NEWS OF THE WEEK
			SCREENING SCIENCE Journal editors agree to consider security issues in reviewing manuscripts.
			IRON INTERMEDIATES Researchers isolate key players in biological oxidation of O2.
			BIOTECH BUY Johnson & Johnson to acquire biotech player Scios.
			ROCHE REFOCUSES Firm sheds vitamins and fine chemicals, acquires insulin pump manufacturer.
			SHUTTLE ACCIDENT Congressional hearing focuses on investigation, space policy issues.
			GREENHOUSE GASES Energy Department announces voluntary program to reduce emissions.
			NANOSCALE FLASKS Supramolecular assemblies have structural memory.
			CONDUCTING POLYMERS New procedure boosts plastics' electronic abilities.
			DOW CHEMICAL BOARD Keith McKennon replaces Michael Parker as director.

COVER STORY
			CUSTOM CHEMICALS Although observers predict another tough year for pharmaceutical custom manufacturing and synthesis, suppliers have multiple avenues for growth.

BUSINESS
			BUSINESS CONCENTRATES
			EUROPEAN 2002 FINANCIAL WRAP-UP Performance of chemical firms shows modest improvement over 2001.
			BETTING ON GLUCOSAMINE U.S. firms are hoping new technology gives them the edge over low-cost Chinese suppliers.

GOVERNMENT & POLICY
			GOVERNMENT CONCENTRATES
			FEDERAL R&D Proposed fiscal 2004 budget gives top billing to defense and security.
			INSIGHTS EPA has never come to a clear conclusion about toxicity of agent orange.

SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY
			SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY CONCENTRATES
			PROTEIN DEAMIDATION Researchers pin down this modification's physiological role as a regulatory signal.
			JACS AT 125 Pearson's hard and soft acid and base concept provides qualitative basis for predicting chemical reactivity.

ACS COMMENT
			CHEMISTRY IN EVIDENCE-BASED HEALTH CARE

EMPLOYMENT
			MID-ATLANTIC BIOTECH States attract industry by offering start-up help, including tax credits, lab space, and investment money.

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