Extrapolation of the mean lifetime of a large population from its preliminary survival history

A large population of independent identical units having finite mean lifetime T is observed. From the history A(y) of cumulative arrivals and the history B(y) of cumulative removals in the interval 0 ≦ y ≦ τ one must predict at time τ the desired T . Two lifetime predictors X(τ) and Y(τ) and related simple predictors obtained from A(y) and B(y) are shown to converge to T with a rate of convergence dependent on the structure of the failure rate function of the units. This dependence is studied theoretically and numerically.     

Un(wo)manned aerial vehicles: an assessment of how unmanned aerial vehicles influence masculinity in the conflict arena

Through the construction of masculinity in the military and technological advancements in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, prevailing gender norms of masculinity are being challenged. This article bridges the gap in studies of military technology and ethical dilemmas in the use of force, stressing the impact of prevailing hyper-masculinization in the future of warfare. To strengthen appreciation of hegemonic masculinity in militaries and emerging technological capabilities on the genderization of war, this article applies literature from a variety of fields, including critical gender studies, robotics and military organizations. While a case can be made that genderization of war is inclined towards feminization of battle ground, a deeper analysis of drones and military technology reveals that a state of hyper-masculinity will be more typical of future of warfare. In evaluating the aspects that drones bring to a conflict, it might initially seem that the technology challenges previously dominant masculinity. However, upon further evaluation, it is apparent that the traits of drones and other emerging military technologies support the masculinities currently present, and make armed conflict increasingly hyper-masculinized.