Why should examiners consider pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a) even if a reference is prior art under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(e)?

Examiners should consider pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a) even if a reference is prior art under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(e) for two main reasons: Earlier prior art date: The MPEP states, if the reference is a U.S. patent or patent application publication of, or claims benefit of, an international application, the publication of the international application…

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