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Objective: Adipose tissue stores lipids necessary for the maintenance of nutritional homeostasis. It is also an endocrine organ that reacts to changes in inflammation and energy status. Capsaicin, the principal bioactive compound in red pepper, has garnered significant attention for its reported anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the influence and most efficacious dose of capsaicin on the expression of lipid metabolism-related inflammatory proteins and the inhibition of adipocyte cell differentiation. Materials and Methods: Cell viability analysis was performed using CCK-8, cell differentiation was assessed using Oil Red O, and gene expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPa), adiponectin, leptin, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nuclear factor kappa B1 (NF-κB1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1), and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) were evaluated using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism 5. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare quantitative data between the groups. Results: Capsaicin suppressed preadipocyte-to-adipocyte differentiation and mitigated the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly at low concentrations. Capsaicin effectively suppressed adiponectin levels at all concentrations but decreased leptin levels at lower concentrations (0.5 µM and 1 µM). Capsaicin stimulated the expressions of SIRT1 and TRPV-1 in adipocytes. According to our findings, the most effective capsaicin dose for the regulation of SIRT1 and TRPV-1 expressions appears to be 20 µM. Conclusion: Capsaicin's effect on proteins regulating adipogenesis is not dose-related, but its inhibitory effect on adiposity-dependent inflammation was more pronounced at low concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractEarly learners experience various difficulties when learning foreign languages. Augmented reality technology can support learning environments and foreign language vocabulary teaching by attracting the attention of early learners. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of Augmented Reality (AR) technology supported English language learning activities on preschool children with the effects of traditional activities (presentation, lecture, question-answer). In this study, embedded mixed method was used. The sample of the study consisted of 44 five-year-old preschool children (19 boys, 25 girls). Color knowledge test, mood scale, observation, and interview forms were used as data collection tools. As a result of the study, it was concluded that AR-supported English learning activities were more effective than traditional activities on students’ English color vocabulary levels. The children were very happy and they had fun during the experimental process. According to the results of classroom observations, children made weekly progress in cognitive, affective and social/language categories. Implications are discussed in terms of pedagogical insights, practices for AR supported English language learning in preschool, and further research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]