Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present invention provides flat panel or planar lamps suitable to be placed in a body illuminating device and emitting fluorescent, ultraviolet radiation such that a person or user may be exposed to electromagnetic radiation suitable for tanning. In preferred embodiments, the invention includes a tanning device or system comprising at least one fluorescent, ultraviolet emitting planar lamp, and in certain embodiments the system uses an array of fluorescent, ultraviolet emitting planar lamps. In certain preferred embodiments, the lamp comprises at least one planar surface made of a material substantially transparent to ultraviolet radiation. A fluorescent or phosphor material is applied to the planar surface. An envelop is hermetically sealed over the planar surface to define a sealed volume containing the fluorescent material. A gas is dispersed within the volume, wherein the gas interacts with the fluorescent material when electrically excited to emit ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: A system for treating abnormal mucosa in an esophagus comprises an access catheter, an energy delivery structure near a distal end of the access catheter, and a power supply for delivering energy through the energy delivery structure under conditions which injure or ablate the mucosal layer of the esophageal wall without causing substantial injury or heating of the submucosal layer. By injuring or necrosing metaplastic or other abnormal mucosal cells, regrowth of the mucosa substantially free from abnormal cells can be initiated.

Abstract: A phototherapeutical apparatus and method are described. The apparatus includes an ultraviolet light source, an optical guidance system, and a patient interface. The patient interface is insertable at least partially into a body cavity and is operable to apply the guided ultraviolet light to a tissue surface of a body cavity. The method includes providing the phototherapeutical apparatus, preparing for the application of the phototherapeutical apparatus, inserting the patient interface at least partially into a body cavity, and applying the ultraviolet light by the patient interface to a tissue surface of a body cavity, wherein the tissue of the body cavity has an inflammatory or a hyperproliferative disease. The inflammatory diseases include rhinitis, sinusitis and rhinosinusitis. A photochemotherapeutical method is also described, using photosensitizing substances, such as psoralen before treatment with ultraviolet light.

Abstract: A tanning bed formed a plurality of modular components that are integrated in a knock-down fashion that allows easy shipment of tanning beds in less than complete form, but allows the rapid assembly without the need of special training or tools.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the treatment of skin diseases, in particular psoriasis, by means of UV radiation generated by a laser and directed towards the skin areas affected by the skin disease. Such method provides that the thickness of the epidermis in the skin areas is determined and the laser radiation dose regulated depending on the epidermis thickness so detected. The invention is based on the knowledge that the effect of UV radiation on the affected skin areas where psoriasis has developed into so-called plaques is primarily governed by the thickness of the epidermis within such plaques and not by the skin type or the MED (minimal erythema dose) established for healthy skin regions. For the determination of the thickness of the epidermis an ultrasonic device is preferably employed.

Abstract: A UV treatment comprises an upper case 2 of a size allowing right and left feet to be placed thereupon, a bottom case 2 that supports the upper case 2, and a cover 3 attached to the upper case 2. Two front position UV radiation ports 10L and 10R that open in the up-down direction are provided on both the right and left sides at the front of the upper case 2. Central UV radiation ports 15L and 15R that open in the left and right direction are provided in the left-right direction center toward the back of the upper case 2. UV lamps 20L and 20R are disposed on the bottom case 3 in positions corresponding to the front position UV radiation ports 10L and 10R, and a UV lamp 20 is disposed at a position corresponding to the central UV radiation ports 15L and 15R. When left and right feet are placed above the front radiation ports 10L and 10R of the upper case 2, both the front of a foot and the inner sole can be irradiated simultaneously.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for stabilization of aneurysm is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an ultraviolet radiation generator for generating UV radiation having a wavelength, strongly absorbed by the DNA and a catheter including means for delivering the ultraviolet radiation to the aneurysm. The distal end of the catheter is placed inside the aneurysm. Stabilization of the aneurysm is achieved by forming a mural arterial thrombus inside the aneurysm. To make irradiation possible, the blood is displaced from the aneurysm by a steady stream of UV radiation transparent fluid. The injury to the endothelium that triggers the thrombus formation is caused by UV radiation delivered to the aneurysm. In several days after intervention the thrombus becomes fully organized, leaving on the inside surface of the aneurysm a thick layer of fibrotic tissue that stabilizes the aneurysm.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating skin disorders includes a source of pulsed near black body electromagnetic energy and a means of delivering this energy to a treatment site. A means for cooling the treatment site is described. The number of pulses and intensity of the energy can be varied. Optical filters are used to limit the spectrum of energy emitted and the filters are cooled to allow high-energy operation. The size of the treatment spot is controlled by a series of apertures.

Abstract: Atherosclerotic vascular disease is treated by exposing the interior of an artery or vein to visible or ultraviolet light of a selected spectrum to thereby sterilize the artery, eradicating infectious pathogens and reverse the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic artery disease. A fiber optic bundle positioned via an intra-arterial catheter is connected to an appropriate light radiation source located outside of the body during treatment. In another form, the light energy is produced by means of a light energy source located at the distal tip of the instrument shaft positioned centrally within the atherosclerotic plaque formation. In this case, the power source at the distal tip of the instrument can be a light emitting diode (LED) or a transparent tube containing a chemilumlumenescent substance for producing cool light energy within the vessel to destroy the pathogenic microorganisms in the surrounding plaque or vessel without damage to the body tissue of the patient.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a portable foot tanning device which provides an enclosure 30 for containing the feet 18 of a user 14. The present invention 10 has a concave inside reflective surface 28 which acts like lenses, focusing lights emitted by the tanning lamp 16 toward the center of the cavity 36. A transparent feet compartment liner 20 protects feet 18 from the heat of the tanning lamp 16 by preventing direct contact. A mechanical interlock 22 prevents the lamp(s) from being activated without the liner in place. An alternative embodiment of the present invention 10 is envisioned, in which the front portion of the tanning lamp 16 and control device assembly is hinged at 38 on top, thereby allowing it to be opened upward to a predetermined height that allows the lamp 16 to be pointed outward, thereby allowing tanning on other parts of the body of a user 14 positioned in the front and outside of the device.

Abstract: A light-ray therapeutic apparatus having: a xenon illuminating lamp including a lamp body, a lamp holder provided in the lamp body, a xenon lamp held by the lamp holder, a reflecting mirror for reflecting light emitted from the xenon lamp, and a multilayer film coating-type spectral correction filter provided in a front portion of the lamp body; wherein, of the light from the xenon lamp, energy of ultraviolet rays having a wavelength not longer than 280 nm is cut off by the spectral correction filter, and spectral coincidence in an ultraviolet wavelength range of 280-400 nm, in a visible wavelength range of 380-780 nm, and in an infrared wavelength range of 780-2,500 nm are made 100±30% respectively, while the spectral coincidence is defined as a ratio of relative energy distribution of the light of the xenon lamp to relative energy distribution of the reference sunlight.

Abstract: A cover equipped to hold three pairs of ultraviolet tanning lamps is pivotally attached to a base in which the ballasts, starters, timer and other electrical equipment for energizing the lamps are housed. A transparent acrylic bezel is provided for each pair of tanning lamps to protect the user's feet. A pair of ankle receiving openings are provided in the cover, and a foot-receiving platform is provided in the base.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the structural modification of human tissue comprising collagen by irradiation of tissue with UV photons. The present invention discloses methods of altering the structural and mechanical properties of the tissue by treatment of the tissue with thermal energy and/or UV photons. The present invention further discloses an apparatus for the treatment of tissues with thermal energy and/or UV photons.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment the present invention provides a tanning system with first and second units mounted to define a gap for a person to be tanned. The gap defines a head area to be adjacent the person's head and defines first and second shoulder areas oriented to be over the shoulders of a person. The first and second shoulder areas provide ultraviolet illumination, with a reduced amount of illumination provided in the head area. In one embodiment, the system includes a row of ultraviolet lamps mounted to the tanning device. Preferably the row includes two shoulder series, where the first shoulder series is over the first shoulder of the person to be tanned, and the second shoulder series is over the second shoulder of the person to be tanned. In preferred embodiments, the tanning system uses at least one quad lamp. In certain embodiments, the quad lamps are mounted vertically. In another preferred embodiment, the quad lamp includes four elongate portions. The elongate portions are connected in pairs.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region through a bandage. One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method, comprising acts of determining the transmissivity of at least a portion of a bandage to ultraviolet light, and selecting an intensity of ultraviolet light to be applied through at least a portion of the bandage. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of sterilizing or disinfecting a region underneath a bandage on a patient. A further embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region of tissue of a patient. The apparatus comprises an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp and a bandage adapted to transmit at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the lamp. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a bandage, comprising an ultraviolet light-transmissive film, and a color-changing material coupled to the film to indicate an exposure of the film to ultraviolet light.

Abstract: Methods and devices for intracorporeal therapeutic illumination using an implantable light source are disclosed. The present invention can be used for short, intermediate and/or long-term light therapy of all internal tissues, organs and organ surfaces, including the blood, in the treatment of inflammatory, infectious, arthritic, allergic, musculoskeletal and parasitic pathologies. The implantable light source comprises a wide range of modifiable wavelengths and other light therapy parameters and can illuminate remote intracorporeal locations via optional fiber optic connection. Direct phototherapy of the blood is effected by implantable intravascular light sources, optical fiber conduits, a unique light source-bearing intravascular tubular platform or a novel, light emitting vascular prosthesis. Power and modulation of the light therapy parameters is provided by implantable power and control modules or, in preferred embodiments, by external sources in telemetric communication with the implanted light source.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, methods and structures are provided for the treatment of functional spinal unit injuries through the use of light activated gene therapy to induce bone fusion through the introduction of a desired gene into a patient's spinal tissue. Methods and structures are also provided for the utilization of ultraviolet light activated gene therapy to repair/rebuild an injured intervertebral disc through the introduction of a desired gene into a patient's spinal tissue. An implant system including a light probe and an implant with which r-AAV is integrated is also provided.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region through a bandage. One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method, comprising acts of determining the transmissivity of at least a portion of a bandage to ultraviolet light, and selecting an intensity of ultraviolet light to be applied through at least a portion of the bandage. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of sterilizing or disinfecting a region underneath a bandage on a patient. A further embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region of tissue of a patient. The apparatus comprises an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp and a bandage adapted to transmit at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the lamp. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a bandage, comprising an ultraviolet light-transmissive film, and a color-changing material coupled to the film to indicate an exposure of the film to ultraviolet light.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating various skin disorders of psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, dermatitis and acne is presented. An apparatus for the treatment of skin disorders includes a power supply, a light source, a reflecting mirror, a filter, a fiber delivery unit and a hand piece. A spectra selector using a filter or reflecting mirror is used to select a UV spectrum about (270-320) nm or a blue spectra about (405-435) nm which is delivered to the treated skin area by a light guide and a hand piece. A power supply is used to generate pulsed light of about (0.01-500) microseconds and a repetition rate of (1-500) Hz. Adjustable light spot size of 0.5×0.5 cm to 10×10 cm is proposed for efficient treatments of both small and large areas such that only the disordered areas are selectively treated whereas the exposure of the healthy areas is minimized.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a tanning device for the ankle and foot 14 area of a user 12 comprising a housing 16 having upper positioned apertures 30 for inserting the feet 14. The apertures 30 have elastic-like sleeves 18 therein which sleeves have apertures 40 therein that form a seal around the inserted appendage. The elastic-like sleeves 18 are constructed from suitable material having UV light-blocking properties so that only the appendage 14 within the housing 16 receives the UV rays. Lining the inner surfaces of the housing 16 are a plurality of ultraviolet bulbs 38 activated by an on/off toggle switch 26. Positioned within the rear wall of the device are a plurality of fans 32 moving exterior ambient air into the device that exits through either the screen floor 36 substantially forming the base of the device or a plurality of apertures forming vents 20 within the exterior walls.

Abstract: A tanning booth generally has rectangular wall panels, a floor frame, a ceiling frame and a fan that is mounted to the ceiling. The wall panels are interconnected in the shape of a figure-8 in order to form a front section or room defined by front wall panels and a back section or room defined by back wall panels. In use, the front room is a changing area that provides privacy for the user to dress and undress, and the back room is the tanning area. An inside door is provided to separate the front room from the back room. The front section and the back section are each hexagonal-shaped rooms that together form the rough figure-8 shape. Tanning lamps are provided to surround the user in the tanning room. The floor has a pattern of holes that permit air to be drawn through the tanning room by a fan mounted on the ceiling to sufficiently cool the user and lamps during tanning.

Abstract: A tanning bed has an array of closely spaced ultraviolet-emitting, fluorescent lamps in which each lamp is longitudinally offset from an adjacent lamp to allow space for grasping of one end to rotate the lamp for removal of the lamp from its sockets.

Abstract: An apparatus for the controlled generation of ultraviolet rays for a focused micro stimulation of cell structures. The apparatus comprises an ultraviolet ray beam generator, at a frequencies comprised between 200 and 400 nm; means for focusing a ray beam on a selected surface area of the cell structure, and a protective masking member in a non reflective material adhered to the cell structure; the masking member comprises at least one perforated zone to expose the selected surface area of the cell structure, to be stimulated by the focused ray beam, and a programmable control unit for metering the ultraviolet energy of the generator radiated on the selected area during a period of time.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present invention provides flat panel or planar lamps suitable to be placed in a body illuminating device and emitting fluorescent, ultraviolet radiation such that a person or user may be exposed to electromagnetic radiation suitable for tanning. In preferred embodiments, the invention includes a tanning device or system comprising at least one fluorescent, ultraviolet emitting planar lamp, and in certain embodiments the system uses an array of fluorescent, ultraviolet emitting planar lamps. In certain preferred embodiments, the lamp comprises at least one planar surface made of a material substantially transparent to ultraviolet radiation. A fluorescent or phosphor material is applied to the planar surface. An envelop is hermetically sealed over the planar surface to define a sealed volume containing the fluorescent material. A gas is dispersed within the volume, wherein the gas interacts with the fluorescent material when electrically excited to emit ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: A method of prevention and treatment of microbial infections that occur on, or just below, the skin and nails consisting of the application of electromagnetic radiation to an infected area of skin or nails for a time and at a proximity and intensity sufficient to render the microbes substantially inactivated and incapable of reproducing.

Abstract: This invention provides methods for treating a variety of disorders using electromagnetic radiation directed at excitable tissues, including nerves, muscles and blood vessels. By controlling the wavelength, the wavelength bandpass, pulse duration, intensity, pulse frequency, and/or variations of those characteristics over time, and by selecting sites of exposure to electromagnetic radiation, improvements in the function of different tissues and organs can be provided. By monitoring physiological variables such as muscle tone and activity, temperature gradients, surface electromyography, blood flow and others, the practitioner can optimize a therapeutic regimen suited for the individual patient.

Abstract: A body fat measuring apparatus is provided with a light emitting device 1 for projecting light rays to a subject's tissue, light receiving devices 3 and 4 for detecting a transmitted light ray having passed through the subject's tissue and/or a reflected light ray reflected inside the subject's body, and a CPU 6 for calculating the subject's subcutaneous fat thickness and/or body fat percentage by performing an operation by use of the detection results of the light receiving devices 3 and 4. The light receiving devices 3 and 4 are situated at different distances from the light emitting device 1.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a tanning device for the ankle and foot 14 area of a user 12 comprising a housing 16 having upper positioned apertures 30 for inserting the feet 14. The apertures 30 have elastic-like sleeves 18 therein which sleeves have apertures 40 therein that form a seal around the inserted appendage. The elastic-like sleeves 18 are constructed from suitable material having UV light-blocking properties so that only the appendage 14 within the housing 16 receives the UV rays. Lining the inner surfaces of the housing 16 are a plurality of ultraviolet bulbs 38 activated by an on/off toggle switch 26. Positioned within the rear wall of the device are a plurality of fans 32 moving exterior ambient air into the device that exits through either the screen floor 36 substantially forming the base of the device or a plurality of apertures forming vents 20 within the exterior walls.

Abstract: The invention features methods and systems for treating inflammatory, proliferative skin disorders, such as psoriasis, with ultraviolet phototherapy. The methods and systems use optical techniques to scan a patient's skin, designate areas of affected skin, and selectively deliver high doses of phototherapeutic ultraviolet radiation to the designated areas. To insure that only affected areas of skin affected are designated for the high doses of UV radiation, the methods and systems use one or more optical diagnostics that relate to independent physiological features of affected skin.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region through a bandage. One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method, comprising acts of determining the transmissivity of at least a portion of a bandage to ultraviolet light, and selecting an intensity of ultraviolet light to be applied through at least a portion of the bandage. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of sterilizing or disinfecting a region underneath a bandage on a patient. A further embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for sterilizing or disinfecting a region of tissue of a patient. The apparatus comprises an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp and a bandage adapted to transmit at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the lamp. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a bandage, comprising an ultraviolet light-transmissive film, and a color-changing material coupled to the film to indicate an exposure of the film to ultraviolet light.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the meaningful suppression of the growth potential of a pathogen in-vivo, the apparatus including an electromagnetic radiation source capable of providing broad-spectrum electromagnetic radiation, wherein the broad-spectrum electromagnetic radiation has wavelengths of from about 190 nm to about 1200 nm, the broad-spectrum electromagnetic radiation having an intensity sufficient to achieve meaningful suppression in the growth potential of the pathogen in-vivo and wherein at least part of the apparatus is adapted for placement proximate to the in-vivo location of the pathogen.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method including an act of applying ultraviolet light to a region of tissue on a patient and/or to a catheter inserted into the patient to sterilize or disinfect the region. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for performing the method. The apparatus comprises a housing and an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp disposed within the housing. The housing includes a light seal to substantially prevent light from traveling beyond the housing and the region of tissue during sterilization or disinfection. A further embodiment of the invention is directed to a device for use with a catheter and an ultraviolet light-emitting lamp. The device comprises a reflective surface adapted to be coupled to a catheter to direct light emitted by the ultraviolet light-emitting lamp to a portion of the catheter near an entrance site of the catheter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the structural modification of human tissue comprising collagen by irradiation of tissue with UV photons. The present invention discloses methods of altering the structural and mechanical properties of the tissue by treatment of the tissue with thermal energy and/or UV photons. The present invention further discloses an apparatus for the treatment of tissues with thermal energy and/or UV photons.

Abstract: Apparatuses adopted to provide light therapy to regions of the body that cannot be conveniently exposed to the sun or conventional tanning equipment. Four embodiments of the invention include a tanning bed 10 with an adjustable leg support 12 that allows tanning of the buttocks and rectal and genital areas of a person lying on the bed 10, a toilet (water closet) 20 equipped with one or more tanning lamps 26 for tanning the rectal and genital areas of a person sitting on the toilet 20, a foot and hand tanning apparatus 40 comprising a flexible block 42 with slots 44 for receiving the toes or fingers 48 of a person, and a tanning recliner 50 with tanning lamps 56 located within for tanning the skin of the user reclining on the recliner 50.

Abstract: Skin disorders such as, for example, atopic dermatitis, dyshidrosis, eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis, and vitiligo, are treated by applying high doses of ultraviolet light to diseased regions of a patients skin. The dosage employed exceeds 1 MED, an MED being determined for the particular patient being treated, and may range from about 1 MED to about 20 MED or higher. The ultraviolet light has a wavelength within the range of between about 295 nanometers to about 320 nanometers and preferably is between about 300 nanometers and about 310 nanometers. High doses of ultraviolet light are restricted to diseased tissue areas so as to avoid risk of detrimental side affects in healthy skin, which is more susceptible to damage from UV light. Cooling the skin prior to and/or while exposing the skin to the UV light can be used to minimize tissue damage resulting from exposure to the UV light. Higher doses of UV light can therefore be employed without injurious affects.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing electromagnetic biostimulation of tissue includes a source of electromagnetic radiation and relay optics operatively connected to the source of electromagnetic radiation for transmitting electromagnetic radiation for biostimulating tissue. An echo imaging device for producing an ultrasonic image of the tissue is also provided. And, control circuitry is used for controlling the electromagnetic radiation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the phototherapy of different skin conditions, particularly acne vulgaris seborrhea and inflammation. The invention consists of a multiple session treatment method by a violet/blue light source with a spectral emission in the range of 400-450 nanometer and possible additional spectral bands in the green and red part of the spectrum and possibly with the topical application of oxygen transporting compounds, and/or a methylene blue solution. The apparatus includes at least one narrow spectral band light source with spectral emittance concentrated in the violet/blue spectral band. The apparatus use the radiation to reduce the level of extra cellular pro inflammatory cytokines related to inflammation and to significantly reduce the acne bacteria population by a photodynamic effect.

Abstract: A tanning booth has a tanning bed and a horizontally pivotable irradiation cover pivotable into an irradiation position above the tanning bed and pivotable into an access position allowing access to the tanning bed, wherein in the irradiation position the irradiation cover surrounds the tanning bed at least partially. The irradiation cover is shaped as a spherical segment or a cylindrical segment and has a curved inner wall facing the tanning bed, wherein the inner wall has a reflective layer. Irradiation light sources emit light beams onto the reflective layer of the inner wall.

Abstract: A light-emitting apparatus, such as a sun-tanning apparatus, has a housing enclosing a light source and other components, and a wall made of a translucent material through which light and other radiation passes to a user. The wall has a first surface facing the light source, and a second surface facing away from the source. To provide light scattering, so that a user does not see the image of the light source or non-light-emitting components, at least one of the surfaces, preferably the first surface only, has a surface structure divided into at least two areas which scatter light while still radiating a sparkling light. Each of these areas has a mutually different surface structure, preferably formed of a respective pattern of elementary structural shapes.

Abstract: A tanning apparatus with first and second tanning units movable between an open position to provide access to an interior and a closed position to enclose the interior and define a tanning chamber. Ultraviolet lamps are supported on one of the tanning units, and a control switch operates to generate ultraviolet radiation within the tanning chamber for a selected time interval. At least one handle projects away from a mounting surface for one of the units, and includes at least one mount and a grasping member connected to the mount so that the individual's arms can be elevated to promote exposure to radiation on a first region of the individual's body between the arm and torso during a tanning session. A method of promoting exposure to ultraviolet radiation is also provided, as well as a handle for use by the individual during a tanning session and a tanning apparatus.

Abstract: A light-ray therapeutic apparatus having: a xenon illuminating lamp including a lamp body, a lamp holder provided in the lamp body, a xenon lamp held by the lamp holder, a reflecting mirror for reflecting light emitted from the xenon lamp, and a multilayer film coating-type spectral correction filter provided in a front portion of the lamp body; wherein, of the light from the xenon lamp, energy of ultraviolet rays having a wavelength not longer than 280 nm is cut off by tie spectral correction filter, and spectral coincidence in an ultraviolet wavelength range of 280-400 nm, in a visible wavelength range of 380-780 nm, and in an infrared wavelength range of 780-2,500 nm are made 100±30% respectively, while the spectral coincidence is defined as a ratio of relative energy distribution of the light of the xenon lamp to relative energy distribution of the reference sunlight.

Abstract: Disclosed herein catheters, assemblies comprising a single-lumen catheter having one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation disposed within the wall of said catheter. Methods of using these catheters and assemblies are also provided.

Abstract: A targeted UV phototherapy apparatus has a UV radiation source for emitting UV radiation at a first wavelength and a phosphor element separate from the source for converting the UV radiation in the first wavelength to a different UV wavelength in the therapeutic UVB or UVA range. A radiation directing assembly directs radiation from the UV source to the separate phosphor element, and a shaped exit aperture placed directly against a lesion directs radiation emitted from the phosphor element onto a predetermined target area of the lesion.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the bioenergy field. Acupuncture is an example of this bioenergy; in acupuncture, this bioenergy is known as Chi. There are many other names for this bioenergy, such as prana, etheric field, aura, aka, etc. This invention relates to a new and novel way of influencing these bioenergies.

Abstract: A tanning cushion is adapted to be used by a sunbather in a tanning bed. The tanning cushion comprises at least one inflatable panel. Each inflatable panel has a plurality of support chambers. The inflatable panel inflates up to three inches, and is made of a substantially transparent material adapted to permit ultra-violet radiation to pass therethrough. The inflatable panel has a sufficient number of support chambers to provide comfort during a tanning session and to prevent pressure points from forming on the sunbather. The tanning cushion further comprises inflation means for inflating the plurality of support chambers.

Abstract: This invention is generally in the field of improved methods for the localized delivery of heat and the localized imaging of biological materials. The delivery may be in vitro or in vivo and is useful for the localized treatment of cancer, inflammation or other disorders involving overproliferation of tissue. The method is also useful for diagnostic imaging. The method involves localized induction of hyperthermia in a cell or tissue by delivering nanoparticles to said cell or tissue and exposing the nanoparticles to an excitation source under conditions wherein they emit heat.

Abstract: A UV phototherapy apparatus has a base unit containing a UVB arc lamp and an output port for delivery of UVB radiation within a predetermined range. A flexible, elongate optical guide is connected to the output port at one end and to a handpiece at the opposite end. The handpiece is arranged to convert the round beam from the optical guide into a predetermined straight-edged shape such as a rectangular beam, and has an exit aperture of corresponding shape for delivering the shaped beam to a target area of a patient. A beam isolating assembly in the optical path isolates UVB radiation in the predetermined range from the lamp output, so that at least 90% of the radiation directed into the optical guide is in the predetermined range.

Abstract: A light stint implant device adapted to be surgically implanted in a major blood vessel for assisting in the treatment of long term viral infection, alone or in combination with anti-viral drugs, is disclosed. The implant device is programmed for set periods of illumination and set periods of dormancy through a remote power supply and timing device accessible through a sub-dermal implant adapted to be surgically placed in a location under the skin. The device, after being implanted within such blood vessel will eliminate viruses located within the blood through exposure to light given off by the light stint implant device during the periods of illumination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dynamic exposure to ultraviolet rays; a person is radiated by means of ultraviolet ray sources, at high and/or low UV pressure, emitted by radiation units peripherally arranged around a footboard on which the person to be radiated is standing upright on a rotary platform of the footboard which it is allowed to slowly rotate. Reflecting panels, opposite to the UV radiation units, allow the UV rays to be radiated directly and by reflection, to reduce energy consumption.

Abstract: Method comprising steps of: A) determining a quantity related to a person's personal minimum erythema dose (MED), B) using said quantity as an input for a tanning-related device, thus influencing its operation, and comprising for the purpose of step A), C) non-invasively measuring a feature of the person's skin related to the person's personal MED, and D) electronically deducing the person's personal MED from the measured feature. Furthermore, a device for use with a tanning-related device (12) comprising measuring means (1) for non-invasively measuring a feature of the person's skin (3) related to the person's personal MED, deduction means (5) for deducting the person's personal MED from the measured feature, and communication means (7) for electronically communicating a signal representing the deduced MED to a tanning-related device. Thus, it is possible to use information coming from an objective measurement for controlling a tanning-related device with no risk of skin damage.