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In Venezuela, members of a social and sexual partner networking site for men who have sex with men (MSM) completed an online survey regarding sexual behaviours and HIV medical care. Among the 2851 respondents, self-reported HIV prevalence was 6.6%. Of participants living with HIV, 73.2% reported taking antiretroviral medication and 56.6% reported complete adherence within the past month. Participants living with HIV were more likely to be older (aOR = 1.04 per one-year increase in age, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.06) and diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the previous year (aOR 3.26, 95% CI: 2.11, 5.04). These data provide further understanding of the HIV epidemic among MSM in Venezuela, and potential targets for HIV prevention interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown that compared to younger individuals, older adults are at a similar risk for acquiring HIV. Additionally, screenings for HIV/STD tend to be lower among older adults, with this group seeing themselves at less risk for HIV/STD compared to their younger counterparts. Limited information exists concerning older bisexual men outside examining aggregated populations of sexual minority men (e.g., MSM). The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the sexual health, behaviors, and evaluation of last sexual event among older (≥ 50 years old) compared to younger (< 50 years old) bisexual men. Data were collected in collaboration with a social and sexual networking website catering to men who have sex with men. Findings suggest that older bisexual men continue to be sexually active and that strategies need to be developed to better reach this population regarding HIV/STD prevention and education. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

There is a need to understand better the complex interrelationship between the adoption of masculinity during adolescence and the development of early romantic and sexual relationships. The purpose of this study was to describe features of adolescent masculinity and how it is expressed in the contexts of early to middle adolescent males’ romantic and sexual relationships. Thirty-three 14- to 16-year-old males were recruited from an adolescent clinic serving a community with high sexually transmitted infection rates and were asked open-ended questions about their relationships—how they developed, progressed, and ended. Participants described a high degree of relationally oriented beliefs and behaviors related to romantic and sexual relationships, such as a desire for intimacy and trust. The males also described a more limited degree of conventionally masculine beliefs and behaviors. These beliefs and behaviors often coexisted or overlapped. Implications for the clinical care of similar groups of adolescents are described. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objectives. We assessed factors associated with engagement in transactional sex among men who have sex with men recruited from one of the largest Internet sites for men seeking social or sexual interactions with other men in Latin America. Methods. We constructed multilevel logistic regression models to analyze factors associated with engagement in transactional sex in 17 Latin American countries in 2012. Results. Of 24 051 respondents, 1732 (7.2%) reported being paid for sexual intercourse in the past 12 months. In a multivariable model, higher country-level unemployment was associated with increased odds of transactional sex (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.07 per 1% increase in unemployment; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00, 1.13). Individual or interpersonal factors associated with increased odds of engagement in transactional sex included self-reported HIV (AOR = 1.33; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.69) or sexually transmitted infection (AOR = 1.33; 95% CI = 1.11, 1.59), childhood sexual abuse history (AOR = 1.75; 95% CI = 1.48, 2.06), intimate partner violence (past 5 years, AOR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.45, 1.95), and sexual compulsivity (AOR = 1.77; 95% CI = 1.49, 2.11). Conclusions. Structural-level economic interventions and those that address individual and interpersonal factors may improve HIV prevention efforts among men who have sex with men who engage in transactional sex. (Am J Public Health. 2015;105:e95–e102. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2014.302402) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet is a commonly used medium for recruiting geographically dispersed, smaller populations quickly, such as young adult men-who-have-sex-with-men (YMSM). One approach to improve reach and representativeness is to employ multiple Internet platforms to recruit this hard-to-reach population. The utility of this approach has not been studied adequately, and its impact on the study sample recruited is not yet known. Using data from a study of 18- to 24-year-old HIV-uninfected, Black, Hispanic, and White United States (US) YMSM, this investigation compared advertising and enrollment metrics and participant characteristics of those recruited across Internet platforms. Of the 2,444 participants, their median age was 22 years old; 21% were Black, 37% Hispanic, and 42% White; 90% had been tested for HIV at least once in their life; and 87% reported prior condomless anal intercourse (CAI) with another man. There were noticeable differences across platforms in the number of people accessing the study website, meeting study eligibility requirements, consenting to participate, consenting to participate per day of advertising and per click, as well as costs of advertising per consented participant. Participants recruited also varied across platform by race/ethnicity, geographic area of residence in the US, health-care insurance status, years of formal education, history of HIV testing, and CAI by partner type and sexual positioning. The investigation results indicate that the Internet platforms used for recruitment significantly impact not only enrollment but also diversity and characteristics of the sample obtained and consequently, the observations and conclusions rendered.

Time since first engaging in oral or anal sex with another man may act as a marker of engagement in sexual behaviors associated with sexually transmitted infection/HIV transmission among men who have sex with men. Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, with sexual behaviors acting as a primary predictor of disease acquisition. Predictors of engagement in specific sexual behaviors may act as key targets for preventive strategies. We hypothesized that time since first engaging in oral or anal sex with another man, or one's "gay age," is associated with sexual behavior among MSM. Methods: We examined 5280 MSM aged 18 to 40 years who were recruited from social and sexual connection Web sites. We used modified Poisson regression to examine associations between gay age and 4 sexual behaviors (enema use, group sex, receptive anal intercourse, insertive anal intercourse). We used time-varying effect models to examine how the prevalence of these behaviors varies across gay age. Results: In total, 76% of participants reported receptive anal intercourse in the past year, and 76% reported insertive anal intercourse. Group sex and enema use in the past year were reported by 39% and 36%, respectively. Modified Poisson and time-varying effect model analyses indicated that the prevalence of enema use, group sex, and insertive anal intercourse significantly increased with increasing gay age. Conclusions: Gay age may serve as an important marker of engagement in sexual behaviors associated with sexually transmitted infection/HIV acquisition among MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About one-half of new HIV infections in the U.S. are among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Research concerning HIV risk among YMSM, particularly in rural communities, is limited. This study utilized the theory of planned behavior to examine rural YMSM's views of HIV/AIDS prevention. Five YMSM were recruited from rural counties in southern Indiana and interviewed. Several commonalities and key concepts emerged among them. HIV/AIDS was not prominent in their lives. Consistent condom use was a normative belief among their peers but was not always practiced. The Internet provided a non-judgmental and comfortable forum for obtaining sexual health information. These young men's stories demonstrate the need for comprehensive approaches to HIV prevention for YMSM in rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the reasons why parents allowed their adolescent children to participate in longitudinal behavioral research on sexually transmitted infections (STI). Over half of the 134 participants cited benefits that include STI testing, positive interactions and sex education. The adolescents were asked to have an annual physical exam, participate in face-to-face interviews and keep 3-month diaries. The study also showed that parents who perceive that the adolescent is at risk are more likely to consent to their participation in STI research.

Background: Shigellosis is diarrheal disease caused by highly infectious Shigella bacteria. Shigella can spread in multiple ways, including sexual contact. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are particularly at risk for shigellosis. Methods: To evaluate the acceptability of 3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-developed behavioral recommendations for the prevention of sexually transmitted shigellosis, virtual in-depth interviews were conducted among 26 gay or bisexual men in March to May 2021. Results: Participants had a median age of 25 years; 65% were non- Hispanic White, 12% were Hispanic White, 12% Asian, 4% Hispanic Black, and 8% multiracial/other. Respondents indicated willingness to engage in certain prevention behaviors (e.g., washing hands, genitals, and anus before and after sex), but were less willing to engage in behaviors that were viewed as outside social norms or difficult to practice (e.g., dental dams for oral-anal contact; latex gloves for fingering or fisting). Respondents thought recommendations may be more feasible if knowledge of shigellosis was greater; however, some perceived that the severity of shigellosis is low and did not warrant the effort of engaging in prevention behaviors. Conclusions: Educational efforts to increase awareness of shigellosis and other enteric diseases spread through sexual contact are needed and public health practitioners should consider the acceptability of how realistic it is for individuals to engage in certain prevention behaviors. Rather than recommending behaviors that do not have buy-in, it may be more efficacious to focus recommendations on adopting behaviors reported as acceptable to the target audience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mobile app-based interventions have been identified as potential facilitators for vaccination among young men who have sex with men (MSM).Objective: This pilot study aimed to test the feasibility of a theoretically informed mobile health (mHealth) tool designed to reduce health disparities and facilitate human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among a sample of young MSM.Methods: The development of the mHealth tool was guided by previous research, implementation intention theory, and design thinking. We recruited MSM aged 18-26 years through a popular online dating app and linked participants to our mHealth tool, which provided HPV vaccine information and fostered access to care.Results: A total of 42 young MSM participated in this pilot study in Boston, Massachusetts. Participants reported variable HPV knowledge (ie, high knowledge of HPV risk factors and low knowledge of HPV-related cancer risks for men) and positive vaccine beliefs and attitudes. Of those who were either unvaccinated, not up to date, or did not report vaccine status, 23% (8/35) utilized the mHealth tool to obtain HPV vaccination. Participants primarily utilized the tool's (1) educational components and (2) capabilities facilitating concrete vaccine action plans.Conclusions: We recruited an underserved at-risk population of youth via an online dating app for our mHealth intervention that resulted in in-person health care delivery. This study was limited by enrollment challenges, including low willingness to download the mHealth tool to mobile devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2010, the iPrEx trial demonstrated that oral antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduced the risk of HIV acquisition among high-risk men who have sex with men (MSM). The impact of iPrEx on PrEP knowledge and actual use among at-risk MSM is unknown. Online surveys were conducted to assess PrEP awareness, interest and experience among at-risk MSM before and after iPrEx, and to determine demographic and behavioral factors associated with these measures. Methods and Findings: Cross-sectional, national, internet-based surveys were administered to U.S. based members of the most popular American MSM social networking site 2 months before (n = 398) and 1 month after (n = 4 558) publication of iPrEx results. Comparisons were made between these samples with regards to PrEP knowledge, interest, and experience. Data were collected on demographics, sexual risk, and experience with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with PrEP awareness, interest, and experience post-iPrEx. Most participants were white, educated, and indicated high-risk sexual behaviors. Awareness of PrEP was limited pre- and post-iPrEx (13% vs. 19%), whereas interest levels after being provided with a description of PrEP remained high (76% vs. 79%). PrEP use remained uncommon (0.7% vs. 0.9%). PrEP use was associated with PEP awareness (OR 7.46; CI 1.52–36.6) and PEP experience (OR 34.2; CI 13.3–88.4). PrEP interest was associated with older age (OR 1.01; CI 1.00–1.02), unprotected anal intercourse with ≥1 male partner in the prior 3 months (OR 1.40; CI 1.10–1.77), and perceiving oneself at increased risk for HIV acquisition (OR 1.20; CI 1.13–1.27). Conclusions: Among MSM engaged in online networking, awareness of PrEP was limited 1 month after the iPrEx data were released. Utilization was low, although some MSM who reported high-risk behaviors were interested in using PrEP. Studies are needed to understand barriers to PrEP utilization by at-risk MSM.

Background: Recruiting young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in community settings is difficult. The use of Web-based social networks and dating apps for recruitment can be successful approaches, although little work has been done on the impact of study advertisement content on recruitment.Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of advertisement message content on the recruitment of YMSM (aged 18-26 years) for a Web-based focus group study, examining perspectives and preferences for a mobile app that was designed to support sexual health among YMSM.Methods: Between March and April 2017, a recruitment campaign to promote human papillomavirus vaccination was launched on a popular social networking and dating app for YMSM, with 3 different text-based advertisement themes (technology, cancer prevention, and sexual innuendo). The campaign recruited YMSM across 3 states (Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania). We examined the click-through rates, conversion rates, and enrollment rates of each of the advertisements and examined differences in views and clicks by age, state, and time of day.Results: The sexual innuendo advertisement had the highest click rates when compared with both the technology (click rate ratio [CRR] 2.06, 95% CI 1.74-2.45) and cancer prevention (CRR 1.62, 95% CI 1.38-1.90) advertisements. The sexual innuendo advertisement also had higher study enrollment rates compared with the technology (CRR 1.90, 95% CI 1.23-2.83) and cancer prevention (CRR 2.06, 95% CI 1.37-3.13) advertisements. No differences were observed in clicks or enrollment by age, state, or time of day.Conclusions: Our marketing campaign, targeting YMSM, was effective in recruiting participants for a qualitative study, using Web-based focus groups. The sexual innuendo advertisement was the most effective and cost-efficient advertisement of the 3 approaches trialed. Different populations need different targeted strategies for study recruitment. Researchers should work with key representatives to develop and test culturally relevant messaging and approaches that utilize current and popular technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has focused on adolescents' feelings about their first sexual experiences, but little research has examined this topic in sexual minority adolescents. In this study, we examined how experiencing emotional and physical satisfaction at first same-sex anal sex differed by age of first sex for young gay and bisexual men. We applied the time-varying effect model to data from an Internet survey of men who initiated first sex between ages 14–26 (n = 6401) to examine emotional and physical satisfaction at first same-sex anal sex across continuous age of onset and by partner factors. The majority of men reported satisfaction across all ages; however, satisfaction was generally less likely for men who had first anal sex with a non-relationship partner, an older partner, or a partner they had sex with only once and this was particularly true at earlier ages. Findings suggest that many young gay and bisexual men report satisfaction with their first anal sex and that relationship context can be important in predicting satisfaction, particularly at younger ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are identity-based forms of early life adversity. Exposure to SGM ACEs is associated with increased odds of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder in SGM adults. The purpose of this study was to further test a revised version of the measure in a U.S. sample with more robust and clinically relevant mental health outcomes. In May and June 2022, a national sample of SGM adults (N=4,445) was recruited from a Qualtrics Panel to complete a 20-minute online survey that included questions regarding ACEs, SGM ACEs, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to examine factor structure. Multivariable regression was used to assess criterion validity, and a sensitivity analysis was conducted. Data were analyzed in February 2023. Respondents indicate that vicarious trauma (81%) and school bullying (67%) were the most common experiences and that all SGM ACEs were frequently occurring before adulthood. Confirmatory factor analysis determined a 1-factor solution. Participants with more SGM adverse childhood experiences exposure had worse anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (β=0.16, β=0.18, β=0.26, respectively, p <0.0001) after controlling for ACEs exposure and demographic factors. A sensitivity analysis indicated that estimates were similar in terms of magnitude and direction. SGM ACEs commonly and frequently occur before adulthood and impact adult SGM mental health. Overall, the measure had good-to-excellent psychometric properties. Future research should consider integrating SGM ACEs and Minority Stress Theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "HIV Care Continuum among MSM in Latin America Using Online Sexual Networking: Is Engagement in Care Related to Sexual Risk-taking?" by Jessica F. Magidson, Katie B. Biello and colleagues is presented.

Purpose: Young men who have sex with men (MSM) are at an increased risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Recent research has documented the importance of understanding the multidimensional nature of sexual risk behavior; however, little is known about how multidimensional patterns of sexual behavior among MSM may be associated with STIs.Method: This study applies latent class analysis to data from a large, HIV- sample of 18- to 25-year-old MSM recruited from social and sexual networking Web sites (N = 5965; 76% white, 11% Latino, 5% black, 4% Asian, 4% other; 74% homosexual, 21% bisexual, 1% heterosexual, 3%, unsure/questioning 1% other) to uncover multidimensional patterns of past-year sexual behaviors, partner factors, and protective behavior and their associations with self-reported STI diagnosis.Results: We selected a model with 8 classes, with nearly half of participants belonging to a class marked by multiple behaviors with more than 1 partner, and smaller numbers of individuals in classes with a smaller number of behaviors, romantic relationships, and sexual inactivity. Class membership was associated with recent STI diagnosis, with classes marked by no penetrative sex or receptive anal sex with consistent condom use having lower prevalence than those with inconsistent condom use, including those engaging in only insertive anal sex.Conclusions: Findings suggest heterogeneity of behaviors within MSM and that prevention messages may be more effective if they are tailored to individuals' patterns of sexual behavior, as well as demographic and sociocontextual factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by human papillomavirus (HPV)-related outcomes and would benefit from HPV vaccination in adolescence. We assessed HPV vaccine attitudes, uptake, and barriers in this high-risk young MSM (YMSM) population.Methods: An online US sample of 1457 YMSM aged 18 to 26 years were recruited in December 2011 to examine HPV vaccine acceptability and uptake. The online survey included sociodemographics, HPV vaccine attitudes, acceptability, HPV vaccination status, health care use, and HPV knowledge.Results: Despite high use of health care in the past year (86%) and high acceptability (87.8/100) for free HPV vaccine, only 6.8% had received one or more vaccine doses. In addition, only 4% of unvaccinated men had been offered the vaccine by their health care provider (HCP). In a multivariate regression of unvaccinated men, increased vaccine acceptability was associated with an HCP recommendation, worry about getting infected with HPV, and being tested for a sexually transmitted disease in the past year, whereas safety concerns, lower perceived risk of infection, and shame associated with HPV infection/disease were associated with decreased vaccine acceptability. Through logistic regression, vaccine uptake was associated with being tested for a sexually transmitted disease in the past year, disclosure of being gay or bisexual to a doctor, and greater HPV knowledge.Conclusions: Health care providers need to use routine points of contact with YMSM patients to vaccinate against HPV. These data indicated missed opportunities to vaccinate YMSM who are open to HPV vaccination. In the future, HCPs of YMSM should be careful to avoid missed opportunities to vaccinate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite health inequities, many Black sexual minority men are resilient and often utilize spirituality as a culturally distinct self-protective and self-enhancing resource to maintain their health. However, little is known about how spirituality impacts health within a cultural framework that is specific to Black sexual minority men. We conducted 10 individual in-depth interviews, reaching code saturation, with Black sexual minority men across the USA. Our study was guided by grounded theory and a Black psychology theoretical framework. Seven themes were discovered and revealed that participants' level of spiritual consciousness influenced their engagement in psychological and behavioral processes that were related to mental and physical health. These themes were: (a) suboptimal worldview, (b) emotional revelation, (c) emotional emancipation, (d) emotional regulation, (e) health motivations, (f) health behaviors, and (g) links between spiritual consciousness, mental health, and physical health. Implications of these findings for clinicians and researchers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Gay and bisexual men may feel discomfort discussing sensitive topics such as sexual behaviors and substance use with their health providers, which may prevent them from receiving important health information. This study investigates whether patients' perceptions of their provider's sexual orientation predicts patient-provider discussions of sexual and general health topics, and whether this relationship is moderated by patients' disclosure of sexual orientation to providers.Methods: Data were collected online from a sample of 576 gay and bisexual men living in the USA, aged 18-26. Adjusted risk ratios were estimated by using modified Poisson regression with robust error variance.Results: Participants who believed their providers were gay or bisexual were more likely to have discussed sexual health topics, but not general health topics; simple slopes analyses revealed that this effect was stronger among those who had not disclosed to their providers. Disclosure was also consistently associated with increased likelihood of discussing almost all topics.Conclusions: Findings highlight differences in communication based on disclosure and perceived sexual orientation of provider, suggesting the need to further explore how these differences influence young gay and bisexual men's health.Practice Implications: Dyads may be more likely to discuss sexual health topics when patients believe their providers are sexual minorities themselves. In addition, patient-provider dyads may be likelier to discuss various health topics when providers are aware of patients' sexual minority statuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being grouped together in epidemiological risk categories, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) are not a homogenous group. In addition to traditional segmentation along race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, many GBM also identify with sexual subcultural communities. Previous research has shown differences across a variety of health outcomes between these sexual subcultural communities. The purpose of this study was to determine whether HIV prevention practices among GBM differed according to sexual subcultural community. The study was conducted in collaboration with a popular social and sexual networking smartphone application company. A total of 23,577 GBM responded to the survey. A latent class analysis identified 6 distinct classes related to sexual subcultural community identification. We found significant differences across sociodemographic characteristics, HIV prevention practices, and condomless anal sex in the past 6 months related to sexual subculture identification. Findings suggest that sexual subcultural identity is related to decision-making around HIV prevention among GBM. Differences in HIV prevention strategies are likely a function of group norms, unique shared experiences among GBM identifying with a particular sexual subculture community, and sociodemographic characteristics associated with these groups. As such, sexual subculture identity should be considered in developing interventions and social marketing campaigns to increase uptake of biomedical HIV prevention tools among GBM. Identifying group norms and shared experiences related to HIV prevention practices among sexual subcultures is necessary to understand the role these identities play in lives of GBM, especially as it relates to their sexual health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: The purpose of this review is to update what is known about sexual orientation and gender identity development, including factors that facilitate positive development, and healthcare experiences of sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) in relation to their identity. Recent Findings: Models of identity development have been proposed that draw on the experiences of young people and their families rather than adult models of identity development. Family support can both help and hinder identity development, and healthcare providers are in a unique position to intervene. However, SGMY and their families experience significant barriers to accessing appropriate and affirming healthcare. Summary: Key improvements in provider knowledge, healthcare systems, quality of care, and support for SGMY and their families are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In the United States, all men who have sex with men (MSM) were banned from donating blood from 1985 through 2015. In 2016, the guideline was amended such that men who had sexual contact with other men within the previous 12 months could not donate blood. We aimed to identify blood donation practices and their relationship with HIV risk and testing among young adult MSM (YMSM) at risk for having HIV. Methods: In 2014, we recruited HIV-negative non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic white YMSM aged 18-24 from across the United States through social media platforms to complete an online survey. Among these YMSM who previously donated blood, we conducted a secondary analysis examining the relationship between having donated blood within the past 12 months and sexual risk behavior from recent condomless anal intercourse (CAI), HIV testing, and self-perceived risk of having an undiagnosed HIV infection. Results: Of the 2261 YMSM surveyed, 1104 (48.8%) had ever previously donated blood and 305 (13.5%) had donated blood within the past 12 months. Of the 305 blood donors, 50 (16.4%) had ever had CAI before their most recent blood donation. Among YMSM who donated blood, past–12-month blood donation was more likely among YMSM who never had CAI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.24-2.73) than among YMSM who had CAI and more likely among YMSM who believed it was not possible at all that they had an undiagnosed HIV infection (aOR = 1.57; 95% CI, 1.14-2.16) than among YMSM who believed there was any possibility of having an undiagnosed HIV infection; it was not related to past–12-month HIV testing. Conclusions: YMSM donated blood frequently, suggesting that the deferral process in place did not prevent YMSM from donating blood. The current donor screening process should be reconsidered if it is to prevent YMSM from donating blood. Future research could identify screening questions that permit YMSM with a low risk of HIV infection to donate blood while maintaining the safety of the blood supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information shared in schools on sex education in the USA is highly variable depending on the state and sometimes city in which a student lives. Gay and bisexual students living in a socially conservative, primarily rural state such as Oklahoma often receive little information about sexual health information that pertains to their behaviours unless it is discussing the dangers of sex. Using a qualitative approach, 20 gay and bisexual men currently residing in Oklahoma completed semi-structured interviews about their experiences with sex education and alternate ways to compensate for lack of information provided. Participants noted an awareness of the lack of meaningful sex education or if it was offered, a primary focus on abstinence-only until marriage heteronormative curricula. Participants described various ways they compensated for lack of sex education including accessing pornography and information from the internet. With the current socio-political environment of Oklahoma, it is unlikely wholesale changes to the sex education curricula can be made. The importance of public health professionals using the internet and peer educators to deliver inclusive and informative sexual health information remains salient and viable for men who reside in socio-politically conservative areas like Oklahoma. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Despite the high prevalence of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) among men who have sex with men (MSM) and its well-documented association with substance use in adulthood, little research has examined the psychological mechanisms underlying this association. The current study utilized a large, multinational sample of MSM in Latin America to examine the role of distress intolerance (i.e., decreased capacity to withstand negative psychological states) in the relationship between childhood sexual abuse history and problematic alcohol use.Methods: As part of an online survey conducted among members of the largest social/sexual networking website for MSM in Latin America, participants (n=19,451) completed measures of childhood sexual abuse history, distress intolerance, and problematic alcohol use (CAGE score>=2).Results: Participants who reported a history of childhood sexual abuse indicated higher levels of distress intolerance, which was in turn associated with greater odds of engaging in problematic alcohol use. A mediation analysis further showed that distress intolerance partially accounted for the significant association between childhood sexual abuse history and problematic alcohol use.Conclusion: These findings provide initial evidence for the role of distress intolerance as a process through which early trauma shapes MSM health later in life. These findings also underscore the potential utility of addressing distress intolerance in alcohol use prevention and intervention efforts that target MSM with a history of childhood sexual abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research demonstrated that more men, particularly those in couple relationships, are using vibrators to enhance sexual pleasure. However, men's perceptions of vibrator use with a partner have rarely been investigated. The purpose of this analysis was to study men's perceptions of the impact of vibrator use on their and their partner's sexual pleasure and sexual satisfaction. Forty-nine men, aged twenty-five to fifty-eight, in heterosexual relationships responded to a series of open-ended questions regarding their experience of incorporating a couple-oriented vibrator into their sexual repertoire over a six-week period. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The data were organized into four themes: physical pleasure, awareness of partner's experience, novelty and variety, and intimacy. Men's experiences of sexual pleasure were tied to perceptions of their partner's pleasure and to the addition of novelty and variety in sexual encounters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface water connectivity can influence the richness and composition of fish assemblages, particularly in harsh environments where colonisation factors and access to seasonal refugia are required for species persistence., Studies regarding influence of connectivity on Arctic fish distributions are limited and are rarely applied to whole assemblage patterns. To increase our understanding of how surface water connectivity and related hydrologic variables influence assemblage patterns, we investigated species richness and composition of Arctic lake fishes over a large region, 8500 km2, of the central Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska., We collected fish presence/non-detection data from 102 lakes and used a hierarchical multispecies occupancy framework to derive species richness and inform species composition patterns. Our mean estimate of regional richness was 12.3 ( SD 0.5) species. Presence of a permanent channel connection was an overriding factor affecting species richness (mean 3.6, 95% CI 3.1-4.9), presumably driving lake colonisation potential. In lakes without a permanent channel connection, data suggest richness (mean 2.0, 95% CI 1.7-3.3) increased with the availability of in-lake winter refugia and with the potential of ephemeral connections during spring floods., Fish species functional traits and environmental faunal filters contributed to patterns of richness and assemblage composition. Composition corresponded with richness in a coherent manner, where each successive level of richness contained several discrete assemblages that showed similar responses to the environment. Lakes with permanent channel connections contained both widespread and restricted species, while the species-poor lakes that lacked a connection contained mainly widespread species., This work provides useful baseline information on the processes that drive the relations between patch connectivity and fish species richness and assemblage composition. The environmental processes that organise fish assemblages in Arctic lakes are likely to change in a warming climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A list of reviewers for the issue is presented, which includes Abimbola, Seye; Barimah, Kofi; and Canavera, Mark.

Purpose: To investigate the hypothesis that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) lower lung cancer risk.Methods: We analysed pooled individual-level data from seven case-control and one cohort study in the International Lung Cancer Consortium (ILCCO). Relative risks for lung cancer associated with self-reported history of aspirin and other NSAID use were estimated within individual studies using logistic regression or proportional hazards models, adjusted for packyears of smoking, age, calendar period, ethnicity and education and were combined using random effects meta-analysis.Results: A total of 4,309 lung cancer cases (mean age at diagnosis 65 years, 45% adenocarcinoma and 22% squamous-cell carcinoma) and 58,301 non-cases/controls were included. Amongst controls, 34% had used NSAIDs in the past (81% of them used aspirin). After adjustment for negative confounding by smoking, ever-NSAID use (affirmative answer to the study-specific question on NSAID use) was associated with a 26% reduction (95% confidence interval 8 to 41%) in lung cancer risk in men, but not in women (3% increase (-11% to 30%)). In men, the association was stronger in current and former smokers, and for squamous-cell carcinoma than for adenocarcinomas, but there was no trend with duration of use. No differences were found in the effects on lung cancer risk of aspirin and non-aspirin NSAIDs.Conclusions: Evidence from ILCCO suggests that NSAID use in men confers a modest protection for lung cancer, especially amongst ever-smokers. Additional investigation is needed regarding the possible effects of age, duration, dose and type of NSAID and whether effect modification by smoking status or sex exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: [11C]Hemicholinium-15 ([11C]HC-15) and [18F]hemicholinium-15 ([18F]HC-15) have been synthesized as new potential PET tracers for the heart high-affinity choline uptake (HACU) system. [11C]HC-15 was prepared by N-[11C]methylation of the appropriate precursor, 4-methyl-2-phenyl-morpholin-2-ol, using [11C]CH3OTf in 55–70% radiochemical yield decay corrected to end of bombardment (EOB) and 2–3Ci/μmol specific activity at end of synthesis (EOS). [18F]HC-15 was prepared by N-[18F]fluoromethylation of the precursor using [18F]FCH2OTf in 20–30% radiochemical yield decay corrected to EOB and >1.0Ci/μmol specific activity at EOS. The biodistribution of both compounds was determined in rats at 20min post-intravenous injection, and the results show the heart region uptakes 1.32±0.75%ID/g in R-ventricle for [11C]HC-15 and 1.28±0.81%ID/g in L-ventricle for [18F]HC-15, respectively. The dynamic PET imaging studies of [11C]HC-15 in rats were acquired 60min post-intravenous injection of the tracer using the IndyPET-II scanner. For the blocking experiments, the rats were intravenously pretreated with 3.0mg/kg of unlabeled HC-15 prior to [11C]HC-15 injection. [11C]HC-15 rat heart PET studies show rapid heart uptake to give clear heart images. The rat heart PET blocking studies found no significant blocking effect. The dynamic PET studies in normal and ablated dogs were performed using Siemens PET scanner with [13N]NH3, [11C]HC-15, and [18F]HC-15. PET studies in dogs of both [11C]HC-15 and [18F]HC-15 also show significant heart uptake and give images of the heart. However, there is no significant change in [11C]HC-15 L-ventricle uptake following radiofrequency ablation in the dog. These results suggest that the localization of HC-15 tracers in the heart is mediated by non-specific processes, and the visualization of HC-15 tracers on the heart is related to non-specific binding of HACU. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Many qualitative studies about the exchange of sex for money, drugs, and less tangible outcomes (i.e., social status) contend that this activity contributes to high levels of internalized stigma among people in sex work. The cis (n = 33) and trans people (n = 5) who participated in our project about health, violence, and social services acknowledged the stigma associated with sex work but were not governed by the dominant discourse about its moral stain. They shared nuanced insights about the relationship between sex work and self-respect as people who use their earnings to mitigate the struggles of poverty and ongoing drug use, and care for themselves more broadly. This study sheds new light on the ways that cis and trans people negotiate issues of money, agency, and self-care, contributing to the literature on consensual sex work that examines different aspects of stigma, safety, and health with a nuanced, non-binary gender analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of HIV infection. However, there are only few data on HIV prevalence in MSM in Japan. The objective of this study was to explore the HIV prevalence in MSM at Shinjuku 2-chome, a well known gay quarter in Tokyo.Methods: MSM directly collected the dried blood spot (DBS) self-collection HIV test kit from a drop-in center in Shinjuku 2-chome between August 2015 and December 2016. The participants collected their own blood by finger-prick and anonymously posted the kit to the laboratory. The participants accessed the study website and checked the results of their tests using unique ID and password. DBS was soaked in phosphate buffered saline overnight and the eluted sample was examined by the fourth generation HIV Ag/Ab test of LUMIPULSE (FUJIREBIO INC.), and followed by HISCL (Sysmex Corp.) when the first assay was positive. The result was defined provisionally positive if both were positive.Results: A total of 1702 HIV test kits were distributed and 1403 DBS were returned (return rate: 82.4%). Since 20.2% of participants collected the test kit more than once, the estimated number of actual test kit users was 1120. Based on the results of the test kit, 34 cases were provisionally diagnosed with HIV. The estimated prevalence was 3.04% (95% confidence interval: 2.03-4.04). Of these 34, 24 (70.6%) were later confirmed to be HIV-positive in the hospital, while the remaining 10 were lost to follow-up. Among the participants, 34.5% received HIV test for the first time. Especially in those aged 20-29, 46.0% were first time HIV testers.Conclusions: The prevalence of HIV infection in the study population was 3.04%. The high collection suggested a demand for this type of testing in MSM. The test should be expanded further to difficult-to-reach or hidden populations.Trial Registration: This study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry in August 20th, 2015 (Registry number: UMIN000018699 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]