Bits of Mystery DNA, Far From ‘Junk,’ Play Crucial Role

By GINA KOLATA

At least four million gene switches that reside in sections of the human genome once thought to be inactive turn out to have critical functions in the body, researchers reported.

U.S. to Retain Role as a Jailer in Afghanistan

By CHARLIE SAVAGE and GRAHAM BOWLEY

The United States military will continue indefinitely to operate a section of the Parwan complex holding foreign combatants, even as the two countries mark a transfer of authority.

Clinton Delivers Stirring Plea for Obama Second Term

By JEFF ZELENY and MARK LANDLER

Former President Bill Clinton and President Obama hugged onstage Wednesday night after Mr. Clinton delivered an impassioned plea on behalf of Mr. Obama’s re-election.

• Interactive Feature: Anatomy of a Speech: Bill Clinton

Man in the News | Barack Hussein Obama

4 Years Later, Scarred but Still Confident

By PETER BAKER

President Obama is making the case that while progress is slow, he is taking America to a better place — and that he will be a better president over the next four years than the last.

For Farms in the West, Oil Wells Are Thirsty Rivals

By JACK HEALY

A race for water is rippling through the drought-scorched heartland, pitting farmers against oil and gas interests that use the water-intensive hydraulic fracturing process.

New Wrinkle in Men’s Wear: Shops Just for Men

By ERIC WILSON

A number of clothing retailers have opened stores in recent months that cater solely to their male customers, with specialized environments and customer service.