This flower smells like injured ants — and flies can’t resist it

A Japanese flower lures in its pollinators with a morbid perfume — the scent of injured ants. The unusual scent belongs to Vincetoxicum nakaianum, a recently named species of Japanese…

$2 Saliva Test Could Help Detect Depression and Schizophrenia

Summary: Scientists have developed a portable biosensor that can detect levels of BDNF, a protein linked to mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The flexible, low-cost…

Kai Shi | Between Drought and Grazing: The Ecological Secret Behind Solanum rostratum Invasion – Functional Ecologists

In this ‘Behind the Paper’ blog post, author Kai Shi, a PhD student at Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, delves into their article ‘Aridity and…

How AI can improve food safety and nutrition

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming food safety and nutrition practices by offering scalable, real-time, and personalized solutions. In food safety, AI enables predictive risk modeling, rapid contaminant detection, smart surveillance…

Deep Antarctic waters hold geometric communities of fish nests

Scientists found thousands of patterned fish nests in Antarctica’s Weddell Sea, boosting calls for marine protected areas.

When Using AI, Users Fall for the Dunning-Kruger Trap in Reverse

Summary: A new study reveals that when interacting with AI tools like ChatGPT, everyone—regardless of skill level—overestimates their performance. Researchers found that the usual Dunning-Kruger Effect disappears, and instead, AI-literate…

Polar bears provide millions of kilograms of food for other Arctic species

In a single year, one polar bear can leave roughly 300 kilograms of prey for other animals to dine on. Altogether, the carnivores provide 7.6 million kilograms of carrion for…

Daily Light and Sound Therapy May Slow Alzheimer’s Decline

Summary: A long-term study found that daily 40Hz light and sound stimulation may help slow cognitive decline in people with late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. After two years of treatment, participants maintained…

Brain Cells That May Prevent Schizophrenia Symptoms Identified

Summary: Researchers have identified a rare type of brain cell whose overactivity may contribute to schizophrenia-like symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and disrupted sleep. When scientists reduced the activity of…

Music and Nature Work in Harmony to Ease Stress and Lift Mood

Summary: The viral phrase “touch grass” may be more than internet humor—science shows that engaging with nature and music can significantly boost emotional and physical well-being. A new review found…