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Japan's high-tech toilets, known for their warm seats and precision spray technology, are becoming popular worldwide, especially in the United States. Japanese company TOTO, a pioneer in electric bidets, has seen a surge in overseas sales, with revenue doubling since 2012. The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the increased demand for bidet toilets as consumers seek alternatives to toilet paper. However, US competitors are challenging Japanese brands in the bidet market. Meanwhile, the Philippines is experiencing a brain drain in the cybersecurity sector, with a surge in cyber attacks highlighting the country's digital security skills gap. The government has launched a cybersecurity strategy to strengthen defenses, but industry analysts warn of shortages of skilled cybersecurity professionals. The shortage of cybersecurity professionals is a global issue, with around 4 million vacancies worldwide. The Philippines faces domestic shortages due to migration and inadequate training opportunities. The government is taking steps to boost recruitment and improve training programs in cybersecurity. [Extracted from the article]

Japan's high-tech toilets, known for their warm seats and precision spray technology, are becoming popular worldwide, especially in the United States. Japanese company TOTO, a pioneer in electric bidets, has seen a surge in overseas sales, with revenue doubling since 2012. The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to the increased demand for bidet toilets as consumers seek alternatives to toilet paper. However, US competitors are challenging Japanese brands in the bidet market. Meanwhile, the Philippines is experiencing a brain drain in the cybersecurity sector, leading to a skills gap. The country has seen a rise in cyber threats and digital intrusions, prompting the government to launch a cybersecurity strategy. However, the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals and inadequate training opportunities pose challenges to addressing the issue. Globally, there is a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with around 4 million vacancies worldwide. Developing countries are particularly affected by this shortage. [Extracted from the article]

An interview with photographer Earl Carter is presented. He reflects on his upbringing in Melbourne, early exposure to photography in Japan, and his lifelong dedication to the craft. He discusses his diverse portfolio, emphasizing the importance of understanding light and experimentation in capturing subjects naturally, particularly in the realm of Australian food photography.

The article reports on the Japanese government's roll out of toilet papers for smartphones in lavatories at Narita International Airport in December 2016. The article reports on the Japanese government's roll out of toilet papers for smartphones in lavatories at Narita International Airport in December 2016.

Reports on the merger between Japanese paper manufacturers New Oji Paper Co. and Honshu Paper Co.

TOKYO -- It is the second wild boardroom drama to shake up corporate Japan in days: the country's leading tissue maker, Daio Paper, said on Friday that it would file a criminal complaint against its former chairman, accusing him of illicitly borrowing $140 million in company money and channeling some of it to a Las Vegas casino company. The controversy provides yet another lens into the seemingly free-wheeling behavior -- and disregard for corporate governance -- still seen among top management at some of Japan's leading companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the tissue papers manufactured by Nakabayshi K.K. by recycling research papers and other documents from the University of Tokyo in Japan. The company produces at least 1,000 rolls of toilet paper a month for the university. The toilet paper is not for sale and is only use at the university. Its logo bears the words recycled toilet paper.

The article reports that the coronavirus pandemic is exposing how Japan is unable to work from home due to its work traditions and company culture. Topics covered include the reason middle managers in Japan's team-oriented workplaces are hesitant to allow employees to work from home, the response of Japanese companies on the sudden need for social distancing and the effort of the government to urge companies and local government offices to move their functions online even before the pandemic.

Discusses the hard work and study it takes to become a lawyer in Japan. Examples of persons trying to pass exam; Number of persons who take test every year; Differences in settling disputes between Amercans, and Japanese.

This article reports on the effect of an erroneous stock order by brokerage firm Nikko Citigroup Ltd. for paper maker Nippon Paper Group Inc. on the company's share prices in Japan.

Reports on the holding of a survey of the Japanese photographic film and paper market by Japan's Fair Trade Commission due to a dispute over practices by Eastman Kodak Co. and Fuji Photo Film. Commission's recognition of the oligopolistic structures in the markets; Kodak chairman George Fisher's call for the United States to take action against Japan for its refusal to negotiate on the dispute.

Reports that Tokyo, Japan subway operators decided to supply toilet tissue for their commuters. Reason why its was previously discontinued.

The article reports that Japan's Defense Ministry has warned that China's military power is gaining on Taiwan and that Taipei's qualitative superiority of fighting forces may soon be lost, posing a threat to stability in the region. The ministry also expressed concern over neighboring North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs as a serious threat against the peace and stability of Northeast Asia.

The article reports on the live-fire military drill along the southeast coast of China. The military exercise is considered as the country's response to the 2013 Defense White Paper issued by Japan identifying the country and North Korea as major regional challenges to the security of Japan. The country calls Japan to stop provoking it with regards to the disputed Senkaku islands.

The article reports that the Japanese Defense Ministry has officially warned of the growing power of China's military. The white paper released by the agency on national defense states that China has been modernizing its military forces, with total defense spending rapidly and continuously increasing. The report warned that senior Chinese military officials have said that possession of an aircraft carrier, and maritime activities in the sea surrounding Japan have been intensifying.

Discusses how Maspro Denkoh Corp.'s president, Takashi Hashiyama, had Christie's International and Sotheby's Holdings play a game of rock, paper, scissors to determine which he would hire to auction off Maspro's collection of Impressionist paintings. How Takashi resorted to the game, a popular way to make arbitrary decisions in Japan, after the two auctioneers presented similar proposals; Frustration of the auctioneers, who poured money into the proposals; Victory of Christie's in the game.

Focuses on the art collection of Maspro Denkoh Corporation, an electronics company based outside of Nagoya, Japan. Worth of the collection; Decision-making method that was used by Takashi Hashiyama, president of the company, to determine whether Christie's or Sotheby's should sell the collection; The use of such games of chance in Japanese culture; Details of the traditional decision-making process involving rock, paper or scissors; Pronouncement of Christie's as the winner.

Reports that diplomatic papers published in Tokyo, Japan in December 8, 1999 suggested that the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1999 involved a deception effort by the Japanese government. Efforts of Japan to avoid hinting at war with the United States; Researcher who discovered the papers in the Japanese Foreign Ministry archives; Confirmation of the genuineness of the diplomatic papers.

The article reports on controversy over a paper published by researchers at Japan's Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine. At a news conference Dean Masaya Tohyama announced that an investigation, the results of which were not made public, found "flaws" and "immature data" in the paper based on "inadequacies" in its preparation. The paper's author, researcher Dr. Iichiro Shimomura, says the accusations are not substantiated and are politically based, and he is considering legal action. Shimomura's lawyer questions how the university could release his client's name to the press when they have no intent of charging him with fraud or disciplining him. The journal "Science," in which the paper was published, is following the situation but has no plans to retract the paper.

The article focuses on ukiyo-e paintings of Japan exhibited at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, Massachusetts. The collection is described as sensuous, hedonistic and occasionally erotic Japanese paintings. The MFA sent 69 of its ukiyo-e paintings on tour, first to museums in Japan then to other museums in North America. The paintings have three formats including hanging scrolls, handscrolls and screens.

Focuses on the development of electronic readers that allow users to read books and other works digitally. Sale of electronic readers by Sony and Matsushita Electric Industrial in Japan; Description of the Sony Librie and Panasonic SigmaBook electronic readers; Problems encountered with the readers.

Discusses Japan's financial crisis. Growth of the economy that has not been sustained; Governments that have attempted to resolve the crisis; Example of Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi; Competition with China and South Korea; History of Japan's economy; Debt that the nation faces.

Reports on how the stance of business newspaper `Nihon Keizai Shimbun' over the shuffling of stock index affected the stock market of Japan. Printing of the views of Finance Minister Kiichi Miyaza and its rebuttal by the newspaper; Decline of Japanese stock market in May 2000.

Reports that the newspaper `Yomiuri Shimbun' of Japan decided to ban advertising for two of its weekly magazines after receiving complaints about the sexual content of the advertisements. Implications of the advertising ban on women's rights in Japan; Effect of the ban on other newspapers' advertising policies for sexually explicit materials; Details on the advertisements.

Reports that the `Asahi Shimbun' newspaper of Japan apologized on January 1, 1999 for pressuring Princess Masako after she miscarried. Number of people that complained about an article about Masako's pregnancy; Views of the newspaper on the princess as a public figure; Date of the announcement of Masako's miscarriage.

This article reports that the Riken Center for Developmental Biology in Kobe, Japan accused female scientist Haruko Obokata of fabricating data, doctoring images and plagiarism in papers that were published in the British journal "Nature" in January 2014. This has raised questions about the authenticity of the work of other scientists such as Ryoji Noyori, Riken’s president, and Shinya Yamanaka, a professor at Kyoto University.

Pays tribute to Muneyuki Matsushita, president of Japanese newspaper `Asahi Shimbun,' who died on February 10, 1999. Cause of his death; Background on Matsushita.

The article reports that inflation has been a concern in Japan due to increased spending in its paper money system. It notes that the impact of quantitative easing efforts by the central bank has been minimal. It mentions that the debt load of Japan can be manageable from inflation which instigates competitiveness in industries.

Recounts that one of the casualties of Kobe's earthquake was the Takatori Catholic Church. How it was reopened on September 17, 1995, exactly eight months after the disaster; How Shigeru Ban, an American-trained Tokyo architect, came upon the ruins and provided help; Its tented roof made out of Teflon-coated fabric; Ban and his volunteer university students. INSET: Under tubes and tents.

The article discusses the criticism Japan has faced for building its own market with Australian LNG while simultaneously criticizing Australia for diverting gas exports to cut domestic prices. Japan's chief executive of INPEX, Takayuki Ueda, expressed concerns about Australia's reduction in LNG business and its potential geopolitical consequences. However, Japan's energy security is currently stable, with renewables on the rise and a decrease in LNG consumption. The article also highlights Japan's investments in Australian gas projects and the potential economic unsustainability of Australian LNG due to competition from Qatar and the United States. [Extracted from the article]

A new paper argues that GDP per capita is becoming a less useful indicator of living standards and prosperity as the world ages. Instead, the authors suggest focusing on GDP per working-age adult. Japan, often cited as an example of economic stagnation, actually leads the G-7 in terms of growth per working-age adult. As many countries' working-age populations start to shrink before their overall populations, GDP per working-age adult will be a valuable guide to economic performance. Despite concerns about Japanification, Japan has still done reasonably well and has a high standard of living. [Extracted from the article]

Reports on the plan to Japanese Defense Agency to issue another annual defense white paper as a version of a "manga" comic book to increase readership of the white paper.

GLO:FDQM/09jul20:-114544.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): . gl Japan will craft new rules and support infrastructure in a drive that aims to build offshore wind farms at 30 sites during the next decade, the Nikkei business daily said on Thursday. Japan's offshore wind power market is set to grow after a law, the Offshore Wind Promotion Act, enforced last year to assist development I (Reporting by Yuka Obayashi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) i. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses three islands in Japan's Seto Inland Sea that have been transformed into avant-garde art installations. Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima were once fishing villages and industrial areas, but they have been revitalized with contemporary art, architecture, and rice paddies. The islands offer visitors a unique perspective on time, mortality, and the passage of life. The article highlights specific installations, such as a pitch-dark room that gradually reveals a cinema screen and a memorial to life that features heartbeats from around the world. The islands provide an opportunity for deep reflection and contemplation. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the U.S. National Defense University (NDU) report citing transparency in Chinese military. According to the report, there has been a modest but gradual increase in transparency in the Chinese military policies since 1998 to 2008. As stated, the report is in stark contrast to statements given by senior defense and military officials and Asian nations like Japan.

The article provides information on a report published by a Japanese newspaper stating that a Japanese diplomat compromised sensitive counterterrorism information as a result of a computer virus. A third secretary at the Japanese embassy in Trinidad and Tobago leaked the information as the result of using shareware on his private computer. Some 30 files were disclosed, including the contact list for appointment papers created by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and greetings addressed to the ambassador by a former Public Security Intelligence.

The article reports allegations made by Japanese university professors that the Japanese government has pressured them to play down the impact of the Fukushima nuclear meltdown that took place in March 2011. Topics discussed include the lack of funding available from the Japanese government to perform research at the Fukushima site, allegations that the Japanese nuclear lobby holds power over the nation's universities, and questions about the radiation levels that resulted from the meltdown.

IN honor of Persephone!'' she announced, cracking open a pinkish orb. She handed me half and I stared, shocked, at the gleaming maroon seeds. She was plucking them with abandon, letting the juice stain her fingers, not caring. I tried to breathe. It was winter in Pittsburgh, I was 18 years old, and I had never seen a pomegranate. I'd met her weeks after arriving in Pittsburgh for college. Somewhat randomly her boyfriend had asked me: ''Would you like to come to our party? We're going to have this Balkan band from Albuquerque and a Norwegian folk singer play, an Indonesian shadow puppet performance, and everyone has to bring a pie.'' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing Japan's worst recession in decades, the Bank of Japan said on Thursday that it would buy 1 trillion yen, or $10.7 billion, in corporate bonds, extend its purchases of commercial paper and maintain its near-zero interest rate to ease a crippling credit squeeze. The central bank voted unanimously to maintain its key policy rate at 0.1 percent. It said it would also buy prime-grade corporate bonds and commercial paper, or short-term corporate debt, until September, six months longer than planned. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This article reports that the Tokyo, Japan-based University of Tokyo has closed the research laboratory of a chemistry professor accused of fabricating test results in at least 12 published papers. An investigative committee appointed by the university reported late last month that at least 12 of the experiments cited by the professor, Kazunari Taira, in articles that had appeared in the journal "Nature" and other prominent international journals could not be replicated. Yoichiro Matsumoto, head of the committee, said that it would issue a final report in March 2006. A separate panel will consider possible disciplinary action against Taira and other researchers.

Announces that the European Union (EU) has submitted to the World Trade Organization (WTO) arguments backing the United States and Eastman Kodak Company that Japan is restricting foreign companies from its film and photographic paper market. How these practices are in violation of WTO rules; What the ruling will project about the WTO's authority.

Reports that Japan's deepening recession is forcing companies to restructure. Companies that have revealed restructuring plans; Prediction of Pelham Smithers, a strategist with ING Baring Securities (Japan) Ltd.; Financial condition of Nikon Corp. and Daishowa Paper Manufacturing Co.; Implications of slumping corporate profits.

Focuses on the international antitrust cases being looked at by a number of United States grand juries. Sharing of information by Japanese-owed paper makers leading to criminal price fixing; Contention of critics that assaults, such as the one on Japanese paper firms, are testing the limits of US law by reaching into the sovereign affairs of other nations; View of international cases from US officials.

Presents a criticism of Japan's protected consumer market by George M.C. Fisher, the chairman of Eastman Kodak company. Mr. Fisher's views on the control of consumer photo film and paper market by Fuji Photo Film; Reasons for Mr. Fisher's attack on the Motorola's cellular telephones; Investigation of Japan's consumer photo products market.

Reports that the architect of the Paper Dome Takatori in Kobe, Japan, Shigeru Ban, has decided to build homes for Vietnamese immigrants in the Nagata Ward, using his paper tube technology. What Ban did to solicit money for his venture; Comments from Ban; Reaction to the house.

Reports that the European Union has joined the United States' efforts at the World Trade Organization to end what it contends is Japanese trade discrimination against foreign producers of film and photographic paper.

Reports that two Japanese companies agreed to plead guilty to charges of criminal price fixing of fax paper and to pay fines of more than $3.5 million. Fines may exceed over ten million dollars following the approval of the court; The two companies, Mitsubishi paper Mills Ltd. and New Oji Paper co., of Tokyo to disagree with the allegation but ready to pay the fines to avoid expenses.

The article discusses the Japanese political right-wing's criticisms of former journalist Takashi Uemura over an article he wrote for "The Asahi Shimbun" newspaper examining whether the Japanese Imperial Army forced women to work in military brothels during World War II. Topics addressed include the paper's retraction of a number of articles under pressure from conservatives, as well as revisionist accounts of Japanese history.

The article focuses on IsraAID from Israel as the first group to provide aid for tsunami victims in Japan. Heal Our Hearts, a combination of music, movement, and art therapy, was developed by IsraAID. The therapy takes place in 10 centers by the IsraAID team and is accessible to all on a walk-in basis. A certificate of appreciation was presented to IsraAID from Miyagi Prefecture Yoshihiro Murai for its work in Tohoku, Japan.

The article discusses the historical awareness of the Japanese people to natural disasters. The Shinto religion, it is observed, focuses on appeasing the forces of nature. Traditional Japanese architecture incorporates wood and paper as building materials, reflective of an understanding that human structures are not meant to last forever. The author believes that the Japanese character will aid in helping that nation recover from a March, 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Reports on the financial performance of the Japanese banks Mizuho Financial Group, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group and UFJ Holdings in the first half of their fiscal year. Benefits derived by the banks from an improved economy, rising share prices and a tax refund from the Tokyo government; One-time gains and paper profits generated by an increase in Japanese stocks in the six months that ended September 30, 2003.

The article reports on global business developments. Topics mentioned include the appointment of Toshihiro Yamamoto as chief executive officer (CEO) at Japan's advertising company Dentsu Inc., resignation of top level executives at India's online retailer Flipkart Online Services Pvt. Ltd. after its restructuring, and the move of American social media company Instagram Inc. to bring many advertisers into its Instagram Stories feature to boost its advertising revenue.

The author reflects on the bombardment on Hiroshima, Japan in 1945 and the survival of the little two-year old girl Sadako Sasaki from the incident.

The article discusses the criticism that is being directed at Japanese scientist Teruhiko Wakayama in 2014 in the wake of an investigation into his stem cell research techniques which were published in the journal "Nature," focusing on a research paper retraction request by Wakamaya.

The article discusses a white paper released by the Japanese administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Japanese national security policies and Japan's interest in tightening Japan-U.S. relations, in light of China's military influence toward the region and territorial disputes.

The article discusses a "Defense White Paper" issued by the Japanese government on July 31, 2012 that expresses concern about the growing influence of China's military over Chinese foreign policy, and notes Japan's government has called for greater surveillance and security measures around the Senkaku Islands.

AS the kimono fell out of style, so too did Nishijin, the historic textile district in northwestern Kyoto. These days, the neighborhood's narrow, quiet lanes north of Imadegawa and west of Horikawa have fallen off the tourist map. But in recent years, local artists and artisans have opened small shops and studios in the neighborhood, many in the traditional wooden houses called machiya, spurring a revival. Here, time-honored Japanese traditions get a modern spin -- from hand-printed paper to classic confections -- with nary a souvenir chopstick in sight. INGRID K. WILLIAMS [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EVENING was falling in the old Japanese capital of Kyoto, and I was tucking myself into a container slightly larger than a refrigerator. I pulled down the shade and, after a bit of contorting, lay down, the wall a few inches from my feet. It was a dainty little space, about 3 1/4 feet wide and 6 1/2 feet long, charmingly traditional with rice-paper latticework and two woven-reed mats. I felt like an origami crane as I folded my 6-foot-2-inch frame into this ''tatami capsule.'' The eight units at Capsule Ryokan (204 Tsuchihashicho, Shimogyo-ku; capsule-ryokan-kyoto.com) go for 3,500 yen a night, about $46 at 76 yen to the dollar. You don't get a lot of real estate for your yen, though the box had plenty of modern conveniences: a small LCD TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, dimmable lighting and a wall-mounted alarm clock. The capsules are stacked in pairs, with chrome ladders at their entrances. Upstairs, the 32 en-suite rooms offer more space for sleeping -- about three tatami mats' worth -- and the luxury of a compact rain shower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVALS (Saturday and Sunday) Their blossoms have colorful but fleeting lives, so the time is now to see the city's cherry trees in all their splendor. Many of the celebrations, always annual displays of rebirth, are especially so this year; they are helping earthquake relief efforts in Japan. The grande dame of celebrations, the Sakura Matsuri at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, is in its 30th year and will offer sounds, sights and tastes of Japan on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors can make paper cranes that will be matched by charitable donations from a philanthropic organization, or write their thoughts on tea-stained sacks that will be pinned together to make a tea quilt. On Roosevelt Island, above, a cherry blossom festival with Japanese-theme entertainment and food is planned for Saturday, from 1 to 3 p.m., on the West Promenade, with a grove of trees dedicated to the people of Japan. On Sunday a walking tour of the blooming trees on Roosevelt Island -- with a look at the island's history as well -- will meet at 11 a.m. at the Visitor Center Kiosk at the Tram Plaza; a $5 donation is suggested. Roosevelt Island is reachable by tram, bus, car and subway; rioc.com; rihs.us. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Avenue, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn; (718) 623-7200; bbg.org.; $15; $10 for students, 65+ and children 12 and older; free for children under 12 and members. Not to rush you, but one good windstorm, and the show will be all over. (Anne Mancuso) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TOKYO -- Japanese regulators and executives of the Tokyo Electric Power Company are asking questions about a seemingly coordinated series of stock purchases two weeks ago that led to an undisclosed buyer or buyers acquiring a large block of the utility, which owns Japan's dangerously damaged nuclear power plant. Regulators want to know whether the trades, valued at up to $600 million and placed from Hong Kong during the week of April 3, were structured to circumvent Japanese securities laws, which require the owner of more than 5 percent of a publicly traded company to file disclosure papers identifying the shareholder. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

What does it mean, in the 21st century, for a Western artist to borrow heavily from aesthetic traditions of the East? It's a question that hovers around the career retrospective ''Rebecca Salter: Into the Light of Things'' at the Yale Center for British Art and the pendant show ''Rebecca Salter and Japan'' at the Yale University Art Gallery. Ms. Salter is a British artist who spent six years, in the late 1970s and early 1980s, in Kyoto, Japan, working first in ceramics before switching to two dimensions. Her canvases and works on paper -- many objects here combine the two mediums -- draw upon centuries-old traditions in ceramics, as well as Japanese calligraphy and woodblock prints. They also sync up, however, with Western abstraction, monochrome painting and midcentury Minimalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIGASHI-MATSUSHIMA, Japan -- Outside the public gymnasium here, on a hillock about a mile from the Pacific Ocean, survivors of the tsunami came and went all day on Monday, searching for the dead. Two hundred and sixteen sheets of printer paper were stuck on a wall, one for every body brought to the gymnasium so far, some with names, most bearing only physical descriptions. Hands anxiously clutched to mouths, people pored over them until, finding nothing, most turned away in relief. Syunsuke Doi, 22, did not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AFTER nearly four decades of work Toyo Ito has earned a cult following among architects around the world, although he is little known outside his home country, Japan. Through his strange and ethereal buildings, which range from modest houses for the urban recluse to a library whose arched forms have the delicacy of paper cutouts, he has created a body of work almost unmatched in its diverse originality. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article focuses on the plan of the Japanese central bank to keep taking steps to make financial conditions in the country accommodative and that excessive meddling might affect the way it functions, according to Bank of Japan policy-board member Tadao Noda during a meeting with business leaders in Naha, Okinawa. The local credit markets will reportedly benefit from the acquisition of more commercial paper and corporate bonds by Bank of Japan, according to analysts and investors. The idea was not supported by Noda.

The Bank of Japan should consider ways to influence longer-term interest rates and corporate debt products if more easing steps are needed, a policy board member, Hidetoshi Kamezaki, said. In one of the boldest comments yet by a Bank of Japan board member on unorthodox policy measures, Mr. Kamezaki also said the bank should study to what extent it could take on risk assets like corporate bonds and shares. Mr. Kamezaki also said he expected the world economy to stagnate more in months to come, adding that the central bank would use all possible means to ensure market stability. His comments came less than a week after the central bank cut interest rates to 0.10 percent and adopted measures like increasing its buying of Japanese government bonds and temporarily purchasing commercial paper outright. Unlike the Federal Reserve in the United States, which has taken unorthodox measures and more than doubled its balance sheet in just a few months, the Bank of Japan has been cautious about transcending its traditional role as provider of liquidity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article announces the plan of Japan's Financial Services Agency to ease some accounting regulations for domestic banks. The agency aims to lessen pressure on the capital bases of domestic banks from the declines in global asset prices. According to the agency, the new guidelines will allow banks in the country to avoid having paper losses on certain financial assets reflected in their capital adequacy.

The article reports on moves by the Bank of Japan to strengthen markets including eased share-buyback conditions and fund injections into regional banks. While the bank maintained its key overnight call rate target at 0.5%, it broadened the range of asset-backed commercial paper eligible for market operations. Bank of Japan Governor Masaaki Shirakawa said the bank will strengthen money-market functions including the payment of interest to banks' reserve accounts.

The article reports on the popularity of adult diapers in Japan and the plan of the Health Ministry to scrap the healthcare insurance program for seniors.

Gallery 91's bento boxes can be used as they would be in Japan, to hold individual servings of each course of a meal, for a high-style box lunch. But the small cardboard bowls, which are decorated with traditional porcelain patterns, also make appealing organizers for paper clips, rubber bands or even jewelry. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Japan's work force of 66.5 million people is set to shrink by more than one-third, to 42 million, by 2050 if the country fails to reverse a declining birthrate, the government said in a report. The white paper outlined potential measures to address the labor problem, including earmarking $15 billion to $23 billion to encourage women to resume working after having children by improving child-care centers and making maternity leave more flexible. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article focuses on female administrators and officials at colleges and universities in Japan. It explains that few women work in top management positions in the country's higher education system. The reasons behind the lack of gender equity are explored, including a shortage of women in academic fields. Information about the female representation among Japan's other businesses is offered, as well as how Japan's rates compare to those of female representation in management positions in the U.S. The social aspects of women as homemakers in Japan are explored, and the recruitment of women for jobs in higher education is discussed.

The article presents information on the new line of furniture designed for the Japanese market by the lifestyle store, Cibone. It states that Cibone has launched "Non-design Design," a collection of 20 objects from eight international designers. Information on Dutch craftsman, Piet Hein Eek, using local woodworking techniques, and Israeli designer, Ron Gilad's, lamps of traditional rice paper shades, is also provided.

The article reports on the retirement of sumo wrestler Kotokanyu after punching an opponent in the face. His retirement papers were submitted to the Japan Sumo Association by Sadogatake, who runs the sumo stable where Kotokanyu belongs. Kotokanyu's action was the latest incident of violence to shatter the image of the Japanese sport.

Profiles mementoes from a postwar prison in Japan for Japanese war criminals. Examples of some of the objects, included a picture frame fashioned from rice paste and pages from Life magazine, delicate pencil drawings, and a cigarette box woven from toilet paper; Dedication of New York artist Bill Barrette to piecing together a story about life at Sugamo Prison in Tokyo during the American occupation of Japan; Inspiration from items collected by a relative who was a guard in the prison; Signs of a tranquil relationship between prisoners and guards; Descriptions of some of the drawings depicting life in at Sugamo.

Discusses a campaign by the governor of Iwate prefecture in Japan encouraging residents to renounce effort and adopt a more leisurely lifestyle. Popularity of Governor Hiroya Masuda's campaign, which emphasizes living a more fulfilling life closer to nature and away from the economic pressures of the city; How Japan's slowing economy of the 1990's caused many Japanese to question whether their hard work was really worth it; Japan's nascent slow-life movement, in which small towns are promoting green tourism where urban visitors come to work on a farm, search mountains for vegetables and make traditional paper.

Provides information on the Japanese culture. Overview of the Taisho era; Position of women in the social and cultural tension in interwar Japan; Complexity in the modern Japanese woman concept.

Presents several shops and museums in Kurashiki, a district in Japan. Prices of hand-crafted paper at Kaze No Yakata; Admission at the Chokin-bako Hakubutsukan; Exhibitions at the Ohara Bijutsukan.

Presents world business briefs as of April 27, 2001. Downgrade of the Japanese government's estimate for economic growth in the final 3 months of 2000; Investigation of hidden debts of Asia Pulp and Paper Company; Passage of a law in Turkey which grants autonomy to the Central Bank; Others.

Offers the author's reflections on a visit to Hiroshima, Japan, site of the explosion from the atomic bomb dropped by the United States in 1945. Details about the experience of Hiroshima citizen Junko Kayashige and her family in the aftermath of the atomic bomb; Hiroshima's present condition as a major Japanese city; Description of the Peace Park and Peace Museum in the city.

Reports on a tactic that is being used by married couples in Japan that enables women to keep their maiden names. Details on the Japanese law that requires a husband and wife to share the same family name; Description of the tactic that couples use, dubbed 'paper divorce/remarriage'; Why the name issue is creating controversy in Japan.

Analyzes the economic and political conditions in Japan. Details on a paper issued by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology concerning Japan's economy; Economic impact of the country's public debt; Skepticism on budget balancing through taxes.

Discusses the economic conditions in Japan. Information on Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi's emphasis on crisis management; Role of the Bank of Japan in interbank and commercial paper market; Issue on government debt; Source of optimism for Japan.

Discusses American Trade negotiator Micky Cantor's plans to initiate talks with Japan to open its restricted markets in computers, wood paper and financial services. Details of agreement between United States and Japan; Excerpts of Cantor's interview; Editorial comment from Japanese daily Mainichi Shibum; Significance of failure in agreement to open Japanese market in automobiles, auto parts; Japanese indications; Details of accord; Critics views on accord.

Says that the Japanese government, under pressure from the US, has published new regulations prohibiting companies from fixing prices, driving competitors out of the market and blocking certain types of imports, in what could mark--on paper at least--a big change in the way Japan does business. Question of how strictly the rules will be enforced by Japan; The `keiretsu' system; Japanese companies prohibited from enforcing `suggested retail prices.'

Reports on Eastman Kodak Co.'s lawsuit filed with the Japan Fair Trade Commission against Fuji Photo Film Co. for alleged anticompetitive practices in Japan's photographic film and paper market. Kodak's accusation of a conspiracy between the Japanese government and Fuji Film to keep Kodak film off store shelves in the country; Turnover of the case to World Trade Organization.

States that the Japanese government has accepted the American government's request for talks about a dispute on photographic film and paper under the World Trade Organization.

Presents information on the trade fight between the United States and Japan over photographic film and paper. Belief that the Japanese government and Fuji Photo Film Company conspired to keep lower priced foreign film out of the Japanese market; Comments from United States Trade Representative, Mickey Kantor; Details of the trade fight.

Presents news briefs on business and finance. Clinton administration to announce a list of Japanese products on which tariffs have been imposed; Automobile trade fight between the two countries; Paper losses on investments incurred by The Wisconsin Investment Board; Japan's Aoki Corporation's sale of its Westin Hotel chain.

Presents three brief news articles for August 6, 1998. Appeal by Japanese candymakers to men; Record-setting cantaloupe of Bill Rogerson, North Carolina; Top ten states with the highest incarceration rates.

Talks about the symbolism of Hiroshima, Japan, which is known as the city of peace in the modern nuclear world. Peace movement in Hiroshima; Expectations by the peace movement activists from the Japanese government to reduce accumulation of plutonium; Views of various elderly citizens.

Presents the history of dropping of atomic bomb on Nagasaki in Japan 50 years ago by the US forces.

Reports on the preparation of Japanese police to charge leaders of Aum Shinri Kyo sect suspected in the subway gas attack on May 20, 1995.

This article explains that even though Japan's fertility rate -- the number of children a woman has in her lifetime -- inched up in 2006, the effect of its overall declining population may be the country's most serious long-term economic issue. Japan has one of the fastest aging populations in the world. The population could be cut in half to 60 million by 2100 unless the government and society leaders can persuade citizens to have more children using new incentive programs.

The article reports on the accusation of North Korea against the nuclear disarmament agreement policy of the U.S. North Korea accused the U.S. for its double-dealing policy on nuclear agreement. It demanded that the U.S. its policy toward the. In addition, it claimed that the U.S. is preparing for nuclear war and intensifying its relations with Japan. The reason behind the failure of North Korea to act on its pledge to close the Yongbyon reactor is cited.

The article reports on the agreement between Japan, South Korea and the U.S. with regards to details of the Taepodong-2 missile explosion on July 4, 2006. South Korean defense officials acknowledged they had apparently erred in thinking the missile managed to stay aloft for seven minutes after the Japanese news agency Kyodo reported that Tokyo officials agreed with Washington's version that the missile exploded 40 seconds into flight after soaring only 1.5 kilometers.

The article reports on the plans of Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to propose a revision for detailed cooperation with the U.S. in case of a possible North Korean attack, hostilities in the Taiwan Strait or other emergencies in the region. Japan wants to draw up plans specifying which units would be deployed and goods to be transported, in addition to which roads, ports, airports and medical facilities would be used. Japan and the U.S. have pledged closer coordination in the development and deployment of ballistic missile defense systems and information sharing.