Yes, if you're a .NET programmer then you can use the ReportDocument object model to modify the report properties prior to running a report. Thus, you can format the report header to be bold, change which data fields get printed, etc.
The mistake that most people run into is that they want to use .NET to modify the report with WHILE IT IS RUNNING. This can't be done. The object model is ONLY accessible prior to report generation. Once the report starts to run, it's hands off. That is why .NET programmers still need to learn how to use Crystal syntax with conditional formatting because that is the only way to modify a report while it's being processed.
If your using Crystal Reports .NET 2003, you can get my book
Crystal Reports .NET Programming for detailed explanations of .NET customization. If you're using CR.NET 2005, then starting next month I'm creating a new section of the website where premier members can get access to my .NET 2005 chapters as I write them and also make requests for what they want me to write about. It should be pretty cool!