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Background: This study examines global trends in acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from 1990 to 2019, focusing on regional disparities in AIDS incidence, mortality, and DALYs across various levels of socio-demographic index (SDI). It also investigates variations in AIDS incidence, mortality, and DALYs across different age groups, and projects specific trends for the next 25 years. Methods: Comprehensive data on AIDS from 1990 to 2019 in 204 countries and territories was obtained from a GBD study. This included information on AIDS incidence, mortality, DALYs, and age-standardized rates (ASRs). Projections for AIDS incidence and mortality over the next 25 years were generated using the Bayesian age-period-cohort model. Results: From 1990 to 2019, the global incidence of HIV cases increased from 1,989,282 to 2,057,710, while the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) decreased from 37.59 to 25.24 with an estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) of -2.38. The ASIR exhibited an upward trend in high SDI and high-middle SDI regions, a stable trend in middle SDI regions, and a downward trend in low-middle SDI and low SDI regions. In regions with higher SDI, the ASIR was higher in males than in females, while the opposite was observed in lower SDI regions. Throughout 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized death rate (ASDR) and age-standardized DALY rate remained stable, with EAPCs of 0.24 and 0.08 respectively. Countries with the highest HIV burden affecting women and children under five years of age are primarily situated in lower SDI regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Projections indicate a significant continued decline in the age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of AIDS over the next 25 years, for both overall and by gender. Conclusions: The global ASIR decreased from 1990 to 2019. Higher incidence and death rates were observed in the lower SDI region, indicating a greater susceptibility to AIDS among women and < 15 years old. This underscores the urgent need for increased resources to combat AIDS in this region, with focused attention on protecting women and < 15 years old as priority groups. The AIDS epidemic remained severe in sub-Saharan Africa. Projections for the next 25 years indicate a substantial and ongoing decline in both age-standardized incidence and mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Suicide mortality remains a global health concern, and community characteristics affect regional variations in suicide. This study investigated spatially clustered patterns of suicide mortality rates in South Korea and evaluated the impact of community factors on suicide. Methods: Suicide mortality rates were estimated by sex, age group, and district, using the 2021 Cause of Death Statistics in South Korea from the MicroData Integrated Service. Community-determinant data for 2021 or the nearest year were collected from the Korean Statistical Information Service. The spatial autocorrelation of suicide by sex and age was examined based on Global Moran's I index. Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was used to discern the influence of community determinants on suicide. Results: Suicide mortality rates were significantly higher among men (40.64 per 100,000) and adults over the age of 65 years (43.18 per 100,000). The male suicide mortality rates exhibited strong spatial dependence, as indicated by a high global Moran's I with p < 0.001, highlighting the importance of conducting spatial analysis. In the GWR model calibration, a subset of the community's age structure, single-person household composition, access to mental healthcare centers, and unmet medical needs were selected to explain male suicide mortality. These determinants disproportionately increased the risk of male suicide, varying by region. The GWR coefficients of each variable vary widely across 249 districts: aging index (Q1:0.06–Q3:0.46), single-person households (Q1:0.22–Q3:0.35), psychiatric clinics (Q1:-0.20–Q3:-0.01), and unmet medical needs (Q1:0.09–Q3:0.14). Conclusions: Community cultural and structural factors exacerbate regional disparities in suicide among men. The influencing factors exhibit differential effects and significance depending on the community, highlighting the need for efficient resource allocation for suicide. A regionally tailored approach is crucial for the effective control of the community's mental health management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas (PAs) are an essential tool for conservation amid the global biodiversity crisis. Optimizing PAs to represent species at risk of extinction is crucial. Vertebrate representation in PAs is assessed using species distribution databases from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Evaluating and addressing discrepancies and biases in these data sources are vital for effective conservation strategies. Our objective was to gain insights into the potential constraints (e.g., differences and biases) of these global repositories to objectively depict the diversity of threatened vertebrates in the global system of PAs. We assessed differences in species richness (SR) of threatened vertebrates as reported by IUCN and GBIF in PAs globally and then compared how biased this information was with reports from independent sources for a subset of PAs. Both databases showed substantial differences in SR in PAs (t = −62.35, p ≤ 0.001), but differences varied among regions and vertebrate groups. When these results were compared with data from independent assessments, IUCN overestimated SR by 575% on average and GBIF underestimated SR by 63% on average, again with variable results among regions and groups. Our results indicate the need to improve analyses of the representativeness of threatened vertebrates in PAs such that robust and unbiased assessments of PA effectiveness can be conducted. The scientific community and decision makers should consider these regional and taxonomic disparities when using IUCN and GBIF distributional data sources in PA assessment. Overall, supplementing information in these databases could lead to more robust and reliable analyses. Additional efforts to acquire more comprehensive and unbiased data on species distributions to support conservation decisions are clearly needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medical financial hardship in the United States is a growing public health concern. This study aims to assess the south vs. non-south disparities in medical financial hardship among US adults of different generations – Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980), and the Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) across periods pre- and post- Affordable Care Act (ACA). Methods: This observational study utilizes data from multiple waves of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) split into three periods: pre–ACA (2011–2013), ii) post ACA (2015–2018), and iii) COVID-19 pandemic (2021–2022). Multivariable logistic regressions were fitted, separately for each generation in each period, to compare the extent of medical financial hardship among those from South to rest of the US, and Karlson-Holm-Breen (KHB) decomposition was applied to analyze whether there was a mediating impact of health insurance coverage. Results: Adults living in the South were more likely to experience medical financial hardship in all three periods. Residing in the South was associated with 1.7 to 2.6% points (pp) higher probability of medical financial hardship among boomers, 1.8 to 4.0 pp among generation Xers, and 1.7 to 2.8 pp among millennials. The relationship was robust after accounting for chronic comorbidities, sociodemographic and socioeconomic attributes and was partially mediated through differences in health insurance coverage. Conclusions: The problem of medical financial hardship has been deeply rooted in the South across generations, which was partly attributable to the regional differences in health insurance coverage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social and spatial mobility have been subject to substantial recent sociological and policy debate. Complementing other recent work, in this paper we explore these patterns in relation to higher education. Making use of high‐quality data from the higher education statistics agency (HESA), we ran a set of multilevel models to test whether the local authority areas where young people grow up influence social and spatial mobility into a higher professional or managerial job on graduation. We found entry to these patterns reflect pre‐existing geographies of wealth and income, with more affluent rural and suburban areas in South‐East England having higher levels of entry to these occupations. Graduates clustered from major cities tended to be spatially immobile and those from peripheral areas further away from these cities show a higher density of long‐distance moves following graduation. We also explored the intersection between social and spatial mobility for graduates with the economic geography of Britain, showing that access to high‐class occupations is not necessarily associated with long‐distance moves across most British districts. Our evidence further suggests that the 'London effect', where working‐class students have higher school attainment than their peers elsewhere, may not continue through to graduate employment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the global economy, society, and environment are undergoing profound changes and the realization of sustainable development has become the common aspiration of the international community, ecological civilization construction has become an increasingly important issue for China to formulate its long-term development strategies and promote modernization. This study analyzes the characterization of 655 established pilot zones of ecological civilization construction and 'clear waters and green mountains are as valuable as mountains of gold and silver' innovative practices from 2017 to 2022. The spatial distribution of ecological civilization areas in China follows a pattern where more regions are in the southeast than in the northwest (Hu Line). The focus of China's comprehensive ecological civilization construction has been towards the southwest in the first year and has subsequently shifted towards the northwest. The overall Gini coefficient decreased from 0.494 to 0.299, and regional ecological civilization disparities gradually narrowed. Currently, regional construction disparities between the eastern and western regions are a major obstacle to balanced development; therefore, promoting coordinated regional development is necessary. Various factors affecting the pattern of ecological civilization construction, including natural resources, economic development, social progress, policies, and culture, were identified. The availability of natural resources and economic development cause regional differences in construction levels. This research will help promote the coordinated development of Chinese ecological civilization, while the development experiences of different regions can also provide guidance for sustainable development in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time-varying kernel density estimation relies on two free parameters: the bandwidth and the discount factor. We propose to select these parameters so as to minimize a criterion consistent with the traditional requirements of the validation of a probability density forecast. These requirements are both the uniformity and the independence of the so-called probability integral transforms, which are the forecast time-varying cumulated distributions applied to the observations. We thus build a new numerical criterion incorporating both the uniformity and independence properties by the mean of an adapted Kolmogorov–Smirnov statistic. We apply this method to financial markets during the onset of the COVID-19 crisis. We determine the time-varying density of daily price returns of several stock indices and, using various divergence statistics, we are able to describe the chronology of the crisis as well as regional disparities. For instance, we observe a more limited impact of COVID-19 on financial markets in China, a strong impact in the US, and a slow recovery in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study we use a spatial dynamic general equilibrium model to analyse the macroeconomic impact of cohesion policy-like investments in nine net beneficiary member states of the European Union. We examine whether or not the objective of reducing regional disparities (equity) prevents the interventions from maximising their impact on national GDP impact (efficiency) by looking at GDP multipliers and interregional spillovers. We find that there may be an equity-efficiency trade-off depending on the characteristics of both the investments made and the targeted regional economies. Moreover, the analysis shows that the growth spillovers from more developed to less developed regions are limited. This implies that, in order to reduce regional disparities, investment must be made in the less developed regions of each country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postpartum anemia, characterized by hematocrit or hemoglobin levels below the defined cutoff point (< 11gm/dl or hematocrit < 33%), is a prevalent global issue. It serves as an indirect contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity. Mothers in the postpartum period experience diminished quality of life, impaired cognitive function, emotional instability, and an increased risk of postpartum depression due to anemia. Additionally, infants of affected mothers may face challenges such as insufficient breast milk supply and a lack of proper care. Examining the combined prevalence and factors associated with postpartum anemia is crucial for addressing maternal health risks and complications during the postnatal phase attributed to anemia. Objective: The study aimed to synthesize the existing literature on the prevalence and associated factors of postpartum anemia in public health facilities of Ethiopia, in 2024. Methods: The study was conducted by searching through the Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cochrane Library search engines. The search utilized keywords and MeSH terms such as anemia, low hemoglobin, postpartum, postnatal women, and Ethiopia. The collected data underwent analysis and comparison with the WHO criteria to determine if it met the threshold for declaring a public health concern. Heterogeneity was evaluated through the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. Prevalence and odds ratio estimations were performed using a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval. Result: Four studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia was 69% (95% CI: 60- 77%).Lack of formal education(OR = 3.5;CI:2.639,4.408),Low Pre-delivery hemoglobin (OR = 4.2;CI: 1.768–6.668), Postpartum women < 4 ANC visit (OR = 2.72; 95% CI:2.14,3.3),history of post partum hemorrhage (OR = 2.49; CI: 1.075–3.978),history of Forceps/vacuum delivery(OR = 3.96; CI:2.986–4.947), Poor iron and folic acid adherence (OR = 2.8;95% CI:2.311,3.297), C/S (OR = 4.04; 95% CI: 3.426,4.671),lower dietary diversity (OR = 4.295% CI:1.768,6.668) were significantly associated postpartum anemia. Conclusion: Postpartum women in Ethiopia continue to face a considerable public health challenge in the form of anemia. Consequently, there is a pressing need for the government to formulate comprehensive, multi-sectorial policies and strategies. These initiatives should be designed to address the substantial regional disparities influenced by interconnected factors, with the aim of reducing the prevalence of anemia among postpartum women in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ensuring proper menstrual hygiene management remains a significant challenge for young women in India. The term "exclusive use of hygienic period products during menstruation" refers to relying solely on period products like sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Poor menstrual hygiene practices not only increase the risk of reproductive tract infections but also lead to various negative health outcomes, including discomfort and potential complications. This study explores factors associated with the exclusive use of period products during menstruation aged 15–24, investigates geographic disparities, examines rural–urban gaps, and assesses inequality in India. Utilizing data from the fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), responses from 2,41,180 women aged 15 to 24 were analysed using logistic regression and multivariate decomposition analyses to explore socioeconomic predictors. Moran's I statistics also assessed spatial dependency, while Lorenz curves and Gini coefficients measured inequality. Quintile and LISA maps visualized regional disparities. The study found that 76.15% of women in India reported exclusive use of hygienic period products during menstruation. Rural areas reported a lower percentage of exclusive use of hygienic period products (72.32%) during menstruation compared to urban areas (89.37%). Key factors associated with the exclusive use of hygienic period products among 15–24-year-old women in India include age, education, place of residence, wealth, access to media, and healthcare discussions. Geographically, central districts exhibited the lowest coverage (< 65%), while the Southern region reported the highest (> 85). The GINI coefficient of 0.39 highlighted moderate inequality in distribution. Decomposition analysis revealed that household wealth contributed 49.25% to rural–urban differences, followed by education (13.41%), media access (7.97%), and region (4.97%). This study highlights significant regional disparities and low utilization of hygienic period products among young women in India, particularly in central districts. Policymakers should prioritize interventions targeting these regions, addressing socio-economic disparities. Strategies to promote education, improve media access, and enhance household wealth can facilitate menstrual hygiene adoption. Initiatives to reduce sanitary napkin costs and increase accessibility, particularly in rural areas, are crucial to mitigating geographical disparities nationwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global transition to decentralized energy systems signifies a fundamental transformation toward sustainable energy paradigms. This study specifically focuses on the Swiss energy system, analyzing how dynamic pricing influences the strategic decisions of different actors. The main contributions include 1) a detailed examination of pricing models tailored to the Swiss context, 2) an exploration of strategic financial burden shifts among end-users, TSOs, and DSOs, and 3) a comparison of decentralized versus centralized energy models, highlighting their respective efficiencies and resilience. This research differentiates from existing literature by providing an in-depth actor-based analysis within a Swiss context, offering valuable insights into decentralized energy system optimization. This study tackles the problem of how pricing influences strategic decisions across different actors in Switzerland's evolving decentralized energy landscape. Here we show that a carefully tailored pricing model, designed for the Swiss context, enables optimized strategies that balance local efficiencies with systemic equity and resilience. The analysis reveals that decentralized approaches, in contrast to centralized models, not only accommodate diverse stakeholder preferences but also enhance system robustness against market and operational disruptions. Moreover, the study illustrates the strategic financial burden shifting where end-users compensate for cost shifts, with observed additional costs up to 5200 CHF/year cap when service providers are prioritized as objective actors. Notably, the most frequently selected system configuration in the primal problem, which optimizes the total system costs, aligns with the preferences of TSO and DSO for a 47.1 GW PV deployment. However, end-users demonstrate a preference for increased PV installations, constrained by urban grid capacities. Additionally, the study highlights significant regional disparities across Switzerland, necessitating tailored pricing approaches that reflect varied urban forms. The emergence of prosumers catalyzes new business models, redistributing investments across TSOs (256-261 CHF/cap/year), DSOs (244-413 CHF/cap/year), and prosumers (556-764 CHF/cap/year), showcasing the evolving dynamics of energy system economics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (ntSAH) often results from a ruptured aneurysm and correlates with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly among the older population. Despite its impact, limited comprehensive studies evaluate the longitudinal trends in ntSAH-related mortality in older adults in the United States (US). Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective analysis using the CDC WONDER database from 1999 to 2020, analyzing Multiple Cause-of-Death Public Use death certificates to identify ntSAH as a contributing factor in the death of adults aged 65 years and older. We calculated age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) and annual percent change (APC) to examine trends across demographic variables such as sex, race/ethnicity, urbanization, and states/census region. Results: A total of 78,260 ntSAH-related deaths (AAMR 8.50 per 100,000 individuals) occurred among older adults in the US from 1999 to 2020. The overall AAMR for ntSAH decreased from 9.98 in 1999 to 8.67 in 2020 with an APC of --0.7% [95% CI (--1.0, --0.3)]. However, the authors observed a noticeable rise from 2013 to 2020 with an APC of 1.7% [95% CI (0.8, 2.6)]. Sex, racial, and regional disparities were evident with higher mortality rates for ages 85 or greater (crude mortality rate 16.6), women (AAMR 9.55), non-Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander (AAMR 12.5), and micropolitan areas (AAMR 8.99), and Western US (AAMR 8.65). Conclusion: Mortality from ntSAH increases with age, affects women disproportionately, and occurs more often in an inpatient setting. These findings necessitate targeted, multi-dimensional health policies and clinical interventions. Specialties beyond neurosurgery can utilize this data for improved risk stratification and early treatment. Policymakers should focus on equitable resource allocation and community-level interventions to mitigate these trends effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: China is the world's largest producer and consumer of vegetables, with all provinces, cities, and autonomous regions cultivating vegetables. The main production areas for winter and spring vegetables have higher accumulated temperatures, allowing for multiple planting seasons throughout the year. Therefore, this article examines the competitiveness of vegetable production in China's main winter and spring vegetable producing areas from the perspective of the dynamic evolution of comparative advantages. Methods: Drawing on statistical data from 2000 to 2018 on the development of the vegetable industry in these key provinces, our analysis incorporates methods such as the Resource Endowment Coefficient, the Comprehensive Comparative Advantage Index, the entropy method, and systematic cluster analysis to explore the evolution of competitive advantages in vegetable production across various provinces and cities. Results and discussion: The findings reveal significant regional disparities in resource endowments and overall advantages in vegetable production during the winter and spring seasons. Notably, Chongqing, Hubei Province, and Shanghai exhibit a Resource Endowment Factor (EF) averaging above 1, indicating a relative abundance of production resources and a comparative advantage. Similarly, Hainan Province, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangdong Province, Fujian Province, Shanghai, and Zhejiang Province each demonstrate an average Comprehensive Advantage Index (AAI) exceeding 1, affirming their comprehensive comparative strengths. Overall, the competitiveness of vegetable production in these regions exhibits a fluctuating yet ascending trend, with notable disparities in competitive strengths across different areas. The ranking of annual average competitiveness scores in vegetable production is as follows: Shanghai > Zhejiang > Hubei > Hunan > Guangdong > Sichuan > Chongqing > Fujian > Guangxi > Jiangxi > Hainan > Yunnan. Based on these outcomes, the study proposes tailored strategic recommendations for provinces and cities according to their unique resource endowments and comparative advantages, aiming to enhance the sector's productivity and competitive stance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We delve into whether the equalization of basic public services can mitigate regional disparities in China's economic resilience. Our analysis reveals that COVID-19 has diminished economic resilience and exacerbated regional differences. Notably, these regional disparities constitute the primary cause of spatial variations in economic resilience. Despite the initially low level of basic public services in Chinese cities, there is a discernible upward trend, indicating a gradual narrowing of regional disparities. Furthermore, we uncover a substantial positive correlation between the equalization of public services and variations in regional economic resilience, thereby offering fresh empirical evidence that the equalization of public services can help bridge the gap in regional economic resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the causes of rising economic inequality among Indian states between 2000 and 2017. To identify the components of output growth that are driving rising regional inequality in the Solow Model framework, we first create state-level data on capital stock and labour force, which are not published in India's national accounts. While we find beta divergence in per capita state domestic product (SDP) between states, there is no evidence of beta divergence in capital stock accumulation. Therefore, differences in TFP growth, rather than capital stock accumulation, may be one of the factors contributing to India's rising regional inequality. Furthermore, a productivity index for Indian states was created using the physical and social infrastructure, health, education, digital connectivity, and energy access to help explain the differences in states' TFP. When common factor models were used to account for the high cross-sectional dependence between state growth rates, the influence of capital accumulation and productivity index on state growth was significantly reduced. Hence, the Indian economy's common growth factor emerges as a major driver of the SDPs, with higher per capita SDP states benefiting more from overall growth than the lower per capita SDP states, resulting in growing regional disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Methods Results Conclusion Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disorder in children. We aimed to investigate trends and regional disparities of burden in paediatric AD at global, regional and national levels, and to explore potential associated factors.Based on data from Global Burden of Disease study 2019, we assessed trends in burden of AD aged <19 years from 1990 to 2019, including prevalent and incident cases, age‐standardised prevalence and age‐standardised incidence. For potential associated factors, correlations of above trends and indexes of socio‐economic status (sociodemographic index, SDI) and health service coverage (universal health coverage index, UHCI) were evaluated. We conducted decomposition analysis to understand the net contribution of population‐level factors and their contribution proportions on changes of prevalent and incident cases, including age structure, population change and epidemiological change.Global prevalent and incident cases of paediatric AD increased by about 5.7 and 0.7 million between 1990 and 2019, respectively. Global age‐standardised prevalence and incidence decreased by −0.17% (−0.19% to −0.16%) and −0.12% (−0.13% to −0.11%) per year from 1990 to 2019, respectively. Regionally, the highest increase of prevalent and incident cases was in low SDI region (by 96.77% and 84.85%); the highest decrease of age‐standardised prevalence and incidence was in high SDI regions (by −0.20% and −0.27% per year). The correlation analyses identified significant negative correlations between trends and SDI and UHCI. Population change was a major driver of case rise; epidemiological change and age structure showed negative impact of case rise. Regional disparities in contribution of three population‐level factors were seen, including net contribution direction (positive or negative) and contribution proportion levels.Global paediatric AD case numbers increased, primarily due to population growth. Prevalence and incidence decreased slightly. Geographic inequalities were seen. Developing region‐specific strategies targeting potential factors is essential to reduce paediatric AD burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions The Oncotype DX Genomic Prostate Score (ODX‐GPS) is a gene expression assay that predicts disease aggressiveness. The objective of this study was to identify sociodemographic and regional factors associated with ODX‐GPS uptake.Data from Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results registries on men with localized prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 3 + 3 or 3 + 4, PSA ≤20 ng/mL, and stage T1c to T2c disease from 2013 through 2017 were linked with ODX‐GPS data. Census‐tract level neighborhood socioeconomic status (nSES) quintiles were constructed using a composite socioeconomic score. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the associations of ODX‐GPS uptake with age at diagnosis, race and ethnicity, nSES, geographic region, insurance type, and marital status, accounting for National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk group, year of diagnosis, and clustering by census tract.Among 111,434 eligible men, 5.5% had ODX‐GPS test uptake. Of these, 78.3% were non‐Hispanic White, 9.6% were Black, 6.7% were Hispanic, and 3.6% were Asian American. Black men had the lowest odds of ODX‐GPS uptake (odds ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63–0.76). Those in the highest versus lowest quintile of nSES were 1.64 times more likely (95% CI, 1.38–2.94) to have ODX‐GPS uptake. The odds of ODX‐GPS uptake were statistically significantly higher among men residing in the Northeast, West, and Midwest compared to the South.Disparities in ODX‐GPS uptake by race, ethnicity, nSES, and geographical region were identified. Concerted efforts should be made to ensure that this clinical test is equitably available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land consolidation has become an organized and widely implemented project in rural areas. However, research remains somewhat scarce on the contributing mechanism of land consolidation to farmer income in developing countries. Using provincial panel data from China, this study employs a fixed effects model to analyze the influence of high-standard farmland construction on farmer income and underlying mechanisms. Results suggest that the implementation of high-standard farmland construction can significantly augment farmer income. Reduction in agricultural production cost, improvement in agricultural management benefit and increase in non-farm income have led to the boost in income. The relationship between income and high-standard farmland construction exhibits regional disparities, with the most significant impacts concentrated in economically developed areas and low relief degree areas. Our findings suggest that it is imperative for the Chinese government to persistently promote the establishment of high-standard farmland, and further enhance its positive influence on advancing agricultural cost-effectiveness and expanding non-farm income channels for farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the determinants of non-hydro renewable energy (NHRE) consumption across 31 provincial regions in China, spanning from 2015 to 2022. Utilizing fixed effects and moderating effects, the research analyzes the impacts of research and development intensity (RDI), urbanization (UR), and human capital (HC) on NHRE consumption (NHREC). Additionally, the moderating roles of industrial structure (IS) and tax (TA) are examined, along with control variables such as informationization and economic development. The findings reveal that increased RDI significantly boosts NHREC by enhancing technological advancements. UR also positively affects NHREC, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions, while HC provides a skilled workforce that drives renewable energy projects. However, the study identifies that concentrated industrial structures and high taxes can negatively moderate these positive impacts, highlighting the complex interplay of these factors. Policy recommendations include creating "Renewable Energy Innovation Hubs" in underdeveloped regions to attract startups and researchers, developing "Solar Cities" with mandated solar panels on all buildings, and introducing a "Carbon Offset Lottery" to incentivize investments in renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionDespite global declines in asthma mortality, regional variations and sex disparities persist. This study investigates asthma mortality trends in Spanish Autonomous Communities (ACs) from 1980 to 2022, analyzing data by sex.Data on asthma deaths and population were obtained from the National Institute of Statistics for the study period. Age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs) were calculated, and joinpoint regression models were applied to identify trends.Overall, 44,728 asthma deaths occurred, with a steeper decline observed in men (−3.5% per year) compared to women (−0.7% per year). The female-to-male mortality ratio climbed from 0.7 in 1980 to 5.4 in 2016. Both sexes exhibited a significant decrease in ASMRs, with a more substantial decline in males (−6.3%).While all ACs showed a significant decrease in male ASMRs, female trends varied, with significant decreases in 13 ACs and stable trends elsewhere. Joinpoint analysis revealed diverse regional patterns for both sexes, with some ACs experiencing steady declines and others exhibiting periods of slower decline or even stabilization.This study identified concerning regional and sex disparities in Spanish ACs’ asthma mortality (1980–2022). While male rates declined significantly across all regions, female rates showed variation, with even increases in some ACs. Targeted interventions addressing these disparities and their underlying causes (healthcare access, management practices, etc.) are crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst global sustainability challenges, green finance emerges as a crucial instrument for advancing sustainable development, garnering increasing attention for its pivotal role in fostering high-quality economic development (HQED), particularly within the dynamic economic landscape of China. This study delves into the nexus between green finance and HQED across 30 Chinese provinces from 2012 to 2021. Employing the entropy method, indices for green finance and HQED index system are calculated, and their interaction is analyzed through a panel data model, incorporating tests for moderating effects of FinTech and green technological innovation, as well as assessing the heterogeneity across diverse regions. The findings highlight green finance's significant role in enhancing HQED, with notable regional disparities. Specifically, the eastern region shows the strongest impact, followed by the central region, while the western and northeastern regions exhibit weaker influences. The study also identifies FinTech and green technological innovation as pivotal moderators, amplifying green finance's positive effect on HQED. These insights underscore green finance's importance in driving sustainable economic growth and highlight the necessity for region-specific strategies to optimize its impact. Policy recommendations based on these findings include prioritizing the development of green finance, formulating region-specific strategies, and leveraging the catalytic roles of FinTech and green technological innovation to enhance the efficacy of green finance in achieving HQED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial enterprises are characterized by significant energy consumption and high emissions. Therefore, the implementation of green innovation by these enterprises is beneficial for promoting sustainable economic development and safeguarding the ecological environment. In this study, a relational two-stage DEA model containing shared inputs and undesired outputs is constructed to evaluate and decompose the green innovation efficiency (GIE) of Chinese industrial enterprises across 30 provinces from 2012 to 2021. Since the objective function of this model is nonlinear, a heuristic search method is employed for its resolution. On the basis of efficiency evaluation, the Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation, and convergence analysis are further employed to investigate the regional disparities and convergence properties in the two-stage efficiency of green innovation. Our findings are as follows: (1) The average GIE of Chinese industrial enterprises demonstrates a fluctuating upward trajectory, with significant regional disparities observed between provinces. (2) Regional disparities in R&D efficiency (RDE) and achievement conversion efficiency (ACE) have diminished in all regions. Super-variable density and interregional differences serve as the primary sources of regional disparities in RDE and ACE, respectively. (3) The presence of absolute and conditional convergence in RDE and ACE is observed across all regions. To improve the GIE of Chinese industrial enterprises, it is imperative to emphasize the heterogeneous impact of economic levels, industrial structure, and the degree of openness across various regions and stages of green innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are pivotal tools for malaria prevention in endemic regions like Ghana. Understanding the protective factors and barriers influencing ITN ownership and usage is crucial for designing effective interventions. A scoping review was conducted to identify studies exploring protective factors and barriers related to ITN ownership and usage. Methods: This review followed the guidelines by Askey and O'Malley. Search was done in four major databases including PubMed, Science Direct, PubMed CENTRAL, and JSTOR. Additional searches were done in Google Scholar and Google. Peer-reviewed and grey literature were included. Results: A total of 24 papers met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Included studies found regional disparities in ITN ownership and usage. Furthermore, included studies reported ownership rates between 97.8 and 28% and usage rates between 94 and 20%. Protective factors facilitating ITN ownership were marital status, higher educational attainment, higher income levels, and being aged 25 years or older. In contrast, the factors for its use included community-level campaigns advocating for ITN use and awareness, individuals with secondary education or higher and those residing in urban areas. Missed opportunities in free distribution exercises and the unavailability of subsidized ITNs at health facilities were barriers to ownership. Conclusion: Understanding and addressing protective factors and barriers influencing ITN ownership and usage are crucial for enhancing malaria prevention strategies and achieving sustainable progress in combating malaria in endemic areas. Collaborative and evidence-based interventions are essential for addressing these challenges effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Physical health is fundamental to a country's socio-economic advancement. An in-depth exploration of the spatial distribution and dynamic evolution of national physical fitness across China is crucial for enhancing the country's overall physical health. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the geographical and temporal patterns of physical fitness, informing strategies for national physical fitness improvement. Methods: Employing data from China's national physical fitness monitoring of 31 provinces, cities, and districts for the years 2005, 2010, and 2015, this study utilizes the Gini coefficient, its decomposition, and nonparametric density estimation methods. These techniques are applied to analyze the spatial disparities and temporal trends in national physical fitness levels among different demographics, including the overall population, males, females, and urban and rural residents. Results: The study reveals that the regional disparity in China's national physical fitness initially narrowed and then expanded across the general population, females, and in both urban and rural areas, while consistently increasing among males. In terms of geographical distribution, the East, Middle, and West regions show significant heterogeneity, with the East-West gap being the most pronounced (Gini coefficients of 0.0249, 0.0230, 0.0263). The contribution rate of regional gaps was highest (54.40% -64.69%), followed by regional disparities (24.78% -27.15%), and the contribution of hypervariable density difference was the smallest (10.53% -19.75%). Despite a slight improvement in overall national physical fitness, the absolute regional disparities have further widened. Conclusions: Provinces with lower levels of national physical fitness demonstrate a 'club convergence' trend, indicating regional clustering of similar fitness levels. Additionally, a 'catch-up effect' is evident in rural areas, particularly in provinces with historically lower levels of national physical fitness. These findings suggest the need for region-specific public health strategies to address the growing disparities in national physical fitness across China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Design Methods Results Conclusion Reporting Method Implication for the Profession Impact Patient or Public Contribution To explore the disruptive influence of workplace gaslighting behaviours and mobbing on nurses' career entrenchment across multiple healthcare centres.A multi‐centre cross‐sectional.Data were collected from 483 nurses from various healthcare settings in Egypt, spanning from January 2024 to February 2024. The Gaslighting at Work Questionnaire, Luxembourg Workplace Mobbing Scale and Career Entrenchment Scale were employed for data collection.The study revealed moderate levels of gaslighting, mobbing and nurses' career entrenchment. Also, there is a negative correlation between nurses' career entrenchment and both gaslighting and mobbing, while gaslighting and mobbing exhibit a positive correlation. The study also highlighted regional disparities in the prevalence of these phenomena, with the highest incidences noted in urban healthcare settings.The findings underscore the critical impact of workplace gaslighting and mobbing on nurses' career entrenchment.The relevant reporting method has been adhered to, that is, STROBE.The future of the nursing profession requires building productive nurses who can cope with negative workplace experiences. This could be achieved by cultivating a workplace culture that has zero tolerance for these experiences. Offering counselling services or employee assistance programmes to help nurses cope with the emotional toll of these negative experiences is a promising strategy.This study is the first to examine serious workplace practices like gaslighting and mobbing in a nursing context, emphasizing their effect on nursing‐sensitive indicators like career entrenchment. It is one of the important initiatives geared towards upgrading the competitiveness and magnetism of healthcare organizations in the era of green human resources management. Results provide valuable insights for nurse leaders to control nursing turnover and shortage crises in different endeavours.In our study, nurses from diverse geographical regions and varied specialties actively participate, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In numerous developing nations, challenges such as insufficient investment in innovation and limited capabilities for conversion impede the growth of the construction sector, thus affecting the overall economic well-being of these regions. This paper focuses on construction industry innovation (CII) and its correlation with region economic development (RED), providing valuable insights to overcome these challenges and promote sustainable economic advancement. This study references existing literature to devise an evaluation indicator system dedicated for CII and RED. It then proceeds with an empirical analysis of the integration and synergy between CII and the economic development across 31 Chinese provinces from 2012 to 2021. Furthermore, this paper employs ArcGIS and Geoda software to meticulously dissect the spatial distribution characteristics underlying this coordination. The main conclusions are succinctly summarized as follows: CII in China is intricately connected to RED, exhibiting a strong connection that diminishes from south to north. Nonetheless, the coordination level between these factors remains relatively low, with notable regional disparities, particularly from southeast to northwest. The primary obstacles to effective coordination are related to innovation input, output, and economic scale. Additionally, spatial correlation analysis demonstrates pronounced regional clustering, showing stability despite slight fluctuations over the study period. This research underscores the concept of coupling coordination between CII and RED, underpinned by scientific analytical methods. The outcomes provide a definitive guide for advancing the transformation and enhancement of the construction industry while promoting RED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To analyze the status and equity of health human resources allocation within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) in Jiangsu Province from 2012 to 2021. Methods The study employed the Gini coefficient, Theil index, healtli human resource density, and the grey GM (1,1) model for comprehensive evaluation on the allocation and equity of health human resources. Results From 2012 to 2021, Jiangsu CDCs witnessed an average annual growth rate of health human resources of 3.94%. The grey GM (1,1) model projected an average annual growth rate of 0.41% from 2022 to 2026. The proportion of personnel holding masterJ s degrees or above and senior professional titles increased by 110% and 593%, respectively. The Gini coefficient ranged between 0.098 and 0.133 in terms of population distribution and between 0.197 and 0,241 in geographical distribution. The health human resources density index showed a year-on-year increase. The Theil index revealed that the contribution rate of inter-group differences in geographical distribution exceeded that of intragroup differences, while the opposite was observed for the population dimension. Conclusion Health human resources in Jiangsu CDCs have consistently grown with improvements in overall quality, structured staffing, and enhanced allocation levels. However, challenges include non-standard overall configurations, pronounced aging among grassroots CDC teams, inefficient management personnel deployment, and regional allocation imbalances. Policy efforts are needed to enhance position attractiveness, optimize talent structure, and coordinate regional health human resource planning to mitigate regional disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shendong Mining Area, being the largest coal base in the world, has significant challenges in the intensive development and utilization of coal resources, as well as the impact of a dry climate, which can have serious negative effects on the growth of flora in the region. Investigating the spatial and temporal patterns of how meteorological drought affects vegetation in the Shendong Mining Area at various time scales can offer a scientific foundation for promoting sustainable development and ecological restoration in the region. This study utilizes the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data from 1986 to 2020 in the Shendong Mining Area. It employs Slope trend analysis, a Mann–Kendall test, a Geographic Detector, and other methods to examine the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of meteorological drought at various time scales. Additionally, the study investigates the influence of these drought patterns on vegetation growth in the Shendong Mining Area. Across the mining area, there was a general decrease in the monthly average SPEI on an annual basis. However, on a seasonal, semi-annual, and annual basis, there was a gradual increase in the annual average SPEI, with a higher rate of increase in the southern region compared to the northern region. When considering the spatial variation trend in different seasons, both positive and negative trends were observed in winter and summer. The negative trend was mainly observed in the western part of the mining area, while the positive trend was observed in the eastern part. In spring, the mining area generally experienced drought, while in autumn, it generally experienced more precipitation. The mining area exhibits a prevailing distribution of vegetation, with a greater extent in the southeast and a lesser extent in the northwest. The vegetation coverage near the mine is insufficient, resulting in a low NDVI value, which makes the area prone to drought. Over the past few years, the mining area has experienced a significant increase in vegetation coverage, indicating successful ecological restoration efforts. Various forms of land use exhibit distinct responses to drought, with forests displaying the most positive correlation and barren land displaying the strongest negative correlation. Various types of landforms exhibit varying responses to drought. Loess ridge and hill landforms demonstrate the most pronounced positive association with monthly-scale SPEI values, whereas alluvial and floodplain landforms display the poorest positive correlation with yearly scale SPEI values. The general findings of this research can be summarized as follows: (1) The mining area exhibits a general pattern of increased humidity, with the pace of humidity increase having intensified in recent times. Seasonal variations exhibit consistent cyclic patterns. (2) There are distinct regional disparities in NDVI values, with a notable peak in the southeast and a decline in the northwest. The majority of the mining area exhibits a positive trend in vegetation recovery. (3) Regional meteorological drought is a significant element that influences changes in vegetation coverage in the Shendong Mining Area. Nevertheless, it displays complexity and is more obviously impacted by other factors at a small scale. (4) It should be noted that forests and barren land exert a more significant influence on SPEI values, despite their relatively lesser spatial coverage. The predominant land use type in most locations is grasslands; however, they have a relatively minor influence on SPEI. (5) A shorter time period, higher elevation, and steeper slope gradient all contribute to a larger correlation with drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population and economy are crucial factors contributing to regional disparities. Studying the patterns and relationships between these two elements is essential for promoting sustainable development in regions and cities. This study constructs multi-scale geographic concentration indices and inconsistency indices, utilizing NPP/VIIRS and LandScan data to quantitatively analyze the spatial pattern changes of population and economy in the Yangtze River Delta across various spatial scales, revealing the matching relationships between population and economic elements within cities. The results indicate that the economy in the Yangtze River Delta is spreading outward from the core areas, with the average population–nightlight inconsistency index decreasing from 1.57 to 1.33. This suggests that the imbalance between population and economy within the urban agglomeration is gradually improving, consistent with trends observed in statistical survey data. Within individual cities, there is a noticeable spatial mismatch between population and nightlight intensity, with the population primarily concentrated in urban core areas. As urban spaces expand, the areas where population concentration is significantly lower than nightlight concentration are gradually diminishing. By 2022, the land area where population and economic concentration are coordinated within the Yangtze River Delta urban areas increased from 9.13% to 16.24%. Population concentration in these coordinated regions rose from 11.33% to 16.33%, while nightlight concentration increased from 9.98% to 13.63%. The improved geographic concentration and inconsistency indices are effective indicators for multi-scale monitoring of population and economic spatial changes. The integration of NPP/VIIRS nighttime light data and LandScan data provides an effective method for uncovering different spatial patterns of population and socio-economic element aggregation in urban structures. This can offer insights for promoting sustainable regional and urban development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccination and tuberculosis (TB) incidence in children under 1 year of age are critical public health indicators in Brazil. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic disrupted vaccination coverage (VC), potentially impacting TB incidence. Understanding regional disparities in VC and TB incidence can inform targeted interventions. We conducted an observational and ecological study using BCG vaccination data (2019–21) and TB incidence (2020–22) for all births in Brazil. Data were collected from public health databases, stratified by state, and analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics to explore VC and TB incidence. Between 2019 and 2021, average BCG VC was 79.59%, with significant variation among states (P  < .001). Only four states achieved minimum recommended coverage (>90%). TB incidence varied significantly among states (P  = .003). There was a notable decline in VC from 2019 (90.72%) to 2021 (78.67%) (P  < .001). This study highlights regional disparities in BCG VC and TB incidence among Brazilian states. Lower VC post-pandemic may increase TB incidence, requiring targeted interventions in states with inadequate coverage. The findings underscore the importance of sustaining vaccination programs amidst public health crises and implementing strategies to enhance access and uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This pharmacovigilance study evaluated the profile of clozapine-related adverse events by region using the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Methods: We categorized each case into five regions (America, Europe/West Asia, Oceania, Asia, and Africa) based on the reporting country information in the FAERS database. The number of clozapine-related adverse events reported in each region was aggregated according to the preferred term (PT) and the Standardized Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) Query (SMQ). Results: A total of 101,872 clozapine-related adverse events were registered in the FAERS database. In America and Europe, leukocyte or neutrophil count abnormalities accounted for half of the top 10 PTs by relative reporting rate. However, Asia had higher relative reporting rates of pyrexia and salivary hypersecretion (13.91% and 10.85%, respectively). Regarding the SMQ, the relative reporting rates of infective pneumonia, convulsions, extrapyramidal syndrome, gastrointestinal obstruction, and hyperglycaemia/new onset diabetes mellitus were higher in Asia than in other regions (5.26%, 9.72%, 12.65%, 5.13%, and 8.26%, respectively), with significant differences even after adjusting for confounding factors using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: Spontaneous reports of adverse events associated with clozapine show regional disparities, particularly in Asia, where concentration-dependent adverse events are more frequently reported. However, the spontaneous reporting system has several limitations, requiring further research for validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities in South America face many of the urban water supply challenges experienced globally including increasingly extreme future hydroclimatic conditions and rapid population growth. These challenges are further exacerbated by historical socioeconomic inequity, informal land occupation, and poor water services management. In recent years, decision support tools that aid in structuring water supply management and infrastructure pathway policies that remain robust under deeply uncertain future scenarios have been developed. However, within the context of developing countries, failing to acknowledge the complex social and institutional dynamics and stark differences in residents' experiences of climate extremes may lead to uneven adaptation capacities across socioeconomic strata. Toward this end, our study extends the deeply uncertain pathways framework by applying multiobjective optimization, disaggregated service area-level assessments of performance and vulnerability across time, and exploratory visual analytics in the Federal District of Brazil (FDB). We highlight the performance and robustness disparities between two water supply service areas in the FDB that differ in socioeconomic standing to reveal the impacts of deeply uncertain future hydroclimatic and socioeconomic scenarios on vulnerable populations. We further show that historical inequity renders poorer residents significantly more vulnerable to deeply uncertain future conditions without urgent and significant infrastructure investments. Overall, the outcomes of our study are largely applicable to urban water utilities in regions with high levels of historical regional inequity seeking to develop water management and infrastructure planning policies that are robust, adaptive, and equitable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the determinants of average Medicare payments, focusing on the impact of secondary diagnoses, demographic factors, and regional disparities. Our model reveals that major complications and comorbidities (MCCs) significantly increase average Medicare payments compared to less severe complications (CCs), with coefficients of 7674.13 and 1542.67, respectively. Higher percentages of the elderly living in poverty correlate with increased payments, highlighting the influence of social determinants on healthcare costs. Demographic analysis shows that counties with higher populations of Black, Hispanic, Asian, or other races receive higher Medicare payments, indicating potential racial disparities in healthcare access and quality. Political affiliation also plays a role, with Democrat-voting counties incurring higher Medicare costs. Surprisingly, larger populations served correlate with decreased payments, possibly due to cost-containment programs like Medicare's Competitive Bidding. State-level analysis reveals significant regional variations, with states like Oregon and Wyoming showing higher payments, while Mississippi and Georgia have the lowest. Our findings underscore the complexity of Medicare funding and the need for targeted policy interventions to address health disparities and ensure sustainable healthcare delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explores the evolution of Chile's dairy cattle systems from 1997 to 2021. It reveals a notable decline in both the number of dairy farms and cattle stocks, with southern farms gaining prominence. There is a clear trend towards intensification characterized by increased stocking rates and larger herd sizes. Furthermore, there has been a shift in grassland utilization, from natural pastures to improved and sown pastures. It underscores regional disparities and offers insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Chile's dairy sector. This study examines the structural and geographical changes in Chile's dairy cattle systems from 1997 to 2021, using data from agricultural censuses. It focuses on variables like animal stocks, herd sizes, pasture utilization, and stocking rates, analyzed through descriptive statistics, multivariable analysis, and geographical mapping. The findings show a significant decrease in dairy farms (−69%) and dairy cattle stocks (−25.4%), with regional disparities: southern farms increased in importance while central farms declined. There is a trend towards intensification, with higher stocking rates and larger herd sizes. Grassland utilization shifted, with a decrease in natural pastures and an increase in improved and sown pastures. The study identifies four typological groups based on stocking rates, dimensions, and pasture use, reflecting distinct evolutionary paths influenced by climate change, land use, economic dynamics, and technology. Geographical analyses highlight regional variations. This research provides insights into the dynamics of Chile's dairy farming sector and its sustainability challenges and opportunities amidst changing environmental and socioeconomic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With intensive socio-economic growth, antibiotics have been heavily discharged into soils, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health. However, limited data are available in broad-scale urban agglomerations which limit the understanding of the driving mechanisms for antibiotic pollution and hinder action plans for pollution control. Here, we examined the underlying mechanisms driving antibiotic pollution and their regional disparities (Central Yunnan vs. Yangtze River Delta), and we predicted antibiotic concentrations in the soils of these two urban agglomerations using machine learning algorithms. Specifically, anthropogenic pressures such as population aggregation and livestock production accounted for the highest contribution to model accuracy in Central Yunnan, suggesting human interference mediated by geographical isolation likely plays a pivotal role in the clustering of antibiotic pollution in soils. However, soil and climate variables were the most important predictors in the more developed Yangtze River Delta, indicating that human-mediated soil carrying capacity was likely the main mechanism controlling antibiotic pollution in this region. Our results showed that machine learning models performed better (area under the receiver operating characteristics curve: 0.91–0.98) in predicting antibiotic hotspots than classic linear models. Our findings highlight the regional disparities in underlying mechanisms for antibiotic pollution in the soils of urban agglomerations, and demonstrate that machine learning algorithms based on spatially available predictors can be extended to other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) have ushered in new possibilities for medical diagnostics in low-resource settings. This review explores the current landscape of AI applications in POCUS across these environments, analyzing studies sourced from three databases—SCOPUS, PUBMED, and Google Scholars. Initially, 1196 records were identified, of which 1167 articles were excluded after a two-stage screening, leaving 29 unique studies for review. The majority of studies focused on deep learning algorithms to facilitate POCUS operations and interpretation in resource-constrained settings. Various types of low-resource settings were targeted, with a significant emphasis on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), rural/remote areas, and emergency contexts. Notable limitations identified include challenges in generalizability, dataset availability, regional disparities in research, patient compliance, and ethical considerations. Additionally, the lack of standardization in POCUS devices, protocols, and algorithms emerged as a significant barrier to AI implementation. The diversity of POCUS AI applications in different domains (e.g., lung, hip, heart, etc.) illustrates the challenges of having to tailor to the specific needs of each application. By separating out the analysis by application area, researchers will better understand the distinct impacts and limitations of AI, aligning research and development efforts with the unique characteristics of each clinical condition. Despite these challenges, POCUS AI systems show promise in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery by aiding clinicians in low-resource settings. Future research endeavors should prioritize addressing the gaps identified in this review to enhance the feasibility and effectiveness of POCUS AI applications to improve healthcare outcomes in resource-constrained environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The question of regional per-capita income convergence has been widely investigated theoretically and empirically. This study reviews the relevant literature and considers the possible significance of fiscal decentralisation in the convergence process. Alternative indicators of fiscal decentralization are examined within a SDM model which also takes into account possible spatial interdependencies between neighbouring regions. The modelling suggests that fiscal decentralization does appear to play a significant role in the convergence process in Vietnam. Income inequality remains a challenging issue for policymakers to resolve, and if regional disparities can be reduced in part through fiscal decentralization, this is a significant finding for policy formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we examine whether regional gender inequality affects a household's decision to participate in stock market in China. Based on a nationwide micro data, our empirical results show that households in counties with greater gender inequality are less likely to hold risky assets. The results are robust to a number of variations in our empirical models. The negative effect of gender inequality on household stock market participation is stronger for households located in northern China. Moreover, we provide evidence suggestive of the role of the declined social interaction operating through gender inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms through which air pollution influences consumer adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in China. Utilizing the Air Quality Index (AQI) and EV sales data from 50 Chinese cities from 2010 to 2019, we apply a multiple regression model to investigate the direct and indirect impacts of air pollution on EV adoption. By analyzing data from the AQI and EV sales across 50 Chinese cities between 2010 and 2019, we apply a multiple regression model to dissect the direct and indirect effects of air pollution on the adoption of EVs. We find that the health risks associated with air pollution, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, significantly sway consumer behavior towards EVs. Concerns over health and the financial burden of air pollution-related illnesses drive consumers, especially in wealthier regions, to choose EVs for healthier transportation. Additionally, we note an indirect mechanism: increased public and government awareness of environmental issues. This heightened awareness, coupled with policies promoting EV adoption, indirectly bolsters consumer interest in EVs, acknowledging their role in enhancing air quality. These findings offer vital insights for formulating sustainable transportation policies and urban planning strategies, especially in contexts of severe air pollution. • Air pollution drives EV adoption, particularly for O 3 , PM 10 , and PM 2.5. • This impact is amplified in wealthier regions. • Public awareness and government concern play crucial roles in this influence. • BEV sales are primarily promoted by air pollution. • Regional disparities show significant impact in North China and the Southeast Coastal region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assess the macroeconomic impact of the European Union Cohesion Policy investments deployed during the 2014–20 programming period, with a particular focus on territorial cohesion and regional disparities. We use a spatial dynamic general equilibrium (RHOMOLO) to quantify the direct and indirect effects of the policy investments in the NUTS-2 regions of the European Union within a 20-year time frame. The results suggest that the impact of the policy is sizeable, especially in the less developed regions of the European Union. Accordingly, socio-economic disparities at the regional level are shown to decrease thanks to the policy intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study addresses the persistent challenge of development disparities in Iran’s border regions. Despite the nation's commitment to reducing the development gap between its border and central areas, existing planning documents lack a specific and effective model to achieve this goal. To tackle this issue, we employ the Fuzzy TOPSIS and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process methods within the ArcGIS framework and the Geographic Weighted Regression (GWR) Model to assess and rank 54 development indicators across Iran’s 16 border provinces. These indicators cover demographics, economics, social well-being, cultural factors, communication, and transportation infrastructure, as well as health and environmental aspects. Our systematic evaluation of these indicators provides a comprehensive vision for the future development of these border regions, highlighting the disparities among them. The findings underscore the importance of a more focused and equitable approach to regional development. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and contributes to the growing body of knowledge on regional development, emphasizing the need for balanced and sustainable progress in Iran’s border regions. The lack of comprehensive planning and policies has led investments and expenditures to focus in the same direction, worsening regional disparities in border areas. As a result, development barriers continue due to the implementation of planning and policies within the same decision-making system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the evolution of land use change and its drivers is vital in keeping the fragile balance between human activities and nature. The present study employs remote sensing data from between 1990 and 2020 during the Grain-for-Green Project (GGP) in Luochuan county, Shaanxi Province, which offers 30 years of continuous data on precipitation, temperature, population, and GDP. Here, the combined method of supervised classification with manual visual interpretation was adopted for building a high-precision spatial distribution information database, in order to explore the links existing between the change features of land use, distribution, and spatial pattern, and the interference of local socio-economic development and natural factors before and after the GGP. According to the results, during the past three decades, Luochuan county has undergone large changes in land use types, displaying distinct features and regional disparities. Geographically, the north of Luochuan county is predominantly forest and grassland, while farmland is mostly in the south of Luochuan county. In 1990, farmland dominated this county; however, after 2000, forest and grassland areas expanded. Notably, the implementation of the GGP significantly influenced changes in grassland and forest areas. With the development of modernization, Luochuan county's land use structure has gradually equilibrated, with increased uniformity in the distribution of various land use types. Obviously, the shift in land use from 1990 to 2020 primarily correlates with mean annual temperature, annual precipitation, total population, and GDP. Furthermore, regression analysis revealed that during the initial decade of the GGP, natural factors primarily drove land use changes. However, after the GGP, the conversion rate from farmland to forest and shrubland/grassland escalated, and population growth was the continual external force driving the expansion of forest and grassland. Despite substantial economic benefits from land development and utilization in Luochuan county during the past 30 years, certain human economic activities have posed significant pressure on regional agricultural development and sustainable land resource use. Overall, this study helps our government to enhance national land management and planning through a targeted method, also providing a reference for analyzing land use change processes within same areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the regional disparities, dynamic evolution, and convergence–divergence characteristics of global agricultural energy efficiency is crucial for enhancing agricultural energy efficiency, ensuring food security, and responding to global green development trends. This paper utilizes 2002–2021 panel data from 144 countries globally, employing the epsilon-based measure–global Malmquist–Luenberger (EBM-GML) model to estimate agricultural energy efficiency, considering unexpected output. The Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation, spatial Markov matrix, and spatial convergence model are employed to explain the spatial patterns and evolving trends of global and regional agricultural energy efficiency at three levels: regional disparities, dynamic evolution, and convergence. The results indicate significant spatial heterogeneity in global agricultural energy efficiency, with Europe exhibiting the highest efficiency, followed by Asia and the Americas, while Oceania and Africa demonstrate the lowest efficiency. Agricultural energy efficiency globally and in each region continues to improve, with increasing regional disparities, and difficulties in grade transitions in agricultural energy efficiency across regions. Each region exhibits β-convergence characteristics, but the convergence rates vary, and various factors influence growth rates of agricultural energy efficiency differently across regions. Therefore, countries should tailor their strategies based on local conditions, considering their own resource endowments and developmental stages, and strengthen international exchanges and cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While previous studies have focused on the technical aspects of groundwater extraction and optimal cropping patterns, there is a notable lack of research on the socio-economic factors affecting groundwater access and agricultural productivity, especially at a micro-level in Punjab, India. This study, therefore, investigates the water use efficiency (WUE) and economic water productivity (EWP) of paddy and wheat crops across diverse farm sizes and districts in Punjab, offering critical insights into agricultural water management. The study is based on primary data from Punjab, India, with Sangrur, Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Bathinda districts selected for groundwater profile analysis via multistage random sampling of 246 farmers. Notably, Punjab exhibits high EWP for wheat, surpassing the national average. However, disparities exist across districts, emphasizing the importance of localized interventions. Larger farms consistently demonstrate higher WUE and EWP, underlining the significance of scale in optimizing water inputs. Factors such as farm size, crop variety, and regional variations significantly influence WUE and EWP. Tailored approaches for marginal farmers and districts with lower efficiency are crucial for promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to enhance water use efficiency and productivity in Punjab's agriculture sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-quality economic development (HQED) in China is an important embodiment for adapting new normal of economy and implementing new concept of sustainable development. Accurately portraying the evolution trajectory of China's HQED and tracing sources of its spatial–temporal disparities are of great significance for promoting balanced and healthy economic development. Since the evolution of HQED is dynamic and motivated by the need for continuously monitoring the time-varying process of HQED, we develop a functional high-quality economic development index (HQEDI(t)) in the context of functional data analysis. We use the functional ANOVA to examine the significance of disparities between regions, in terms of static absolute level and dynamic development potentials, based on the continuous measurement of provincial HQED. The extended functional Dagum Gini coefficient is also used to decompose the overall and structural inequality of China's HQED. The results show the following. (1) The overall level of China's HQED has been steadily increasing, and innovation efficiency is the leading factor for improvement of China's HQED. (2) Uneven development between regions exists only at the absolute level and grow velocity of HQED, but it is not significant in acceleration. (3) The overall regional disparities of China's HQED show a downward trend, and inter-regional disparities dominate the inequality of HQED. We make a contribution to the idea of a dynamic framework for evaluating HQED and provide guidance for policy-making authorities to formulate target development policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The 2023 approval of lecanemab for early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) highlighted the need for routine 1.5T or 3.0T MRI scans to monitor amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs). Regional disparities in MRI scan frequency, MRI scanner availability, and scanner magnetic field strengths could affect readiness for anti-amyloid therapy and lead to inconsistencies in ARIA detection nationwide. (2) Methods: We assessed regional variance in MRI scan frequency and field strength across Japan using the National Database (NDB) Open Data website, which summarizes Japanese public health insurance claims from the fiscal years (FYs) 2015 to 2021. We employed a mixed-effects model with prefecture-level random intercepts and slopes over time, subsequently categorizing prefectures into clusters based on MRI usage. (3) Results: 1.5T MRI was the most common magnetic field strength, remaining stable from FY2015 to FY2021. 3.0T MRI usage slightly increased, although the COVID-19 pandemic in FY2020 led to a maximum reduction of 5%. Prefecture-level variance was higher for 3.0T MRIs, with more frequent usage in western Japan. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights prefecture-level variance in MRI usage across Japan. The insights gained could be instrumental in improving healthcare preparedness for anti-amyloid treatment and patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the impact of public policy guidelines on social entrepreneurship in Croatia, focusing on regional disparities and the effectiveness of various policy areas. Using a mixed-method approach, this research highlights how these variations influence policy outcomes, particularly in terms of the diverse levels of support across regions. The findings reveal the necessity of adopting region-specific and policy-area-specific strategies to effectively nurture a robust social entrepreneurship ecosystem. Additionally, enhancing public awareness and education is found to be critical for fostering a supportive environment for social entrepreneurship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the potential of OpenStreetMap (OSM) data in predicting local well-being and resilience in Italy. The linear Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) is used to handle multicollinearity problems and select the most influential OSM features. The data-driven approach provides evidence that OSM information is highly correlated with several socioeconomic metrics at a provincial scale (NUTS-3 level). Moreover, it claims that some specific points of interest—e.g., bookmakers—can be used for a rapid territorial appraisal of vulnerable territories, i.e., areas that are affected by economic backwardness, poor institutions, low human capital and that, for these adverse conditions, deserve special attention by policymakers concerned with a reduction of regional disparities. While OSM can become a powerful source for policy planning, monitoring and evaluation, future works in the field should explore the scalability of the approach, its use for forecasting purposes, and the adoption of various models and tools such as machine learning techniques to grasp even non-linear relationships between variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]