Abstract:
A process, apparatus, and method for computerized detection, tracking, and feedback control of nutritional supplements in an animal, including humans relies on Raman scattering effects on skin or other tissues to determine the content of carotenoids or other nutrients as evidenced in that skin. Serum levels of nutrients may vary dramatically with time, but skin tissues may average such nutrition over time. Skin and other tissues may be scanned with light to produce accurate measurements of carotenoids or other nutrients accumulated in the skin based on the Raman scattering affect of those nutrients in the skin. A score can be derived from a properly calibrated bio-photonic scanner to reflect an averaged effective uptake of the detected nutrient (e.g. such as the carotenoid example). This feedback control is thus much more immediate than any anecdotal, long-term, report of general well being, which would vary so much between individuals as to be nearly impossible to ascertain on an individual level, and difficult, invasive, and expensive to determine individually in a conventional clinical procedure.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/448,996 entitled SEAMLESS GLOBAL COMPENSATION SYSTEM filed Feb. 20, 2003. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. The Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    This invention relates to digital computers and photonic scanners, and more particularly, to unique apparatus and methods for timely, computerized, detection, tracking, and feedback control of the biological uptake of targeted nutrients. 
         [0004]    2. The Background Art 
         [0005]    The world of electronics and optical measurement systems is broad, varied, and has a long, colorful history. Systems for detection of optics by virtue of radar signatures, infrared signatures, and other spectral signatures have been used for decades. Accordingly, methods of detection and signal processing are plentiful. 
         [0006]    In ancient times, nutrition and the art or science of the use of various herbs and naturally occurring compositions has been useful to the human race. In modern times, nutrition has received much public exposure as a science. The public is educated through schools, advertising, publications, government programs, and the like in order to improve nutritional habits. The field of pharmaceuticals, typically perceived to be either synthetic or processed drugs and medicaments has blended with nutritional sciences, and the art or science of herbal treatments and remedies. Nutriceuticals are products that fall in the area of nutritional and herbal materials that may provide additional remedial benefits. 
         [0007]    Multi-level marketing has been a method of direct sale of products for many years. Multi-level marketing is built upon incentive programs whereby rewards are allocated to individuals and entities for the sale of product and the management of organizations. Typically, all proceeds derived from product sales are distributed according to an organizational genealogy relating various sales persons or dealers to managers and directors responsible for recruiting, training, motivating, supplying, and so forth, the front-line dealers. Compensation systems are themselves an art form of sorts. Moreover, management systems in organizations of all types have developed into various art forms, sciences, and the like, depending on one&#39;s view point and approach. 
         [0008]    In the area of optics and detectors, U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354 B1 issued Mar. 20, 2001 to Gellerman et. al. is directed to a method and apparatus for non-evasive measurement of carotenoids and related chemical substances and biological tissue. This patent is incorporated herein by reference. The method and apparatus of Gellerman et al. provide a non-invasive, rapid, accurate and safe determination of carotenoid levels, which, in turn, can provide diagnostic information regarding risk of disease or markers for conditions, such as carotenoids, or other antioxidant compounds. The method and apparatus utilize the technique of Resonance Raman Spectroscopy to measure the levels of carotenoids and similar substances in tissue. 
         [0009]    In this technique, laser light is directed upon an area of tissue of interest. A small fraction of the scattered light is scattered inelastically, producing the carotenoid Raman signal, which is at a different frequency than the incident laser light. The Raman signal is collected, filtered, and measured. The resulting Raman signal can be analyzed such that the background fluorescent signal is subtracted and the results displayed and compared with known calibration standards. 
         [0010]    Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,831 issued Feb. 23, 1999 to Bernstein et. al. is directed to a method and system for measurement of macular carotenoid levels. This system, method, and apparatus provide for the determination of macular carotenoid levels. The invention measures the levels of macular carotenoid pigments, as well as other retinal materials. Monochromatic laser light is projected onto a retina, preferably in the macular area. A very sensitive detection system then takes the light scattered on the retina. Raman scattered light is selected and routed to a detection system, where the results are calibrated into actual standards for the particular retinal material being tested. 
         [0011]    In the nutritional supplement area, much has been stated in technical, academic, trade, and consumer literature regarding antioxidants. Carotenoids are considered to be an antioxidant. Many herbs, foods, and processed compositions thereof provide antioxidants, including carotenoids. 
         [0012]    In the area of multi-level marketing, U.S. Pat. No. 6,421,648 B1 issued Jul. 16, 2002 to Gagnon et. al. is directed to a data processing system for the management of a differential continuous compensation claim. This patent identifies a data processing system provided for monitoring and recording information flow and data, and making calculations necessary for maintaining a differential continuous compensation plan identified therein. 
         [0013]    Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 6,415,265 B1 issued Jul. 2, 2002 to Shell et. al., along with its sibling U.S. Pat. No. 6,408,281 B1 and parent U.S. Pat. No. 6,134,533 are directed to a multi-level marketing computer network server to integrate collection of a payment via the network and automatically distribute product with the calculation of commissions via the network. 
         [0014]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,734,838 issued Mar. 31, 1998 to Robinson et. al. is directed to a database computing architecture for managing an incentive award program, and checking float of funds at the time of purchase. U.S. Pat. No. 5,537,314 issued Jul. 16, 1996 to Kanter is directed to a referral recognition system for an incentive award system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,202,826, issued Apr. 13, 1993 to McCarthy is directed to a centralized consumer cash accumulation system for multiple merchants, wherein credit value may be based upon predetermined incentives associated with a transaction such as coupons, rebates, discounts, credit rate, or a combination thereof. 
         [0015]    Individuals often consult a doctor. The medical world is often reputed to be directed toward management by exception. That is, medical professionals are typically consulted for, and typically respond to, either acute or chronic symptoms of imbalance, trauma, stress, or ill condition. The nutritional science community is directed toward proper nutrition and maintenance of good health. Often, a non-medical health or nutrition inventory is simply not considered or done. It may be useful to a healthy individual to determine a status of antioxidants or carotenoid concentrations in the body. 
         [0016]    Accordingly, it would be an advance in the art to provide a system for timely, non-medical diagnostic measurements of antioxidants, such as carotenoid content, as represented by the carotenoid content in skin. It would be a further advance in the art to couple this evaluation process with availability of nutritional supplements recognized for their antioxidant content, such as carotenoids. 
         [0017]    It would be yet a further advance in the art to combine such a system with a marketing management and incentive system to compensate those who perform such inventories on healthy subjects, and those who market nutritional supplements associated with or directed to increasing amounts of targeted nutritional constituents (e.g., antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, etc.), while managing the data relating the technological devices, the operators, the subjects, the consumers, and the marketing organizations. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
       [0018]    Accordingly, a method and apparatus in accordance with the present invention provide an integration of a technological device in accordance with the work of Gellerman, et al., applied to a process of inventory scanning of individuals for particular content of selected nutritional elements in the skin. One such nutritional element is the class of substances characterized as antioxidants and more particularly, a class of substances classified as carotenoids. 
         [0019]    In certain embodiments, a system and method in accordance with the invention may provide computer code for communication between various computer systems. The system may include a laser illumination device and appropriate detection system, each including sufficient controller capacity for execution of their functions, and connected to other computational capacity to process the signals of the detector. Accordingly, such a system make take data, remove error, compensate for background noise, and ultimately fit the data to a curve or histogram providing an intensity value corresponding to a range of optical or other frequencies. 
         [0020]    A computation system may be programmed to provide controls for the laser scanner and detection system, along with software to control the prompting and instruction of an operator, thus minimizing the skill level required of an operator. That is, much instrumentation is created strictly for the use of those highly skilled in the science to which it pertains. Moreover, much instrumentation is sufficiently complex, with only rudimentary controls, thus requiring a high level of skill and knowledge of both the science and the hardware in order to conduct operations. In a method and apparatus in accordance with the invention, a user interface programmed into a computer connected to a laser scanner may provide for simplified operation by a non-professional and non-technical operator. 
         [0021]    Accordingly, the scanner takes data, provided to the master or host computer, and processes that data to determine the intensity of a Raman-Scattering response of the skin of a subject, as a result of laser illumination in a particular spectral band. The computer thus processes the data and provides a display to a user or operator regarding the content of the skin of a subject. For example, the carotenoid level may be identified directly, or identified in a relative sense as a score that may be compared with previous and subsequent scanning results. 
         [0022]    The master computer may log data and upload it to a centrally based computer operated by an owner or affiliated company or other entity. For example, over a direct link or a world wide web link, the master computer may upload data regarding one or more scanning sessions to the central computer. Thus, many subjects over long periods of time may be tracked and recorded in a database. 
         [0023]    Meanwhile, a system of method in accordance with the invention may provide for computer programs comprising executables and operational data for tracking and allocating compensation transfers between licensors of technology, operators of scanning devices used for taking inventory, sellers of nutritional supplements, and management organizations and individuals responsible for distributing nutritional supplements and motivating or training sales forces. 
         [0024]    The central computing facility may track subjects, operators, sellers of nutritional supplements, organizational entities and individuals, managing, training, and distributing to supplement dealers, in order to allocate commissions for tasks performed thereby. Likewise, where technology such as a scanning device may be leased or licensed, royalties payable to owners of intellectual property may be calculated by a central computing facility. Likewise, systems may be programmed to allocate financial distributions to all entities involved. They may provide data for computers to actually apply credits or print checks, compensating individual entities having an association with the scanning process, the sales process, the manufacturing process, the distribution process, and so forth, associated with a cycle of scanning, and delivering supplements. 
         [0025]    In one embodiment, a system and method in accordance with the invention may provide a scanner conducting multiple dozens of scans over some period of time. For example, in one embodiment, thirty scans of a subject may occur in approximately twenty seconds. Many data points may be collected. In one embodiment, 2,048 data points are collected with each scan for reading. Thus, thirty scans in approximately twenty seconds, each with 2,048 data points, may represent various pixels on a detector. That is, a detector may detect a light intensity for each of multiple frequencies received. In one embodiment, a charge-coupled device provides multiple pixels, each identified with a specific frequency, and each capable of integrating an intensity during a particular scan. Thus, the intensity of photons in a pixel identify the intensity at the subject frequency corresponding to the pixel. 
         [0026]    Relying on Raman-Scattering, a frequency shift occurs between the input signal, illuminating the skin of a subject (consumer), resulting in an output back to a detector at a different end characteristic frequency. The curve fit of the overall detection spectrum can be processed to identify the intensity over the frequency range corresponding to carotenoid content of the user. In certain embodiments, noise may be calibrated out by comparing illuminations of neutral, opaque materials, and materials of known carotenoid content as well as unilluminated backgrounds in order to adjust the device field. 
         [0027]    In certain embodiments, the scanner self-controls itself at some level of hardware. Typically, the hardware level is quite low, and the computational requirement is minimal for the self-control of a laser illumination source and a detector, such as a charged coupled device (CCD). A scanner containing a laser illumination source and a detector with the basic level of controls may connect to additional computation facility in another digital computer, such as a laptop, personal digital assistant, desktop computer, or the like. In the main computer or master computer to which the detector may connect, a dynamic link library may contain the processing applications required in order to take, process, log, and manage data. Meanwhile, other applications may connect through API (application programming interfaces) in order to access library routines, objects, or other executables. 
         [0028]    Processing may include averaging multiple scan intensities, conducting dark scans to measure environmental noise, calibrating the reading of neutral background and a pre-determined level of detectible carotenoids in a calibration sample, compensating for temperature or other environmental factors, and the like. 
         [0029]    The master computer may also include a user interface to provide prompting of a user (operator) in scanning a subject. Likewise, user interface may provide for prompts in database intake templates to obtain subject data, demographic information, environmental information, or any other data that may be useful either to the scanner or to the organization that may ultimately interact with the subject in marketing and tracking delivery of nutritional supplements. The user interface may provide a variety of processes for security, authorization, and other controls in order to ensure proper and authorized usage, reporting, and other compliance. 
         [0030]    In one embodiment, a scanner may be operated by an operator who provides to a subject (consumer, visitor, customer, etc.) a result representing a score corresponding to antioxidant content such as carotenoid content in the skin of the subject. A consumer may pay to have a scan conducted. That is, individuals have their blood pressure checked at clinics, stores, and various other locations. Similarly, a consumer may go to a nutrition supplement store and have a carotenoid scan conducted. 
         [0031]    In some embodiments of an apparatus and method in accordance with the invention, a purveyor of nutritional supplements may provide a certificate, such as a gift certificate, to a consumer or prospective customer, which certificate may be redeemed with any one of members of a network of people who operate scanners. Accordingly, the certificate, once redeemed, results in a certificate number or other identification corresponding to the operator and scanning machine that conducted the scan. Likewise, the certificate may have already been identified with the purveyor of nutritional supplements. By conducting intake questioning of the subject, the scanning operator can also link to the scan and certify the identification of the subject. 
         [0032]    Subsequently, if and when a subject determines to purchase nutritional supplement products, a database system provided with the identification and information corresponding to the scanner, the operator, the certificate, and the subject may link a seller of product. Accordingly, a database system may contain enough information for processing of compensation systems for all parties and devices involved in the scanning, motivation, and delivery corresponding to the traditional supplements purchased by a customer. 
         [0033]    Accordingly, each consumer (customer) may be tracked and further motivated by subsequent delivery of certificates valid for subsequent scanning in order to monitor skin carotenoid content in accordance with on-going ingestion of nutritional supplements directed thereto. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0034]    The foregoing and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments in accordance with the invention and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
           [0035]      FIG. 1  is a schematic block diagram of a digital computer system such as may be used in various components in an apparatus and method in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 2  is a schematic block diagram of a seamless, global, compensation system operable over a system of computers for managing a multi-level marketing system and a consumer scanning process; 
           [0037]      FIG. 3  is a schematic block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a seamless, global, compensation system operating both over the Internet and through direct connection to the system; 
           [0038]      FIG. 4  is an alternative embodiment of a seamless, global, compensation system in accordance with the present invention, operable completely over Internet connections; 
           [0039]      FIG. 5  is a schematic block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a seamless, global, compensation system in conjunction with a scanner system operable over the Internet and through direct connections; 
           [0040]      FIG. 6  is a schematic block diagram of a process for generating and redeeming certificates as a motivation for purchase of products related to conditions scanned in accordance with the invention; 
           [0041]      FIG. 7  is a schematic block diagram of a process for demonstrating a coordinated scanning system and a product system in order to scan for a condition addressed by the product; 
           [0042]      FIG. 8  is a schematic block diagram of a service core including data and executables for managing and presenting multi-level marketing information and associated scanning information; 
           [0043]      FIG. 9  is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a process in accordance with the invention for allocating financial distributions in accordance with a product, a scanning system, and a global network of relationships between individual entities; 
           [0044]      FIG. 10  is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a scanner and master processor that may operate as a scanning system and user-interface host in accordance with the invention; 
           [0045]      FIG. 11  is a schematic block diagram of a process for controlling authorization and operation of a scanner in accordance with the invention; 
           [0046]      FIG. 12  is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a method of operation of a scanner and associated user-interface host connected thereto; and 
           [0047]      FIG. 13  is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a system of modules resident in memory of a computer in order to operate and integrate a system of scanning in accordance with the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0048]    It will be readily understood that the components of the present, invention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of systems and methods in accordance with the present invention, as represented in  FIGS. 1 through 13 , is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of certain examples of presently contemplated embodiments in accordance with the invention. The presently described embodiments will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. 
         [0049]    Many of the functional units described in this specification have been labeled as modules, executables, systems, servers, and the like in order to more particularly emphasize their implementation independence. For example, modules may be implemented in software for execution by various types of processors. An identified module of executable code may, for instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions which may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module need not be physically located together, but may comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joined logically together, comprise the module and achieve the stated purpose for the module. For example, a module of executable code may be a single instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices. 
         [0050]    Modules may also be implemented in hardware as electronic circuits comprising custom VLSI circuitry, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like. 
         [0051]    Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustrated herein within modules, and may be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a single data set, or may be distributed over different locations including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network. 
         [0052]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , an apparatus  10  may implement the invention on one or more nodes  11 , (client  11 , computer  11 ) containing a processor  12  (CPU  12 ). All components may exist in a single node  11  or may exist in multiple nodes  11 ,  52  remote from one another. The CPU  12  may be operably connected to a memory device  14 . A memory device  14  may include one or more devices such as a hard drive or other non-volatile storage device  16 , a read-only memory  18  (ROM  18 ) and a random access (and usually volatile) memory  20  (RAM  20  or operational memory  20 ). 
         [0053]    The apparatus  10  may include an input device  22  for receiving inputs from a user or from another device. Similarly, an output device  24  may be provided within the node  11 , or accessible within the apparatus  10 . A network card  26  (interface card) or port  28  may be provided for connecting to outside devices, such as the network  30 . 
         [0054]    Internally, a bus  32 , or plurality of buses  32 , may operably interconnect the processor  12 , memory devices  14 , input devices  22 , output devices  24 , network card  26  and port  28 . The bus  32  may be thought of as a data carrier. As such, the bus  32  may be embodied in numerous configurations. Wire, fiber optic line, wireless electromagnetic communications by visible light, infrared, and radio frequencies may likewise be implemented as appropriate for the bus  32  and the network  30 . 
         [0055]    Input devices  22  may include one or more physical embodiments. For example, a keyboard  34  may be used for interaction with the user, as may a mouse  36  or stylus pad  37 . A touch screen  38 , a telephone  39 , or simply a telecommunications line  39 , may be used for communication with other devices, with a user, or the like. Similarly, a scanner  40  may be used to receive graphical inputs, which may or may not be translated to other formats. The hard drive  41  or other memory device  41  may be used as an input device whether resident within the node  11  or some other node  52  (e.g.  52 ,  54 , etc.) on the network  30 , or from another network  50 . 
         [0056]    Output devices  24  may likewise include one or more physical hardware units. For example, in general, the port  28  may be used to accept inputs into and send outputs from the node  11 . Nevertheless, a monitor  42  may provide outputs to a user for feedback during a process, or for assisting two-way communication between the processor  12  and a user. A printer  44 , a hard drive  46 , or other device may be used for outputting information as output devices  24 . 
         [0057]    In general, a network  30  to which a node  11  connects may, in turn, be connected through a router  48  to another network  50 . In general, two nodes  11 ,  52  may be on a network  30 , adjoining networks  30 ,  50 , or may be separated by multiple routers  48  and multiple networks  50  as individual nodes  11 ,  52  on an internetwork. The individual nodes  52  (e.g.  11 ,  48 ,  52 ,  54 ) may have various communication capabilities. 
         [0058]    In certain embodiments, a minimum of logical capability may be available in any node  52 . Note that any of the individual nodes  11 ,  48 ,  52 ,  54  may be referred to, as may all together, as a node  11  or a node  52 . Each may contain a processor  12  with more or less of the other components  14 - 46 . 
         [0059]    A network  30  may include one or more servers  54 . Servers may be used to manage, store, communicate, transfer, access, update, and the like, any practical number of files, databases, or the like for other nodes  52  on a network  30 . Typically, a server  54  may be accessed by all nodes  11 ,  52  on a network  30 . Nevertheless, other special functions, including communications, applications, directory services, and the like, may be implemented by an individual server  54  or multiple servers  54 . 
         [0060]    In general, a node  11  may need to communicate over a network  30  with a server  54 , a router  48 , or nodes  52 . Similarly, a node  11  may need to communicate over another network ( 50 ) in an internetwork connection with some remote node  52 . Likewise, individual components  12 - 46  may need to communicate data with one another. A communication link may exist, in general, between any pair of devices. 
         [0061]    Referring to  FIG. 2 , in one embodiment, a system  60  or a seamless, global compensation system  60  may include various elements of hardware and software in order to implement integration of marketing, tracking of management structures, tracking and execution of compensation, consumer testing and motivation, allocation and tracking of royalty payments, and delivery of nutritional supplements. In one embodiment, a system  60  may include hardware and software suitable to connect to the Internet  62 . For example, an Internet service provider  64  may connect through an Internet service provider (ISP) interface  66  to the system  60 . Alternatively, or in addition, a telecommunications interface  68  may connect to a conventional telecommunications network  69 . In either event or both, the system  60  provides for communication with a network of customers, operators, dealers, managers, suppliers, and so forth. 
         [0062]    In certain embodiments, the system  60  may rely on a database system  70 . The database system  70  may be configured to operate in any of a host of modes. For example, object-oriented databases may embed both executables and attributes (operational data) into a single object associated with a particular function, purpose, entity or the like. Similarly, relational databases may operate by virtue of tables populated and managed by independent executables or database engines. Other applicable, logical constructs may be used instead. 
         [0063]    Regardless of whether a database engine  72  is independent from database records  74  or embedded such that the database engine  72  and database records  74  are implemented with individual objects as executables and attributes, respectively, is not determinative. The database system  70  needs to provide the functionality of a database engine  72  capable of moving data in and out of database records  74  and providing for searching, indexing, and so forth of the database records  74  by whatever technological mechanism provides suitable functionality. Thus, the specific architecture of the database system  70  may be selected in order to provide desired functionality in view of available technology and the costs of creation and maintenance. 
         [0064]    In certain embodiments, a server  76  may be programmed in software, hardware, or both to handle uploaded data files received from operators operating in accordance with the invention. For example, data files to be received for processing, or for inclusion directly into the database  74  may be uploaded from the Internet  62  or from a telecommunications network  69  from other users (customers, dealers, operators, etc.) into the server  76 . 
         [0065]    Software updates may be needed for interacting with the system  60  or for software for operating a scanner (see  FIGS. 3-5 ,  10 , scanner  102 , for example). A server  78  may provide software updates to be downloaded to those in need, such as customers, operators especially, dealers or the like for whom software may be available. Typically, software updates may be provided by the server  78  to operators in order to provide the most recent operating characteristics for the scanner  102 . 
         [0066]    In certain presently contemplated embodiments, an authorization server  80  may manage and provide authorizations to operators, in order to properly conduct scans using the scanner  102 . That is, for example, the intellectual property associated with the scanner is the subject of various patents, licenses, ownership, and the like. Accordingly, several mechanisms may be implemented in order to obtain financial returns on the efficacious use of a scanner  102 . For example, if royalties are to be provided on the basis of use of a scanner  102 , then the authorization server  80  may allocate, track, and otherwise control use, in order that royalties may be based upon use. 
         [0067]    On the other hand, if machines are sold, then royalties may be paid based on the sale price of a scanner  102 . Thus, an authorization server  80  may be tasked with responsibilities for allocating authorization on an ongoing or on a specific incident basis. Depending on the architecture selected, the servers  76 ,  78 ,  80  may all be connected to the database system  70 . In an alternative embodiment, the data files server  76  may be connected to the database system  70  and may communicate with the authorization server  80  in order to properly perform the controlling functions thereof. Similarly, the software update server  78  may stand independently, or may be connected to other modules or elements of the system  60  in order to integrate the providing, tracking, and accounting for various services. 
         [0068]    In certain embodiments, a certificate distribution system  82  may be configured in one of many ways. For example, the system  82  may actually be another server  82 . In alternative embodiments, the system  82  may be a standalone hardware system. In certain embodiments, the certificate distribution system  82  may simply be embodied in certain executables that coordinate with or are incorporated within the authorization server  80 . In other embodiments, a certain security process may be embodied to control a certificate distribution system  82  as a part of the database  70  itself. 
         [0069]    In one presently contemplated embodiment, the certificate distribution system  82  may be embodied in the server or processor that connects to the server  76 , in order that the server  76  may then interact with an operator to provide all of the necessary information, and collect all of the appropriate data with respect to the operator. 
         [0070]    Similarly, the server  76  may connect to the authorization server  80 , with the authorization server  80  providing the gate keeping function, and serving to an operator with the necessary authorization in exchange for the files to be uploaded to the server  76 . Thus, a variety of connection and control schemes may be implemented in order to effect each of the functions of serving updated software to an operator, uploading files from an operator (or more properly from the computer thereof), serving authorizations to an operator and the computer of an operator, and distributing certificates for redemption by subjects who provide them to an operator in return for the scanning service. 
         [0071]    In one presently contemplated environment, the server  80  may be regarded as the web server, and may receive information, provide authorizations, and forward to the database  70  from the server  76  the files uploaded to the server  76  by the computer  100  and operator. Nevertheless, regardless of the particular hardware and software that controls or executes the particular function, the database  70  may operate in accordance with an enterprise resource planning system  90 . The planning system  90  may incorporate the software, data, or both that allocates, manages, tracks, and accounts for the resources of the enterprise served by the system  60 . 
         [0072]    For example, lease payments on hardware, commissions for sales, economic distributions to licensors owning property that is licensed, authorization of operation of scanners  102  within regions, geographical areas, market segments, and the like, and so forth, may all be considered resources. Likewise, financial streams are also resources. Accordingly, the enterprise resource planning system  90  may contain or create the plan, formula, or the control also for the allocation of resources in a system. Accordingly, the system  90  may provide to the database system  70  periodic updates of the plan incorporated therein. 
         [0073]    Similarly, a royalty module  92  may be provided as an executable, system of objects, a server, or the like that provides for royalty controls and data with respect to licensed technology. For example, patented scanners  102  may derive royalties in accordance with the royalty schedule provided by, contained in, stored by, created by, enforced by, or delivered by the royalty module  92 . 
         [0074]    Similarly, a commission system  94  may contain, create, store, generate, allocate, control, deliver, or enforce a schedule of commissions, bonuses, and other financial or other remunerations to entities involved in the enterprise. For example, operators, in redeeming certificates, may obtain rights to financial compensation. Similarly, sales of product result in compensation to the sales people, managers, recruiters, and others who may be involved in the marketing enterprise. Thus, the enterprise resource planning system  90 , the royalty module  92 , and the commission system  94  provide the functionality to allocate financial and other resources among the entities that may be involved in the enterprise. Similarly, the authorization server  80 , the certificate distribution system  82 , as well as the uploaded data files server  76  and the software updates  78  handle the information data resources flowing into and out of the system  60 . 
         [0075]    In certain embodiments, a dealer portal  86  may include a volumes and genealogy module  87 . The volumes and genealogy module  87  is responsible for publishing for the benefit of dealers, marketing products, as well as others who may have a need and right to know the allocations of the volumes of sales, however represented. Likewise, the genealogy portion of the volumes and genealogy module  87  provides the information regarding the relationships between networks of dealers, operators, and the like. 
         [0076]    Accordingly, the genealogy of a multi-level marketing organization may be published for review of those who have responsibility or relationships with the organization and individuals. Similarly, the sales volumes of an individual dealer, or individual manager, and the portion of the network for which any individual or organization may have responsibility, may be made available in order that current, useful, appropriate information be made available for management and accounting purposes. In certain embodiments, the dealer portal  86  may be embodied in a web server as software, hardware, or both within the system  60 . In certain embodiments, the entire system  60  may be hosted on a single computer, wherein each module or element is simply a programmed functionality, such as a software application. 
         [0077]    The consumer portal  88  may likewise publish web pages  89  (e.g.  89   a ,  89   b ) for consumers. That is, the consumer portal  88  may allow a consumer to track purchases, scanning data from various inventories executed by a scanner  102 , product information, dealer contact information, and so forth. A consumer portal  88  may be available to all consumers in general, specific consumers having authorization, or a combination thereof, as allocated by software, security, rights, and so forth. 
         [0078]    In certain embodiments, a modem server  84  may provide a bank of modems for access by computers connecting through a telecommunications network  69 . Accordingly, a modem server  84  may be operable within the system  60  through the telecommunication or wide area network interface  68 . 
         [0079]    Referring to  FIG. 3 , one embodiment of the system  60  may include a user-interface host  100  connecting over a telecommunications network  69  to a telecommunications interface  68 . In some embodiments, the interface  68  may be referred to as a wide area network (WAN) interface  68 . Accordingly, the user interface  100  may be a computer, such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or other processor. In certain presently contemplated embodiments, the user-interface  100  may be a portable, digital computer dedicated to the control and operation of the scanner  102 . 
         [0080]    The scanner  102  may be configured in accordance with the technology in U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354 to Gellerman et. al. incorporated herein by reference. The scanner  102  directs a radiation beam  103  in a suitable spectrum onto a subject  104 . A subject  104  may be, for example, the skin of a hand or arm of a prospective consumer. Due to Raman-Scattering, a shifted wavelength of light is returned from the input spectrum  103 , as a beam  104 . The beam  104  is accordingly detected by the scanner  102  and the data from the detector is processed accordingly, as discussed herein below. 
         [0081]    In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 3 , a user-interface host  100  connects by a telecommunication interface  68  directly to the system  60 . Thus, in this embodiment, the information provided by the scanner to the host  100  is received by the system  60  over a direct line, rather than over a less-secure Internet  62 . 
         [0082]    Meanwhile, a consumer computer  106  may connect to the Internet  62  in order to access from the system  60  the consumer portal  88 . For example, the system  60  may engage through an Internet service provider  64  to publish web pages  89  over a consumer portal  88  on the Internet  62 . These web pages  89  may be accessed by a consumer through the consumer&#39;s computer  106 . 
         [0083]    Similarly, a dealer computer  108  in possession of a dealer in nutritional supplements, for example, can connect to the Internet  62  in order to access a dealer portal  86 . The dealer portal  86  may provide to the dealer computer  108  the volumes and genealogy programs  87  or the volumes of genealogy data  87  to which the dealer is entitled. Similarly, in the web pages  89  that the dealer should see may be published over the Internet  62  as part of the dealer portal  86  accessible to the dealer computer  108 . 
         [0084]    In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 3 , the system  60  may be configured with any connection scheme described with respect to  FIG. 2 . Nevertheless, for the sake of illustration, the illustration of  FIG. 3  shows the database  70  as a “centerpiece” of the system  60 , receiving and exchanging information with the enterprise resource planning system  90  and the royalty system  92 . Similarly, the database exchanges information with the commission system  94  and the consumer portal  88 . Intervening applications or connections may be implemented as appropriate. 
         [0085]    In the illustrated embodiment, the dealer portal  86  may have access to the commission system  94  in order to publish to authorized dealers the information for which those dealers are authorized. Some methods of security may be implemented in a typical system  60  in order to provide secure access by only those entitled to receive it. 
         [0086]    Similarly, the authorization server  80  may be connected over a line  109   a  to the telecommunication interface  68 . Similarly, the uploaded data server  76  may be connected over a line  109   b  to the telecommunication interface  68 . Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, representing one option, the authorization server  80  is connected to exchange information with the certificate distribution server  82  as well as with the uploaded data files server  76 . 
         [0087]    In this illustrated embodiment, the authorization server  80  connects to the database  70  and the certificate distribution server  82  and the uploaded data server  76 , do not. Nevertheless, depending on the allocation of responsibilities between the database engine  72  and the authorization server  80 , as well as the other servers  76 ,  78 ,  82 , a suitable connection scheme and management scheme may be used to optimize the flow of data, the processing thereof, and the serving of appropriate information. 
         [0088]    In the illustrated embodiment, the modem server  84  is directly connected by the line  109 C to the telecommunication interface  68 . In some embodiments, a modem server  84  may operate as a telecommunication interface  68 , providing a bank of modems. Calls through multiple lines  69  offer access to a variety of user-interface hosts computers  100 . 
         [0089]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , in an alternative embodiment, the system  60  may connect strictly through the Internet  62 . That is, consumer computers  106 , and dealer computers  108  may access the Internet  62  in order to obtain access to the respective portals  88 ,  86  of the system  60 . In yet another alternative embodiment, the consumer computer  106  and the dealer computer  108  may either one or both be connected through the telecommunication interface  68  to the system  60 . However, with the ubiquitous presence of the Internet  62 , along with the ability to cache web pages  89  locally, certain efficiencies accrue to publication of web pages  89  by the system  60  over the Internet  62  for the benefit of consumer computers  106  and dealer computers  108 . 
         [0090]    In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 4 , the user-interface host  100  connects to the system  60  through the Internet  62 . In this embodiment, the system  60  may still host physically the information of the dealer portal  86  and the consumer portal  88  within the physical hardware at a central location of a system  60 . The user-interface host  100  thus connects to deliver data from the scanner  102  to the system  60  through the Internet  62 . 
         [0091]    In general, the user-interface host  100  may be a general purpose digital computer. In other embodiments, the user-interface host  100  may be a special purpose computer. It may be programmed specifically to do only the functions allocated to it, and to be disabled from performing other functions. In this way, the host  100  may become a special purpose digital computer of limited capacity for purposes of security, control, license requirements, or the like. 
         [0092]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , in yet another alternative embodiment, the system  60  may connect through a telecommunication interface  68  to one or more user-interface hosts  100   a , supporting a scanner  102   a  for scanning a subject  104   a . By the same token, the user-interface host  100   b  may connect through the Internet  62  and an ISP  64  in order to access the system  60 . Many consider the Internet  62 , absent appropriate measures, to be less secure than a direct line  69 . Thus, in order obtain equivalent security, connecting through the Internet  62  may require additional software, signatures, and the like. 
         [0093]    For simplicity, many prefer the direct dial system through a dedicated telecommunications line  69  to the telecommunication interface  68 . Nevertheless, connecting through the Internet  62 , as illustrated for the user-interface host  100   b , is nevertheless a tractable option. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumer portal  88  and the dealer portal  86  may actually be connected to the Internet  62  at a location different from the majority of the hardware, software, or both of the system  60 . In this embodiment, the dealer portal  86  and consumer portal  88  may actually be mere cache images published to local servers, in order to minimize the cost, complexity, time, and unreliability that may otherwise be encountered with global connections. 
         [0094]    Thus, the dealer portal  86  and consumer portal  88  may actually be caches of identical or caches of a portion of another portal  86 ,  88  actually physically located within the system  60 . Again, not illustrated here is the option wherein either the consumer computer  106 , the dealer computer  108 , or both connect through the telecommunication interface  68  in order to access the embedded dealer portal  86  or consumer portal  88  of the system  60 , as illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0095]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , a process  110  for implementing certificates may provide a mechanism for compensation to dealers, operators of scanners  102 , and others involved in the enterprise of taking inventories of the constitution of the skin of subject (potential consumers, consumers, etc.). The invention may provide motivation for the purchase of appropriate nutritional supplements. Sellers (dealers) of the supplements, the managers of dealers, the inventors of the scanner  102 , and the suppliers of the nutritional supplements, and so forth may benefit by providing certifications. A certificate may be implemented in order to reallocate the cost of operating the scanner  102 . 
         [0096]    For example, a subject  104  may desire to have a scan conducted in order to determine the antioxidant or carotenoid content of one&#39;s skin. On the other hand, a dealer may be motivated to pay for the cost of a scan, in the hope of, or out of the proceeds of, a sale of nutritional supplements calculated to increase the antioxidant or carotenoid content of the subject&#39;s skin. Accordingly, a certificate may be purchased by a dealer. Likewise, certificates may be purchased by an operator of a scanner  102 . Likewise, certificates may be produced by a manufacturer, supplier, or other purveyor of nutritional supplements as a motivation of the marketing chain. 
         [0097]    Accordingly, a party having the resources and control, or simply the authorization or contractual opportunity to pay, an operator of a scanner  102 , may generate  112  a certificate. According to any desired scheme, whether for direct cash payment, as a motivation for sales, as a reward, as a stimulant to re-purchase, as a reward for sales volumes, as a part of compensation, or otherwise, one may distribute  114  certificates to consumers, dealers, managers, operators, or the like. 
         [0098]    In one embodiment, a supplier of nutritional supplements may generate  112  certificates. The generator (supplier) will compensate an operator of a scanner  102  according to the number of those certificates that are redeemed by the operator, and submitted back to the supplier. In another embodiment, an operator may purchase certificates as a mechanism for distribution  114 . The operator may sell them directly to subjects  104 , as a product in and of themselves. 
         [0099]    Similarly, a dealer may purchase certificates in order to seed the market, knowing that some number of those certificates will result in scans that result in sales of nutritional supplements. Thus, by any and all appropriate methods, distribution  114  of certificates ultimately results in redeeming  116  those certificates. 
         [0100]    When a certificate is redeemed  116 , a subject  104  may provide  118  certain subject data relating thereto. For example, at the time of redemption  116 , the certificate number may be provided. The certificate number allows for linking together a subject  104 , and the scanner  102  or operator thereof that takes the scan, as well as the distribution  114  that obtained the certificate originally. Similarly, a subject  104  may provide demographic data that can be useful in targeting marketing, tracking trends, and observing the ultimate influence of nutritional supplements on populations and individuals. Likewise, identification data may be provided  118  by a subject  104  in order to positively identify a particular subject  104 . 
         [0101]    In certain embodiments, providing  118  subject data may be more or less intrusive. That is, the least intrusive collection might be some minimum amount of identification data associated with a certificate number. In other embodiments, long questionnaires with detailed data may be provided. In some embodiments, part of the purpose of motivation provided by a certificate may be the motivation to provide  118  the desired data. In other embodiments, the motivation to be provided by the certificate may reside more with an interest in one&#39;s personal score related antioxidant (e.g. carotenoid) to content of the skin. 
         [0102]    Thus, at redemption  116 , a scanner operator may conduct  120  a scan of a subject (person). After appropriate processing of the information by the host computer  100 , an output  122  or receipt of results by a user provides a number. The number or score corresponds to the subject&#39;s carotenoid content in the skin. The output  122  may simply be a number to be compared with previous or subsequent scans of the same subject  104 . In alternative embodiments, the output  122  may provide comparisons between a population at large, a world population, a comparative demographic population, or the like. Accordingly, the output  122  may provide motivation to a subject  104  to use nutritional supplements in order to effect the values of the output  122 . 
         [0103]    Ultimately, over a long or short period of time, the output  122  may result in a motivation to place  130  an order. Typically, and as shown in brackets as an option, placement  130  may be that of a recurring order. That is, a subject  104  may purchase a single order of product or may purchase a subscription for continuing delivery of product on a particular schedule. 
         [0104]    Accordingly, upon placement  130  of an order for a delivery or a subscription for delivery of a product, the process  110  may assign  132  an identification to a user. Likewise, the system  110  or process  110  may obtain input  134  of information related to the subject  134 . At this point, more information may reasonably be required, or expected, as the level of commitment to the results of the output  122  is exhibited. 
         [0105]    In certain embodiments, the assignment  132  of an identification may include assignment of a user or consumer identification number. Similarly, dealers, operators, and the like may also have identification numbers that permit the database  70  to relate and track the activities of persons and organizations with respect to the operation of scanners  102  and the distribution of products. 
         [0106]    In response to placement  130  of an order, packaging  136  of product consequently occurs, typically with a periodicity appropriate thereto. For example, a monthly shipment of product or a shipment keyed on a number of days, may correspond to the quantity of a daily supply of product provided. As part of packaging  136 , or possibly as an independent activity, inclusion  138  of a certificate may occur periodically. 
         [0107]    For example, a certificate may be bundled in the packaging  136  of a product shipment to a consumer (subject  104 ). Likewise, product may be packaged  136  in one manner and the certificate inclusion  138  may actually be conducted by another. Certificates may move by mail, e-mail, facsimile, or the like. Thus, the periodicity of packaging  136  of a shipment, and the inclusion  138  or the distribution  138  of a certificate may be linked, may be synchronous, may be non-synchronous, but may actually be physically packaged  136  together. 
         [0108]    Upon shipment  140  of a product to a customer, records may be updated  142  on a regular basis. Updating  142  may include records associated with not only the purchaser  104 , but with the dealer involved, the management structure associated with the dealer, the originator of the certificate distributed  114 , the scanner operator involved, and so forth. 
         [0109]    If the placement  130  of an order can be by subscription, then the test  144  determines whether or not the order is to be repeated. If so, then after a delay period  146 , preparation  148  of a communication or promotional material may occur. Ultimately, on schedule, processing  149  of order information results in packaging  136  of the next shipment. Again, inclusion  138  of an additional certificate may be on a corresponding schedule. For example, in one embodiment, every alternate shipment may receive inclusion  138  of a certificate. Thus, after two shipment cycles, a subject  104  may obtain a pre-test in order to verify that the nutritional supplements have indeed resulted in a different score as an output  122  of the scanning  120 . 
         [0110]    Optionally, preparation  148  of communications or promotional materials may be independent from a natural order. Thus, processing  149  of ordering information in certain embodiments may simply be processing of a proposed order in order to include it as a motivation to order. In any event, as certificates are made available, a return  124  to redemption  116  of the associated certificate may occur. The redemption  124  need not be in strict synchronization with the cycle of packaging  136  and shipping  140 . That is, an order might not be a recurring order. Similarly, orders may have been cancelled. Likewise, the return  124  may be out of schedule, even if the shipment  140  or inclusion  138  of a certificate is on schedule. Moreover, a certificate may actually be given to a customer that does not have the need for a repeat of the scan  120  on schedule. Thus, in general, the return  124  may occur regularly as a result of motivation of an individual, and the availability of certificates, but may also take on a schedule of it&#39;s own, according to the convenience of a subject  104 . 
         [0111]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , a process  150  for the development of a network of individuals in a multi-level marketing organization may begin with the development  152  of contacts who may be approached at some point. Accordingly, a dealer or manager in a marketing organization may set  154  appointments in advance or impromptu in order to conduct demonstrations  156 . Demonstrations may occur in numerous areas. Likewise, a single demonstration may include different types of information in a single demonstration  156 . 
         [0112]    For example, in a method and apparatus in accordance with the invention, a demonstration  156  may include demonstration of an array of nutritional supplement products or the like. Likewise, a demonstration  156  may involve presentation of information related to the manufacturer, the marketing organization, the compensation system, or the like. Similarly, a demonstration  156  may include a demonstration of a scanner  102 , along with the compensation system whereby an operator may operate a scanner  102  as a service. The service may be a standalone service, or may be provided in conjunction with sales of product. 
         [0113]    Thus, as a result of a demonstration  156 , various opportunities may be provided to attendees or participants in the demonstration  156 . For example, a test  158  determines whether or not the demonstration  156  results in the sign up of a customer. If so, then a dealer may facilitate  160  the order. Since a method and apparatus in accordance with the invention may be embodied in various ways, facilitating  160  an order may involve assisting a customer to navigate the Internet, filling out an order form, logging on to a direct dial connection, or other mechanism for placing an order. Accordingly, a dealer may facilitate  160  the placement of an order by any suitable mechanism implemented over the Internet, by a direct dial connection, on paper, by telephone, or the like. 
         [0114]    If the demonstration  156  results in signing a dealer, then the test  162  results in a dealer facilitating  164  enrollment on the new dealer. That is, a customer or consumer may be enrolled by facilitating  164  enrollment of that customer as a dealer by any of the mechanisms available. For example, paper, e-mail, Internet browser access, direct dial access, or the like, or some combination thereof, may be used for enrollment. Accordingly, one conducting a demonstration  156  may use any and all available methods as appropriate to facilitate  164  the enrollment of a new dealer. 
         [0115]    If the demonstration  156  results in signing up an operator, the test  166  results in facilitating  168  enrollment of an operator. Facilitating  168  may involve a number of steps, including obtaining access to a scanner  102  in order to conduct scans. Similarly, with some degree of training, some degree of commitment, contracting, or the like, may be appropriate. Accordingly, over a direct line connection, the Internet, through paper, or the like, an individual demonstration  156  may facilitate  168  enrollment of an operator. 
         [0116]    Consequently, participation  170  within a program, as a customer, as a dealer, as an operator, or any combination thereof, is contemplated. In any event, suppliers can provide product, sales materials, information, and devices, in order to participate  170  as a customer, dealer, operator, or combination thereof. 
         [0117]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , a method and apparatus in accordance with the invention may include a service core  180 . In order to operate the system  60 , entities data  182  may be maintained by the database  70 . Entities data  182  may include information regarding dealers, operators, customers, licensors, manufacturers, suppliers, and others. Accordingly, identification information, locations, contact information, as well as other business information and financial information may prove useful or necessary to complete the data  182 . 
         [0118]    Relationship data  184  may be some of the most important. That is, dealers, customers, operators, and the like, often times operate together, or have various relationships that result in business connections, financial connections or the like. Accordingly, relationship data  184  may include genealogy (multi-level marketing relationship lines, etc., for example), rank (e.g., based on organizational size, depth, production volume, etc.) of an individual or entity on which compensation (for example) may be based. Licensure, including licensors and licensees, contracts, and other information may be included in relationship data  184 . The relationship data  184  is particularly important for communication and for compensation. 
         [0119]    Sales data  186  may include dates of events, such as presentations, sales, scans, and the like. Likewise, the data  186  may include product identification, volume amounts of particular products, a normalized volume amount that relates more to dollar volume, and cumulative data over various periods of interest in sales or other activity. Similarly, sales data  186  may include scanner identification, customer identification, certificate numbers, dealer identification, and other information that may assist in relating sales to entities  182  and relationships  184 . 
         [0120]    Likewise, volume data  188  may be thought of as any and all information that may be useful in determining sales performance of individuals and entities. Since relationship data  184  includes genealogy relationships between dealers in the organization, the volume data  188  associated with each of those individuals may depend on those relationships. For example, the commission for a sale directly to a consumer dealer may be a higher, typically, than a commission paid to that same dealer on the same sale. 
         [0121]    Nevertheless, as volumes increase within a particular dealer or manager&#39;s organization, the rates of compensation for volumes may increase, as an incentive. Thus, the volume data  188  may be dated that operates as intermediate information from sales data  186  to identify key information that may be required for compensation schemes and schedules. Volume data  188  may be the inputs, outputs, or both for compensation equations. The volume data  188  may be raw data, or may be intermediate data incorporating both sales data  186  and relationship data  184 , or may be a combination thereof. 
         [0122]    Inasmuch as marketing is becoming a global enterprise, currency data  189  may be important. For example, in the service call  180 , currency data  189  will be needed in order to provide compensation between individuals or other entities who have relationships defined by the relationship data  184  that span different countries. For example, Asia has several currencies. Similarly, Europe has had various currencies, although it is now trying to standardize on the Euro. 
         [0123]    Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for individuals to have contacts across national boundaries and language boundaries, due to the availability of travel, and the communication of language. Thus, Latin American countries may have relationships spanning one or more countries. Similarly, dealers or others within the United States may have relationships with Europeans, Asians, Africans, Latin Americans, and so forth. Thus, the currency data  189  and the service call  180  provides for manipulation of compensation schemes in order to account for credits of payments in proper currencies. 
         [0124]    The data  182 ,  184 ,  186 ,  188 ,  189  may be maintained in the database  70 . Nevertheless, presentation systems  190  are typically required in order to provide presentation graphics, data, formatting thereof, and the like. Accordingly, a presentation engine  192  may be programmed to provide presentation data  194  to any visitor to a consumer portal  88  or a dealer portal  86 . Similarly, any individual access to the system  60  for any reason, and by any mechanism, may need to have presentation of information. 
         [0125]    Likewise, the user-interface host  100  requires a presentation engine  192  in order to interact with an operator. The presentation data  194  may be thought of as including formatting  196 , and content  198 . Typically, content  198  is often the subject of database storage. In other embodiments, formatting information  196  may also be included in the database  70 . The sophistication of the database records  74  may be increased or decreased, according to exactly how much presentation data  194  and which types (e.g., formats  196 , vs. content  198 ) will be included therein. 
         [0126]    Likewise, processing systems  200  are important for handling information transfer. For example, a database engine  72  often contains very sophisticated programming in a number of different library or other executable programs in order to intake, output, and manage database records  74 . Some of the requirements presently contemplated for a processing system  200  may include a processing engine  202  that is programmed to process information. Some of the information to be processed may include financial information  204  and report information  206 . 
         [0127]    For example, financial information  204  may include raw data, partially processed data, personal data, and the like for any individual consumer, dealer, organizational person, entity, or the like. Similarly, report information  206  may include information regarding sales volumes, current multi-level marketing network affiliations and individuals, and the like. Thus, the processing engine&#39;s operating on financial information  204 , report information  206 , or other information that should be presented to management, consumers, dealers, licensors, or the like, may be managed by various processing engines  202 . Similarly, the financial information  204 , or report information  206 , may be raw data or finished data, and thus may be the same as database records  74 , or processed further for output as content  198  by presentation engines  192 . 
         [0128]    Typically, Internet systems available widely benefit from a security system  210 . Executables  212  or algorithms  212  implementing security may operate in accordance with data  214  such as passwords, rights, classifications or classes of entities and individuals, classes of information, and the like. Thus, a security system  210  may execute algorithms  212  in order to verify, obtain, or operate in accordance with data  214  on which a security system  210  depends. 
         [0129]    Referring to  FIG. 9 , a process  220  for managing compensation may include recording  222  data corresponding to various entities. That is, whenever any dealer is enrolled, a customer places an order for product or a subscription for product, or when an operator is enrolled, data may be recorded  222  in order to identify, manage, support, and compensate that entity. 
         [0130]    Likewise, recording  224  relationship data  184  may be conducted before or after the recording  222  of entity data. Nevertheless, since entities are typically known first, and relationships develop thereafter, relationship data  224  may be recorded  224  simultaneously or subsequent to the recording  222  of entity data  182 . 
         [0131]    Input  226  of currency data may include initial input  226  as well as updates  226  of currency data  189 . Inputs  228 , including subsequent updates  228  of sales data  186  may be input as necessary, and appropriate. Determining  230  volumes of sales by dealers and entities is a processing operation to calculate sales volumes that will determine compensation, based on an individual entity as identified in the entity data  182 , other related entities, relationship data  184  relating the entities together, and the sales data  186  giving rise to the sales and subsequent compensation. Accordingly, determining  230  the volume data  188  sets the stage for allocating  232  financial distributions. Financial distributions may include payments  234  to dealers, allocations  236  to operators, allocations  238  to licensors, payments  240  to manufacturers, payments  242  to suppliers, and so forth. Similarly, credits  244  may be made to customers as a result of purchase volumes in some compensation systems. Similarly, all other distributions  246  may similarly be allocated  232  based on the available volumes  230 . 
         [0132]    Likewise, in certain embodiments, certain accounts may be credited  248 , rather than making payments immediately. For example, allocating  232  may be thought of as the process of determining financial transfers in accordance with the determination  230  of the determination  230  of the volumes associated with various entities  182 . At some point, accounts must be credited  248  in accordance with the allocations  232 . 
         [0133]    Therefore, ultimately, statements may be generated  250 . Statements may be generated  250  on some periodic schedule, such as monthly. Accordingly, the total credits  252  and the currency conversion  254  may be selected as of the date of crediting  248 , or the date of the generation  250  of the statement. Any suitable and equitable process, that can be managed in view of currency fluctuations, may be implemented in the timing and conversion of crediting  248 , totaling  252  the credits, and conversion  254  of currencies. 
         [0134]    Ultimately, distribution  256  of payments is hoped for by all of those laboring in the enterprise. Accordingly, distribution  256  may be by electronic, paper, or cash mechanisms, as well as others. For example, sometimes, distribution  256  may be taken in product, rather than cash. Thus, one may inventory credits in product, rather than taking pay-outs in cash. For example, product given away as a promotional item, thus does not show up except as an inventory flow. In a largely electronic system, distributing  256  of payments may actually occur by wire transfers between accounts. Online banking is being promoted by financial institutions to reduce paper, and to reduce the labor associated with processing paper. Accordingly, distribution  256  may be partially or entirely by financial credits to electronic accounts by financial institutions. 
         [0135]    Referring to  FIG. 10 , a user-interface host  100  or simply a host  100  may operate in conjunction with a scanner  102  as a system  260  for taking a survey or inventory of the hand, arm or other part of the skin of a subject  104 . The subject  104  is typically a prospective consumer. The details of operation of the scanner  102  are disclosed by Gellerman (U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,354). A simplified schematic will suffice here. In general, a master processor  262  may be thought of as the CPU or processor within a host computer  100 . Typically, the master processor  262  needs to accomplish several functions. 
         [0136]    For example, a management module  264  may be programmed to execute on a processor  262  in order to manage the entire process. For example, a presentation  190  may be programmed to run on the processor  262  of the host  100 . Similarly, a processing system  200  may be programmed into the processor  262  to handle various information. In the case of the host  100 , financial information is of less consequence, and may be irrelevant. 
         [0137]    That is, primarily technical information is processed from the scanner  102 , and information available to a user is presented. Accordingly, a management module  264  may manage the order of presentation information, may include the control in order to process both the information received from the scanner  102 , and the input and output information to a user (operator). Thus, in one embodiment, the management module  264  is responsible for any of the functionality and allocation of resources of the processor  262 . 
         [0138]    Meanwhile, a user interface module  266  provides the presentation graphics, the information, the prompts, and the intake and outflow of information required to step through the sequence of events in which the host  100  and scanner  102  operate together. Similarly, a detector module  268  may be allocated any or all of the processing of information coming from the scanner  102 , as well as processing the information to be provided to the user interface module  266  as output. 
         [0139]    The architecture of the master processor  262  as shown is in a very gross format. Numerous details are discussed later with respect to  FIG. 13 . Nevertheless, as a general proposition, the detector module  268  is responsible for data processing of information coming from the scanner  102 . The user-interface module  266  is responsible for information presented to and retrieved from an operator. The management module  264  may control the operation of the processor  262 , including control of the sequence of events conducted by the scanner  102 . Thus, the management module  264  may be programmed to provide management of the interface between the user, the host  100 , and the scanner  102 . 
         [0140]    A user-interface  270  may include any input and output systems reasonably required or helpful for an operator to interact with the host  100 . For example, keyboards, a mouse, data input and output devices, drives, screens, printers, and the like, may all be used in suitable arrangement as input, output, or both devices for interacting with an operator. 
         [0141]    In general, a scanner  102  includes a laser source  272 , which may be provided by any suitable means. For example, lasers may be large or small. Light emitting diodes can produce laser light. A laser source  272  may have some degree of control embedded in it or connected with it by way of a controller  274  or controller  100 . Nevertheless, typically, a laser source  272  may have some degree of local low level physical control embodied in a controller  274  directly associated or embedded therewith. Other hardware in the scanner  102  or the host  100  may provide additional instructions at a higher level to control the controller  274 . 
         [0142]    Eventually, the laser source  272  is controlled by signals received through a port  276  connecting the host  100  to the scanner  102 . The module  264  may handle inputs, outputs, or both of the controller  274 . Meanwhile, the laser source  272  projects a beam  278  to a director  280 . The director  280  may or may not be necessary in various embodiments. In several embodiments, a splitter mirror may operate as a director  280  in order to pass the beam  278  through to become a beam  282  impinging on a subject  184 . 
         [0143]    As a result of the beam  282  striking the subject  184 , a re-radiated or scattering beam (e.g. according to Raman scattering principles) returns as a beam  284  redirected by the director  280 . The director  280  directs the beam  284  to become a beam  286  impinging on a director  288 . Many intervening pathways, splitters, directors, filters, polarizing elements, and the like, may be implemented to meet the optical requirements of the beams  278 ,  282 ,  284 ,  286 , any derivatives thereof, or contributions thereto. Again, the Gellerman patent provides additional details of various embodiments for implementing a scanner  102 . 
         [0144]    Ultimately, a beam  286  impinges on a detector  288  providing a representation or signal output corresponding to intensities and frequencies of energy contained in the beam  286 . As with the controller  274  on the laser source  272 , the detector  288  typically will have some low level hardware controller  292  connected thereto in order to facilitate communication with other hardware within the scanner  102 , the host  100 , or both. 
         [0145]    The detector  288  provides a signal  289  that may pass through a pre-processor  290 . That is, depending on the sophistication desired to be programmed into hardware, firmware, or software within the scanner  102  proper, a pre-processor  290  may execute analysis of the information that is output as raw electrical signals  289  from the detector  288 . Typically, a pre-processor  290  may include functions such as sampling, smoothing, filtering, and the like. Information from a pre-processor  290  is ultimately passed to the host  100 , and specifically to the detector module  268 . The detector module  268  is responsible for processing data originating with the detector  288 . Again, the schematic of the system  260  of  FIG. 10  is for logical and gross representation of the functionality. Many separate components in multitudinous arrangements can be used to implement the functional requirements of the system  260  in order to provide a reading. That reading or output may be characterized as a body defense score (BDS) corresponding to the carotenoid content in the subject  104 . 
         [0146]    In general, the device of Gellerman is directed toward detection of carotenoids in the skin. Nevertheless, other systems  260  may scan different parts of subjects  104 , including other tissues, and the like. Thus, although one embodiment of an apparatus and method in accordance with the invention would include a licensure of the Gellerman technology for implementation in the system  260  as the scanner  102 , other technologies may also be applied in other embodiments. 
         [0147]    Referring to  FIG. 11 , a process  300  may control the scanner  102  and host  100  from a business perspective. For example, as discussed hereinabove, the system  60  may assert control over authorization received  302  in order to facilitate operation of the host  100  and scanner  102 . In certain embodiments, the host  100  may be a dedicated computer. That is, it may be programmed with only a sufficient operating system and software to operate the scanner  102 , and to interface with the operator and with the system  60 . The host may have limited software by way of a connection to the Internet  62  or a telecommunication interface  68 . 
         [0148]    After receiving  302  authorization, an operator may operate  304  the scanner  102 . The scanner  102 , in the process of generating information to pass through the port  276  to the host  100 , may receive subsequent programming, control, and the like. Meanwhile, the host  100  will log  306  all data in an appropriate order. That is, depending on the pre-processor  290 , raw data may be logged. Processed data may also be logged. 
         [0149]    Similarly, data may be logged from user information, subject information, and so forth. Ultimately, in the process of operating a scanner  102  and processing the information provided thereby, the host  100  will output  308  results of value to the subject. The results may be described graphically, in text, symbols, and the like. In one embodiment, the output  308  may occur by way of a graph. 
         [0150]    In an alternative embodiment, that may be used in associated with such a graph, or independently, or instead of a graph, a number called a body defense score (BDS) may be output for a subject (potential customer, customer) to use for comparison with subsequent and previous BDS outputs received. In certain embodiments, a BDS of an individual may be compared to a BDS of a particular population in general, a world population, or a comparison standard of some particular type. 
         [0151]    Data and machinery are most reliable and best for comparison when used under virtually identical circumstances with a minimum of changes in operating variables. That is, in general, a BDS output for an individual is best compared with a subsequent or previous BDS output from the same machine, rather than changing times, persons, machines, conditions all at once, and the like. Typical engineering principles recommend minimizing the number of altered conditions. Nevertheless, as data is collected and processed, more comparisons and more meaningful comparisons may be made. However, as a motivation for a subject  104  to participate in purchasing and ingesting nutritional supplements, a subject  104  need only receive an output  308  of a BDS number corresponding to relative amounts of carotenoids detected in the tissues (e.g., skin of the user). Lest false negative correlations or data result, however, machines should be reliably and repeatably operable and so calibrated. 
         [0152]    A reset step  310  may involve simply setting up the host  100  to run a scan for another individual, or may involve shutting off the machine between multiple days or other periods of operation. A test  312  may determine whether or not a user (operator) desires to upload data that has been logged  306  during a previous particular time period or session. Sessions may be timed, numbered, or the like. That is, a session may be defined as a certain number of scans. Similarly, a session may be defined as a period of time during which the host  100  and scanner  102  are programmed to operate. 
         [0153]    Ultimately, much or all data logged  306  is logged  306  with the intent to be uploaded. Accordingly, if the machine  260 , or the operator determines to upload  314  data to the file server  109 , the system  60  may on its own or through the host  100  check  316  for the status of regarding authorization. If authorization is okay, the test  318  results in a return to operation  304 . Since authorization has been received, renewed, or otherwise activated. 
         [0154]    If, on the other hand, the check  316  results in a revocation of authorization, or detects that an authorization time or number has been exceeded, then the test  318  may result in an end  320  to a session. The end  320  may result in the end of all operation of the scanner  102 , host  100 , or both. 
         [0155]    One purpose for continuing checks  316  of authorization is that use is a proper licensing measurement for a patented invention. The scanner  102  may be sold, but also may be used, with throughput as a licensing measurement (metric). Accordingly, authorization can be checked  316  in order to verify that a machine  102  is being operated within its licensing authority. If the test  312 , whether done manually, mentally, by virtue of programming within the host  100  results in no upload  314 , then session authorization must still continue to be valid or operation ceases. If the session authorization is not valid, then a test  322  will typically permit only upload  314  operations. That is, if a user has not determined to reauthorize timely, or a corresponding prompt has been denied, then the test  312  may result in only one option, uploading  314 , since the authorization tests out as invalid in the test  322 . 
         [0156]    Similarly, the check  316  for the status regarding re-authorization may include reporting back to the system  60  in order to verify the authorization status, whether new authorizations need to be granted, and the like. Ultimately, the process  300  results in several valuable functions. Examples are logging  306  data, outputting  308  results to a subject to provide motivation and progress reporting, uploading  314  data to the system  60  from the host  100 , and testing  322  for authorization provide control by the system  60  of the remote operation of the scanner  102  and host  100 . 
         [0157]    However, implementation details may vary widely. Sequences of events may vary widely. Whether a single machine, multiple machines, a single software package, multiple software packages, a single machine instruction, or a massive multi-media package are involved, the illustrated logical functionality of the system may accomplish the valuable functions with the desired minimum or maximum fanfare, splash, ease, presentation graphics, and so forth. 
         [0158]    Referring to  FIG. 12 , operation methods  324  for the scanner  260  may include powering up  326  or turning on  326  the scanner  102 . Although certain calibrations occur during manufacture, field calibration  328  may be valuable with each test, or each power up event  326 , or periodically over time. Ultimately, field calibration  328  may be required by an operator, or calibration may simply be a hidden and automated process. In some embodiments, the field calibration  328  may be executed by an operator with test samples (surrogate subjects) for measuring the operation, noise, scale, and the like of the scanner  102 . 
         [0159]    In other embodiments, a scanner  102  may have embedded within it, certain test samples, sequence of events, and a means to illuminate and test calibrated samples in order to set calibration factors. Nevertheless, by whatever means, a field calibration  328  may improve the accuracy and repeatability of readings over time, through different environmental conditions, across different subjects, and so forth. 
         [0160]    In general, presentation  330  of a subject may or may not involve presentation of a certificate, shown in brackets as an optional step. That is, a subject may walk into a nutritional supplement or other type store and request a scan to be done as a service at a price. Alternatively, a certificate may be paid for by a party seeking to motivate a subject to obtain a scan and purchase products. The certificate may substitute as financial consideration. The certificate identification provides a traceable number or other symbol for identifying the obligations and payments associated with performing a scan. 
         [0161]    The host  100  provides prompts  332 . The prompts  332  may include various commands or images to direct the user, subject, or both. For example, indications of starting, locating a subject, or moving a subject&#39;s hand or arm closer, further, laterally about, in order to obtain a proper and reliable scan may be provided through prompts  332 . Similarly, an operator may be provided indications of steps, waiting periods, operations to be conducted, keys to be struck, and other actions to be taken during, before, after, or in relation to the operation of the scanner. For example, prompted operational sequences may include operation of the scanner  102  as well as interaction with the SCG system  60 , or even the sequence of dialing up the home system  60  in order to upload data. 
         [0162]    Similarly, browsers, wizards, menus, steps through processes, and the like, may all be implemented with prompts  332  in order to reduce the level of complexity, and the degree of training required. In certain embodiments, the problems  332  may be largely graphical in order to transcend languages, and provide universal information. 
         [0163]    A fundamental purpose of the scanner  102  is to scan  334  a subject  104 . Accordingly, the scanner  102 , among other processes, may illuminate the subject, detect a response (illumination re-radiating or scattering back according to the Raman scattering theory from the subject  104 ), to provide a detectible result. With delivery of data by the scanner  102  into the host  100 , data may be recorded, and the process may be repeated any specified number of times. That is, any given scan  334  of an individual subject  104  may actually involve multiple scans. In one embodiment,  30  scans may be taken over a period of less than 30 seconds in order to get a statistically significant sample of intensities at multiple frequencies across various pixels of a CCD (charge coupled device) or other detector  288 . 
         [0164]    Similarly, the host  100  will process  336  the information in conjunction with the scanner  102 . That is, some pre-processing may occur in a pre-processor  290 . Ultimately, filtering may occur within the beams  278 ,  282 ,  284 ,  286 , or in signals  289  received from the detector  288 . Similarly, filtering may occur through applying software to data. Accordingly, data may be adjusted or filtered or the like. Similarly, data may be fit to a curve in order to provide a statistically reliable integration of the multiple laser scans accomplished within a single scan  334  of a subject  104 . That is, multiple scans by a laser source  272  and detector  288  in conjunction with one another actually results in what would be termed a scan  334  of an individual subject  104 . 
         [0165]    Accordingly, once the data has been fitted, then extraction of the target frequency data may be more useful. That is, after filtering of noise and background, and reducing data by a general curve or histogram of intensities across all frequencies, a frequency of particular interest in detection of carotenoids may be isolated. Accordingly, extraction of data in the target frequency most commonly associated with the Raman scattering or other scattering technique that might be used by a scanner  102 , may result in an ability to evaluate the intensity. Of most interest is the base and peak values, for example, of a particular portion of the charted intensity. 
         [0166]    One objective is the correlation of the data to a score that is repeatable and meaningful to a subject  104 . Accordingly, the correlation process and output on the BDS score or other meaningful output to a user may be part of the processing  336  of the significant data. Thus, an output  338  of a body defense score or other output metric may be done by a printed writing, a displayed image on a screen, a picture, a graph, or the like. If a new subject  104  is to be scanned, then a test  340  may return the process  324  to present  330  subject for scanning. Otherwise, the system may be shut down and end  342  its operation. 
         [0167]    Referring to  FIG. 13 , a user-interface host  100 , used to interface a scanner  102  to the global compensation system  60 , may be implemented using a laptop, notebook, personal digital assistant, such as a Palm Pilot or Ipaq, a digital tablet, or other dedicated computing device. In certain embodiments, the user-interface host  100  is an independent computing device that is physically separate from the scanner  102 . However, in other contemplated embodiments, the user-interface host  100  may be integrated with the scanner  102  into a single device. 
         [0168]    The user-interface host  100  may include various memory modules  14 , including volatile memory such a RAM, or more permanent memory such as ROM, or magnetic storage such as floppy disks or hard drives. Memory  14  may contain executable and operational data  352 ,  354 ,  356  effective to control and operate the scanner  102 , provide a graphical interface  358  for an operator, and communicate back to the seamless global compensation system  60 . 
         [0169]    For example, in certain embodiments, memory  14  may include an operating system  352  to perform basic system tasks, operate a file system, and provide an interface between applications and hardware components. The operating system  352  may be a common operating system  352 , such as Windows or Linux, or may be a dedicated operating system  352  designed specifically to operate the scanner  102 . 
         [0170]    In certain embodiments, memory  14  may optionally include a browser  354 . The browser  354  may be used in web-based systems to communicate with a central server  60 , or servers  60 . The browser  354  may also be used to directly communicate with a dealer portal  86 , a consumer portal  88 , or other Internet sites. 
         [0171]    In accordance with the invention, a scanner interface module  356  may be provided in memory  14  to interface with the scanner  102 . For example, a scanner interface module  356  may include a graphical user interface  358  for use by an operator. The graphical user interface  358  may display data to the operator, and may include forms or templates to receive inputs such as subject demographic information, operating variables, and the like. 
         [0172]    An initialization module  360  may be used to initialize the scanner  102  before operation. For example, an initialization module  360  may read in parameter files and initialize key coefficients and variables used to operate the scanner  102 . Some of these files may be created during a factory calibration process and copied to the user-interface host  100  upon “mating” a scanner  102  thereto. Selected files may be used while operating the scanner  102 . Since every scanner  102  may have distinct characteristics and calibration specifications, a serial number may assigned to each scanner  102 . When a scanner is operated, the serial number thereof may be compared to serial numbers stored in a configuration file to ensure that files correspond to the scanner  102  connected. Moreover, the initialization module  360  may verify that a scanner  102  is compatible with a version of software used in conjunction therewith. 
         [0173]    The initialization module  360  may also initialize one or several communication ports between the user-interface host  100  and the scanner  102 : In addition, coefficients and parameters may be read from the scanner&#39;s memory for analysis on the user-interface host  100 . 
         [0174]    A status checking module  362  may be used to retrieve various status from the scanner  102 . For example, a status checking module  362  may retrieve the serial number, or other identifying value, of an attached scanner  102  to verify that the scanner  102  is the device originally initialized. Additionally, the status checking module  362  may check various status of the laser  272 , such as temperature, or may verify that the scanner  102  is sufficiently “warmed up.” Certain returned values may indicate that a scanner  102  is connected and communicating with the user-interface host  100 . Other values may indicate that operation parameters are within prescribed limits, thus ensuring that subsequent scans will return accurate and consistent data. The status checking module  362  may be primarily dedicated to checking values of key indicators at any selected point in time. 
         [0175]    A noise filtering module  364  may be used to filter noise from data gathered by a scan. For example, in certain embodiments, a “dark scan” may be used to filter noise from subject  104  scans. Raw data values collected during a dark scan may be subtracted from raw data values collected during a subject  104  scan, pixel by pixel, thereby producing a “dark corrected” scan. 
         [0176]    The noise filtering module  364  may perform a “dark scan” in response to various conditions. For example, a dark scan may be performed during a warm up period, wherein consistent results from one dark scan followed by another may be used to indicate that a scanner  102  is sufficiently warm and stable. A dark scan may also be performed whenever a scanner  102  is recalibrated. Also, a dark scan may be used if readings appear to be drifting with respect to previous readings. If drift is detected, the results of a scan may be inaccurate. In such a case, a normal scan may be repeated after performing a dark scan. 
         [0177]    A reference measuring module  366  may perform scans used in a calibration process. For example, a reference scan may establish variable and coefficient values, such that results (e.g. scores provided to scanned customers) are substantially equivalent to values that would have been produced at the factory. Various routines may be used to verify that the results are reasonably accurate when the new reference values (variable and coefficient values) are used. Other routines may verify that the scanner  102  produces repeatable results that are reasonably constant from scan to scan. If the results are not reasonably constant, the scanner  102  may be considered unreliable. In such cases, the scanner  102  may be locked down such that further scans are prevented, thereby requiring an operator to have the scanner  102  repaired. 
         [0178]    A calibration module  368  may be provided to calculate, modify, and test important parameters used in the computation of a subject score. A subject score refers to an assessment or measurement of the health of some aspect of a subject  104  (customer). For example, in accordance with the present invention, a scanner  102  may provide a score indicating the amount of carotenoids present in the skin of a subject  104 . However, the score need not refer to carotenoids, but may refer to any measurement or assessment of the health of a patient. 
         [0179]    Referring more particularly to scanning for carotenoids, the scanner  102  may compute a score, such as a body defense score of a subject  104 . In addition to raw data measured from the subject  104 , the score may be calculated using inputs generated by the factory calibration process, the reference measurements  366 , and the noise filtering  364 . Proper calibration is needed to ensure that a subject  104  is provided with a valid score. 
         [0180]    A verification module  370  may be used to verify that a scanner  102  is properly calibrated. For example, a reference material, such as a card or other material having a known concentration or level of carotenoids, may be used to calibrate the scanner  102 . The scanner  102  may be calibrated with the reference material at the factory. When recalibrated, the scanner  102  may again measure the concentration in the reference material. 
         [0181]    If the measurement is not reasonably close to the original factory reading, the scanner  102  may no longer be producing accurate and consistent results and the scanner  102  may be disabled. This will prevent further scanning and encourage the operator to have the scanner  102  repaired. Since this may be a relatively significant undertaking, it may be desirable to attempt recalibration several times before concluding that the scanner  102  is in need of repair. 
         [0182]    A subject scanning module  372  may be responsible for performing scans on subjects  104 . For example, the subject scanning module  372  may enable a normal scan on the skin of a subject&#39;s hand in order to return a body defense score. The subject scanning module  372  may also verify that the serial number from an attached scanner  102  is the same as the scanner  102  originally initialized to further ensure accuracy of the score. Various operating parameters such as temperature, laser status, and the like, may be checked to verify that the scanner  102  is ready to produce reliable data. 
         [0183]    In certain embodiments, the subject scanning module  372  may perform a pre-scan for a prescribed period, such as 20 seconds, to “bleach” the subject&#39;s skin. Next, a data acquisition scan may be performed various times, such as 3 times. A body defense score may be calculated after each scan. These scores may be averaged to produce a final body defense score. Only the final body defense score may be presented to a user or operator of the scanner  102 . However, each individual body defense score may be saved since these may provide valuable diagnostic information with respect to the functioning of the scanner  102 . 
         [0184]    Various steps may be performed for each individual scan. For example, an operation may be performed to check for scan transmission errors. The scan may also be “dark corrected” using data calculated by the noise filtering module  364 . If excessive luminescence is detected that is out of range of the scanner  102 , a scan may be aborted. If a scan is successful, data obtained therefrom may be analyzed to calculate a body defense score. A test may be performed on data received from a scan to determine if there is a significant difference in any of the 3 body defense scores of a subject  104 . If a significant difference is detected, an error message may be generated notifying an operator of the excessive spread of values. 
         [0185]    A diagnostic module  376  may be provided to diagnose problems, settings, or status of the scanner  102 . For example, a diagnostic module may determine or set a communications rate, or baud rate, of the scanner  102 . Various commands may be sent to the scanner  102  to monitor the response thereof, in order to ascertain that the scanner  102  is operating correctly. 
         [0186]    Other commands may be sent to retrieve the serial number of the scanner  102 , or to retrieve the version numbers of scanner firmware and hardware components. Yet other commands may retrieve the temperature, set integration times, set coefficients, turn a laser  272  on or off, return a recently computed body defense score, return raw data, or return peak data computed from raw data. 
         [0187]    An upload/download module  376  may function to upload subject data, such as body defense scores or demographic data, to a remote server, such as to the uploaded data files server  76 . The module  376  may further coordinate the download, from remote servers such as the software update server  78 , of newer versions of software to operate the scanner  102 . 
         [0188]    The scanner interface module  356  may be further programmed to store data  378 . Data  378  may include raw data gathered by the scanner  102 , processed data such as body defense scores and the like, and subject data, such as demographic data corresponding to each subject  104 . 
         [0189]    The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essence or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.