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Abstract: Acetic acid bacteria are single-celled organisms well-known for their ability to convert ethanol into acetic acid. Still, recent research suggests they may harbor another attractive characteristic - the production of proteins with remarkable similarities to sirtuins. Sirtuins have been linked to lifespan extension in various organisms, raising intriguing questions about the potential connection between acetic acid bacteria and the biology of aging. This article delves into the characterization of sirtuin homologs in acetic acid bacteria. Up to three types of sirtuin homologs have been identified in 21% of acetic acid bacteria genomes deposited in NCBI. All three types were present only in the genera Acetobacter and Novacetimonas, which are known to survive in the harshest environmental conditions (high concentrations of acetic acid and ethanol). Interestingly, two types of these sirtuin homologs (SirAAB-L and SirAAB-S) constitute a separate group (SirAAB), distinctive from all other presently known sirtuins. The results obtained in silico thus encourage further studies into the function of these types of sirtuins and their interplay with metabolic pathways in these industrially important bacteria.
Keywords: acetic acid bacteria, Acetobacter, Novacetimonas, aging, sirtuins, SirAAB, SirAAB-L, SirAAB-S
Published in DKUM: 14.02.2025; Views: 0; Downloads: 5
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Abstract: Thanks to rapid technological developments in robotics, various automation technologies are being applied in warehouses today. Order picking, as a key process in warehouse operations, has drawn attentioThis paper presents a systematic literature review exploring the impact of human–robot (HR) systems on older workers in manufacturing and logistics industries, drawing insights into how these systems can be optimally designed to address human factors in four key areas—perceptual, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial—aligning with the goals of Industry 5.0. By analyzing 19 articles selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, we identified both the benefits and challenges that HR systems pose to the aging workforce. We conclude that to achieve Industry 5.0 goals, HR systems must be designed to balance automation with human skills, promoting adaptability and inclusivity tailored to the diverse responses of older workers.n in academia and practice for decades. In addition to many studies dedicated to manual and fully automated order picking, efforts have also been made to study semi-automated warehouses in which humans and robots collaborate. However, these studies mostly focused on system efficiency and ignored ergonomic aspects. Order picking was confirmed as a labor-intensive process in an environment in which workers are at a high risk of developing health problems. Therefore, this study addresses the investigation of physical human working conditions in both manual and robot-assisted order picking systems via real-life laboratory experiments and simulation modeling. We used a motion capture system to assess human working postures when working with and without robot assistance. In addition, we estimated the daily workload by applying the energy expenditure concept. Using simulation experiments, we were able to extend the results to various practical scenarios with different design variables, for example warehouse layouts, order sizes, and human-robot team configuration. Our preliminary results reveal that human-robot collaboration can reduce human workload. Posture evaluation also shows a slight improvement.
Keywords: aging, human–robot systems, manufacturing, logistics, industry 5.0, human-centricity
Published in DKUM: 21.11.2024; Views: 0; Downloads: 8
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Abstract: Introduction: The number of obese people in the world is increasing, as is the number of sarcopenic people among the older adults. Although both states are concerning, they can be positively influenced by selected behavioral factors such as adequate nutrition and physical activity. We were interested in the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity in active older people and the influence of behavioral factors on this phenomenon. Methods: The study included 38 older adults (21 women) with a mean age of 75.3 ± 5.0 years. Sarcopenic parameters were determined with different tests: Handgrip Test, Chair Stand Test, Gait Speed, Timed Up and Go Test, and Short Physical Performance Battery. Body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Physical activity level was measured using accelerometers, and nutritional status was assessed using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment and MEDLIFE Index questionnaire. Results: Of all included active participants (the average number of steps per day was 8,916 ± 3,543), 47.4% of them were obese. Of all included women, 52.4% were obese. Sarcopenic obesity was found in three (7.9%) participants. Nutritional status correlated with strength of lower extremities and physical performance tests (gait speed, Timed Up and Go Test and Short Physical performance battery). Higher number of steps per day positively correlates with physical performance. Discussion: Interestingly, we did not find any correlation between the main obesity parameter such as percent body fat or body mass index (and thus sarcopenic obesity) and any of the selected behavioral factors (physical activity, sedentary behavior, or dietary habits). In conclusion, reaching the recommended levels of physical activity in older adults may not be sufficient to prevent the occurrence of obesity and sarcopenic obesity.
Keywords: aging, physical activity, nutrition, healthy lifestyle, body composition, sarcopenia
Published in DKUM: 27.05.2024; Views: 174; Downloads: 14
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Abstract: Digital technologies can be a key component in helping older adults maintain their autonomy and quality of life in their homes and communities. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the existing literature on the role of assistive digital technologies in promoting a higher quality of life and independent living for older adults by supporting their self-regulation in various aspects of daily living. The review was conducted and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Major electronic databases were searched to identify relevant articles published between 2012 and 2022. A total of 972 articles were identified, of which 19 articles met all inclusion criteria. Results are presented in four categories: (i) types of digital technologies, (ii) quality of life domains, (iii) quality of life benefits, and (iv) technological aspects supporting self-regulation. Our review also showed that successful adoption of assistive technologies depends on older adults’ trust in these technologies and the perceived benefits of technological support. Early involvement of older adults in the development of assistive technologies appears to play an important role in their technological self-efficacy. The limitations of the studies reviewed are discussed, and some general guidelines for future research in this area are suggested.
Keywords: digitalna tehnologija, podporna tehnologija, kakovost življenja, staranje, samouravnavanje, pregledni članek, digital technology, assistive technology, quality of life, aging, self-regulation, scoping review
Published in DKUM: 27.02.2024; Views: 348; Downloads: 8
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Abstract: The accumulation of oxidative damage to DNA and other biomolecules plays an important role in the etiology of aging and age-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative disorders. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is especially sensitive to oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dysfunction resulting from the accumulation of mtDNA damage impairs normal cellular function and leads to a bioenergetic crisis that accelerates aging and associated diseases. Age-related mitochondrial dysfunction decreases ATP production, which directly affects insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells and triggers the gradual development of the chronic metabolic dysfunction that characterizes T2D. At the same time, decreased glucose oxidation in skeletal muscle due to mitochondrial damage leads to prolonged postprandial blood glucose rise, which further worsens glucose homeostasis. ROS are not only highly reactive by-products of mitochondrial respiration capable of oxidizing DNA, proteins, and lipids but can also function as signaling and effector molecules in cell membranes mediating signal transduction and inflammation. Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) located in the inner mitochondrial membrane of various tissues can be activated by ROS to protect cells from mitochondrial damage. Mitochondrial UCPs facilitate the reflux of protons from the mitochondrial intermembrane space into the matrix, thereby dissipating the proton gradient required for oxidative phosphorylation. There are five known isoforms (UCP1-UCP5) of mitochondrial UCPs. UCP1 can indirectly reduce ROS formation by increasing glutathione levels, thermogenesis, and energy expenditure. In contrast, UCP2 and UCP3 regulate fatty acid metabolism and insulin secretion by beta cells and modulate insulin sensitivity. Understanding the functions of UCPs may play a critical role in developing pharmacological strategies to combat T2D. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the protective role of various UCP homologs against age-related oxidative stress in T2D.
Keywords: uncoupling proteins, reactive oxygen species, aging, age-related diseases, diabetes
Published in DKUM: 23.08.2023; Views: 467; Downloads: 46
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