Search Results (1,522)

Background: Insomnia is strongly associated with stimulant use across various populations and for a wide range of substances. It represents a significant clinical problem among individuals with stimulant use disorders, yet treatment guidelines for this specific population are limited. This gap underscores the need for a systematic review to analyze the pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for insomnia in individuals with stimulant use disorders. The aim of this review is to determine the efficacy, safety, and limitations of these approaches and their impact on psychiatric symptoms, stimulant use, and adverse events. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted through January–July 2025 using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The review focused on the management of chronic insomnia associated with stimulant use, including substances such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, nicotine, caffeine, and cocaine. The systematic review was structured in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, and identified studies were assessed by title/abstract and full-text evaluation. Results: A total of twenty studies were included in the systematic review. Seven studies examined pharmacological interventions, including modafinil, naltrexone/buprenorphine-naloxone, varenicline, combination NRT, and ramelteon. Thirteen studies investigated non-pharmacological approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Electrical Vestibular Nerve Stimulation (VeNS), maximal strength training, electroacupuncture (EA), and probiotics. The majority of interventions demonstrated positive outcomes in reducing insomnia severity, with some participants achieving non-clinical levels. Commonly reported clinical symptoms related to insomnia included difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, early morning awakening, and sleep dissatisfaction. Conclusions: Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions showed promise. However, the lack of validated guidelines underscores the need for integrated therapeutic approaches that address the complex comorbidity of insomnia, stimulant use, and co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Full article

Metal/composite interfacial interactions are critical to the mechanical performance of Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs). In this study, the feasibility of successively combining Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) and Vacuum Bagging (VB) was investigated, a strategy that has not been reported in the literature for the fabrication of FMLs with 2/1 stacking configuration, using low-cost 3003-H14 aluminum alloy. The substrate was surface modified through mechanical abrasion and chemical etching in an ultrasonic bath with a 0.1 M NaOH solution, varying the exposure time (20, 40, and 60 min). These surfaces were characterized by optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM), conducting both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the two- and three-dimensional surface features associated with pore morphology. Additionally, their effects on interlaminar strength and Mode I failure modes of the adhesive joint at the metal/composite interface were evaluated. Micrographs of the surface variants revealed a systematic evolution of the metallic microstructure. The T-peel tests demonstrated that the microstructural features influenced the interlaminar behavior. The 40 min treatment exhibited the highest initial peak force (26.4 N) and the highest average peel force (12.4 N), with a predominantly cohesive mixed-mode failure, representing the most favorable configuration for maximizing adhesion at the metal/composite interface. Full article

Introduction: Nowadays, there is evidence regarding a beneficial effect of heat on neuromuscular strength and muscle hypertrophy development. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of a 4-week passive sauna bathing program to extreme heat (100 ± 2 °C) as a support for a resistance strength training program on maximal strength and body composition. Methods: 30 young male subjects participated in the study. They were randomly assigned to a Hyperthermia group (HG, n = 14; age: 20.48 (19.12–22–30) years; weight: 76.30 (71.00–79.00) Kg; BMI: 23.92 (22.93–24.87) Kg/m²), or to a Normothermia group (NG, n = 15; age: 19.95 (19.10–21–94) years; weight: 61.70 (59.45–72.90) Kg; BMI: 21.56 (20.42–23.26) Kg/m²). All participants followed the same lower limb strength training program (2 exercises; 4 sets of 10 repetitions at 75% 1RM with progressive loading). Additionally, HG underwent two weekly sessions of exposure to extreme heat in a sauna (100 ± 2 °C and 24 ± 1% relative humidity, four sets of 10 min, 2 days per week). The intervention lasted for 4 weeks, followed by a 4-week deconditioning period. Maximum isometric knee flexion-extension strength, maximum counter-resistance strength, as well as body composition and anthropometric variables were assessed. Results: The HG group significantly increased body weight (p < 0.05) and muscle mass (p < 0.05), while their sum of six skinfolds (Σ6 skinfolds) significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Both groups improved their 1RM squat performance following the intervention program (p < 0.05; HG: r = 0.86; NG: r = 0.89). However, only the HG group continued to improve their squat 1RM after the deconditioning period (p < 0.001; r = 0.93), as well as their leg press 1RM (p < 0.01; r = 0.94). Maximal isometric strength increased only in the NG group at the end of the training program, with a significant increase in knee flexion torque (p < 0.05; r = 0.76). In contrast, the HG group showed significant increases in isometric strength after the deconditioning period in both knee extension (p < 0.05; r = 0.76) and knee flexion (p < 0.05; r = 0.75). Conclusions: A four-week period of passive sauna bathing at extreme heat appears to alter the chronology of strength responses. It also seems to induce favorable responses in terms of strength development and body composition. Full article

Background: The high-intensity demands of CrossFit induce respiratory muscle fatigue, potentially impairing performance via the metaboreflex. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) may mitigate this effect, but evidence in female athletes remains limited. Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of RMT on sport-specific performance and maximal inspiratory pressure (PIMAX) in recreational female CrossFit practitioners. Design: We conducted a parallel-group randomized controlled trial. Setting: The study was conducted in a CrossFit-affiliated gym. Participants: We recruited twenty-nine recreational female practitioners (age: 30.3 ± 7.9 years) with ≥1 year of uninterrupted training who were free from respiratory diseases. Interventions: Participants were randomized to a CrossFit-only group (n = 14) or CrossFit + RMT group (n = 15). Both trained 5 days/week for 6 weeks; the RMT group additionally performed 30 inspiratory efforts at 50% of PIMAX, 5 days/week, with weekly load adjustment. Main Outcome Measures: Primary: Sport-specific performance (total repetitions in a 10-min AMRAP [As Many Rounds As Possible] test). Secondary: PIMAX (cmH₂O). Measurements were taken pre- and post-intervention. Results: Baseline performance and PIMAX were similar between groups. After 6 weeks, the CrossFit + RMT group improved in performance more (Δ = +10.5 ± 10.7 reps, p = 0.03, ηp² = 0.168) than the CrossFit-only group (Δ = +2.3 ± 8.1). PIMAX gains were also greater with RMT (Δ = +19.6 ± 8.4 cmH₂O, p = 0.043, ηp² = 0.148) vs. control (Δ = +10.1 ± 9.7). No adverse events occurred. Conclusions: Adding RMT to CrossFit training enhanced sport-specific performance and inspiratory strength in recreational female practitioners more than CrossFit alone. RMT appears to be a safe and effective complementary strategy for high-intensity functional training. Full article

Background: The multifactorial nature of CrossFit performance remains incompletely understood, particularly regarding sex- and experience-related physiological and biomechanical factors. Methods: Fifteen trained athletes (8 males, 7 females) completed assessments of anthropometry, estimated one-repetition maximums (bench press, back squat, deadlift), squat jump (SJ), maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), ventilatory responses ($\dot{\mathrm{V}}$E), and heart rate (HR). Spearman, Pearson, and partial correlations were calculated with Holm and false discovery rate (FDR) corrections. Results: Males displayed greater body mass, lean and muscle mass, maximal strength, and aerobic capacity than females (all Holm-adjusted p < 0.01). Experienced athletes completed Fran faster than beginners despite broadly similar anthropometric and aerobic profiles. In the pooled sample, WOD time showed moderate negative relationships with estimated 1RM back squat (ρ = −0.54), deadlift (ρ = −0.56), and bench press (ρ = −0.65) before correction; none remained significant after Holm/FDR adjustment, and partial correlations controlling for training years were further attenuated. Conclusions: This exploratory study provides preliminary evidence suggesting that maximal strength may contribute to Fran performance, whereas conventional aerobic measures were less influential. However, given the very small sample (n = 15, 8 males and 7 females) and the fact that no relationships remained statistically significant after correction for multiple testing, the results must be regarded as preliminary, hypothesis-generating evidence only, requiring confirmation in larger and adequately powered studies. Full article

This study aimed to examine the proximal effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) training on shoulder muscle function and subjective discomfort during low-intensity external rotation exercise. Twenty-four healthy adults were randomly assigned to a BFR group or a control group and performed shoulder stabilization exercises with or without BFR. Outcome measures included shoulder external rotation range of motion, maximal isometric strength, muscle endurance, electromyographic activity of the rotator cuff muscles, and perceived discomfort. Both groups demonstrated significant within-group improvements in all outcomes except posterior deltoid and supraspinatus activity (p < 0.05). Between-group comparisons showed significantly greater gains in maximal strength and infraspinatus and teres minor activation in the BFR group than in the control group (p < 0.05), while discomfort and fatigue scores were also higher in the BFR group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that BFR applied at the proximal upper arm can enhance the strength and activation of key rotator cuff muscles even when cuff placement near the shoulder is limited by anatomy. Proximal BFR may serve as an effective intervention for improving shoulder function when high-intensity exercise is contraindicated, although strategies to minimize discomfort are needed to improve clinical feasibility. Full article

The purpose of this study was threefold: (a) to analyze differences in mean force, impulse, mean concentric and eccentric velocity, and peak concentric velocity across six repetitions of the flywheel deadlift exercise, with a particular focus on the first repetition initiated from zero momentum; (b) to explore relationships between these kinetic and kinematic variables and one-repetition maximum (1-RM) performance in the free-weight deadlift; (c) to examine the effects of different flywheel inertial loads on the relationships among mean force (MF), impulse, time under tension (TUT), and velocity, with the aim of identifying the most valid and reliable parameter for flywheel load prescription. Thirteen resistance-trained men (24.7 ± 5.0 y; 82.2 ± 11.7 kg; 1-RM deadlift: 174 ± 24 kg) performed six repetitions of the flywheel deadlift against six inertial loads (0.025 to 0.145 kg∙m²) on a kBox 5 device. Results showed that although the first repetition had 25–30% lower mean concentric velocity and 7–11% lower mean force compared to subsequent repetitions (p < 0.001), it exhibited 4–8% higher impulse due to the 14–20% longer time under tension. MF, velocity, and impulse in the first repetition showed moderate-to-strong correlations with 1-RM (r = 0.58 to 0.85, p < 0.05), particularly at the two higher inertia loads. MF plateaued at moderate inertia loads, while impulse and TUT increased linearly with increasing inertial load and demonstrated the strongest and most consistent relationships with inertial load (r = 0.99 ± 0.01 and 0.97 ± 0.02, p < 0.001), enabling individualized flywheel training prescription. This study highlights the distinct value of the first repetition in flywheel deadlifts and its practical value for both assessment and training. Also, it suggests that impulse and TUT may be used as simple and practical flywheel exercise prescription variables. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aging is characterized by progressive physiological and metabolic decline. Aerobic exercise mitigates age-related impairments, and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor in the NAD⁺ salvage pathway, has emerged as a nutritional intervention to promote healthy aging. This study investigated whether NMN supplementation combined with aerobic exercise provides synergistic benefits on physical performance and metabolic regulation in aged mice. Methods: Forty male C57BL/6J mice, including eight young (8 weeks) and thirty-two aged (85 weeks) mice, were randomly assigned to five groups: young sedentary (YS), aged sedentary (AS), aged with exercise (AE), aged with NMN (ASNMN; 300 mg/kg/day), and aged with combined NMN and exercise (AENMN). Interventions lasted six weeks. Assessments included grip strength, muscle endurance, aerobic capacity, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and indirect calorimetry, followed by biochemical and molecular analyses of NAMPT and SirT1 expression. Results: The AENMN group demonstrated significant improvements in maximal strength and aerobic endurance compared with the AS group (p < 0.05). Both NMN and exercise interventions increased blood NAMPT concentrations, with the highest levels observed in the AENMN group (p < 0.05). SirT1 expression was elevated in the ASNMN and AENMN groups relative to YS (p < 0.05). Glucose tolerance improved in the ASNMN and AENMN groups (p < 0.05). Enhanced energy metabolism in the AENMN group was indicated by increased oxygen consumption, elevated energy expenditure, and reduced respiratory quotient. Conclusions: NMN supplementation, particularly when combined with aerobic exercise, effectively improved aerobic performance, glucose regulation, and systemic energy metabolism in aged mice. These findings suggest that NMN, in synergy with exercise, may serve as a promising nutritional strategy to counteract age-associated metabolic and functional decline. Full article

Atmospheric turbulence severely limits the stability and reliability of free-space optical (FSO) uplinks by inducing wavefront distortions and random intensity fluctuations. This study investigates the use of reinforcement learning (RL) with beacon-based feedback for adaptive beam shaping in a spatial light modulator (SLM)-controlled FSO link. The RL agent dynamically adjusts phase patterns to maximize received signal strength, while the beacon channel provides turbulence estimates that guide the optimization process. Experiments under low, moderate, and high turbulence levels demonstrate that incorporating beacon feedback can enhance link stability in severe conditions, reducing signal variability and suppressing extreme fluctuations. In low-turbulence scenarios, the performance is comparable to non-feedback operation, whereas under high turbulence, beacon-assisted control consistently achieves lower coefficients of variation and improved bit error rate (BER) performance. Under high turbulence replay experiments—where the best-performing RL-learned phase patterns are reapplied without learning—further show that configurations trained with feedback retain robustness, even without real-time turbulence measurements under high turbulence. These results highlight the potential of integrating contextual feedback with RL to achieve turbulence-resilient and stable optical uplinks in dynamic atmospheric environments. Full article

The integration of nanoengineered materials into concrete systems has emerged as a promising strategy for enhancing structural performance and sustainability. This study presents a hybrid experimental-analytical investigation into the use of multilayer graphene as a smart admixture in high-performance concrete. The research combines mechanical testing, microstructural characterization, and a multi-objective optimization model to determine the optimal graphene dosage that maximizes strength gains while minimizing carbon emissions. Concrete specimens incorporating multilayer graphene (ranging from 0.01% to 0.10% by weight of cement) were tested over 7 to 90 days for compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths. Simultaneously, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray analyses revealed crystallinity enhancement, pore densification, and favorable elemental redistribution due to graphene inclusion. A normalized composite objective function was formulated to balance three maximization targets—compressive, tensile, and flexural strength—and one minimization goal—carbon emission. The highest objective score (Z = 1.047) was achieved at 0.10% graphene dosage, indicating the optimal balance of strength performance and environmental efficiency. This dual-framework study not only confirms graphene’s reinforcing effects experimentally but also validates the 0.10% dosage through mathematical scoring. The outcomes position of multilayer graphene as a powerful additive for high-strength, low-carbon concrete, especially suited for infrastructure in hot and arid environments. The proposed optimization approach provides a scalable pathway for performance-based graphene dosing in future innovative concrete formulations. Full article

Binarizing continuous metaheuristics to solve challenging NP-hard binary optimization problems is a fundamental step in adapting continuous algorithms for discrete domains. Binary optimization problems, such as the Set Covering Problem and the 0–1 Knapsack Problem, demand tailored approaches to efficiently explore and exploit the solution space. The process of binarization often introduces complexities, as it requires balancing the transformation of continuous populations into binary solutions while preserving the algorithm’s capability to navigate the search space effectively. In this context, we explore the performance of the Reptile Search Algorithm (RSA), a continuous metaheuristic, applied to these two benchmark problems. To address the binary nature of the problems, a two-step binarization process is implemented, utilizing combinations of transfer functions with binarization rules. This framework enables the RSA to generate binary solutions while leveraging its inherent strengths in exploration and exploitation. Comparative experiments are conducted with Particle Swarm Optimization and the Grey Wolf Optimizer to benchmark the RSA’s performance under similar conditions. These experiments analyze critical factors such as fitness values, convergence behavior, and exploration–exploitation dynamics, providing insights into the effectiveness of different binarization approaches. The results demonstrate that the RSA achieves competitive performance across both problems, highlighting its flexibility and adaptability, which are attributed to its diverse movement equations. Notably, the Z4 transfer function consistently enhances performance for all algorithms, even when paired with less effective binarization rules. This indicates the potential of Z4 as a robust transfer function for binary optimization. The findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate binarization strategies to maximize the performance of continuous metaheuristics in binary domains, paving the way for further advancements in hybrid optimization methodologies. Full article

This paper introduces a novel hybrid metaheuristic optimization algorithm, combining improved formulations of the Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) and the Jaya Algorithm (JA) (HSMJA) with online distributed computing (ODC), referred to as HSMJA-ODC. While HSMJA hybridizes the improved versions of SMA and JA formulations to maximize searchability, ODC significantly reduces the computation time of the optimization process. The proposed HSMJA-ODC algorithm is used for the weight minimization of steel space frames under strength, displacement, and geometric size constraints. The optimization results obtained from three steel frames confirm the efficiency and robustness of the proposed HSMJA-ODC algorithm, which consistently converges on competitively optimized designs in comparison to its rivals. Moreover, distributed computing reduces computation time by more than 80% compared to single-computer implementations. Full article

Online shopping has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by evolving consumer habits and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With increasing demand for quick and efficient product delivery, retailers are turning to advanced storage solutions to support logistics and distribution. High Bay Warehouses (HBW) have emerged as a key solution, offering high-density vertical storage to maximize space utilization. This study focuses on optimizing HBW structures through the use of high-strength steels, particularly HyPer^® Steel grades. By replacing conventional steels such as S350GD with higher-strength alternatives, this study demonstrates the potential to reduce the overall structural weight, lower carbon emissions, and improve cost efficiency, while maintaining equivalent structural performance. The research explores how the conjunction of material optimization and the use of low-carbon steel (XCarb^®) can contribute to more sustainable and efficient storage solutions for the growing demands of modern logistics. Full article

This study addresses critical knowledge gaps in adobe construction by systematically investigating soil mineralogy–additive effectiveness relationships and developing dual-additive optimization strategies for flood sediment valorization. Four Thai soil types—Nakhon Pathom (NPT), Sisaket (SSK), Uttaradit (UTT), and September 2024 Chiang Rai flood sediment (CRI)—were characterized using XRD and EDS analyses. Twelve adobe formulations incorporating rice husk (3.45%) and graduated bentonite concentrations (5–15%) were evaluated for mechanical and thermal properties. UTT soil with balanced mineralogy (42.1% SiO₂, 40.4% Al₂O₃) achieved optimal mechanical performance (3.12 ± 0.11 MPa compressive strength), while CRI demonstrated superior thermal insulation (0.200 ± 0.009 W/m·K). Rice husk systematically enhanced compressive strength across all soils (13.6–82.5% improvement) while reducing thermal conductivity to 0.211–0.278 W/m·K. Dual-additive optimization of CRI enabled application-specific customization: rice husk alone maximized strength (1.34 ± 0.09 MPa), while bentonite combinations optimized thermal performance (0.199 ± 0.015 W/m·K). Microstructural analysis revealed distinct reinforcement mechanisms and matrix densification effects. This research establishes predictive frameworks for material selection based on soil composition, demonstrates viable flood waste valorization pathways, and supports Thailand’s Bio-Circular-Green economic framework through sustainable construction material development. Full article

This paper presents the development and characteristics of geopolymer foams modified with paraffin-based phase change materials (PCMs) encapsulated in diatomite. The aim was to increase both the thermal insulation and heat storage capacity of the foams while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength for construction applications. Eleven variants of composites with different PCM fractions (5–10% by mass) and grain sizes (<1.6 mm to >2.5 mm) were synthesized and tested. The inclusion of PCM encapsulated in diatomite modified the porous structure: the total porosity increased from 6.6% in the reference sample to 19.6% for the 1.6–1.8 mm_10% wt. variant, with pore diameters ranging from ~4 to 280 µm. Thermal conductivity (λ) ranged between 0.090–0.129 W/m·K, with the lowest values observed for composites 2.0–2.5 mm_5–10% wt. (≈0.090–0.091 W/m·K), which also showed high thermal resistance (R ≈ 0.287–0.289 m²·K/W). The specific heat (Cp) increased from 1.28 kJ/kg·K (reference value) to a maximum value of 1.87 kJ/kg·K for the 2.0–2.5 mm_10% mass variant, confirming the effective energy storage capacity of PCM-modified foams. Mechanical tests showed compressive strength values in the range of 0.7–3.1 MPa. The best structural performance was obtained for the 1.6–1.8 mm_10% wt. variant (3.1 MPa), albeit with a higher λ (≈0.129 W/m·K), illustrating the classic trade-off between porosity-based insulation and mechanical strength. SEM microstructural analysis and mercury porosimetry confirmed the presence of mesopores, which determine both thermal and mechanical properties. The results show that medium-sized PCM fractions (1.6–2.0 mm) with moderate content (≈10% by weight) offer the most favorable compromise between insulation and strength, while thicker fractions (2.0–2.5 mm) maximize thermal energy storage capacity. These findings confirm the possibility of incorporating natural PCMs into geopolymer foams to create multifunctional materials for sustainable and energy-efficient building applications. A unique contribution to this work is the use of diatomite as a natural PCM carrier, ensuring stability, compatibility, and environmental friendliness compared to conventional encapsulation methods. Full article