In the aftermath of the pandemic, remote work has become very common, but is it productive? A study by Kenan-Flagler Business School’s Chloe Glaeser, Eva Labro and Stephen Glaeser found being closer to corporate headquarters makes scientists and research facilities more productive and creative. “We saw firsthand how disruptions to proximity can make coordinating, brainstorming and creating harder,” Glaeser told Phys.org.

In an opinion piece for the New York Times, Jessica Grose explores the possibility that Americans are spending more time alone simply because they’re tired and how the growing trend is not worrisome yet. Associate professor and CITAP researcher Alice Marwick told Grose “relationships happen everywhere all at once” and conversations that happen across mediums can be valuable to picking up relationships or friendships where they left off.

Few studies have investigated this question but pediatric dentist and microbiologist Dr. Apoena de Aguiar Ribeiro says there’s no definitive answer with pros and cons for each option. Another Carolina expert, pediatric dentistry professor Dr. Rocio Quinonez, tells the New York Times brushing should be integrated into your “getting up” routine to prevent forgetting or running out of time.