Abstract: Parasitic plasma in voids in a component of a plasma processing chamber can be eliminated by covering electrically conductive surfaces in an interior of the voids with a sleeve. The voids can be gas holes, lift pin holes, helium passages, conduits and/or plenums in chamber components such as an upper electrode and a substrate support.

Abstract: A presentation instrument package is constructed of a carrier having a package identifier. The package defines an enclosure into which is held a presentation instrument having a human readable presentation instrument identifier such that the human readable information is hidden from view.

Abstract: Parasitic plasma in voids in a component of a plasma processing chamber can be eliminated by covering electrically conductive surfaces in an interior of the voids with a sleeve. The voids can be gas holes, lift pin holes, helium passages, conduits and/or plenums in chamber components such as an upper electrode and a substrate support.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for activating a presentation instrument using a computerized network. The method utilizes a presentation instrument package that comprises a greeting card and a presentation instrument. A package identifier on the greeting card is read and transmitted to a host computer system to indicate that the presentation instrument has been purchased. After being purchased, the package identifier may be detached from the greeting card and the presentation instrument may be removed from the greeting card. To activate the presentation instrument, an access code and a presentation instrument identifier obtained from the presentation instrument may be provided to the host computer system. Furthermore, the recipient may select a personal identifier to associate with the presentation instrument. The personal identifier may be transmitted to the host computer system for storage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for determining whether an individual is predisposed to major depressive disorder and/or to bipolar disorder. In particular, the present invention provides genetic markers useful alone or in combination with other genetic markers for the diagnosis, characterization and treatment of major (unipolar) depression and/or bipolar disorder.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for activating a presentation instrument using a computerized network. The method utilizes a presentation instrument package that comprises a presentation instrument that is coupled to a carrier. A package identifier on the presentation instrument package is read and transmitted to a host computer system to indicate that the presentation instrument has been purchased. After being purchased, the presentation instrument may be removed from the carrier. To activate the presentation instrument, an access code and a presentation instrument identifier obtained from the presentation instrument may be provided to the host computer system via an IVR unit. Also, the recipient may select a personal identifier to associate with the presentation instrument. The personal identifier may be transmitted to the host computer system for storage.

Abstract: The present invention provides alternative methods and systems for instantaneous initialization of financial presentation instruments, preferably stored value cards, gift cards, or other pre-paid debit cards. In one aspect of the present invention, a method for initializing financial presentation instruments is provided. The method comprises mailing a financial presentation instrument to a customer. At least an account identification (ID) associated with the presentation instrument, a monetary value to be loaded onto the presentation instrument, and a payment instrument from the customer is received. The presentation instrument is then initialized or activated to the monetary value. Typically, the receiving and initializing is carried out by an internet website, an interactive voice response (IVR) system, or a telephone customer service representative.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for activating a presentation instrument using a computerized network. The method utilizes a presentation instrument package that comprises a greeting card and a presentation instrument. A package identifier on the greeting card is read and transmitted to a host computer system to indicate that the presentation instrument has been purchased. After being purchased, the package identifier may be detached from the greeting card and the presentation instrument may be removed from the greeting card. To activate the presentation instrument, an access code and a presentation instrument identifier obtained from the presentation instrument may be provided to the host computer system. Furthermore, the recipient may select a personal identifier to associate with the presentation instrument. The personal identifier may be transmitted to the host computer system for storage.

Abstract: A presentation instrument package is constructed of a carrier having a package identifier. The package defines an enclosure into which is held a presentation instrument having a human readable presentation instrument identifier such that the human readable information is hidden from view.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for activating a presentation instrument using a computerized network. The method utilizes a presentation instrument package that comprises a presentation instrument that is coupled to a carrier. A package identifier on the presentation instrument package is read and transmitted to a host computer system to indicate that the presentation instrument has been purchased. After being purchased, the presentation instrument may be removed from the carrier. To activate the presentation instrument, an access code and a presentation instrument identifier obtained from the presentation instrument may be provided to the host computer system via an IVR unit. Also, the recipient may select a personal identifier to associate with the presentation instrument. The personal identifier may be transmitted to the host computer system for storage.

Abstract: A method of providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, delivering the postcard presentation instrument to a destination via a distribution system, and settling a transaction involving the postcard presentation instrument. A system for providing a postcard presentation instrument for use in a transaction includes a processing system for applying an information storage medium to a postcard to create a postcard presentation instrument, and a host computer system that receives a request to activate the postcard presentation instrument.

Abstract: The present invention provides alternative methods and systems for instantaneous initialization of financial presentation instruments, preferably stored value cards, gift cards, or other pre-paid debit cards. In one aspect of the present invention, a method for initializing financial presentation instruments is provided. The method comprises mailing a financial presentation instrument to a customer. At least an account identification (ID) associated with the presentation instrument, a monetary value to be loaded onto the presentation instrument, and a payment instrument from the customer is received. The presentation instrument is then initialized or activated to the monetary value. Typically, the receiving and initializing is carried out by an internet website, an interactive voice response (IVR) system, or a telephone customer service representative.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for determining whether an individual is predisposed to or protected from alcoholism. In particular, the present invention provides genetic markers useful for the diagnosis, characterization, and treatment or prevention of alcohol tolerance, abuse and/or dependence.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for determining whether an individual is predisposed to depression.