The
Stanford researcher noted that most people are drawn to humor
and that it makes people feel good. "We seem to feel rewarded"
by humor, he said. Now, Reiss and his colleagues report that they
have zeroed in on the brain's reward system for humor. In the
study, volunteers had their brain activity monitored as they read
a series of cartoons. Some of the cartoons were supposed to be
funny, but others had the funny cues omitted. After viewing each
strip, participants pushed a button if they thought the comic
was funny. Researchers found that when a cartoon made a person
laugh, a brain network that is known to be involved in reward
was activated.

"I
believe that understanding humor is fundamental to understanding
many aspects of 'normal' human social behavior," Reiss said. Learning
more about the brain mechanisms that underlie humor may also help
scientists who study depression. Reiss noted that the loss of
the ability to appreciate humor is a common symptom of depression.
"We believe that utilizing studies such as this may be one
way to more specifically identify individuals at risk for depressive
disorders." The research may also be useful in measuring
a person's response to treatment for depression. The humor reward
system in the brain may come "on line" even before symptoms
of depression change, according to Reiss. The
research may also help explain "humorless" people, who,
Reiss noted, may have serious problems in relationships. "Perhaps
they are missing this reward link in their circuitry."

RÉSUMÉ BLOOPERS

Just
how
bad a mistake can you make on your résumé?
Here are some real-life examples:
"Instrumental
in ruining entire operation for a Midwest chain store."
"Education:
Curses in liberal arts, curses in computer science, curses in accounting."
"Personal:
Married, 1992 Chevrolet."
"I
have an excellent track record, although I am not a horse."
"I am a rabid typist."

"Exposure to German for two years, but many words are not appropriate
for business"
"Proven
ability to track down and correct erors."
"I
have become completely paranoid, trusting completely nothing and
absolutely no one."
"Personal
interests: Donating blood. 15 gallons so far."

"Don't take the comments of my former employer too seriously,
they were unappreciative beggars and slave drivers."
"References:
None, I've left a path of destruction behind me."
"My
goal is to be a meteorologist. But since I possess no training in
meteroology, I suppose I should try stock brokerage."
"I
procrastinate - especially when the task is unpleasant."
"I
am loyal to my employer at all costs ... Please feel free to resond
to my resume on my office voicemanil."

"Disposed of $2.5 billion in assets."
"Extensive
background in accounting. I can also stand on my head!"
"Accomplishments:
Oversight of entire department."
"My
intensity and focus are at inordinately high levels, and my ability
to complete projects on time is unspeakable."

~TopGreetings.com