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AIREC, an AI-driven humanoid robot, demonstrates its potential as a future caregiver for Japan's rapidly aging population, offering assistance with tasks like changing diapers and preventing bedsores. However, challenges remain in terms of cost, safety, and the need for human-robot collaboration in providing comprehensive care.

Land prices in Hokkaido, particularly in areas popular with foreign tourists, have seen significant increases in recent years, driven by the growing demand for vacation homes and hotels from overseas visitors. This surge has led to a shortage of housing for workers in popular tourist destinations like Kutchan, prompting companies like Tokyu Fudosan Holdings to construct dormitories for corporate clients.

Haneda Airport is testing a touchless fingerprint authentication system for international travelers, aiming to streamline entry procedures and enhance security. This innovative technology utilizes a camera to capture fingertip images, eliminating the need for physical contact with a sensor and improving accuracy through deformation prediction.

Opposition leader Yuichiro Tamaki sparked controversy by suggesting that foreigners in Japan should not be eligible for certain healthcare benefits, arguing that Japanese taxpayers should not be responsible for their medical expenses. However, critics argue that his proposal is discriminatory and statistically insignificant, as foreigners account for a small fraction of expenditures under the High-Cost Medical Expense Benefit system.

Japan Airlines has become the first airline to operate an aircraft with a riblet-shaped paint coating inspired by shark skin, aiming to reduce air resistance and carbon emissions. This innovative technology, developed in collaboration with JAXA and O-Well Corp., has the potential to significantly improve the environmental sustainability of the aviation industry.