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Jang Song Thaek, who was North Korea's second-most powerful official, was put to death this week.

Was North Korea's No. 2 Killed For Not Clapping Hard Enough?

One reason North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had his uncle executed, some analysts say, is that he felt disrespected. The uncle, Jang Song Thaek, allegedly failed to applaud with enough enthusiasm when Kim was given a key post. It's also thought that Kim wanted to send a message: Don't mess with me.

Going The Distance: Mileage Running On Marathon Flights

Imagine flying around the world in a span of days for the sole purpose of earning frequent flyer miles. That's the idea behind mileage runs.

Women walk along on the street in Kabul, Afghanistan, last week. The country faces many changes next year, including a presidential election and the withdrawal of U.S. combat forces. There are also concerns that advances made by women over the past decade could be in jeopardy.

Facing Big Changes, Anxious Afghans Hope For The Best In 2014

The Afghans will elect a new president, and the U.S. combat mission will end. There are worries about a resurgent Taliban, the fragile economy and the future of women's rights. In short, Afghans are concerned about most everything.

Cameron (left) and Tyler Winklevoss testified Wednesday at a hearing about virtual currencies held by the New York Department of Financial Services.

New York Looks To Bring Bitcoin Out Of The Shadows

Bitcoin has been tied to the dark side of the Internet, where it's been linked to drug trafficking. But New York's financial regulators say they want to foster innovation and are looking to legitimize the virtual currency by licensing it.

It's great that he's going for the last piece of pasta. Or is it?

Babies Who Eat Too Well May Be On The Path To Obesity

Do pushy parents make a baby fatter, or is it all in the genes? That's one of the big puzzles that scientists are trying to answer. Two studies suggest that an individual's interest in food is a big factor, even in babies. A genetic predisposition may be involved.

Uncertainty Reigns At Start Of Iran Nuclear Talks

Talks in Vienna about Iran's nuclear program kick off what could be a year of negotiations. Negotiators are seeking a deal to follow the temporary agreement now limiting Iran's nuclear program.

Hannah Rood, 3, receives an H1N1 vaccine at a clinic in San Pablo, California, during the 2009 swine flu epidemic.

Stopping Microbes Not Missiles: U.S. Plans For Next Global Threat

The world is at greater risk than ever from pandemics and biological weapons, health officials said Thursday. In response, the U.S. government is spearheading a global effort to build an early warning system for infectious diseases, drug-resistant microbes and possible bioterror agents.

From President To Fugitive — In The Span Of A Week

The new authorities in Kiev are trying to consolidate power and capture former President Viktor Yanukovych. Meanwhile, demonstrators in parts of eastern Ukraine are supporting closer ties with Moscow.

Shirley Temple Black Dies At 85

One of the most famous childhood stars of all times, Shirley Temple Black has died. Remembered for her curls and acting talent, she became the face of hope during the Great Depression.

U.S. silver medalists Elana Meyers, left, and Lauryn Williams pose after their final run in the women's bobsled Wednesday. Williams becomes only the second American in history to win medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympics.

Williams Is Second American To Win Winter And Summer Olympic Medals

One year ago, Lauryn Williams had never tried bobsled racing at all; she was only elevated to the elite U.S. women's team 11 days ago. Wednesday, she made Olympic history.

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