A same meaning or not problem:
These places include Canada , Japan ( since 2012 ) , Spain , and some parts of the United States .
These places belong to Spain ( since 2012 ) , Canada , Japan and some parts of the United States .
****
[A]: no

A same meaning or not problem:
Previously , this requirement was required only for third perpetrators and permitted for second offenders , and then for a three-year period .
Previously , this requirement was only required for third offenders and permitted for second offenders , and then for a three-year period .
****
[A]: yes

A same meaning or not problem:
Two years later , he bought a master 's degree in history from Southwest Missouri State University ( then Missouri State University ) .
Two years later , he earned a master 's degree in history from Southwest Missouri State University ( then Missouri State University ) .
****
[A]: yes

A same meaning or not problem:
She ( Sophia ) feels very lonely , and is like a reed .
She ( Sophia ) is very lonely and feels like a reed tube .
****
[A]:
no