This work presents a simple method for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using as reducing and stabilizing agent a polysaccharide extracted from red algae Gracilaria birdiae present in the coast of Piauí. The AgNPS were prepared using three polysaccharide concentrations (0.02, 0.03 and 0.05% v/v) and two pHs (10 and 11) at stirring for 30min at 90°C. The formation of silver nanoparticles was monitored by measurements of UV–vis and FTIR and characterized by size and zeta potential measurements using DLS and morphologically by TEM. The UV–vis absorption spectrum showed the surface plasmon peak at 410nm, which is characteristic peak of silver nanoparticles. The functional biomolecules present in the polysaccharide and the interaction between the nanoparticles were identified by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The stability of the synthesized silver nanoparticles was analyzed during four months and no significant agglomeration was observed. The hydrodynamic diameter of the AgNPs varied between 20.2nm and 94.9nm. The AgNPs were tested for antimicrobial activity using Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and all samples showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli. Using an environment-friendly, the AgNPs were synthesized in a simple, rapid and one-step process using natural sources as red algae with favorable characteristics such as spherical shape, small size and zeta potential negative. The results suggest that the polysaccharide mediated synthesized silver nanoparticles could be used as a model for future projects of nano-medicines or drug delivery systems

Background: Self-care is essential for the prevention of complications in patients with diabetes, but several authors report that even with health education programs, the incidence of complications in patients with diabetes continues to increase. Objective: We aimed to examine adherence to self-care strategies and the repercussions of adherence on the clinical profiles of individuals with type 2 diabetes. Methods: We performed a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched for related studies in 4 databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Literature (LILACS). We included observational studies in English and Portuguese that evaluated the effects of selfcare in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Results: The search resulted in the identification of 615 articles, of which 34 met all the inclusion criteria. General self-care was considered unsatisfactory. Physical exercise was classified as the self-care activity that was performed less frequently by individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus; adherence to medication was the most frequent behavior among volunteers. Conclusion: The studies indicated poor adherence of the population to good self-care practices, reflected by the increase in complications related to DM.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are considered one of the most aggressive and expensive complications of diabetes. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been highlighted as a potential modality of treatment to accelerate the healing of ulcers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy of LLLT in the treatment of DFU and identify the LLLT application parameters recommended for the treatment of DFU over the past 10 years. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, BVS, PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL up to March 31, 2019. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effect of LLLT on the treatment of DFU were included. Thirteen RCTs with a total of 361 participants were included in this review. Three RCTs reported a reduction in the percentage size of the ulcers and were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis of the percentage size difference demonstrated a significant reduction in ulcer size in the LLLT group compared with controls (22.96 [95% confidence interval = 18.22-27.69; z = 9.51, P < .0001]). Treatment with 632.8 to 685 nm, 50 mW/cm², 3 to 6 J/cm², and irradiation for 30 to 80 seconds, 3 times weekly for a month is of benefit to patients with DFU. LLLT is effective and safe for the treatment of DFU. Additionally, well-designed, high-quality studies are needed to allow its ideal parameterization for clinical practice.