Thermal energy storage system using phase change materials: Constant heat source

The usage of phase change materials (PCM) to store the heat in the form of latent heat is increased, because large quantity of thermal energy is stored in smaller volumes. In the present experimental investigation paraffin and stearic acid are employed as PCMs in thermal energy storage (TES) system to store the heat as sensible and latent heat also. A constant heat source is used to supply heat transfer fluid (HTF) at constant temperature to the TES system. In the TES system PCMs are stored in the form of spherical capsules of 38 mm diameter made of high density poly ethylene (HDPE). The results of the investigation are related to the charging time and recovery of stored energy from the TES system

Transition of Care in Paediatric Surgery: Current practices and perspectives of paediatric surgeons in Malaysia

Objectives: Transition of care (TOC) from paediatric to adult care is still at an early stage in Malaysia. This study aimed to explore current practices and perspectives regarding TOC among paediatric surgeons in Malaysia. Methods: This study was carried out between June and December 2017. All 48 paediatric surgeons currently working in Malaysia were invited to participate in a questionnaire-based survey to assess demographic characteristics and practices and perspectives regarding TOC. Results: A total of 38 paediatric surgeons participated in the survey (response rate: 79.2%). Overall, 97.4% did not have an organised TOC model in their institution, with most (65.8%) caring for paediatric patients with complex surgical conditions until adulthood. Although the majority (86.8%) felt that care should be transitioned to adult surgeons with appropriate credentials, most surgeons (84.2%) nevertheless preferred to be involved in the management of adolescent patients after transition. However, there was no consensus regarding the most suitable age to begin the transition. Years of experience as a paediatric surgeon and place of practice did not affect overall TOC practice scores (P >0.050 each). The presence of adult comorbidities was considered the most common reason to initiate TOC (81.6%), while the lack of TOC guidelines was perceived to be the greatest barrier (84.2%). Conclusion: This study provides a better understanding of TOC from the point of view of paediatric surgeons in Malaysia. However, further studies involving other stakeholders (i.e. patients and adult surgeons) are needed to help formulate a suitable and successful TOC model in this setting.Keywords: Transition to Adult Care; Pediatrics; Adolescents; Surgery; Attitudes; Professional Practice; Malaysia

Cost and Return in Black Gram Cultivation among Members of Farmer Producer Organization in Tamil Nadu, India

Farmer producer companies normally carry out the activities such as production, harvesting, processing, procurement, grading, handling, marketing, selling, export of primary produce of the members or import of goods or services for their benefit. The present study was conducted in Theni District of Tamil Nadu. Primary as well as secondary data on black gram were collected for this present study. Simple statistical analysis such as arithmetic mean and percentage analysis and Compound growth rate analysis was worked out. Among operational costs, the cost of human labour accounted the highest share (36.03 per cent) in Black gram cultivation. Total cost of cultivation of black gram among the sample farmers of FPO in the study area was Rs. 46477.26/ha. The net return realised from Black gram cultivation was Rs. 21722.74/ha