Maple syrup smell culprit unmasked

While researching the phenomena that may have led to one of the great mysteries of life in Washington Heights, I ran across this unsettling factoid:

A side effect of consuming even small amounts of fenugreek (even as just an infusion in water) is a maple syrup or curry smell in the eater's sweat and urine, which is caused by the potent aroma compound sotolone.

I think it is clear that upper-west-side Indian buffet diners were abusing the methi dishes, then perspiring and pissing until the smell of maple syrup engulfed the Heights. CC&P, I think its safe to kick it back down to a yellow alert.

Turkish delight

I highly recommend the Tatli Hayat (aka "the sweet life"), a Turkish sitcom that has been provided with several sets of alternate subtitles on Wholphin No 1 from McSweeney's.