Researchers have found that sea urchins possess an "all-body brain" that challenges previous assumptions about echinoderm nervous systems, according to a study in Science Advances. The study reveals that sea urchins have a complex nervous system distributed throughout their bodies, similar to vertebrate heads.

Parasitic ants have been observed using chemical warfare to take over colonies of related species, according to a study in Current Biology. The parasitic queens spray the host queen with chemicals, triggering aggression among worker ants and leading to the queen's death. The invading queens then assume control of the colony.

Rising carbon dioxide levels are reducing the nutritional value of crops, according to research in Global Change Biology. The study shows that while crops grow faster with higher CO2, they contain fewer minerals such as zinc, iron and protein, posing a risk to global food security.

Researchers have found that using AI can reverse the Dunning-Kruger effect, leading to a universal tendency to overestimate abilities regardless of actual skill. The study in Computers in Human Behavior, involving logical reasoning tasks with and without AI assistance, reveals that AI users engage in "cognitive offloading," reducing critical thinking and metacognitive monitoring.

New modeling indicates that heatwave conditions will not return to pre-industrial levels for at least a thousand years after the world achieves net zero emissions -- challenging common perceptions that the climate will quickly improve once the target is reached and highlighting the need for long-term adaptation. The research in Environmental Research Climate also indicates that every five-year delay in achieving net zero between 2030 and 2060 will significantly worsen the severity and frequency of heatwaves.

A study in JAMA Pediatrics found that confirmed cases of child maltreatment decreased from 2012 to 2023, but disparities persisted, particularly among Black children and girls. Data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System showed that Black children had the highest rates of maltreatment across all subtypes, while girls experienced more maltreatment than boys, with the disparity for sexual abuse increasing over time.

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that self-hypnosis was associated with a 53% reduction in hot flashes for menopausal women, compared with a 41% decrease in a control group that listened to an audio file of white noise. "It can be practiced at home ... and it is relatively inexpensive compared to in-person sessions," said lead researcher Gary Elkins.

The University of Nebraska has received a $2.5 million grant from the Department of Energy to study ferroelectric oxides and quantum materials. The two-year grant, led by physics Professor Xia Hong, aims to use ferroelectric oxides to control materials in ways previously thought impossible, potentially leading to more powerful and energy-efficient electronic devices.

Sigma Xi proudly recognizes the 2025 cohort of Fellows. The Fellows program of Sigma Xi recognizes members who have achieved exceptional results in research or engineering, demonstrated sustained scholarship and mentorship, and contributed significantly to the mission of the Society. Meet the 18 Fellows.