Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for map matching probe data to map elements. Methods may include: receiving a plurality of probe data points, where each probe data point includes location information associated with the probe apparatus and time information associated with the location information; establishing locations of the probe data points of a probe apparatus temporally sequenced along a path; establishing a radius around each of the probe data points; identifying map elements found within each radius; filtering probe data points to obtain a subset of probe data points; establishing correspondences between map elements found within each radius of the subset of probe data points; and map matching the subset of probe data points to one or more road segments based on the correspondences between map elements found within each radius of the subset of probe data points.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for map matching probe data to map elements. Methods may include: receiving a plurality of probe data points, where each probe data point includes location information associated with the probe apparatus and time information associated with the location information; establishing locations of the probe data points of a probe apparatus temporally sequenced along a path; establishing a radius around each of the probe data points; identifying map elements found within each radius; filtering probe data points to obtain a subset of probe data points; establishing correspondences between map elements found within each radius of the subset of probe data points; and map matching the subset of probe data points to one or more road segments based on the correspondences between map elements found within each radius of the subset of probe data points.

Abstract: Innovative non-surgical methods and compositions are provided for administering PDT to promote tissue regeneration or augmentation while minimizing scarring and risk of infection. Among several areas of application, is the treatment of acute and chronic wounds which have afflicted epidermal and connective tissue layers of the body. Another application area is as cosmetic surgery/treatments, including: reducing wrinkles, sulcus, scars (acne or traumatic caused), sequelae cellulite, as well as for other skin irregularities, to give a smoother skin surface. This invention consists of a collagen based or other suitable biodegradable supporting matrix which is embedded with a liposomal loaded photosensitizer. In one embodiment of this invention a liposomal formulated photosensitizer is first injected at the site followed by collagen implantation and PDT treatment. In another embodiment a liposomal formulated photosensitizer is incorporated in the collagen.

Abstract: A method and device for cosmetic surgery, especially fat reduction and collagen reformation, by means of a high power laser operating at about 980 nm is presented. The cosmetic surgery method substantially reduces or removes localized lipodystrophies, and essentially reduces flaccidity by localized laser heating of adipose tissue using an optical fiber inserted into a treatment area. The method and device are particularly well suited for treating Lipodystrophies with flaccidity High power laser energy is applied to “fat” cells to breakdown the cell walls releasing the cell fluid. The laser radiation is applied through an optical fiber which is held within a catheter-like device having a single lumen. Traditionally difficult fat cells are treated well. Delicate areas are treated safely. A saline solution may also be inserted into the treatment site to aid in the heating of the fat cells and their eventual destruction as well as their removal.

Abstract: A method and device for cosmetic surgery, especially fat reduction and collagen reformation, by means of a high power laser operating at about 980 nm is presented. The cosmetic surgery method substantially reduces or removes localized lipodystrophies, and essentially reduces flaccidity by localized laser heating of adipose tissue using an optical fiber inserted into a treatment area. The method and device are particularly well suited for treating Lipodystrophies with flaccidity High power laser energy is applied to “fat” cells to breakdown the cell walls releasing the cell fluid. The laser radiation is applied through an optical fiber which may be held within a catheter-like device having a single lumen. The optical fiber may have a diffuser mounted on the tip to further apply heating to tissues surrounding the whole tip. A saline solution may also be inserted into the treatment site to aid in the heating of the fat cells and their eventual destruction as well as their removal.

Abstract: A PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) method is presented for cosmetic rejuvenation, which is exemplified by a two phase approach for treating facial and neck skin aging while minimizing damage to the underlying region of skin being treated. To obtain best results a combination of treatments are used. This includes applying photosensitizer and light energy for stimulating the collagen within the skin, thereby restoring the elasticity of skin. The treatment procedures take about six weeks consisting of impair (damage) and repair (recovery) sessions involving skin preparation by peeling, skin detoxification, application and distribution of photosensitizer to the skin, irradiation of pre-sensitized skin followed by removal of mask. Results of long lasting improvement, especially in comparison with most cosmetic treatments, are obtained upon completion of the series, with marked changes being observed after individual sessions, which provide added incentive to complete a treatment program.

Abstract: Photosensitizer mixtures and method of treating cellulites by light illumination are presented. Photosensitizer is combined with cellular products, e.g. adipose cells, collagen, previously removed by liposuction. Concentrations used depend on treatment area, cellulite stage and whether cellulites are in depressed or elevated skin areas. The cosmetic treatment reduces/removes localized lipodystrophies, flaccidity, cellulite using localized laser, LED, etc emissions. Applied light energy destroys “fat” cells by a combination of chemical reactions primarily, and temperature, wherein cell walls break releasing cell fluid. Transmission devices guide radiation to the treatment site. One or more light sources like laser diodes or LEDs may be coupled into one or more optical fibers to increase the covered area and increase the amount of radiation in that area. Optical fibers can be introduced percutaneously or interstitially. Cell fluid in the treatment area is removed by a combination of techniques.

Abstract: A method and a composition for photochemical cross linking of collagen by photoactive agent in-vivo are presented. The method includes a non-toxic photoactive formulation of the composition with collagen, which is administered to treatment area locally; followed by irradiation with suitable wavelength. In one of the embodiment liposomal formulated mTHPC is added to the collagen and is irradiated with a 652 nm laser, resulting in producing efficient collagen scaffolds with strengthen and stabilized microstructure, thus improving the physiochemical properties of the collagen scaffold. It improves the thermostability, mechanical property and swelling ratio of newly formed scaffold. Photochemical cross-linked collagens shows antimicrobial effect, when irradiated with suitable wavelength it disinfects the treatment site and curbs microbial growth.

Abstract: Methods of treating cellulite by means of percutaneous application of a photosensitizer composition into the area of cellulite buildup followed by light illumination are presented. The photosensitizer can be combined with one or more cellular products including adipose cells and/or collagen that have been previously removed by liposuction. The cosmetic treatment method substantially reduces or removes localized lipodystrophies and/or flaccidity and/or cellulite by localized laser, LED, or other light irradiation of the area of treatment containing a photosensitizer, while minimizing trauma.

Abstract: A PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) method is presented for cosmetic rejuvenation, which is exemplified by a two phase approach for treating facial and neck skin aging while minimizing damage to the underlying region of skin being treated. To obtain best results a combination of treatments are used. This includes applying photosensitizer and light energy for stimulating the collagen within the skin, thereby restoring the elasticity of skin. The treatment procedures take about six weeks consisting of impair(damage) and repair (recovery) sessions involving skin preparation by peeling, skin detoxification, application and distribution of photosensitizer to the skin, irradiation of pre-sensitized skin followed by removal of mask. Results of long lasting improvement, especially in comparison with most cosmetic treatments, are obtained upon completion of the series, with marked changes being observed after individual sessions, which provide added incentive to complete a treatment program.

Abstract: A method and a composition for photochemical cross linking of collagen by photoactive agent in-vivo are presented. The method includes a non-toxic photoactive formulation of the composition with collagen, which is administered to treatment area locally; followed by irradiation with suitable wavelength. In one of the embodiment liposomal formulated mTHPC is added to the collagen and is irradiated with a 652 nm laser, resulting in producing efficient collagen scaffolds with strengthen and stabilized microstructure, thus improving the physiochemical properties of the collagen scaffold. It improves the thermo stability, mechanical property and swelling ratio of newly formed scaffold. Photochemical cross-linked collagens shows antimicrobial effect, when irradiated with suitable wavelength it disinfects the treatment site and curbs microbial growth.

Abstract: A photodynamic composition and a method for in vivo photonic treatments that is minimally invasive, versatile and precise are described. The invention allows for photonic treatments with only minimal insertions into the area of treatment, often a single one. The invention may be used with a standard insertion component making the system inexpensive and easy for doctors to use. The invention has applications in several areas of treatment. In vivo treatment of aesthetic skin blemishes such as varicose veins can be performed with minimal external effects. A predetermined amount of a photodynamic composition, as a foam, is injected into the vein or structure of concern. The composition is a sclerosis foam including a photosensitizer. By external compression, where applicable, the photodynamic composition is forced to remain in the vein or structure. After a predetermined time, radiation of appropriate wavelength from a light source is delivered directly to the vascular structure.

Abstract: PhotoDynamic Therapy method is used to treat problems associated with pilosebaceous units including acne and other skin conditions. At least one liposomal-formulated, hydrophobic photosensitizer, such as a dihydro- or tetrahydro-porphyrin, is topically applied to acne affected regions, and is allowed to penetrate the hair follicle before being irradiated with a suitable wavelength of light energy overlapping the absorption spectrum of the selected photosensitizer. The photoactivated agent initiates a cytotoxic effect in the sebaceous gland, reducing excess oil production and destroying bacterial growth in the follicle thus subsiding inflammatory action. Scarring of the skin is minimized and the skin heals faster due to collagen cell stimulation.

Abstract: A method and a composition for photochemical cross linking of collagen by photoactive agent in-vivo are presented. The method includes a non-toxic photoactive formulation of the composition with collagen, which is administered to treatment area locally; followed by irradiation with suitable wavelength. In one of the embodiment liposomal formulated mTHPC is added to the collagen and is irradiated with a 652 nm laser, resulting in producing efficient collagen scaffolds with strengthen and stabilized microstructure, thus improving the physiochemical properties of the collagen scaffold. It improves the thermostability, mechanical property and swelling ratio of newly formed scaffold. Photochemical cross-linked collagens shows antimicrobial effect, when irradiated with suitable wavelength it disinfects the treatment site and curbs microbial growth.

Abstract: A photodynamic composition and a method for in vivo photonic treatments that is minimally invasive, versatile and precise are described. The invention allows for photonic treatments with only minimal insertions into the area of treatment, often a single one. The invention may be used with a standard insertion component making the system inexpensive and easy for doctors to use. The invention has applications in several areas of treatment. In vivo treatment of aesthetic skin blemishes such as varicose veins can be performed with minimal external effects. A predetermined amount of a photodynamic composition, as a foam, is injected into the vein or structure of concern. The composition is a sclerosis foam including a photosensitizer. By external compression, where applicable, the photodynamic composition is forced to remain in the vein or structure. After a predetermined time, radiation of appropriate wavelength from a light source is delivered directly to the vascular structure.

Abstract: Innovative non-surgical methods and compositions are provided for administering PDT to promote tissue regeneration or augmentation while minimizing scarring and risk of infection. Among several areas of application, is the treatment of acute and chronic wounds which have afflicted epidermal and connective tissue layers of the body. Another application area is as cosmetic surgery/treatments, including: reducing wrinkles, sulcus, scars (acne or traumatic caused), sequelae cellulite, as well as for other skin irregularities, to give a smoother skin surface. This invention consists of a collagen based or other suitable biodegradable supporting matrix which is embedded with a liposomal loaded photosensitizer. In one embodiment of this invention a liposomal formulated photosensitizer is first injected at the site followed by collagen implantation and PDT treatment. In another embodiment a liposomal formulated photosensitizer is incorporated in the collagen.

Abstract: A photosensitizer mixture and a method of treating cellulites by means of a percutaneous application of the mixture into the area of cellulite buildup followed by light illumination are presented. The photosensitizer can be combined with one or more cellular products including adipose cells and/or collagen that have been previously removed by liposuction. This mixture can also include other compounds such as Lipofundin MCT 10% to improve the photosensitizer's diffusion or to dilute it Varying concentrations are used depending on the area of treatment as well as the stage of the cellulites and whether the cellulites present a depressed area in the skin or an elevated area. The cosmetic treatment method substantially reduces or removes localized lipodystrophies and/or flaccidity and/or cellulite by localized laser, LED or other light irradiation of the area of treatment having a photosensitizer applied therein.