Evidential-EM Algorithm Applied to Progressively Censored Observations

Evidential-EM (E2M) algorithm is an effective approach for computing maximum likelihood estimations under finite mixture models, especially when there is uncertain information about data. In this paper we present an extension of the E2M method in a particular case of incom-plete data, where the loss of information is due to both mixture models and censored observations. The prior uncertain information is expressed by belief functions, while the pseudo-likelihood function is derived based on imprecise observations and prior knowledge. Then E2M method is evoked to maximize the generalized likelihood function to obtain the optimal estimation of parameters. Numerical examples show that the proposed method could effectively integrate the uncertain prior infor-mation with the current imprecise knowledge conveyed by the observed data

Precedence-type Test based on Progressively Censored Samples

In this paper, we introduce precedence-type tests for testing the hypothesis that two distribution functions are equal, which is an extension of the precedence life-test rst proposed by Nelson (1963), when the two samples are progressively Type-II censored. The null distributions of the test statistics are derived. Critical values for some combination of sample sizes and censoring schemes for the proposed tests are presented. Then, we present the exact power functions under the Lehmann alternative, and compare the exact power as well as simulated power (under location-shift) of the proposed precedence test based on nonparametric estimates of CDF with other precedence-type tests. We then examine the power properties of the proposed test procedures through Monte Carlo simulations. Two examples are presented to illustrate all the test procedures discussed here. Finally, we make some concluding remarks.Precedence test; Product-limit estimator; Type-II progressive censoring; Life-testing; level of significance; power; Lehmann alternative; Monte Carlo simulations

Topological spin excitations of Heisenberg antiferromagnets in two dimensions

In this paper we discuss the construction and the dynamics of vortex-like topological spin excitations in the Schwinger-boson description of Heisenberg antiferromagnets in two dimensions. The topological spin excitations are Dirac fermions (with gap) when spin value $S$ is a half-integer. Experimental and theoretical implications of these excitations are being investigated.Comment: Latex file, no figur