Note on sums of a random number of random variables with exponential family distributions

With the help of the result that exponential-type families are determined by their mean value functions it is shown that stochastic independence of the random variables S_N and N-S_N characterizes the Poisson and Bernoulli distributions simultaneously.     

Joint Moment Generating Functions of Nonadjacent Dual Generalized Order Statistics from Reflected Generalized Pareto Distributions

In this article, a class of reflected generalized Pareto distributions (cf. Burkschat et al., 2003 Burkschat , M. , Cramer , E. , Kamps , U. ( 2003 ). Dual generalized order statistics . Metron LXI ( 1 ): 13 – 26 . [Google Scholar]) is considered. Recurrence relations for joint moment generating functions of higher non adjacent dual generalized order statistics based on a random sample drawn from the considered class are derived. Higher joint moments of non adjacent dual generalized order statistics (reversed ordered order statistics and lower k-records as special cases) are obtained. Recurrence relations for single and product moment generating functions and moments of higher non adjacent dual generalized order statistics are derived. Some results of higher moments of non adjacent generalized order statistics from generalized Pareto distributions (cf. Johnson et al., 1995 Johnson , N. L. , Kotz , S. , Balakrishnan , N. ( 1995 ). Continuous Univariate Distributions. , 2nd ed. Vol. 2. New York : Wiley & Sons . [Google Scholar]), are obtained by using a relation connecting higher moments of generalized order statistics and its dual.     

Unification of Dirichlet Methodology

In this article we provide a unified framework for solving Dirichlet related probability and waiting time problems. We consider a Pólya sampling scheme in which each time an object is selected, it is put back into the population along with c additional objects of the same type. By considering both fixed sample size and inverse sampling procedures, we unify the Dirichlet I, J, C, and D functions with their hypergeometric counterparts by extending these functions to Pólya sampling. We then use these functions to unify and extend the corresponding expected waiting time results.     

A Numerical Method for Estimating the Variance of Age at Maximum Growth Rate in Growth Models

Studies on maturation and body composition mention age at peak height velocity (PHV) as an important measure that could predict adulthood outcome. The age at PHV is often derived from growth models such as the triple logistic fitted to the stature (height) data. Theoretically, for a well-behaved growth function, age at PHV could be obtained by setting the second derivative of the growth function to zero and solving for age. Such a solution obviously depends on the parameters of the growth function. Therefore, the uncertainty in the estimation of age at PHV resulting from the uncertainty in the estimation of the growth model, need to be accounted for in the models in which it is used as a predictor. Explicit expressions for the age at PHV and, consequently the variance of the estimate of the age at PHV, do not exist for some of the commonly used nonlinear growth functions, such as the triple logistic function. Once an estimate of this variance is obtained, it could be incorporated in subsequent modeling either through measurement error models or by using the inverse variances as weights. A numerical method for estimating the variance is implemented. The accuracy of this method is demonstrated through comparisons in models where explicit solution for the variance exists. The method of estimating the variance is illustrated by applying to growth data from the Fels study and subsequently used as weights in modeling two adulthood outcomes from the same study.     

On C pk Assessment in the Presence of Tool Wear

Process capability indices are routinely used in manufacturing industries for process monitoring. A basic assumption while using process capability indices is that there are no assignable causes of variation present. However, when variation due to an assignable cause is present and is tolerated, the conventional methods of capability measurement become inaccurate. In this article, we suggest an estimate of C_pk assuming that the process capability changes dynamically. We obtain an exact form of the sampling distribution in the presence of a systematic assignable cause. We discuss the problem of testing whether a given process is capable. The critical values for different sample sizes are obtained based on the sampling distribution. An example involving tool wear problem is presented.     

Estimators for the Finite Mixture of Rayleigh Model Based on Progressively Censored Data

In this article, based on progressively Type-II censored samples from a heterogeneous population that can be represented by a finite mixture of two-component Rayleigh lifetime model, the problem of estimating the parameters and some lifetime parameters (reliability and hazard functions) are considered. Both Bayesian and maximum likelihood estimators are of interest. A class of natural conjugate prior densities is considered in the Bayesian setting. The Bayes estimators are obtained using both the symmetric (squared error) loss function, and the asymmetric (LINEX and General Entropy) loss functions. It has been seen that the estimators obtained can be easily evaluated for this type of censoring by using suitable numerical methods. Finally, the performance of the estimates have been compared on the basis of their simulated maximum square error via a Monte Carlo simulation study.     

Estimation and Prediction for Exponentiated Family of Distributions Based on Records

In this article, a family of distributions, namely the exponentiated family of distributions, is defined and for the unknown parameters, different point estimates are derived based on record statistics. Prediction for future record values is presented from a Bayesian view point. Two numerical examples and a Monte Carlo simulation study are presented to illustrate the results.     

On Sharp Jensen's Inequality and Some Unusual Applications

The purpose of this article is two-fold. First, we find it very interesting to explore a kind of notion of optimality of the customary Jensen-bound among all Jensen-type bounds. Without this result, the customary Jensen-bound stood alone simply as just another bound. The proposed notion and the associated optimality are important given that in some situations the Jensen's inequality does leave us empty handed.

When it comes to highlighting Jensen's inequality, unfortunately only a handful of nearly routine applications continues to recycle time after time. Such encounters rarely produce any excitement. This article may change that outlook given its second underlying purpose, which is to introduce a variety of unusual applications of Jensen's inequality. The collection of our important and useful applications and their derivations are new.     

Estimating the order of moving average models: the max X2 method

The max X² technique for estimating rhe order of autoregressive processes (McClave (1976)) is extended to moving average models. The autöregressive-moving average duality is exploited by using the inverse autocorrelation function and the subset autoregression algorithm. The technique is demonstrated via simulations, and is applied to Box and Jenkins (1970) Series A.     

Progressively censored tests for clinical experiments and life testing problems based on weighted empirical distributions

In the context of time-sequential studies, progressively censored tests for a simple regression model based on weighted empirical distributions are considered for ungrouped as well as grouped data situations. Early decision rules based on such tests are formulated. The asymptotic theory of the proposed tests rests on a construction of suitable empirical processes and their convergence (in distribution) to appropriate Gaussian functions. Critical values of the proposed test statistics are obtained by simulation, For a hypothetical example (of practical interest), a comparative study is made for the empirical powers and stopping times for some rival tests.