UMBC Professor and neuroscientist, Dr. Robert Provine, has studied laughter for the past two decades. In this week’s roundup, we take a peek into how laughter can actually boost workplace team dynamics and creativity. We also take a look at topics such as how satellites help ward off floods, tech support scams, social justice cartography, and responsibility for data security.
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Laughter – A Tool for Creativity in the Workplace?
UMBC Professor and neuroscientist, Dr. Robert Provine, has studied laughter for the past two decades. “Laughter is the quintessential human social signal. Laughter is about relationships,” says Dr. Provine.
Let’s face it, many of us are programmed to feel funny about breaking out into a good hearty laugh in the workplace. People might think we’ve got a little too much time on our hands. But, Provine’s studies show that we’re 30 times more likely to laugh when we’re with others than when we’re alone. In other words, laughter creates connection (not to mention reduces stress), both great tools for creativity ingenuity.
Can Satellites Help Ward off Floods?
Whenever an emergency warning flashes across a smartphone screen, it’s serious business. Flash flooding, specifically from rivers, is one of the most common and devastating natural disasters on this planet. A new study in Geophysical Research Letters takes a close look at satellites being a tool to mitigate flood damage and improve reservoir management in the future.
Tech Support Scams on the Rise
According to Microsoft’s newest statistics, tech support scams have risen 24% since 2016. Of this percentage, 15% say they lost cash as a result, losing about $200 to $400. Which devices are most at risk? All, including mobile and Apple devices. One thing to keep in mind, tech support will not proactively reach out to you and offer their help. So, be careful of such phone calls.
Social Justice Cartography Raises Awareness for Activism
The Anti-Eviction Mapping Project is part of a rising tide of social justice cartography, where maps are being harnessed for activism as the technology becomes more accessible. Digital mapping tools are used to help with outreach efforts to increase resources for tenants who fall victim to eviction trends.
Securing Data | Who is Responsible?
It takes a village… Screech. Halt. Hang on. Does this really apply to data security, too? According to this article in Small Biz Daily, securing data is everyone’s business. No doubt, consumers are on edge. More than ever, their data is breached, leaving them vulnerable to headaches that don’t go away easily. But, with a few easy-to-implement best practices, everyone involved in data security can step up their role in creating a safer environment for consumers.