The mapped human genome begins to reveal its secrets. (p. 100)

Researchers have developed a composite material that has the ability to repair small cracks within itself, a characteristic that could be used to extend the reliability and service life of electronic and aerospace components. (p. 101)

A tiny discrepancy from theory in a newly remeasured magnetic trait of a subatomic particle, the muon, may represent a first crack in the 30-year-old prevailing standard model of particle physics. (p. 102)

Triclosan--a drug used as an antimicrobial agent in toothpaste, deodorant, and other products--kills rodent malaria parasites in mice and human malaria parasites in test-tube studies. (p. 102)

Maize cultivation existed in southern Mexico at least 6,300 years ago, according to a recent radiocarbon analysis of two maize cobs unearthed in a cave nearly 40 years ago. (p. 103)

On Feb. 12, NEAR Shoemaker became the first spacecraft to land on an asteroid, the space rock 433 Eros. (p. 103)

Scientists confront the hazy realm of spiritual enlightenment. (p. 104)

Materials scientists have turned the tools of their trade on some of the most familiar substances in the world: food. (p. 108)

Healthy, older women may be protected against losses of verbal memory that typically occur with age if they receive hormone-replacement therapy. (p. 110)

Taiwanese people who donate organs from a deceased family member still support that decision 6 months later, despite frequently experiencing negative consequences related to their culture and religion. (p. 110)

Researchers have stumbled upon the first all-metal, aromatic molecules. (p. 111)

A new technique shows a link between water's unusual physical properties and its abnormal molecular structure. (p. 111)

Prolonged consumption of foods that break down quickly into simple sugars appears to foster obesity and vulnerability to diabetes, an animal study shows. (p. 111)

Using soap chemistry, scientists prevented some of chocolate's saturated fat--and calories--from being absorbed. (p. 111)