Multi-functional copper oxide nanoparticles synthesized using Lagerstroemia indica leaf extracts and their applications.

Developing multifunctional nanomaterials through environmentally friendly and efficient approaches is a pivotal focus in nanotechnology. This study aimed to employ a biogenic method to synthesize multifunctional copper oxide nanoparticles (LI-CuO NPs) with diverse capabilities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and seed priming properties, as well as photocatalytic organic dye degradation and wastewater treatment potentials using Lagerstroemia indica leaf extract. The synthesized LI-CuO NPs were extensively characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The colloid displayed surface plasmon resonance peaks at 320 nm, characteristic of LI-CuO NPs. DLS analysis revealed an average particle size of 93.5 nm and a negative zeta potential of -20.3 mV. FTIR and XPS analyses demonstrated that LI-CuO NPs possessed abundant functional groups that acted as stabilizing agents. XRD analysis indicated pure crystalline and spherical LI-CuO NPs measuring 36 nm in size. Antibacterial tests exhibited significant differential activity of LI-CuO NPs against both gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) bacteria. In antioxidant tests, the LI-CuO NPs demonstrated a remarkable radical scavenging activity of 97.6 % at a concentration of 400 µg mL-1. These nanoparticles were also found to enhance mustard seed germination at low concentrations. With a remarkable reusability, LI-CuO NPs exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance, with a degradation efficiency of 97.6 % at 150 µg/mL as well as a 95.6 % reduction in turbidity when applied to wastewater treatment. In conclusion, this study presents environmentally friendly method for the facile synthesis of LI-CuO NPs that could potentially offer promising applications in biomedicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation due to their multifunctional properties.

Pulmonary aspergillosis and mucormycosis in a patient with COVID-19.

Invasive pulmonary mucormycosis and aspergillosis are rare, life-threatening fungal infections. Most documented cases have been reported in patients with diabetes mellitus, neutropenia, or treatment with corticosteroids. Both infections have been recognized as secondary complications of COVID-19, especially among critically ill patients. We report the first case of combined probable pulmonary aspergillosis and possible mucormycosis in a male with COVID-19 in the ICU.

"I have to be around people that are doing what I'm doing": The importance of expanding the peer recovery coach role in treatment of opioid use disorder in the face of COVID-19 health disparities.

The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing opioid epidemic are causing notable morbidity and mortality among low-income and minority populations. Peer recovery coaches (PRCs), people with lived experience of substance use and recovery, are uniquely positioned to support underserved, minority individuals who face the greatest barriers to care. This commentary combines research and clinical perspectives to describe the potential role of PRCs in reaching and supporting particularly vulnerable populations in the setting of substantial changes in the opioid use disorder (OUD) recovery landscape during COVID-19. During this time, PRCs can provide guidance from their own experience navigating changes to routines and social support systems, reduce social isolation, build trust and buy-in, and support engagement in care. Specific barriers include access to technology and underlying distrust of public and medical authorities. This article highlights the importance of expanding the reach of the PRC workforce as well as supporting their specific needs at this time to combat the intersecting devastation of two epidemics.