CEDARS-SINAI SCIENTISTS LOCALIZE NEW ATAXIA/EPILEPSY GENE
Neurogeneticists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles have localized SCA10, a gene involved with a rare form of inherited ataxia, a disease whose onset usually comes in early adulthood and that causes incoordination of gait and movement. The finding is reported in the February issue of the American Journal of Human Genetics.

SECRET TO MAINTAINING AN EXERCISE/FITNESS PROGRAM LIES IN FIRST "TRAINING YOUR BRAIN"
The secret to maintaining an exercise program may be "all in your mind," says Michael Gilewski, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and an active runner who has completed the Los Angeles, Honolulu and other marathons. When planning to train for a major event such as the Los Angeles Marathon, athletes need to start by first "training" their brain. Research in recent years has elaborated on the key functions the cerebellum plays in our habits, and maintaining a fitness program. Dr. Gilewski offers 7 tips for developing -- and sticking with -- a successful fitness program.

HOUSEWIDE PAIN MANAGEMENT INITIATIVE IS DESIGNED TO EFFECT FASTER HEALING BY REDUCING PAIN
Research indicates that the second biggest fear expressed by surgical patients is the pain they will have after surgery, and that proper patient education and preparation can result in 28 percent shorter hospital stays, better overall results and less pain. A unique housewide pain management initiative at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center brings together techniques from a wide range of disciplines, including behavioral interventions, to help minimize both acute and chronic pain.

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