Scent of COVID-19: Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis Reveals the Role of , , and in Long-Lasting Olfactory Dysfunction.

COVID-19-related persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) presents remarkable interindividual differences, and little is known about the host genetic factors that are involved in its etiopathogenesis. The goal of this study was to explore the genetic factors underpinning COVID-19-related OD through the analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data of 153 affected subjects, focusing on genes involved in antiviral response regulation. An innovative approach was developed, namely the assessment of the association between a "gene score", defined as the ratio of the number of homozygous alternative variants within the gene to its length, and participants' olfactory function.

Oncological Feasibility of Limited Neck Dissection in cN0 Supraglottic Laryngeal Cancer.

Background: Supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a significant portion of head and neck cancers, with the management of clinically negative necks (cN0) through selective neck dissection (SND) being debated due to potential morbidities and low metastasis rates in levels IIb and IV.

Methods: This study is a retrospective, multicenter examination of the potential feasibility of limited neck dissection (LND), including only levels IIa and III in cN0 supraglottic SCC patients. It analyzed occult metastasis rates and explored relapse occurrences alongside potential predictors of lymph node metastasis.

Association between psychophysically measured olfactory dysfunction and mental health status in long COVID patients.

Background: Long COVID frequently presents with persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD), affecting both physical and psychological well-being. This study aims to evaluate the mental health consequences of OD in long COVID patients.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study involved 86 adult patients.

Quality of Information Provided by Artificial Intelligence Chatbots Surrounding the Reconstructive Surgery for Head and Neck Cancer: A Comparative Analysis Between ChatGPT4 and Claude2.

Introduction: Artificial Intelligences (AIs) are changing the way information is accessed and consumed globally. This study aims to evaluate the information quality provided by AIs ChatGPT4 and Claude2 concerning reconstructive surgery for head and neck cancer.

Methods: Thirty questions on reconstructive surgery for head and neck cancer were directed to both AIs and 16 head and neck surgeons assessed the responses using the QAMAI questionnaire.

Human Papillomaviruses 16 and 18 E6 Oncoprotein Detection Test in Primary Oropharyngeal Carcinomas and Metastatic Lymph Nodes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Purpose: Accuracy in the diagnosis of HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPSCC) of a rapid, low-cost lateral flow immunochromatographic assay for detecting E6 oncoprotein of HPV-16 and HPV-18 was previously evaluated in a small pilot study. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess on a large case series the sensitivity and specificity of E6 oncoprotein as a diagnostic marker for HPV-associated carcinogenesis in OPSCC.

Methods: 137 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed OPSCC were enrolled in two hospitals in Northeast Italy.