21.   In theory, because humans are primates, the primate patent covered human cells as well.

22.   Indeed, the company contends that its patents cover the practice of directing any type of television advertising or content to specific households or demographic areas.

23.   It also contended that its patent covered medical treatments and diagnostic tests arising from this version of the gene.

24.   Katz said the patents covered a wide array of hardware and software interfaces that let telephones and computers talk to each other.

25.   Lanciano said the patent covered the transformation of any enzyme into a crystalline form.

26.   Lucent said the patents cover technology used to unclog congested data networks and control the flow of information.

27.   Many patents cover gravestones, caskets and other aspects of the funeral industry.

28.   Most patents cover devices or scientific discoveries.

29.   Nor does the patent cover a conveyor belt or a robot maid.

30.   One Fonar patent covers a method that helps doctors use MRI machines to detect cancer.