Abstract: A system for communicating issues and facilitating resolution of the issues, wherein the issues affect a plurality of similar complex systems, the system being implemented over a computer network and comprising at least one first computer device, a second computer device and a third computer device, all of which are configured to be in communication with the computer network. The first computer devices are adapted to be used by at least one customer, and the second computer device is adapted to be used by an originating entity. The third computer device is configured to maintain a discussion-capable electronic media accessible to the first and second computer devices over the computer network. The electronic media is configured to have a plurality of issues and a plurality of comments posted thereon to facilitate resolving the issue.

Abstract: Compositions comprising maltotriose are disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the compositions comprise maltotriose and at least one component whose function is subject to impairment by a dehydration process, such as a live microorganism. Methods for inhibiting damage caused by dehydration are also disclosed herein. In particular embodiments, the method includes preparing a composition comprising maltotriose and at least one component whose function is subject to impairment by a dehydration process and removing water from the composition by one or more dehydration processes.

Abstract: A method of collaboratively identifying, prioritizing, and resolving issues is provided. An issue and/or a comment corresponding to the issue are received over a computer network from a customer and/or an originating entity via respective computer devices and posted on a discussion-capable electronic media accessible to the computer devices, as well as a third computer device. The third computer device is used by a committee comprised of a customer representative and originating entity representative to access the electronic media to separate the posted issues into rejected issues and action issues, at least partially based on the posted comments. The committee prioritizes the action issues and sends resolution directions for each action issue to the customer and/or a manufacturer. Once a resolution proposal for an action issue is received, the committee directs the implementation of the resolution proposal for each action issue before closing the action issue upon completion of the resolution proposal.

Abstract: A system for communicating issues and facilitating resolution of the issues, wherein the issues affect a plurality of similar complex systems, the system being implemented over a computer network and comprising at least one first computer device, a second computer device and a third computer device, all of which are configured to be in communication with the computer network. The first computer devices are adapted to be used by at least one customer, and the second computer device is adapted to be used by an originating entity. The third computer device is configured to maintain a discussion-capable electronic media accessible to the first and second computer devices over the computer network. The electronic media is configured to have a plurality of issues and a plurality of comments posted thereon to facilitate resolving the issue.

Abstract: A plasma process using a reactant gas mixture of fluorinated etching gas and oxygen for selectively etching a thin film of material such as silicon nitride with high selectivity for a silicon oxide underlayer and, preferably, for a photoresist overlayer mask.