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Many 'hard-wired', innate animal behaviors are related to reproduction. So what happens when reproductive systems evolve? New research in nematodes has identified principles underlying the co-evolution of reproductive strategy and sexual behavior, revealing some surprises and raising intriguing new questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is pivotal in the pathogenesis and progression of the most challenging diseases and even cancer. Nanomedicine‐based strategy can be referred as a distinct solution to this complicated clinical obstacle by proposing an elaborated combination of effective therapeutic performances on inflammation and cancer. Herein, 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl doped polydopamine nanoparticles, termed as TPDA NPs, with the significantly improved reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RO/NSs) scavenging performance and enhanced photothermal efficiency are designed and synthesized by constructing donor‐acceptor pairs, for prostate diseases treatment including anti‐inflammation and anti‐tumor. Benefiting from mimicking multi‐natural enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and glutathione peroxidase, TPDA NPs can inhibit the NF‐κB signaling pathways by downregulating the CD36 expression for the treatment of oxidative stress‐induced prostatitis. Especially, TPDA NPs can improve the prostatitis‐associated impairment of sexual behavior. By virtue of the enhanced photothermal‐conversion efficiency, TPDA NPs ablate prostate cancer and simultaneously decrease inflammatory reaction. Therefore, this work provides a "three birds with one shot" paradigm to utilize rationally designed TPDA NPs for efficient management of prostate diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: An increasing number of countries are currently implementing or scaling-up HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care. With the introduction of PrEP, there was apprehension that condom use would decline and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) would increase. To inform sexual health counselling and STI screening programmes, we aimed to study sexual behaviour and STI incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who use long-term daily or event-driven PrEP. Methods and findings: The Amsterdam PrEP demonstration project (AMPrEP) was a prospective, closed cohort study, providing oral daily PrEP and event-driven PrEP to MSM and transgender women from 2015 to 2020. Participants could choose their PrEP regimen and could switch at each three-monthly visit. STI testing occurred at and, upon request, in-between 3-monthly study visits. We assessed changes in numbers of sex partners and condomless anal sex (CAS) acts with casual partners over time using negative binomial regression, adjusted for age. We assessed HIV incidence and changes in incidence rates (IRs) of any STI (i.e., chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or infectious syphilis) and individual STIs over time using Poisson regression, adjusted for age and testing frequency. A total of 367 participants (365 MSM) commenced PrEP and were followed for a median 3.9 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 3.4–4.0). Median age was 40 years (IQR = 32–48), 315 participants (85.8%) self-declared ethnicity as white and 280 (76.3%) had a university or university of applied sciences degree. Overall median number of sex partners (past 3 months) was 13 (IQR = 6–26) and decreased per additional year on PrEP (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] = 0.86/year, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.83–0.88). Overall median number of CAS acts with casual partners (past 3 months) was 10 (IQR = 3–20.5) and also decreased (aRR = 0.92/year, 95% CI = 0.88–0.97). We diagnosed any STI in 1,092 consultations during 1,258 person years, resulting in an IR of 87/100 person years (95% CI = 82–92). IRs of any STI did not increase over time for daily PrEP or event-driven PrEP users. Two daily PrEP users, and no event-driven PrEP users, were diagnosed with HIV during their first year on PrEP. Study limitations include censoring follow-up due to COVID-19 measures and an underrepresentation of younger, non-white, practically educated, and transgender individuals. Conclusions: In this prospective cohort with a comparatively long follow-up period of 4 years, we observed very low HIV incidence and decreases in the numbers of casual sex partners and CAS acts over time. Although the STI incidence was high, it did not increase over time. Trial registration: The study was registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NL5413) https://www.onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en/trial/22706 Mark A. M. van den Elshout, Eline S. Wijstma and colleagues assess sexual behaviour and incidence of sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men using long-term daily and event-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) over a four-year period. Author summary: Why was this study done?: Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is medication that almost 100% effectively prevents HIV when taken as prescribed: daily or before and after sex. Information on how people use PrEP, their sexual behaviour, and how often they acquire sexually transmitted infections (STI), can be used to tailor PrEP care to the needs of PrEP users. Since people can benefit from PrEP for several years (i.e., for as long as they are vulnerable to HIV), it is important to study the outcomes of PrEP use over longer periods of time. What did the researchers do and find?: Between 2015 and 2020, 365 men who have sex with men and 2 transgender women who were at risk for HIV in the Netherlands were provided oral PrEP and followed up every 3 months. We examined how participants use PrEP (daily or before and after sex), participants' sexual behaviour, and how often they tested positive for STIs or HIV, and whether these outcomes changed over 4 years of PrEP use. Over 4 years, most participants used PrEP correctly, and only 2 acquired HIV. The numbers of sex partners and anal sex acts without a condom with casual partners decreased over time, and STIs occurred frequently, but did not increase over time. What do these findings mean?: Our findings indicate that PrEP effectively prevents HIV over longer time periods and support structural implementation of PrEP with easy access. Our findings support regular counselling and STI testing as part of PrEP care. Young, non-white, practically educated, and transgender individuals were underrepresented in the study population; this should be considered when applying these findings to broader populations of PrEP users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with premature ejaculation (PE) are often concerned and distressed about their sexual performance. Hence, they may be more willing to exploit their refractory period to employ sexual coping strategies in order to improve their unsatisfactory sexual intercourse compared with patients without PE. Aim: The study sought to verify the sexual coping strategies of patients with PE in the daily sexual activities. Methods: We included both patients with PE and individuals without PE and analyzed their sexual behaviors and attitudes by means of detailed interviews and questionnaires. Outcomes: The main outcomes were perceived intravaginal ejaculatory latency time recording, Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool score, and sexual frequency, attitudes, and behavior log. Results: A total of 182 young patients with PE (age 31.2 ± 6.2 years) and 92 individuals without PE (age 30.7 ± 5.1 years) were included in the study. A total of 53.3% of patients with PE vs 17.4% of individuals without PE reported engaging in multiple sexual intercourse sessions within a single day in the past 4 weeks. PE patients who engaged in multiple intercourse sessions displayed better performance during the second attempt but performed poorly compared with individuals without PE. Scores for the first attempt in PE vs second attempt in individuals with PE vs without PE were the following: intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, 2.4 ± 1.6 vs 4.8 ± 5.7 vs 9.9 ± 9.4 (P <.001); Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool, 14.9 ± 3.1 vs 12.7 ± 4.8 vs 5.2 ± 2.5 (P <.001); satisfaction, 2.9 ± 1.0 vs 3.1 ± 0.8 vs 3.7 ± 1.4 (P <.001). A total of 57.1% of patients held a negative attitude toward precoital masturbation, for reasons such as a reduced sexual desire (21.2%), the belief that masturbation is harmful (17.6%), concerns about erectile function (15.7%), fatigue (9.8%), and other mixed reasons (35.3%). Clinical Implications: Engaging in multiple intercourse sessions within a day is more common among the young PE population, and using precoital masturbation as a coping strategy is not universally applicable among patients with PE. Strengths and Limitations: This is the first study to explore symptom-coping strategies in patients with PE compared with individuals without PE. However, the conclusions cannot be generalized to the entire male population. Conclusion: Patients with PE, compared with individuals without PE, are more inclined to engage in multiple sexual intercourse sessions within a single sexual session, likely in an attempt to compensate for their first unsatisfactory sexual encounter. Moreover, the majority of patients with PE here studied hold a negative attitude toward using precoital masturbation as a coping strategy for symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across diverse insect taxa, the behavior and physiology of females dramatically changes after mating—processes largely triggered by the transfer of seminal proteins from their mates. In the vinegar fly Drosophila melanogaster , the seminal protein sex peptide (SP) decreases the likelihood of female flies remating and causes additional behavioral and physiological changes that promote fertility including increasing egg production. Although SP is only found in the Drosophila genus, its receptor, sex peptide receptor (SPR), is the widely conserved myoinhibitory peptide (MIP) receptor. To test the functional role of SPR in mediating postmating responses in a non- Drosophila dipteran, we generated 2 independent Spr -knockout alleles in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. Although SPR is needed for postmating responses in Drosophila and the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera , Spr mutant Ae. aegypti show completely normal postmating decreases in remating propensity and increases in egg laying. In addition, injection of synthetic SP or accessory gland homogenate from D. melanogaster into virgin female mosquitoes did not elicit these postmating responses. Our results demonstrate that Spr is not required for these canonical postmating responses in Ae. aegypti , indicating that other, as yet unknown, signaling pathways are likely responsible for these behavioral switches in this disease vector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bats are known for their gregarious social behaviour, often congregating in caves and underground habitats, where they play a pivotal role in providing various ecosystem services. Studying bat behaviour remains an underexplored aspect of bat ecology and conservation despite its ecological importance.We explored the costs and impacts of overcrowding on bat social behaviour. This study examined variations in bat behavioural patterns between two distinct groups, aggregated and non‐aggregated male Rousettus amplexicaudatus, within the Monfort Bat Cave Sanctuary on Mindanao Island, Philippines.We found significant variations in the incident frequencies of various bat behavioural activities, particularly aggression and movement, between these two groups. The increase in aggregation was closely related to negative social behaviour among bats.In contrast, sexual behaviour was significantly related to the positive behaviour of individual bats and was headed in less crowded areas. The disparities in bat behaviour with an apparent decline in bat social behaviour because of overcrowding, with more aggressive behaviours emerging, align with the 'behavioural sink' hypothesis.Our study underscores the importance of considering habitat quality and resource availability in the management and conservation of bat colonies, as these factors can reduce the occurrence of aggressive and negative social behaviours in colonies with high population density by providing alternative habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the thirteenth century, the carole dance and its refrain songs simultaneously delighted the characters of vernacular French literature, troubled the morals of clerics, and engaged the analytical powers of music theorists. Revising existing scholarship that stresses the differences between these three accounts, this article demonstrates their interlinked uses of caroles to explore musical and sexual ethics. First, clerical authors employed caroles as microcosms of their wider attempts to control sexual and musical behaviour, as expressed both in marriage reforms and a broad range of music-theoretical, confessional, and homiletic texts. Second, the ethical associations that clerics established for caroles allowed vernacular literary authors like Jean Renart and Gerbert de Montreuil to use these dances to undercut and satirize clerical attempts at social control. Finally, these ethical discourses enabled music theorists to produce layered analyses of the social role of caroles , as in this article's closing rereading of Johannes de Grocheio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoactive sexual desire dysfunction (HSDD) is prevalent among women. This retrospective cohort study aimed to verify the results of the strategies used by Gynecologists and Obstetricians (Ob-gyn) residents in the management of female HSDD. For this, we conducted a data collection of patient medical records of women with HSDD from the Human Sexuality Studies outpatient clinic of the Human Reproduction Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of FMRP-USP, from 2005 to 2019. Among the 437 women included, 361 (82.6%) answered the question concerning the effect of the protocol to which they were submitted, whereas 234 (64.8%) reported improvements in sexual desire. The univariate model showed that patients without chronic pelvic pain were 19.0% less likely to report improvements in HSDD than those with chronic pelvic pain (p = 0.03). Patients without depression and without orgasmic dysfunction were, respectively 32% and 23% more likely to show improvements in their HSDD than those who had depression or orgasmic dysfunction (respectively p = 0.001, p = 0.008). However, the multivariate model did not identify any associations. The assistance regarding HSDD by the Ob-gyn resident in training to deal with female sexual complaints may be effective in improving sexual complaints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Vanuatu, the use of the terms such as ʻmen who have sex with menʼ (MSM) and ʻtransgenderʼ has increased over the past decade. This paper draws on twenty months ethnographic research in Port Vila, the country's capital, to analyse what happens on the ground when MSM and transgender categories are taken up to identify people or to narrate the self. The focus is on who uses these terms, in what ways they are experienced, and what is rendered visible (or not) by their use. This research departs from approaches framing ʻnon-heteronormativeʼ categories as related solely to gender and sexuality. It argues that MSM and transgender categories are used in various ways to refer not only to sexual practices and/or gender identity, but also to health risk behaviours, transactional sex and LGBT rights advocacy. The analysis offered suggests we view MSM and transgender categories as technologies that, depending on the interactional context, contribute to bureaucratic tasks or to maintaining or, on the contrary, changing established socio-political relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Youth who experience homelessness engage in behaviors that place them at high risk for disease and injury. Despite their health risk behaviors, these youth display psychological capital, positive attributes of hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism that motivate them to engage in health-promoting behaviors such as safer sex. However, this array of positive psychological attributes has not been studied in this vulnerable population. Objectives: The specific aim of this analysis was to determine whether factors of psychological capital mediated the relationship between background risk factors (e.g., race/ethnicity, educational attainment, reason for being homeless, sexual abuse history, and HIV status) and outcomes of condom intention, safer sex behaviors, and life satisfaction among youth who participated in a longitudinal intervention study. Methods: Using a Solomon four-group design, 602 youth were recruited from drop-in centers in two large cities (Columbus, Ohio, and Austin, Texas) to participate in a brief intervention that included outcomes of enhanced communication skills, goal setting, safer sex behaviors, drug refusal skills, and life satisfaction. Using an autoregressive, cross-lagged, longitudinal mediation model, we tested the direct and indirect effects of background factors, psychological capital, and intervention outcomes. Models were tested for the intervention group alone and the total sample. Results: There were no significant direct or indirect effects of background factors on intervention outcomes among the intervention group, and the model fit was poor. There were also no significant mediating paths via factors of psychological capital and poor model fit for the combined group. Discussion: Findings provide important information about intrinsic strengths of youth experiencing homelessness and psychological capital as a significant construct for understanding health behaviors among disadvantaged and underserved youth. The lack of significant mediation effects may have been due, in part, to the lack of a robust measure of psychological capital. Further study with various background factors and outcomes would contribute further to our understanding of how best to support this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing literature on "faking" orgasm focuses almost exclusively on women. Limited research exists among men, and none focuses on sexual minority (e.g., gay, bisexual, queer) men. Additionally, faking satisfaction (pretending to be sexually satisfied) remains an unknown concept. This study examined the occurrence, frequency, and correlates of faking orgasm and satisfaction in sexual minority men. Participants (N = 211, age = 18–53, 59% identified as gay) responded to an online survey assessing frequencies of faking orgasm and satisfaction as well as potential correlates of faking (age, relationship status, sexual frequency, orgasm frequency, internalized sexual stigma). Results showed that faking orgasm and faking satisfaction were highly prevalent among sexual minority men in this sample (83% had faked orgasm and 88% had faked satisfaction in the past two years). The frequency of faking was also high; 62% and 68% faked orgasm and satisfaction at least "sometimes." Higher internalized sexual stigma and lower orgasm frequency were associated with higher frequencies of faking orgasm and satisfaction. For faking orgasm, however, the relationship between internalized sexual stigma and faking only existed in gay men. The findings suggest that faking pleasure in sexual minority men is common and deserves more empirical attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research is increasingly linking mindfulness with better relationship outcomes. Less clear is whether these benefits extend to the sexual domain or whether the benefits of mindfulness are moderated by individual characteristics. Accordingly, the current report tested whether a brief online mindfulness intervention improved the cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of sexual experiences and whether effects varied by attachment anxiety and avoidance. Participants (N = 90) first completed a measure of attachment before reporting their sexual experiences each day for 7-days. Participants then listened to a mindfulness recording every day for 4 weeks. Finally, sexual experiences were reported on every day for 7 days again. Consistent with previous studies, no benefits of the mindfulness intervention were detected for more avoidant persons. Less consistent with expectation, however, the mindfulness intervention did not improve sexual outcomes in general, nor did it buffer other-focused avoidance-based sexual motivations or bolster sexual communal strength among more anxiously attached persons. However, the intervention did increase reports of positive sexuality among more anxious persons. Results are discussed in terms of the differential utility and limits of short mindfulness interventions looking to enhance sexual functioning in different populations and the potential mechanisms behind the presence and absence of effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder/Genito-Pelvic Dysesthesia (PGAD/GPD) is a highly distressing, yet poorly understood health concern characterized by persistent, unwanted, and unpleasant genital arousal sensations in the absence of psychological arousal and desire. PGAD/GPD symptoms can be reduced by engaging in frequent sexual behaviors, meaning that hypersexual behavior may be present as a feature of PGAD/GPD in some cases. Given this association and the current lack of measures designed for assessment of PGAD/GPD specifically, the present study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the Hypersexual Behavior Inventory (HBI-19) in a sample of women with PGAD/GPD symptoms. Specifically, the factor structure of the HBI-19 was explored via Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) as well as evaluation of model fit indices and reliability indices (Cronbach's alpha). EFA revealed a two-factor structure for the HBI-19 in the sample of women with PGAD/GPD symptoms, differing from the originally validated three-factor structure. RMSEA as well as TLI values suggested poor fit for all three models examined, including the two-factor model, while SRMR suggested good fit for the two-factor and three-factor model and suggested poor fit for the one-factor models. These findings suggest measurement non-invariance at the configural level and indicate that hypersexual behavior is best understood as a possible feature of PGAD/GPD as opposed to a core element of PGAD/GPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robots designed to elicit sexual arousal are coming. Sexual arousal can increase our willingness to engage in risky or unconventional sexual behaviors. However, researchers have yet to examine whether this effect extends to robots. Hence, this study provides the first empirical evidence that state sexual arousal can increase our willingness to engage erotically with robots. Based on previous research, we hypothesized that levels of sexual arousal would positively predict willingness to engage erotically with robots (Hypothesis 1); and that men would be more willing to engage erotically with robots than women (Hypothesis 2). A convenience sample of 321 adults (≥18y) completed a two-part online survey measuring their willingness to have sex with, love, engage in an intimate relationship with, and be friends with a robot and a human before and after viewing a sexually explicit video. The results partly support Hypotheses 1–2. They show that state sexual arousal increases willingness to have sex with a robot, and that men are more willing to have sex and engage in an intimate relationship with a robot than women, pre- and post-manipulation. These findings are important given the rise of sex robots and their potential influence on our intimate decisions and behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses articles in the issue on topics including asexual identity development, infidelity in relation to gender and personality traits and body image and satisfaction among gay and bisexual men.

In this scholarly review, the coauthors offer a review and discussion of the Betwixt the Sheets podcast, specifically, "Episode 15: Feminine Power: Divine to Demonic," which is about an exhibition by the same title. The authors explore the images and themes described in the podcast episode of the exhibition as it relates to narratives about feminine power and sexuality. The coauthors conclude the review with a brief overview of some professional implications as tied to the podcast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the various labels ascribed to males in the heterosexual discourse among female undergraduates in Nigeria. Insights from Community of Practice and Sexual Script Theory were used to demonstrate the use of situated linguistic choices to establish the differentials in male sexual behaviours. Data for the study were generated through participant observation and unstructured interviews with the aid of audiotape recordings and field notes. The study involves a representative sample of 22 female undergraduates who served as participants and research assistants. The findings reveal that situated language practices stimulate heterosexual discourses where female undergraduates creatively ascribe labels to the different males' sexual scripts. The labels include those related to male sexual performance, body size and size of sex organs, financial and marital status, familial and gatekeeping roles, and other routine sexual behaviours shown by men in sexual phases such as advances, arousal and intercourse. The scripts are also combined to re-enact the peculiar sexual narratives by the female students that show emerging sexual orientations. It is believed that the categorisation of such males' sexual behaviours in the University social contexts, would provide a basis for comparison with the sexual practices of other young adults' social groups across the globe. The paper discusses the various strands of sexual scripts shown by men in their heterosexual relationships with female undergraduates in a Nigerian University. The students ascribed labels based on the sexual performance, economic and marital status, and other routine behaviours that have an impact on the male sexual lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the UK a polarised and politicised discourse exists that attempts to pitch transgender identities in opposition to discourses on sexual orientations. This suggests that interventions assisting clients in their understanding of one, would be detrimental on exploration of the other i.e., to be affirming of gender identity is to cause conversion of sexuality and vice versa. This paper attempts to address some of the problems with this oppositional critique and solve some of the practical problems that the theorist and/or clinician may encounter while attempting to help their clients within the realm of psychological therapies. It does so through Deleuzian ontologies of difference, coupled with Bhaskarian critical realism. We aim to present a (re)consideration of the biopsychosocial model of Health. The recent publication of the International Classification of Diseases 11th Edition and its reclassification of trans aetiology as a Disorder of Sexual Development has presented a conceptual shift from gender dysphoria towards a gender incongruence model (WHO 2022). The aim of this article therefore is to develop practice by enhancing the conceptual toolbox of the clinician and therapist working with Gender Sex and Relationship Diversities (GSRD). Thereby enabling them to better approach a wider diversity of clients safely. This paper explores current conversations and ideas around the phenomenon of trans gender identities and minority orientations. It aims to present an ethical model which can inform the clinical practice of therapists and is underpinned by a critical realist interpretation of biological, psychological and sociological aspects of the mind and body. Overall, the paper acts as a call to action against conversion practices which aim to position trans experience and sexual attraction in opposition to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infidelity is a common problem in intimate relationships and is often a main contributor to relationship breakdowns. The aim of the current study was to extend the infidelity literature by differentiating between physical, emotional, and malevolent forms of infidelity, and exploring individual differences (i.e., gender and The Dark Tetrad of personality) that are associated with perpetration in these forms. The sample comprised 240 participants aged 18 to 67 years (Mage = 29.41 years, SD = 10.32; 76.8% women). People with higher psychopathy were more likely to engage in all forms of infidelity. High narcissism was predictive of emotional infidelity, and high sadism was predictive of malevolent infidelity. Interestingly, gender was only predictive of malevolent infidelity, with women more likely than men to perpetrate this form of infidelity. Exploratory analyses indicated that many of the associations between Dark Tetrad and infidelity were moderated by gender. Results of the current study may support researchers and therapists in differentiating between different types of infidelity (i.e., emotional, physical, malevolent). Further, these findings may contribute to the development of screening tools for therapists working who provide support for infidelity in intimate relationships. We perform of a novel exploration of the Dark Tetrad of personality and perpetration of physical, emotional, and malevolent infidelity. By demonstrating differential patterns of predictors for these forms, we provide support for a dimensional conceptualisation of infidelity. These findings may have important clinical implications for relationship researchers and counsellors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the field of sexuality in the United States, the use of hands-on work is controversial, although it is practiced internationally and has been researched in other countries. This mixed methods study explored effects of sexological bodywork within the context of Back to the BodyTM retreats for people who identify as women. Quantitative data were gathered from a survey of participants at past retreats (n = 48) and from pre and posttest surveys of participants before and after a retreat (n = 35). The survey of past participants found moderate to very positive changes across all constructs: 75% for arousal, sexual self-image, and sisterhood; 72% for body image; 71% for feelings about genitals and sexual assertiveness; and 66% for sexual satisfaction. Pre and posttest surveys revealed statistically significant increases in genital self-image, body image, sexual self-image, and sexual satisfaction; however, sexual assertiveness decreased. Qualitative analysis of open-ended survey responses and from 21 in-depth interviews revealed five major themes: feeling safe, connecting to self and others, feeling acceptance and permission, exploring arousal and pleasure, and transformative life changes. Sex and relationship therapists can use these findings to add to their own knowledge and to assist clients who may be interested in these modalities. Surveys and interviews were used to explore sexological bodywork at sensual retreats for women. Changes were reported for genital self-image, body image, sexual self-image, and sexual satisfaction. In interviews participants discussed feeling safe, connecting to self and others, feeling acceptance and permission, exploring arousal and pleasure, and transformative life changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous studies have established the importance of body image self-consciousness in predicting sexual distress and dissatisfaction in women. However, there is a dearth of information analyzing whether the same relation applies to men. Sexual perfectionism is a sexual correlate that has shown diverse links with sexual-related outcomes. The aim of the present study was to determine the degree to which certain sexuality-related factors, such as body image self consciousness and sexual perfectionism, and certain personality traits, namely grandiose and vulnerable narcissistic traits, may be associated with sexual discomfort in men. An online survey including self-report measures of sexual correlates variables and narcissistic personality traits was administered to a sample of 212 men, who provided the data used to investigate these associations. We performed a stepwise regression analysis, including the sexual-specific variables in the first step and vulnerable and grandiose narcissism in the second step. Sexual distress was linked to vulnerable narcissistic features and body image self-consciousness, according to our research. The clinical implications of our findings emphasize the need of evaluating body image concerns and taking personality characteristics into account when addressing sexual difficulties in men. Sexuality is affected by variables that are related to sex, such as the discomfort with one's body in sexual contexts, or the expectations toward the sexual performance of the partner. We investigate the role these variables play in men's sex life, and we also consider the impact of narcissistic personality traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to determine the predictors of women's sexual quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 536 married women participated in a cross-sectional study utilizing convenience online sampling. Data were collected using a battery of psychometric scales and analyzed using stepwise multivariable linear regression. There was no significant difference in the female sexual quality of life based on COVID-19 infectious status (p = 0.92). Having independent living conditions (β = 0.49), less psychological distress (β = –0.42), higher frequency of monthly sexual intercourse (β = 0.20), and less sexual distress (β = –0.14) were significant predictors of good sexual quality of life among females. The findings indicate that reducing psychological and sexual distress would likely improve women's sexual quality of life. In survey of 536 married women, no significant difference was found in the female sexual quality of life based on COVID-19 infectious status. Having independent living conditions, less psychological distress, higher frequency of monthly sexual intercourse, and less sexual distress were significant predictors of their good sexual quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes a mixed-methods approach to studying gendered attributions made in response to orgasm non-occurrence during sexual encounters with a partner. The study employed a concurrent nested mixed-methods design with primary data, which nested a quantitative analysis within a more extensive qualitative analysis (n = 390). Two qualitative questions regarding both the participant and their partner's attributed reasons for being unable to orgasm were coded and analyzed thematically. These responses were then quantitized into dichotomous variables used as predictors of sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and orgasm frequency in a multiple regression analysis. Results of the study indicated that medical/health and technique/setting attributions were the most frequent reasons participants and their partners did not orgasm. Furthermore, relational attributions were negatively associated with sexual and relationship satisfaction in women. Finally, not knowing to what cause orgasm non-occurrence should be attributed was also negatively associated with sexual and relationship satisfaction in women and orgasm frequency in both men and women. Implications for clinicians and further research are discussed. A mixed-methods approach to understanding the reasons why men and women indicated not being able to orgasm during sexual encounters with their partner. A qualitative analysis examined the common themes among responses. Quantitative analysis used the qualitative themes as predictors of sexual and relational outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to expand the empirical research on Black women's sexualities by exploring differences in heterosexual and queer Black women's sexual experiences including sexual pleasure, orgasms, masturbation, number of sex partners, and sexual desire through a Black queer feminist lens. This study used survey data from n = 295 Black cisgender women from phase one of the triphasic Big Sex Study. Results showed that Black queer women had more sexual partners and reported masturbating at earlier ages compared to heterosexual women. Black queer women also reported higher pleasure ratings in sexual activities, sexual intimacy, and sexual intercourse. Finally, there were differences in correlates of sexual desire between heterosexual and queer women; however, no factors were correlated with desire to engage in sexual intercourse for power and control for both groups of women. Implications for advancing sex positive research on sexually diverse Black women are included. Black women's sexology has often focused on sexual risks and heterosexual women. This study focuses on sex positive aspects including sexual pleasure, orgasms, and desire among Black heterosexual and queer women. Results showed that queer women were more likely to have higher pleasure rankings and had different correlates of desire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the core of sexual assault is a misunderstanding of sexual consent, and incorrect sexual interest perception is a misunderstanding of other people's sexual consent. Therefore, it is important to examine the mechanism of sexual interest perception to prevent instances of sexual assault. In order to explore the relationship and mechanism between self-perceived attractiveness and sexual interest perception, this study explored the relationship between self-perceived attractiveness and sexual interest perception from the perspectives of positive mating efficacy (mating confidence and self-esteem) and negative mating efficacy (perceived rejection experiences from the opposite sex, rejection sensitivity, and social anxiety). Four hundred and three heterosexual male subjects participated in this study (age in years: M = 26.4, SD = 6.1). The results showed that mating confidence and negative mating efficacy, but not self-esteem, mediated the relationship between self-perceived attractiveness and the sexual interest perception. The findings indicated that those with high self-perceived attractiveness overestimated sexual interest and those with low self-perceived attractiveness underestimated sexual interest. In general, men tend to overestimate the sexual interest from opposite-sex under the ambiguous condition. Especially, self-attractive men tend to overestimate women's sexual interest based on their high mating success. However, self-unattractive men tend to underestimate women's sexual interest based on their being rejected experiences or fear of being rejected in mating condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual satisfaction (SS) may be an important predictor of broader quality of life (QOL; e.g. life satisfaction, etc.). However, past studies have rarely examined moderating variables of this association. The current study examined gender differences in the association between QOL and satisfaction with both intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects of sex (e.g. one's physical pleasure vs. quality of emotional connection with a partner). 188 adults completed measures of SS and QOL. SS was moderately correlated with a range of QOL outcomes. Satisfaction with intrapersonal aspects of sex was generally a stronger predictor of QOL for men whereas satisfaction with interpersonal factors was sometimes more predictive of QOL in women. Implications regarding the broader impact of sexual well-being are discussed. Men and women may differ regarding how sexual satisfaction is associated with quality of life. Satisfaction regarding internal components of sex like physical pleasure may most important for men, while satisfaction with interpersonal components of sex like emotional connection may be most important to women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disease with highest incidence during the period of optimal reproductive health. This scoping review aimed to identify and summarize available data on sexual/reproductive health in males with MS (MwMS). Methods: This review was based on PRISMA extension for Scoping Review. PubMed database was searched for keyword "multiple sclerosis" alongside keywords "sexual health", "reproductive health", "family planning", "male fertility", "male infertility", "sexual dysfunction", and "erectile dysfunction", iteratively using the "AND" logical operator. Descriptive analysis was performed on the included articles. Results: Thirty-four studies were included, and four topics emerged: sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, fertility, and family planning. Sexual dysfunction is common in MwMS (35–72%), yet only a minority of MwMS discuss their sexual health with their treatment teams. Both MS disability and depression were associated with sexual dysfunction in MwMS, with erectile dysfunction and decreased libido as the most prevalent aspects of sexual dysfunction. Positively, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors appear effective for treating erectile dysfunction and improving sexual quality of life in MwMS. There may also be a relationship between MS and male infertility, though changes in sexual behavior may underlie this association. Finally, a prominent knowledge gap was observed for disease-modifying therapy use and family planning in MwMS. Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction is common, impacted by MS severity, and associates with decreased quality of life in MwMS. Communication barriers regarding sexual and reproductive health appear to exist between MwMS and providers, as do literature gaps related to MS therapeutics and sexual/reproductive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional treatment for individuals with histories of sexual offending has typically involved the facilitation of cognitive-behavioral interventions. Recent research related to this form of intervention has raised concerns about its effectiveness. Neurofeedback has been found to be a beneficial form of treatment for a range of clinical presentations internationally. Despite this, its use in the UK has thus far been limited. Based on the theoretical literature related to sexual offending, as well as findings that Neurofeedback can be beneficial for people who experience problems resulting from trauma, emotional instability, harmful behaviors toward others, those with developmental disorders, and for those who have struggled to engage with and/or benefit from talking therapies. Neurofeedback was carried out with an individual in a UK-based secure mental health setting. This individual, referred to as John in the current study, presented to services with an Autism Spectrum Condition, mild Intellectual Disability and a diagnosis of pedophilia, as well as a history of sexual offending against children and vulnerable adults. John had engaged in many treatment programs over many years with little evidence of significant benefit. Psychometric measures as well as qualitative feedback was used to evaluate any change experienced by John following Neurofeedback and the use of the Reliable Change Index revealed significant improvements in relation to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive type patterns of responding, child sexual arousal, sexual compulsivity, and sexual preoccupation. Whilst our findings are modest they do provide tentative support for the use of Neurofeedback for people with similar presenting difficulties to John and those in similar circumstances. Implications and recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiences of stigma in health care encounters among LGBTQ+ populations (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer and questioning) have long been a barrier to care. Marginalization and historically grounded fears of stigmatization have contributed to a reluctance to disclose sexual behavior and/or gender identity to health care providers. We reflect on how student nurses grappled with the ethics of patient disclosure while providing mobile outreach in Chicago for mpox (formerly monkeypox) from fall 2022 to spring 2023. Student nurses addressed how requiring disclosure of sexual behavior or sexual orientation may serve as a barrier to accessing preventive care, such as mpox vaccination. Accounts of stigma and criminalization experienced by LGBTQ+ people provide insight on challenges historically associated with disclosure in health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theories of discrimination typically select properties such as race, gender, sexuality, or ethnicity as being of special concern. These properties, which are customarily identified as genuine grounds of discrimination, are also at the forefront of constructionist efforts to understand reality as a product of social interactions. Theories of discrimination have so far neglected the important question of how understanding the nature of these properties impacts our theoretical views of the kind of phenomenon discrimination is. This article outlines some pitfalls of assuming away complexities regarding the ontology of the underlying properties, and systematically develops a constructionist account of discrimination, which I call Discrimination without Traits. I argue pursuing a constructionist view of grounds reveals discrimination to be not a discrete process involving a discriminator and a victim, but an ongoing process of (re)negotiating social reality that is fundamentally political. This uncovers neglected avenues for designing political remedies to discrimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed at investigating the effect of dietary supplementation of Phoenix dactylifera, an important component of aphrodisiac supplements, on sexual performance, oxido-inflammatory mediators and purinergic signaling system in hypertensive rats. Hypertension was induced via oral administration of 40 mg/kg L-NAME. Thereafter, the sexual performance of the experimental animals was determined and the hypertensive rats with impaired sexual activities were placed on P. dactylifera-supplemented diet for 21 days, and the effects of the treatment on the overall sexual behavior, antioxidant status, oxido-inflammatory biomarkers, and enzyme activity of the purinergic system were assessed. Hypertensive rats showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in sexual performance, elevated level of oxido-inflammatory mediators, and altered purinergic enzymes activity when compared with the control. However, sub-chronic feeding with P. dactylifera-supplemented diet improved sexual performance, significantly lowered oxido-inflammatory biomarkers, and enhanced the activity of purinergic enzymes in hypertensive rats. Findings presented in this study suggest that dietary inclusion of P. dactylifera could be useful in managing erectile dysfunction (ED) commonly observed in subjects with hypertension. Findings highlighted in this study thus provide the scientific basis supporting the folkloric use of P. dactylifera as a key ingredient in aphrodisiac supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cohabitation has become more common in communities that have experienced demographic transitions, including in Taiwan, and hence it has become a research interest. However, our understanding of cohabitation in Taiwan has been limited to indirect estimations and cross-sectional analysis due to the lack of appropriate data. These analyses can provide a quick overview of the prevalence of cohabitation at specific periods, but they cannot portray the risk of cohabitation over the life course. Using recent panel data from the Taiwan Youth Project, we estimate cohabitation risk among young adults in their mid-20s to early-30s. We also examine the determinants of cohabitation. Results show that being a woman, not employed, living in emerging regions, not having varying residential locations, ever having sex (especially at an earlier age), and being more open to premarital intimacy were associated with higher odds of cohabitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People living with HIV (PWH) have been shown to bear a higher burden of hepatitis B virus (HBV) due to shared routes and risk factors for transmission. Populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) are at an increased risk of both being infected with HBV and HIV, that places them at higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Using weighted and adjusted multilevel logistic regression, we characterized the prevalence and correlates of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among MSM living with HIV across 12 Indian cities from 2012 to 2013. Overall, the prevalence of HBsAg was 8% (range across cities: 0.5%–19%). Being between the ages of 25–34, and 35–44 increased the odds of having chronic HBV infection compared to MSM 24 years or younger. Daily or seasonal employment and being unemployed increased the odds of HBsAg prevalence compared to those with monthly or weekly wages. Sexual risk behaviours such as having had sex with both men and women in the prior 6 months and history of sex work increased the odds of having HBV. Ever having insertive sex with a man or hijra (assigned male at birth, currently identifies as female/nonbinary) was negatively associated with HBV. Despite the existence of efficacious vaccines, HBV continues to have high prevalence among PWHs. Programmes to increase early screening, vaccinations and HBV literacy are urgently needed. Integrating HBV and HIV programmes for MSM populations could be critical in addressing this dual burden and improving outcomes for both infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To summarize the evidence regarding the unmet care needs of women who have undergone breast cancer surgery and identify research gaps. Design: A scoping review. Data Sources: This review entailed a systematic search in EMBASE, Medline via PubMed, CINAHL Complete, APA PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Scopus (up until 30 July 2023). Review Methods: This review was guided by Arksey and O'Malley's Framework (2005) and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis‐Scoping Review extension (PRISMA‐ScR). Results: Twenty‐five studies that included 4914 participants were retrieved. Fourteen studies employed quantitative designs, eight used qualitative methods, two were mixed‐methods studies and one used a qualitative meta‐synthesis. Women who have undergone breast cancer surgery experience a wide range of complex and multifaceted unmet care needs. The informational/educational and psychological/emotional domains were the most frequently reported among the identified domains. Meanwhile, the sexual and spiritual/religious beliefs domains remained relatively underexplored. Furthermore, none of the assessment tools used in these studies captured the entirety of the possible domains of unmet care needs. Conclusion: Needs assessment should be integrated into the routine care of women who have undergone breast cancer surgery. Interventions should be developed to address the unmet informational/educational and psychological/emotional needs of women. Future studies should employ high‐quality mixed‐methods approaches to explore women's sexual and spiritual/religious concerns. Impact: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the unmet care needs of women who have undergone the breast cancer surgery. These findings will contribute to the development of tailored interventions. This review also informs future studies to explore distinct domains of unmet care needs. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To understand the factors associated with the practice of chemsex among MSM in Brazil, especially during the Mpox health crisis, and to design effective prevention and intervention strategies specifically for this population. Design: A cross‐sectional and analytical study using an electronic survey, conducted from September to December 2022, during the peak of the Mpox outbreak in Brazil. Sample: A total of 1452 MSM aged 18 and older. Measurements: Data were collected via the REDCap platform through a survey with 46 questions. These addressed demographic data, sexual affiliations, practices, experiences with Mpox, healthcare service usage, and stigma or fear related to Mpox. Results: The prevalence of chemsex was 19.42% (n = 282). Multivariate Poisson modeling indicated a high incidence of chemsex among those diagnosed with Mpox and those involved in high‐risk behaviors. The practice of chemsex was six times higher among those diagnosed with Mpox (95% CI: 4.73–9.10). MSM who engage in bugchasing had a prevalence twice that of the main outcome (95% CI: 1.31–3.16). Conclusion: There is a significant need for targeted interventions for MSM in Brazil, especially given the Mpox outbreak. This study highlights the strong relationships between chemsex, experiences with Mpox, and various sexual behaviors, underscoring the importance of effective public health initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies of sexting attempt to delineate its main characteristics, to define it and quantify its prominence and its effects. This article studies sexting within a specific ethnographic case. Based on an ethnographic case of a girl's nude picture being disseminated in a secondary school in the Netherlands, this paper argues that sexting is scripted through media and scientific reports, influencing the way it comes into being and is dealt with in practice. The script emphasizes the girls' responsibility in sending the picture, taking it to signal a lack of self-confidence, and emphasizes her guilt in its dissemination. On the other hand, it erases several elements, notably the different networks of friends that were tapped into by the actors, and the 'economy of pictures' that the picture was part of. Focusing extensively on the days immediately after the picture was spread, as well as on reflections on the event several months later, shows how the sexting script not only describes the phenomenon of sexting, but also prescribes how it is dealt with in practice, and, to a degree, how it produces sexting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the political potential that emerges when theorizations of the body-as-infrastructure are brought into conversation with theorizations of topological space. It argues that the infrastructural body provides an interface through which structural norms can be destabilized, and the interrelationships between the state, society, and self can be reimagined. These ideas are illustrated through an empirical exploration of drag queens in Singapore. Singapore is a socially conservative Asian city-state in which heteronormative values are passed down by the state, reproduced through the family, and then used to structure societal understandings of gender and sexuality. By interpreting Singapore's hegemonic state-society spaces in topological terms, drag queens reveal a modality of queerness that is not necessarily deviant, or apart-from, the country's non-queer public spaces, but is mutually constitutive of them instead. Through (infra)structuralization, the drag body reveals a potentiality that transcends the strictures of everyday life. Accordingly, the paper advances the politico-theoretical promise of 'Queer Asia'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Problematic pornography use (PPU) is a common manifestation of the newly introduced Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder diagnosis in the 11th edition of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Although cultural, gender‐ and sexual orientation‐related differences in sexual behaviors are well documented, there is a relative absence of data on PPU outside Western countries and among women as well as gender‐ and sexually‐diverse individuals. We addressed these gaps by (a) validating the long and short versions of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS and PPCS‐6, respectively) and the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS) and (b) measuring PPU risk across diverse populations. Methods: Using data from the pre‐registered International Sex Survey [n = 82 243; mean age (Mage) = 32.4 years, standard deviation = 12.5], a study across 42 countries from five continents, we evaluated the psychometric properties (i.e. factor structure, measurement invariance, and reliability) of the PPCS, PPCS‐6, and BPS and examined their associations with relevant correlates (e.g. treatment‐seeking). We also compared PPU risk among diverse groups (e.g. three genders). Results: The PPCS, PPCS‐6, and BPS demonstrated excellent psychometric properties [for example, comparative fit index = 0.985, Tucker–Lewis Index = 0.981, root mean square error of approximation = 0.060 (90% confidence interval = 0.059–0.060)] in the confirmatory factor analysis, with all PPCS' inter‐factor correlations positive and strong (rs = 0.72–0.96). A total of 3.2% of participants were at risk of experiencing PPU (PPU+) based on the PPCS, with significant country‐ and gender‐based differences (e.g. men reported the highest levels of PPU). No sexual orientation‐based differences were observed. Only 4–10% of individuals in the PPU+ group had ever sought treatment for PPU, while an additional 21–37% wanted to, but did not do so for specific reasons (e.g. unaffordability). Conclusions: This study validated three measures to assess the severity of problematic pornography use across languages, countries, genders, and sexual orientations in 26 languages: the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS, and PPCS‐6, respectively), and the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS). The problematic pornography use risk is estimated to be 3.2–16.6% of the population of 42 countries, and varies among different groups (e.g. genders) and based on the measure used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The primary risk of HIV transmission in China has shifted from injecting drug use (IDU) to sexual contact since 2006. We evaluated the prevalence trends of HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), syphilis, and sexual and drug use behaviors among drug users. Methods: People who use drugs participated in any of four rounds of cross-sectional surveys during 2010–2017 in Chongqing. Participants were tested for HIV, HCV, and syphilis. Questionnaire interviewing was conducted to collect behavioral information. Chi-square and trend tests were employed to assess the changes in diseases and behaviors over time. Results: A total of 8,171 people who inject drugs (PWID) and 5,495 non-injection drug users (NIDU) were included in the analyses. HIV prevalence among PWID in four rounds of the survey in 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, and 2016–17 was 11.5%, 9.7%, 6.5%, and 6.9%, and among NIDU, 2.4%, 1.4%, 2.1% and 2.6%, respectively. HCV prevalence among PWID was 83.5%, 85.2%, 67.1% and 79.7% (P < 0.001), and among NIDU, 22.2%, 10.8%, 13.4% and 14.8%, (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The declining HIV and HCV prevalence among PWID is coincident with declining risky drug use behaviors. Tailored disease prevention and interventions targeting PWID and NIDU are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kink practitioners are marginalized and experience adverse health and social outcomes, which are exacerbated by consent violations. This study aims to understand experiences of reporting consent violations within a kink context. Kink practitioners (N = 2,888) completed a survey focused on consent violations, reporting, and recommendations, with 767 (25.56%) of them reporting consent violations in the kink context. The type of consent violation (sexual assault or kink-related behaviors), disclosure, and reporting significantly differed based on gender, sexual orientation, and injury status, but not age. Additionally, recommended steps included avoidance of police and others in positions of power and increased accountability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sample of 819 female college students completed measures of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), adult sexual victimization (ASV), mistrust, trauma-related symptoms, and drinking problems. Using a serial indirect effects model, we hypothesized that CSA would be associated with ASV through the indirect effects of mistrust → trauma-related symptoms → drinking problems. The results indicated that this serial indirect effects model was significant. When the order of the first two indirect effects was reversed, the model was not significant. These results highlight the importance of examining potential factors involved in sexual revictimization in tandem rather than in isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this introductory essay, we lay some theoretical ground to the special issue on Queering Multilingualism. We outline what we mean by 'queering', and why it is necessary in relation to multilingualism. Ultimately, our argument is that a focus on gender and sexuality allows us to expand our understanding of the complexity of power relations in multilingual settings, encounters, and lived experiences. With the help of examples from the contributions to the special issue we not only illustrate how language classrooms and learners' interactions are constrained by cis-genderism and heteronormativity, but we also show how language teachers and learners can challenge gender and sexual normativities. Based on the narratives of multilingual speakers, we also argue for the importance of considering gender and sexuality in relation to other identity categories such as age, ethnicity, race, and social class. Theoretically, this requires bringing queer theoretical approaches into dialogue with intersectionality. We conclude with some reflections on the relationship between multilingualism and sexual desire, especially in contexts of conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cisgender and heterosexual norms permeate every level of language classrooms, from textbooks to classroom discourse to teachers' actions, constraining queer/trans learners' ability to be themselves. Yet queer/trans and non-queer/trans learners alike may challenge cisheteronormativity within the language classroom and create new possibilities. We investigate the possibilities of queer/trans learners' agency within these normative structures by bringing together three cases from larger separate projects, examining the context and actions of learners in each setting as they attempt to queer their classrooms to make them habitable. Drawing from Ahmed's queer phenomenology, we analyze the devices that orient students to classroom cisheteronormativity, actions that students and their accomplices may take to breach these norms, and the reactions to and potential of such breaches within the L2 classroom context. We find that orienting devices, including curricular representation, language use, and grading practices, convey implicit and explicit messaging that can limit expressions of gender and sexuality. Yet queer breaches, when not subject to straightening, can lead to new classroom possibilities for expression, playfulness, and identity validation. We conclude by considering the implications of this analysis for practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we explore how people in conflict-affected societies use language to navigate the affective constraints that political conflicts impose. Specifically, we consider the role of multilingualism in enabling sexual and romantic intimacy between Jewish and Palestinian Israelis in Israel/Palestine. Our data are drawn from a close examination of the speech of Fadi Daeem, one of the protagonists in the 2015 documentary Oriented. Building on studies of (in)securitization and everyday bordering, we show how the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Palestine serves to instantiate a regime of affective checkpoints, a space in which sexual and romantic relations between Jewish Israelis and Palestinians are discursively blocked. We describe how Fadi and his friends use strategic instances of code-switching between Arabic, Hebrew, and English to navigate this ideologically fraught terrain. Our primary goal is to demonstrate how multilingualism can be employed as a resource for managing affect and desire in a conflict-ridden context like Israel/Palestine. In doing so, we further highlight how the intimate domain of romantic desire is inevitably situated within a broader matrix of power and constraint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The body image-related problems can negatively affect women's lives in many ways. The study was aimed at investigating the effects of postpartum body image on sexual functions, and fatigue and depression levels of primiparous women who gave birth vaginally. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 133 women who presented to the obstetrics and gynecology clinics of a state hospital in Turkey between June 2021 and December 2021. At the end of the study, a moderate relationship was determined between the women's body image and their depression (r = 0.500; p < 0.001) and fatigue (r = 0.666; p < 0.001) levels, and a weak relationship between their body image and sexual functions (r = −0.372; p < 0.001). According to the backward regression model used in the study, the women's fatigue and education levels accounted for their body image by 45.7%. Body image is a very serious problem in the postpartum period. One of the leading variables affecting body image in the postpartum period is postpartum fatigue. Postpartum body image is closely related to postpartum depression and sexual functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual assault is a pervasive problem that has devastating consequences for college students. California's legislation stipulates that public colleges and universities must define sexual misconduct and sexual consent as well as provide ongoing sexual assault prevention education on campus. Despite these efforts, little is known about how well students understand consent or whether their knowledge differs by gender identity and sexual orientation. To address this gap, we collected data from 291 students attending a public university in Northern California and found that most (presumably well-informed) students had only cursory understandings of consent. We argue that colleges and universities need to do more to provide gender and sexual-orientation informed, creative, interactive and context-based approaches to consent education. Additionally, consent education should be tailored to the unique needs of specific subgroups, including cisgender heterosexual men and asexual students who had the lowest level of consent understanding in this study. Such an approach is needed to support college students to enjoy mutually respectful, fulfilling, and fun sexual and romantic relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practitioners who work with children and young people such as educators, psychologists, and social workers, are required to understand and respond to various sexual behaviours in children and young people. However, there is a dearth of training programmes dealing with sexual development. To reduce over- and under-reporting of risk, which can have serious adverse outcomes, it is essential to educate practitioners in understanding and responding appropriately to sexual behaviours. This study evaluated Traffic Lights® professional development training programme – a one-day programme offered across Queensland, Australia, with the goal of educating practitioners and promoting safe and respectful sexual health among children and young people. Thirty postgraduate psychology students working with/interested in working with children and young people received Traffic Lights® training, and accuracy of understanding and responding to sexual behaviours presented in scenarios was assessed pre- and post-training. Participant responses were scored using criteria developed by a local sexual health organisation's research specialists. Findings revealed no significant improvement in understanding and responding to sexual behaviours in children and young people. Implications of this study include recommendations for small-scale evaluations with sexual health experts and follow-up research, which is critical given the need for evidence-based practice in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used a person-centred approach to consider profiles of parent–child sex communication. We sought to determine whether profiles of sex communication were distinguishable from one another based on aspects of both the parent and the child. Participants included 596 US young people (51% female at birth; Mage = 14.55, SD = 1.70, 56% white), and their mother (n = 596; Mage = 41.23, SD = 8.18; 64% white) and father (n = 354; Mage = 43.44, SD = 8.56; 62% white) figures. Analyses suggested three profiles of parent–child sex communication with mothers and four with fathers. Patterns were similar across profiles, with variation being primarily the degree to which parents reported timing, frequency and quality of communication. Parents who more strongly endorsed proactive and reactive parenting, and who reported more frequent and open conversations with their children were warmer and had higher levels of self-efficacy. They also had children who were more sexually active, but who had healthier sexual outcomes. Discussion focuses on the importance of considering multiple aspects of parent–child sex communication and highlights the importance of continuing to empower parents to discuss sex and sexuality with their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]