DLyons Aug 16, 2011:

Symbols for numbers. X, Y, X', Y' are unspecified numbers such that X < X' < Y' < Y.

So I'd go with Jack's version myself.

Yusuf Atallah (asker) Aug 16, 2011:

More context 1. Describe the individual parts A, B, and C, for instance:
(1) Suitable types or forms of A include (describe relevant characteristics, such as size, shape, molecular weight, types)

(a) Preferred types or forms of A include …
(b) Suitable sources of A (or methods of making A) include …
(i) Preferred sources include …
(c) Suitable amounts or dimensions of A, for instance:
(d) Functional definition, for instance,
(i) An amount sufficient to provide therapeutic effect
(ii) Dimensions sufficient to be positioned in particular location
(e) Quantitative definition
(i) Concentration of between about X and about Y, preferably between about X’ and about Y’, based on weight of ABC
(ii) Overall length, diameter ranges

(2) Repeat this process with Parts B and C

B D Finch Aug 16, 2011:

Hmmm Yes, perhaps we could do with some more context, i.e. the sentences before and after for a start. It is, of course, not impossible that the original source text is poorly written, but the additional information given by the Asker makes it seem that this may not really be statistics. Also, what sort of "concentration" is meant? Is it concentration of something in solution, concentration about a point or what?

DLyons Aug 16, 2011:

Strange Then I don't understand the sentence at all :-( I

was leaning towards Jack's answer, but now that doesn't seem to fit either.

Yusuf Atallah (asker) Aug 16, 2011:

No, they occur as such in my text.

This sentence is mentioned in a section that describes how to create an initial outline of an invention, in which the various requirements (how to make, etc.) and elements of the invention are laid out and can be placed into clear and proper form, taking care to understand the relationship between terms, and to use and organize them consistently and appropriately.

I posted this question because I was not sure of the meaning of [x'].

DLyons Aug 16, 2011:

Context Are you using X, Y, X', Y', ABC as symbols for something confidential? Or do they occur in your text? What's the application area - some chemical or dosage?

I don't understand why you ask "what is the difference between (x) and (x')?"