No, can you be more specific? I am aware that there are thousands and thousands of software algorithm "patents". Perhaps calling them patents is only a layman term? Perhaps this ruling you speak of was recent and just overturned them?
Most of the time no legal challenges are made, because they are just too silly. But there are some lawyer heavy "software" companies who don't really produce software, but simply try to patent the obvious and bring harassment lawsuits.
Sorry no, I vaguely remember a ruling that software was covered by copyright laws. That is why I asked.