Optimistic mothers have boys, study says

Women who believe they are going to live for a long time are more likely to give birth to sons than less optimistic women, a new study suggests.

Animal rights groups fight US activist ban

Animal rights campaigners say they will resist any move by the home secretary, David Blunkett, to ban American activists from entering the UK.

Herpes may offer brain tumour cure

Fresh hope for sufferers as gene therapy trial wins go-ahead.

Tight rein on animal extremists planned

Wider impact of curbs on home protests and postal harassment alarms civil rights and lobby groups.

Saddle of Vespa all’Italiana

John Foot's taste buds are tickled by Matthew Fort's gastronomic Vespa trip, Eating Up Italy, but left unsatisfied by Carol Helstosky's Garlic and Oil, a history of Italian food that misses a few prime morsels.