How is the language of free text qualifiers indicated in a Sequence Listing XML?
The language of free text qualifiers in a Sequence Listing XML is indicated using specific attributes in the root element. According to the MPEP, which cites WIPO Standard ST.26, paragraph 43, there are two relevant attributes:
- originalFreeTextLanguageCode: This attribute indicates “The language code (see reference in paragraph 9 to ISO 639-1:2002) for the single original language in which the language-dependent free text qualifiers were prepared.”
- nonEnglishFreeTextLanguageCode: This attribute is used for “The language code (see reference in paragraph 9 to ISO 63901:2002) for the NonEnglishQualifier_value elements.”
The originalFreeTextLanguageCode is optional, while the nonEnglishFreeTextLanguageCode is “Mandatory when a NonEnglishQualifier_value element is present in the sequence listing.”
These attributes ensure that the language of free text qualifiers is properly identified, which is crucial for international patent applications and proper interpretation of the sequence listing.
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Topics:
MPEP 2400 - Biotechnology,
MPEP 2413.01(E) - The "Sequence Listing Xml" Must Contain A Root Element,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure