The massive tsunamis caused by the earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia have taken their toll, taking a great many lives and leaving millions homeless in more than ten countries. 2004 seemed to have been a year of calamities. Japan was hit with several typhoons, floods and earthquakes. Such phenomena also occurred in many other places around the globe. Let's hope that 2005 will be a safer and better year for all.

This February issue contains many interesting features to read. The Special Feature on denim is a must for those who want to know the latest denim situation in Japan. There is a Special Feature on stretch fibers, a sector where the world's leading producers are attaching importance to new developments, and functional textiles and processings are also a major feature in this issue.

The Editor