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Studies assessing the relationship between religiosity and sexual behaviors in youth are limited by their use of single‐aspect measures of religiosity, assumption of linearity, and focus on coital behaviors. This study assessed how multidimensional latent profiles of religiosity were associated both with sexual risk behaviors and noncoital sex. Data were gathered using a national sample of emerging adults in Croatia (N = 1,210; Mage = 21.74, 48.0 percent female). Latent profile analysis provided a three‐profile model as the most robust solution, differentiating among the low, moderate, and high religiosity groups. The gradient pattern (differences among all profiles) was observed only in the association between religiosity and the frequency of masturbation and experiencing oral sex. The relationship between religiosity and other sexual behaviors either was nonlinear or not found. Overall, religiosity was associated with a more limited sexual repertoire. Its protective effect in sexual risk taking was small but relevant for the most religious youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to provide epidemiological information on drug-facilitated sexual assault in Spanish youth partying, with a focus on prevalence rates and associated sociodemographic factors. Cross-sectional study. Quota sampling was used to recruit 1601 young people aged 18–35 years in Spain from a digital panel. A validated questionnaire on drug-facilitated sexual assault was used to assess five types of lifetime victimisation experiences while partying. Chi-square and the exact Fisher tests were used to describe the prevalence of victimisation, drug use patterns, and perpetrator profiles. Generalised ordered logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with victimisation, analysed by gender. Half of young women and one-quarter of young men had experienced drug-facilitated sexual assault in their lifetime. Female victimisation due to touching and kissing was notably high, whereas men comprised almost half of the victims of more invasive DFSA experiences involving masturbation, penetration, and oral sex. Opportunism prevailed as the assault tactic, consisting of taking advantage of the victims' incapacity derived from voluntary alcohol use. Among women, risk of victimisation was associated with a lower education level, foreign-born status, and being non-heterosexual. Male victimisation risk was highest among non-heterosexual men. Drug-facilitated sexual violence in youth nightlife contexts is a serious public health issue in Spain, which requires urgent action. Most assaults involve taking advantage of victims who are incapacitated by the effects of voluntary alcohol consumption. This sexual violence primarily affects women with lower educational levels or those who are foreign-born and non-heterosexual men and women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex and the City and The L Word were two groundbreaking television shows aimed at female audiences featuring explicit sexual content and queer characters; however, both have received little research attention over the last two decades. This is a serious omission in light of their popularity and their enduring capacity to influence viewers through streaming platforms as well as the successful launch of two revival series, And Just Like That... and The L Word: Generation Q. The purpose of this study was to examine depictions of sexual behaviours in the original runs of Sex and the City and The L Word and compare both with their respective revivals. Sexual behaviours across all episodes of the original runs of both shows and the first season of each revival were coded using a sheet and codebook developed for this study. Results showed that The L Word contained more explicit instances of oral sex and intimate touching, whereas Sex and the City showed more explicit instances of kissing and total explicit behaviours. The original run of Sex and the City contained more total explicit behaviours and more explicit kissing compared to its revival, but The L Word featured fewer instances of explicit penetrative/genital sexual behaviours compared to its revival. The implications of these findings for viewers, clinicians, and sex educators are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While the existence of a complex variety of casual sexual relationships (CSRs) has been acknowledged, studies rarely describe the prevalence of condom use across these relationships or how their hybrid nature, specifically relationship characteristics, affect condom use. This study aims to describe condom use within committed relationships and various types of casual sexual relationships (CSRs), examining the influence of relationship characteristics on condom use among culturally validated relationship types (committed, friends with benefits, hookups, booty call). Methods: Emerging adults (N = 728, 18–29 years, M = 22.56; SD = 3.01) completed a survey with four blocks: sociodemographics; brief sexual history; relationships over the previous year; and current relationship, assessing relationship type, ten relationship characteristics (e.g., commitment, emotional and sexual exclusivity, partner acquaintance, sexual involvement) and condom use (vaginal, oral, and anal), operationalized by three measures (use at last encounter, likert-type scale and percentage of use). Results: The results showed patterns in condom use by relationship type and illuminated how relationship characteristics—grouped into three factors: commitment, intimacy, and sexuality—mediate condom use. Condom use was more frequent in vaginal than anal and oral sex, and less frequent in committed relationships. No significant differences were found in condom use in vaginal sex between committed relationships and hookups, with condom in these relationships being significantly lower than in booty call. Intimacy mediated between all contrasts tested and condom use in vaginal sex, while sexuality mediated between committed vs. CSRs and condom use in anal and oral sex. Conclusions: Findings point to the need of considering the diversity of CSRs for understanding condom use and highlight the role of intimacy as a relevant mechanism associated with condom use in vaginal sex and of sexuality in oral and anal sex, which should be taken into consideration in the tailoring of health promoting efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This cross-sectional survey aimed to explore the reasons for receiving the HPV vaccination among eligible adults in Italy. Methods: The survey was conducted from July 2023 to April 2024 in Naples, Southern Italy. Results: A total of 282 questionnaires were collected. The majority of the respondents (73.2%) was aware that HPV vaccination was recommended and this was more likely among women, healthcare workers (HCWs) or students in health sciences, and those who had acquired information from physicians. The most frequently cited reasons for vaccinating were self-protection from the infection (77.6%) and from cervical/oral/penile/anal cancer (68.9%), knowing that the vaccination was free of charge (46.2%), awareness of the severity of the HPV disease (43%), to protect their partner (42.6%), and perception of being at risk (24.2%). Being HCWs or students in health sciences, believing that HPV infection could cause a serious disease, and having a higher number of oral intercourse experiences in the last year were significant predictors of the perception of being at risk. Female and Italian respondents were more likely to receive the HPV vaccination because it was effective in preventing cancer. Conclusions: Targeted educational programs and health interventions should be developed to ensure enhancing knowledge and fostering positive attitudes toward the HPV vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveys of the Italian population typically assess general sexual behaviors (e.g., oral, vaginal and anal intercourse). However, little is known about other sexual behavior such as rough sexual behaviors, choking and slapping. Thus, an online cross-sectional survey of 4618 Italian participants was conducted. In the past month, the most prevalent sexual behaviors were solo masturbation (93.6%), partner masturbation (80.0%), oral sex (71.4% received, 75.9% performed), penile–vaginal intercourse (75.7%) and anal intercourse (12.5% received, 7.1% performed). Regarding rough sexual behaviors, the most common behaviors performed were spanking (23.3% received, 55.5% performed), choking (13.2% receive, 60.0% performed), slapping (30.1% received, 20.9% performed) and name calling (44.5% received, 37.0% performed). Our results suggest a gender difference where men and transgender/non-binary individuals perform more rough sexual behaviors compared to women. Moreover, regarding the role of consent in behaviors such as choking and slapping, our results highlight the importance of sexual and affective education to implement sexual assertiveness. In conclusion, this study adds knowledge to the limited literature on this topic, especially with respect to the Italian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Models depicting sexual desire as responsive to sexual arousal may be particularly apt for women experiencing arousal or desire difficulties, and the degree to which arousal triggers desire may depend on the relationship context and desire target and timing—yet, these associations have not been directly tested among women with and without sexual interest/arousal disorder (SIAD). Aim: To assess the role of SIAD status and relationship satisfaction in the associations between genital arousal and 4 types of responsive desire. Methods: One hundred women (n = 27 meeting diagnostic criteria for SIAD) in romantic relationships with men viewed a sexual film (pleasurable intimate depiction of oral sex and penile-vaginal intercourse) while their genital arousal was recorded via vaginal photoplethysmography (n = 63) or thermal imaging of the labia (n = 37). Partner and solitary desire was assessed immediately before and after the film (immediate desire) and 3 days later (delayed desire). Outcomes: Outcomes consisted of genital response (z scored by method) and associations between genital response and responsive sexual desire. Results: The key difference between women with and without SIAD was not in their ability to experience genital arousal but in how their genital responses translated to responsive sexual desire. Women with SIAD actually exhibited greater genital arousal than unaffected women. Associations between genital arousal and desire were significant only for women with SIAD and depended on relationship satisfaction and desire type. For women with SIAD with low relationship satisfaction, higher arousal predicted lower immediate desire for a partner; for those with high relationship satisfaction, arousal was either positively related (vaginal photoplethysmography) or unrelated (thermal imaging of the labia) to immediate desire for a partner. Associations with other desire types were not significant. Clinical Implications: Patterns of genital arousal and partner-specific responsive desire among women affected with SIAD were indicative of an avoidance model in response to heightened genital arousal, unless relationship satisfaction was high; attending to genital arousal sensations could be a means of triggering sexual desire for women with SIAD who are satisfied in their relationships. Strengths and Limitations: This is one of the first sexual psychophysiologic studies to connect relationship factors to patterns of sexual response. The differing arousal assessment procedures and lack of official diagnosis may have attenuated results. The homogeneous sample and in-person session requirement limit generalizability. Conclusion: When compared with unaffected women, women affected by SIAD may exhibit stronger arousal responses with sufficiently incentivized sexual stimuli, and the connection between their genital arousal and responsive desire for their partners may be stronger and more dependent on relationship context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the unique roles that body and genital image play in behavior-specific orgasm consistency, beyond overall sexual self-esteem. US adults (N = 599; 64% women) completed questionnaires online. Hierarchical regression analyses predicted orgasm consistency during receptive oral sex and penile-vaginal intercourse (PVI) with additional clitoral stimulation (WAS) and with no additional clitoral stimulation (NAS) for the woman. Body image, genital image, and gender were entered in later steps to assess model improvement above sexual self-esteem. Models accounted for age, sexual and racial minority identities, and current relationship status. Results indicated that genital image improved all models and predicted higher orgasm consistency across all behaviors for men and women. For orgasm during receptive oral sex and PVI–NAS, sexual self-esteem was no longer significant once genital image was included. Genital image was a stronger predictor of women's versus men's orgasm during PVI–NAS; no significant gender differences were found for oral sex and PVI–WAS. Body image was not significant in any models, contrary to expectations, suggesting role overlap with sexual self-esteem. Genital image appears to play a unique role in sexual pleasure beyond overall sexual self-esteem and body image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer, but it is associated with adverse drug reactions like oral mucositis. This condition destroys basal cells in the oral mucosal layer, causing inflammation and ulceration. This can impact the patient's physical, emotional, and psychological well‐being, affecting treatment outcomes and quality of life. This study aims to determine the prevalence, severity, and risk factors of chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis among adult cancer patients. Methods: The study was a cross‐sectional study conducted among adult cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at the cancer unit of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital in southwestern Uganda. Data was collected through patient interviews, oral examinations, and patient chart reviews. Results: Out of 268 patients, 115 (42.9%) experienced oral mucositis. Grade 2 oral mucositis was the most common (44.3%) followed by grade 1 (35.7%) and grade 3 (20.0%). Independent risk factors of chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis were female gender (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27–3.78; p‐value = 0.005), poor oral hygiene (AOR = 3.70, 95% CI: 1.51–9.10; p‐value = 0.04), and receiving chemotherapy containing an alkylating agent (AOR = 3.17, 95% CI: 1.63–6.19; p‐value < 0.001). Conclusion: The study found that two out of five chemotherapy patients developed oral mucositis, with nearly half being grade 2. The risk factors identified in our study were comparable to those reported in previous studies. Therefore, identification and assessment of cancer patients at high risk for chemotherapy‐induced oral mucositis should be routinely done for proper and timely management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Toxoplasma gondii is one of the most widespread parasites in the human population globally. Several modes of its transmission have been proposed: some are well-researched and confirmed, others remain unconfirmed. One unconfirmed hypothesis pertains to potential transmission of Toxoplasma gondii via oral sex (fellatio) in humans. A recent study found tissue cysts in the semen of men with latent toxoplasmosis. Therefore, we aimed to test the hypothesis of Toxoplasma gondii transmission through oral sex experimentally. Methods: Eighty-two laboratory mice were orally administered semen samples from 41 men with latent toxoplasmosis. These semen samples were examined for the presence of Toxoplasma gondii DNA using PCR. Results: We detected Toxoplasma gondii DNA in three of the 41 semen samples from men with latent toxoplasmosis. Oral administration of semen samples to laboratory mice did not result in parasite transmission. Conclusion: We have not demonstrated the transmission of Toxoplasma to mice by oral exposure to semen from infected men. While this does not conclusively rule out the possibility of such transmission in humans, the results suggest that, if it does occur, this mode of transmission is likely infrequent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are limited studies examining the early experiences of adolescent men who have sex with men (MSM), and the magnitude of changes in sexual practice among adolescent MSM is unclear. Therefore, we compared the sexual practice and trajectory among adolescent men who are MSM aged 16–20 years in two cohorts, 5 years apart in Melbourne, Australia. Methods: A total of 200 self-identified same-sex attracted men aged 16–20 years were recruited in each of HYPER1 (2010–2012) and HYPER2 (2017–2018) using similar methodology. Men completed a questionnaire about their sexual practices. Men were also asked to report the age of first sex with different sexual activities with men and women. Results: Compared to HYPER1, the median age at first sex with men was slightly increased in HYPER2: receiving oral sex (17.2 years in HYPER2 vs 16.5 years in HYPER1), performing oral sex (17.3 years vs 16.4 years), receptive anal sex (18 years vs 17.0 years) and insertive anal sex (18 years vs 17.3 years). Similar patterns were also observed in sexual practice with women: performing oral sex (17.0 years in HYPER2 vs 16.8 years in HYPER1), receiving oral sex (17.0 years vs 16.3 years) and vaginal sex (17.0 years vs 16.7 years). Conclusions: In general, there was a small delay in first-sex activity among adolescent MSM between two cohorts 5 years apart. Most adolescent MSM started their sexual practices before the age of 18 years and have engaged in activities that are at risk of HIV and STI. Health education and promotion, including regular sexual health check-ups, are important for HIV and STI prevention and intervention in this population. This study documents adolescent men who have sex with men aged between 16 and 20 years and assesses the magnitude of change in sexual practice and trajectory in this population. Compared to an earlier study cohort, the median age at first sex was slightly increased in this cohort and there was a small delay in first-sex activity. This study elicits evidence of changes in sexual practice which could translate into targeted sexually transmitted infections prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes changes in young adults' sexual behaviors during the early COVID-19 pandemic. Latent class growth analyses (LCGAs) conducted with four waves of data collected between July 2019 to May 2020 in N = 775 college students (Mage = 18.61, SD = 0.33; 50.3% female, 90.2% White) revealed the presence of high- and low-risk classes in separate models for oral, vaginal, and anal sexual risk taking. As anticipated, vaginal and oral risk taking declined in spring 2020. Membership in high-risk trajectories was attributable to high COVID-19-related financial problems, early sexual debut, low selfcontrol, and being in a romantic relationship. Other COVID-19 factors and demographic control variables were not linked to trajectory membership. Thus, while many young adults' sexual risk taking changed during the early pandemic, their perceptions of and experiences with COVID-19 were not predictive of sexual risk trajectory membership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Awareness of risk for oropharyngeal cancer from oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is low among men in the United States. This pilot study tested messages communicating oral HPV and oropharyngeal cancer risk among a sample of U.S. young adult men (aged 18–26). Six oral HPV and cancer risk messages were tested in an online survey. Participants (N = 68) were randomly assigned to one of two message sets, each containing three unique text-based messages. Participants evaluated messages separately based on various measures (e.g., perceived message effectiveness [PME], novelty). One-way repeated measures ANOVAs were used to assess evaluation differences within message sets. Participants provided open-ended feedback about each message, which were synthesized into overarching themes. Participants were receptive to the risk messages, rating them high on PME (mean range = 3.72–4.25 out of 5) and other measures. Analyses identified three high-performing messages. For example, participants rated a message about HPV-linked oropharyngeal cancer risk rates in men versus women higher on attention and novelty than two other messages in the same set (both p s <.05). Participants were shown three messages (instead of all six) in each message set to minimize survey fatigue. Common themes from open-ended feedback were that participants liked the short-form structure of the messages and that the messages used gender-tailored language. In conclusion, oral HPV and oropharyngeal cancer risk messages may be useful for increasing risk awareness among men in the U.S. Further work should test such messages in rigorous experimental contexts to assess their efficacy in modifying other health outcomes, such as HPV vaccination behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral human papillomavirus (HPV) is common among healthy individuals but causes and implications of persistent infections are under evaluation in the pathogenesis of head and neck neoplasms. This was a retrospective study evaluating the prevalence of high-risk (HR), probable HR and low-risk (LR) HPV types in patients reporting signs/symptoms of oral and upper respiratory tract lesions. Individuals attending between 2019 and 2022 a University Hospital in Milan, Italy, with risk factors for HPV (unprotected oral sex and/or previous documentation of HPV infection in oral and upper respiratory tract and/or another anatomical site) were included. Fourteen out of 110 (12.7%) individuals tested positive for HPV DNA. The prevalence of HR-HPV and LR-HPV was 3.6% (4/110) and 9.1% (10/110), respectively. No probable/possible HR-HPV was detected. Specifically, 10/110 (9.1%) were diagnosed with 1 LR-HPV genotype, 3/110 (2.7%) were infected with 1 HR-HPV and 1/110 had 3 concomitant HR-HPV types. HPV 16 (2.7%, 3/110) and 6 (4.5%, 5/110) were the most common HR and LR types, respectively. One patient positive for HPV 16, 33 and 35 was diagnosed with cancer at the base of the tongue. Two individuals among those who tested positive for HPV DNA reported previous HPV vaccination. Our data, in line with observations from previous prevalence studies, support the potential role of HPV in head and neck neoplasms. HPV DNA testing should be performed in patients presenting lesions in oral/respiratory tracts and risk factors for HPV. Improvement in HPV vaccination coverage is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-risk sexual behavior is the primary risk factor for the acquisition and persistence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the development of HPV-associated diseases including cancer. Incidence of HPV infection is high among individuals in their late teens and early 20s. Thus, college students represent a historically high-risk group for HPV infection yet are also a group with the ability to independently access HPV vaccination for HPV prevention. To inform future interventions, we examined factors associated with HPV-associated risky sexual behaviors among sexually active college students. Data (N = 741) were from an anonymous online survey distributed to students at a public Midwestern university in 2021. The outcomes were HPV-associated sexual risk behaviors—number of oral or vaginal sexual partners [high (≥ 5) or low (< 5)] and age of oral or vaginal sexual debut [early (< 18 years) or late (≥ 18 years)]. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated the association between HPV-associated risky sexual behaviors and several predictors including age, gender, relationship status, academic level, country of birth, and rural–urban status. Among sexually active students, approximately 47% and 41% had a high number of lifetime vaginal and oral partners, respectively. Among the same group, 60% and 64% had early vaginal and oral sexual debut. Students who were single and dating (aOR = 1.93; 95% CI = 1.21, 3.08) or single and not dating (2.11; 1.28, 3.48) were more likely to have a high number of vaginal lifetime partners compared with married students. Single (vs. married) students were also about twice as likely to have a high number of oral lifetime partners. Relative to graduate students, freshmen/sophomores were more likely to have an early vaginal (2.44; 1.45, 4.11) and oral (2.14; 1.26, 3.63) sexual debut. Interventions tailored to college freshmen/sophomores and unmarried students should encourage students to receive the HPV vaccine for prevention of future HPV-associated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown the heightened risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual risk behavior, and substance use in sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals. Further research is necessary to understand understudied sexual risk behaviors in a sample of casual substance users as the implications of substance use are not just experienced by individuals with substance use disorders. Many emerging adults (ages 18-29) experiment with substance use during the transition from adolescence to adulthood and the relationship with sexual risk behaviors are important to understand in this population. Data were collected online through Prolific from 75 participants between the ages of 18-29 who identified as being a SGM. Participants completed a survey in March 2020 indicating their substance use. In November 2021, participants indicated their risky sexual behaviors. A path analysis indicated that cannabis use at Time 1 was significantly associated with greater oral sex without a condom or dental dam, sex under the influence of alcohol and other substances at Time 2. Cocaine use at Time 1 was significantly associated with increased sex under the influence of alcohol and sex with a stranger. Results illustrate long-term implications of casual substance use in SGM populations and highlights understudied sexual risk behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral cancers comprise 50% of all head and neck malignancies in India which can be attributed to tobacco chewing. Advanced oral cancers are managed with surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or adjuvant chemoradiation. There is paucity of studies regarding need for adjuvant treatment in oral cancers with close margins i.e. ≤ 0.5 cm after formalin fixation. This study aims at documenting the oncological outcome with regards to loco-regional control, disease-free survival, overall survival and complications of adjuvant radiotherapy and adjuvant chemoradiation in operated oral cancer patients having close margins of resection. In this Retrospective cohort study, 163 patients with stage T1–T4 oral cancers operated between 2015 and 2019 who have fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria, received adjuvant treatment and could be followed up for at least one year were included. At the end of 45 months, the overall survival was 74.7% and disease specific survival was 82.7%. Among the 7 patients who defaulted radiotherapy, 4 patients succumbed to the disease. Complications were bone marrow depression (2 patients), dysphagia (17) and Trismus (1). Adjuvant radiotherapy should be given in oral cancer patients with close margins of resection since it improves the oncological outcome and disease specific survival and the benefit often outweighs the risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides an overview of the reforms made to sexual assault laws in the United States through the Model Penal Code (MPC). The MPC seeks to update and clarify definitions and punishments for sexual assault offenses, with a focus on the concept of consent. The document discusses the different forms of sexual contact and the mental state of the offender, as well as the compromises made during the reform process. It also compares the MPC's provisions to those in German law and acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the adoption of the MPC's recommendations by individual states. [Extracted from the article]

Sexual cognitions are an important aspect of sexual well-being for all individuals; however, little is known about the sexual cognitions of autistic individuals. Therefore, our study aimed to explore the diversity, content, and frequencies of positive (PSC) and negative (NSC) sexual cognitions in this population. A total of 332 participants (57.5% women; 42.5% men) between the ages of 21 and 73 (M = 37.72, SD = 11.15) completed an online survey. Our results showed that almost all participants had experienced both positive and negative sexual cognitions. PSC were more diverse and experienced with greater frequency than NSC. In addition, gender (self-identified as being male) and having had relationship experience were associated with greater diversity and frequency of PSC, but not NSC. In terms of content, the most common experienced sexual cognitions for both men and women were intimacy-related. The men experienced 22 of the 56 PSC and 3 of the 56 NSC significantly more frequently than did the women; there were no cognitions that the women experienced more frequently than the men. A comparison to the results of studies of sexual cognitions among neurotypical individuals suggests that autistic individuals experience sexual cognitions in much the same way as their peers. However, sexual cognitions occur slightly less frequently and are somewhat less diverse. Nonetheless, the way in which they are experienced, and the content of the most frequent cognitions (mainly PSC about intimacy) may be indicative of sexual well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how cultural differences, gender role priming, partner's sexual preferences, and women's experienced sexual pleasure influence women's likelihood of consenting to their least favorite sexual practices, including oral sex, anal sex, and having sex when not in the mood. We compared predictors of sexual consent of cisgender heterosexual Chinese and American women as well as how traditional versus egalitarian gender role priming influenced sexual consent. 412 participants completed an online survey. The results revealed that women were more likely to consent to than enjoy the sexual practices examined. Women's experienced sexual pleasure and their partner's sexual preferences were positively correlated with women's sexual consent. More specifically, women's sexual consent was more influenced by partner's sexual preferences, and less influenced by experienced sexual pleasure when exposed to traditional marriage priming compared to egalitarian marriage priming. And Chinese women's sexual consent was more influenced by partner's sexual preferences and less influenced by experienced sexual pleasure compared to American women. Traditional gender role priming made women more likely to have sex when not in the mood compared to egalitarian gender role priming, and made Chinese women more likely and American women less likely to consent to anal sex, respectively, compared to egalitarian gender role priming. Overall, cultural and situational differences in gender role expectations significantly influenced the determinants of women's consent to their least favorite sexual practices, despite cross-cultural consistencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly in the absence of viral suppression, increase the risk of HIV transmission to uninfected partners. We determined factors associated with having an unsuppressed VL among HIV-positive individuals attending STI services in South Africa (SA). Methods: We analysed secondary cross-sectional data collected on HIV-positive individuals presenting with STI symptoms s at sentinel sites in Western Cape and Gauteng provinces between January–December 2019 in SA. We compared demographic characteristics of individuals on ART or not on ART, and a Poisson regression model to identify factors associated with having an unsuppressed VL (≥ 50 copies/ml) was used. Results: Among 93 HIV-positive individuals attending STI services with VL data, the median age was 32 years (IQR 27–37). Thirty-two (34.41%) individuals were on ART compared to 61 (65.59%) not on ART. Most of those on ART (56.25%) had an unsuppressed VL, while 86.89% of those not on ART had an unsuppressed VL. ART use was associated with a 33% lower prevalence of having unsuppressed VL. In a model adjusting for age, age at first sex and oral sex, none of the factors were significant. Among those on ART, individuals < 25 years were more likely to have an unsuppressed VL (aPRR = 1.94: 95% CI = 1.27–2.97) compared to those ≥ 25 years. Conclusion: ART use among HIV-positive individuals was low and VL suppression among those on ART was sub-optimal. Intensified ART initiation and adherence support to HIV-positive individuals seeking STI services could improve VL suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this systematic review was to shed light on the disease-trajectory of vulvodynia and identify potential risk factors which may affect such trajectory. Methods: We searched Pubmed to identify articles providing evidence on vulvodynia trajectory (i.e., remission, relapse or persistence rates) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. A narrative approach was used for data synthesis. Results: Four articles were included (total participants: 741 women with vulvodynia; 634 controls). At a 2-year follow-up, 50.6% of women reported remission, remission with relapse was observed in 39.7% and persistence throughout time occurred in 9.6%. A decrease in pain was observed in 71.1% of patients at a 7-year follow-up. Mean pain scores and depressive symptoms resulted lower at 2-year follow-up, whereas sexual function and satisfaction were increased. Factors associated with remission of vulvodynia were greater couple cohesion, decreased reporting of pain after intercourse and lower levels of worst pain. Risk factors for symptom persistence included marriage, more severe pain ratings, depression, pain with partner touch, interstitial cystitis, pain with oral sex, fibromyalgia, older age and anxiety. Recurrence was associated with: longer duration of pain, more severe ratings of the worst pain ever and pain described as provoked. Conclusions: Symptoms of vulvodynia seem to improve over time, regardless of treatment. This finding contains a key message for patients and their physicians, considering the deleterious consequences of vulvodynia on women's lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma hominis is a bacterium that colonizes the genital tract of some females and males, as well as their respiratory tracts. Although only two cases of deep neck infection have been reported, the associations between the onset and sexual intercourse have not been reported. A healthy 19-year-old female was diagnosed with a left peritonsillar abscess. The patient had sexual intercourse with a new partner, including oral sex, two days prior to symptom onset. It was not known whether the male partner had urethritis symptoms. M. hominis and Fusobacterium necrophorum were isolated from the abscess culture. The patient's condition improved after drainage, and sulbactam ampicillin was switched to oral clindamycin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Identifying factors related to persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is essential to reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers. Objective. To evaluate whether gingival/periodontal inflammation is associated with oral HPV infection. Methods. This cross-sectional study (n = 740) uses data from the follow-up visit of the San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study, which recruited overweight/obese adults aged 40–65 from Puerto Rico. Participants completed a dental examination and two interviews (face-to-face/ACASI) and provided oral rinse samples for HPV detection. Oral inflammation was assessed using two definitions: (1) the number of sites with bleeding on probing (BOP), and (2) the number of teeth with probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥ 4 mm and BOP. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between oral inflammation and oral HPV. Results. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of participants were female, and 68% had 50 years or older. Participants with HPV had a higher mean number of sites with BOP (15.5 vs. 10.1) and teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP (8.5 vs. 3.2) than participants without HPV (p < 0.05). After adjusting for sex, age, income, and the number of oral sex partners, the odds of having an oral HPV infection increased by 3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00–1.06) for any additional sites with BOP and 5% (95% CI: 1.02–1.09) for any other teeth with PPD ≥ 4 mm and BOP. Conclusions. We found that oral inflammation was associated with oral HPV infection among adults in Puerto Rico. Future studies need to further investigate the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently little research investigating men's lack of engagement in cunnilingus. This study explored reasons why some men do not engage in cunnilingus, as well as characteristics that distinguish those who engage from those who do not. A convenience sample of 935 straight and bisexual/pansexual male participants were asked to indicate whether they have (n = 833, Mage = 37.14, SDage = 14.12) or have not (n = 102, Mage = 21.63, SDage = 6.11) engaged in cunnilingus. Additionally, we interrogated participants' sexual history, precarious manhood belief, sexist beliefs, sexual narcissism, homophobia, and attitudes toward women's genitals. Our results indicated that engagement in cunnilingus is very common among men who have sex with women, with 89.09% of our sample having performed oral sex at least once and the overwhelming majority of engagers (94.47%) indicating enjoyment. However, we also identified that men who do not engage in cunnilingus demonstrated greater levels of homophobia, had more negative attitudes toward women's genitals, and were less likely to be sexually narcissistic than men who did engage in cunnilingus. Endorsement of precarious manhood belief, benevolent sexism, and hostile sexism did not influence engagement in cunnilingus. Results also indicated that the primary reason men do not engage in or enjoy cunnilingus—aside from lack of opportunity—was the perception that cunnilingus is "gross." Further, men who engaged in oral sex but did not enjoy it demonstrated greater endorsement of both precarious manhood belief and hostile sexism, as well as higher levels of homophobia and more negative attitudes toward women's genitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful sexual behaviour that occurs between siblings (HSB-S) is thought to be one of the most common forms of intrafamilial abuse. Despite an increase in academic papers, and acknowledgement of the prevalence of the problem, there is still a lack of specific assessment and intervention models. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview on the Assessment, Intervention and Moving On (AIM) HSB-S Practice Guidance. The framework draws on the literature and evidence-based models, as well as clinical practice illustrated by the four-case series summarised. Of the four-case series illustrated in the paper positive outcomes were observed. In addition, the intervention includes the practitioner guiding the family to write a structured narrative which supports them to restore family relationships and find a way of moving forward. This guidance will strengthen practitioner's skills and confidence in working with families impacted by HSB-S and provide hope for them that they can heal from this crisis. This paper provides a preview for the AIM HSB-S Practice Guidance illustrated by a case series. The framework will provide practitioners with a clear approach to assessment and intervention when working with families impacted by HSB-S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is an increase in number of Human Papillomavirus related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-related HNSCC) High risk HPV(HR-HPV) types can be cleared by an infected person, however, some can persist and develop HN cancer. There is a broad knowledge gap regarding HPV and related cancers. Main text: The aim of this review is to assess existing published knowledge on oral-genital HPV transmission, concordance of HPV genotypes and risk of oral or/and genital lesions among spouses/partners of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC, identify gaps in the current research and highlight areas that requires further inquiry. Method: Database like Pub med, Google Scholar, Scopus, Puplon, Wiley online library were used for search strategy. Published papers on transmission, concordance of HPV genotypes and genital lesions among spouses/partners of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC were included. Papers published from January1,2000 to October 31, 2022 were included. The published papers included are 8 Case reports, 2 cross-sectional studies, 3 Cohort studies and 2 systematic reviews. Results: A total of 2125 citations were retrieved from the five sources. 15papers were included. Case reports reported concurrent HPV-related oropharyngeal, tonsillar, unspecified HNSCC, laryngeal and nasopharyngeal carcinoma among couples. The two cross-sectional studies were done. Almost all the tumors taken from patients with HPV-related oropharyngeal carcinoma (HPV-related OPC) and their spouses were positive for identical HPV 16 type. The three cohort studies showed an increase risk of upper aero-digestive tract cancer among male spouses of females with cervical cancer. Two systematic reviews reviewed literature studies which evaluated concurrent cases of HPV-related Oropharyngeal cancers. Examination of these papers showed that the majority of the studies suggested that there is HPV transmission, concordance and risk of HNSCC cancer among spouses with HPV-related oral-genital cancer. No studies evaluated the risk of developing genital cancer in spouses of patients with HNSCC. Conclusion: The findings of this review highlighted big need of further research on oral-genital HPV infection among spouses of patients diagnosed with HPV-related HNSCC. Studies are needed to evaluate the risk of getting genital and upper aero-digestive tract HPV-related cancer among spouses with HPV-related HNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men, versus women, face more doubts about their heterosexuality based on a single same-gender sexual experience, a phenomenon known as the precarious sexuality effect. This phenomenon has thus far only been examined with sexually explicit same-gender acts (e.g., kissing, oral sex). Here, we conducted secondary data analyses of five large datasets of US adults (total N = 9770) to examine the replicability and robustness of the precarious sexuality effect across a range of same-gender acts varying in sexual explicitness. Using cross-classified hierarchical linear modeling, we replicated the precarious sexuality effect across all samples and demonstrated—in preregistered exploratory and confirmatory tests—that this effect was moderated by sexual explicitness. Consistent with our predictions, same-gender acts that were merely flirtatious (e.g., blowing a kiss) elicited stronger precarious sexuality (i.e., target gender) effects than same-gender acts that were explicitly sexual (e.g., oral sex), presumably because the former acts are more ambiguous and thereby allow more room for interpretation. Further, we found no consistent evidence that the precarious sexuality effect was moderated by perceiver characteristics including gender, sexual orientation, age, race, gender role beliefs, religiosity, or political orientation. Discussion considers possible explanations for the precarious sexuality effect and identifies important avenues for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This survey investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards HPV preventive measures among university students in Italy and their associated factors. Methods: The cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2022 and April 2023. Results: Only 41.7% knew about HPV infection and the main preventive measures. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression analysis showed that females, those aged 25–30 years, those who have had oral sex, those who had received information about HPV infection and preventive measures from physicians, and those who needed additional information about HPV infection and preventive measures were more knowledgeable. Only 39.1% have received at least one HPV vaccination dose, whereas 29.2% and 31.7% had not been vaccinated or did not remember. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression analysis identified that female students enrolled in the field of health sciences, those who did not report a prior history of a sexually transmitted infection, and those with a higher knowledge about HPV infection and preventive measures were more willing to receive the HPV vaccination. Conclusions: Despite some limitations, this was the first detailed survey on this topic conducted in the post-acute phase of COVID-19 among university students in Italy. The survey underlined the need to develop and to implement comprehensive educational programs and health interventions among students, to enhance their knowledge and modify their attitudes and improve the HPV vaccine uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to conduct a mixed-methods SR of the literature investigating the experiences (knowledge, attitudes, practices, and effects of use) concerning dental dam and cling film use. The SR methodology was informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-analysis framework, the Cochrane Handbook for SR of Interventions, the Joanna Briggs Institute guideline for conducting mixed-methods SRs, and the PICO (population, intervention (or exposure), comparison, and outcome) framework. Using a set of inclusion criteria, relevant studies in the literature were obtained for the review from 11 electronic databases, Teesside University Library, websites of multilateral health organisations, and reference lists of eligible literature. The included literature was appraised for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool version 2018 and the AAOCDS Tool. Only those studies in the literature with sufficient quality were finally included for data extraction (using an adapted version of the JBI Quality Assessment and Review Instruments) and synthesis. Best evidence synthesis was performed for the quantitative data, while meta-aggregation was performed for the qualitative data. The synthesised data were then configured using the segregated approach. A total of 529 studies from the literature were obtained from the searched databases, while only four were obtained from the other sources. After de-duplication, screening, and quality appraisal, a total of 17 studies were found eligible and included in this review. Sixteen studies were non-grey literature while, one was grey literature, and only a few reported a finding on cling film and heterosexual populations. A total of 5516 adolescents and adults were investigated in the analysed literature. Overall, the reported knowledge of dental dams was generally poor, while no study reported knowledge of cling film. The attitudes towards dental dams/cling film were complex and predominantly negative, with very few participants using dental dams/cling film for oral sex. No study reported any finding on the effect(s) of dental dam/cling film use. In conclusion, there is a need for robust and strategic public health interventions for sexual health and safer oral sex practices.

Background: Cervical lesions, induced by high-risk oncogenic human papillomavirus (HRHPV), in the context of HIV remains a global health challenge. We determined the effect of HR-HPV on the development of cervical lesions in women with and without HIV infection. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 257 women living in Cameroon. HIV serology, HR-HPV genotyping and cervico-vaginal smear (CVS) were performed for all participants; among those declared HIV positive, plasma HIV viral load and CD4 count were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using Graph Pad version 6.0; p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the participants in our study was 37±6.5 years. According to HIV serology, 184 (71.59%) were HIV-positive versus 73 (28.40%) HIV-negative. Among the HIV-positive women, the median CD4 count was 438 [IQR: 317-597] cells/mm3 and the median viremia was <40 [IQR: <40 -2318] copies/mL. After successful genotyping, the prevalence of HR-HPV was 36.32% (73/201), with a significantly higher proportion in HIVinfected individuals (41.98% (55/131) versus 25.71% (18/70); p=0.02; OR=2.1). The overall rate of cervical lesions was 23.34% (60/257), with a non-significantly higher proportion in HIV-infected participants (25.00% (46/184) versus 19.17% (14/73); p=0.31). Relevantly, the presence of HR-HPV was significantly associated with cervical lesions (p<0.0001; OR=5.07), with a higher odds of cervical lesion in HIV-positive individuals (p<0.0001 and OR=5.67) compared to HIV-negative individuals (p=0.03 and OR=3.83). Conclusion: Although oncogenic HPV appears to be an independent factor in the development of cervical lesions, this study reveals higher odds of cervical lesions among HIV/HPV coinfection than in HPV infection alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Christianity has been an important social institution in governing sexual behaviour. However, like many post-industrial nations, Canada's attachment to Christianity has been in decline since the 1960s. The proportion of the population affiliated with Christian churches has diminished, and the relationship between church and state has loosened. In addition, more variation has emerged within Christian religious organizations relating to sexual morality, creating greater possibilities for the acceptance of more expansive sexualities in some denominations. While scholars have long found that religious affiliation and religiosity are important determinants of sexual morality, sociological approaches to sexuality would suggest that the shifting social contexts of the past 60 years in Canada might loosen constraints on sexual behaviour, perhaps even among those who retain ties to Christian churches. To assess the relationship between Christian religious affiliation and self-reports of sexual activity, we analyze data from an original survey of sexual behaviour (N = 2,126). The authors focus on two sexual activities that have been deemed immoral in some Christian teachings: masturbation and performing oral sex on a partner. They use ordinal logistic regression to compare the recency of participation in these sexual behaviours among those with several types of Christian affiliation, comparing each group with those who have no affiliation. They find that Catholics and mainline Protestants—the largest religious communities in Canada—do not significantly differ from those with no religious affiliation in how recently they engaged in these behaviours. However, the authors find that those with affiliations to Evangelical Christian religions are significantly less likely to report that they engaged in these behaviours recently. They argue that, in the current cultural context of dechristianization, some Christian communities engage in sexual activity in measurably different ways than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anatomy and physiology of the female orgasm are often neglected. The female orgasm is a normal psychophysiological function to all women, and some even can achieve ejaculation as part of the normal physiological response at the height of sexual arousal. The complexity of female sexuality requires a deep understanding of genital anatomy. The clitoris is the principal organ for female pleasure. The vaginal stimulation of the anterior vaginal wall led women to orgasm due to the stimulation of the clitourethrovaginal complex and not due to stimulation of a particular organ called the G spot in the anterior distal vaginal wall. Female ejaculation follows orgasm. It consists of the orgasmic expulsion of a smaller quantity of whitish fluid produced by the female prostate. Squirting can be differentiated from female ejaculation because it is the orgasmic transurethral expulsion of a substantial amount of diluted urine during sexual activity, and it is not considered pathological. The female orgasm is influenced by many aspects such as communication, emotional intimacy, long-standing relationship, adequate body image and self–esteem, proper touching and knowledge of the female body, regular masturbation, male sexual performance, male and female fertility, chronic pain, and capacity to engage in new sexual acts. Stronger orgasms could be achieved when clitoral stimulation, anterior vaginal wall stimulation, and oral sex is involved in the same sexual act. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal cancer screening is being explored in research studies, but strategies to identify an appropriate population are not established. The authors evaluated whether a screening population could be enriched for participants with oncogenic HPV biomarkers using risk factors for oral HPV. Methods: Participants were enrolled at Johns Hopkins Hospitals and Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine. Eligible participants were either men aged 30 years or older who had two or more lifetime oral sex partners and a personal history of anogenital dysplasia/cancer or partners of patients who had HPV‐related cancer. Oral rinse and serum samples were tested for oncogenic HPV DNA, RNA, and E6 or E7 antibodies, respectively. Participants with any biomarker were considered at‐risk. Results: Of 1108 individuals, 7.3% had any oncogenic oral HPV DNA, and 22.9% had serum antibodies for oncogenic HPV E6 or E7. Seventeen participants (1.5%) had both oral and blood biomarkers. HPV type 16 (HPV16) biomarkers were rarer, detected in 3.7% of participants, including 20 with oral HPV16 DNA and 22 with HPV16 E6 serum antibodies (n = 1 had both). In adjusted analysis, living with HIV (adjusted odds ratio, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.60–4.40) and older age (66–86 vs. 24–45 years; adjusted odds ratio, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.07–2.70) were significant predictors of being at risk. Compared with the general population, the prevalence of oral HPV16 (1.8% vs. 0.9%), any oncogenic oral HPV DNA (7.3% vs. 3.5%), and HPV16 E6 antibodies (2.2% vs. 0.3%) was significantly elevated. Conclusions: Enrichment by the eligibility criteria successfully identified a population with higher biomarker prevalence, including HPV16 biomarkers, that may be considered for screening trials. Most in this group are still expected to have a low risk of oropharyngeal cancer. Enrichment by eligibility criteria for the MOUTH study successfully identified a subset of individuals who had a higher oncogenic human papillomavirus biomarker prevalence compared with the general population, that may be considered for screening trials. However, most among this subset were still at low risk of developing human papillomavirus‐related or oropharyngeal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study conducted a survey of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Maanshan City of Anhui Province to assess the risk behaviors related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 2016 to June 2019. The MSM were recruited by a peer-driven sampling method. A face-to-face interview with anonymous questionnaire was used for data collection. The information collected by the survey was summarized and epidemiology described the basic characteristics of MSM, and then the related factors were statistically analyzed. Results: A total of 934 MSM were recruited with a average age was 30.5 (SD = 8.90) years old, including 816 (87.4%) HIV negative participants and 118 (12.6%) HIV positive ones. This study showed that freelancer (OR = 4.02, 95% CI: 1.96–8.23), scope of sexual partners distribution (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.36–2.33), number of male sexual partners (OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.47–3.02), role of anal sex with men was receptive (OR = 2.54, 95% CI: 1.25–5.13) and versatile (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.31–4.19) and non-steady sex partners (OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.56–2.93) were risk factors for HIV infection, while monthly income (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.57–0.82), education level (OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.66–0.95), frequency of condom use (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.35–0.81) and number of oral sex partners (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24–0.51) in the past 6 months were protective factors for HIV infection. Conclusion: Risk behaviors were common in MSM, and urgent need for targeted and comprehensive interventions to reduce risky sexual behaviour and to prevent HIV infection in MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to describe the natural history of and identify the risk factors associated with oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in an Australian Indigenous cohort. A longitudinal cohort study design, with baseline (2018), 12-month, and 24-month data obtained from Indigenous Australians aged 18+ years in South Australia, was performed. Face-to-face interviews were conducted, and saliva samples for HPV testing were collected at each time point. Basic descriptive analyses were conducted to calculate prevalence, incidence, persistence, clearance, and incidence proportions of any HPV infection. Multivariable logistic regression analyses with adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) were conducted to identify risk factors associated with oral HPV infection. Among 993 participants with valid saliva samples, 44 HPV types were identified. The prevalence of infection with any oral HPV infection was 51.3%, high-risk HPV was 11%, and types implicated in Heck's disease (HPV 13 or 32) was 37.4%. The incidence, persistence, and clearance of any and high-risk HPV infections were 30.7%, 11.8% and 33.3% vs. 9.3%, 2.8%, and 9%, respectively. Our findings indicate that the prevalence, incidence, and persistence of oral HPV infection in a large sample of Indigenous Australians were high, and clearance was low. Oral sex behaviours and recreational drug use were risk factors associated with incident high-risk HPV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Not long ago, the National AIDS Control Organization awakened the matter of men who have sex with men (MSM) and incorporated it as the most important group population. Targeted interventions (TI), as projected in the NACP-III, have made dauntless efforts to launch about, that this group demands an urgent and intensive attention, indicating a significant amount of departure from its previous polices. All above-mentioned reasons prompted us to undertake this study on evaluating the risk of MSM for sexually transmitted infections. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted and all the acquired data were entered using epi info version 3.5 software and along with proper statistical procedures. Results: In the current study, 156 participants were involved, of which 90% of respondents were male and the remaining were transgender. Majority of the participants in the present study were involved in MSM activity with both regular and nonregular partners (RP)/casual partners. In the present study, 85.3% of the study participants were involved in MSM activity with a regular partner in the last 6 months, which is similar to nonregular partners reflecting high-risk activity. Conclusion: This study offers compelling evidence that MSM is more vulnerable to HIV due to a variety of variables. According to the current studies, about 37% of MSM were married. This brings up additional issues, such as the fact that women often contract HIV, because they are partners of men who are members of the population groups that are most at risk for HIV infection, such as MSM, rather than due to their own sexual behavior.

The oral transmission of HPV and, consequently, the risk of oral cancer has increased in the last years. Oral sex has often been implicated among the risk factors for oral HPV infections, however, there is still no consensus on these topics, nor on the relationship between genital and oral HPV infections. The present study aimed to evaluate the coexistence of papilloma virus, at the levels of the oral and genital mucosa, in women with a histologically confirmed HPV lesions (and a positive HPV test) at the genital level and a negative HPV control group. We also evaluated how some risk factors, such as smoking, the number of partners, age, and sexual habits can influence the possible presence of the virus itself in the oropharynx of the same women. In total, 117 unvaccinated women aged between 18 and 52 were enrolled. We found that the prevalence of oral HPV infection was high among the women with concomitant genital HPV infection (22%) compared to the HPV-negative women (0%), and the estimated odds ratio was 17.36 (95% CI: 1.02, 297.04). In none of the women with oral HPV did we find any relevant clinical lesions. The potential risk factors for HPV infections in the oropharynx and genitals were analyzed based on questionnaire responses. A multivariate analysis showed that genital HPV infections were significantly associated with a number of sexual partners > 10 (OR 138.60, 95% CI: 6.04–3181.30, p < 0.001), but the data also referred to having between 3–5 or 6–10 partners as being significant, as were a high level of education (OR 6.24, 95% CI: 1.67–4.23.26 p = 0.003), a frequency of sexual intercourse >10 (OR 91.67 95% CI: 3.20–2623.52, p = 0.004), oral sex (OR 6.16, 95% CI: 1.22–31.19, p = 0.014), and >20 cigarettes/day (OR 6.09 95% CI: 1.21–30.61, p = 0.014). Furthermore, being "separate" and having multiple sexually transmitted diseases were also significantly associated with genital HPV infection. In contrast, oral HPV infections were significantly associated with women aged 36 to 50 years (OR 27.38, 95% CI: 4.37–171.37; p = 0.000202) and oral sex (OR 95.5, 95% CI: 5.13–1782.75, p = 0.001126).Additionally, being separate, being cohabitant, lifetime sexual partners of >10, 3–5 lifetime sexual partners, <20 years of age, >10 sexual intercourse per month, occasional and regular anal sex, >20 cigarettes per day, a history of sexually transmitted disease (herpes and multiple), and having a history of genital warts were significant. Screening and early diagnosis are considered to be practically unfeasible for this category of cancer, given the lack of visible lesions; the 9-valent HPV vaccine remains the only means that could help to successfully counter the growing incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to estimate six different sexual debut ages in heterosexual Norwegians in six birth cohorts of the general population in Norway. The results are based on a 2020 national web panel survey of 18–89-year-olds in Norway (n = 4160). There was a general decline in the median debut age from those aged 70+ to those 18–29 (born 1991–2002). Oral sex with a female partner has become increasingly common among men at an earlier age across generations. The same pattern was found in women as well with regard to oral sex with a male partner and receptive anal sex. There was a slight increase in median debut age in 18–29-year-olds for receptive vaginal sex (born 1991–2002). The median debut age for vaginal sex was fairly stable for generations of men and women born after 1950. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to conduct a mixed-methods SR of the literature investigating the experiences (knowledge, attitudes, practices, and effects of use) concerning dental dam and cling film use. The SR methodology was informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-analysis framework, the Cochrane Handbook for SR of Interventions, the Joanna Briggs Institute guideline for conducting mixed-methods SRs, and the PICO (population, intervention (or exposure), comparison, and outcome) framework. Using a set of inclusion criteria, relevant studies in the literature were obtained for the review from 11 electronic databases, Teesside University Library, websites of multilateral health organisations, and reference lists of eligible literature. The included literature was appraised for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool version 2018 and the AAOCDS Tool. Only those studies in the literature with sufficient quality were finally included for data extraction (using an adapted version of the JBI Quality Assessment and Review Instruments) and synthesis. Best evidence synthesis was performed for the quantitative data, while meta-aggregation was performed for the qualitative data. The synthesised data were then configured using the segregated approach. A total of 529 studies from the literature were obtained from the searched databases, while only four were obtained from the other sources. After de-duplication, screening, and quality appraisal, a total of 17 studies were found eligible and included in this review. Sixteen studies were non-grey literature while, one was grey literature, and only a few reported a finding on cling film and heterosexual populations. A total of 5516 adolescents and adults were investigated in the analysed literature. Overall, the reported knowledge of dental dams was generally poor, while no study reported knowledge of cling film. The attitudes towards dental dams/cling film were complex and predominantly negative, with very few participants using dental dams/cling film for oral sex. No study reported any finding on the effect(s) of dental dam/cling film use. In conclusion, there is a need for robust and strategic public health interventions for sexual health and safer oral sex practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a confidential U.S. nationally representative survey of 2,525 adults (1300 women, 1225 men), we examined participants' event-level sexual behaviors, predictors of pleasure and orgasm, and perceived actual and ideal duration of sex, by gender and age. Event-level kissing, cuddling, vaginal intercourse, and oral sex were prevalent. Sexual choking was more prevalent among adults under 40. While women and men reported a similar actual duration of sex, men reported a longer ideal duration. Participants with same-sex partners reported a longer ideal duration than those with other-sex partners. Finally, findings show that gendered sexual inequities related to pleasure and orgasm persist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Sexting" (electronic transmission of sexual pictures/messages) among early adolescents is associated with early sexual activity, a marker of increased sexual risk. The current study is a secondary analysis that examined the longitudinal relationship between sexting and first-time sex among a sample of early adolescents deemed "at risk" due to behavioral or emotional problems. Adolescents participated in a longitudinal sexual risk prevention trial and completed questionnaires assessing demographics, unsupervised peer time, mental health, and participation in sexting, oral sex, and penetrative sex (vaginal/anal). Analyses included 343 early adolescents (M age = 12.89, 51% female, 77% racial/ethnic minority) with no history of oral or penetrative sex. Those who reported sexting at baseline were more likely to report first-time oral and/or penetrative sex by the 1-year follow-up. Exploratory analyses revealed that sexting predicted those who had engaged in both oral and penetrative sex. These findings highlight the need to address sexting in risk prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Squash (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) is an important fruit vegetable that can be long-term transport and storage. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are commercially used light sources applied to improve the producing of leaf vegetables in plant factory. However, the influences of LEDs on the plant growth and flower development of fruit vegetables remain unknown. In this study, five effective light quality treatments, including white light, a 10:8 ratio of blue (B) to red (R) light, a 10:4 mixture of blue/red light, red light, and blue light, were used for growing squash and inducing female flowers to maximize production. Our results show that varying light quality influence morphological traits and flower appearance. Both blue and red light improved the development of first and second internodes and induced larger leaves and petiole lengths, whereas 10:4 mixture caused shorter plant heights and decreased internode and petiole lengths. Although 10:8 mixture treatment reduced chlorophyll content, this spectral regime increased leaf number and influenced flower sex development, inducing more female flowers and more fruits. Light quality manipulation thus beneficially influences the growth and flower sex proportion in squash plants. Squash plants under 10:8 mixture treatment exhibited increase in yield, and can be used as a supplementary light treatment in plant factory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine whether sexual sadism manifests itself differently between sadistic sexual murderers and determine whether these differences are influenced by offender, victim, and crime characteristics, as well as by situational constraints. The sample used in this study consists of 285 cases of sadistic sexual homicides committed in France or Canada. Latent class analysis was used to identify heterogeneity in sadistic behaviors while external validity analysis was used to confirm the model. The results showed that sexual sadism may be manifested according to four distinct patterns in sadistic sexual homicides: Anal/oral sex, inanimate object insertion, collector, and torture/mutilation. These different types are influenced by offender, victim and crime characteristics while it is not the case of situational constraints. This study presents both theoretical and practical implications in terms of criminal investigation and clinical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pubic hair grooming (hair removal) has been linked to body image and sexual behaviour and, given the impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on access to sexual partners and beauty salons, we explored these associations. Data derive from a cross-sectional online survey. Participants were aged 18 years or over and in Australia. All genders were included. We explored factors associated with changes to hair removal using logistic regression and analysed free-text responses using content analysis. Of 256 participants, 89 (34.8%) had changed their grooming practices. Multivariable analysis found that female participants had 4.5 times increased odds of changed grooming (95%CI 1.8, 11.0; p = 0.001) compared with males. Individuals who reported 'more' or 'less' oral sex compared with the previous year were more likely to report increased odds of changed grooming (AOR 3.2; 95%CI: 1.4, 7.7; p = 0.009 and AOR: 3.3; 95%CI:1.6, 6.7; p = 0.001, respectively). Most who changed their grooming practices said it had reduced, attributing this to lack of partners, inability to access beauticians, and the mental health effects of the pandemic. For most, this change had no impact on sexual behaviour or body image; however, some spoke of reduced sexual desire and willingness to receive oral sex. Partner expectations influenced whether reduced grooming had negative consequences, and women were more affected than men, highlighting a gendered impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]