Equal Effect Research Articles

THE EFFECT AND POST EFFECT OF ORGANO-MINERAL FERTILIZERS AND GROWTH PROMOTERS ON QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF POTATO YIELD CULTIVATED IN POST-FOREST BROWN SOILS

The article presents the results of the studies on the changes in the quantity and quality indicators of the potato crop under the effect and post-effect of the application of organo-mineral fertilizers and growth promoters in post-forest brown soils, in potato fields grown in drought conditions. The results of field experiments and laboratory studies showed that equivalent doses of organomix and mineral fertilizers in potato fields had an equal effect on increasing potato yields. In the variants receiving organomix, each ton provided an additional yield of 18-20 c/ha per year of exposure and 3-3.5 c/ha per year of subsequent exposure, while equivalent doses of mineral fertilizers had no reverse effect compared to the tester. Despite the one-time and fractional application of equivalent doses of organic mixes and mineral fertilizers, as well as in the exposure and post-exposure versions of biofluid, the nitrate content increased compared to the tester (31-114 mg/kg on average during exposure years, 3-15 mg/kg on average during research years). however, their quantities in the potato harvest are within the limits of the MAD (the marginal allowable density).

A kétoldali aszimmetria fejlődésének vizsgálata történeti embertani anyagon

In my dissertation I examined the development of the bilateral asymmetry of the upper and lower limb long bones in nonadult skeletal remains from the Bátmonostor-Pusztafalu site which has been dated to the 14-16th century AD. Examining the averages of the long bone measurements of the upper extremity, the growth of the nonadult skeletons from this site was approximately the same as the sample chosen as a standard, thus they proved to be suitable for the purpose of investigating bilateral asymmetry. In the case of the upper limb, bilateral asymmetry was not present at birth. In older age groups, however, it developed gradually. Based on the time of appearance of bilateral asymmetry, the development of its direction and the change in its magnitude with age I drew conclusions about the lifestyle of the examined children and their relationship with their environment. They probably already participated in farming and handicraft work at the age of 7-8, and the physical activities performed during this influenced the long bones of their upper limbs through the loading of the dominant arm, which was manifested in directional asymmetry shifting to the right. The directional asymmetry of the femur showed a shift to the right side with age, and then to the left side in older age groups; thus crossed symmetry pattern could be observed. In the case of the tibia, I obtained partially opposite results to the femur. Shifting to the right in asymmetry was more common, but as age progressed, the differences between the right and left sides levelled off, just like in the case of the femur. As bipedal walking exerts an equal mechanical effect on the lower limb on both sides, asymmetry is less pronounced in the period of postnatal life from birth to adolescence. The bioarchaeological study of limb bone bilateral asymmetry of nonadult skeletons gave me the opportunity to contribute to the biological reconstruction of the findings from the Bátmonostor-Pusztafalu cemetery.

The effects of equalization of regional basic public services on multidimensional vulnerability: evidence from China

ABSTRACT Based on the four waves of micro panel data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study uses a two-way fixed effect model to analyse the impact of equalization of regional basic public services on the multidimensional vulnerability of families and its mechanism. The main findings of this study are as follows, firstly, regional basic public services and its equalization can significantly alleviate the multidimensional vulnerability of families; Secondly, regional basic public services and its equalization can reduce the multidimensional vulnerability of families by improving the level of regional economic development; Thirdly, the impact of regional basic public services and its equalization on the multidimensional vulnerability of households vary significantly among different groups, urban and rural areas, and different regions.

The Association between Education and Cognitive Performance Varies at Different Levels of Cognitive Performance: A Quantile Regression Approach

Introduction: Educational differences in cognitive performance among older adults are well documented. Studies that explore this association typically estimate a single average effect of education on cognitive performance. We argue that the processes that contribute to the association between education and cognitive performance are unlikely to have equal effects at all levels of cognitive performance. In this study, we employ an analytical approach that enables us to go beyond averages to examine the association between education and five measures of global and domain-specific cognitive performance across the outcome distributions. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1,780 older adults aged 58–68 years from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam. Conditional quantile regression was used to examine variation across the outcome distribution. Cognitive outcomes included Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score, crystallized intelligence, information processing speed, episodic memory, and a composite score of global cognitive performance. Results: The results showed that the associations between education and different cognitive measures varied across the outcome distributions. Specifically, we found that education had a stronger association with crystallized intelligence, MMSE, and a composite cognitive performance measure in the lower tail of performance distributions. The associations between education and information processing speed and episodic memory were uniform across the outcome distributions. Conclusion: Larger associations between education and some domains of cognitive performance in the lower tail of the performance distributions imply that inequalities are primarily generated among individuals with lower performance rather than among average and high performers. Additionally, the varying associations across some of the outcome distributions indicate that estimating a single average effect through standard regression methods may overlook variations in cognitive performance between educational groups. Future studies should consider heterogeneity across the outcome distribution.

Comparison of 27-gauge beveled-tip and 25-gauge flat-tip microincision vitrectomy surgery in the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy: a randomized controlled trial

PurposeTo compare the effectiveness and safety of a 27-gauge (27G) beveled-tip microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) with a 25-gauge (25G) flat-tip MIVS for the treatment of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).MethodsA prospective, single-masked, randomized, controlled clinical trial included 52 eyes (52 patients) with PDR requiring proliferative membrane removal. They were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to undergo the 27G beveled-tip and or 25G flat-tip MIVS (the 27G group and the 25G group, respectively). During surgery, the productivity of cutting the membrane, the number of vitrectomy probe (VP) exchanges to microforceps, total operation time, vitrectomy time and intraoperative complications were measured. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) and postoperative complications were also assessed to month 6.ResultsForty-seven eyes (47 patients) completed the follow-up, including 25 in the 27G group and 22 in the 25G group. During surgery in the 27G group, cutting the membrane was more efficient (P = 0.001), and the number of VP exchanges to microforceps was lower (P = 0.026). The occurrences of intraoperative hemorrhages and electrocoagulation also decreased significantly (P = 0.004 and P = 0.022). There were no statistical differences in the total operation time or vitrectomy time between the two groups (P = 0.275 and P = 0.372), but the former was slightly lower in the 27G group. Additionally, the 27G group required fewer wound sutures (P = 0.044). All the follow-up results revealed no significant difference between the two groups.ConclusionsCompared with the 25G flat-tip MIVS, the 27G beveled-tip MIVS could be more efficient in removing the proliferative membrane while reducing the occurrence of intraoperative hemorrhages and electrocoagulation using appropriate surgical techniques and instrument parameters. Its vitreous removal performance was not inferior to that of the 25G MIVS and might offer potential advantages in total operation time. In terms of patient outcomes, advanced MIVS demonstrates equal effectiveness and safety to 25G flat-tip MIVS.Trial registrationThe clinical trial has been registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT0544694) on 07/07/2022. And all patients in the article were enrolled after registration.

Effective-components combination alleviates PM2.5-induced inflammation by evoking macrophage autophagy in COPD

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBufei Yishen formula (BYF) is clinically used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Effective-component compatibility (ECC) is a combination of five active components derived from BYF, which has an equal effect on COPD to BYF. Our previous study has also demonstrated that ECC can protect COPD rats against PM2.5 exposure. However, the precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Aim of the studyTo explore the mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of ECC-BYF against PM2.5-accelerated COPD. Materials and methodsMH-S macrophages were stimulated by PM2.5 suspension to establish an in vitro model. Western blotting and immunofluorescent staining were used to measure the protein levels of autophagy markers. ELISA and quantitative PCR were used to detect the levels of inflammatory cytokines. In vivo, an established PM2.5-accelerated COPD rat model was used to determine the protective effect of ECC-BYF. Lung function, pathology, autophagy, and inflammatory mediators were detected. ResultsFirstly, we observed a significantly increased number of macrophages in the lungs upon PM2.5 exposure. Then, decreased autophagy flux while elevated inflammation was detected in PM2.5-exposed rats and MH-S cells. In MH-S cells, ECC-BYF significantly suppressed the PM2.5-increased inflammatory cytokines production, which was accompanied by the enhancement of autophagy flux. An autophagy inhibitor counteracted the anti-inflammatory effect elicited by ECC-BYF. In addition, ECC-BYF stimulated Foxo3 nuclear translocation and upregulated Foxo3 expression, whereas Foxo3 knockdown abrogated the inhibitory effect of ECC-BYF on inflammation. In PM2.5-accelerated COPD rats, ECC-BYF also attenuated the autophagy disruption and increased Foxo3 in the lungs, finally resulting in a suppression of pulmonary inflammation and an enhancement of lung function. ConclusionECC-BYF can ameliorate PM2.5-aggravated inflammation in COPD, which might be associated with the enhancement of autophagy flux in alveolar macrophages through the activation of Foxo3 signals.

Historical evolution of intergenerational class mobility and educational effects in urban Argentina: 1960–2017

The Argentinean case –given an early modernization and the singularity of its reversal of development- is instructive about the role of education on intergenerational class mobility. We propose a wide historical analysis of time variations in intergenerational class mobility and the role of education over different periods in urban Argentina –specifically in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area, from 1960 to 2017. This is the first time a long-term social mobility study has been conducted in Argentina. We analyse intergenerational social mobility according to EGP class scheme, using absolute rates, log-linear models, and long-term counterfactual analysis. Results show a social fluidity process for men but not for women. The counterfactual analysis exhibits that most social fluidity among men was due to a reduction in the direct class origin-class destination effect. No evidence of effects of educational expansion or educational equalization is observed. This presence of moderate social fluidity has not been linked to a modernization process which expands vertical upward mobility. Instead, it took place in a context of deindustrialization and the decline of the skilled working class.

Maintaining Sustainable Development through Gender Equality in Village Savings and Loans Associations Partners of FVS-Amie des Enfants in Makamba, Burundi

Today, gender inequality persists everywhere and stagnates social progress. Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and half its potential. Inequalities faced by girls can begin right at birth and follow them all their lives. In some countries, girls are deprived of access to health care or proper nutrition, leading to a higher mortality rate. Thus, this study was about maintaining sustainable development through gender equality in village savings and loan associations’ partners of FVS-Amie des enfants in Makamba. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of gender equality on sustainable development to promote poverty reduction, family welfare, education of children, and access to health services. The study employed a correlational research design and opted for the quantitative methods. The study used a sample size of 130 subjects and used survey techniques to gather primary data. The results indicate a strong positive and significant relationship between gender equality and sustainable development. The study concludes that implementing gender equality contributes to effective, sustainable development. Therefore, gender equality should be emphasized to improve sustainable development.

Effect of photodynamic therapy on the healing of periapical lesions after root canal retreatment: 1-year follow up randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThe aim of this randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) after traditional activated final irrigation protocol (ultrasonically activated irrigation, UAI) on periapical lesion healing after single–visit root canal retreatment. MethodsWe included 36 patients with asymptomatic chronic apical periodontitis with periapical lesions larger than 5 mm and teeth sensitive to percussion and palpation, who had previous root canal treatment. All patients who signed informed consent underwent cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to determine and calculate the preoperative volume of the periapical lesion. Patients were randomly distributed into two groups according to the final disinfection protocol: Group 1; UAI (NaOCl, EDTA, and NaOCl), Group 2; UAI + PDT. All patients underwent single-visit root canal retreatment using rotary instrumentation and standardized irrigation (3 %NaOCl) by the same endodontist. The root canals were filled with epoxy resin-based sealer and single-cone gutta-percha, followed by control radiography. After one year, a new CBCT scan of the teeth was performed to calculate the reduction in the initial periapical lesion as a measure of periapical healing. For the statistical analysis, the chi-square test variants, Fisher's exact test and the Fisher-Freeman-Halton test were used at the level of significance set at 5 %. ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, sex, preoperative and postoperative lesion volume (p > 0.05), and reduction of periapical lesion volume (median, 86.98 % for UAI and 79.72 % for UAI+PDT) (p = 0.970). Additional use of PDT after UAI did not contribute to the healing of periapical lesions. ConclusionThe UAI and UAI+PDT protocols had equal effects on healing of periapical lesion.

Gender (in)equality, maritime economies, and numeracy development in Greece during the 19th and 20th centuries

We study the history of human capital in Greece during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. We investigate the numeracy skills of the population both at national and regional levels. Furthermore, we test the effect of gender equality, as well as geographic, demographic and socio-economic factors such as agricultural specialisation (crops, livestock), trade and industry development, urbanisation, and migration on numeracy. We find that in Greece the gender gap is highly correlated with numeracy and its effect fades out around 1910. We show that maritime orientation of the island economies was highly complementary with early numerical human capital and increasing gender equality.

Validity of the Meltzer and Richard hypothesis under captured democracy and policy regime hypotheses

The well-known Meltzer and Richard (1981) hypothesis proposes that median voters are more likely to support redistribution policies that reduce income inequality when the gap between pre-tax income and mean income increases. Despite the academic influence this hypothesis has had, empirical studies demonstrate that the relationships between democracy, redistribution, and inequality are far more complex than Meltzer and Richard assume. Based on previous theoretical research, this study proposes two hypotheses to explain why the equalization effects of democracy may not work: the captured democracy hypothesis and the policy regime hypothesis. Empirical testing with data for 164 countries between 1990 and 2018 suggests the following results. First, the degree of redistribution of democratic countries is much higher than that of nondemocratic countries. However, the variability of income redistribution in democratic countries is higher than that of non-democratic countries. Second, the estimation results do not support the Meltzer and Richard hypothesis for any of three democracy-related indices. This implies that democracy itself is not a sufficient precondition for redistribution. Third, the empirical tests of the two hypotheses on democratic countries support that the equalizing effects of democracy are weaker in societies where political influence depends on socioeconomic position and in societies where neoliberal policies are dominant.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF SIDDHA POLYHERBAL FORMULATION SEVVIYADHI CHOORANAM ON CARRAGEENAN INDUCED PAW EDEMA IN WISTAR ALBINO RATS

Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the anti-inflammatory activity of Siddha polyherbal formulation Sevviyadhi chooranam in Carrageenan induced paw edema in wistar albino rats, and compared with the standard drug Indomethacin. Methods: The Siddha polyherbal formulation Sevviyadhi chooranam indicated for sinusitis was prepared based on GMP (Good Clinical Practice) guidelines. Study procedure was approved by Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC). The experimental animals were measured for paw edema volume at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 h using Plethysmometer (Model 7150 UGO Basile, Italy). Edema was expressed as mean increase in paw volume relative to control animals. And then, findings were compared with Indomethacin (Standard drug). Results: The findings revealed that test drug Sevviyadhi chooranam at higher dosage 200 mg/kg (Group V) had equal effect on anti-inflammatory activity with percentage protection of 93.2% when compared with the standard drug Indomethacin at about 40 mg/kg (Group III) with percentage protection 93.2%. However, the test drug Sevviyadhi chooranam at a higher dosage 200 mg/kg (Group V) with a percentage protection 93.2% was highly effective when compared with lower dosage about 100 mg/kg (Group IV) with a percentage protection 27.12%. Hence, the study resulted that the Siddha polyherbal formulation Sevviyadhi chooranam has an optimistic anti-inflammatory activity with more therapeutic value. Conclusion: The study concluded that the Siddha polyherbal formulation Sevviyadhi chooranam has a promising anti-inflammatory activity, probably due to the presence of biologically active phytocompounds. However, it is important to admit that there are some scientific evidences of the potential actions of these phytocompounds in anti-inflammatory activity.

Is internet-based parent training for everyone? Predictors and moderators of outcomes in group vs. internet-based parent training for children with disruptive behavior problems

Parent training is an effective treatment for disruptive behavior problems in children. However, as there is limited access to traditional face-to-face treatment, other delivery formats have been evaluated. This study aims to evaluate possible predictors and moderators of outcome, completion and engagement in parent training when delivered in group or through the internet. A recent randomized controlled non-inferiority trial (N = 161) demonstrated equal effectiveness of the parent training program Comet when delivered in group (gComet) and through the internet (iComet). Demographic, clinical and theory-driven variables were studied to find predictors and moderators of treatment effect, completion and engagement. Linear mixed effects models were used to determine predictors and moderators of change in disruptive behavior from baseline to the 3- and 12-month follow-up. Most variables did not have significant predictive or moderating effects. However, there were some variables that predicted or moderated outcomes that may have implications for practice (e.g., comorbid emotional problems, preferred treatment format, and ADHD). This trial can contribute to guiding clinical work with children with disruptive behavior and results indicate that parent training in both treatment formats can be offered regardless of a range of demographic and clinical factors. Taking patients’ treatment preferences into account can increase treatment completion.

Sea lice management measures for farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in Scotland: Costs and effectiveness

Cultured and wild Atlantic salmon around the world are affected by sea lice. Salmon culturing countries have policies in place to minimize sea lice abundance on cultured salmon in open net pens in the marine environment. To adhere to these policies, salmon producers deploy a range of management measures against sea lice throughout the production cycle. The cost effectiveness of these sea lice management measures is not well quantified. This study provides estimates for cost effectiveness in Scotland of (1) individual sea lice management measures and (2) integrated management strategies that span an entire production cycle. Estimates were based on the cost-effectiveness ratio, in which costs consist of those associated with equipment, implementation, environment and side effects (mortality). Effectiveness was based on interviews and expert opinions. For single measures, skirts and the use of in-feed medicines had the best cost-effectiveness. Cleaner fish, fresh or brackish water baths, the physical removal measures (thermolicer and hydrolicer) and medicinal baths were among the next most cost-effective measures, followed by hydrogen peroxide baths. Tarpaulins were more cost-effective than well boats due to lower costs under the assumption of equal effectiveness. Direct comparison of cost effectiveness among measures may not always be constructive as they are deployed at different times in the production cycle and their functionality is different. A holistic approach to sea lice management, a common practice in industry as shown by the integrated management strategies, may reduce risk of developing resistance. For the single measures, carbon costs were insignificant compared to other costs. If measures would have a lasting effect on production through to harvest, such as ongoing increased mortality as a result of a management measure, carbon costs may become significant. Better quantification of effectiveness is important because the scarcity of data led to uncertainty that had a large impact on cost-effectiveness estimates. Generally, this study demonstrated a lack of reliable publicly available data and lack of standardization of data, which constrains research. Highlighted gaps in knowledge can serve as a guide to improve further understanding.

Gaokao: A Fate-changing Contest or the Myth of Meritocracy

This analytical paper examined the role of Gaokao, Chinas college entrance examination, in reproducing an unequal and oppressive status quo. Gaokao has received mounting criticism for requiring so much rote learning and discounting individual creativity. Though there is also heated debate on the fairness of this high-stake test, Gaokao is widely believed by many Chinese students and parents as the relatively fair approach for the nation to select talents. The research brings new insights into this topic by analyzing it with Pierre Bourdieus framework of types of capitals. It elucidates why Gaokao offers a false promise of a socially equalizing effect. Moreover, through the analysis made by this study, it gives awareness to society on how failure to realize the inequality in Gaokao will legitimates the process of social segregation and thus calls for exploring possible visions of better selection mechanisms. The paper begins by exploring the history of Gaokao and how Gaokao became the embodiment of a meritocratic ideal. Following this, this paper briefly discusses how Gaokao failed to promote an equitable education system as commonly believed. The last section highlights the harmful effects of the failure to realize the inequality and oppression inherent in Gaokao.

Efficacy of Transverse Friction Massage versus Dry Cupping on Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Gastrocsoleus in Patients with Planter fasciitis

Purpose: Plantar fasciitis is a musculo-skeletal ailment prevalent in people of diverse ages and levels of physical activity. This condition causes pain in the medial side of heel, which is exacerbated by weight-bearing activities as well as in rest or non-weight bearing. The objective of the study was to compare the effects on transverse friction massage and dry cupping on pain, disability and activity limitations in patients with planter fasciitis.
 Methodology: It was a quasi-experimental study with sample size of 32 and convenient sampling was used to recruit patients in study. Inclusion criteria of study were females and males of age 21 to 35 years, chronic pain in foot for more than 4 months and had positive windlass test. Study duration was 6 months. Out of 32 patients 16 were enrolled in group-A (baseline therapy and Transverse Friction Massage) and remaining 16 were enrolled in group-B (baseline therapy and Dry Cupping). Intensity of pain was assessed by NPRS before and after the treatment of 4 week and functional limitations was measure by Foot Function Index (FFI). Data was analyzed by software SPSS 24.0.
 Findings: Out of 32 participants 37.5% were men and 62.5% were women. Results demonstrated that median of NPRS in group A before treatment was 6.50 and after treatment it was 3.00. Median of NPRS in group B before treatment was 6.00 and after treatment it was 2.50. Pre-treatment mean of FFI in group A was 64.18±7.40 which reduced to 21.12±9.26 after the treatment of 4 weeks. Pre-treatment mean of FFI in group b was 63.18±7.70 and after treatment it was 23.12±8.24. A statistical significant difference was found in pre and post treatments of both groups p≤0.05). Between group analysis of A and B showed no statistical significant difference (p>0.05). Transverse friction massage and dry cupping showed equal effects in reducing disability, activity limitations and pain in the patients of planter fasciitis.
 Recommendations: Transverse Friction Massage and Dry Cupping demonstrate equivalent therapeutic benefits for plantar fasciitis patients. Clinicians are advised to consider both interventions, factoring in patient comfort and logistical constraints. It's imperative for policymakers to integrate these findings into clinical guidelines, while also promoting further research to elucidate the specific therapeutic mechanisms involved.

Public sector wage compression and wage inequality: gender and geographic heterogeneity

Abstract Studies of wage inequality concentrate on private wages. Public sector wages are typically assumed to contribute to the overall wage equality. We challenge this understanding in an analysis of the relative skill premium in the public versus private sectors. The analysis of heterogeneity across gender and geography is based on rich register data for Norway. The raw data confirm the relative wage compression in the public sector. However, this is a male phenomenon and only prevalent in large cities when unobserved worker and firm characteristics are taken into account. With identification based on shifters between private and public sectors and movers between city-size groups, wage setting for female workers in the public sector increases wage inequality in all regions, particularly in the periphery. The result is consistent with policies promoting the recruitment of high-educated female workers and the expansion of public services in the periphery counterbalancing the desired equality effect of public wages.

Efficacy of preoperative melatonin versus pregabalin on intraoperative anxiolysis and sedation during hip arthroplasty under regional anesthesia

Background and objectives Anesthesiology places a high priority on perioperative anxiety, pain, and its consequences and much research has been conducted to reduce or remove them. Postoperative sleep disruption is increased by postoperative pain. Also, sleep disruption exacerbates postoperative pain. In this clinical trial, we aim to explore the efficacy of melatonin and pregabalin on anxiolysis, sedation and postoperative pain in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia. Material and methods Patients were randomly assigned into three groups, each including 26 patients. group M patients received melatonin 10 mg, while group G patients received pregabalin 150 mg, and group C patients received 5 mg of melatonin plus 75 mg of pregabalin. This study was started on January 2022 and completed in October 2022. Results VAS score reading is significant when comparing readings of group1& 2 and when comparing readings of groups 2 to group 3 but not significant at all when comparing groups 1 to 3 (VAS at last reading P1 0.005, P2 0.005 and at highest reading P1 0.00, P3 0.00). Sedation score is not significant in the 3 groups when comparing 1st, the last, and highest reading. Conclusion When comparing pregabalin to melatonin for intraoperative sedation and postoperative sedation and analgesia, it was found that pregabalin has the upper hand for postoperative analgesia and both were equal effectiveness for sedation.

The Reduction of After-Hours and Weekend Effects in Upper Gastro-intestinal Bleeding Mortality During the COVID-19 Pandemic Compared to the Pre-Pandemic Period.

In upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), admissions after normal working hours and during weekends may be associated with increased mortality. To assess the evolution of the after-hours and weekend effects during the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of progressive improved management despite management challenges during the pandemic. We performed an observational study of patients admitted for UGIB at a tertiary academic center between March 2020 and December 2021, compared to the corresponding timeframe before the pandemic. Admissions were assessed based on regular hours versus after-hours and weekdays versus weekends. We stratified patients based on demographic data, etiology, prognostic scores, the time between symptom onset and admission, as and between admission and endoscopy. The outcomes included mortality, rebleeding rate, the requirement for surgery and transfusion, and hospitalization days. 802 cases were recorded during the pandemic, and 1006 cases before the pandemic. The overall mortality rate was 12.33%. Patients admitted after hours and during weekends had a higher mortality rate compared to those admitted during regular hours and weekdays (15.18% versus 10.22%, and 15.25% versus 11.16%), especially in cases of non-variceal bleeding. However, the difference in mortality rates was reduced by 2/3 during the pandemic, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 infection. This suggests that there was an equalization effect of care in UGIB, regardless of the admission time. The differences observed in mortality rates for after-hours and weekend admissions seem to be primarily related to a higher proportion of patients who did not undergo endoscopy, while the proportion of severe cases remained similar. Blood requirements, hospital days, and rebleeding rate were similar between the two groups. Admissions during weekends and after-hours have been associated with increased mortality, particularly in cases of non-variceal bleeding. However, the impact of this association was significantly reduced during the pandemic.

Income Redistributive Propensities of Self-Employment, ICT and Remittances: Panel Quantile Regression with Nonadditive Fixed Effects Perspective

This study provides updated modalities for ensuring equitable income distributions in developing countries. This was achieved through the lens of self-employment, information and communication technologies (ICT), and remittances. To circumvent the dark spots in prior studies, this study harnesses annual panel series for 52 African countries. The study engaged both the system generalized method of moments (sGMM) and the panel quantile regression with nonadditive fixed effects (QRPD) techniques to elicit updated insights. Meanwhile, three metrics of income inequality, the Gini coefficient, the Atkinson index, and the Palma ratio, were explored for robust insights. A key discovery from both panel computations is the self-exacerbating inclinations of income disparities in the continent. Furthermore, it was discovered that both self-employment and ICT are significant income equalization factors. However, their influence is most effective at the upper quantiles of inequality. The influence of remittance inflows is predominantly unfavorable for equitable income distribution. Both financial inclusion and government effectiveness provided varying inequality-reducing effects. Notably, their influence is more formidable at the upper quantiles. Human capital development provides some noticeable income equalization effects, particularly at the lower quantiles. Policy insights for minifying income inequality in the continent are highlighted herein.