Sexual Activity Research Articles

New Non‐Invasive Approach for a Woman With Dyssynergic Defecation Associated With Dyspareunia: A Case Report

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe pelvic floor muscles are a complicated muscular structure with three major functions: defecation, urination, and sexual function. Constipated patients rarely have sexual or urinary complaints. The objective of this case is to provide a new and successful therapy strategy for a patient with dyssynergic defection and dyspareunia.Study DesignThe case study below discusses physical therapy rehabilitation and the consequences for both current and future physical therapy programs of constipation caused by PFM dyssynergia and dyspareunia.Case DescriptionA 22‐year‐old married nulliparous woman was referred by her urogynecologist for the management of PFM tightness, with the main complaints being pain during intercourse and chronic constipation. The diagnosis had been confirmed by MR defecography, which revealed puborectalis and external anal muscle tightness. Neuromuscular reeducation employing electromyography biofeedback, improved rectal sensation, intravagival massage, the application of an intermittent pneumatic compression belt on the abdominiopelvic region, and suprapubic water bag ultrasound therapy were among the pelvic floor rehabitation strategies.ConclusionThe intermittent pneumatic compression belt and water bag ultrasound approach, combined with standard program rehabitation, was successfully used in patients with defection dyssynergia and dyspareunia. After 3 weeks, stool frequency decreased from once every 10 days to one bowel movement per week; a condition reported less bloating and stomach pain, as well as a pain rating of 5/10 during sexual activity and 0/10 immediately afterward; and FSFI increased from 15.1 to 19.1. After 12 weeks, stool frequency is three bowel movements per week, a condition has less bloating and stomach discomfort and rates pain as 1/10 during sexual activity and 0/10 immediately, and FSFI has risen from 15.1 to 25.1.

Development and Validation of a Measure of the Resolution Phase of the Sexual Response Cycle: The Sexual Resolution Scale (SRS)

ABSTRACT We developed and validated a measure of the depth of the resolution experience – the Sexual Resolution Scale (SRS). Portuguese-speaking participants responded to an online survey including the SRS whose eight items were derived from the literature on post-sex states: 1) deeply relaxed, 2) with elevated heart rate, 3) with intensified emotions, 4) more aware of body, 5) in a profound peace, 6) more imaginative, 7) more predisposed to talk about emotionally charged topics, 8) more predisposed to listen to emotionally charged topics. They also reported the intensity of satisfaction, desire, arousal, and orgasm, during the last sexual activity, and completed the Perceived Relationship Quality Components Inventory, and the Female Sexual Function Index or the International Index of Erectile Function. Principal Component Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed two dimensions: Internal Experience (items 1 to 6) and Openness to Communication (items 7 and 8). The two dimensions had good reliability. Invariance was confirmed between women and men. Nomological validity evidence was demonstrated: the two dimensions correlated with better sexual function during the last sexual activity and over the past 4 weeks. The SRS appears to be usable to measure the enjoyable aspects of the resolution phase of sexual intercourse.

IMPLANTES DENTÁRIOS INSTALADOS EM PACIENTES PORTADORES DO VIRUS DA IMUNODEFICIENCIA HUMANA (HIV)

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) compromises the immune system and, as it progresses, causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), characterized by the emergence of opportunistic infections. Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact or via blood and, in Brazil, between 1980 and 2022, more than 1 million cases of AIDS were recorded. Regarding implantology, patients with HIV face oral complications such as gingivitis and candidiasis, and although the impact of osseointegrated implants in these patients is not yet entirely clear, prior evaluation of bone health and conditions is essential. This research aims to describe the care in the osseointegration process in HIV-positive patients, investigating the possible complications and the importance of biosafety, in addition to highlighting the relevance of treatment to improve the quality of life of these patients. The methodology used was the bibliographic review, using articles published between 2012 and 2022 in Portuguese. Oral rehabilitation with dental implants in HIV-positive patients has gained importance due to the increase in life expectancy provided by antiretroviral therapy. These patients, with an improved quality of life, are looking for viable options to replace missing teeth, with dental implants being an attractive alternative. Although the literature on the topic is limited, the results indicate that the success rates of implants in patients with HIV are similar to those of healthy patients, as long as the treatment considers the immune status. However, specific care is needed, such as monitoring for possible complications resulting from the continuous use of antiretrovirals, which can cause liver and kidney problems. Additionally, strict biosafety protocols are essential to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Further research is recommended to clarify outstanding issues and improve pre- and postoperative care, providing more predictable outcomes and greater safety in treatment with osseointegrated implants.

INCIDÊNCIA DE PAPILOMAVÍRUS HUMANO EM MULHERES EM SÃO PAULO NO ANO DE 2018 A 2021

HPV is the acronym for the Human Papillom Virus, which is a virus that can cause cervical cancer, in addition to other diseases. It is transmitted by sexual contact and is very common among young and sexually active adults. There are more than 100 types of HPV, most infections without manifestations of symptoms and resolve spontaneously, while others can cause warts on the skin and mucous membranes. Some strains account for about 70% of cervical cancer cases. In addition, HPV may also increase the risk of cancer, such as cancer of the anus, penis, vulva, vagina and oropharynx. HPV affects many people in society, especially young people. Women discovering the disease late can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in studies for diagnosis and treatment prevention for better quality of life. The media is the main factor of awareness of this disease. Identifying the places of higher incidence can contribute to care programs for prevention and treatment, so that in the long term the rates of the disease can become reduced.

Exploring friends with benefits: a review of research and insights from the Polish context

Introduction and Objective :"Friends with benefits" relationships (FWBR) are becoming increasingly common. Defined as friendships involving sexual activity without romantic commitment, FWBRs blur the boundaries between friendship and romance. The aim of this article is to gather the most up-to-date information on "friends with benefits" relationships.Review Methods: A review of studies available on the PubMed platform (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) was conducted, including articles with free full-text access that used the keywords: “friends with benefits relationship”, “friends with benefits,” "FWB," and "FWBR."Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: Many individuals involved in friends with benefits relationships establish their own rules, and one surprising trend is the frequent observance of sexual exclusivity. Research on the prevalence of FWBRs has focused largely on students in the USA, but there is limited data on FWBRs in Poland, where they appear to be rising in popularity, influenced by dating sites and population migrations. Studies indicate that men, residents of larger cities, and less religious individuals are more likely to participate in FWBRs.Summary: FWBRs offer a unique dynamic where individuals can avoid the emotional commitments and negative traits of traditional romantic relationships. However, these relationships also present challenges, such as differing expectations between the partners and the societal stigma that may be associated with them.

Stigma and Sexual Dissatisfaction in Middle-Aged and Older Sexual Minorities.

High sexual quality and activity predict psychological well-being in heterosexual middle-aged and older adults; however, these associations have not been documented in sexual minorities, who have faced lifelong stigma concerning their sexuality. This paper presents data from two secondary studies that explored the benefits of being sexually active and satisfied and the role of internalized homonegativity in a sample of middle-aged and older sexual minorities. Study 1 was a cross-sectional survey collected on 91 sexually active sexual minorities (ages 40-80) in same-sex relationships. Study 2 was a cross-sectional survey collected on 235 single and partnered sexual minorities (ages 40-90), which included sexually active (N = 101) and inactive (N = 134) participants. In Study 1, sexual satisfaction was associated with higher psychological well-being and dissatisfaction was more prominently associated with lower psychological well-being. In Study 2, we found that the sexually active participants had higher levels of psychological well-being, in addition to corroborating the Study 1 findings. Additionally, we also determined that sexual dissatisfaction was a mediator between internalized homonegativity and psychological well-being. These findings accentuate the benefits of retaining high sexual quality and activity for middle-aged and older sexual minorities. Although there are apparent advantages of being sexually satisfied, the relationship to psychological well-being is stronger and more of a concern for those who are dissatisfied, which is rooted in internalized homonegativity. These results can guide practitioners working with middle-aged and older sexual minorities to help them achieve successful aging trajectories by reducing their internalized homonegativity and promoting higher sexual quality.

Associations of vasectomy with sexual dysfunctions and the sex life of middle-aged men.

Vasectomy is a safe and effective form of contraception. However, fear of altered sexual function is still associated with vasectomy in many men. To assess the prevalence of vasectomy among middle-aged men in Germany and to investigate possible associations between a previous vasectomy and sexual dysfunctions. Data on lifestyle, sexual activity, satisfaction, and dysfunction from 5425 middle-aged, heterosexual men were collected. Differences between vasectomized (VM) and non-vasectomized men (NVM) were assessed. Multiple logistic regression analyses were calculated to determine variables associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and low libido. 5425 men with a mean age of 50.6±0.8 years were included in this analysis. Vasectomy was performed in 12.5% (679/5425) on average 8.6±5.8 years ago. 84.4% were sexually active in the last 3 months (93.0% in vasectomized men vs. 83.2% in non-vasectomized men; p<0.001), and 45.4% were satisfied with their sexual life (55.2% in vasectomized men vs. 44.0% in non-vasectomized men; p<0.001). The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was significantly lower in vasectomized men (12.1%vs. 20.1%; p<0.001), and a previous vasectomy was associated with a decreased risk for erectile dysfunction in multivariable regression analysis (OR: 0.65 [0.40-0.83]). The prevalence of low libido (4.7% in vasectomized men vs. 7.1% in non-vasectomized men; p=0.02) was marginally higher among non-vasectomized men. The prevalence of premature ejaculation (7.1% in vasectomized men vs. 6.1% in non-vasectomized men, p=0.5) did not differ significantly between vasectomized and non-vasectomized men. A previous vasectomy is not associated with an increased risk for sexual dysfunction, and vasectomized middle-aged men are more sexually active and satisfied compared to their non-vasectomized counterparts. The main limitations are the retrospective design and missing pre-vasectomy data. Men can be reassured that the fear of sexual dysfunctions and diminished sex life after a vasectomy is unwarranted.

Uptake and acceptability of oral HIV self-testing in the context of assisted partner services in Western Kenya: A mixed-methods analysis.

Integrating HIV self-testing (HIVST) into assisted partner services (APS) has potential to increase identification of people with HIV in the community, but little is known about acceptability of HIVST among partners traced via APS. We assessed characteristics of APS partners testing with HIVST, and factors influencing HIVST uptake and acceptability in a cluster-randomized control trial on APS+HIVST. Using convergent parallel mixed-methods design, we evaluated socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics of APS partners who were offered HIVST or provider-delivered testing, and purposively selected a sub-set of partners for in-depth interviews (IDIs). Descriptive and log-binomial regression analyses were performed controlling for health facility clusters, while IDIs were thematically analyzed applying the theoretical framework of acceptability. Among 3312 partners who were offered HIVST or provider-administered testing through APS, 2724 (82.2%) used HIVST. There was no association between partner demographics and HIVST uptake. HIVST use was less likely than provider-delivered testing among those identified as a casual (adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 0.93; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.88-0.98) or transactional (aRR = 0.90; 95% CI 0.87-0.94) partner compared to those in a defined relationship. HIVST use was slightly lower among those offered the option of an additional kit when compared to those only offered one kit (aRR = 0.93; 95% CI 0.88-0.98). In the IDIs (N = 24), partners reported that HIVST was a viable option for individuals who do not find provider-delivered testing suitable or convenient. For the APS partners, 'intervention coherence', 'self-efficacy', and 'ethicality' presented as most significant theoretical framework of acceptability constructs. APS providers played a critical role in creating HIVST awareness and driving acceptability. Increasing HIVST awareness and providing tailored solutions will empower APS clients optimize their HIV testing decisions. Providers should consider context of the partner's sexual encounter and extend counselling support when recommending HIVST within APS.

Exploring relationships between dating app use and sexual activity among young adult college students

BackgroundUniversity campus clinics provide crucial sexual health services to students, including STI/HIV screening, testing, contraception, and counseling. These clinics are essential for engaging young adults who may lack access to primary care or have difficulty reaching off-campus services. Dating apps are widely used by young adults, yet there is a lack of studies on how they affect sexual practices. This study aimed to evaluate the use of dating apps, engagement in condomless sexual activity, and the prevalence of STIs among young adult college students in Northern Texas.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted from August to December 2022 among undergraduate and graduate students aged 18–35 at a large university in Northern Texas. A total of 122 eligible participants completed the survey, which assessed demographics, sexual behaviors, dating app use, and STI/HIV testing practices. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multivariate Poisson regression analyses with robust variance were performed to identify factors associated with dating app use and condomless sexual activity.ResultsTwo-thirds of participants reported using dating apps. Significant differences were found between app users and non-users regarding demographic factors and unprotected sexual behaviors. Dating app users were more likely to report multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, and a higher likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex. Poisson regression analysis indicated that app use was associated with residing in large urban areas, frequent use of campus STI/HIV screening services, and having multiple sexual partners (p &amp;lt; 0.05).ConclusionThe study highlights a significant association between dating app use and engagement in condomless sexual activity among college students. University health clinics play a critical role in providing sexual health services and can enhance their impact by expanding access to testing, contraception, and inclusive, sex-positive education. Future research should explore the long-term effects of dating app use on sexual health and evaluate the effectiveness of app-based interventions in promoting safer sexual practices.

Adolescents’ Knowledge and Misconceptions About Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study in Middle School Students in Portugal

Background/Objectives: Adolescence represents a period of heightened vulnerability to risky sexual behaviours. In Portugal, adolescents are initiating sexual activity at increasingly younger ages, making it relevant to characterise their knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases and prevention methods at an earlier stage of their development. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving the application of a questionnaire to 750 ninth-grade students from Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal. The questionnaire covered topics such as perceptions of sexuality, knowledge of sexuality and STIs, methods of transmission prevention, and sources of information. Results: The mean age was 14.4 years, with 19.9% reporting having already initiated sexual activity. Overall, the knowledge about sexually transmitted infections was low, with a score of 7.08 out of a maximum score of 18. Condoms and immunisation were well-recognised preventive measures, but many misconceptions persisted. Better knowledge is associated with better attitudes regarding the likelihood of having sexual intercourse. Conclusions: This study reveals adolescents’ limited knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, misconceptions about prevention, and reliance on peers and the internet over trusted sources, highlighting the need for comprehensive sexual education in middle school.

Open relationships – challenges and dilemmas

Introduction and objective: Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) refers to various relationship types in which at least one partner, with the other’s consent, forms sexual and/or emotional connections with other people. In open relationships, partners are allowed to engage sexually with others, but emotional intimacy is reserved for the primary relationship, which takes precedence. The aim of this article is to gather the most up-to-date information on open relationships.Material and methods: A review of studies available on the PubMed platform (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) was conducted, including articles with free full-text access that used the keywords: “open relationship”, “CNM” and "Consensual non-monogamy."Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: CNM includes open relationships, polyamory, polyfidelity, and swinging. Interest in open relationships has increased in recent years, with more people expressing curiosity about them than those actively participating. Men, individuals with high cognitive empathy, those less prone to jealousy, and those capable of experiencing compersion—the joy from a partner’s involvement with others—are particularly interested in open relationships. Summary: Research suggests potential benefits of CNM, including greater relationship and sexual satisfaction compared to monogamous arrangements. However, open relationships can also pose challenges such as social stigma, the potential breakdown of the primary relationship, or complications in parenting for those involved. Despite growing interest, CNM and phenomena like compersion remain under-researched, providing an open field for further investigation into their dynamics and impact on individual and relational well-being.

“Whenever I help her, I am also expecting her vagina in return”: a qualitative analysis to explore men’s and adolescent girls’ perceptions of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sexual behaviour and health of adolescent girls in rural western Kenya

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic caused school closures, which intensified the negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including increases in transactional sexual partnerships, gender-based violence,...

Study on the Impact of Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer on the Quality of Life and the Psycho-Relational Sphere of Patients: ProQoL.

Prostate cancer and its treatment, particularly androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), can profoundly impact patients' quality of life. The aim of the prospective observational study reported here was to evaluate the effects of ADT on various aspects of quality of life in men with prostate cancer at a community-based hospital in Southern Italy. Eligible men initiating hormonal therapy were recruited between December 2021 and December 2023. Data were collected at baseline (T0) and after 3months (T1) and 6months (T2) of ADT using standardized questionnaires (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer [EORTC] QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-PR25) and semi-structured interviews. Of the 52 participants, 43 completed all three assessments. The EORTC QLQ-C30 showed a statistically significant worsening in physical functioning (mean score decrease from 83.8 at T0 to 76.7 at T2; p < 0.001), increased fatigue (from 23.7 to 35.2; p < 0.001), and insomnia (from 23.7 to 31.8; p = 0.048) following ADT initiation. The QLQ-PR25 revealed a significant decline in sexual functioning (from 59 to 26.9; p < 0.001) and sexual activity (from 27.3 to 12; p = 0.001). Interviews revealed a significant rise in the number of patients reporting depressed mood. Interviews also highlighted a worsening in body image perception and sexuality, increased feelings of dependence, and challenges in the social and relational spheres. ADT significantly impacts various aspects of quality of life in men with prostate cancer, particularly physical functioning, fatigue, sexual function, body image, and emotional well-being. These results underscore the critical importance of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach that addresses both the physical and psychosocial aspects of care.

Awareness and Knowledge of Hepatitis B Vaccination Among Newly Enrolled First-Year Medical Undergraduates in South India: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Hepatitis B poses a significant public health risk, particularly for healthcare professionals who face heightened exposure in clinical settings. This study assesses the awareness and knowledge of hepatitis B vaccination among first-year medical undergraduates in their preclinical stage before transitioning to clinical phases. This cross-sectional survey was conducted among newly enrolled first-year medical undergraduate students at a medical college before the commencement of a planned vaccination drive, allowing the institution to assess baseline knowledge and logistical needs for the drive. A self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate students' awareness and understanding of hepatitis B transmission, vaccination, and the occupational risks associated with healthcare work. The data gathered from this survey provided critical insights for optimizing the logistics and educational components of the upcoming vaccination program for the incoming cohort. Among the 126 respondents, there was a slightly higher representation of male participants (53.17%, n=67), while 46.83% (n=59) were females. Awareness of hepatitis B as a highly contagious liver infection was high, with 88.9% of students agreeing or strongly agreeing. The knowledge that hepatitis B is a public health concern and can lead to severe conditions such as liver cancer was similarly prevalent (97.6% and 90.4%, respectively). Most respondents (80.2%) were aware of the heightened risk for healthcare professionals and viewed vaccination as an effective preventive measure (96.1%). Awareness of transmission routes, including contact with infected blood (96%) and unprotected sexual contact (97.6%), was also strong. However, fewer students were informed about the recommended vaccination schedule (63.4%) or the necessity of booster doses for high-risk individuals (70.6%). Additionally, 93.7% believed healthcare workers should be vaccinated, while 88.9% recognized the need for immunity status checks in healthcare settings. Only 16.66% (n=21) reported receiving the hepatitis B vaccine, with 14.28% having completed the full three-dose series, while 2.38% received only one or two doses. A significant portion (62.69%) reported not being vaccinated, and 20.63% were unsure of their vaccination status. Key reasons for incomplete vaccination included lack of awareness about the full series (58.73%), fear of side effects (6.34%), and perceived lack of necessity (7.93%). Access challenges were also noted by 2.38% of students. Only 1.58% of respondents had checked their immunity status through anti-hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) testing. Newly enrolled medical undergraduates show substantial foundational knowledge of hepatitis B and its prevention. However, targeted educational and peer-led initiatives are recommended to bridge the remaining gaps, ensuring future healthcare professionals have comprehensive knowledge for effective hepatitis B prevention. The findings also underscore the need for improved vaccination awareness and accessibility to achieve comprehensive immunization among medical undergraduates.

Beliefs and Violent Behavior in Interpersonal Relationships of Young Adults: A Systematic Review

Beliefs are information-processing structures formed along an individual’s developmental pathway. Beliefs can legitimize involvement in inappropriate or violent behaviors, particularly when they crystallize into cognitive schemas. While beliefs aid individuals in interpreting the surrounding world, overly rigid and inflexible beliefs can constrain the individual’s ability to process available information. This Systematic Review, carried out according to the PRISMA norms and guidelines, aims to understand the most prevalent beliefs regarding relationships among young adults and to examine their associations with violent or deviant behaviors. Articles included in this review were retrieved from the EBSCO, PubMed, and Web of Science databases in July 2022, resulting in a total of 594 studies, which were subsequently screened by two independent reviewers. A total of 51 studies were then selected for full reading, but 36 were excluded based on pre-defined eligibility criteria, leaving a final sample of 18 studies published between 2014 and 2022. The main objectives, country of origin, instruments used, sample composition and age, main results and conclusions were extracted from each study. Findings point toward the presence of related and legitimate beliefs about violence in intimate relationships, domestic violence, sexual violence, acceptance of the rape myth, or consent to engage in sexual activities.

Development of the Indonesian sexual quality of life scale for women (ISQOL-W)

Sexual quality of life is greatly influenced by sexual function, yet thorough measures remain limited and vary across regions. In Indonesia, diverse cultural and religious contexts notably shape sexual quality of life. Thus, it is important to have a tool that considers both internal and external aspects. The aim of this study was to develop a valid and reliable scale that specifically measures Indonesian sexual quality of life for women (ISQOL-W), considering cultural and social factors. A total of 228 participants were recruited from April 30, 2023, to September 30, 2023. The ISQOL-W was developed through two phases: item generation and psychometric evaluation. In the first phase, 68 items were drafted based on definitions and dimensions of sexual quality of life. In the second phase, exploratory factor analysis resulted in 34 items with a loading factor greater than 0.4 (ranging from 0.41 to 0.84) which were categorized into four domains/factors: sexual-related emotion, sexual fantasy, sexual arousal, and sexual relationship. The Cronbach’s α coefficient for the overall questionnaire was 0.915, with subscale reliability ranging from 0.826 to 0.903. Further analysis revealed significant differences in ISQOL-W scores across relationship status, educational level, history of last sexual activity, and type of sexual activity. In conclusion, the ISQOL-W demonstrated robust psychometric properties, supporting its use in future studies. This study represents the first effort to develop and validate a sexual quality of life scale specifically for Indonesian women.

Aspects of Growth, Diet, and Reproduction of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Oreochromis niloticus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; (Linnaeus, 1758) in a Hypertrophic Milieu, the Municipal Lake of Yaoundé, Cameroon

The Nile tilapia, &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Oreochromis niloticus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;, is a highly valued fish species in Africa for subsistence and commercial purposes. However, overfishing activities in non-supervised lakes or reservoirs threaten its availability. In the view of contributing to the database on the life history traits of this species in Cameroon and supporting its sustainable management, the present study investigated the growth patterns, food preferences, and reproductive aspects of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;O. niloticus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; in a hypertrophic milieu, the Yaoundé Municipal Lake, from May to October 2018. Fish specimens were sampled, measured, weighed, and sexed. The digestive tract of each specimen and the females’ gonads were collected. The intestines were measured, and the stomach contents were identified. The females’ reproductive aspects were determined. Overall, 101 specimens were collected and distributed among 48 (47.5%) males and 53 (52.5%) females, with a sex ratio of 1: 1.1. In this hypoxic (1.35 ± 0.4 mg/L) and highly conductive (210.5 ± 56.9 µS/cm) milieu, &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;O. niloticus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; displayed a relatively good condition (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Kn&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; &amp;gt; 1) throughout the sampling period and negative allometric growth patterns for both sexes (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;b &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;&amp;lt; 3; &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;p&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; &amp;lt; 0.001). Materials from plant origin were the preferred prey types, with an index of relative importance (IRI) of 78.20%; meanwhile, mud and materials from animal origin were secondary prey items (IRI: 13 ‒ 17%). The relative gut length (RGL) value above 3.0 and the foraging activity on detritus suggest that &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;O. niloticus&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; has an herbivorous or detritivorous dietary habit and is a bottom-feeder. Female length at first maturity (L&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;50&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt;) was 17 cm. Their gonado-somatic index (GSI) showed sexual activity throughout the whole sampling period, with the peak spawning phase happening in August. The absolute fecundity of gravid females varied between 316 and 1816 oocytes (942 ± 430 oocytes), and the relative fecundity ranged from 1–5 oocytes/gram of body weight (3 ±1 oocytes/g). The results highlight the performance of the Nile tilapia in this ecosystem and provide information for its sustainable use and improvement of fish culture.

The Dynamics of Using Euphemisms Related to Sexual Activity in Indonesian Online Social Media

This paper aims to explore the dynamics of using euphemisms related to sexual activity in Indonesian online social media reporting from 2022 to 2024. The unit of analysis consists of sentences containing expressions referring to sexual activity bersetubuh ‘intercourse’. The results show that reporting on topics related to sexual activity in Indonesian online social media is dominated by the use of dysphemism rather than euphemism. In this context, the dysphemistic style is realized through five linguistic mechanisms, resulting in 48 (56.4%) patterns or variations of expressions. The euphemistic style is realized through four linguistic mechanisms, resulting in 32 (27.2%) patterns or variations of expressions. Meanwhile, the orthophemistic style is realized through two linguistic mechanisms, resulting in 5 (5.8%) patterns or variations of expressions. This indicates that the drive for politeness in reporting taboo sexual topics is outweighed by the urge to show a highly critical attitude towards unlawful sexual acts, in addition to sensational motives. The orthophemistic style is also used to reveal the actual (unambiguous) events.

Sexual Health Among Young Adults Treated with Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Purpose: Chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy (CAR-T) is a breakthrough treatment for hematological malignancies, but sexual health, crucial for quality of life among young adults (YAs) ages 18-39, remains unexplored among YA CAR-T recipients. This study explored sexual health and patient-provider sexual health communication among YAs post-CAR-T. Methods: This cross-sectional mixed-methods study recruited YAs ≤5 years post-CAR-T. Participants completed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System measures assessing sexual health and study-specific items assessing patient-provider sexual health communication. A subset completed a semistructured interview exploring the impact of CAR-T on sexual health and patient-provider sexual health communication. Descriptive statistics compared quantitative data to evidence-based thresholds. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Results: Fourteen YAs participated; 11 completed interviews. Median age was 33 years (range: 22-39), 64.3% were male, 92.9% were heterosexual, and median time post-CAR-T was 22 months. Interest in sexual activity was low among females (mean [M] = 35.1, standard deviation [SD] = 10.0), and orgasm ability was low among males (M = 39.3, SD = 19.5). Females reported less interest in sexual activity than males. Most YAs had not (50.0%) or did not recall (35.7%) discussing sexual health with a provider pre-CAR-T. Most (78.6%) had not discussed sexual health with a provider post-CAR-T. Three higher level qualitative themes emerged as follows: (1) treatment negatively affected libido, sexual activity, and romantic relationships, (2) YAs face challenges communicating with health care providers about sexual health, and (3) there is limited sexual health education and support for YAs. Conclusion: Findings highlight a need for improved patient-provider communication about sexual health and educational resources for YA CAR-T recipients.

The impact of curative cancer treatment on sexual health – clinical results from the EORTC QLQ-SH22 validation study

BackgroundThe European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) has recently developed and validated a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) for sexual health (SH) in cancer patients. Here, we present results from a secondary analysis of the EORTC QLQ-SH22 validation study. The objective was to investigate the impact of cancer treatment on SH over the disease trajectory into survivorship in patients who underwent curative treatment.MethodsParticipants completed the EORTC QLQ-SH22 and the EORTC QLQ-C30 assessing SH and Quality of Life. We analyzed differences in SH of patients on active cancer treatment compared to patients off-treatment (cross sectional group comparison) as well as changes in SH during the course of treatment (from pre-treatment to follow-up).ResultsOur sample consisted of n = 394 (66.2% females) curatively treated cancer patients with 34% of patients being on-treatment and 66% of patients being in their follow-up after primary treatment (off-treatment group). Compared to patients off- treatment, patients on active cancer treatment experienced less sexual satisfaction (p = .021, Cohen’s d = .36) and libido (p < .001, d = .60) and had higher levels of fatigue (p < .001, d = .50). Importance of sexual activity, masculinity and femininity did not differ between groups. Treatment effects on sexual activity decreased with treatment completion (p < .001, d = .50). Patients undergoing intensified treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine treatment) reported more treatment effects (subscale EORTC QLQ-SH22) compared to patients undergoing surgery only.ConclusionOur results highlight the negative impact of oncological treatment on SH and how increasing treatment intensity further impair SH. Sexual satisfaction and libido improve after treatment completion while other aspects (e.g. masculinity/femininity) do not change during survivorship. We suggest monitoring of SH from the start of cancer treatment on and beyond into survivorship using PROMs as part of routine cancer care. Routine monitoring allows systematic identification of patient’s SH problems and may improve awareness as well as target intervention for those in need of care.