Coupling between cold dark matter and dark energy from neutrino mass experiments

We consider cosmological models with dynamical dark energy (dDE) coupled to cold dark matter (CDM), while simultaneously allowing neutrinos to be massive. Using a MCMC approach, we compare these models with a wide range of cosmological data sets. We find a strong correlation between this coupling strength and the neutrino mass. This correlation persists when BAO data are included in the analysis. We add then priors on $\nu$ mass from particle experiments. The claimed detection of $\nu$ mass from the Heidelberg–Moscow neutrinoless double-$\beta$ decay experiment would imply a 7–$8\sigma$ detection of CDM–DE coupling. Similarly, the detection of $\nu$ mass from coming KATRIN tritium $\beta$ decay experiment will imply a safe detection of a coupling in the dark sector. Previous attempts to accommodate cosmic phenomenology with such possible $\nu$ mass data made recourse to a $w<-1$ eoS. We compare such an option with the coupling option and find that the latter allows a drastic improvement.     

GPS relative positioning at a precision level of one part per billion

Six days of data from the GIG'91 experiment have been analyzed with a fiducial strategy. The results obtained with our orbital software GEOSAT, show daily horizontal and length repeatabilities at the level of 1 part in 10⁹ plus 2 mm for baseline lengths up to 4000 km. A direct comparison with results from the GIPSY software shows, with some exceptions, mean differences at the sub-cm level. After transformation to ITRF'90 the rms of the coordinate differences is 14.8 mm. Studies of orbital predictions and comparisons with external high precision orbits indicate a mean orbit precision and accuracy of around 35 cm in each cartesian coordinate. Correlations between the GEOSAT and GIPSY solutions indicate some common model deficiencies.     

Competition and Knowledge in Javanese Rural Business

The paper focuses on information flows and the need for change in cottage industries in rural Indonesia. The context for small-scale business entrepreneurs has changed dramatically during the last decade of economic liberalisation and crisis. Emerging market opportunities, as well as national and international competition, now challenge indigenous businesses in their different geographical settings, and new information is indispensable for survival and growth. The principal question in the paper is whether small-scale agribusiness entrepreneurs are able to identify and utilise existing knowledge for the purpose of improving their competitive strength. By using case studies taking an actor's perspective, the empirical data give insight into the small entrepreneurs' perceptions of their business environments and the hindrances to innovation. Theories on dual economies, path dependence and information asymmetry form the basis for analysing two cases of Javanese agribusiness. The paper concludes that a gap prevails between "traditional" and "modern" sectors of this society, and that cottage industries have much to gain from linking up with external agencies. Regional universities may play a crucial role in enhancing information flows and disseminating competence.     

The assessment of vitellogenin as a biomarker of exposure to estrogenic compounds in two Australian perciformes

Vitellogenin (Vtg) is a yolk protein precursor that has been identified as a sensitive biomarker for exposure to estrogenic compounds. We evaluated specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for reactivity with plasma Vtg from two Australian Perciformes, the tropical barramundi (Lates calcarifer) and the temperate black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri). Blood plasma from 17beta-estradiol exposed (E2) male barramundi (20 mg kg(-1)) and male black bream (2.5-5.0 mg kg(-1)) were sent to Biosense Laboratories (Norway) for cross-reactivity testing using their extensive anti-Vtg antibody selection. Indirect ELISA results determined barramundi plasma displayed the highest binding affinities to ND-3G2 (monoclonal-Mab) and PO-1 (polyclonal-Pab). Black bream was most cross-reactive with ND-1C8 (Mab) and PO-2 (Pab). Next, plasma was assessed for Vtg induction in E2-dosed (5 mg kg(-1)), hatchery-reared barramundi and black bream versus a non-injected control group. Vtg production was assessed by Western blot and indirect ELISA using ND-3G2 and ND-1C8 Mabs, respectively. A prominent band was identified in the range of 100-200 kDa for all female black bream and for all E2-treated barramundi and black bream males, which was confirmed as Vtg by Western blot. Indirect ELISA results for barramundi demonstrated highly significant differences in E2-dosed fish as compared to control fish (Student t, P<0.001). E2 male black bream were significantly different than control males (Student t, P<0.001) and control and E2 females displayed highly significant differences (Student t, P<0.001). These results indicate that exposure to 17beta-estradiol induces significant Vtg production in males of the two Australian Perciformes, with potential use as a biomarker for exposure to estrogenic compounds.     

The two-body problem of a pseudo-rigid body and a rigid sphere

In this paper we consider the two-body problem of a spherical pseudo-rigid body and a rigid sphere. Due to the rotational and “re-labelling” symmetries, the system is shown to possess conservation of angular momentum and circulation. We follow a reduction procedure similar to that undertaken in the study of the two-body problem of a rigid body and a sphere so that the computed reduced non-canonical Hamiltonian takes a similar form. We then consider relative equilibria and show that the notions of locally central and planar equilibria coincide. Finally, we show that Riemann’s theorem on pseudo-rigid bodies has an extension to this system for planar relative equilibria.     

The hydrography and biology of a bloom of the coccolithophorid Emiliania huxleyi in the northern North Sea

In June/July 1994 a study was made of a small bloom of the coccolithophorid Emiliania huxleyi in an area of the North Sea to the east of the Shetland Islands. Observations on the hydrography of the study area indicated the bloom was associated with Atlantic water and was confined to an area in which a stable shallow mixed layer had formed. There was no evidence to suggest association of horizontal physical structure with the bloom development. High cell densities of >1– cells dm⁻³, together with low concentrations of PIC (<50 μg dm⁻³) and detached liths (2– liths cm⁻³) indicated that the bloom was studied at an early stage of development. Biochemical and physiological observations indicated active growth was taking place. The results presented are discussed in comparison with previous studies carried out in both oceanic and shelf seas.