Sexual Activity Research Articles

Healthy sexuality—not sexual health: for the sexual subject

The aim of this paper is to defend the emerging conceptualization of healthy sexuality (Bianchi in Figurations of Human Subjectivity: A Contribution to Second-Order Psychology. Springer, Berlin, 2020) against the traditional authoritative concept of sexual health as defined by the WHO. Becoming a sexual subject means following a sexual trajectory with episodes of one’s own bodily experiences, genital satisfaction, intimate attachment, acceptance of sexual identity, sexual pleasure, mutual sexual satisfaction and planned parenthood. In each of these episodes, the individual may experience feelings of pressure, fear, shame, pain and/or joy and pleasure. The extent to which the subject has a healthy sexuality depends on whether these feelings/emotions facilitate or inhibit healthy sexuality. The concept of healthy sexuality runs counter not only to quantitative statistical demographic measures of sexual health, but also to the existing arsenal of sexology questionnaires. Qualitative empirical research is being conducted into the facilitators and inhibitors of a healthy sexuality (in the first author’s PhD research).

Behind Prep Decisions: Understanding User Patterns and Discontinuation Factors in Real-World.

This study aimed to characterize the epidemiological aspects of PrEP use and barriers to accessing this prophylaxis. This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2021 and April 2022, encompassing 140 PrEP users treated at the Testing and Counseling Center (CTA) in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with PrEP discontinuation were obtained using a standardized questionnaire. Most PrEP users were cisgender men (92.00%), predominantly white (51.00%), over 30years of age (56.50%), homosexual-oriented (76.50%), and had a minimum of 12years of education (77.50%). Approximately 60.00% admitted to inconsistent condom use in recent sexual encounters, primarily involving anal intercourse. Approximately 88.00% perceived themselves as at risk of contracting STIs in the upcoming year. Regarding new presentation forms, 54.00% indicated a willingness to use "on-demand PrEP," and 92.00% expressed interest in using "injectable PrEP." After 6months of follow-up, 43.60% (95.00% CI: 35.50-52.00) discontinued PrEP use, primarily due to changes in sexual behavior (38.30%) and difficulties accessing healthcare services (21.28%). This study underscores the need to involve diverse key populations and highlights the significance of PrEP as an ongoing monitoring strategy for HIV/STI prevention in addition to the importance of incorporating new formulations such as daily oral PrEP into the Brazilian National Health System (SUS).

Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction in Prediabetic Males at Tertiary Care Center in Central India.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a well-studied entity in diabetes mellitus (DM). As with DM, prediabetes also appears to be associated with changes in microvascular-related comorbidities. These include retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and ED. ED is a condition characterized by an inability to maintain penile erection for adequate sexual activity, either consistently or recurrently. Endothelial damage due to any cause corresponding to hyperglycemia signifies the relationship between prediabetes and ED. While the evaluation of ED in diabetics has been extensively studied worldwide, there is a paucity of knowledge about ED among prediabetics. The study type was observational and was conducted at a tertiary center in India. Adult males aged 18-50 years with prediabetes were included in the study over a duration of 18 months. Evaluation for ED was performed using the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5). A total of 139 participants were enrolled in the present study. The severity of ED was categorized as follows: 32.4% of participants had mild ED, 11.5% had mild-to-moderate ED, and 6.5% had moderate ED. A positive association was found between prediabetes-related parameters and ED. There is a significant prevalence of ED in prediabetic males compared to the general population, as found in our study. Overall, 50.3% of participants were found to have ED. We recommend exploring this subject with more structured and larger studies.

Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among first time visitors at STIs clinic in Hangzhou, China: Assessing the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This study assesses the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in first time visitors to the STIs clinic in Hangzhou, China, considering different genders, ages and symptoms. And also explores howthe COVID-19 pandemic has affected on STIs. From 2019 to 2023, 27,283 first time visitors were tested for nine distinct STIs, including Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), syphilis, Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), and vaginal Candida. Symptomatic male and female visitors showed overall STI-positive rates of 39.27% and 59.20%, respectively(p < .001). The top three pathogens in both genders were HPV (47.56% and 56.71%), UU (29.21% and 56.47%), and HSV-2 (22.41% and 52.94%). Among asymptomatic visitors, the total STI-positive rate was 36.63% in males and 52.03% in females. Age-stratified analysis revealed higher STI rates in visitors ≤ 20 or >50 years, regardless of gender and symptoms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, symptomatic visitors showed lower positive rates for HPV, HIV, syphilis, and HSV-2, while Candida, UU, CT, NG, and multiple infections increased. Among asymptomatic visitors, HPV had the lowest positive rate, while NG and multiple infections increased during the pandemic. STI prevalence is notably high, particularly in those aged ≤ 20 and >50 years. It emphasizes the need for enhanced health education, condom use, and vaccination. The COVID-19 pandemic impacting STIs through varied factors, such as reduced sexual activity and clinical service interruption.

Machine Learning-Based Predictive Model for Mortality in Female Breast Cancer Patients Considering Lifestyle Factors.

To construct a free and accurate breast cancer mortality prediction tool by incorporating lifestyle factors, aiming to assist healthcare professionals in making informed decisions. In this retrospective study, we utilized a ten-year follow-up dataset of female breast cancer patients from a major Chinese hospital and included 1,390 female breast cancer patients with a 7% (96) mortality rate. We employed six machine learning algorithms (ridge regression, k-nearest neighbors, neural network, random forest, support vector machine, and extreme gradient boosting) to construct a mortality prediction model for breast cancer. This model incorporated significant lifestyle factors, such as postsurgery sexual activity, use of totally implantable venous access ports, and prosthetic breast wear, which were identified as independent protective factors. Meanwhile, ten-fold cross-validation demonstrated the superiority of the random forest model (average AUC = 0.918; 1-year AUC = 0.914, 2-year AUC = 0.867, 3-year AUC = 0.883). External validation further supported the model's robustness (average AUC = 0.782; 1-year AUC = 0.809, 2-year AUC = 0.785, 3-year AUC = 0.893). Additionally, a free and user-friendly web tool was developed using the Shiny framework to facilitate easy access to the model. Our breast cancer mortality prediction model is free and accurate, providing healthcare professionals with valuable information to support their clinical decisions and potentially promoting healthier lifestyles for breast cancer patients.

Trajectories of sexual well-being and links with grief after a recent pregnancy loss: a dyadic longitudinal study.

Pregnancy loss affects 1 in 4 women and is linked with poorer overall health and relationship outcomes. Despite sexual well-being's importance to health, how sexual well-being changes across time after a pregnancy loss and what might predict such changes, like perinatal grief, have never been examined, leaving practitioners and couples without knowledge of what to expect. We aimed to examine (1) how sexual satisfaction, sexual desire, sexual distress, and perinatal grief change from 10 to 25weeks postloss for both couple members; and (2) if perinatal grief levels at 10weeks postloss predict sexual well-being trajectories. Women and gender-diverse individuals who were pregnant when a pregnancy loss occurred (within the last 4months) and men, women, and gender-diverse partners who were not pregnant (N = 132 couples) independently completed 4 monthly assessments of sexual well-being and perinatal grief. Outcomes included sexual satisfaction (Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction), sexual desire (Sexual Desire Inventory), sexual distress (Sexual Distress Scale-Short Form), perinatal grief (Perinatal Grief Scale). Dyadic growth curve modeling indicated that, from 10 to 25weeks postloss, both couple members' sexual satisfaction increased, and their sexual desire remained stable; sexual distress decreased for partners but remained stable for individuals who were pregnant; and both couple members' perinatal grief decreased. Perinatal grief levels at 10weeks postloss did not predict sexual well-being trajectories over time. Given sexual well-being's dynamic nature, clinicians should regularly discuss sexuality with both couple members after pregnancy loss. During such discussions, clinicians could reassure couples about their sexual relationship's recovery by sharing that, on average, sexual satisfaction, sexual desire, and sexual distress tend to improve or stay the same (rather than worsen) from 10 to 25weeks postloss. They can also share that perinatal grief tends to decrease during this time and is unrelated to trajectories of sexual satisfaction, sexual desire, and sexual distress. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to examine how sexual well-being changes across time after a pregnancy loss and perinatal grief's role in such changes. The results may not generalize broadly, as most couples were in mixed-gender/sex relationships, identified as White, and were relatively affluent. From 10 to 25weeks postloss, both couple members tend to experience improvements in their overall sexual well-being and declines in their perinatal grief. Early perinatal grief levels and subsequent sexual well-being trajectories are seemingly unrelated.

The Mediating Role of Sexual Satisfaction and Anger in the Relationship Between Partner-Related Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms and Sexual Self-Schema

Aim: The study was conducted to examine the relationship between partner-related obsessive-compulsive symptoms and sexual self-schemas and to determine the indirect effect of sexual satisfaction and anger on this relationship. Method: The research was conducted with 510 volunteer participants aged 18-50. The participants participated on a voluntary basis and the sample was reached randomly. Personal Information Form, Sexual Self-Schema Scale, The Trait Anger Expression Scale, New Sexual Satisfaction Scale and Partner-Related Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Scale were used to collect the data. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 27 software. Results: The findings of the study revealed that there was a significant negative relationship between obsessive-compulsive symptoms related to the partner and sexual satisfaction and sexual self-schemas, and a significant positive relationship with anger. A positive relationship was found between sexual self-schemas and sexual satisfaction. A significant negative relationship was found between anger and sexual satisfaction and sexual self-schemas. Conclusion: As a result of the study, it was found that there was a significant negative relationship between individuals' having obsessive-compulsive symptoms and their sexual self-schemas, and that anger and sexual satisfaction had a significant indirect effect on this relationship.

Initiatory rites, sexual activity, and early pregnancies of adolescent girls in the savannah region of Togo: Views of canton chiefs, priests and initiates.

Teenage pregnancy and marriage are major concerns in many schools in Togo, due to the large number of cases recorded each year by the Ministry of Primary, Secondary, Technical Education, and Handicrafts. The aim of this article is to describe the rites associated with early pregnancy and the perceptions held by the populations of Gando in the Savannah region. The study was based on documentary research and interviews with several actors, including initiating priests, canton chiefs, and young initiates. The results show that the rites: Okpenkpen, Tkonte, Ignogues have a link with early pregnancy, and the populations perceive them relatively well.

Improving Beef Cattle Production: Safety and Effectiveness of New Immunocastration Vaccine.

Reproductive control in mammals, particularly in beef production systems, is crucial for managing behaviors driven by sex steroids, which can cause biosecurity issues, reduced weight gain, and decreased meat quality. Additionally, controlling sexual activity in females prevents unwanted pregnancies when both sexes are housed together for fattening. Surgical castration in cattle, commonly performed under field conditions, is associated with significant welfare concerns due to pain and infection risks. Furthermore, castrating female cattle in the field is often impractically expensive. Hence, new reproductive control methods that prioritize animal welfare and are suitable for both sexes are essential. Immunocastration (IC), which involves vaccination against the GnRH-I hormone, has emerged as a promising alternative, demonstrating efficacy and safety in various species. Immunocastration has proven to be an effective alternative to surgical castration in controlling reproduction and promoting animal welfare in several species. This study aims to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, immunocastration effect, and productive impact of a novel IC vaccine developed in Chile for female cattle. Two consecutive trials were conducted, the first under controlled conditions and the second under field conditions. The results demonstrated that the new vaccine is safe and effective for use in beef cattle, inducing specific immunity against GnRH-I, reducing gonadal functionality, and improving productive parameters. These findings suggest that this new IC vaccine can significantly benefit the beef cattle industry by providing a welfare-friendly and efficient method of reproductive control.

Sexual Activity, Function, and Satisfaction in Reproductive-Aged Females Living with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Up to 80% of women living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience sexual dysfunction, though its link with sexual activity and sexual satisfaction is not well understood. Among older women with CKD treated with hemodialysis, the majority report sexual inactivity, though few describe sexual difficulty and most report high sexual satisfaction. Whether this applies to reproductive-aged females living with CKD is yet unknown. This study aimed to assess the sexual activity, function, and satisfaction of reproductive-aged females living with CKD. Self-identified females aged 18-51 years with CKD were recruited from nephrology clinics in Calgary, Canada. Sexual activity, function, and satisfaction were assessed with a modified version of the Female Sexual Function Index. Fifty-seven participants were recruited (35% CKD without kidney replacement therapy, 44% CKD treated with hemodialysis, 9% CKD treated with peritoneal dialysis, 12% CKD treated with kidney transplant) and nearly half (47%) reported sexual activity. Among sexually active participants, there was a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction (67%) and only 25% of participants reported sexual satisfaction. A strong relationship between sexual function and satisfaction was identified. Reproductive-aged females living with CKD are sexually active, though experience high rates of sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction. These findings emphasize the importance of recognition and management of sexual dysfunction in this important population.

Porn or Partner Arousal? When It Comes to Romantic Relationships, Not All Sexual Arousal Is Equal: A Prospective Study

Little is known about the role of subjective sexual arousal within romantic relationships. The current paper addresses this limitation using a prospective study design that investigates the direct associations between subjective sexual arousal induced by a romantic partner (partner arousal) and arousal induced by pornography (porn arousal) on changes in relational outcomes. A total of 309 participants who were in a current romantic relationship completed measures of partner and porn arousal as well as relational outcomes (i.e., sexual satisfaction and relationship quality and stability) at baseline (T1) and completed a second assessment of relational outcomes 2 months later (T2). Partner arousal was found to have no significant associations with changes in relational outcomes; however, porn arousal was associated with significant declines in sexual satisfaction and relationship quality and stability over a 2-month period. This paper is the first to examine how feeling sexually aroused by porn may impact relational outcomes for those in romantic relationships.

Male breast cancer and sexual aspects research and analysis (MASARA study): preliminary results

PurposeTo evaluate the impact of male breast cancer and its treatment on patient’s sexual function, including changes in sexual desire, performance, and satisfaction. To investigate changes in the body image experienced by male breast cancer patients and their perception in accessing healthcare in hospital facilities.MethodsWe administered three online questionnaires using Google Forms (Google LLC) to male breast cancer patients treated at our Institution from 2015 to 2023. The surveys were provided in Italian and distributed from March 1st to April 1st, 2024. A panel of one breast radiologist, one oncologist and one clinical psychologist designed a 22-item tailored survey to investigate imaging follow-up routine, sexual habits before and after treatment and perceived male breast cancer stigma. The International Index of Erectile Function and Italian version of the Body Image Scale were also administered. Replies to the three questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis.ResultsAlmost half of the patients completed the three questionnaires (33/70, 47%). The median age was 62 (IR 56–72). Only 27.8% were aware of male breast cancer prior to diagnosis. 86.1% (31/36) underwent regular breast imaging follow-up, with sexual activity declining during treatment. Endocrine treatment was reported by 63.9%. Discomfort was experienced, notably during interactions and communication about their condition. Erectile dysfunction was prevalent, with 18.2% reporting severe dysfunction. The average body image score was 9.1.ConclusionsOur findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive care that attends to the full spectrum of emotional and social well-being beyond medical requirements in male breast cancer patients.

Health Professionals' Perceptions about Prostate Cancer-A Focus Group Study.

Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for 20% of new cancer cases and 10.5% of cancer-associated mortality in Portugal. Associated risk factors include advanced age, family history, genetic alterations, and race/ethnicity. However, the role of lifestyle factors is often underestimated. To explore health professionals' perceptions of PCa risk factors, a qualitative study with three focus groups (FG), with a total of twenty-one general practitioners and urologists, was conducted via videoconference between February and April 2023. Seven themes emerged, including general perceptions of PCa; PCa risk factors; nutritional impact; the role of physical activity; alcohol consumption and smoking; sexual activity and sexually transmitted diseases roles in PCa; and screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods. Despite agreeing that healthy lifestyles could promote better PCa outcomes and quality of life, participants did not specify any lifestyle factors that could promote or prevent this disease, posing challenges to lifestyle changes, particularly among older adults. Non-invasive screening methods, such as biomarkers and alternative treatments, are crucial for future research. This study underscores the need for further investigation into the correlation of lifestyle factors with PCa and highlights the necessity of health professionals in encouraging their patients to adopt healthier lifestyles, while offering important insights into awareness, prevention, and alternative screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods, which could help reduce false positives and treatment side effects.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF ACQUIRED SYPHILIS IN THE NORTHERN REGION OF BRAZIL FROM 2011 TO 2021

Sexually transmitted infections are among society&amp;#39;s most recurring public health dilemmas. Syphilis is aninfectious disease exclusive to humans, transmitted through unprepared sexual contact. It is estimated thatannually, 11 million new cases of syphilis occur in adults aged 15 to 49 years worldwide. The objective ofthe research was to identify the epidemiological profile of syphilis acquired in the states of the NorthernRegion of Brazil between the years 2011 and 2021. This is observational research with a quantitative andretrospective approach, with data collection from the SINAN available on DATASUS. Sociodemographicvariables were analyzed: sex, age, race, education level, and diagnostic criteria. It was found that between2011 and 2021, in the states of the Northern Region of Brazil, 50,810 cases of acquired syphilis werereported. The state of Amazonas had the highest notification rate with 18,709 (36.82%) cases, followed bythe state of Pará with 13,102 (25.79%) notifications and Tocantins with 6,728 (13.24%) reported cases. Theyear 2018 presented the highest incidence rate of the period, decreasing from 2019. Thus, the profile ofsyphilis acquired in the North Region was male individuals aged between 20 and 39 years, mixed race, withunknown education, and in relation to the diagnostic criteria, laboratory diagnosis presented the highest rateof notifications. In this way, the need to promote actions with the aim of clarifying sexual health and offeringeffective measures to combat syphilis in the most affected population is evident, as well as it is essential toreevaluate the mandatory fields for filling out the notification and investigation forms of the SINAN, as theyrepresent an essential source for determining health indicators.

Impact of Telemedicine on Women's Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Context: Sexual satisfaction is crucial for women's overall well-being; however, traditional interventions often face challenges such as high costs, limited access, inadequate specialized care, and discomfort during counseling sessions. Telemedicine presents a promising solution to these issues. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the efficacy of telemedicine interventions in improving sexual function and satisfaction among women. Evidence Acquisition: We searched SCOPUS, Web of Science, and PubMed for relevant articles published up to January 2024. The search strategy and keywords were crafted using the PICO approach to align with the study's objectives and ensure a comprehensive and structured review. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Jadad scale. The primary outcome measures were sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, pain, satisfaction, and overall Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores. A random-effects model was employed for the meta-analysis, and the I-square index was used to assess heterogeneity. Results: The systematic review identified six studies from an initial pool of 4,174 that demonstrated a positive effect of telemedicine interventions on all domains of the FSFI questionnaire, except for the pain domain and overall sexual function scores in women. The effects of telemedicine on sexual desire [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.51, 1.32], sexual arousal (SMD = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.42, 1.53), vaginal lubrication (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.23, 0.59), orgasm (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.21, 0.58), sexual satisfaction (SMD = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.48, 1), and total FSFI (SMD = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.49, 1.58) were found to be significant. However, the effect on pain was not statistically significant (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI = -0.10, 0.40). Conclusions: This study supports the effectiveness of telemedicine in improving women's sexual satisfaction and function. However, due to limitations in the included studies, such as small sample sizes, lack of randomization, and lack of blinding in some cases, more comprehensive studies are recommended. Future research should address these methodological limitations to provide stronger evidence on the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions for women's sexual health.

Attraction Toward One's Partner is Associated with Sexual Desire, Satisfaction, and Distress Among Couples Coping with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder.

The sexual incentive motivation model suggests that attractive stimuli activate the sexual response system. Attraction toward one's partner has been linked to greater sexual satisfaction, but no quantitative studies have examined its links to sexual desire or distress among those with sexual dysfunction. We examined associations between daily attraction toward one's partner and sexual satisfaction, desire, and distress for individuals with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD) and their partners. Participants (N = 227 couples) completed daily online surveys measuring attraction for one's partner, sexual desire, satisfaction, and distress. Multilevel models showed that on days when women and gender diverse individuals with SIAD reported higher attraction for their partner, they and their partners reported higher sexual satisfaction and desire, and their partners reported lower sexual distress. On days when partners reported higher attraction, both they and participants with SIAD reported higher sexual desire and partners reported lower sexual distress; however, women and gender diverse individuals with SIAD reported higher sexual distress. Daily fluctuations in attraction may be important for daily fluctuations in sexual wellbeing among couples coping with SIAD. Findings may inform novel treatment targets for SIAD.

Risky sexual behaviors and associated factors among adolescent in Gedeo Zone, South Ethiopia: a community based cross-sectional study

Adolescents represent 16% of the global population and they are identified as a critical demographic group for promoting sexual health. Adolescents are susceptible to engaging in risky sexual behaviors (RSB) such as early sexual initiation, having multiple sexual partners, substance use during sexual encounters and practicing unsafe sex. Adolescents represent 16% of the global population and they are identified as a critical demographic group for promoting sexual health. Adolescents are susceptible to engaging in risky sexual behaviors (RSB) such as early sexual initiation, having multiple sexual partners, substance use during sexual encounters and practicing unsafe sex. To assess risky Sexual behaviors and associated factors among adolescent in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A community based cross-sectional study. A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Gedeo Zone among adolescents. A total of 2780 (99.3%) adolescents were participated in the study and gave the response rate of 99.3%. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to gather the data and analyzed by using SPSS version 23. During analysis initially bivariable logistic regression model was used then, those variables with a level of significant at a P-value ≤ 0.25 were considered as candidate for multivariable logistic regression model. A level of significant at a P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant in this study. Out of 428 sexually active adolescent 334 (78%) exposed to risky sexual practice. More than half 54.3% of adolescent was protestant in religion followed by Orthodox 34.2% and Muslim 11.5%. In terms of ethnicity, Gedeo 67.4% was the dominant ethnic group in the study area. Mean age at sexual initiation was 15 ± 1.8.Residence AOR 1.14 (1.36–5.25), Sex AOR 2.77 (1.31–5.86), Age AOR 2.01 (1.41–6.39), School attending AOR 1.93 (1.27–5.75), Watching Pornographies AOR 2.51 (1.36–4.62) and Parental monitoring AOR 2.10 (1.07–4.10) were independent predictor of risky sexual practice in this study. The prevalence of risky sexual behavior was found to be alarming among adolescents aged 14–19 years, mostly rural and female adolescents and those adolescent start sexual practice earlier exposed to risky sexual practice than their counter parts. Sexual urge, watching pornography and not attending school were the major factor for risky sexual behaviors of adolescent. Parental over all control can protect risky sexual behaviors among adolescent.

Poweromin X Ten, a polyherbal formulation improves male sexual function: In vivo and network pharmacology study.

Poweromin X Ten (PXT) is a polyherbal formulation, traditionally used to enhance male sexual function. However, the safety and benefits of PXT have not been scientifically evaluated. Therefore, the present study investigated the toxicity and aphrodisiac potential of PXT in male rats and explored its principal mechanisms of action. Male Wistar rats were orally administered PXT (50 or 100 mg/kg) for 28 days, and sexual activity parameters, including latency and frequency of mounting and intromissions, were studied. The reproductive toxicity and spermatogenic potential were also examined. Furthermore, dopamine and serotonin levels in brain regions associated with sexual activity were assessed. Network analysis was used to identify the key bioactive compounds and their core targets involved in their beneficial actions. Treatment with PXT improved sexual activity in male rats, as evidenced by reduced mounting and intromission latency and a significant increase in mount frequency. Moreover, PXT exhibited spermatogenic potential and did not induce reproductive toxicity. Notably, treatment with 50 mg/kg PXT elevated dopamine levels in median preoptic area and hypothalamus. Pathway analysis indicated that PXT primarily modulated the PI3K-Akt, calcium, and MAPK signalling pathways to enhance male sexual function. Network analysis identified macelignan, β-estradiol, testosterone, and paniculatine as key bioactive components of PXT, which likely act through core targets, such as androgen receptor (AR), Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to facilitate the improvement of male sexual function. Study results suggest that PXT is a safer alternative with aphrodisiac and spermatogenic potential. These effects are partly attributed to the enhanced dopamine levels in the brain. Furthermore, this study provides insights into the specific signalling pathways and bioactive compounds that underlie the improvements in male sexual function associated with PXT.

Dynamic landscape of mpox importation risks driven by heavy-tailed sexual contact networks among men who have sex with men in 2022.

During the 2022 global mpox outbreak, the cumulative number of countries reporting their first imported case quickly rose in the early phase, but the importation rate subsequently slowed down, leaving many countries reporting no cases by the 2022 year-end. We developed a mathematical model of international dissemination of mpox infections incorporating sexual networks and global mobility data. We used this model to characterize the mpox importation patterns observed in 2022 and to discuss the potential of further international spread. Our proposed model better explained the observed importation patterns than models not assuming heterogeneity in sexual contacts. Estimated importation hazards decreased in most countries, surpassing the global case count decline, suggesting a reduced per-case risk of importation. We assessed each country's potential to export mpox cases until the end of an epidemic, identifying countries capable of contributing to the future international spread. The accumulation of immunity among high-risk individuals over highly heterogeneous sexual networks may have contributed to the slowdown in the rate of mpox importations. Nevertheless, the existence of countries with the potential to contribute to the global spread of mpox highlights the importance of equitable resource access to prevent the global resurgence of mpox.

Successful combination therapy of trichloroacetic acid, podophyllin, and electrocautery on giant condylomata acuminata.

Introduction: Giant condylomata acuminata (GCA) is a rare presentation of anogenital wart (AGW), invasive locally but does not metastasize. Combination therapy for GCA is suggested based on modalities and experiences. The combination of TCA and podophyllin has showed good efficacy, followed by electrocautery to eradicate warts. Case: A 24-year-old male had a chief complaint of large warts on the base of the penis that had started to bleed for 4 weeks. The initial lesion appeared 8months prior as a small varucose papule. The patient is unmarried and has history of sexual contact with sex workers. Physical examination showed multiple verrucous papules, flesh-coloured, cauliflower-like shaped, 5 × 2 × 1cm in size. The patient tested negative for HIV infection. Histopathological examination showed acanthosis, exophytic growth, parakeratosis, and koilocytosis with no signs of malignancy. This patient received a combination of TCA 90% and podophyllin 25% to initially reduce the tumor size, followed by electrocautery to eradicate the remaining lesions. The tumor showed complete clearance. Discussion: There is no definitive evidence that one therapy is superior to completely eliminating warts. Combination therapy of TCA and podophyllin leads to complete wart clearance, followed by electrocautery to destroy smaller warts.