Abstract: The invention provides for exposing an extraocular (i.e., non-ocular) region of a human to light during sleep, which enhances REM sleep. Also provided are devices to carry out the methods. Key timing parameters ensure effective REM enhancement without adversely impacting a subject's circadian clock. The invention provides for improving cognitive function and performance in healthy individuals and in individuals suffering from a disease or disorder in which mental status is compromised.

Abstract: A method for resetting the phase of the human circadian clock and for enhancing alertness and performance in humans is disclosed. The method involves the application of non-solar photic stimulation, in the range of 15 to 150,000 lux, to any non-ocular region of the human body during wakefulness or during sleep. Preferably, the photic stimulation has a wavelength within the visible spectrum (˜400-750 nm). The method can be used to both delay and advance the circadian clock according to a phase response curve (PRC). The method may also be used for acute/immediate enhancement of alertness and performance. The method is applicable to alleviation of problems associated with “jet-lag”, shift work sleep disturbance, and other sleep disturbances involving misalignment of circadian rhythms. The method provides a novel technique for shifting the phase of the circadian clock, and enhancing alertness and performance, using existing, or newly-developed devices.

Abstract: The invention provides for exposing an extraocular (i.e., non-ocular) region of a human to light during sleep which enhances REM sleep. Also provided are devices to carry out the methods. Key timing parameters ensure effective REM enhancement without adversely impacting a subject's circadian clock. The invention provides for improving cognitive function and performance in healthy individuals, and in individuals suffering from a disease or disorder in which mental status is compromised. One embodiment of the invention (100) includes a fiber optics pad (160) attached to a power source, and lamp housing (120) by a fiber optics cable (140).

Abstract: A gas separation system comprising one or more ceramic membranes is described. The system, particularly, the arrangement of the ceramic membranes and/or other polymeric membranes or PSA systems, results in maximum durability of the ceramic membranes.

Abstract: A gas separation system comprising one or more ceramic membranes is described. The system, particularly, the arrangement of the ceramic membranes and/or other polymeric membranes or PSA systems, results in maximum durability of the ceramic membranes.

Abstract: A dross press head is constructed of refractory material. The refractory material may be a vitreous silica based refractory or other suitable refractory material including ceramic material. The refractory head may include reinforcing fibers, which may be stainless steel fibers. The refractory head may be provided with refractory clips or anchor bolts and secured at its upper end to a metal plate for structural strength. One or more spikes may be formed on or mounted to a lower surface of the refractory head for aiding flow of the upper layer of metal recovered from the dross. The spikes may be constructed of refractory material including ceramic material, cast steel, cast iron or hot rolled steel. Spike material may be selected based on the type of dross. The spike may be formed on the head threadably mounted to a supporting rod mounted to the upper metal plate.

Abstract: A method for resetting the phase of the human circadian clock and for enhancing alertness and performance in humans. The method involves the application of non-solar photic stimulation, in the range of 15 to 150,000 lux, to any non-ocular region of the human body during wakefulness or during sleep. Preferably, the photic stimulation has a wavelength within the visible spectrum (.about.400-750 nm). The method can be used to both delay and advance the circadian clock according to a phase response curve (PRC). The method may also be used for acute/immediate enhancement of alertness and performance. The method is applicable to alleviation of problems associated with "jet-lag", shift work sleep disturbance, and other sleep disturbances involving misalignment of circadian rhythms. The method provides a novel technique for shifting the phase of the circadian clock, and enhancing alertness and performance, using existing, or newly-developed devices.

Abstract: The invention is a ceramic solid electrolyte based electrochemical oxygen concentrator cell and the method for fabricating said cell. The cell is based on a doped cerium oxide ceramic solid electrolyte and lanthanum strontium cobaltite ceramic electrodes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a dielectric ceramic having a dielectric constant K, greater than 35, a quality factor, Q, greater than 9,000 at 4 GH.sub.z and a reduction of the firing temperature to less than about 1350.degree. C. The dielectric ceramic consists essentially of a sintered mixture of about 35 to 55 mole percent ZrO.sub.2, about 30 to 50 mole percent TiO.sub.2, 5 to about 22.5 mole percent SnO.sub.2, about 0.5 to 10 mole percent ZnO, and 0.3 to about 2.5 mole percent CuO.