Meta Analysis in Model Implementation: Choice Sets and the Valuation of Air Quality Improvements

We document the sensitivity of welfare estimates derived from discrete choice models to assumptions about the choice set. Such assumptions can affect welfare estimates through both the estimated parameters of the model and, conditional on the parameters, the substitution among alternatives. Our analysis involves estimates of the benefits of air quality improvements in Los Angeles based on discrete choices of neighborhood and housing. We further illustrate the use of meta analysis to document and summarize voluminous information derived from repeated sensitivity analyses.Meta analysis, random utility model, choice set, air quality, housing

Photon induced secondary electron emission

Numerical models for predicting photon-induced secondary electron emission are presented. The results are compared with experimental measurements made using a Co-60 gamma ray source

Validation of a 5-minute VPC Test to Assess and Compare Cognitively Intact Individuals and Individuals with Cognitive Impairments

The prevalence of cognitive impairments in the older adult population is growing. Finding treatment solutions to impede a cognitive decline can possibly lead to fewer cases of mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. A Visual Paired Comparison (VPC) could serve as a tool to predict, monitor, and regulate people who are susceptible to a cognitive decline. The purpose of this study was to 1) to determine the validity of the Neurotrack 5-minute VPC test with the Neurotrack 30-minute VPC test, 2) to determine the test-retest reliability of the Neurotrack 5-minute VPC test, 3) to compare Neurotrack 5-minute VPC scores between individuals with cognitive impairment (Mild Cognitive Impairment and/or Alzheimer\u27s Disease) to cognitively intact adults, 4) lastly to compare Neurotrack VPC results with other cognitive tasks (MoCA, NIH toolbox, Dual task) performed within the study. This study included older adults age 60+ split into cognitively intact individuals and cognitively impaired individuals based from the MoCA. Analysis was ran on 28 subject in which 11 were cognitively impaired (mean=.687; Std=.137) and 17 were cognitively intact (mean=.851; Std=.044). The relationship between 5-minute VPC and the 30-minute VPC revealed a positive associations for both the first (r=.504; p=.006) and second (r=.420; p=.019) time points/trials. No significant differences between the 2 time points/trials (p=.212) which indicates a reliable 5-minute VPC test. A significant difference was found between the groups (p=.000). Domain-specific cognitive functions were examined through other assessments, in which the 5-minute VPC test was correlated to each of these tests. This study suggests that VPC to be a potentially reliable tool to assess cognitive function