DR. JEFFREY EDWARD KREMEN, M.D.

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This study looked at why some transgender adolescents stop taking gender-affirming hormones (GAH) after starting treatment. Out of 1,050 adolescents who were studied, 93% continued using the hormones, while only 4% stopped and did not restart. The reasons for discontinuation were mostly about achieving their desired gender expression or difficulties in accessing the hormones, not because they wanted to change back to their assigned sex at birth. Who this helps: This information benefits transgender adolescents and healthcare providers by providing insights into the experiences of those undergoing hormone therapy.

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This study looked at the challenges faced by healthcare providers who care for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse young adults in certain parts of the U.S. Researchers interviewed 13 clinicians and found that they felt a strong need for better training and mentorship to effectively support these patients, as many lacked access to local educational resources. This is important because improving clinician education can lead to better healthcare for TGD young adults. Who this helps: This helps healthcare providers and their transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse young adult patients.

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This study looked at how propolis, a natural substance from bees, affects the health and growth of newborn dairy calves. Researchers found that while propolis didn't significantly improve the calves' weight or other growth measures, it did help reduce the number of days the calves experienced omphalitis, an inflammation of the navel, by a notable amount (with a significance level of 0.016). This finding is important because it suggests that propolis might help prevent certain health issues in young calves, even if it doesn't impact their overall growth. Who this helps: This helps farmers and veterinarians looking to improve the health of newborn dairy calves.

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This study looked at the anxiety levels of parents with children who have differences of sex development and hypospadias, comparing them to parents of healthy babies and those with critically ill infants. It found that 33% of these parents reported significant anxiety, similar to the 34% seen in parents of NICU infants, but higher than the 21% among parents of healthy newborns. Key factors influencing this anxiety included fear of uncertainty, stress related to their own health, education level, and feelings of stigma, indicating a need for targeted support for these families. Who this helps: This research benefits parents of children with urogenital conditions.

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This study looked at how caregivers of transgender and gender diverse youth navigate changes in their relationships as they support their children through their gender journey. Researchers interviewed 14 caregivers and found that these caregivers felt a mix of loss and worry but also learned to connect and advocate for their children by sharing experiences and educating themselves and others. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for creating resources that help caregivers better support transgender youth. Who this helps: This helps caregivers of transgender and gender diverse youth.

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The study focused on how adult endocrinologists feel about caring for adolescents with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) as they transition to adult healthcare. Out of 34 endocrinologists surveyed, 73.5% treat CAH patients, and 71.9% felt confident in their ability to provide care, but only half could answer basic care questions correctly. The main challenge identified was a lack of standardized policies for transitioning these patients into adult care, highlighting the need for better training and guidelines. Who this helps: This benefits patients with CAH and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by changes in the KMT2C gene. Researchers examined 98 individuals with KMT2C variants and found that those affected often experience developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and various health challenges. The findings show that this condition is different from other similar disorders, like Kleefstra and Kabuki syndromes, and highlight the importance of recognizing it as a distinct diagnosis. Who this helps: This helps patients with KMT2C-related conditions and their families, as well as doctors who treat them.

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This study focused on improving medical education by incorporating the experiences of LGBTQIA+ community members into the curriculum at Harvard Medical School. The researchers successfully included these perspectives through methods like community panel events and interviews, helping students better understand the health needs of LGBTQIA+ patients. This matters because it prepares future doctors to provide better care to these communities, ensuring that their unique healthcare needs are recognized and met. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those who identify as LGBTQIA+.

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This study looked at how prenatal testing can identify issues related to sex chromosomes, known as sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA). It found that when high-risk results come from cell-free DNA screening, these results should be confirmed with more accurate diagnostic tests. Understanding these findings is important for helping healthcare providers give better advice to parents after receiving a prenatal diagnosis of SCA. Who this helps: This benefits expecting parents and healthcare providers involved in prenatal care.

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This study looked at the mental health and neuropsychological issues faced by 631 young people with Turner syndrome, finding that nearly half (48.2%) had documented concerns in these areas. Recommendations for neuropsychological evaluations were noted for about a third (33.9%) of patients, and around 65.4% of those went on to complete them. The research highlighted that screening and treatment practices vary widely between hospitals, which suggests a need for more consistent approaches across the board. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Turner syndrome and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how doctors make decisions about genital reconstructive surgeries for transgender and intersex patients. It found that the decision-making process varies significantly between these groups and emphasizes the need for stronger ethical practices that prioritize patients' rights to make informed choices regarding their care. By focusing on patient autonomy, healthcare can become more equitable for all individuals with diverse gender identities. Who this helps: This helps transgender and intersex patients who need support in making informed decisions about their surgeries.

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This study looked at how transgender and gender-diverse young adults search for information about gender identity and medical transition. Researchers surveyed 102 participants aged 18-25 and found that most preferred personal stories from other transgender individuals over traditional sources. This matters because it highlights the need for better, community-based resources to help TGD youth navigate their journeys safely and confidently. Who this helps: This helps transgender and gender-diverse youth seeking support and information.

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This study looked at how proposed laws to ban gender-affirming medical care for young people affected pediatric hormone doctors across the United States. Out of 223 surveyed doctors, 125 (56%) were already providing this care, but 103 (45.7%) worked in states with potential bans, which made them feel unsafe and worried about their careers. The findings reveal that such legislation can create obstacles to care and deter qualified medical professionals from supporting transgender youth. Who this helps: This research helps transgender youth and their families by highlighting the importance of access to knowledgeable medical providers.

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This study looked at how to help transfeminine adolescents preserve their fertility while starting hormone treatment. The researchers found that all ten patients who underwent a process called Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) successfully had their sperm retrieved and stored, with an average age of just over 14 years when this was done. This research is important because it shows that fertility preservation can be managed effectively without delaying the start of hormone therapy. Who this helps: This helps transgender adolescents and their families by providing options for future family planning.

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This study focused on improving a tool used to evaluate excessive hair growth (hirsutism) by making it more inclusive for people of all gender identities. Researchers found that using traditional images often made some patients uncomfortable and that a new, gender-neutral version helped a 16-year-old nonbinary patient feel more at ease while documenting their condition. This change is significant because it highlights how gender-specific tools can affect patient care and shows the importance of inclusivity in medical practices. Who this helps: This helps patients of all gender identities who experience hirsutism and may feel uncomfortable with traditional assessment tools.

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This study looks at how healthcare providers can support transgender and gender-diverse young people in their medical care. It highlights the importance of using the right names and pronouns, and discusses various medical treatments like hormone therapy that can affect growth, bone health, and fertility, although some risks are still unclear. Understanding how to provide effective care for these patients is crucial for their overall well-being and helps ensure they receive appropriate support during their transition. Who this helps: This helps transgender and gender-diverse young people and their families.

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This study looked at how healthcare providers talk to girls with Turner syndrome, a condition that can affect fertility, about their fertility options. Out of 119 providers surveyed, 70% regularly discussed fertility concerns, but only 56% often referred patients who began menstruating to specialists for fertility preservation, while just 19% did the same for those who had not menstruated (a significant difference). Understanding these practices is important because it highlights gaps in communication and referral that could affect the future fertility options for young women with Turner syndrome. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Turner syndrome and their families, as well as the doctors who care for them.

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Harvard Medical School studied how well its curriculum prepared medical students to care for sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients and how welcoming the learning environment was for all students. They found that by introducing 9 new competencies about SGM health, increasing the number of LGBTQIA+ students admitted, and creating tools for teaching, they improved both the educational experience and the support available for these students. This is important because it ensures that future doctors are better equipped to understand and meet the healthcare needs of SGM populations. Who this helps: This helps medical students, LGBTQIA+ patients, and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at why parents choose to have surgery to alter the genitals of their infant daughters who have atypical genital development. Researchers found that out of 58 children, those who did not have surgery received more positive assessments of their genital appearance from dads and doctors compared to those who underwent surgery. Additionally, mothers in the no-surgery group experienced less anxiety and depression than those whose children had surgery. Understanding these factors can help healthcare providers better support parents in making informed choices. Who this helps: This helps parents and families of infants with unusual genital development.

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This study examined a 9-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis who had been experiencing high blood sugar levels for five years. Researchers found that she had a specific genetic mutation linked to a form of diabetes called GCK-MODY, which can occur without insulin deficiency. This matters because recognizing different causes of diabetes in children with cystic fibrosis can lead to better care and monitoring. Who this helps: This assists doctors in diagnosing and treating diabetes in young cystic fibrosis patients.

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This study looked at the WNT2B gene and its connection to a rare disease that affects the intestines and eyes. Researchers found four people with different genetic changes in WNT2B, leading to severe diarrhea and growth issues, with one patient also having significant eye and genitalia abnormalities. The findings highlight that problems with WNT2B can cause a syndrome that impacts both gut and eye development, which is important for diagnosing and managing these patients. Who this helps: Patients with congenital enteropathy and related conditions.

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This study looked at breakthrough bleeding in transgender and gender diverse adolescents and young adults who have been on testosterone treatment for over a year. Out of 232 patients, about 25% (58 individuals) experienced this unexpected bleeding, often starting around two years after beginning the treatment. It matters because this bleeding can increase feelings of discomfort and distress regarding their gender identity, and the study found that most cases didn't have a clear reason or effective management method. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing testosterone therapy and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how healthcare for adults with differences in sex development or intersex traits is changing, revealing that many adult doctors are not trained to take care of these patients. It found that as children's treatment approaches change, especially regarding early surgeries, there is an urgent need for better training for adult healthcare providers. Improving adult care is crucial because it ensures continuity of care for individuals with these conditions, who may face unique health challenges throughout their lives. Who this helps: This helps patients with intersex traits and their families, as well as healthcare providers.

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The research examined how depression affects people with Turner syndrome (TS), a genetic condition. It analyzed 35 studies and found that adolescents and adults with TS experience more severe depressive symptoms than those without the condition; in fact, adult TS patients have the highest risk for depression. This information is important because it highlights a need for better mental health support for individuals with TS, especially as they transition into adulthood. Who this helps: This helps patients with Turner syndrome and their doctors in understanding and addressing mental health issues.

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This study looked at the blood supply in a specific type of fat called brown adipose tissue in mice. The researchers used a special imaging technique and found that smaller blood vessels are more common than larger ones. This is important because it helps us understand how brown fat gets its blood supply, which could be useful in studying metabolism and obesity treatments. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on obesity and metabolic diseases.

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This study looked at how well pediatric endocrinologists are screening girls with Turner Syndrome for neurodevelopmental and mental health issues. Out of 124 doctors surveyed, only 25% reported that their patients received both types of screenings, with just 9% conducting screenings for neurodevelopmental concerns and 26% for mental health issues. Implementing a simple screening tool could significantly improve the number of girls with Turner Syndrome who receive important mental health and developmental evaluations. Who this helps: This helps girls with Turner Syndrome and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at genetic factors that cause differences or disorders of sex development (DSD). Researchers found new candidate genes linked to DSD, including important genes like SOX8 and ESR2 for XY DSD and NR2F2 for XX DSD. These discoveries could help improve the understanding and treatment of DSD, which is crucial for affected individuals and their families. Who this helps: Patients with differences or disorders of sex development and their doctors.

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This study looked at how pediatric centers discuss fertility options with young women who have Turner syndrome (TS). Out of 469 patients, only 67% had any fertility counseling documented, and just 10% were referred to fertility specialists, even though most had a chance to conceive. This is important because proper counseling and referrals can help these young women make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Who this helps: This benefits young women with Turner syndrome and their families.

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This research looked into genetic factors behind disorders of sex development (DSD), which affect how sexual traits form. It found that new genetic tests could identify the cause of DSD in 35% of individuals with a specific genetic makeup who hadn't been diagnosed before. Notably, a new mutation was linked to testicular development issues in certain genetic groups, highlighting the importance of specific genes in sexual differentiation. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients affected by DSD by providing better diagnosis and understanding of genetic causes.

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This study looked at sexual behaviors in women using two types of birth control: depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) and oral contraceptive pills (OCP). It involved 630 women, finding that those on OCP were generally older, more likely to use condoms, and had been using their method longer. There was no significant difference in infection rates between the two groups, but the study suggests that better understanding of these behaviors is important for managing health risks. Who this helps: This research benefits healthcare providers and women considering different contraceptive options.

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This study examined how a protein called hepcidin, which helps control iron levels in the body, changes in fatty tissue during heart surgery. Researchers found that hepcidin levels increased significantly in the subcutaneous fat (the fat just under the skin) by the end of the surgery, while levels in heart fat did not change. This is important because it suggests that inflammation during surgery can alter iron metabolism in the body, which may lead to problems like anemia. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart surgery by improving understanding of how surgery affects iron levels.

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This study looked at how well blood tests can detect specific markers in melanoma patients after surgery to predict their chances of surviving the disease. Researchers followed 65 patients over five years and found that 27 of them experienced a relapse; nearly all of these relapsing patients (26 out of 27) had detectable cancer markers in their blood. The results showed that patients with negative tests for these markers after two years had a better chance of surviving for five years, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring for those at risk. Who this helps: This helps patients with melanoma by identifying those who may need closer monitoring and treatment.

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This study looked at whether a new method of measuring lactate (a substance that can indicate how well the body is functioning) in the tissue just under the skin can replace traditional measurements taken from blood in patients recovering from major heart surgery. Researchers tested 40 patients and found that while measurements from subcutaneous tissue closely matched blood lactate levels in most cases, a significant number—42% of individual readings and 35% of trends over time—were not reliable. This matters because an accurate measure of lactate is critical for providing timely care in these patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors by providing insights into better monitoring techniques for their patients after heart surgery.

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This study looked at how cardiac surgery affects fat tissue in the heart and its connection to insulin resistance, which is when the body has trouble using insulin to control blood sugar. Researchers found that levels of angiotensinogen, a protein that can influence insulin resistance, rose significantly in the heart area's fat tissue after surgery. This matters because it suggests that changes in fat tissue may play a role in patients becoming more resistant to insulin after major surgery, which could impact their recovery and long-term health. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

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This study looked at a new method for detecting melanoma cells in the blood of patients with early-stage melanoma, which could help identify when the cancer is spreading. The researchers tested blood samples from 65 patients over 18 months and found that 18 of them relapsed, showing an increase in specific melanoma markers several months before the disease worsened. Specifically, they noted that 39% of patients who progressed had three markers detected at once, while others showed varying combinations, highlighting that these markers could indicate disease progression early on and may guide treatment decisions. Who this helps: This benefits melanoma patients and their doctors by improving monitoring and treatment strategies.

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This study looked at proteins called adhesion molecules in obese women to see how a very-low-calorie diet affected their levels and gene expression. The researchers found that before the diet, obese women had higher levels of E-selectin compared to lean women (24.4 ng/ml vs. 15 ng/ml) and that after three weeks on the diet, their weight and E-selectin levels decreased. The findings highlight that fat tissue doesn't primarily produce these adhesion molecules, impacting our understanding of how obesity affects health. Who this helps: This helps patients with obesity and healthcare providers working to manage their conditions.

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This study looked at a new blood test to help catch melanoma, a type of skin cancer, before it gets worse. Researchers tested blood samples from 65 patients who had surgery for melanoma and found that 27% of them had their cancer return during the study. They discovered that the presence of certain tumor markers in the blood, especially a marker called MAGE-3, could indicate when the cancer was progressing, with 39% of patients showing three markers at the same time during relapse. Who this helps: This benefits melanoma patients by providing a better way to detect cancer progression early.

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Researchers examined the effects of a drug called fenofibrate on insulin sensitivity in 10 obese women with type 2 diabetes over three months. They found that while fenofibrate reduced triglyceride levels, it did not improve insulin sensitivity, and blood sugar levels actually increased. This study is important because it shows that fenofibrate might not be effective for improving insulin sensitivity in humans, which differs from results seen in animal studies. Who this helps: This information helps doctors understand the limitations of fenofibrate for treating insulin sensitivity in obese women with type 2 diabetes.

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This study compared two methods for controlling blood sugar levels in patients undergoing heart surgery. Researchers found that the new computer-based method (eMPC) kept blood sugar levels closer to the target range (with an average of 6.2 mmol/liter) compared to the standard method (RMP), which had an average of 7.2 mmol/liter. The eMPC method also allowed patients to stay within the target range 60.4% of the time, much better than the 27.5% with the RMP method, while both methods showed no severe low blood sugar reactions. Who this helps: This research benefits cardiac surgery patients by improving their blood sugar management during and after surgery.

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This study looked at how well an automated system (eMPC) controls blood sugar levels in patients undergoing heart surgery compared to standard methods. It involved 20 patients and found that the automated system kept blood sugar levels lower (5.80 mmol/L) and within the target range more often (67.6% of the time) compared to the standard method (7.23 mmol/L and 27.6% of the time). These findings are important because better blood sugar control can lead to fewer complications and a quicker recovery for patients after heart surgery. Who this helps: Cardiac surgery patients.

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This study compared two methods of managing high blood sugar in critically ill patients: a standard treatment and a computer algorithm called Model Predictive Control (MPC). The findings showed that patients treated with the MPC algorithm kept their blood sugar in the target range for 26.3 hours, compared to 20.3 hours for those on standard treatment, and their average blood sugar was also lower at 6.47 mmol/L versus 6.72 mmol/L. These results are important because better blood sugar control can lead to improved outcomes for seriously ill patients. Who this helps: This helps critically ill patients in intensive care units improve their recovery chances.

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This study looked at how fat tissue in heart surgery patients produces certain hormones that appear to lead to insulin resistance, a condition where the body struggles to control blood sugar levels. Researchers found that as soon as 12 hours after surgery, patients needed up to seven times more insulin to keep their blood sugar normal. Notably, levels of a harmful protein called IL-6 rose 43 times during this period, indicating inflammation related to the surgery. Who this helps: This research helps patients recovering from heart surgery by highlighting factors that may affect their recovery and blood sugar management.

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This study looked at whether glucose levels in fat tissue, measured using a special technique, can reliably reflect glucose levels in the blood of critically ill patients after heart surgery. The researchers found that the average blood glucose was about 6.7 mmol/l, while the average glucose level in the fat tissue was around 3.55 mmol/l, showing a good connection between the two measurements. This matters because if we can use fat tissue measurements for monitoring glucose, it might make managing blood sugar easier for patients in intensive care. Who this helps: This helps critically ill patients and their doctors in managing blood sugar levels more effectively.