Weekend Wrap Up 4.2.17

Hey, hey, it’s Sunday! What are you up to this weekend? I opened my laptop yesterday to start writing this post. The draw of sand and sun, however quickly had me moving on to other activities. I’m away for a long weekend vacationing in Florida before heading off to chilly Chicago for a pharmacology conference. A weekend of restful nights, relaxing afternoons, and good eats has been exactly what I’ve needed after a crazy month at work. If you could use some reading material for your weekend of R&R, check out this week’s medical news stories on the lite side. 

The oldest nurse in America keeps a hectic schedule in the operating room at 91. Two days a week, Florence Rigney works an 8-hour OR shift. She wears a Fitbit to track the three miles or so of steps she takes each shift. 

A third of breast cancer patients are treated unnecessarily, says one study. Scientists behind the research say that some tumors are so slow growing that they’re essentially harmless. The data has renewed the debate over the value of early breast cancer detection. 

Yale students think they’ve found a natural cure for hangovers. SunUp, a citrus-flavored powder supplement that dissolves in water is intended to prime the body with essential ingredients to combat alcohol toxicity while balancing glutamine levels and countering immunological imbalances. Students say the remedy is backed by science. 

The Zika vaccine enters a new phase of testing. The $100 million trial will test the experimental vaccine in 2,500 volunteers in Puerto Rica, Brazil, Mexico and the U.S. The speed of testing will depend on the severity of outbreaks in countries taking part in the study as well as efficacy of the immunization. 

A blind teen is touched by the simple but rare act of a braille menu. 17-year-old Annalicia Herrera usually orders chicken fingers and fries as it’s an item available on most menus. But, at her most recent Red Robin visit she explored plenty of options. 

Why the newly proposed sepsis treatment needs more study. Dr. Paul Marik reports that his treatment for sepsis, a mix of IV corticosteroids, vitamin C, and vitamin B along with careful management of fluids is highly effective. The healthcare community is open to the idea that the treatment works but want data backed by a formal study.

Britain’s ‘Grandfather of Allergy’ going strong at 105. The famed physician was once asked by Saddam Hussein for treatment and also worked closely with Alexander Fleming. He continues to consult patients and contribute to medical journals.

Tetris now helping patients. Researchers are exploring use of the classic video game as a therapeutic tool for individuals suffering from PTSD, food cravings, and even amblyopia. 

Have a fantastic weekend!