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U.S. forces take into custody one of Iraq's top biological weapons experts, nicknamed "Dr. Germ" for her work in the production of biological warfare agents such as anthrax and botulinum toxin. Rihab Taha, a British-educated microbiologist, was not on the U.S. list of 55 most-wanted Iraqis, but U.S. officials say her capture was still a top priority. Hear NPR's Tom Gjelten.

One-third of the Texas blues-rock mainstay ZZ Top has died. Dusty Hill, the band's bassist and one of its vocalists, was 72 years old, and according to his bandmates died at his home in Houston.

Deadlines to apply for colleges are coming up - and some experts say a lot of qualified minority students won't be applying to the top schools. Host Michel Martin speaks with Donald Fraser, Jr., of CollegeSnapps, Inc. and Caroline Hoxby, an economist at Stanford University about why some students of color aren't trying to get into prestigious schools.

Army Surgeon General Kevin Kiley has abruptly stepped down, requesting retirement. He is the third top Army official to depart amid fallout over the way wounded soldiers were treated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Music affords an escape, takes us back in time to reflect on the present, mirrors our aches and joys and offers serenity. These albums were gifts during difficult times.

Pentagon officials confirm that Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, the top U.S. military commander in Iraq, will give up his command this summer. But officials deny the move is linked to allegations that Sanchez knew about abuses at the Abu Ghraib prison. Gen. George W. Casey Jr., the Army's second-ranking general, will replace Sanchez. Hear NPR's Steve Inskeep and NPR's Michele Kelemen.

From solo acoustic sketches to orchestral arrangements, the year had great roots music for everyone.

On this week's show: Chris Rock's Top Five, mix tapes and loved music, and what's making us happy this week.

Since 2008, Bella has been the city's most popular dog name. That's when the last of Stephenie Meyer's vampire-themed Twilight novels featuring heroine Bella Swan was published.

Also: Nelson Mandela remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition; Apple has some announcements to make; and was the Tony Awards' opening the best ever?