significantly influence the quality of cancer care received. The analysis reveals substantial income gaps between AA and Non-AA patients, underscoring the critical implications for healthcare access. Moreover, AA patients exhibit lower rates of full insurance coverage for cancer-related treatments, posing additional barriers to comprehensive care. By investigating the intersections of race, income, and education, the research aims to pinpoint the root causes of these disparities and proposes evidence-based solutions to address the identified challenges. The ultimate objective is to contribute valuable insights that inform targeted policy recommendations and community-based interventions, fostering a more equitable landscape for oncology care in Georgia. This study seeks to amplify awareness and advocate for tangible measures, striving toward healthcare equity for all cancer patients, irrespective of their racial or socioeconomic backgrounds.

Job Loss During the COVID-19 Crisis

Abstract: Massive involuntary job loss is one of the most damaging consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a distressful life event, studies revealed how it can adversely impact one’s well-being, especially when challenges are unmanaged. Using phenomenology as its theoretical lens, this study aimed to provide an understanding of the experiences of sudden job loss among 12 Filipino migrant workers through semistructured online interviews. In particular, it explored the difficulties, coping mechanisms, and critical resources that enabled them to deal with the transition from being substantial income earners to jobless individuals. The analysis underscored the need for a concerted response, especially at the government level, to help mitigate the adverse psychological and economic impact of unemployment among migrant workers.

THE LEGAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE ILLEGALITY OF THRIFTING BUSINESSES IN INDONESIA

&lt;p&gt;Thrifting is the act of purchasing second-hand items, considered a cost-saving measure by buyers. The thrifting phenomenon is not new but has regained popularity among the Indonesian community. The rapid evolution of fashion and the emergence of new trends in a short period make thrifting an attractive choice for individuals who aspire to appear stylish. The allure of thrifting lies in the diverse range of fashion models, typically rare and offered at affordable prices. Therefore, many individuals in Indonesia are inclined to venture into the thrifting business due to its current popularity and the substantial income it generates. This phenomenon captures the attention and provides a strong basis for researchers to delve further into information regarding illegal thrifting activities in Indonesia. Additionally, the researchers conduct further exploration on business permits for thrifting from the government, the existence of Intellectual Property Rights (HKI), and the standards for the quality of traded goods. The researchers employ a qualitative approach with literature study techniques and analysis.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Keywords: Business; Fashion; Import; Thrifting&lt;/p&gt;

Conceptual Framework of B40 Women’s Entrepreneurial Intention in Malaysia using Theory of Planned Behavior

Despite Malaysia's rapid economic growth, a substantial income gap persists, and women-owned businesses remain a minority. The study employs the Theory of Planned Behavior to create a conceptual framework for understanding the factors that influence B40 women's entrepreneurial intentions. It examines the effect of attitude towards entrepreneurship, family support, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy as crucial drivers of women's decisions to engage in entrepreneurship. The research methodology will involve using questionnaires that will be distributed to a diverse sample of B40 women in Malaysia. The implications of the study include contributing to Malaysia's National Entrepreneurship Policy, enhancing support for women entrepreneurs, and motivating more women, particularly those with unstable incomes, to pursue entrepreneurship, thereby fostering greater gender equality and economic development.

Nature sport’s ism problem

ABSTRACT Nature sports have been touted for their value “as ways of pursuing excellence and relating to the environment” (Krein 2014, 207). This value, however, is not widely available, in large part due to structural features that create barriers to access for all but able-bodied white men possessing substantial disposable income. In this paper, we will analyse four ‘isms’ that are prominent in nature sport: ableism, classism/elitism, racism, and sexism/heterosexism. Through an examination of nature sports like surfing, skiing, snowboarding, and climbing, we argue that the current culture of nature sports contains institutionalized isms. If we are to create spaces for inclusion and authentic participation and experiences in nature sports, then change needs to occur. To that end, we will address counterculture(s) and programs that challenge the ism-saturated established norms of nature sports, removing barriers to access and opening value-laden opportunities for all.

Characterization and Environmental Evaluation of Recycled Aggregates from Construction and Demolition Waste in Belgrade City Area (Serbia).

Sustainable consumption of construction materials is an important segment of sustainable development goals towards reducing climate change. Since the consumption of natural aggregates raises environmental concerns, there is an increasing demand for use of recycled aggregates (RAs), as it enhances social and environmental benefits and creates a market opportunity. This paper presents the practice of using recycled construction and demolition waste (CDW) in the Belgrade city area (Serbia) as a resource. Two groups of CDW from Vinča landfill site near Belgrade are analyzed: raw material before, and RAs after, construction of a recycling facility on site. Comprehensive characterization is performed (including particle size distribution, density, water and organic pollutants content, various mechanical resistances, flakiness index, etc.) and compilation of samples analyzed and compared to show a holistic overview. The test outputs in both groups show acceptable values and meet required standards, indicating that recycled CDW generated in the Belgrade area can be used as a substitute to natural aggregates. In addition to that, the environmental and economic benefits from this use as a substitute are analyzed and discussed, proving the substantial income from sold Ras and the landscaping benefits, as well as ecological and economic benefits from energy savings.

Cash crops and local development: the case of cotton in Kouh-est in southern Chad

Cash crops, notwithstanding the environmental degradation they cause, constitute sources of income for producers and the main factor in structuring the rural world and local development in certain countries. It is this problem that this study highlights at the scale of the Kouh-Est Department. To do this, the article carried out bibliographic analysis and field work. 40 leaders of peasant organizations in Kouh-Est were randomly surveyed as well as the sub-sector head of ANADER in Bodo. The result is that cotton cultivation, although having accelerated deforestation due to the extensive nature of agricultural practices in Kouh-Est, contributed to the improvement of the living conditions of cotton farmers. This culture has favored the structuring of the rural world, in particular the emergence of peasant organizations whose role is to facilitate access to agricultural inputs and the dissemination of agricultural techniques. The rebates from the self-managed market system granted to these organizations and the substantial income obtained by cotton farmers make it possible to actively participate in local development actions, particularly in the construction of socio-economic infrastructure (drilling, school, health center, granary or store, …). The new mentality born from the existence of these organizations facilitates the contribution in kind to the creation of these infrastructures. However, permanent access to agricultural credit and strengthening the intervention capacity of cotton growers would boost the dynamics of peasant organizations in Kouh-Est. Also, members of organizations must be careful to ensure sound management of their assets.

The two‐child limit and child poverty in the United Kingdom

AbstractThe United Kingdom two‐child policy was announced in 2015 and began to operate from April 2017. A mother claiming a range of means‐tested benefits who had a third or subsequent child born after 6 April 2017 could not receive a child addition for them, while a new claimant with three or more children would now receive no more than a claimant with two children. Using data from nationally representative annual living conditions surveys for the period up to 2019/20, we find that larger families experienced substantial real income losses since the introduction of the two‐child limit, with proportionally greater losses among those on lower incomes. Income losses among larger families were driven primarily by changes in income penalties to family characteristics, such as the presence of children under three, rather than changes in the distribution of these characteristics. Although this is not a causal analysis, these findings are consistent with a negative impact of the policy change on larger families' incomes.