Capillary-driven self-assembly of soft ellipsoidal microgels at the air-water interface.

The adsorption of ellipsoidal colloidal particles on liquid interfaces induces interfacial deformation, resulting in anisotropic interface-mediated interactions and the formation of superstructures. Soft prolate-shaped microgels at the air-water interface offer an ideal model for studying spontaneous capillary-driven self-assembly due to their tunable aspect ratio, controlled functionality, and softness. These microgels consist of a polystyrene core surrounded by a cross-linked, fluorescently labeled poly([Formula: see text]-isopropylmethylacrylamide) shell.

Softness matters: effects of compression on the behavior of adsorbed microgels at interfaces.

Deformable colloids and macromolecules adsorb at interfaces as they decrease the interfacial energy between the two media. The deformability, or softness, of these particles plays a pivotal role in the properties of the interface. In this study, we employ a comprehensive approach, combining neutron reflectometry with molecular dynamics simulations, to thoroughly examine the profound influence of softness on the structure of microgel Langmuir monolayers under compression.

Interfacial Fluid Rheology of Soft Particles.

In situ interfacial rheology and numerical simulations are used to investigate microgel monolayers in a wide range of packing fractions, ζ_{2D}. The heterogeneous particle compressibility determines two flow regimes characterized by distinct master curves. To mimic the microgel architecture and reproduce experiments, an interaction potential combining a soft shoulder with the Hertzian model is introduced.

Influence of Architecture on the Interfacial Properties of Polymers: Linear Chains, Stars, and Microgels.

Surface-active polymers have important applications as effective and responsive emulsifiers, foaming agents, and coatings. In this contribution, we explore the impact of the polymer architecture on the behavior at oil-water interfaces by comparing different poly(-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM)-based systems, namely, monolayers of linear and star-shaped macromolecules, ultralow cross-linked, regular cross-linked, and hollow microgels. Compression isotherms were determined experimentally as well as by computer simulations.

Effect on medication adherence of applying a specialty pharmacy care model to nonspecialty medications: A quasi-experimental cohort study.

Purpose: Medication nonadherence is a multifactorial healthcare problem that contributes to increased healthcare costs and morbidity. To improve medication adherence, specialty pharmacies offer services not typically provided by retail pharmacies such as benefits investigation, financial assistance, medication synchronization, and proactive refill reminders. This study assessed the impact of the specialty pharmacy care model on medication adherence for patients on nonspecialty medications.