Exploring orAL cAncer Risk behaviouRs of Indian imMigrants in Australia : a mixed-methods study to inform preventative strategies (the ALARRM study)

The broad aim of this mixed methods study was to explore oral cancer risk behaviours of Indian immigrants and identify preventative strategies to raise oral cancer awareness. The specific aims were to examine the self-reported oral cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Indian immigrants in Australia and perceived barriers and facilitators in adopting preventative strategies. Similarly, the oral cancer-related knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices of General Practitioners (GPs) were investigated along with their perceived barriers and facilitators in promoting preventative strategies in Australia. This thesis is presented as a series of five published papers. Two publications are presented as the literature review and the remaining three papers are from the qualitative and quantitative results. The ALARRM study has provided valuable insight into the under-researched area of oral cancer risk in Australia. It has revealed varying levels of knowledge about oral cancer among the sample of Indian immigrants, particularly around risk factors like alcohol and areca nut use as well as oral cancer-related signs/symptoms. Positive attitudes about preventative oral health practices were evident, although some participants were involved in oral cancer risk practices. The findings have also highlighted the lack of adequate information regarding oral cancer being provided in primary health care settings and uncertainty around the scope of practice of GPs in this area. GPs play a vital role as primary health care providers and are a gateway to access specialist health services. However, a lack of relevant oral health training is making it difficult for GPs to actively promote oral cancer prevention. The overall findings suggest the need for the formulation of community-centred oral cancer preventative and awareness strategies along with capacity building of primary health care professionals. Steps taken on a policy level could also help in reducing oral cancer incidence. Further research through larger studies and a more representative sample is warranted to xxi explore this area in Australia and confirm the study findings. Greater knowledge in this area will help inform the development of culturally sensitive and tailored strategies to raise awareness of oral cancer risk among the growing Indian immigrant population in Australia

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries regarding oral cancer : an integrative review

Background: Oral cancer is a growing problem worldwide, with high incidence rates in South Asian countries. With increasing numbers of South Asian immigrants in developed countries, a possible rise in oral cancer cases is expected given the high prevalence in their source countries and the continued oral cancer risk behaviours of immigrants. The aim of this review is to synthesise existing evidence regarding knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries regarding oral cancer. Methods: Five electronic databases were systematically searched to identify original, English language articles focussing on oral cancer risk knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries. All studies that met the following inclusion criteria were included: conducted among South Asian immigrants in developed countries; explored at least one study outcome (knowledge or attitudes or practices); used either qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods. No restrictions were placed on the publication date, quality and setting of the study. Results: A total of 16 studies involving 4772 participants were reviewed. These studies were mainly conducted in the USA, UK, Italy and New Zealand between 1994 and 2018. Findings were categorised into themes of oral cancer knowledge, attitudes and practices. General lack of oral cancer risk knowledge (43–76%) among participants was reported. More than 50% people were found engaging in one or more oral cancer risk practices like smoking, betel quid/pan/gutka chewing. Some of the participants perceived betel quid/pan/gutka chewing habit good for their health (12–43.6%). Conclusion: This review has shown that oral cancer risk practices are prevalent among South Asian immigrants who possess limited knowledge and unfavourable attitude in this area. Culturally appropriate targeted interventions and strategies are needed to raise oral cancer awareness among South Asian communities in developed countries

Enhancement of Power Quality Improvement by Novel Control of Grid Integrated Fuel Cell

Power generation by using hydrogen energy is having significant priority during peak loads or under lower power generation conditions. Electricity can be easily produced by hydrogen with releasing any harmful gases to atmosphere as well as can meet load demand very quickly. During deficiency in generation from other power sources, the frequency of the system can be maintained through hydrogen based power generation units. A fuel cell (FC) stack can able to produce required amount of electricity from hydrogen and oxygen. Therefore grid connected FC can maintain power quality at local buses as well as can meet the load demand. Apart from transferring active power into grid from FC, the interfacing inverter of FC into grid can also improve power quality at local buses by injecting reactive power to make constant voltage during low voltages of grids. A novel control scheme based powers is implemented in this paper with the help of proportional plus integral (PI) controllers. The modeling of FC is also incorporated in the paper for best understanding.Various performances of the proposed method are tested under various case studies to present results by using MATLAB/Simulink package

Artificial Intelligence’s Role in Shaping Renewable Energy for Next-Generation Smart Cities

This review article explores the perspective of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of smart cities, with a particular focus on the integration of renewable energy solutions. The smart city and AI perspective has gained significant attention in urban policy circles, yet many initiatives have faced challenges due to narrow, technology-centric approaches. In response, this paper advocates for a “green AI” approach that prioritises sustainability and equity alongside efficiency in urban development. Through a comprehensive analysis of AI and smart city literature, practices, trends, and applications, this review identifies critical research gaps, stressing the need for AI systems that promote sustainability, efficiency, and fairness in urban contexts. In light of pressing issues like climate change, overpopulation, and resource depletion, the urgency of AI-driven urban solutions is evident. The article examines Smart Cities in Spain and compares them to conventional cities, offering insights into strategic technological measures across areas such as economics, sustainability, transportation, governance, population management, and quality of life. It underscores AI’s potential to transform traditional cities into smart, sustainable urban hubs, contributing to the broader discourse on AI’s role in shaping the cities of tomorrow

Neuro-Fuzzy Controllers for Power Quality Improvement of Grid Connected PV-Battery-Diesel based Hybrid Supply System

Diesel generators are commonly operated to supply electric power for many apartments, hospitals, institutes and industries during off grid mode. However, consumption of heavy diesel can causes harmful effect to atmosphere and surroundings. Under these circumstances, integrated photovoltaic system (PVS) to the diesel generators can able to give some viable solutions for many problems. In order to store the energy from PVS during off grid mode as well as to provide uninterrupted power supply into load bus, a battery bank is also incorporated into the system in this paper.These kinds of system are mainly connected in distribution system. Hence, a proper inverter controller needs to be implemented for maintaining power quality. Neuro-Fuzzy based controllers are implemented to use in the control block of the inverter to achieve the fast and precious responses during quick variations happens in the system. In addition with this, a sliding mode controller is also incorporated with inverter controller to regulate invert input current.A hardware- in the -loop by OPAL-RT devices is established to collect the results under various operating conditions

Perceptions and practices of general practitioners towards oral cancer and emerging risk factors among Indian immigrants in Australia : a qualitative study

Background: In Australia, Indian immigrants are one of the fastest-growing communities. Since oral cancer is widespread in India, the indulgence of Indians in customs of areca (betel) nut use in Australia may be linked to the recent rise in oral cancer cases. Since GPs (general practitioners) are primary healthcare providers, it is pivotal to ensure the oral cancer awareness of GPs. This study aimed to explore oral cancer risk-related knowledge, beliefs, and clinical practices of GPs in Australia. Methods: Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs practicing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball sampling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. Results: All GPs were knowledgeable of major oral cancer causative factors including tobacco and alcohol, but some had limited understanding about the risks associated with areca nut preparations. Positive attitudes were evident, with all participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer risk assessment. Most GPs recalled not performing oral cancer routine check-ups. Conclusion: GPs presented good oral cancer knowledge except for emerging risk factors such as areca nut use. Varied beliefs and inconsistent clinical practices relating to oral cancer screening is concerning. Accessible oral cancer training around emerging risk factors may benefit GPs

Comparison of the effect for fracture resistance of different coronally extended post length with two different post materials

Aims and Objectives: To compare the effect for fracture resistance of different coronally extended post length with two different post materials. Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty endodontically treated maxillary central incisors embedded in acrylic resin with decoronated root portion were taken for the study. The postspaces were prepared according to standard protocol. The samples were divided into two groups according to the post material: glass-fiber post and Quartz fiber post. These groups were further subdivided on the basis of coronal extension of 4 and 6 mm for glass fiber and Quartz fiber posts, respectively. The posts were then luted with dual-polymerizing resin cement followed by core buildup. Samples were subjected to increasing compressive oblique load until fracture occurred in a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and independent Student's t-test. Analysis was done using SPSS version 15 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) Windows software program. Results: Glass fiber post with coronal extension of 4 mm (182.8 N) showed better results than with 6-mm length (124.1 N). Similarly, in quartz fiber posts group, 4-mm postlength (314 N) was better when compared with 6 mm (160 N). The 4-mm coronal extension of quartz fiber post displayed superior fracture resistance. Conclusions: Glass fiber posts showed better fracture resistance than Quartz fiber posts. 4-mm coronal length showed more fracture resistance than 6 mm

Improvement of the DPFC performance in Transmission Lines during failure of Series Converter

The DPFC is a novel device which is related to FACTS family. It has become visible from the Unified Power Flow Controller. The DPFC is comprised of a shunt converter and a series converter, both interconnected with the grid to regulate power flow. The presence of a common dc link between the shunt and series converters is observed in previous converters such as UPFC. However, in the case of DPFC, the dc link is eliminated. The series controller ensures costeffective high reliability. In this document, we examine the efficiency of DPFC when a single series converter fails, and we also implement a control scheme to enhance DPFC’s performance in such failure scenarios. The control principle relies on the fact that the failure of a single series converter will result in the occurrence of unsymmetrical currents across the entire system. Monitoring the zero and negative sequence currents can help to overcome this failure. A well-suited control scheme has been devised in this study to overcome the challenges arising from the series converter failure and effectively manage the active power, reactive power, grid voltages, and currents. The obtainability of the control scheme and simulation diagrams of DPFC can be achieved through the appropriate design

Solar Energy in Developing Countries: Challenges and Opportunities for Smart Cities

This perspective article explores the dynamic landscape of solar energy adoption in developing countries, particularly within the framework of smart cities. Developing nations face a compelling need to bridge the energy gap, reduce emissions, foster economic growth, and enhance energy security. Solar energy offers potential solutions to these challenges. Despite the promise of solar energy, obstacles exist. Financial constraints, outdated infrastructure, grid instability, technical expertise gaps, and regulatory hurdles hinder widespread adoption. However, technological advances in solar panels, energy storage, smart grids, and data analytics present avenues for overcoming these challenges. Collaborative initiatives, consistent policies, and public-private partnerships offer support for sustainable development. Smart cities play a crucial role in this transition. Sustainable urban planning, smart infrastructure, and digitalization contribute to the efficient use of solar power. Case studies from India, Rwanda, and Brazil exemplify successful integration of solar energy within smart city projects. Balancing challenges with opportunities is the key to success. By addressing obstacles and seizing available prospects, developing countries can lead the charge toward a sustainable energy future

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of Indian immigrants in Australia towards oral cancer and their perceived role of general practitioners : a cross-sectional study

Oral cancer is highly prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. With the increasing immigration of Indians to Australia, a potential rise in oral cancer cases can be expected if they continue engaging in oral cancer risk practices. Unfortunately, little is known on this topic in the Australian context. This study aimed to generate new insights into this area by examining Indian immigrants’ knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer in Australia and their perceived role of general practitioners in raising oral cancer awareness. Exploring these aspects could determine the oral cancer risk behaviours of Indians in Australia along with any contributing factors which could help identify potential preventative strategies. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken of 164 Indians across Australia. Data were analysed using SPSS software with descriptive statistics. Respondents had varying levels of knowledge about oral cancer (mean total score 61%), particularly around risk factors such as alcohol and areca nut use as well as oral cancer-related signs/symptoms. The majority (87.7%) had not received any information about oral cancer in a health care setting but were receptive (71–90%) to general practitioners playing a more active role in this area. Respondents were engaging in positive preventative oral health care though few were currently (6.7%) or previously (14.7%) chewing tobacco preparations. Further research is needed through larger studies to confirm the study findings and inform the development of culturally tailored strategies particularly involving general practitioners, to raise oral cancer awareness and provide early screening for Indian immigrants