Accurate estimates of diffusion coefficients are essential if gas transport is to be accurately modeled and better techniques are needed that can be used to measure these coefficients non-invasively. Here we present a novel method for using prompt gamma activation analysis to determine the binary diffusion coefficients of a gas in a porous system. Argon diffusion experiments were conducted in a 1 m long, 10 cm diameter, horizontal

column packed with a SiO2 sand. The temporal variation of argon concentration within the system was measured using prompt gamma activation DMXAA mw analysis. The binary diffusion coefficient was obtained by comparing the experimental data with the predictions from a numerical model in which the diffusion coefficient was varied until the sum of square errors between experiment and model data was minimized. Predictions of argon concentration using the optimal diffusivity fit experimental measurements with an R-2 of 0.983. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.”
“Introduction\n\nThere is evidence to suggest that the Patient Consultation Questionnaire (PCQ) is a reliable tool

to predict symptomatic left-sided colorectal cancer. While previous research has examined the sensitivity and specificity of the PCQ as a tool, it has not addressed patients’ perspectives.\n\nObjective\n\nTo examine qualitatively patients’ perspectives on ease of use of the PCQ, and their attitude to completing it.\n\nMethod\n\nThe target population were patients in North Wales between 55 and 85 years with colorectal symptoms who had completed the PCQ. A sample of six was randomly selected. The approach was qualitative, using semi-structured, in-depth GW4869 order cognitive interviews, which were recorded and transcribed before content and thematic analysis.\n\nResults\n\nThe

HM781-36B molecular weight study found some areas of concern in relation to the PCQ’s design and presentation, concerning such issues as the use of medical jargon or ambiguous wording, and the use of questions to which patients may not have an answer. It also found that patients responded to the form as something more than a screening tool, treating it variously as way of speeding up diagnosis and treatment, an opportunity to ‘play the system’, and a way of bypassing embarrassing encounters.\n\nDiscussion and conclusions\n\nAlthough major problems were not identified, the minor issues observed in the PCQ’s design and presentation may reduce accuracy and patient satisfaction. A greater understanding of patients’ perception of the role and function of the PCQ may help clinicians to interpret responses to the form more accurately.”
“The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley parasitoid, Aenasius bambawalei Hayat has been recorded for the first time from mummified mealybugs collected in the field on various weeds and cotton crop from different districts of Punjab province of Pakistan. The redescription of the species is provided with its four host plants and distribution in the Punjab province of Pakistan.