WASHINGTON (AP) — A crucial first vote on President Barack Obama's health care overhaul looms in the Senate. Democratic leaders are optimistic of success, but they need every Democrat and both independents to vote "yes," and two moderates remain uncommitted ahead of Saturday's vote.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans are trying to chip away support among women for the proposed health care overhaul. They're pointing to this week's recommendations for fewer Pap smears and mammograms, suggesting they will lead to health care rationing, a position disputed by Democrats.

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — A daylong protest at the University of California, Berkeley, is over. Dozens of demonstrators who'd barricaded themselves inside a campus building in a protest over fee hikes and budget cuts were removed late Friday.

BEIJING (AP) — Authorities say a gas explosion tore through a coal mine in northern China, killing 31 people and trapping 82 others nearly a third of a mile under ground. China Central Television says the explosion was caused by a gas buildup.

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean Buddhist monks head to North Korea today for a joint ceremony with monks there. The trip is meant to show the two countries are continuing a civil exchange despite a bloody naval skirmish earlier this month.