Methods: The nanocomposites were prepared via coprecipitation method at various molar ratios of B4 and EUS.
Results: At equal molar ratios, the obtained nanocomposite showed an intercalation selectivity that is preferential to EUS. However, the selectivity ratio of intercalated anions was shown to be capable of being altered by adjusting the molar ratio of intended guests during synthesis. Dual-guest nanocomposite synthesized with B4:EUS molar ratio 3:1 (ZEB [3:1]) showed an intercalation selectivity ratio of B4:EUS =53:47. Properties of ZEB (3:1) were monitored using powder X-ray diffractometer to show a basal spacing of 21.8 Å. Direct-injection mass spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectra, and ultraviolet-visible spectra confirmed the dual intercalation of both anions into the interlayer regions of dual-guest nanocomposite. The cytotoxicity study of dual-guest nanocomposite ZEB (3:1) on human dermal fibroblast cells showed no significant toxicity until 25 μg/mL.
Conclusion: Overall, the findings demonstrate successful customization of ultraviolet-ray absorbers composition in LDH host.
AIMS: This study aimed to assess the self-perception of malocclusion and explore barriers to orthodontic care among residents of Bandar Saujana Putra in Klang Valley, Malaysia.
SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A cross-sectional study through the use of a validated questionnaire was distributed to the residents of Bandar Saujana Putra. Responses were collected from June 2021 to February 2022 via both online (Google Forms) and physical forms.
METHODS AND MATERIAL: The questionnaire consists of four sections, which assessed the respondents' demographics, understanding and awareness toward malocclusion, and barriers to orthodontic care.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Responses were analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test with IBM SPSS version 26.
RESULTS: A total of 231 responses were collected from 83 (35.9%) males and 148 (64.1%) females. Females had a significantly higher level of awareness and knowledge regarding malocclusion compared to males (P < 0.05). The majority of the female respondents (83.8%) agreed that malocclusion can lead to dental caries (P = 0.02) and 60.8% of them identified "unpleasant appearance" as the main barrier to orthodontic treatment (P < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that clear braces could be a viable alternative for patients who are concerned with their appearance and may be a solution to the barrier of "unpleasant appearance." Our study contributes to the existing literature on malocclusion and barriers to orthodontic care in Malaysia.