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The Bush administration reports the pace of the U.S. economic recovery slowed in the second fiscal quarter, to an annual rate of 3 percent. That's down from a revised 4.5 percent growth rate in the first three months of the fiscal year. In a separate statement, the Bush administration said the federal deficit will grow to a record $445 billion. NPR's John Ydstie reports.

New York's Central Park was the scene of demonstrations Sunday as activists protested Republican policies in advance of the party's national convention, which begins Monday. Organizers of a march called "Billionaires for Bush" are among the groups hoping to confront party supporters when the sessions begin. Hear NPR's Jennifer Ludden, NPR's Margot Adler and NPR's Nancy Solomon.

Recent studies have shown that treating heart attack patients with high doses of cholesterol-lowering drugs significantly lowered their risk another heart attack. But a new study of the drug Zocor failed to find the same benefits, raising questions about whether all statin drugs are equally effective. NPR's Richard Knox reports.

Rep. Richard Gephardt and former Gov. Howard Dean speak at the Democratic Convention, in a show of unity from two of Sen. John Kerry's former rivals. Kerry will be named the Democratic presidential nominee Wednesday. Hear NPR's David Welna.

Iraq's interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi visited Najaf Sunday, calling for Shiite insurgents to abandon their positions. Allawi's call for the fighters to lay down their weapons came as violence continued between Iraqi security forces and militia loyal to Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. Hear NPR Liane Hansen and NPR's Ivan Watson.

A new study finds an intriguing reason why boys born prematurely are at a greater risk for developmental and cognitive problems than girls. Premature boys, by age 8, have less white matter -- the material that allows different parts of the brain to communicate with each other. NPR's Michelle Trudeau reports.

As peace talks wind down, U.S. Marines are preparing to launch an offensive if Iraq's interim leader gives the order. Military commanders say they have little doubt the order will come soon. Interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi has vowed to clear the city of militants. Hear NPR's Anne Garrels.

Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat remains in critical condition at a hospital outside Paris, said to be in a coma. There have been few officials statements about the 75-year-old Arafat's health since he was sent to the military hospital for treatment eight days ago. Hear reporter Eleanor Beardsley.

Some U.S. utility companies manipulate lead tests for drinking water, according to The Washington Post. Analyzing 65 water systems, the paper found that high lead levels were concealed from regulators. Hear NPR's Melissa Block and Post reporter Carol Leonnig.

Campaigning in the upper Midwest, President Bush and Sen. John Kerry trade hard shots over Iraq. The president once again says Iraq is part of a greater fight against terrorism. Kerry argues the president's rush to war distracted from the pursuit of terrorists behind the Sept. 11 attacks. Hear NPR's Don Gonyea.