Ann-Marie Pendrill, University of Gothenburg Swedish mathematicians have published new designs for what can eaily be the smoothest roller coaster ride. WASHINGTON (ISNS) — At the age of 74, retired roller coaster designer Werner Stengel still spends his days riding the latest loop-de-loops. “Trying... 

Looking ahead: year 6 pupils from St Saviour’s school in Westgate-on-Sea, Kent, who are soon to ‘move up’ to secondary school. Photograph: Teri Pengilley Going to “big school” is a daunting prospect for all 11-year-olds. But for children in the 36 areas that still have selective... 

Sir Richard Branson is in talks with private equity firms over sale of Virgin Active the health and fitness chain. Photograph: Peter Schneider/EPA Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Active is in early discussions with a handful of private equity groups over a possible £1bn sale of the health... 

General Sir Peter Wall – pictured with Tony Blair in 2003 – is to be the new head of the British army. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PA The new head of the army, who will take up the post at a crucial time for the service, is to be General Sir Peter Wall, an experienced, straight-talking,... 

AP British scientists believe they have found the answer to an ages-old question: Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Scientists cracked the puzzle after discovering that the formation of eggs is possible only thanks to a protein found in chicken’s ovaries. That means eggs have to be formed in... 

David Davis reportedly repeated alleged remarks by Lord Ashcroft describing the Tory-Lib Dem government as a ‘Brokeback Coalition’, in reference to the gay-themed cowboy film. Photograph: Graeme Robertson Unease on the Tory right over David Cameron’s coalition with the Liberal...