Students, Scientists Build Novel Biological Machines. Scientists in the growing field of synthetic biology use basic biological "building blocks" -- snippets of DNA -- to engineer useful living organisms. Tom Bearden reports on a synthetic biology competition for college students. By NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

Roland Burris Defends Appointment to Senate by Embattled Blagojevich. Embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's pick for Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat, Roland Burris, plans to take office next week despite objections from Senate leaders. Burris discusses the controversy surrounding his appointment with Ray Suarez. By NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

Even Insured Patients Struggle as Health Care Costs Rise. As health insurance premiums and deductibles rise, even patients who have insurance are struggling to keep up with escalating costs. Betty Ann Bowser reports on the plight of the underinsured in Nashville, Tenn. By NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

Obama Works on Stimulus Plan, Reportedly Picks Panetta for CIA Chief. President-elect Barack Obama met with party leaders on Capitol Hill Monday to discuss an economic stimulus package. Reports also emerged that he selected former White House chief of staff Leon Panetta to lead the CIA. Journalists discuss the latest news. By NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

Israeli Troops Backed by Airstrikes Move Deeper Into Gaza. Israeli forces continued their military campaign in the Gaza Strip Monday as international calls for a cease-fire intensified. Foreign policy analysts mull the latest developments in the fighting. By NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.