Polls won't change Abe's China policy

Faced with a tanking economy and plummeting ratings, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe dissolved the House of Representatives last week and called snap polls next month in an attempt to revive his faltering leadership.

Odds against public heating in South

For people in North and South China, mid-November generates different feelings. Northerners heave a sigh of relief as they welcome central heating that will guarantee cozy indoors for four months even if the temperature outside dips well below freezing point, while southerners brace themselves for the long and unbearable winter ahead.

Hot Words

The term refers to corruption among grassroots officials, some of whom have been exposed by the ongoing anti-graft drive to be involved in huge illegal rackets.

Misdeed of a hotheaded student

A student threw hot water on a teacher at East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai recently when he criticized her for missing a class, reflecting the rampant lack of reason in society, says an article in Procuratorial Daily. Excerpts:

Running to embrace nature

Running is becoming increasingly popular in cities because it is a good way of keeping fit. More importantly, it signifies a society's awakening against the slavery imposed by the modern way of life, complete with the Internet, mobile phones, iPads and apps which make people lazy, says an article in Xinhua Daily Telegraph. Excerpts:

FIFA set to revive corruption inquiry

FIFA will further review the 2018 and 2022 World Cup corruption investigation, putting the status of hosts Russia and Qatar back in question.

Sixers flirt with historic futility

Television talk show host Ellen DeGeneres used her monologue on Wednesday to speak right to the heart of Philadelphia 76ers fans.

Forsberg humbled by Hall induction

Peter Forsberg spent his playing days thinking about winning, not about the Hall of Fame.

IN BRIEF (Page 8)

Score Board

Wilshere's resurgence earns high praise from Hodgson

Starry midfielder's return from injury gives England manager more options

Limping United facing tough task against Gunners

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will delve into the depths of his squad for its visit to Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday, as an injury crisis engulfs Old Trafford.