For the first time since 1914, a new species of the Japanese lily known as sukashiyuri has been identified. An Osaka Metropolitan University-led research team analyzed the morphology and DNA of these lilies and has revised the conventional classification from four taxonomic groups to eight.

How do planets form? How do galaxies evolve? And ultimately, how did the universe itself begin? A unique astronomical observatory that researchers hope will unravel some of the biggest mysteries out there marks its opening on April 30, 2024.  

Quadcopters, the most popular type of low-cost drone, are being extensively used in many industrial fields. However, introducing grasping capabilities into these lightweight flying devices is challenging. In a recent study, researchers developed a self-folding origami gripper, which can be attached to a quadcopter to enable it to grasp small objects. Thanks to its low weight, respectable holding strength, and biodegradable properties, the proposed design could revolutionize how origami technology is incorporated into quadcopters.

High refractive index polymers (HRIPs) are essential for manufacturing modern optoelectronic devices, including displays and light sensors. However, high-performance HRIPs are expensive and environmentally unfriendly. Recently, a research team from Waseda University developed a new family of HRIPs called poly(thiourea)s. Thanks to unique intermolecular interactions, these compounds can be easily processed into low-cost transparent HRIPs for optoelectronic applications, as well as degraded and recycled through an inexpensive protocol, making them a sustainable option.

Researcher Ko Mochizuki of the University of Tokyo discovered that two species in the genus Angelica are pollinated primarily by hornets. This overturns the conventional belief that Angelica species are “generalists,” meaning that there is not one primary pollinator but a variety of species. As hornets are rarely primary pollinators, the discovery also impacts future ecological research and conservation efforts. The findings were published in the journal Ecology.

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a state-of-the-art imaging technique useful for determining the composition of a variety of objects. Specifically, over-thousand-nanometer (OTN) HSI is particularly useful for detecting organic substances and in medical imaging. In a new study, researchers have developed the world’s first rigid endoscope for visible-to-OTN HSI, utilizing supercontinuum lighting and an acoustic-opto tunable filter. This innovative system can pave the way for advanced medical imaging, helping both physicians and patients.

Samples reveal evidence of changes experienced by the surface of asteroid Ryugu, some probably due to micrometeoroid bombardment.