Carotenoid pigmentation in birds’ plumage is considered an honest indicator of phenotypic quality, and thus a target of sexual selection. But carotenoids also fulfill essential physiological functions, and therefore, carotenoids should only appear in plumage if they are in excess of those needed physiologically. We explored the presence of carotenoid-based plumage coloration in columbids and it...

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection is common in our setting and early treatment can prevent complications. The aim of this study was to report on patients diagnosed with C trachomatis genital infection in a sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, observational study of patients diagnosed with C. ...

OBJECTIVE To describe the social, intimate and sexual relationships of Dutch adolescents with cerebral palsy compared with their able-bodied age mates. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SUBJECTS A total of 103 adolescents with cerebral palsy without severe learning problems aged 16-20 years. METHODS We used a structured interview and questionnaires to assess subject characteristics such as ag...

A classic example of a sexually selected trait, the deep fork tail of the barn swallow Hirundo rustica is now claimed to have evolved and be maintained mainly via aerodynamic advantage rather than sexually selected advantage. However, this aerodynamic advantage hypothesis does not clarify which flight habits select for/against deep fork tails, causing diversity of tail fork depth in hirundines....

INTRODUCTION The development of new surgical techniques and medical devices, like therapeutical multimodal approaches has allowed for better outcomes on patients with rectal cancer (RCa). Owing to that, an increased awareness and investment towards better outcomes regarding patients' sexual and urinary function has been recently observed. AIM Evaluate and characterize the sexual dysfunction o...

Cervical cancer is a serious public health problem in developing countries. We investigated possible risk factors for cervical cancer in rural areas of Wuhan China using a matched case-control study with 33 women diagnosed with cervical cancer and 132 healthy women selected from the same area as matched controls. A questionnaire, which included questions about general demography conditions, env...

Background: Certain behaviors put people at high risk of premature death, disability or chronic diseases. The most common of such behaviors are smoking, bad eating habits, low physical activity, drug abusing and alcohol consumption, violent and injury and finally sexual high risk behavior. These behaviors are established during youth and extend to the adulthood. The aim of this study was to det...

BACKGROUND The pursuit of sexual pleasure is a key motivating factor in sexual activity. Many things can stand in the way of sexual orgasms and enjoyment, particularly among women. These are essential issues of sexual well-being and gender equality. OBJECTIVE This study presents long-term trends and determinants of female orgasms in Finland. The aim is to analyze the roles of factors such as ...