Investigation of proapoptotic and cytotoxic effects of 2-aminobenzothiazole on human laryngeal carcinoma cells.

OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we investigated the effects of 2-aminobenzothiazole application on human laryngeal carcinoma cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Human larynx epidermoid carcinoma (HEp-2) (ATCC® CCL-23™) cells were purchased from American Type Culture Collection (ATCC, USA). Human larynx epidermoid carcinoma HEp-2 cells were cultured in complete Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS) (10%) and penicillin/streptomycin (1%) in a CO2 (5%) incubator under standard cell culture conditions. 2-aminobenzothiazole was prepared, and further dilutions ranging from 3.13 to 100 µM were prepared in fresh culture DMEM. HEp-2 cells on 96 well plates were incubated with the prepared dilutions of 2-aminobenzothiazole for 24, 48, and 72 hours. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test performed cytotoxicity evaluation and viability percentages. The annexin-V staining technique detected 2-aminobenzothiazole-triggered apoptosis of HEp-2 cells. The activated caspases 3/7 on HEp-2 cells after 2-aminobenzothiazole exposure were evaluated with flow cytometric analysis. The membrane potential changing of HEp-2 cells was measured following the Muse™ MitoPotential kit manufacturer instructions. RESULTS: MTT cytotoxicity test results showed that the viability of human laryngeal carcinoma cells decreased with an increase in the application of 2-aminobenzothiazole for 24 hours. The highest growth inhibition by 2-aminobenzothiazole for short-term application of 24 hours was detected at the highest concentration of 2-aminobenzothiazole (100 µM). The results underline that the cytotoxic effect of 2-aminobenzothiazole is dose-dependent. Cytotoxicity test results for an application time of 48 hours showed that the cytotoxicity of 2-aminobenzothiazole is dose-dependent on HEp-2 cells. The required dose of 2-aminobenzothiazole to decrease the cell viability to 50 percent has been 9-fold augmented. Annexin-V findings showed that after exposure to IC50 concentration of 2-aminobenzothiazole for 24 hours, HEp-2 cells underwent the early apoptotic stage (25.99%) and late apoptotic (16.69%), whereas 56.93% of the treated cells were alive. Only 0.39% of 2-aminobenzothiazole treated cells were necrotic. All study results showed that 2-aminobenzothiazole triggered apoptosis on HEp-2 cells with a percentage of total apoptotic cells 42.62 compared to untreated HEp-2 cells. Caspase 3/7 activation results showed that only 0.65% of control HEp-2 cells were with activated caspase 3/7, and 99.35% live cells. The analysis data from the Muse cell analyzer revealed that the percentage of cells with intact mitochondrial membranes was 21.30 after 2-aminobenzothiazole application, and 79.9% were cells with depolarized mitochondrial membranes. It has been understood that the depolarization of the inner mitochondrial membrane has been considered a dysfunction in mitochondria as a sign of apoptosis and drug toxicity. CONCLUSIONS: Based on all study findings, 2-aminobenzothiazole has cytotoxicity on human laryngeal carcinoma cells in a dose and time-dependent manner. That means that it decreased viability via inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis. Consequently, it was concluded that 2-aminobenzothiazole has good potential to lead to cytotoxicity and apoptosis on human laryngeal carcinoma cells and, after deeper in vitro and in vivo investigations, can be a good candidate for designing anticancer drugs with high efficiency.

Effects of ceramide C2 application on human laryngeal carcinoma cells: a cell culture study.

OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we investigated the effects of Ceramide C2 application on human laryngeal carcinoma cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Human larynx epidermoid carcinoma HEp-2 (ATCC® CCL-23™) cells were purchased from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC, USA). Human larynx epidermoid carcinoma HEp-2 cells were cultured in complete Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS) (10%) and penicillin/streptomycin (1%) in a CO2 (5%) incubator under standard cell culture conditions. Ceramide C2 was prepared, and further dilutions ranging from 3.13 to 100 µM were prepared in a fresh culture medium. Cells on 96 well plates were exposed to the prepared concentrations of ceramide C2 for 24 and 48 hours. Cytotoxicity evaluation was performed by MTT. Apoptosis profiles of HEp-2 cells were detected by annexin-V analysis. The activated caspases 3/7 on HEp-2 cells after ceramide C2 exposure were evaluated with flow cytometric analysis. The morphological changes on HEp-2 cells caused by ceramide C2 were evaluated by staining with phalloidine and acridine orange via confocal microscopy. For the Wound Healing Assay, HEp-2 cells were cultured in 6 well-plates until they became confluent. RESULTS: MTT cytotoxicity test findings revealed that the viability of human laryngeal carcinoma cells decreased with the increased application of ceramide C2 for 24 hours compared to untreated (control) cells. The highest growth inhibition by ceramide C2 for short-term application for 24 hours was detected at the highest concentration of ceramide C2 (100 µM). Annexin-V findings showed that 98.97 of HEp-2 cells were alive, and 1.63% were detected as early apoptosis for the control group. The results showed that ceramide C2 triggered apoptosis on HEp-2 cells with a percentage of total apoptotic cells of 61,40 compared to untreated HEp-2 cells. Cysteine proteases (caspases) 3/7 activation percentages of HEp-2 cells exposed to ceramide C2 for 24 hours were compared to control cells, and the morphology of HEp-2 cells was changed with clear apoptotic signs that underlined the cytotoxicity and pro-apoptotic activity of ceramide C2. Scratch Assay assessed the migration capability of HEp-2 cells before and after the exposure to ceramide C2. It showed that ceramide C2 reduced human laryngeal carcinoma cells' migration capability and proliferation for 24 hours. CONCLUSIONS: Based on all study findings, it can be considered that short-chain ceramide C2 exerted cytotoxicity on human laryngeal carcinoma cells in a dose and time-dependent manner and reduced the viability via inducing caspase-dependent apoptosis. The overall effect might be derived from the elevated intracellular ceramide levels by the exogenous application of ceramide C2. Consequently, it was concluded that ceramide C2 has good potential to cause cytotoxicity and apoptosis in human laryngeal carcinoma cells and, after deeper in vitro and in vivo investigations, can be a good candidate for designing anti-cancer drugs with high efficiency.

Efficacy of butterbur in allergic rhinitis: a cell culture study.

OBJECTIVE: The study aims to define butterbur's impact on nasal cells' viability and proliferation. After topically administering butterbur to the nasal epithelial cells, research has been done to see if butterbur has any harmful effect on the nasal cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens of healthy primary nasal epithelium were collected from the subjects and incubated in cell culture in due course of septoplasty. After implementing 2.5 µM butterbur in cultured cells, cell viability was defined via trypan blue assay, and proliferation was defined via the XTT method. The number of total cells, viability, and proliferation was defined. XTT (2, 3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulphophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide) experiments can be used to evaluate cellular toxicity. RESULTS: The findings of the XTT experiment reveal no harm to nasal cells after topical implementation of butterbur. No significant change in the proliferation of the cells, no matter what the doses are. There was no cytotoxic effect on the primary nasal cells at the end of 24 hours of implementation, and no side effects were found. There was no difference in cells' viability between the experimental group with butterbur application and the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Cytotoxicity on nasal cells was not observed after the butterbur application. Even if there have been some indications of liver toxicity, butterbur can be suggested as a safe option for seasonal allergic rhinitis. Further studies related to the toxicity of topical butterbur are also recommended, even though this study indicates no cytotoxicity from the topical application on nasal cells.

Is tannic acid a promising option in local treatment of nasal diseases?

OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effects of tannic acid on viability and proliferation of nasal cells after topical application. It was also evaluated whether tannic acid served as an alternative treatment agent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Collected primary nasal epithelium from healthy people who had undergone septoplasty operations were incubated in cell culture. Following the implementation of 2.5 µM tannic acid in cultured cells, both the number of total cells and their viability were measured using the trypan blue assay, while proliferation was assessed through the XTT method. The XTT method, which involves using "2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulphophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide", is a reliable means of determining cellular toxicity. RESULTS: XTT experiment results showed that there was no harm was detected to nasal cells after tannic acid's topical implementation. There were no significant changes in cell proliferation; moreover, no matter what the doses were. Additionally, no cytotoxic effects were detected on nasal cells' primary culture at "the end of the 24 hours of implementation". There was no side effect of it, either. CONCLUSIONS: According to the research, the application of tannic acid topically did not result in any harmful effects on the nasal cell culture. Tannic acid's potential anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to decrease Th2-related cytokines suggest that it may be beneficial for patients with rhinosinusitis or allergic rhinitis, pending confirmation through clinical trials. Additionally, if clinical trials confirm its effectiveness, tannic acid may be useful in healing wounds for patients undergoing septorhinoplasty.

Septal extension graft use in the treatment of alar collapse.

OBJECTIVE: In our study, we showed that the septal extension graft (SEG) technique, which we applied for nasal projection in rhinoplasty surgery, increases the tension of the lateral cartilage (LC) and alar structures. We also demonstrated that nasal congestion could be treated by applying this technique in patients with nasal obstruction due to bilateral dynamic alar collapse. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study was conducted retrospectively on 23 patients with nasal obstruction due to alar collapse. Bilateral dynamic nasal collapse and (+) Cottle test was present in all patients. Nasal lateral wall tissue was also found flaccid on nasal palpation and collapsed to the extent of obstruction on deep inspiration. Standard septal extension graft (SEG) and tongue-in-groove techniques were applied to all patients. RESULTS: Septal cartilage was used for SEG in all patients. No complaints of nasal obstruction on deep inspiration were noted by the patients at six months postoperative follow-up, and Cottle tests were negative. The patients' mean respiratory score was 152 postoperatively, compared to 66.5 preoperatively. This difference was statistically significant using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test (p<0.001). In evaluating postoperative cosmetic appearance due to nasal tip projection (NTP) and cephalic rotation changes, 16 men and four women reported that it was better, while two men felt that there was no change. One woman reported that her cosmetic appearance was worse than before; a revision surgery was performed for her at seven months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: This method is effective for patients with bilateral nasal collapse and thick-short columella. With the applied surgery, the caudal edge of the LC diverges from the septum, alar region tension and resistance increase, the columella increases in length, nasal projection increases, and the vestibule cross-sectional area is enlarged. In this way, a significant increase in nasal vestibular volume was obtained.

Efficacy and toxicity of anise oil as a potential topical wound healer: a cell culture study.

OBJECTIVE: We studied the cytotoxic effects of topical anise oil on NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells using a cell culture assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS: NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells were grown in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) supplemented with fetal bovine serum (10%) and penicillin/streptomycin under standard cell culture conditions in a humidified incubator containing 5% carbon dioxide. For the MTT cytotoxicity experiment, NIH/3T3 cells were plated in triplicate at a concentration of 3x103 per well in 96-well plates and incubated for 24 hours. The cells were treated with anise oil concentrations ranging from 3.13 to 100 µM, and the plates were cultured for 24, 48, and 72 hours under standard cell culture conditions. For assessment by confocal microscopy, NIH/3T3 cells were seeded on sterilized coverslips in 6-well plates at a concentration of 105 cells per well in triplicate. For 24 hours, cells were treated with 100 µM of anise oil. Three wells that were not treated with anise oil served as the control group. RESULTS: The MTT findings demonstrated that anise oil is not cytotoxic to NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells. Anise oil stimulated cell growth and triggered cell division at all three incubation intervals of 24, 48, and 72 hours. The maximum growth was obtained in the applied highest concentration of 100 µM anise oil. At doses of 25, 50, and 100 µM, there was also a statistically significant improvement in cell viability. At 72 hours of incubation, dosages of 6.25 and 12.5 micro of anise oil were shown to be viability-inducing for NIH/3T3 cells. In the confocal microscopy pictures, it was found that anise oil was not cytotoxic on NIH/3T3 cells at the applied maximal dose. The experimental group of NIH/3T3 cells exhibited the same cell morphology as the untreated control group. In both sets of NIH/3T3 cells, the nucleus was round and undamaged, and the cytoskeleton was determined to be compact. CONCLUSIONS: Anise oil is not cytotoxic on NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells and initiates cell growth. Anise oil could be used topically to enhance wound healing after surgical procedures if clinical trials will confirm experimental data.

Bromelain: a candidate to enhance wound healing after endonasal surgeries.

OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we investigated the topical bromelain's cytotoxic effects on mouse fibroblast NIH/3T3 cells via cell culture study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cell culture study, Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) with fetal bovine serum (FBS, 10%) and penicillin/streptomycin (1%) was used as a cell growth medium for NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cells. MTT test was performed in 96-well plates seeded with NIH/3T3 cells 5x103/well and under standard cell culture conditions. Bromelain doses of 3.13 to 100 µM were administered to the wells and incubated for 24, 48, and 72 hours in the same cell culture conditions. For Confocal microscopic evaluation, NIH/3T3 cells were plated on cover slips in 6-well plates (105 cells/well) and treated with 100 µM concentration of bromelain for 24 h. Untreated cells were used as controls. RESULTS: MTT results showed that bromelain is not cytotoxic on mouse fibroblast NIH/3T3 cells. All three incubation times of 24, 48, and 72 hours bromelain initiated cell growth. A statistically significant rise in cell growth was detected in the only applied highest dose of 100 µM bromelain for all incubation times except for 24 hours. The nontoxic effect was further investigated by using confocal microscopy by applying the highest bromelain dose of 100 µM to NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cells. Confocal micrographs showed that bromelain did not change the morphology of mouse fibroblast cells at the incubation time of 24h. In untreated cells and bromelain-treated cells, the nucleus of NIH/3T3 cells was undamaged and compact, and the cytoskeleton was fusiform and non-fragmented. CONCLUSIONS: Bromelain is not cytotoxic on mouse fibroblast NIH/3T3 cells and enhances cell growth. If clinical trials will confirm this, it is possible that bromelain will be used topically in humans to enhance wound healing, in rhinosinusitis and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and endonasal surgeries due to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Investigation of the effect of the curcumin component as an alternative to the local treatment of nasal diseases.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to define the impacts of curcumin on nasal cell viability and proliferation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens of healthy primary nasal epithelium were collected and incubated in cell culture during septorhinoplasty from people who signed a consent form. After implementing 2.5 µM curcumin in cultured cells, cell viability was defined via trypan blue assay, and proliferation was defined via the XTT method. The number of total cells, viability, and proliferation was defined. XTT (2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulphophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide) experiments can be used to evaluate cellular toxicity. RESULTS: The results revealed no harm to nasal cells after the topical implementation of curcumin. There was no significant change in the proliferation of the cells related to 24 hours of implementation. There was no adverse effect of using curcumin on the cell viability, either. CONCLUSIONS: No cytotoxic effect on nasal cells has been observed after applying topically implemented curcumin. Curcumin could be used topically for an alternative treatment for allergic rhinitis as it has anti-inflammatory and immune response modulatory effects if clinical trials will confirm experimental data.

A new preservation technique for dehumping the dorsum.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to offer a new preservation strategy for dehumping the dorsum by using a variation of the cartilage push-down (Ishida) technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three hundred patients (42 males and 258 females) had surgical procedures. All procedures were closed-surgery-type, primary-case procedures performed through a closed incision. Low cartilaginous septal strip resection was performed on 269 individuals, whereas high septal strip resection was performed on the remaining 31 patients. The bony cap is shielded as a separate unit and preserved, so protected from any potential damage. The cartilage roof is separated from the bone roof and lowered while wearing the bony cap component. As a result, less concealment is required. However, it is ineffective on dorsal profiles that are sharp or S-shaped, as opposed to flat. Thus, the modified cartilage push-down with bony cap rasping procedure can be carried out. The sharp hump on the bony crown of the skull is smoothed out and filled. Therefore, the bony cap above the central cartilage roof is much thinner. Because the hump is less likely to appear again, concealment is unnecessary. A median of 8.5 months was spent following-up (6-14 months). RESULTS: According to our method, among men (n=42), the hump size ranged from minor (n=5) to medium (n=25) to big (n=12). There were 258 women, 88 of whom had a little hump, 160 had a medium hump, and 10 had a huge hump. Indicative of surgeon satisfaction with low cartilaginous septal strip excision vs. high septal strip resection include the following: with a total of 269 patients, 35 males, and 234 females had low cartilaginous septal strip resections, with 98 and 96% success rates, respectively, for the surgeons. There were 31 patients, seven men and 24 women, who all underwent high septal strip resections, with a 98% and 96% success rate for the surgeons. It was found that there was a correlation between the size of the hump and the level of satisfaction felt by its bearers. Rates of male satisfaction with humps ranged from 100% for little humps to 100% for medium humps to 99% for huge humps. Satisfaction percentages among women ranged from 98% in the case of little humps to 96% among medium humps and 95% among large humps. CONCLUSIONS: Our technique of modification of the cartilage push-down (Ishida)1 method is applied for dehumping the dorsum. High satisfaction percentages were obtained from the patients and surgeons. This technique may be a good option for patients who need dehumping.

An evaluation of ketoprofen as an intranasal anti-inflammatory agent.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of ketoprofen when locally applied to tissue-cultured nasal epithelium. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Healthy primary nasal epithelial cells were grown in a tissue culture medium. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay was used to evaluate cytotoxicity. Markers of cellular injury revealed by the MTT assay include fragmentation of DNA, condensed nuclei, and changes affecting the cellular outer membrane and cytoskeleton. Epithelial cells at body temperature in cell culture were exposed over a 24-hour period to ketoprofen. Following the MTT assay, the confocal microscopic examination was performed. The extent to which epithelial cells remained capable of proliferating was evaluated by inducing a scratch injury, waiting for the repair to occur, and then examining the result with the ordinary light microscope. RESULTS: Topically applied ketoprofen does not affect the viability of tissue-cultured nasal epithelial cells within a 24-hour period. Furthermore, there were no cellular morphological alterations observed which would indicate toxicity from ketoprofen. In the scratch assay, the cells regained a normal confluent appearance within 24 hours. Thus, ketoprofen neither increases nor alters the rate at which nasal epithelial cells proliferate. CONCLUSIONS: Ketoprofen, when applied topically for 24 hours to nasal epithelial cells in cell culture, does not cause any alterations in cellular appearance which would suggest impairment of the ability to proliferate or indicate a cytotoxic effect. Extrapolating from these results, it appears acceptable to use ketoprofen topically within the nose in cases of rhinosinusitis (acute or chronic) or nasal pain since there is minimal risk of local toxic injury.

Investigation of ideal ointment combination to use in septorhinoplasty or nasal flap surgeries.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to create an ideal ointment combination to provide fast wound healing with the highest patient comfort after nasal surgery and nasal flap surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were included. The flap survival method was used. The rats' healing process was evaluated in all groups. After having the same surgical procedure, the following ointments were applied to flap borders twice a day for seven days in each of the groups. In group 1 (Control, n=7), Dexpanthenol 5% (Dex); in group 2, Dex, Ciprofloxacin 0.5 % (Cip) and Ephedrine hydrochloride 1% (Eph); in group 3, Dex+Cip+Eph and Ketoprofen 2.5% (Ket) was applied. On the seventh postoperative day, the size of the necrosis on the flap was evaluated. RESULTS: Median necrotic areas on skin flaps were 36.00% sq mm in group 1, 23.00% sq mm in group 2, and 5.00% sq mm in group 3. Flap necrosis areas on skin flaps were group 3

Efficacy and safety of a hypertonic nasal wash solution containing sea algae extracts in patients that underwent surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum and radiofrequency turbinate volume reduction.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of a Hypertonic Seawater Solution (2.3% NaCl) containing brown and blue-green Algae (HSS-A) in comparison to Isotonic Saline Solution (ISS) regarding the improvement of nasal breathing in patients that have undergone surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum and radiofrequency turbinate volume reduction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 101 individuals were enrolled in the study (HSS-A: 57; ISS: 44). Nasal breathing was evaluated using a Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) measurement device at four timepoints: prior to surgical intervention (up to 30 days pre-surgery) and at the 2nd, 10th and 20th postoperative days. On the 20th postoperative day, patients also answered a Nasal Surgical Questionnaire (NSQ) evaluating breathing ability and overall satisfaction from the use of both nasal sprays. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in PNIF measurements between groups at different points. On the 20th postoperative day, NSQ analysis showed that ISS-treated patients had more frequently moderate nasal bleeding compared to the HSS-A group (85.7% vs. 14.3%, p=0.038). No other statistically significant differences were observed between groups. When NSQ parameters were evaluated in a binary mode, a trend for reduced crusting scores was seen in the HSS-A group (15.9% vs. 35.5% in ISS, p=0.053). No safety concerns were reported throughout the study. CONCLUSIONS: In patients that have undergone surgical correction of a deviated nasal septum and radiofrequency turbinate volume reduction, PNIF values did not differ significantly in patients receiving HSS-A and ISS solutions. Nasal bleeding was more frequent in ISS patients versus HSS-A. Overall, both solutions provided symptomatic relief and use satisfaction in the absence of side effects.

Is G. cambogia a promising treatment? Effects on cultured nasal epithelial cells.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of applying Garcinia cambogia to cultured human nasal epithelial cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cell culture was set up consisting of human primary nasal epithelial cells harvested during septorhinoplasty from volunteers. The cells came from individuals with no history of rhinosinusitis. One assay for assessing cytotoxicity in cell culture utilizes MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide). This method allows visualization of fragmented DNA, condensation of nuclei and changes to the external cellular membrane or cytoskeleton. Our study employed this method. Nasal epithelial cells at 37°C were exposed in culture to G. cambogia for a period of 24 hours. Afterwards an MTT assay was used in conjunction with confocal microscopy to assess evidence of toxicity. The proliferative capability of the nasal epithelial cells was also evaluated by inducing a scratch injury to cultured cells followed by light microscopic examination. RESULTS: Testing for cytotoxicity in this manner indicates that G. cambogia does not appear harmful to cultured nasal epithelial cells when applied directly. The cells exposed to this plant extract were still fully viable 24 hours afterwards. There was no increase in viability at the level of statistical significance. It was noted, however, that proliferation did increase slightly within the exposure period. The MTT assay and confocal microscopy confirm these findings. Under confocal microscopic examination, a compact morphology with unaltered nuclear and cytoskeletal appearances was observed. Thus, there is no evidence suggesting viability is impaired or that cytotoxicity occurs. Ordinary light microscopic examination showed the area denuded of cells had become re-covered completely within 24 hours in the cultures where G. cambogia had been applied. The result suggests that exposure to G. cambogia has no significant effect in terms of stimulating or inhibiting cellular proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: G. cambogia may offer clinical benefit as a supplementary topical treatment for inflammation of the nose and sinuses, as seen in chronic and acute rhinosinusitis, or nasal polyps. The plant appears to increase nasal epitheliocytic proliferation slightly, as revealed by the MTT assay. There were no indications of a cytotoxic effect on epithelial cells of the nose.

Efficacy of nasal stimulants on interpersonal communication - a narrative review.

The aim of this paper is to review the use of nasal stimulants in interpersonal communication. The literature survey was performed from PubMed, ProQuest Central database of Anadolu University, and Google Scholar. Throughout history, various materials have been used as nasal stimulants to communicate and socialize intensively. Snuff is tobacco inhaled into the nostrils. It goes through the nasal mucosa into the blood and affects the neural system. Maras Powder is also a smokeless tobacco type common in the southeast of Turkey, especially in Gaziantep and Maras, which gave its name to the product. Cocaine is made from the coca plant, and it can be in the form of powder and rock. The rock one is also known as crack. It passes through the nostrils and is absorbed in the blood, causing paranoias, sleeplessness, extreme energy, and more confidence. When oxytocin is said, some positive words come to mind, such as socializing, relationships, feeling of trust, and understanding. It is a hormone and neurotransmitter. Increasing interpersonal communication in the shortest time is an important issue today. Online meetings, the ability of different people to work on the same file simultaneously over the computer, cause individuals to distance themselves from each other and decrease communication among them. Despite being in the same social environment, friends often communicate with others with their smartphones instead of having face-to-face relations. To increase interpersonal communication experience, events involving alcohol take is the mostly commonly used one. Nasal snuff, cocaine, crack, and oxytocin abolish self-control which affects interpersonal communication negatively at the end of the day.

Efficacy and toxicity of Anatolian propolis on healthy nasal epithelial cells.

OBJECTIVE: In our study we aimed to evaluate the effects of applying propolis topically to epithelial cells of the nasal cells, to discover whether this causes any toxic effect upon the cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples of healthy human primary nasal epithelium harvested during septoplasty from volunteers were incubated in cell culture. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays may be utilized when assessing cellular damage (toxicity), as evidenced by DNA fragmentation, nuclear condensation, alteration in the outer plasma membrane and cytoskeletal alteration. This was the method used in the study. Cultured epithelial cells were incubated with propolis (Bee&You) for 24 hours at 37°C. The MTT assay was then performed, and the cell morphology was examined by confocal microscopy. In addition, via wound healing assay, cellular proliferation was assessed by the artificial scratch method followed by light microscopy. RESULTS: MTT assay results showed that the primary nasal cells were not affected by the topical application of propolis for 24 hours. All of the applied doses not changed significantly the viability of the cells. The agent was not found to be cytotoxic to the primary nasal cells in the application time of 24 hours. Our confocal microscopy findings supported the MTT findings. According to the confocal images, control cells that were not treated with test agent were with compact morphology and undamaged fusiform cell shape and nucleus. In test group of nasal cells, Propolis was found not to be cytotoxic on the cellular morphology and not changed the cells. When evaluating the results from the wound healing assay, the clear area of scratch obtained at the start of incubation (0th) was closed totally with the proliferated primary nasal cells after incubation of 24 hours with propolis. These findings are supported by our MTT findings that imply to the slight induce of proliferation of the primary cells by Propolis. CONCLUSIONS: Topically applied propolis did not have a cytotoxic effect on nasal epithelium cells. Considering its antibacterial and antioxidant effects, it has been concluded that topical application in sinonasal inflammatory diseases (e.g., acute and chronic rhinosinusitis) may have an auxiliary effect in treatment. Moreover, there is a slight induce of proliferation of the primary cells by propolis which may help wound healing in septal surgeries and epistaxis.

Assessment of olfactory function by Sniffin' sticks in bakery workers exposed to flour dust.

OBJECTIVE: This study used the Sniffin' Sticks test battery to evaluate olfactory function in employees of a bakery exposed to flour dust. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study enrolled 43 individuals with exposure (i.e., to flour) plus 41 healthy volunteers as controls. Olfactory function was assessed in these subjects through the use of the Sniffin' Sticks test battery. The overall score was calculated by adding up the scores for each of the 12 separate odors. A score of 6 or less was deemed anosmia, from 7 to 10 hyposmia, and a score of 11 or 12 was taken to indicate no impairment of olfaction. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference between the scores obtained in the exposure group (10.09±2.29) and the control group (10.73±2.07), the exposure group having a lower score (p<0.05). Within the exposure group, men and women did not score differently (p>0.05). Furthermore, in this group, the overall score did not correlate significantly with age, sex, length of employment, or use of tobacco or alcohol use (p>0.05). Using the scheme employed in this study, 9.3% of the exposed workers were anosmic, compared to 9.8% in the controls, whereas 34.9% of baker workers were hyposmic, compared to just 14.6% of the controls. Thus, our study shows that impairment of the ability to smell was present in 44.2% of individuals exposed occupationally to flour dust. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that being exposed to flour dust reduces the ability to smell normally. In order to minimize the impact of being exposed, workplaces should ensure adequate ventilation and provide workers with protective facemasks.

The impact of Allergic Rhinitis in clinical practice: An International Survey.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a frequent disease caused by an IgE-mediated inflammation of the nose and characterized by typical symptoms. Diagnostic workup is directed to document the production of specific IgE (sensitization). Clinical management aims to relieve symptoms, resolve allergic inflammation, use medications, and potentially induce allergen tolerance, using allergen immunotherapy (AIT). The current survey was conducted in 17 International ear nose throat experts using a questionnaire with 20 questions concerning the practical management of AR patients. It was administered in the 2020 summer. The large majority (94%) of participants use the ARIA classification in clinical practice. On average, subjects with suspected AR represent half of the patients who turn to the ENT experts; 80% have the confirmed diagnosis. Most of the experts use both cutaneous and serum assay to document IgE production. Antihistamines are prescribed in 59% of AR patients, intranasal corticosteroids in 69%, non-adrenergic decongestants in 88%, nasal lavage in 88%, and AIT in 22%. About 68% of AR patients had turbinate hypertrophy, which requires surgery in 62% (mostly surgical decongestion). In conclusion, the current International Survey demonstrated that AR is a common disorder worldwide, the diagnostic workup is mainly based on IgE assessment, and the therapeutic approach is also based on non-pharmacological remedies.

The management of chronic rhinosinusitis in clinical practice: An International Survey.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common disease and is currently classified in two main phenotypes: CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP). A panel of international experts conducted the present survey. A questionnaire, containing 25 questions, was completed by each member of the panel. About half of patients with suspected CRS had confirmed diagnosis. CRSwNP affected 31% of CRS patients. Endoscopy and CT were ever performed. Rhinitis and asthma were frequent comorbidities. Intranasal corticosteroids were prescribed on average in 86% of patients. Nonadrenergic compounds were prescribed by 71% of experts. Surgery for CRSwNP was performed in about half of patients; repeated intervention occurred in about one/third. In conclusion, the current survey demonstrated that CRS requires thorough diagnostic work-up, and the most common therapeutic approach is mainly based on intranasal corticosteroids, non-adrenergic decongestants, and surgery.

Is it possible to define the ideal lips?

SUMMARY: The lips are an essential component of the symmetry and aesthetics of the face. Cosmetic surgery to modify the lips has recently gained in popularity, but the results are in some cases disasterous. In this review, we describe the features of the ideal lips for an individual's face. The features of the ideal lips with respect to facial anatomy, important anatomical landmarks of the face, the facial proportions of the lips and ethnic and sexual differences are described. The projection and relative sizes of the upper and lower lips are as significant to lip aesthetics as the proportion of the lips to the rest of the facial structure. Robust, pouty lips are considered to be sexually attractive by both males and females. Horizontal thirds and the golden ratio describe the proportions that contribute to the beauty and attractiveness of the lips. In young Caucasians, the ideal ratio of the vertical height of the upper lip to that of the lower lip is 1:1.6. Blacks, genetically, have a greater lip volume. The shape and volume of a person's lips are of great importance in the perception of beauty by humans. The appearance of the lips in part determines the attractiveness of a person's face. In females, fuller lips in relation to facial width as well as greater vermilion height are considered to be attractive.

EAACI Position paper on the standardization of nasal allergen challenges.

Nasal allergen challenge (NAC) is an important tool to diagnose allergic rhinitis. In daily clinical routine, experimentally, or when measuring therapeutic success clinically, nasal allergen challenge is fundamental. It is further one of the key diagnostic tools when initiating specific allergen immunotherapy. So far, national recommendations offered guidance on its execution; however, international divergence left many questions unanswered. These differences in the literature caused EAACI to initiate a task force to answer unmet needs and find a consensus in executing nasal allergen challenge. On the basis of a systematic review containing nasal allergen challenges of the past years, task force members reviewed evidence, discussed open issues, and studied variations of several subjective and objective assessment parameters to propose a standardized way of a nasal allergen challenge procedure in clinical practice. Besides an update on indications, contraindications, and preparations for the test procedure, main recommendations are a bilaterally challenge with standardized allergens, with a spray device offering 0.1 mL per nostril. A systematic catalogue for positivity criteria is given for the variety of established subjective and objective assessment methods as well as a schedule for the challenge procedure. The task force recommends a unified protocol for NAC for daily clinical practice, aiming at eliminating the previous difficulty of comparing NAC results due to unmet needs.