Bayesian Hierarchical Model with Skewed Elliptical Distribution

Meta-analysis refers to quantitative methods for combining results from independent studies in order to draw overall conclusions. We consider hierarchical models including selection models under a skewed heavy tailed error distribution and it is shown to be useful in such Bayesian meta-analysis. A general class of skewed elliptical distribution is reviewed and developed. These rich class of models combine the information of independent studies, allowing investigation of variability both between and within studies, and weight function. Here we investigate sensitivity of results to unobserved studies by considering a hierarchical selection model and use Markov chain Monte Carlo methods to develop inference for the parameters of interest.