UFO Researcher - 2000 vol 12 no 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of THE UFO RESEARCHER, Volume 12, Number 1, from 2000, published by Sky People Association-west Japan, is dedicated to exploring the intricate connections between crop circles, ancient symbols, and potential extraterrestrial or unknown intelligences. The cover features an illustration by Hirokazu Fujihira depicting a UFO hovering over a landscape with ancient structures and figures, hinting at the issue's themes.

Main Contents

The issue presents a diverse range of articles, including:

• UFOs in Art: An examination of UFO-like depictions in artworks by Piero della Francesca and Masolino.
• Ancient Symbols and Crop Circles: A report on the appearance of ancient symbols, such as the seven-branched candelabra and winged sun disk, in crop circles, along with on-site reports from crop circle locations and ancient megalithic sites in the UK.
• UFO Sightings: Reports of UFO sightings.
• Research Visit Records: A record of a visit to the Chinese UFO Research Society.
• Testimonies: Accounts from individuals who have experienced paranormal phenomena and testimonies from researchers.
• Travelogue: A report from a trip to Mexico-Teotihuacan, described as a place where the sun was born and people met gods.
• International Exchange: Information on UFO exchanges between Japan and China.
• Editor's Personal Notes: Reflections from the editor.
• Local Investigations: An account of climbing Mt. Kagura in Hiroshima Prefecture, known for its 'pyramid'.
• Global UFO News: Updates on UFO news from around the world.
• Crop Circle Investigations: A visit to a mystery circle in Yamaguchi City and an analysis of crop samples from a formation in Alton Barnes, UK.
• Specific Formation Analysis: A report on various crop formations observed in the UK between May and September 1999.

Article Deep Dive: '7 Branches of the Candelabra and Winged Sun Disk: Ancient Symbols Appearing in Crop Circles!'

This extensive article details the author's trip to England and Scotland from July 17-25, 1999, with the assistance of Mr. H. The journey focused on investigating crop circles and ancient ruins like Stonehenge and stone circles. The author recounts entering a crop circle and collecting a sample of bent wheat stalks. The article also mentions unusual film anomalies and light spots appearing in photographs taken at stone circles. The author notes the increasing complexity of crop circle designs, with some appearing as three-dimensional figures.

The article discusses the author's personal journey into crop circle research, starting with information received in 1991 about mystery circles in Japan. He recounts investigating a circle in Hyogo Prefecture in 1991, noting the unusual way the wheat stalks were bent without damage to the ground beneath.

The author reflects on the human reaction to these phenomena, categorizing it into two types: those who investigate and learn from the phenomena themselves, and those who try to replicate and explain them. He posits that crop circles, like UFO phenomena, are not random but serve a purpose, which can be understood by observing the reactions they elicit.

The decision to travel to the UK in 1999 was influenced by a 'car-shaped' mystery circle reported in a magazine, which the author recognized as resembling a Japanese car. This spurred him to contact his associate, Mr. H, for assistance.

The article also touches upon the potential 'power' of UFOs, citing biblical accounts of miracles involving control over gravity, biology, and elements like wind and water. It suggests that UFOs might interact with Earth's materials and natural forces.

Exploration of Ancient Sites and Symbols

The author delves into the symbolism found in ancient sites and crop circles, drawing parallels with ancient art and mythology. He discusses the 'cup and ring' markings found on megalithic sites and their various interpretations, including their potential representation of celestial bodies or energy patterns.

The article explores the concept of energy fields and their potential interaction with humans, citing experiences of dowsers and researchers who report feeling unusual sensations near megalithic stones. It also touches upon the idea of stone circles as energy accumulators or devices for interacting with cosmic forces.

Personal Research and Encounters

The author details his personal experiences during the trip, including observations of crop formations from a helicopter, interactions with researchers like Colin Andrews, and visits to various ancient sites. He describes the challenges of documenting these phenomena, including equipment malfunctions and the difficulty of obtaining clear samples.

He recounts a meeting with Colin Andrews, a renowned crop circle researcher, and discusses their conversations about the nature of crop circles, UFOs, and potential extraterrestrial intelligence. The author shares his own research methods, including photography, sample collection, and attempts at dowsing experiments.

Analysis of Crop Samples and Formations

Detailed descriptions are provided of the crop samples collected, focusing on the way the wheat stalks were bent or flattened. The author notes the presence of wrinkles and unusual bends in the stalks, suggesting an unknown force at play. He also discusses the challenges of preserving and analyzing these samples.

The article highlights the precision and complexity of crop circle designs, comparing them to ancient geometric patterns and astronomical observations. The author questions the purpose and origin of these formations, suggesting they might be a form of communication or a deliberate display by advanced intelligences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the interconnectedness of ancient mysteries, crop circles, and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, seeking to understand these phenomena through direct investigation, research, and the collection of evidence. There is a clear interest in exploring the possibility of non-human intelligence influencing or interacting with Earth through these manifestations. The author's personal journey and detailed accounts of his research underscore a commitment to uncovering the truth behind these enigmatic occurrences. The magazine promotes a view that these phenomena are not mere hoaxes but represent a deeper, possibly cosmic, intelligence at work.

This issue of "UFO目撃報告 UFO SIGHTING REPORTS" (Issue 3, dated 1999.9.28) focuses on witness testimonies and research into anomalous phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and ancient mysteries. The main headline, "異常現象の体験者そして研究者の証言" (Testimonies of Experiencers and Researchers of Anomalous Phenomena), sets the tone for the content.

Key Articles and Reports

UFO Sightings and Witness Testimonies

Several UFO sightings are detailed:

• Chiba City Sighting (August 9, 1999): A witness reported seeing a white, hazy, oval-shaped object moving at high speed from above, described as being similar to a torn cloud but maintaining its shape.
• Tenri Sightings (August 2-9, 1999): A series of sightings of rotating light phenomena are reported. The lights were described as ruby-colored and blue-white, or red and whitish, appearing bright and moving faster than an airplane. The witness, Chieko Tanishita, felt the existence of UFOs was not in doubt and wondered about the significance of her seeing one.
• Stonehenge Photographic Anomalies (July 18, 1999): A photographer visiting Stonehenge experienced unusual film issues where frames appeared blank or obscured, particularly when photographing the site. This led to speculation about a potential influence from Stonehenge itself.
• Silver Disc over Tokyo Bay (13 years prior to interview): Hisayo Ohno reported seeing a silver, disc-shaped object with a trapezoidal top while flying over Tokyo Bay. The object was close enough to be clearly visible and reflected sunlight before moving away.
• Zambian Sighting (11 years prior to interview): A witness described seeing an oval-shaped orange light moving slowly in the sky, larger than an artificial satellite and appearing to move slightly.
• Osaka/Takatsuki Sightings (August 6 & 8, 1999): Witnesses reported seeing red and blue circular objects moving together, described as smooth and fast.
• Fukushima Sound Phenomenon (6th grade): A witness reported hearing a loud, unusual sound, described as "Gwaaa," for an extended period.

Research and Ancient Mysteries

• Stonehenge and Ancient Sites: The issue features images of stone circles in the UK (Avebury, Stonehenge) and Scotland, comparing ancient carvings on stones to modern crop circle designs. The article on Stonehenge highlights the photographic anomalies experienced by a visitor.
• Taiwan UFO Research: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a visit to Taiwan by researcher Kozo Kawai. He met with UFO researchers like Cai Zhangxian, Liu Shaobao, and He Xianrong, visited the National Palace Museum, and attended a "Taiwan UFO Research Exhibition" at the Chung Cheng Aviation Science Museum. Discussions covered UFO classification, historical UFO records in China, and the current state of UFO research in Taiwan. The visit also included exploring caves near Keelung and learning about Taiwanese indigenous culture, with theories linking them to extraterrestrial origins.
• Earthquake Clouds: An interview with Minoru Kashima, chairman of the Japan Earthquake Cloud Research Association, discusses the concept of 'earthquake clouds' as potential precursors to earthquakes. He references historical accounts and his own research, including sightings of unusual atmospheric phenomena.
• Biblical and Ancient References: The magazine draws parallels between UFO sightings and ancient texts, such as the description of a lampstand in Exodus, and mentions ancient myths involving celestial visitors and structures.

Human Abilities and Anomalous Experiences

• Enhanced Sensory Abilities of Indigenous Peoples: In an interview, Hisayo Ohno describes the exceptional eyesight and hearing of people in African refugee camps, noting their ability to perceive things at great distances and identify sounds accurately.
• Poltergeist Experience: A witness recounts experiencing flickering lights in their new home during the night when they were in sixth grade.
• Lightning Experience: A witness describes a vivid experience of a lightning strike occurring very close by, accompanied by a bright yellow flash and a loud sound.

UFO Invention and Photography

• UFO Inventor: The magazine features an interview with a UFO inventor who claims to have built flying disc models powered by engines, showcasing photographs of his creations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena with ancient history, archaeology, and unexplained natural events. There's a strong emphasis on witness testimonies and the belief that UFOs represent extraterrestrial craft. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific explanations. The publication aims to document and share information on UFOs and related anomalies, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts.

This issue of "MEXICO Teotihuacan Chronicle" (MEXICO テオティワカン紀行) from October 1999, published in Japan, delves into the mysteries of the ancient city of Teotihuacan, drawing connections to ancient Egypt, UFO phenomena, and celestial alignments. The cover headline, "The place where the sun was born, heaven and earth met, and people became gods" (太陽が生まれ、天と地が出会い、人々が神になった場所), sets the tone for an exploration of ancient civilizations and their potential extraterrestrial connections.

Teotihuacan and Ancient Egypt: A Cosmic Connection

The author, Kumi Kambahara (神原二美), recounts her visit to the Giza pyramids in Egypt and the profound impact of their scale and mystery. She references the 'Orion Mystery' by Robert Bauval and Adrian Gilbert, which posits that the Giza pyramids' arrangement mirrors the three stars of Orion. This observation leads her to explore similar celestial connections in other ancient sites. Further research into "The Mayan Prophecy" by Gilbert and Maurice Cotterell, and "The Crystal Skull" by Chris Morton and Ceri Louise Thomas, reveals striking similarities between the Teotihuacan pyramids and those of Giza. The article highlights that the dimensions and positioning of Teotihuacan's Sun Pyramid and Moon Pyramid align with Giza's pyramids, suggesting a common architectural blueprint or purpose.

Mathematical and Astronomical Clues

The article discusses the mathematical 'secrets' within the Teotihuacan pyramids, similar to those attributed to the Great Pyramid of Giza, particularly the use of Pi in their construction. It suggests that ancient Teotihuacanos might have possessed knowledge of Earth's spherical nature thousands of years before Europeans. The phenomenon of a precise shadow disappearing for 66.6 seconds at noon on the equinoxes at the Sun Pyramid is also mentioned, indicating advanced astronomical observation skills.

Cultural Parallels and Ancient Beliefs

The author draws parallels between ancient mythologies, citing the 'feathered serpent' (Quetzalcoatl in Mesoamerica, Kukulcan in Maya) as a recurring symbol across cultures, including Sumerian and Egyptian deities. This symbol is linked to beings who imparted knowledge and civilization to early humans, potentially including the builders of pyramids and ziggurats. A quote from the Book of Amos (5-8) is used to suggest that these ancient 'Lords' may have been advanced beings, possibly extraterrestrial.

Travelogue: Mexico City and Teotihuacan

The narrative shifts to the author's personal journey to Mexico City. She details her concerns about safety due to recent incidents and her choice of a reputable hotel. The itinerary includes visits to the National Museum of Anthropology, the Guadalupe Shrine, and the Teotihuacan site. The author notes the prevalence of UFO sightings in Mexico, referencing a famous video from 1997 and a more recent incident in Monterrey.

National Museum of Anthropology

A visit to the National Museum of Anthropology is described as an overwhelming experience, showcasing vast collections of artifacts from various Mesoamerican cultures. The author expresses disappointment that the 'Sun Stone' (Aztec Calendar) was under renovation.

Guadalupe Shrine

The Guadalupe Shrine is presented as a significant national symbol of Mexico. The article recounts the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe's appearance to Juan Diego in 1531, emphasizing the image's unique dark complexion and black hair, and the miraculous nature of the image on Diego's cloak. The shrine's history is linked to the Aztec goddess Tonantzin.

Teotihuacan Site Exploration

The author's exploration of Teotihuacan includes visits to the Citadel (La Ciudadela), the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the Moon Pyramid, and the Sun Pyramid. She describes the 'echo effect' at the Citadel's staircase and the imposing scale of the pyramids. The climb up the Moon Pyramid is described as challenging due to its steepness and altitude, leading to breathlessness and sleeplessness, which she attributes to a mild form of altitude sickness and possibly the site's energetic influence.

Astronomical Alignments and 'The Road of the Dead'

The article delves deeper into the astronomical significance of Teotihuacan. It discusses the alignment of the 'Road of the Dead' and the pyramids with celestial bodies, particularly the Pleiades. The author references Zecharia Sitchin's theories about ancient astronomical markers and the possibility of a connection to the 'fifth sun' in Mayan cosmology. The orientation of the 'Road of the Dead' being slightly off true north is explained as a deliberate 'sacred orientation' linked to astronomical events.

Mayan Prophecy and Time Cycles

The 'Mayan Prophecy' is discussed, highlighting its precise dating of future events, contrasting with other prophecies. The concept of four previous 'suns' or epochs ending and the current fifth sun's cycle, predicted to end around December 2012, is mentioned. The author reflects on the potential for renewal and transformation, even in the face of predicted cataclysms, linking it to the dawning of the Age of Aquarius.

UFO Conference in Taiyuan, China

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to reporting on the "Taiyuan 1998 UFO Academic Conference" held in China. The article details the event, attended by 56 researchers from across China and Taiwan, who presented 37 papers. The topics covered included UFO dynamics, analysis of sightings, theories on spacetime, cosmic origins, life sciences, and organizational structures for UFO research. The report lists the titles of many of the papers presented, indicating a broad interest in UFO phenomena within China.

UFO Research and Funding

The challenges of funding UFO research are discussed, with examples from China. The article mentions a researcher in Henan province who established an economic entity to support UFO research. It also highlights the publication of UFO-related materials and the efforts of Chinese researchers to explore various scientific and philosophical mysteries, not limited to UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations, astronomy, and potential extraterrestrial influence. The magazine promotes the idea that ancient sites like Teotihuacan and Giza hold cosmic secrets and that UFOs may be part of a larger, ancient narrative. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these mysteries, encouraging readers to consider unconventional theories and to explore the scientific and historical evidence presented. The magazine also emphasizes the importance of international exchange in UFO research, as evidenced by the report on the Taiyuan conference.

Title: AFU Newsletter
Issue: No. 37
Date: January 1992 - December 1993
Publisher: Archives for UFO Research (AFU)
Country: Sweden
Original Language: English

This issue of the AFU Newsletter, published by the Archives for UFO Research, delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, featuring a mix of international news, research reports, personal accounts, and discussions on related phenomena. The publication aims to provide a platform for UFO enthusiasts and researchers to share information and insights.

Key Articles and Features

1. 'UFO Abduction Incident Truth' (Page 2-3)
This section reviews a book discussing UFO abductions, particularly the case of Linda Kotel. The author notes the surprising detail of multiple witnesses, including bodyguards and a politician, observing the event. The article also touches upon the psychological aspects of abduction experiences, comparing them to ancient phenomena like 'night terrors' and 'fairy abductions.' It raises questions about the nature of consciousness and the possibility of non-physical entities interacting with humans.

2. 'US Television Programs' (Page 2)
Brief mentions of US television programs discussing UFOs, including 'Alien Week' and a report on a fire lookout's logbook recording sightings of fireballs. It also references a segment on British supermarket surveillance cameras capturing a luminous object.

3. 'End of the Century Chaos: Various Topics' (Page 2-3)
This article reflects on the turn of the millennium, touching upon prophecies of world-ending events and their relation to UFO phenomena. It notes how the focus on 'end times' might have overshadowed UFO discussions, but highlights a recent program on Chinese UFO information. The piece also links natural disasters, such as the Turkey earthquake, to celestial events and UFO sightings, citing research suggesting a correlation between UFO appearances and seismic activity.

4. 'Japanese UFO Researcher Tian Gongqing' (Page 4-6, 8-9)
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Tian Gongqing, a Japanese UFO researcher and employee of Koyasan Sangyo Co., Ltd. The article details his 37-year journey into UFO research, his family's involvement, and his publications like 'The UFO Researcher.' It covers his personal UFO sightings, including a triangular object observed from a train, and his research into ancient sites like Ashiyokuyama. His efforts to document and analyze UFO phenomena, including photographic and video evidence, are highlighted. The section also includes his interactions with other researchers and his participation in UFO forums.

5. 'Ashiyokuyama Pyramid in Shojihara City, Hiroshima' (Page 7-9)
This detailed report follows Tian Gongqing's trip to Ashiyokuyama, a mountain considered by some to be a 'Japanese Pyramid.' The article describes his journey, the geological features of the mountain, and the ancient stone structures found there, such as 'Sun Stone,' 'Direction Stone,' and 'Mirror Rock.' It discusses theories connecting these sites to ancient civilizations and possible extraterrestrial influences, referencing historical accounts and the work of researchers like Sakai Katsutoki.

• 6. 'UFO World News' (Page 10)
• This section provides brief news updates from around the globe:
• South Korea: Reports of UFO sightings and footage, including a phenomenon observed over Taebaek-san that split into multiple objects.
• Mexico: A live UFO sighting captured during a TV news broadcast, showing a disk-shaped object that changed shape and reflected sunlight.
• Israel: Sightings of triangular UFOs, with detailed descriptions of their appearance and behavior, linked to theories about 'giants' returning to Earth.
• Northern Ireland: Reports of UFOs appearing after an eclipse, with some sightings involving triangular craft accompanied by military aircraft.
• Turkey: Observations of mysterious lights and triangular UFOs following a major earthquake, with speculation about a connection to seismic activity and unusual ocean phenomena.
• Australia: A report of a triangular UFO sighted over Sydney.
• United States: A sighting of a triangular UFO in Washington that caused a power outage.

7. 'Domestic UFO Researcher's Research Report' (Page 10)
This part introduces Shinobu Morita's book, 'The Possibility of Extraterrestrial Hypothesis - A New UFO Research Paradigm Based on the Lakenheath Incident Analysis.' The article discusses the Lakenheath incident, involving high-speed unidentified objects detected by radar, and critiques the official conclusion that no scientific knowledge was gained from UFO research.

8. 'Mandara-ke Satellite Broadcast 'Deep Zone'' (Page 5, 7)
This feature details a UFO forum organized by the Osaka UFO Circle (OUC) celebrating its 10th anniversary. It mentions the participation of researchers and attendees, discussions on topics like the year 2000 problem and out-of-place artifacts, and the presentation of scientific analysis of tektite rocks. It also notes the appearance of mysterious small objects during a broadcast featuring the OUC chairman and the president of Mandara-ke.

9. 'Mysterious Luminous Phenomenon During the Great Hanshin Earthquake!' (Page 3)
A personal account of witnessing a strange luminous phenomenon during the Great Hanshin Earthquake, described as a powerful upward thrust followed by a fall, and a bright orange light seen towards Awaji Island.

10. 'UFOs and the End of the World' (Page 6)
This article discusses the cultural fascination with prophecies of the end of the world and its potential connection to UFO phenomena, noting the self-imposed 'end of the world' theme for the year 1999.

11. 'Swedish Security Police Investigate "Cigar" Sighting' (Page 5)
A brief mention of a report from the Swedish AFU newsletter about security police investigating a 'cigar-shaped' UFO sighting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of AFU Newsletter include the persistent mystery of UFO sightings worldwide, the challenges and dedication of UFO researchers, the potential connection between UFO phenomena and ancient sites or civilizations, and the ongoing debate about the nature and origin of these unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider evidence critically and to maintain an open mind towards the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence and advanced technologies.

The magazine emphasizes the importance of rigorous research, documentation, and the sharing of information within the UFO community. It also touches upon broader societal issues, such as the public's perception of unexplained phenomena and the limitations of current scientific understanding in addressing them. The publication seems to advocate for a scientific yet open-minded approach to UFOlogy, encouraging further investigation and exploration of the unknown.

Title: THE UFO RESEARCHER
Issue: Vol. 12, No. 1
Date: October 19, 1999
Publisher: Kiyoshi Amamiya
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese

This issue of THE UFO RESEARCHER focuses on a mystery circle that appeared in a fallow field in Yamaguchi City, Japan. The cover headline, "Visiting the Mystery Circle in Yamaguchi City," highlights the main investigative piece. The magazine also includes reports on UFO sightings and a detailed look at crop formations in the UK.

Yamaguchi Mystery Circle Investigation

The main article details an on-site investigation of a mystery circle in Yamaguchi City, which appeared in a fallow field in May 1999. The unique aspect of this circle was that the grass, instead of withering, remained bent and green for several months, surviving even typhoons. The discovery was made public in October, leading to media attention.

The author's daughter, Tamamiya Shima, undertook the investigation on November 11, 1999. She was equipped with recording equipment and a detailed set of instructions for her research. Her mission included photographing the circle, interviewing the landowner (Yasuko Tanaka) and the first discoverer (Keisuke Tanaka), and collecting soil and plant samples for analysis. She was also tasked with explaining her father's research into UFOs and mystery circles.

During her visit, Shima met with local mystery circle researcher Shuko Murakami, who had been instrumental in preserving the site by setting up signs and displays. Murakami provided Shima with valuable research materials, including aerial photographs of mystery circles in Kyushu and newspaper clippings, which are considered important for Japanese mystery circle research.

Shima also managed to interview UFO witnesses. Yasuko Tanaka, an 87-year-old woman, reported seeing a red, dome-shaped UFO in May or June 1999 around 3-4 PM. Another witness, a couple named Kameo, reported seeing a red UFO flying from the sea towards the mystery circle's direction on November 9, 1999, at around 6 PM, noting it was faster than an airplane.

The investigation also involved interviewing reporters from Nikkan Sports and Nishinippon Shimbun. Shima was treated to a meal by the Tanaka family and was given a ride back to the train station by a Nishinippon Shimbun reporter, highlighting the local hospitality.

Scientific Analysis of Crop Samples

A separate section details the elemental analysis of wheat samples collected from mystery circles in Alton Barnes, Wiltshire, UK. The samples, taken from both bent and standing wheat stalks, were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence. The analysis, conducted by T.M. with the cooperation of the magazine's readers, revealed the presence of elements such as silicon, potassium, chlorine, calcium, sulfur, iron, and zinc. While the general elemental composition was similar between the samples, slight variations were noted, though it was inconclusive whether these differences were due to external influences or the mystery circle phenomenon itself.

UFO Sightings and Other Phenomena

The issue includes additional reports of UFO sightings. Chizuko Sakakibara reported seeing a "persimmon-colored" UFO on the morning of November 14, 1999, near the Tenri City observation post. The UFO was described as dome-shaped and hovered for about five minutes before disappearing.

There is also a brief mention of the Leonid meteor shower on November 18, 1999. While the author and his wife were unable to observe it due to cloudy skies, a colleague reported seeing a meteor brighter than stars.

Crop Formations in the UK

The magazine features a visual compilation of various crop formations that appeared in the UK between May and September 1999. These illustrations showcase a wide range of complex geometric patterns and designs, demonstrating the diversity and evolution of crop circles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of THE UFO RESEARCHER strongly emphasizes the investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly mystery circles and UFO sightings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging scientific analysis and detailed reporting of witness accounts. The magazine actively seeks to connect these phenomena with potential extraterrestrial or unknown origins, as suggested by the analysis of soil and plant samples and the detailed documentation of UFO reports. There is a clear interest in the preservation of evidence and the sharing of information, as seen in the efforts to document the Yamaguchi mystery circle and the provision of research materials to the author's daughter. The magazine also highlights the work of researchers and organizations dedicated to these subjects, both in Japan and internationally.