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Japan's Lower House has approved the revised initial fiscal 2025 budget, marking rare concessions to opposition demands like enabling free high school education. Prime Minister Ishiba's minority government secures a vital legislative victory but still faces contentious debates regarding political fund scandals and surname registration laws.

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered that luteolin, a natural compound found in celery, broccoli, and other plants, may inhibit the graying of black hair. Their findings suggest that luteolin could potentially be used to develop topical agents and oral supplements to prevent or delay graying.

Japan's government approved a bill to turn the Science Council of Japan (SCJ) into a special corporation with increased governmental oversight, provoking concerns about academic independence. The legislation emerged from a 2020 controversy involving the unexplained rejection of six recommended scholars by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba praised U.S. President Donald Trump during their first face-to-face meeting at the White House, calling him "one chosen by God." The two leaders also agreed to cooperate on increasing Japanese investment in the United States and expanding defense cooperation to deal with China's growing military assertiveness in the Pacific region.

iR Fresh, a technology developed by the Shikoku Research Institute in Japan, utilizes near-infrared light to preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables, extending shelf life, reducing spoilage, and minimizing the need for pesticides. This innovative technology holds promise for revolutionizing the food industry by promoting sustainability and reducing food waste.