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Bowling J, Wright S, Benson JK, McCabe S, Mennicke A, Willard J, Kissler N, Good H, Moody B, Stambaugh R, Cramer RJ. Disclosing and Reporting of Consent Violations Among Kink Practitioners in the United States. Violence Against Women 2024; 30:1453-1476. [PMID: 36541018 DOI: 10.1177/10778012221145299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessamyn Bowling
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Susan Wright
- National Coalition for Sexual Freedom, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J Kevin Benson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Sean McCabe
- Department of Psychological Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Annelise Mennicke
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Jessica Willard
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Neha Kissler
- Department of Psychological Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Haley Good
- Department of Psychological Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Robert J Cramer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
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Pavanello Decaro S, Pessina R, Biella M, Prunas A. Italian women who have sex with women: prevalence and co-occurrence of sexual practices. Sex Med 2024; 12:qfae017. [PMID: 38586250 PMCID: PMC10994778 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sexuality research on the sexual practices of women who have sex with women (WSW) has thus far mostly centered on risk factors and addressed a limited number of practices, with a focus on oral sex and insertive vaginal sex. Aim This study arises from the need to fill such a significant gap, which prevents researchers, clinicians, and policy makers from being adequately up-to-date on the sexual habits and tendencies of this population. Methods A multiple-choice questionnaire was completed by 723 WSW with a mean (SD) age of 29.14 (6.94) years. Outcomes The survey included closed questions on sexual practices, including genital and oral sex, but also nongenital sexual contact (petting and intercrural sex), anal sex, and kinky practices. Results The most common sexual practices were self-masturbation (99.03%), oral sex (performed or received, 98.20%), and insertive genital sex (performed or received, 89.07%). Half of our sample had tried kinky practices at least once in a lifetime (51.31%). Respondents tended to experiment sexually more with stable partners rather than with casual ones. Comparisons among practices in the lesbian and bisexual population are presented. Clinical Implications Providers should be aware that sexual orientations have their own specificities, including sexuality and practices, which should increase their knowledge and comfort in working with sexual minorities. Strengths and Limitations The novel topic of the study addresses the gap in sexuality research among WSW. Strengths include the sex-positive approach, the inclusion of an array of sexual practices, and the consideration of the specificities of the group. Limitations in the generalization of the results are the cross-sectional design and the explicit topic, which may have kept some persons from responding. Conclusion We propose the framing of sex as going beyond genital contact, and we invite clinicians and researchers who come into contact with WSW to be aware that sexual orientation can be associated with specificities regarding sexuality and sexual practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rodolfo Pessina
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, 20126, Italy
| | - Marco Biella
- Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Basel, Basel, 4001, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Prunas
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, 20126, Italy
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3
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Pearson A, Hodgetts S. "Comforting, Reassuring, and…Hot": A Qualitative Exploration of Engaging in Bondage, Discipline, Domination, Submission, Sadism and (Sado)masochism and Kink from the Perspective of Autistic Adults. Autism Adulthood 2024; 6:25-35. [PMID: 38435321 PMCID: PMC10902275 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2022.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Background There is a lack of research on autistic intimacy; however, a small body of research suggests that bondage, discipline, domination, submission, sadism and (sado)masochism (BDSM)/kink may be appealing to autistic people. We aimed at exploring how engagement in BDSM/kink related to autistic identity, using a phenomenological approach. Methods We recruited six autistic adults through purposive sampling on social media. All participants took part in a one-to-one spoken interview about their engagement in BDSM/kink and how it related to their sense of identity. Results We used interpretative phenomenological analysis to analyze the data and found three key themes. Theme 1, "Practicing safe 'sex'" highlighted how the clear communication and explicit focus on consent present in BDSM/kink facilitated a feeling of safety. Theme 2, "So many ways to touch and be touched" was focused on the sensory draw of BDSM/kink, and how it provided exciting ways to explore sensory joy (and sometimes revulsion). Theme 3, "Subverting (neuro)normativity" showed how autistic people can find pleasure in intimate practices that transgress normative expectations. Conclusion Our findings highlighted the importance of exploring the perceptions of autistic adults in relation to their own intimate practices. Autistic intimacy is an emerging area of research, with very little focus on lived experience. Although engagement in BDSM/kink may appear niche, our findings suggest that there are aspects which are inherently appealing to autistic people. These findings can be used to destigmatize both autistic intimacy and engagement in alternative intimate practices more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Pearson
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Hodgetts
- Psychology Department, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
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Gupta A, Shah B, Jain A. Novel Method for Restitution of a Torqued and Entrapped Kinked 7F Catheter in the Ascending Aorta. Cureus 2023; 15:e49856. [PMID: 38170123 PMCID: PMC10758904 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Knotting and kinking of diagnostic coronary artery catheters are potentially catastrophic complications though their occurrence is uncommon. However, abrupt kinking of 7F guide catheters in the ascending aorta becomes a quirky puzzle. This case emphasizes the importance of avoiding kinking and provides recommendations for catheter retrieval in the unlikely event of this complication. To the best of our knowledge, the technique used in our case has not been described before.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Gupta
- Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli, IND
| | - Bhushan Shah
- Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, IND
| | - Ashish Jain
- Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli, IND
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Reynish TD, Hoang H, Bridgman H, Easpaig BNG. Kink-Oriented People and Exogenous Oppressions: Understanding Mental Health and Related Service Use in a Rural Context. J Homosex 2023; 70:1479-1502. [PMID: 35113001 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2022.2036531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Rural, kink-oriented people experience much exogenous oppression and yet related research is scarce. This study examined the risk and protective factors of kink-oriented rural Tasmanian Australians with preexisting mental health conditions and help-seeking barriers and facilitators. Participants completed either an online survey (n = 42), an interview (n = 10), or both. Thematic analysis and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the qualitative and quantitative data, respectively. Participants aged 18 to 61 were gender and sexually diverse and better educated but had more lifetime suicide attempts than the general public. Despite the increasing normalization of kink, 90.5% of participants have never seen a kink-aware mental health professional (MHP) and nearly 83.0% did not disclose to an MHP for fear of stigma or discrimination. Self-awareness, resilience, social support and kink improved participants' mental health. Tailored support from trained MHP is vital to improve the mental health of kink-oriented people in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara D Reynish
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Ha Hoang
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Heather Bridgman
- Centre for Rural Health, College of Health and Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Bróna Nic Giolla Easpaig
- Centre for Healthcare Resilience & Implement Science, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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6
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Drouin M, Hernandez E, Machette A, Garcia JR, Boyd RL. An exploration of marks/injuries related to BDSM sexual experiences. Sex Med 2023; 11:qfad020. [PMID: 37273891 PMCID: PMC10236207 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite its growing prevalence, BDSM practice (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, and sadomasochism) is still stigmatized, and little is known about the physical marks and injuries that individuals sustain from consensual BDSM-related activities. Aim In this exploratory study, we examined BDSM sexual experiences and the physical marks and injuries resulting from these experiences in a convenience sample of 513 US adults. Methods We examined the extent to which individuals at various stages of BDSM exploration engage with different types of BDSM and kink behaviors, along with the frequency with which they communicate about, inflict, and receive physical marks from these activities. Outcomes Our main outcome measures were intentional and unintentional marks sustained from BDSM-related activities, BDSM experiences, and the use of safe words. Results Results revealed that BDSM marks and injuries are common and quite varied (from small scratches to very large bruises) and unintentional and intentional marks differ in terms of typical size, place on body, and severity of injury. Additionally, BDSM experience is positively associated with the use of safe words and marking behaviors. Clinical Translation Disclosure of marks and injuries, intentional and unintentional, may be improved if health care providers are aware of, and make efforts to reduce stigma surrounding, BDSM and rough sex activity. Strengths and Limitations The findings of this study must be interpreted with acknowledgment of the limitations that it was a survey study with a convenience sample. However, as one of the few studies exploring the marks and injuries sustained from BDSM activities, the exploration of intentional and unintentional marks sustained provides a critical starting point for future examination of BDSM consequences that intersect with health care and the law. Conclusion Marks and injuries from BDSM-related activities are common, and despite the greater use of safe words, practitioners with more BDSM experience inflict more marks than those with less BDSM experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Drouin
- Health Services and Informatics Research, Parkview Health, Fort Wayne, IN 46845, United States
- Department of Psychology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, United States
| | - Ellis Hernandez
- Department of Psychology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, United States
| | - Anthony Machette
- Department of Communication, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, United States
| | - Justin R Garcia
- Kinsey Institute and Department of Gender Studies, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Ryan L Boyd
- Obelus Institute, Washington, DC 20036, United States
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7
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Wright S, Bowling J, McCabe S, Benson JK, Stambaugh R, Cramer RJ. Sexual Violence and Nonconsensual Experiences Among Alt-Sex Communities' Members. J Interpers Violence 2022; 37:NP21800-NP21825. [PMID: 34990568 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211062999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As behaviors, alternative sexual (alt-sex) (i.e., kink, bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, and masochism , consensual non-monogamy, swinging, leather, and fetish practices) practitioners often emphasize that consent and boundaries are key elements of alt-sex activities. Despite these emphases, individuals experience consent violations and sexual assault both prior to engaging and during their involvement in alt-sex activities. PURPOSE This study examines alt-sex practitioners' sexual assault and nonconsensual experiences in order to highlight potential means of intervention and prevention, as well as inform clinical and legal professionals. METHODS In collaboration with the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom, this study uses an international survey of adults in alt-sex communities (N = 2996) to examine sexual assault and nonconsensual experiences both within and outside of alt-sex contexts. RESULTS We found a lower rate of consent violations in the alt-sex community (26%) compared to sexual assault as an adult outside of alt-sex contexts (34%) and sexual assault as a minor (40%). We found significant differences by groups in sexual assault as a minor (gender, sexual orientation, age, and live in the US or not), sexual assault outside of alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, and age), nonconsensual experiences in alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, age, and race), receiving nonconsensual touch in alt-sex contexts (gender, sexual orientation, and age), giving nonconsensual touch in alt-sex contexts (sexual orientation, age, living in the US or not, and race), and being falsely accused of nonconsensual touching in alt-sex contexts (gender, age, and living in the US or not). Within the most recent consent violation, the most common behaviors were non-kink related, except for lack of aftercare. Nearly 40% of participants reported the reasons for their most recent consent violation in alt-sex contexts were being selfish or caught up in the moment. IMPLICATIONS Focused interventions are needed to address how different populations are experiencing assault and violations in alt-sex contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Wright
- National Coalition for Sexual Freedom, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessamyn Bowling
- 14727University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Sean McCabe
- 14727University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Robert J Cramer
- 14727University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
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8
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Song C, Liao H, Yang N, Wang R, Tang G, Cao W. The role of point defects related with carbon impurity on the kink of log J- Vin GaN-on-Si epitaxial layers. Nanotechnology 2022; 33:495702. [PMID: 36044817 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac8e0d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Carbon impurity as point defects makes key impact on the leakage in GaN-on-Si structures. GaN-based epitaxial layers with different point defects by changing carbon-doped concentration were used to investigate the point defects behavior. It was found that leakage mechanisms correspond with space-charge-limited current models at low voltages, and after 1st kink, electron injection from silicon to GaN and PF conduction play a key role in the leakage of both point defects case with low carbon and high carbon doped. In addition, high carbon in GaN-on-Si epitaxial layers obtained lower leakage and larger breakdown voltage. The slope of logJ-Vhas two kinks and effective energy barrierEahas two peaks, 0.4247 eV at about 300 V and 0.3485 eV at about 900 V, respectively, which is related to accepted states and donor states related with carbon impurity. While the slope of logJ-Vhas one kink and effective energy barrierEahas one peak, 0.4794 eV at about 400 V of low carbon in GaN-on-Si epitaxial layers, indicating only field-induced accepted ionized makes impact on leakage. The comparative results of more donor trap density in high carbon indicate point defects related with carbon impurity play a key role in the kinks of logJ-Vslope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Song
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Liao
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningxuan Yang
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghui Tang
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
| | - Weicheng Cao
- Department of Physics, College of Sciences, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, People's Republic of China
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Song MS, Koren T, Załuska-Kotur M, Buczko R, Avraham N, Kacman P, Shtrikman H, Beidenkopf H. Sub-Band Spectrum Engineering via Structural Order in Tapered Nanowires. Nano Lett 2021; 21:10215-10221. [PMID: 34882412 PMCID: PMC8704197 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c03071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The cross-sectional dimensions of nanowires set the quantization conditions for the electronic subbands they host. These can be used as a platform to realize one-dimesional topological superconductivity. Here we develop a protocol that forces such nanowires to kink and change their growth direction. Consequently, a thin rectangular nanoplate is formed, which gradually converges into a very thin square tip. We characterize the resulting tapered nanowires structurally and spectroscopically by scanning and transmission electron microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy and model their growth. A unique structure composed of ordered rows of atoms on the (110) facet of the nanoflag is further revealed by atomically resolved topography and modeled by simulations. We discuss possible advantages tapered InAs nanowires offer for Majorana zero-mode realization and manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Suk Song
- Department
of Condensed Matter Physics, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Tom Koren
- Department
of Condensed Matter Physics, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Magdalena Załuska-Kotur
- Institute
of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Aleja Lotnikow 32/46, Warsaw PL-02-668, Poland
| | - Ryszard Buczko
- Institute
of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Aleja Lotnikow 32/46, Warsaw PL-02-668, Poland
| | - Nurit Avraham
- Department
of Condensed Matter Physics, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Perla Kacman
- Institute
of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Aleja Lotnikow 32/46, Warsaw PL-02-668, Poland
| | - Hadas Shtrikman
- Department
of Condensed Matter Physics, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Haim Beidenkopf
- Department
of Condensed Matter Physics, Weizmann Institute
of Science, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
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10
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Huang M, Qiu Z, Wang F, Luo H, Yang C, Zhang J. The Effects of Forming CeFe 2 on Phase Structure and Magnetic Properties in Ce-Rich Nd-Ce-Fe-B Permanent Magnetic Materials. Materials (Basel) 2021; 14:6070. [PMID: 34683669 DOI: 10.3390/ma14206070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The decomposition of the Nd-Ce-Fe-B phase to form CeFe2 has been usually believed to have an important positive effect on the magnetic properties of Nd-Ce-Fe-B permanent magnetic materials. In this work, a new decomposition process of the Nd-Ce-Fe-B phase on the formation of the CeFe2 phase was observed to play a negative role in its magnetic properties. It is demonstrated that the Nd-Ce-Fe-B phase decomposes into non-magnetic CeFe2, accompanied by the precipitation of Fe soft-phase. The kinks usually occurring in the demagnetization curves of Ce-rich Nd-Ce-Fe-B magnets have been determined to be related to the Fe soft-phase. Instead of using CeFe2 as a grain-boundary phase, another Ce-Cu boundary phase has been explored to efficiently improve the coercivity of Ce-rich Nd-Ce-Fe-B magnets, provided that the Ce-Cu boundary phase has an appropriate Ce to Cu ratio. The present results contribute to the mechanism comprehension and high-performance design of Nd-Ce-Fe-B permanent magnetic materials.
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Singh N, Chauhan R, Sarna R, Mohan A. Tracheal Tube Kinking Amidst Prone Position During Neurosurgical Procedures: An Attempt to Elucidate the Mechanism. J Pediatr Neurosci 2021; 16:332-334. [PMID: 36531767 PMCID: PMC9757508 DOI: 10.4103/jpn.jpn_226_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The tracheal tube (TT) kink during the intraoperative period is commonly observed and is worrisome once the positioning is done during neurosurgical procedures. The complications related to tube kink are more in the prone position and the mechanism of this with the neck in flexion has not been explained anywhere. We have made an attempt to elucidate the probable mechanism of this TT kink by using SOLIDWORKS 2020 {3D Computer assisted design (CAD) design software} and the precautions that can be taken to prevent perioperative catastrophe by describing a case of a pediatric patient undergoing a neurosurgical procedure while in the prone position.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Singh
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rajeev Chauhan
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rashi Sarna
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anjali Mohan
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Abstract
Spiroplasma are helical bacteria that lack a peptidoglycan layer. They are widespread globally as parasites of arthropods and plants. Their infectious processes and survival are most likely supported by their unique swimming system, which is unrelated to well-known bacterial motility systems such as flagella and pili. Spiroplasma swims by switching the left- and right-handed helical cell body alternately from the cell front. The kinks generated by the helicity shift travel down along the cell axis and rotate the cell body posterior to the kink position like a screw, pushing the water backward and propelling the cell body forward. An internal structure called the "ribbon" has been focused to elucidate the mechanisms for the cell helicity formation and swimming. The ribbon is composed of Spiroplasma-specific fibril protein and a bacterial actin, MreB. Here, we propose a model for helicity-switching swimming focusing on the ribbon, in which MreBs generate a force like a bimetallic strip based on ATP energy and switch the handedness of helical fibril filaments. Cooperative changes of these filaments cause helicity to shift down the cell axis. Interestingly, unlike other motility systems, the fibril protein and Spiroplasma MreBs can be traced back to their ancestors. The fibril protein has evolved from methylthioadenosine/S-adenosylhomocysteine (MTA/SAH) nucleosidase, which is essential for growth, and MreBs, which function as a scaffold for peptidoglycan synthesis in walled bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuya Sasajima
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Miyata
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
- The OCU Advanced Research Institute for Natural Science and Technology (OCARINA), Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
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Shah-Beckley I, Clarke V, Thomas Z. Therapists' and non-therapists' constructions of heterosex: A qualitative story completion study. Psychol Psychother 2020; 93:189-206. [PMID: 30456851 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little research has examined the discourses that shape therapists' sense-making around heterosex. This paper explores the discourses of sexuality and gender underpinning therapists' and non-therapists' responses to a sexual experimentation scenario in a heterosexual relationship. It also considers the value of the novel technique of story completion (SC), in which participants are asked to write a story in response to a hypothetical scenario, for qualitative psychology and psychotherapy research. DESIGN This research used a comparative SC design (Kitzinger & Powell, 1995). Participants were sequentially presented with and invited to complete two story stems: one in which a male character suggested 'trying something new' to his female partner and one in which the female character made the suggestion. The stems were otherwise identical. METHODS A total of 100 SCs were written by 49 (28 female; 21 male) therapists and 51 (29 female; 22 male) non-therapists. Participants were recruited mainly via UK-based email lists and Facebook groups, and therapeutic training organizations, and the data were analysed using a feminist post-structuralist thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). RESULTS Both groups of participants drew on heteronormative discourses of sexuality and gender to make sense of the stem. Engaging in sexual experimentation was often depicted as a demonstration of being normal. In some stories written by women, sex was framed as a site for negotiating 'equality' and reciprocity in relationships. Therapists were more likely than non-therapists to frame 'difficulties' within relationships as opportunities for personal growth and increased emotional depth, and their stories included greater emotional complexity. CONCLUSION These findings raise questions about practitioner training and whether it results in therapists drawing on narrow and restrictive discourses of heterosex in clinical practice. PRACTITIONER POINTS Training on sexual issues is largely absent from non-specialist practitioner training courses, which potentially means therapists are ill-equipped to respond to clients' anxiety about sexual issues. Evidence from this and other research indicates that therapists' sense-making around heterosexual sexual relationships is underpinned by narrow and restrictive discourses that entrench traditional gender relations and limit sexual agency. Psychologists are increasingly taking up positions of clinical leadership and are looked to for models of best practice. Drawing on theorizations of sexual difficulties, and of anxieties about sexual practice, that challenge traditional gender and heteronorms, and the commodification and medicalization of sex, is important for effective psychological leadership relating to the treatment of sexual issues and the furthering of social justice agendas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victoria Clarke
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, The University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Thomas
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, The University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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Benson JC, Brinjikji W, Messina SA, Lanzino G, Kallmes DF. Cervical internal carotid artery tortuosity: A morphologic analysis of patients with acute ischemic stroke. Interv Neuroradiol 2019; 26:216-221. [PMID: 31766962 DOI: 10.1177/1591019919891295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cervical internal carotid artery (ICA) tortuosity is thought to impede distal catheterization during attempted mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke. This study sought to assess the morphologic characteristics of ICAs and the effects of tortuosity on thrombectomy attempts. METHODS A retrospective review was completed of neck CTAs of patients with acute ischemic stroke due to a large vessel occlusion that underwent attempted endovascular recanalization. Significant tortuosity of ICAs was defined as the presence of kink(s) (acute (<90°) angulation), loop(s) (C- or S-shaped curvature with 2+ areas of acute (<90°) angulation), or coil(s) (full 360° turn arterial bend). Findings were statistically compared to procedure time, successful recanalization rate, patient demographics, and co-morbidities. RESULTS Of 120 included patients, 47 (39.2%) had some form of tortuosity of one or both ICAs. Twenty-eight patients (23.3%) had a kink of one or both ICAs; this was followed in frequency by loops (n = 20; 16.7%) and coils (n = 8; 6.7%). Kinks were associated with lower rates of successful recanalization (p = 0.02). The presence of any tortuosity (kinks, loops, or coils) was not associated with number of passes during thrombectomy (p = 0.88), successful recanalization (p = 0.11), or total procedure time (p = 0.22). No association was noted between the presence of tortuosity and age (p = 0.96) or prior or current tobacco use (p = 0.75 and p = 0.69, respectively). CONCLUSION Among patients referred for urgent revascularization for large vessel occlusion, approximately 40% exhibit some tortuosity. Kinks may portend lower likelihood of recanalization success, although tortuosity as a whole seems to have little effect on endovascular thrombectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Benson
- Department of Neuroradiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, USA
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Abstract
This study examines how BDSM participants understand sexual experiences. Data are drawn from 32 in-depth, semistructured interviews and discussion-board threads from a large BDSM community Web site. The analysis suggests that many BDSM participants perceive sexual BDSM experiences as not only significantly different from but also better than mainstream or "vanilla" sex. Three primary differentiation mechanisms are identified. First, BDSM participants constructed sex as requiring genital contact, while framing sexual BDSM as creating sexual fulfillment not requiring normative indicators of sexual experiences (e.g., orgasm). Second, participants constructed sexual BDSM as centered on emotional and mental experiences, while perceiving sex as being centered on physical experiences. Third, participants perceived sexual BDSM experiences as facilitating deeper interpersonal connections than those available in sex. Importantly, these mechanisms serve not only a differentiating but also an evaluative function. Most participants in this study reported a strong preference for sexual BDSM over sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandy L Simula
- a Department of Sociology , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
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Rehor JE. Sensual, erotic, and sexual behaviors of women from the " kink" community. Arch Sex Behav 2015; 44:825-36. [PMID: 25795531 PMCID: PMC4379392 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-015-0524-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2012] [Revised: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Unconventional sensual, erotic, and sexual behaviors (herein referred to as kink behaviors) investigated by academia are based largely on clinical and criminal cases, and most published, peer-reviewed, quantitative research on these behaviors is based almost exclusively on male participants. For this study, information was collected and analyzed from 1580 female participants recruited from the kink community, using a non-clinical and non-criminal sample. We explored and described the preferences and diversity of more than 126 sensual, erotic, and sexual behaviors found among these participants, along with recommendations for continued research. Gaining a better understanding of the breadth and depth of activities engaged in by female kink practitioners could benefit educators, counselors, therapists, medical doctors, and other professionals when interacting with members of the kink community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Eve Rehor
- Department of Sociology and Sexuality Studies, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco, CA, 94132, USA,
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Scheffler K, Recouvreux P, Paoletti A, Tran PT. Oscillatory AAA+ ATPase Knk1 constitutes a novel morphogenetic pathway in fission yeast. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:17899-904. [PMID: 25422470 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1407226111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular morphogenesis relies partly on cell polarization by the cytoskeleton. In the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, it is well established that microtubules (MTs) deliver the spatial cue Tea1, a kelch repeat protein, to the tip regions to direct the growth machinery at the cell tips driving the linear extension of the rod-shaped organism to maintain a straight long axis. Here, we report the characterization of Knk1 (kink), a previously unidentified member of the superfamily of ATPases associated with various cellular activities (AAA(+)), whose deletion causes a unique morphological defect characterized by the formation of kinks close to cell tips. Through genetic analysis, we place Knk1 into a novel pathway controlling cell shape independently of MTs and Tea1. Knk1 localizes at cell tips. Its localization is mediated by the Knk1 N terminus and is enhanced upon ATP binding to the C-terminal ATPase domain. Furthermore, Knk1 tip recruitment is regulated by SRC-like adaptor 2 (Sla2) and cell division cycle 42 (Cdc42) independently of Sla2's role in endocytosis. Finally, we discovered that Knk1 shows an anticorrelated oscillatory behavior between the two cell tips at a periodicity that is different from the reported oscillatory Cdc42 dynamics.
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Noskov RE, Smirnova DA, Kivshar YS. Plasmonic kinks and walking solitons in nonlinear lattices of metal nanoparticles. Philos Trans A Math Phys Eng Sci 2014; 372:rsta.2014.0010. [PMID: 25246678 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2014.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We study nonlinear effects in one-dimensional (1D) arrays and two-dimensional (2D) lattices composed of metallic nanoparticles with the nonlinear Kerr-like response and an external driving field. We demonstrate the existence of families of moving solitons in 1D arrays and characterize their properties such as an average drifting velocity. We also analyse the impact of varying external field intensity and frequency on the structure and dynamics of kinks in 2D lattices. In particular, we identify the kinks with positive, negative and zero velocity as well as breathing kinks with a self-oscillating profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman E Noskov
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen 91058, Germany ITMO University, St Petersburg 197101, Russia
| | - Daria A Smirnova
- Nonlinear Physics Center, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 0200, Australia
| | - Yuri S Kivshar
- ITMO University, St Petersburg 197101, Russia Nonlinear Physics Center, Research School of Physics and Engineering, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 0200, Australia
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Luo J, Parsons SM. Conformational Propensities of Peptides Mimicking Transmembrane Helix 5 and Motif C in Wild-type and Mutant Vesicular Acetylcholine Transporters. ACS Chem Neurosci 2010; 1:381-390. [PMID: 20544010 PMCID: PMC2882315 DOI: 10.1021/cn900033s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2009] [Accepted: 01/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) is a member of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS). It contains conserved sequence motifs originally defined in the bacterial multidrug resistance transporter family of the MFS. Motif C (GSLV(227) A(228)PPFGGIL) is located at the C-terminal end of transmembrane helix 5 (TM 5) in VAChT. The motif is rich in glycine and proline residues that often have special roles in backbone conformations of TMs. The A228G mutant of VAChT transports > 3-fold faster than wild type does [Chandrasekaran et al. (2006)J. Neurochem. 98, 1551-1559.]. In the current study, the structure of Loop 4/5, TM 5, and Motif C were taken from a three-dimensional homology model for human VAChT. The peptide was immersed in implicit membrane, energy minimized, and molecular dynamics (MD) were simulated. Kinking and wobbling occur in otherwise helical peptide at the hinge residues L226 and V227. MD also were simulated for A228G single-mutant and V227L-A228A double-mutant peptides to investigate the structural roles of the A228G mutation and beta-branching at V227. Mutant peptides exhibit increased wobbling at the hinge residues, but in the double mutant the increase is less. Because Motif C participates in the interface that mediates hypothesized rocker-switch re-orientation of the acetylcholine binding site during transport, dynamics in Motif C might be an important contributor to transport rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Luo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106-9510
| | - Stanley M. Parsons
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106-9510
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