To:
`
`Subject:
`
`Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. (ghansen@hh-iplaw.com)
`
`U.S. TRADEMARK APPLICATION NO. 77486429 - OMEGA ALPHA -
`OAPH 200 TMU - EXAMINER BRIEF
`
`Sent:
`
`3/9/2012 11:03:09 AM
`
`Sent As:
`
`ECOM112@USPTO.GOV
`
`Attachments: Attachment - 1
`Attachment - 2
`Attachment - 3
`Attachment - 4
`Attachment - 5
`Attachment - 6
`Attachment - 7
`Attachment - 8
`
`UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE (USPTO)
`
`(cid:160) (cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) APPLICATION SERIAL NO.(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`77486429
`
`*77486429*
`
`GENERAL TRADEMARK INFORMATION:
`http://www.uspto.gov/main/trademarks.htm
`
`(cid:160) T
`
`TAB INFORMATION:
`http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/dcom/ttab/index.html
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) CORRESPONDENT ADDRESS:
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`EUGENIA S HANSEN(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`HEMINGWAY & HANSEN LLP(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`DALLAS, TX 75201(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) MARK: OMEGA ALPHA(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) (cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) (cid:160)
`Pharmaceuticals Inc.(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) (cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) CORRESPONDENT’S
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`REFERENCE/DOCKET NO:(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`OAPH 200 TMU(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) CORRESPONDENT E-MAIL ADDRESS:(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`1700 PACIFIC AVENUE SUITE 4800
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) APPLICANT:(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`(cid:160) Omega Alpha
`
`ghansen@hh-iplaw.com
`
`

`
`EXAMINING ATTORNEY'S APPEAL BRIEF
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`I. INTRODUCTION
`
`This is an appeal from the Trademark Examining Attorney’s
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`final refusal to register applicant’s mark,
`
`OMEGA ALPHA and Design (cid:160) for(cid:160) "a list of 102(cid:160)different
`
`types of(cid:160)dietary, nutritional, and herbal
`
`supplements,"(cid:160) on the grounds that the applied-for mark consists of or includes deceptive matter in relation to
`the identified goods(cid:160) under (cid:160) Trademark Act (cid:160) §2(a), 15 U.S.C. §1052(a).[1]
`II. FACTS
`
`(cid:160) O
`
`n May 29, 2008, applicant, Omega Alpha Pharmaceuticals Inc. (hereinafter "applicant"), filed an application to
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`register the mark Omega Alpha and Design, under §1(a) of the Act, 15 U.S.C. §1051(a), on the Principal Register
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`for “ a list of 102(cid:160)different types of(cid:160)dietary, nutritional, and herbal supplements .”
`
`On October 15, 2008, examining attorney refused registration of the proposed mark, OMEGA ALPHA and
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`Design ,(cid:160) on the grounds of procedural informalities concerning the identification of goods being unacceptable,
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`the requirement of applicant’s certificate of foreign registration, (cid:160) applicant clarifying its intent to maintain both
`
`the §§1(b) and 44(e) filing basis, and a claim of ownership of a prior registration.(cid:160)
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`Applicant in its response filed April 15, 2009, amended its identification of goods, and stated that it would submit
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`a copy of its certificate of foreign registration once it was issued.(cid:160)
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`On June 4, 2009, examining attorney issued a suspension letter pending receipt of a true copy, a photocopy, a
`
`certification, or a certified copy of a foreign registration from applicant's country of origin.(cid:160)(cid:160) Also, examining
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`attorney maintained and continued the procedural requirements for an acceptable(cid:160) identification of goods, and a
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`claim of ownership of the prior registration .(cid:160) Thereafter, on December 9, 2009, examining attorney issued a
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`suspension inquiry letter inquiring as to the status of the foreign registration of the proposed mark, and notifying
`
`applicant that(cid:160) the procedural informalities were maintained and continued.(cid:160)(cid:160)
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`On April 8, 2010, applicant submitted (cid:160) a true copy(cid:160) of a foreign registration from applicant's country of origin
`
`along with an English translation.(cid:160)(cid:160) Also, applicant amended its identification of goods.
`
`Next on May 5, 2010, examining attorney accepted applicant’s amended identification of goods, and a true copy
`
`of a foreign registration from applicant's country of origin along with its English translation.(cid:160) However, applicant
`
`did not respond to the claim of ownership of the prior registration.(cid:160) Thus, a Final Refusal for registration was
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`issued requiring applicant to respond to the claim of ownership of the prior registration.
`
`(cid:160) On May 7, 2010, applicant filed a Request for Reconsideration claiming ownership of prior registration U.S.
`
`

`
`Registration No. (cid:160) 3111385.
`
`Upon further consideration(cid:160) of the proposed mark, examining attorney issued an office action on July 7, 2010,(cid:160)(cid:160)
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`on the grounds that the applied-for mark (cid:160) OMEGA ALPHA and Design (cid:160) consisted of or included deceptive
`
`matter in relation to the identified goods under Trademark Act §2(a), 15 U.S.C. §1052(a).(cid:160)(cid:160) In support of the
`
`refusal, examining attorney provided internet evidence demonstrating that the wording OMEGA in relation to
`
`dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements is(cid:160) (1) an ingredient that is important to a significant portion of the
`
`relevant consumers’ purchasing decision, and (2) Omegas such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 have specific
`
`health benefits and efficacy that affects consumers’ decision to purchase the goods listed in the application. (cid:160)
`
`Also, the identification of goods was deemed to still be unacceptable.(cid:160) See evidence attached to(cid:160) Office(cid:160) Action
`
`dated 7/10/10.
`
`Applicant responded to the office action on January 6, 2011, arguing against the substantive refusal.(cid:160) Specifically,
`
`alleging that(cid:160) (1) the term Omega is the 24th letter of the Greek alphabet; (2) consumers would view the
`
`proposed mark Omega Alpha as denoting or meaning “from the end to the beginning” based on the Greek letter
`
`meaning; (3)(cid:160) there exists registered marks encompassing the term OMEGA and ALPHA; and (4) examining
`
`attorney had (cid:160) not provided sufficient evidence to support the §2(a) refusal.(cid:160) Also, applicant amended the
`
`identification of goods.(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`The herein application was reassigned to this examining attorney, who on May 22, 2011, issued a Final Refusal
`
`under(cid:160) Trademark Act §2(a), 15 U.S.C. §1052(a).(cid:160)(cid:160) Examining attorney acknowledged (1) that the term OMEGA
`
`is the last or 24th letter of the Greek alphabet, and ALPHA is the 1st letter of the Greek alphabet; and (2) the
`
`term OMEGA is defined as “End,” and the term ALPHA is defined as “Beginning.” (cid:160) Also, examining attorney
`
`accepted applicant’s amended identification of goods. (cid:160) However, examining attorney maintained that the refusal
`
`was appropriate because the term OMEGA(cid:160) in applicant’s (cid:160) mark would be viewed by the relevant purchasing
`
`consumer as denoting(cid:160) OMEGA in relation to fatty acids (3, 6, and/or 9) which provides health benefits in
`
`relation to dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements.(cid:160)(cid:160) See evidence attached to Final Refusal dated 5/22/11.
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160) Also, examining attorney stated for the record that applicant did not (cid:160) present evidence demonstrating that the
`
`consumers would perceive the meaning of the proposed mark, Omega Alpha, as meaning “from the end to the
`
`beginning.” (cid:160)(cid:160)
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`On November 18, 2011, applicant filed a Notice of Appeal of the examiner's final refusal to the Trademark Trial
`
`and Appeal Board (hereinafter the “Board”). (cid:160) Thereafter, on January 18, 2012, the brief (cid:160) was forwarded to the
`
`examining attorney in accordance with Trademark Rule 2.142(b).
`For the reasons to follow, the examining attorney requests that the Board AFFIRM the refusal under §2(a) of the
`
`

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`Trademark Act.
`
`III. ISSUE ON APPEAL
`
`Whether the proposed mark, OMEGA ALPHA, in particular the term OMEGA,(cid:160) as used in
`connection with dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements, is deceptive under Trademark
`Act §2(a), 15 U.S.C. §1052(a), when the supplements(cid:160) do not encompass omega fatty acids, and
`as such(cid:160) should be refused registration.
`
`IV. ARGUMENT
`
`THE PROPOSED MARK OMEGA ALPHA, IN PARTICULAR THE TERM OMEGA, SHOULD BE
`REFUSED REGISTRATION BECAUSE (1) THE GOODS DO NOT CONTAIN OMEGA FATTY
`ACIDS, WHICH ARE(cid:160) KNOWN TO HAVE SPECIFIC HEALTH BENEFITS, (2) PURCHASERS
`ARE LIKELY TO BELIEVE THAT THE MISDESCRIPTION ACTUALLY DESCRIBES THE
`GOODS,(cid:160) AND (3) THE MISDESCRIPTION IS LIKELY TO AFFECT A SIGNIFICANT PORTION
`OF THE RELEVANT CONSUMERS’ DECISION TO PURCHASE THE GOODS BASED ON THE
`HEALTH BENEFITS.
`
`A. The applied for mark, OMEGA ALPHA, particularly the term OMEGA misdescribes the
`character, quality, function, composition, or use of the dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160)
`supplement goods.
`
`In making the determination of whether a mark is deceptive under Trademark Act (cid:160) §2(a)(cid:160)
`
`the following
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`criteria must be(cid:160) met:
`(1)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) The applied-for mark consists of or contains a term that misdescribes the character, quality,
`function, composition, or use of the goods and/or services;
`(2)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Prospective purchasers are likely to believe that the misdescription actually describes the goods
`and/or services; and
`(3)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) The misdescription is likely to affect a significant portion of the relevant consumers’ decision
`to purchase the goods and/or services.
`
`(cid:160) S
`
`ee In re Budge, 857 F.2d at 775, 8 USPQ2d at 1260; In re ALP of S. Beach Inc., 79 USPQ2d at 1010; TMEP
`
`§1203.02(b); see also In re Spirits Int’l, N.V., 563 F.3d 1347, 1353, 1356, 90 USPQ2d 1489, 1492-93, 1495
`
`(Fed. Cir. 2009) (holding that the test for materiality incorporates a requirement that a “significant portion of the
`
`relevant consumers be deceived”).
`
`(cid:160)
`(cid:160)(cid:160)
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`

`
`Examining attorney maintains that the term OMEGA as used within the dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal
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`supplements industry denotes supplements containing omega fatty acids as a material ingredient. Here,
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`applicant’s mark(cid:160) encompasses the term OMEGA, but not all of its goods encompass omega fatty acids.(cid:160)(cid:160) (cid:160)
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`Specifically, applicant’s identification of goods that is of record appears to only reference three (3)(cid:160) goods on
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`the list of 102 goods that appears to encompass omega fatty acids, specifically:(cid:160) (cid:160)
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`(32) Herbal supplements for the treatment of immune disorders, neural imbalances, joint
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`problems, cancer, inflammation, kidney function, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and
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`cardiovascular disease; Herbal supplements containing Essential Fatty Acids, namely, a
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`combination of Borage Oil, Flax Oil, and Fish Oil; (34) Herbal supplements to provide
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`immune support and greater resistance to cold and flu infection; Herbal supplements to help
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`prevent Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, auto-immune diseases, cancer, depression, diabetes,
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`heart disease, hyperactivity, and ulcers; Herbal supplements to increase energy level and
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`ability to concentrate; Herbal supplements to help avoid premature births, low birth weight and
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`pregnancy complications; Herbal supplements to support healthy sexual function; Herbal
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`supplements for use with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder type disorders and to
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`improve mental activity; Herbal supplements containing a combination of Fish Oil and
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`Vitamin E (D-Alpha Tocopherol) (35) Herbal supplements for use as an anti-inflammatory
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`agent to lessen symptoms of migraine headaches, premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis,
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`rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, scleroderma and other autoimmune disorders;
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`Herbal supplements to help regulate and strengthen the immune system; Herbal supplements to
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`prevent cancer; Herbal supplements to soothe irritable bowel disorders; Herbal supplements to
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`lower cholesterol and triglycerides; Herbal supplements to increase the body's response to
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`insulin; Herbal supplements containing a combination of Flax Seed Oil and Vitamin E.
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`Since all of the goods do not encompass omega fatty acids, such omission (cid:160) misdescribes the character, quality,
`
`function, composition, or use of the dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements.
`B. Prospective purchasers are likely to believe that the misdescription actually describes the
`goods, namely, dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements encompassing omega fatty
`acids. (cid:160)(cid:160) Also,(cid:160) the misdescription is likely to affect a significant portion of the relevant
`consumers’ decision to purchase the goods.
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
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`The second and third prongs of the test will be addressed together because of the logical nexus they have,
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`and both are necessary to find that the proposed mark is deceptive.(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`In the herein case, examining attorney
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`(cid:160)
`

`
`maintains that not only will prospective purchasers likely believe that the term Omega actually misdescribes the
`
`goods, namely, dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements encompassing omega fatty acids, but also the
`
`misdescription is likely to affect a significant portion of the relevant consumers’ decision to purchase the
`
`supplement goods.
`
`In support of this argument, examining attorney provided evidence from the Internet outlining the health
`
`benefits and importance of Omega Fatty Acids, and the material purchasing decision consumers make based upon
`
`goods encompassing Omega Fatty Acids.(cid:160) (cid:160) See evidence attached to Final Refusal dated 5/22/11, which is
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`provided below: (cid:160)(cid:160)
`Seapet.com, the website provides lines of animal health products. (cid:160)The website states that it
`provides products encompassing omega 3, and that (cid:160) these are necessary and essential fatty
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`acids for pets. (cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`Amazingandwonderful.com website article entitled “ Omega Three is a Vital Supplement to
`Ensure A Balanced Nutritious Food Intake,” stating: (cid:160)“Omega-3 Pet fish oil is derived
`exclusively from wild anchovies and sardines and enclosed in convenient soft gels. The
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`important Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, support healthy skin, coat, joints, heart,
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`and the development and maintenance of the brain and eyes.”
`
`(cid:160) E
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`llie’s Store website, http://www.ellies-whole-grains.com/Omega-3-for-Pets.html, the
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`following information was obtained:
`If your pet lacks Omega 3 essential fatty acids, they may suffer from:
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`itchy or scaly skin, Dandruff + frequent scratching
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Very
`Allergy-like symptoms, such as eczema or itching
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`hair loss
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Excessive shedding +
`Weakened visual ability + development
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`environmental pollutants + toxins
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Vulnerable to
`immune system
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Weakened
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Reduced learning ability
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) A thin, dull looking, and/or discolored coat
`Frequent infections such as ear infections
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`not getting enough essential fatty acids
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Weight loss from
`frequent eating because he isn't getting needed nutrition
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160) Weight gain due to
`Slow healing of wounds
`§(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`Veterinarians Recommend Omega 3 for pets. Veterinarians agree that pets that don't have
`
`enough Omega 3 essential fatty acids will eventually have health problems including dry,
`itchy skin and dull or shedding coat. Animals have much the same nutritional requirements as
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`

`
`we do, especially needing essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are critical for basic
`cellular healing and maintenance; they must be eaten in the diet just like minerals + vitamins.
`Unfortunately, our pets are not getting these critical nutrients.”
`
`Herbal Extracts + Plus website, http://www.herbalextractsplus.com/omega3-fatty-acids.cfm,
`
`(cid:160)the website provides information regarding the History and Benefits of Omega 3.(cid:160) The website
`states in particular that “ Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA) are essential for normal
`growth and development. Found in fish oil, flaxseeds, canola oil and other sources, Omega-3
`Acids are now easily taken in supplements that can help to support normal blood pressure
`levels and good cardiac health, ease inflammatory problems of all kinds and possibly even
`improve brain function and behavioral problems. Omega-3 is truly Essential!”
`Health Plus RX website, www.healthplusrx.com, states the following “ The benefits of omega
`3 are overwhelming and scientists have proved time and again that the presence of these three
`essential fatty acids in the human body can have many positive effects on the brain and can
`help reduce the effects of some diseases of the brain e.g. Alzheimer’s disease. People who
`suffer from manic depression are recommended to supplement their diets using the omega 3
`capsules. The cell walls of the cells in the human body are kept healthy by the omega 3 fatty
`acids; cell health means improved general health. Omega 3 capsules have been known to have
`an effect on bipolar disorder as well. It increases the effectiveness of the brain functions,
`therefore increase the mental capacity of the brain.”
`
`Additionally, evidence was provided by the previous examining attorney,(cid:160) see evidence attached to Office Action
`
`dated 7/7/10, which some is provided below: (cid:160)(cid:160)
`PubMed.gov website, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nik.gov/pubmed/16815401acids.cfm, (cid:160)the website
`
`provides the article Efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing age-related macular
`degeneration. The article states that omega-3 fatty acids are considered potentially important
`antioxidants and are being considered as an arm of the “Age-Related Eye Disease Study II
`clinical trial.
`Touch Cardiology website, http://www.touchcardiology.com/articles/omega-3-fatty-acids-
`
`science-efficacy-and-clinical-use-cardiology, the website provides the article Omega-3 Fatty
`
`Acids-Science, Efficac, and Clinical Use in Cardiology.(cid:160) The article states: “ Studies have
`shown that omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) can promote cardiovascular health by both primary and
`secondary prevention of cardiac disease, and most notably by reducing fatal cardiovascular
`events including sudden cardiac death (SCD). For example, recent evidence from secondary
`prevention trials has suggested that intake of 850mg/day of omega-3 FAs can reduce the risk
`of coronary heart disease (CHD) events by 25% and SCD by about 45%.1 Furthermore, of the
`three known omega-3 FAs there is evidence that eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) is particularly
`biologically important. Given the strength of the evidence, blood levels of omega-3 FAs may
`
`(cid:160)
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`have value as biomarkers to evaluate risk for cardiovascular events, leading to opportunities
`for earlier intervention in high-risk cases.”
`Ezine@rticles website, http://ezinearticles.com/?Health-Benefits-of-Omega-3-
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`Salmon&id=950357, the website provides the article discussing that “Omega 3 fats, also
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`known as polyunsaturated fats or essential fatty acids, are good for promoting overall health.
`They are primarily obtained from fatty fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines and hoki.
`Omega 3 salmon is very beneficial for people of all ages and it should be added to everyday
`diet.”
`
`The Free Dictionary by Farlex, http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/omega,
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`providing a patient discussion forum board where questions and answers are posted regarding
`omega 3 fatty acids, and the responses outlined health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids.
`Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary, 11th Edition http://www.merriam-
`
`webster.com/dictionary/omega-3, defining the term Omega-3 as “ being or composed of
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`polyunsaturated fatty acids that have the final double bond in the hydrocarbon chain between
`the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule opposite that of the carboxyl
`group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and
`vegetable oils.”
`Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69316.cfm, the
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`website states that “ A type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) derived mainly from fish oil,
`omega-3 fatty acids are used as dietary supplement for depression, to lower cholesterol, and to
`reduce the risk of heart attack. . . . [D]ata from a randomized trial suggest that omega-3 may be
`useful in reducing the risk of progression to psychiatric disorders and as a safe preventive
`measure in young adults at a risk for psychotic conditions. . . .Omega-3 fatty acid
`supplementation lowered cholesterol and may reduce recurrence in patients with history of
`stroke(cid:160) . . . . They may also help patients with ulcerative colitis . . . . In adults with rheumatoid
`arthritis, reduction in NSAID use was reported after omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.
`Omega-3 may lower the magnitude of the body's inflammatory response and can reduce
`sunburn sensitivity. Reviews of trials using omega-3 fatty acids have shown possible benefits
`for patients with cystic fibrosis. . . . . Results from a recent clinical trial suggest that dietary
`supplementation with fish oil may help reduce the symptoms of systemic lupus
`erythematosus.”
`Dictionary .com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/omega-6?r=66, defining the term
`Omega-6 as “ being or composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids in which the first double bond
`in the hydrocarbon chain occurs between the sixt and seventh carbon atoms from end of the
`molecule most distant from the carboxylic acid group and which are found especially in
`vegetable oils, nuts, beans, seeds, and grains.”
`Peter Lamas Online Glossary, http://www.lamasbeauty.com/glossary/glossary_O.htm,
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`

`
`defining the terms Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9, and the benefits of the each.(cid:160)
`Specifically, some of the benefits of each(cid:160) are: Omega-3: regulate the body’s production of
`cholesterol, improve immune functions, alleviate arthritis symptoms and inflammation,
`prevents plaque in arteries; Omega-6: provides wide range of anti-inflammatory, anti-
`infection, and anti-spasm functions; Omega-9: improves cell-to-cell communication, lubricates
`joints, reduces cellular and tissue inflammation, heat, redness, swelling, and pain, and helps
`
`regulate the immune system.(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`All of the evidence demonstrates that OMEGA fatty acids provide vital health benefits to both humans
`
`and pets, and consumers purchasing decisions are material(cid:160) because a significant portion of the relevant
`
`consumers’ decision to purchase the goods are (cid:160) because they encompass omegas.(cid:160) Particularly, the evidence
`
`demonstrates that omega fatty acids provide benefits(cid:160) that affects the body’s system, namely,(cid:160) immune, cellular,
`
`anti-inflammatory, circulatory, arthritis, and provides a great deal of other functions, benefits and protection.(cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`In
`
`reviewing applicant’s
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`laundry list of goods that
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`is of record, many of the supplements specified are for
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`improving or for the treatment of the bodily functions which omega fatty acids also benefit as specified above.(cid:160)
`
`For example, some of applicant’s supplements specify the following:
`(20) Herbal supplements to help prevent cancer; Herbal supplements for heart health; Herbal
`supplements to assist calcium absorption and utilization; Herbal supplements for high blood
`pressure,
`fibromyalgia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis; Herbal
`supplements containing Vitamin D; 23) Herbal supplements to enhance and balance the
`immune system; Herbal supplements to aid in the treatment of diabetes, obesity, and terminal
`illnesses; Herbal supplements to counteract bacteria and toxins in the blood and lymphatic
`systems; Herbal supplements for use as an antiviral; Herbal supplements to remove foreign
`substances that cause allergic reactions; Herbal supplements containing Colostrum; (29)
`Herbal supplements to stimulate the immune system and combat bacterial infection; Herbal
`supplements to reduce inflammation of the digestive, respiratory and urinary tracts; Herbal
`supplements to treat fever, colds and flu ; Herbal supplements to treat fungal infections; Herbal
`supplements containing a combination of Echinacea and Goldenseal; (52) Herbal supplements
`for the treatment of acute and chronic inflammation (94) Herbal supplements for use as an
`expectorant, cough suppressant, and reconciliatory for equine; Herbal supplements for use as
`an anti-inflammatory for Pharyngitis in equine; Herbal supplements to increase blood flow in
`capillaries; Herbal supplements to help remove stagnant toxins from the lungs of equine;
`Herbal supplements for the treatment of respiratory conditions in equine; Herbal supplements
`to treat infections of the upper respiratory tract and to help support the lungs and aid in
`drainage.
`
`(cid:160) T
`
`hus, it is clear that consumers purchasing applicant’s supplements would likely purchase them on the mistaken
`
`belief that they encompass omega fatty acids.
`
`Also, applicant’s arguments regarding the terms Omega and Alpha retaining their Greek letter significance, and
`
`that the combination of the two letters as a design is without merit.(cid:160) Examining attorney acknowledged in the
`
`th
`
`st
`
`

`
`Final Refusal dated 5/22/11, the significance of the terms OMEGA and ALPHA being (1) the 24 and 1 letters
`
`of the Greek Alphabet, and (2) the terms may be defined as End and Beginning respectively.(cid:160) However, applicant
`
`did not provide any evidence demonstrating that consumers would perceive the meaning of the proposed mark
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`OMEGA ALPHA as meaning “from the end to the beginning,” as alleged by applicant in its response to the
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`Office Action dated 1/6/11.(cid:160) Nevertheless, examining attorney has provided a significant amount of evidence
`
`demonstrating(cid:160)
`
`that the term OMEGA in regards to (cid:160) dietary, nutritional, and/or herbal(cid:160) supplements connotes a(cid:160)
`
`specific meaning of referring to omega fatty acids.
`To further refute applicant’s arguments regarding the significance of the Greek alphabets, examining attorney
`
`requests that the Board take Judicial Notice of additional dictionary evidence defining the terms(cid:160) BETA, BETA-
`
`TEST, and IOTA by the following dictionaries:
`
`The term BETA is defined as “1 : the 2d letter of the Greek alphabet — see alphabet table 2:
`
`beta particle 3: a measure of the risk potential of a stock or an investment portfolio expressed
`
`as a ratio of the stock's or portfolio's volatility to the volatility of the market as a whole 4: a
`nearly complete prototype of a product (as software) <released in beta> <the beta version>.” (cid:160)
`
`See(cid:160) Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary, 11th Edition http://www.merriam-
`
`webster.com/dictionary/beta.
`
`(cid:160) T
`
`he term Beta-Testing as “ a test of a new or modified piece of computer software by
`customers who volunteer to do so; to test (software) in this way Compare alpha-test.” (cid:160)(cid:160) See (cid:160)
`
`Collins English (cid:160) DictionaryOnline (cid:160) http://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/beta-
`
`testing.(cid:160) (cid:160)(cid:160)
`
`The term IOTA is defined as “1 : the 9th letter of the Greek alphabet — see alphabet table 2:
`
`an infinitesimal amount : jot <did not show an iota of interest>.” (cid:160) See(cid:160) Merriam-Webster's
`
`Online Dictionary, 11th Edition http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/iota.
`
`(cid:160)(cid:160) “Judicial notice” refers to a court or adjudicating body’s authority to accept as evidence well-known and
`
`indisputable facts for the purpose of convenience and without requiring a party’s proof. (cid:160) Black’s Law Dictionary
`
`923 (9th ed. 2009).(cid:160) The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board can take judicial notice of definitions obtained from
`
`dictionaries in printed format.(cid:160) TBMP §1208.04; see Fed. R. Evid. 201; 37 C.F.R. §2.122(a).(cid:160) In addition, the
`
`Board can also take judicial notice of online dictionaries available in printed format or online dictionaries that are
`
`readily available and capable of being verified, e.g., dictionaries that are available in specifically denoted editions
`
`via the Internet and CD-ROM.(cid:160) In re Red Bull GmbH, 78 USPQ2d 1375, 1378 (TTAB 2006); In re
`
`CyberFinancial.Net, Inc., 65 USPQ2d 1789, 1791 n.3 (TTAB 2002); TMEP §710.01(c).(cid:160)
`
`

`
`As demonstrated by the definitions of the terms BETA and IOTA, it is true that both are defined as being Greek
`
`alphabets, similar to OMEGA and ALPHA.(cid:160) However, when the words are shown in a different context, i.e., beta
`
`and beta-test of computer software, and not showing an iota of interest in something,(cid:160) they connote significance
`
`other than(cid:160) merely Greek alphabets.(cid:160) Also, applicant’s proposed mark was completely (cid:160) reviewed and considered
`
`in its entirety.(cid:160)(cid:160) As a result,(cid:160) the stylization of the two (2) Greek letters Omega and