ETV6::RUNX1-like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

ETV6::RUNX1-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a novel B-cell precursor leukemia subtype with similarities to ETV6::RUNX1 ALL without the presence of the ETV6-RUNX1 fusion gene. In this review, we survey the body of literature surrounding this recently categorized B-ALL type, including biomarkers, frequently associated mutations and prognosis of the disease. Identifying novel subcategories of B-ALL through high-throughput genetic analysis techniques allows for better guidance in management and more accurate prognosis.

Fanconi Anemia, AML, and MDS.

The Fanconi anemia (FA) genes are a family of at least 23 known genes that are spread across many chromosomes and participate in interstrand crosslink (ICLs) DNA repair. In this pathway, FA proteins are involved in sensing sites of ICLs, translocating repair enzymes from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, excising the area of damage, and facilitating repair of the fractured DNA. Mutations in these genes lead to Fanconi anemia, a syndrome characterized primarily by pancytopenia but with associated symptoms involving nearly every organ system; the majority of patients present with dermatological symptoms and growth deficits.

Restoring adiponectin via rosiglitazone ameliorates tissue wasting in mice with lung cancer.

Aim: To investigate systemic regulators of the cancer-associated cachexia syndrome (CACS) in a pre-clinical model for lung cancer with the goal to identify therapeutic targets for tissue wasting.

Methods: Using the Kras/Lkb1 (KL) mouse model, we found that CACS is associated with white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction that directly affects skeletal muscle homeostasis. WAT transcriptomes showed evidence of reduced adipogenesis, and, in agreement, we found low levels of circulating adiponectin.

A Case of a Patient with Therapy-related Core Binding Factor (CBF) Acute Myeloid Leukemia (CBF-AML).

Identifying therapy-related AML (t-AML) of newly diagnosed acute leukemias is of great interest. Development of t-AML can occur after cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or radiation. We report a case of t-AML with CBFB::MYH11 fusion in a patient with a distant history of treated stage IIIB nodular sclerosing Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Profiling of Skeletal Muscle and Adipose Tissue Depots in Men with Advanced Prostate Cancer Receiving Different Forms of Androgen Deprivation Therapy.

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a common treatment modality for men with prostate cancer. Increases in adipose tissue mass and decreases in skeletal muscle mass are known on-target adverse effects of standard ADT. The effects of newer agents such as abiraterone acetate (ABI) and enzalutamide (ENZA) on body composition and how these compare with standard luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists (aLHRHs) are unclear.

TIMP1 is an early biomarker for detection and prognosis of lung cancer.

Background: Lung cancer remains the major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early stages of lung cancer are characterized by long asymptomatic periods that are ineffectively identified with the current screening programs. This deficiency represents a lost opportunity to improve the overall survival of patients.

Restoring adiponectin via rosiglitazone ameliorates tissue wasting in mice with lung cancer.

The cancer associated cachexia syndrome (CACS) is a systemic metabolic disorder resulting in loss of body weight due to skeletal muscle and adipose tissues atrophy. CACS is particularly prominent in lung cancer patients, where it contributes to poor quality of life and excess mortality. Using the Kras/Lkb1 (KL) mouse model, we found that CACS is associated with white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction that directly affects skeletal muscle homeostasis.

Strategy to reduce radiation exposure in postoperative spinal computed tomography scans.

Background: When diagnosing and treating spinal disorders, spine surgeons commonly utilize computed tomography (CT) scans preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively.

Methods: This article reviews the literature regarding the potentially harmful effects of X-rays, specifically from CT scans.

Results: The risk for damaging DNA and developing cancer increases with increasing scan length (e.