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New tests confirm that Ludwig van Beethoven suffered from lead poisoning. The legendary composer, who experienced decades of illness that left him in misery for most of his life, died in 1827. Researchers aren't sure why his lead levels were so high, but they have some ideas.

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says during a visit to the Ukraine that U.N. rules against torture apply to U.S. personnel worldwide. U.S. policy previously interpreted the international convention as only applying to activities in U.S. territory.

Attorneys for death row inmate Stanley Tookie Williams meet Thursday with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. They will argue for clemency for the Crips' co-founder and for commuting his sentence to life in prison without parole. Williams is scheduled to die by lethal injection on Dec. 13.

Former air marshal instructor Jamie Smith says Wednesday's shooting at Miami International Airport is a "textbook case." Marshals have only seconds to stop a potential bomber, and Smith says in the Miami incident, the marshals had to shoot the passenger once he reached into his bag.

If you're looking for unusual gift ideas, New York Times technology columnist David Pogue has picked out some off-beat gadgets, both practical and prankish.

During the 1960s, many baby boomers spurned convention and the obligations that hemmed in their parents. But as the first baby boomers start turning 60 in January, a new study finds that many find themselves with lingering responsibilities to both their parents and children.

Commentator Michael O'Hanlon, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, says the military has a legitimate role when a massive disaster hits American soil. He argues for another exemption to the 130-year-old law that prevents U.S. troops from being used to enforce domestic law.

TV chef Mario Batali is known for the creative Italian fare he serves at his popular New York restaurants, including Babbo. But his latest cookbook, Molto Italiano, gets back to the basics.

NPR's Puzzlemaster Will Shortz quizzes one of our listeners, and has a challenge for everyone at home. This week's winner is Steve Wersan from Ridgecrest, California. He listens to Weekend Edition on member station KNPR in Las Vegas.

The earthquake that ripped through South Asia more than a week ago devastated the Pakistani population. Among the most vulnerable and needy survivors are thousands of traumatized children.