Stanford Report, February 1, 2006

Cardinal Chronicle

BY MICHAEL PEÑA

ROBERT SAPOLSKY, professor of biological sciences and of neurology and neurological sciences, was truly in his element during a non-technical talk he gave on depression in Tresidder Union on Jan. 24. He began by saying that clinical depression affects about 20 percent of Americans and that it is the fourth leading cause of disability in this country. Much like an NFL coach drawing up plays in the locker room at halftime, Sapolsky used a marker and white board to sketch brain-chemistry waves and the interplay of neurotransmitters and hormones such as glutocorticoids, which are released during depression and disrupt the path of pleasure-inducing dopamine. Sapolsky's lunchtime talk, part of an informational series hosted by the Faculty and Staff Help Center, was filled with examples that "scream biology" and make the case "that depression is just as much a disease as diabetes."

In the Chinese animal zodiac, 2006 is the Year of the Dog. Translation: It's chow time. The Asian Staff Forum will host the Lunar New Year Potluck Lunch Party next Wednesday, but the last day to RSVP is today. Bring a dish simply for consumption—or for competition. Judging will likely be by a show of hands, and prizes will be awarded. But if you can't bring or buy something to share, $5 at the door will pay your way. The lunch will be from noon to 1 p.m. in the Asian American Activities Center's temporary location at the corner of Santa Teresa Street and Lomita Drive. RSVP to PHOENIX LIU at phoenixl@stanford.edu or to EDWARD WIEDEMANN at ewied@stanford.edu.

Of the 50 to 60 Health Improvement Program classes held each week, about 10 percent of them have seen an increase in participants, and this may be due in part to another New Year's tradition. HIP instructor JERRIE THURMAN said several participants recently have told her of their resolutions to get more fit. Thurman, who teaches classes on back health at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center and on the main campus, said enrollment in her classes has been steady. But yoga and Pilates classes that were also offered last quarter seem to have a few more bodies this time around, she said. As for next quarter, she said, "If we do get use of the Roble facility again, I would like to offer cardio classes there."