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The book "Fisher-Hunter-Gatherer Complexity in North America" edited by Christina Perry Sampson explores the concept of complexity among hunter-gatherer societies in North America. The book challenges the traditional binary categorization of simple vs. complex hunter-gatherers and argues for a more nuanced understanding of variability within these societies. The authors emphasize that complexity should not be limited to socioeconomic aspects but should also include other domains such as worldviews, ritual, knowledge, and historical trajectories. However, the reviewer disagrees with the book's premise and argues that complexity should primarily be understood in terms of socioeconomic inequalities. The reviewer also critiques the book for oversimplifying the ethnographic record and creating strawman arguments. Overall, the book does not offer new perspectives but instead attacks traditional concepts of complexity. [Extracted from the article]

"Solarizing the Moon: Essays in Honour of Lionel Sims" is a book that explores the relationship between prehistoric cultures and celestial phenomena. The editors, Fabio Silva and Liz Henty, aim to interpret the cultural significance of the sky and its impact on different societies. The book includes various case studies and theoretical discussions on topics such as the transition from lunar to solar-centric calendars, the role of gender dynamics in shaping skyscapes, and the importance of social structure in understanding ontologies. The authors emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach, combining archaeology, history, linguistics, folklore, and other methods to evaluate different claims. While the book presents diverse perspectives, it also encourages readers to critically evaluate and consider multiple sources of data. [Extracted from the article]

European whitefish is a model species for adaptive radiation of fishes in temperate and subarctic lakes. In northern Europe the most commonly observed morphotypes are a generalist (LSR) morph and a pelagic specialist (DR) morph. The evolution of a pelagic specialist morph is something of an enigma, however, as this region is characterized by long, dark winters with pelagic primary production limited to a brief window in late summer. We conducted the first winter‐based study of polymorphic whitefish populations to determine the winter ecology of both morphs, and we combined seasonal diet and stable isotope analysis with several proxies of condition in three polymorphic whitefish populations. The generalist LSR morph fed on benthic and pelagic prey in summer but was solely reliant on benthic prey in winter. This was associated with a noticeable but moderate reduction in condition, lipid content and stomach fullness in winter relative to summer. In contrast, the DR whitefish occupied a strict pelagic niche in both seasons. A significant reduction in pelagic prey during winter resulted in severe decrease in condition, lipid content and stomach fullness in DR whitefish in winter relative to summer, with the pelagic morph apparently approaching starvation in winter. We suggest that this divergent approach to seasonal foraging is associated with the divergent life‐history traits of both morphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is relative agreement among many prehistorians that surpluses were an essential factor in the creation of socioeconomic inequalities and that storage was often an important aspect of surplus accumulation per Testart  (Les chasseurs-cueilleurs ou l’origine des inégalités 1982a), Testart (Current Anthropology, 23, 523–537, 1982b). However, there is little agreement concerning the existence of large-scale kills, storage, surpluses, or inequalities in the deeply incised river valleys of the Southwestern French Upper Paleolithic. We present observations from a number of studies indicating that there were likely large-scale reindeer kills with substantial amounts of meat being filleted, dried, and stored, as well as indications of surpluses that could have resulted in inequalities. We rely on ethnographic observations among the Inuit concerning hunting, butchering, and filleting of meat for drying, as well as on ethnographic patterns of storage, taphonomic observations about bone discard of these activities, the importance of cut marks, and the behavior of reindeer. A critical distinction is made between the treatment of bones from individually killed animals versus the treatment of bones from large-scale kills. We also consider the implications for storage and surpluses of logistical hunting/gathering patterns, relative sedentism, and skeletal indications of heavy reliance on stored meat. On balance, we conclude that these indications favor the existence of mass kills, storage, and surpluses in certain areas of Southwestern France in the Upper Paleolithic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reef ecosystems are characterized by highly heterogenous habitats and functionally diverse fish communities. Few studies have examined how functional diversity differs among habitats within these communities, i.e., species associated with a specific habitat may have similar trophic ecologies meaning that the functional diversity within the community is driven by habitat diversity or, conversely, high functional diversity within each habitat would indicate that resource segregation also occurs at the habitat level. We used stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen to estimate trophic position, resource use and ontogenetic niche shifts of 15 reef fishes associated with four distinct habitat types (cryptobenthic, epibenthic sand, epibenthic rock and hyperbenthic) on the Croatian coast of the Adriatic Sea. Trophic ecology was quite similar across fish assemblages, but there was strong evidence of niche segregation among fish species within each assemblage showing high functional diversity within each microhabitat. The sampled fish community contained benthic and pelagic resource users, along with multiple intermediate generalists. Consumer stable isotope ratios revealed considerable interspecific variation in resource use among fishes within each habitat type. The cryptobenthic fishes were a notable exception to this trend with the narrow range of resource use values, indicating reliance of these species on a single resource. The greatest diversity of trophic positions within a guild was observed in cryptobenthic and rock‐associated epibenthic fishes. The majority of observed ontogenetic variation in studied fish species reflected an increase in benthic resource use and trophic position. However, the degree of ontogenetic variation in trophic ecology of studied species, if present, was generally low, showing no dramatic change in the ecology of any species. The size structuring among guilds was considerable, with cryptobenthic fishes the smallest on average and hyperbenthic fishes the largest, despite guilds having similar ranges of trophic positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pb(ZrxTi1-x)O3 (PZT) thin films synthesized on Si by physical vapor deposition. • TiO2 used as a buffer layer on Si resulted in a crack free surface of PZT. • We have investigated the transition from rhombohedral to tetragonal PZT structure. • This research explores the potential to use PZT films on Si devices. The integration of lead zirconate titanate (Pb(Zr x Ti 1-x)O 3) (PZT) compounds on Si substrates with a smooth surface would provide a key technology for silicon photonic devices. The quality of the deposited thin film is critical in order to integrate Pb(Zr x Ti 1-x)O 3 on Si substrates for applications such as pyroelectric mid-infrared detectors or optical modulators. Here, we have applied physical vapour deposition technique using a modified molecular beam epitaxy tool to deposit perovskite Pb(Zr x Ti 1-x)O 3 on Si and Pt substrates. We have developed a method to grow crack-free PZT films on Si substrates. The fabrication procedure entailed the use of TiO 2 as a buffer layer and post annealing of the PZT/TiO 2 /Si films under oxygen atmosphere. Cross section Scanning Electron Microscopy images enabled the identification of two distinct layers: PZT and TiO 2 , which was also confirmed by Spectroscopic Ellipsometry. X-Ray Diffraction patterns indicated the transition from the rhombohedral to the tetragonal phase and the formation of the perovskite phase of Pb(Zr 0.44 Ti 0.56)O 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mechanistic understanding of how environmental change affects trophic ecology of fish at the individual and population level remains elusive. To address this, we conducted a space-for-time approach incorporating environmental gradients (temperature, precipitation and nutrients), lake morphometry (visibility, depth and area), fish communities (richness, competition and predation), prey availability (richness and density) and feeding (population niche breadth and individual trophic specialisation) for 15 native fish taxa belonging to different thermal guilds from 35 subarctic lakes along a marked climate-productivity gradient corresponding to future climate change predictions. We revealed significant and contrasting responses from two generalist species that are abundant and widely distributed in the region. The cold-water adapted European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) reduced individual specialisation in warmer and more productive lakes. Conversely, the cool-water adapted Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) showed increased levels of individual specialism along climate-productivity gradient. Although whitefish and perch differed in the way they consumed prey along the climate-productivity gradient, they both switched from consumption of zooplankton in cooler, less productive lakes, to macrozoobenthos in warmer, more productive lakes. Species with specialist benthic or pelagic feeding did not show significant changes in trophic ecology along the gradient. We conclude that generalist consumers, such as warmer adapted perch, have clear advantages over colder and clear-water specialised species or morphs through their capacity to undergo reciprocal benthic–pelagic switches in feeding associated with environmental change. The capacity to show trophic flexibility in warmer and more productive lakes is likely a key trait for species dominance in future communities of high latitudes under climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The See Change survey was designed to make z > 1 cosmological measurements by efficiently discovering high-redshift Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) and improving cluster mass measurements through weak lensing. This survey observed twelve galaxy clusters with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) spanning the redshift range z = 1.13–1.75, discovering 57 likely transients and 27 likely SNe Ia at z ∼ 0.8–2.3. As in similar previous surveys, this proved to be a highly efficient use of HST for supernova observations; the See Change survey additionally tested the feasibility of maintaining, or further increasing, the efficiency at yet higher redshifts, where we have less detailed information on the expected cluster masses and star formation rates. We find that the resulting number of SNe Ia per orbit is a factor of ∼8 higher than for a field search, and 45% of our orbits contained an active SN Ia within 22 rest-frame days of peak, with one of the clusters by itself yielding 6 of the SNe Ia. We present the survey design, pipeline, and supernova discoveries. Novel features include fully blinded supernova searches, the first random forest candidate classifier for undersampled IR data (with a 50% detection threshold within 0.05 mag of human searchers), real-time forward-modeling photometry of candidates, and semi-automated photometric classifications and follow-up forecasts. We also describe the spectroscopic follow-up, instrumental in measuring host galaxy redshifts. The cosmology analysis of our sample will be presented in a companion paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of researchers have argued that storage inherently generates surpluses and plays a critical role in the development of socioeconomic inequalities. This has led to archaeological attempts to track and quantify prehistoric storage practices. However, the models used have often been narrowly focused on traditional ecological assumptions, and the evidence used in interpretations has generally been in the form of pit storage or masonry structures. I contend that these approaches have produced flawed reconstructions of past storage and surplus conditions due to the widespread occurrence of storage techniques that leave little archaeological evidence. Indirect ways of monitoring surpluses and storage are probably far more accurate and reliable ways of dealing with these issues. I provide an example from the Near East of how this can be done by estimating the caloric requirements of feasts and prestige items. On the other hand, pit storage and the more archaeologically visible forms of storage can be used to address other interesting questions about past societies involving levels of security, inequalities, and exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megan Kassabaum has developed a useful approach for interpreting feasting remains, but its application to the Feltus site demonstrates that modifications need to be made. In particular, the characterization of competitive feasting is too simplistic, and her model does not include work types of feasts, which may be responsible for the remains at the Feltus site. The interpretation of feasting at the Feltus site as resulting from social solidarity needs of a dispersed egalitarian society appear questionable on the basis of a high incidence of special meat, the occurrence of smoking pipes, monumental architecture, and indications of possible human sacrifices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of functional perovskites for future technologies can be achieved though the combinatorial synthetic method of evaporative physical vapour deposition (HT-ePVD) which provides a direct low temperature route to anion stoichiometric materials. When combined with the ability to control and vary precisely the composition of thin film libraries of materials, high-throughput methods of screening and characterisation provides a rapid experimental determination of the structure/function relationship. This review of the use of HT-ePVD shows that controlled cationic substitutions in A and/or B sites can easily be explored, as can the effect of anionic substitution. This is exemplified in using this approach for a wide range of perovskite systems, where the tuning of the functional properties through cation substitution has application in a broad range of technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used stable isotopes of carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen to quantify the trophic position and resource use of larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus, four benthic macroinvertebrate functional feeding guilds (scraper, shredder, collector and predator) and other fishes in three rivers in eastern Canada. Larval lamprey and most invertebrate guilds foraged as primary consumers in all rivers whereas all other fishes predominantly foraged as secondary consumers. Larval lamprey obtained 75–85% of their resources from allochthonous derived material. This level exceeded all invertebrate guilds, which assimilated approximately 50% allochthonous and 50% autochthonous materials and fishes, which predominantly assimilated between 25% and 60% allochthonous material. Larval lamprey occupied a unique position within the river food webs analysed and show remarkable fidelity to a trophic niche specialising on terrestrially derived detritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of well-defined steps on the dynamics of the dissociative chemisorption of methane on Pt(533) has been investigated using molecular beam techniques. The initial dissociative chemisorption probability SO has been determined as a function of incident energy E[sub i], angle of incidence θ[sub i], and surface temperature T[sub S]. For incident kinetic energies in the range 26 < E[sub i](meV) < 1450, the initial dissociation probability of CH[sub 4] on the Pt(533) surface is higher than on Pt(111), for all surface temperatures investigated. This enhancement in dissociation is associated with the additional direct sticking mediated by the step sites, with no evidence for any additional indirect dynamical channel to dissociation induced by the step sites in the range of energies studied. The E[sub i] dependence can be separated into the contributions of the (111) terraces and the (100) steps. The latter exhibits an effective activation barrier for dissociation ≈300 meV lower than the (111) terraces. The angular dependence can also be interpreted as having two contributions, one associated with the (111) terraces, and the second associated with the steps. The angular dependence associated with the step sites is broader than the dependence expected for the (111) terraces, and has a maximum for incident trajectories with an angle between the angles corresponding to the normal directions of the (111) and (100) facets. An enhanced T[sub S] dependence is also observed on the Pt(533) surface over Pt(111). This is also associated with the influence of the step sites, and results either from the lower barrier to dissociation, or more likely a more effective coupling of the energy from the surface into the reaction coordinate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A parallel thermographic screen allows measurement of particle size and support effects on model planar catalysts. • The turn over frequency (TOF) of an exothermic reaction can be determined simultaneously on 100 catalysts. • The catalytic activity for CO oxidation of titania supported gold with particle sizes 6 > d/nm > 1.5 has been measured. • A monotonic increase in the TOF is observed with decreasing particle diameter (d) which is proportional to ca. d−1.8. • Calculation of the gold surface area evidences a surface specific activity of the gold which increases as ca. d−4. • The steep rise in activity suggests an electronic perturbation of the gold nano-particles by the substrate. Abstract A parallel thermographic screening methodology has been developed which allows the measurements of the particle size and support influences on model planar heterogeneous catalysts. A screening chip was designed and fabricated in order to produce multiple fields of low stress silicon nitride membranes that exhibit low thermal conductivity and heat capacity. The heat generated on supported model catalysts in an exothermic reaction on the membranes was measured using a thermal (infra-red) imaging camera, which in turn provided a measure of the turn over frequency (TOF) for the reaction. The catalytic activity for CO oxidation on titania supported gold model catalysts with varying particle size has been measured on 100 catalysts simultaneously. The reaction has been investigated at 80 °C and 170 °C, and pressures ranging between 0.06 mbar and 1.5 mbar for various O 2 :CO ratios. Under all conditions investigated, a monotonic increase in the TOF is observed with decreasing particle diameter (d) which is proportional to ca. d−1.8 in the range 6 > d/nm > 1.5. This is in the opposite direction to the number of potentially active perimeter sites which increases linearly with increasing particle size on these catalysts. We show that the surface area specific activity of the gold is increasing even more steeply with reduced particle size, and is proportional to ca. d−4. This rate of increase in activity is significantly higher than one would expect by any increase one may expect as a result of more active low co-ordinate sites on the gold. The steep increase in activity is ascribed to an electronic interaction between the substrate and the particle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is resulting in increased temperatures and precipitation in subarctic regions of Europe. These changes are extending tree lines to higher altitudes and latitudes, and enhancing tree growth enabling intensification of forestry into previously inhospitable subarctic regions. The combined effects of climate change and land-use intensification extend the warm, open-water season in subarctic lakes and increase lake productivity and may also increase leaching and methylation activity of mercury within the lakes. To assess the joint effects of climate and productivity on total mercury (THg) bioaccumulation in fish, we conducted a space-for-time substitution study in 18 tributary lakes of a subarctic watercourse forming a gradient from cold pristine oligotrophic lakes in the northern headwaters to warmer and increasingly human-altered mesotrophic and eutrophic systems in the southern lower reaches. Increasing temperature, precipitation, and lake productivity were predicted to elevate length- and age-adjusted THg concentrations, as well as THg bioaccumulation rate (the rate of THg bioaccumulation relative to length or age) in muscle tissue of European whitefish ( Coregonus lavaretus ), vendace ( Coregonus albula ), perch ( Perca fluviatilis ), pike ( Esox lucius ), roach ( Rutilus rutilus ) and ruffe ( Gymnocephalus cernua ). A significant positive relationship was observed between age-adjusted THg concentration and lake climate-productivity in vendace (r 2  = 0.50), perch (r 2  = 0.51), pike (r 2  = 0.55) and roach (r 2  = 0.61). Higher climate-productivity values of the lakes also had a positive linear (pike; r 2  = 0.40 and whitefish; r 2  = 0.72) or u-shaped (perch; r 2  = 0.64 and ruffe; r 2  = 0.50) relationship with THg bioaccumulation rate. Our findings of increased adjusted THg concentrations in planktivores and piscivores reveal adverse effects of warming climate and increasing productivity on these subarctic fishes, whereas less distinct trends in THg bioaccumulation rate suggest more complex underlying processes. Joint environmental stressors such as climate and productivity should be considered in ongoing and future monitoring of mercury concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compositionally graduated thin films of a SrTi 1 − x Fe x O 3 − y (STFO) perovskite electrocatalysts were successfully prepared by High Throughput Physical Vapour Deposition (HT-PVD) using evaporative sources. X-ray diffraction confirmed a continuous solid solution of the cubic perovskite structure with an increase in the lattice parameter with increasing x from 0.392 ± 0.001 nm for SrTiO 3 to 0.386 ± 0.001 nm for SrFeO 3 . A Raman mode corresponding to an O-stretching vibration was observed which is disallowed by symmetry in the cubic structure suggests a localised lattice distortion. The perovskites exhibited poor conductivity for low values of x ( ρ < 7 × 10 − 8 S cm − 1 ) but conductivity increased with increasing Fe content before reaching a plateau at ρ = 0.041 S cm − 1 for x > 0.75. Increasing electrocatalytic activity towards the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with increasing Fe content was observed, characterised by a 100 μA onset potential varying monotonically from 1.52V RHE (x = 0.2) to 1.40V RHE (x = 0.85). The high OER activity was however found to correlate with low electrode stability, consistent with the participation of lattice oxygen in the OER mechanism. The latter was evidenced by the redox electrochemistry associated with reversible oxygen intercalation. SrTi 0.5 Fe 0.5 O 3 − y exhibited the optimal composition with good OER activity and electrode stability. Low electrocatalytic activity towards the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) was observed for all oxygen stoichiometric compositions. The ORR did not occur until after reduction of the films suggesting that surface reduction is required for the creation of the active surface sites. ORR activity on the oxygen sub-stoichiometric perovskites showed the opposite trend with compositional variation to OER activity on the oxygen stoichiometric perovskites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combinatorial synthetic methodology based on evaporation sources under an ultrahigh vacuum has been used to directly synthesize compositional gradient thin film libraries of the amorphous phases of GeSbTe alloys at room temperature over a wide compositional range. An optical screen is described that allows rapid parallel mapping of the amorphous-to-crystalline phase transition temperature and optical contrast associated with the phase change on such libraries. The results are shown to be consistent with the literature for compositions where published data are available along the Sb2Te3-GeTe tie line. The results reveal a minimum in the crystallization temperature along the Sb2Te3-Ge2Te3 tie line, and the method is able to resolve subsequent cubic-to-hexagonal phase transitions in the GST crystalline phase. HT-XRD has been used to map the phases at sequentially higher temperatures, and the results are reconciled with the literature and trends in crystallization temperatures. The results clearly delineate compositions that crystallize to pure GST phases and those that cocrystallize Te. High-throughput measurement of the resistivity of the amorphous and crystalline phases has allowed the compositional and structural correlation of the resistivity contrast associated with the amorphous-to-crystalline transition, which range from 5-to-8 orders of magnitude for the compositions investigated. The results are discussed in terms of the compromises in the selection of these materials for phase change memory applications and the potential for further exploration through more detailed secondary screening of doped GST or similar classes of phase change materials designed for the demands of future memory devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and species invasions represent key threats to global biodiversity. Subarctic freshwaters are sentinels for understanding both stressors because the effects of climate change are disproportionately strong at high latitudes and invasion of temperate species is prevalent. Here, we summarize the environmental effects of climate change and illustrate the ecological responses of freshwater fishes to these effects, spanning individual, population, community and ecosystem levels. Climate change is modifying hydrological cycles across atmospheric, terrestrial and aquatic components of subarctic ecosystems, causing increases in ambient water temperature and nutrient availability. These changes affect the individual behavior, habitat use, growth and metabolism, alter population spawning and recruitment dynamics, leading to changes in species abundance and distribution, modify food web structure, trophic interactions and energy flow within communities and change the sources, quantity and quality of energy and nutrients in ecosystems. Increases in temperature and its variability in aquatic environments underpin many ecological responses; however, altered hydrological regimes, increasing nutrient inputs and shortened ice cover are also important drivers of climate change effects and likely contribute to context-dependent responses. Species invasions are a complex aspect of the ecology of climate change because the phenomena of invasion are both an effect and a driver of the ecological consequences of climate change. Using subarctic freshwaters as an example, we illustrate how climate change can alter three distinct aspects of species invasions: (1) the vulnerability of ecosystems to be invaded, (2) the potential for species to spread and invade new habitats, and (3) the subsequent ecological effects of invaders. We identify three fundamental knowledge gaps focused on the need to determine (1) how environmental and landscape characteristics influence the ecological impact of climate change, (2) the separate and combined effects of climate and non-native invading species and (3) the underlying ecological processes or mechanisms responsible for changes in patterns of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A great deal of progress has been made by archaeologists in recognizing the importance of groundstone and bedrock features as well as in detailed descriptions of these features. We are now well positioned to undertake some of the more probing issues of what these features were used for and why they become common in some times and places but not others. In these endeavors, analysts should avail themselves of critical ethnographic observations and employ analytical frameworks like Design Theory. Of particular importance will be determining whether specific groundstone types were used primarily for processing high-effort feasting foods or whether they were used for processing daily subsistence foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and land-use intensification are increasing productivity in subarctic lakes. Simultaneously, fish and invertebrate species adapted to temperate conditions are expanding their range northwards into subarctic habitats. Community level studies are required to predict long-term effects of these dual stressors on subarctic freshwater ecosystems., We conducted a space-for-time study examining the fish, benthic invertebrate and pelagic zooplankton communities in littoral, profundal and pelagic habitats in 19 subarctic lakes situated on a temperature, land-use and productivity gradient in northern Europe., Fish density (ranging between 0.5 and 150.5 fish per net series h−1) and biomass (range between 92 and 5,147 g per net series h−1) increased significantly with increasing lake temperature and productivity. This was associated with significantly decreasing body size (26 to 12 cm total length; 174 to 19 g body mass) and a shift in fish community structure from salmonid (Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus, whitefish Coregonus lavaretus), to percid (ruffe Gymnocephalus cernua, perch Perca fluviatilis) and ultimately cyprinid (roach Rutilus rutilus, bleak Alburnus alburnus) dominance. Changes in fish community composition were most apparent in littoral and pelagic zones., Benthic macroinvertebrate density peaked in mesotrophic lakes, zooplankton density was highest at either end of the gradient, indicating habitat specific differences in predation pressure and top-down control. Body size of zooplankton and benthic macroinvertebrates was negatively related to temperature and productivity., These results suggest that climate change and intensification of land-use practices are gradually turning subarctic lakes into warmer, less transparent and more productive systems harbouring abundant, small-sized and warmer adapted communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The River Continuum Concept (RCC) predicts that riverine food webs shift from a reliance on allochthonous energy in headwaters to autochthonous production in lower reaches. However, estimates of resource reliance often fail to account for resource segregation within the food web. Stable-isotope biomarkers can be used to estimate the relative importance of allochthonous and autochthonous material to specific groups and within the food web. δ13C and δ15N isotope ratios were calculated for allochthonous (conditioned leaf litter) and autochthonous (biofilm and bryophytes) basal energy sources, macroinvertebrate functional feeding groups (shredder, grazer, collector-filterer, collector-gatherer, predator), and resident fish species at 17 locations spanning the headwaters to lower reaches of 2 river systems in eastern Canada. Stable-isotope mixing models and correlations were used to identify longitudinal trends in the food webs of both rivers. In headwater streams, allochthonous material was the predominant resource for shredders, whereas all other primary, secondary, and tertiary consumers predominantly used autochthonous basal resources. Stable-isotope ratios of allochthonous material varied minimally between sites. Both autochthonous basal sources were significantly 13C-enriched and 15N-depleted in lower-reach relative to headwater sites. Shredders displayed minimal variation across sites, whereas longitudinal variation in all other primary consumers, macroinvertebrate predators, and fishes was closely correlated with autochthonous basal sources. These results highlight the role of resource segregation within river food webs and indicate that the RCC may not predict energy pathways in all temperate river systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-film materials libraries of the Bi 2 O 3 –Na 2 O–TiO 2 –BaO system in a broad composition range have been deposited in ultra-high vacuum from elemental evaporation sources and an oxygen plasma source. A high throughput approach was used for systematic compositional and structural characterization and the screening of the dielectric and ferroelectric properties. The perovskite (Bi,Na)TiO 3 –BaTiO 3 phase with a Ba concentration near the morphotropic phase boundary (ca. 6 at.%) exhibited a relative dielectric permittivity of 180, a loss tangent of 0.04 and remnant polarization of 19 μC/cm 2 . Compared to published data, observed remnant polarization is close to that known for epitaxially grown films but higher than the values reported for polycrystalline films. The high throughput methodology and systematic nature of the study allowed us to establish the composition boundaries of the phase with optimal dielectric and ferroelectric characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fish fin is a widely used, non-lethal sample material in studies using stable isotopes to assess the ecology of fishes. However, fish fin is composed of two distinct tissues (ray and membrane) which may have different stable isotope values and are not homogeneously distributed within a fin. As such, estimates of the stable isotope values of a fish may vary according to the section of fin sampled. Methods: To assess the magnitude of this variation, we analysed carbon (δ13C), nitrogen (δ15N), hydrogen (δ2H) and oxygen (δ18O) stable isotopes of caudal fin from juvenile, riverine stages of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta). Individual fins were sub-sectioned into tip, mid and base, of which a further subset were divided into ray and membrane. Findings: Isotope variation between fin sections, evident in all four elements, was primarily related to differences between ray and membrane. Base sections were13C depleted relative to tip (~ 1 ‰) with equivalent variation evident between ray and membrane. A similar trend was evident in δ2H, though the degree of variation was far greater (~ 10 ‰). Base and ray sections were 18O enriched (~ 2 ‰) relative to tip and membrane, respectively. Ray and membrane sections displayed longitudinal variation in 15N mirroring that of composite fin (~ 1 ‰), indicating that variation in15N values was likely related to ontogenetic variation. Conclusions: To account for the effects of intra-fin variability in stable isotope analyses we suggest that researchers sampling fish fin, in increasing priority, 1) also analyse muscle (or liver) tissue from a subsample of fish to calibrate their data, or 2) standardize sampling by selecting tissue only from the extreme tip of a fin, or 3) homogenize fins prior to analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oldowan lithic assemblages are often portrayed as a product of the need to obtain sharp flakes for cutting into animal car cases. However, ethnographic and experimental research indicates that the optimal way to produce flakes for such butchering purposes is via bipolar reduction of small cryptocrystalline pebbles rather than from larger crystalline cores resembling choppers. Ethnographic observations of stone tool-using hunter-gatherers in environments comparable with early hominins indicate that most stone tools (particularly chopper forms and flake tools) were used for making simple shaft tools including spears, digging sticks and throwing sticks. These tools bear strong resemblances to Oldowan stone tools. Bipolar reduction for butchering probably preceded chopper-like core reduction and provides a key link between primate nut-cracking technologies and the emergence of more sophisticated lithic technologies leading to the Oldowan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change in recent decades has resulted in an increase in both the density and diversity of consumers in subarctic freshwater ecosystems. Despite this, harsh winter conditions in the region limit productivity and may serve as a bottleneck driving trophic interactions within the fish community, potentially determining the outcome of climate change for resident biota. However, due to the difficulties in sampling during winter months, few studies have assessed seasonal variation in the ecological interactions between native and range-expanding species in subarctic regions., We examined seasonal variation in activity, diet (stomach content) and resource use (δ13C and δ15N stable isotope ratios) of two fishes: the resident cold-water-adapted European whitefish ( Coregonus lavaretus L.) and the range-expanding cool-water-adapted ruffe ( Gymnocephalus cernua L.) in lakes with low and high consumer density. Results were contrasted with seasonal availability of benthic and pelagic resources and indirect measures of individual fitness, that is condition, growth and estimated lipid content (muscle elemental C : N ratio) of both species., The effects of fish density were apparent in both the diet and resource use of whitefish, which altered their diet and displayed reduced stomach fullness during winter in high-density lakes. This was associated with an overall reduction in whitefish growth, condition and estimated lipid content in high-density lakes, which was especially pronounced during winter., Ruffe utilised a greater proportion of profundal resources than whitefish in both summer and winter, potentially exploiting a vacant niche. Ruffe maintained condition and lipid reserves throughout the winter, highlighting the potential for further northward range expansion of the species., Winter acts as a seasonal bottleneck in subarctic lakes, but assumptions that this bottleneck primarily selects against warmer-water-adapted invasive species such as ruffe may be too restrictive. The effects of seasonal resource depletion on fish condition and invertebrate density were most severe in lakes with a high density of fish, and in these conditions, the cold-water-adapted resident whitefish was most adversely affected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological systems are often characterized as stable entities. However, basal productivity in most ecosystems varies between seasons, particularly in subarctic and polar areas. How this variability affects higher trophic levels or entire food webs remains largely unknown, especially in these high-latitude regions., We undertook a year-long study of benthic (macroinvertebrate) and pelagic (zooplankton) resource availability, along with short (day/days: stomach content)-, medium (month: liver δ13 C and δ15 N isotopes)- and long-term (season: muscle δ13 C and δ15 N isotopes) assessments of resource use by a generalist fish, the European whitefish, in a deep, oligotrophic, subarctic lake in northern Europe. Due to the long ice-covered winter period, we expected to find general benthic reliance throughout the year, but also a seasonal importance of zooplankton to the diet, somatic growth and gonadal development of whitefish., Benthic and pelagic resource availability varied between seasons: peak littoral benthic macroinvertebrate density occurred in mid-winter, whereas maximum zooplankton density was observed in summer. Whitefish stomach content revealed a reliance on benthic prey items during winter and pelagic prey in summer. A seasonal shift from benthic to pelagic prey was evident in liver isotope ratios, but muscle isotope ratios indicated a year-round reliance on benthic macroinvertebrates. Whitefish activity levels as well as somatic and gonadal growth all peaked during the summer, coinciding with the zooplankton peak and the warmest water temperature., Stable isotopes of muscle consistently depicted the most important resource, benthic macroinvertebrates, whereas short-term indicators, that is, diet and stable isotopes of liver, revealed the seasonal significance of pelagic zooplankton for somatic growth and gonad development. Seasonal variability in resource availability strongly influences consumer growth and reproduction and may also be important in other ecosystems facing pronounced annual weather fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is increasing ambient temperatures in Arctic and subarctic regions, facilitating latitudinal range expansions of freshwater fishes adapted to warmer water temperatures. The relative roles of resource availability and interspecific interactions between resident and invading species in determining the outcomes of such expansions has not been adequately evaluated. Ecological interactions between a cool-water adapted fish, the perch (Perca fluviatilis), and the cold-water adapted European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus), were studied in both shallow and deep lakes with fish communities dominated by (1) monomorphic whitefish, (2) monomorphic whitefish and perch, and (3) polymorphic whitefish and perch. A combination of stomach content, stable-isotope, and invertebrate prey availability data were used to identify resource use and niche overlap among perch, the trophic generalist large sparsely rakered (LSR) whitefish morph, and the pelagic specialist densely rakered (DR) whitefish morph in 10 subarctic lakes at the contemporary distribution limit of perch in northern Scandinavia. Perch utilized its putative preferred littoral niche in all lakes. LSR whitefish utilized both littoral and pelagic resources in monomorphic whitefish-dominated lakes. When found in sympatry with perch, LSR whitefish exclusively utilized pelagic prey in deep lakes, but displayed niche overlap with perch in shallow littoral lakes. DR whitefish was a specialist zooplanktivore, relegating LSR whitefish from pelagic habitats, leading to an increase in niche overlap between LSR whitefish and perch in deep lakes. Our results highlight how resource availability (lake depth and fish community) governs ecological interactions between native and invading species, leading to different outcomes even at the same latitudes. These findings suggest that lake morphometry and fish community structure data should be included in bioclimate envelope-based models of species distribution shifts following predicted climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A range of Ni–W thin film alloys have been synthesised by evaporation from atomic sources to produce a compositional gradient across the substrate, and characterised by X-ray diffraction (phase identification and crystallite size) and EDX (composition). The corrosion resistance of 100 discrete alloy compositions has been measured simultaneously in identical environments using a high-throughput screening protocol based on cyclic voltammetry. The corrosion resistances and potentials are extracted from potentiodynamic data by both the linear polarisation resistance (LPR) and Tafel extrapolation methods; results from these are shown to be self-consistent. The high-throughput approach allows, for the first time, a direct correlation to be made between the bulk crystalline phases and morphology, and the corrosion behaviour of Ni–W alloys. The incorporation of W in the Ni–W solid solution at low W compositions results in a continuous reduction in crystallite size, a small cathodic shift in corrosion potential, and a small reduction in corrosion resistance. A large cathodic shift in corrosion potential together with a significant increase in the corrosion resistance is observed for alloy compositions greater than 24%at. W. This composition range coincides with the formation of the amorphous phase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Researchers increasingly recognize that, as with standard supportedheterogeneous catalysts, the activity and selectivity of supported metal electrocatalysts are influenced by particle size, particle structure, and catalyst support. Studies using model supported heterogeneous catalysts have provided information about these effects. Similarly, model electrochemical studies on supported metal electrocatalysts can provide insight into the factors determining catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many species are expanding their distribution towards higher latitudes and altitudes in response to climate change. These range shifts are expected to change fish community structure and alter food-web dynamics in subarctic lakes. However, the impacts of invading species on native fish and invertebrate prey communities remain understudied., The trophic ecology of invasive species determines the likelihood of direct resource competition with native taxa. In Northern Europe, perch ( Perca fluviatilis), a trophic generalist, and ruffe ( Gymnocephalus cernuus), a benthic specialist, are expanding their distribution ranges northwards, colonising lakes inhabited by a native generalist, whitefish ( Coregonus lavaretus). We predicted that increased fish diversity and density would deplete the invertebrate community and increase resource competition between native and invasive species., To assess the degree of resource competition between native and invasive species, we compared (i) fish and invertebrate community structure; (ii) diet and stable carbon and nitrogen ratios of whitefish, ruffe and perch and (iii) growth, condition and relative population size of whitefish in two non-invaded lakes with two lakes containing one and two lakes containing both invasive species. Each lake was sampled on a single occasion between August and September., Benthic macroinvertebrate density and community structure were unaffected by increased consumer diversity, while top-down control of pelagic zooplankton density and size was evident in lakes with increased fish diversity., Differences in diet and stable isotope ratios were evident between all whitefish populations, although these were not directly related to the presence of invasive species. Specialised adaptations of invasive species may confer a competitive advantage in invaded lakes; ruffe dominated the profundal niche, while perch displayed an ontogenetic shift to piscivory, reducing niche overlap with native whitefish., Growth rate and population density of whitefish were largely independent of fish community structure and were governed by local variations in lake productivity. However, there was a sign of lowered condition of whitefish in invaded systems. Shallow and more productive lakes with higher food availability supported populations of native and invasive species., Our findings indicate that trophic specialisations of invasive species play a key role in determining their impacts on the systems they invade. This study focussed on early stages of invasion, and the outcome of species interactions may change following the establishment of new species. In addition, these impacts will not be uniform across the invaded landscape as lake-specific variations in morphometry and resource availability will alter the competitive balance between native and invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lakes in Arctic and subarctic regions display extreme levels of seasonal variation in light, temperature and ice cover. Comparatively little is known regarding the effects of such seasonal variation on the diet and resource use of fish species inhabiting these systems. Variation in the diet of European whitefish Coregonus lavaretus ( L.) during periods of ice cover in this region is often regarded as 'common knowledge'; however, this aspect of the species' ecology has not been examined empirically. Here, we outline the differences in invertebrate community structure, fish activity, and resource use of monomorphic whitefish populations between summer ( August- September) and winter ( February- March) in three subarctic lakes in Finnish Lapland. Benthic macroinvertebrate densities did not exhibit measurable differences between summer and winter. Zooplankton diversity and abundance, and activity levels of all fish species (measured as catch per unit effort) were lower in winter. The summer diet of C. lavaretus was typical of a generalist utilising a variety of prey sources. In winter, its dietary niche was significantly reduced, and the diet was dominated by chironomid larvae in all study sites. Pelagic productivity decreases during winter, and fish species inhabiting these systems are therefore restricted to feeding on benthic prey. Sampling time has strong effect on our understanding of resource utilisation by whitefish in subarctic lakes and should be taken into account in future studies of these systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has long been speculated that increasing demands for cereals for the purposes of brewing beer led to domestication in the Near Eastern Natufian cultures. While the question of whether cereals were being used in beer production is an important issue, it has remained a difficult proposition to test. We present some new perspectives on traditional brewing techniques relevant to this issue, on archaeological remains, and on the paleoecology of the Near East. Taken together, these observations provide more compelling circumstantial evidence that makes it increasingly likely that brewing of beer was an important aspect of feasting and society in the Late Epipaleolithic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The corrosion behaviour of a series of NiCr thin film alloys were characterised through the high-throughput electrochemical measurement of their polarisation resistance on a micro-fabricated array of electrodes. The linear polarisation resistance (LPR) method has been compared to the results from Tafel extrapolation, and the alloy compositional dependence of the polarisation resistance as a function of composition is consistent. There are, however, some systematic differences in the absolute values extracted using the two methodologies which are likely to be a result of the smaller current densities associated with the LPR method. In the case of the NiCr alloys deposited at 300K, the observed bulk phases closely agree with those expected from the literature. The polarisation resistance behaviour is shown to be directly related to the bulk alloy structures. Besides the b.c.c. α-Cr(Im3m) phase and its Ni solid solutions which exhibit the highest polarisation resistances, the σ-Cr3Ni2(P42/mnm) phase exhibits the next best polarisation resistance, and its co-existence with the σ-Cr7Ni3 (P42/mnm) phase at higher Cr content results in a lowering of that resistance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary The cognitive and social capacities of Neandertals have been questioned by a number of authors, while others suggest that such capacities did not differ markedly from those of anatomically modern humans in the last 30,000 years. What does the material evidence indicate? The information that can be gleaned from Middle Palaeolithic sites indicates that there were Neandertal bands of about 12-24 people that formed alliances with 10-20 other bands and had enemy relationships as well. Rituals probably helped hold alliances together. These conclusions indicate that there were language or dialect groups that were probably ethnically self-conscious. Some of the postulated band ranges and population densities in the literature appear unrealistic. Sexual division of labour was probably pronounced and Neandertals appear to have used rudimentary status markers, including predator pelts, bird wings or claws, colorants, and a range of speciality items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of feasting has gradually emerged from early descriptions and bewilderment to more sophisticated attempts to understand the logic and reasons behind the often lavish displays. We chart the various models that have been, and still are, used by anthropologists and archaeologists to explain this unique human behavior. Acquiring prestige is a popular explanation used by ethnographers, while coping with social conflicts is commonly invoked by archaeologists. However, more practical benefits behind feasts have also been proposed, as well as experiential motivations. Whichever explanation is endorsed, there is widespread agreement that feasts play important roles in establishing social identities and memories, creating political power and inequalities, gender identities, accomplishing work, and developing prestige technologies, possibly including domesticates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beginning with Alexander Marshack's interpretation of engraved lines as lunar calendrical notations, a number of highly controversial claims have been made concerning the possible astronomical significance of Upper Palaeolithic images. These claims range from lunar notations, to solstice observances in caves, to constellation representations. Given the rare nature of artefacts and images that lend themselves to such interpretations, these claims are generally difficult to evaluate on the basis of archaeological data alone. However, comparative ethnology can provide at least a way of assessing the plausibility of such astronomical claims. If the premise is accepted that at least some of the Upper Palaeolithic groups were complex hunter-gatherers, then astronomical observances, or the lack of them, among ethnographic complex hunter-gatherers can help indicate whether astronomical observations were likely to have taken place among Upper Palaeolithic complex hunter-gatherers. A survey of the literature shows that detailed solstice observances were common among complex hunter-gatherers, often associated with the keeping of calendars and the scheduling of major ceremonies. Moreover, aggrandizers in complex hunter-gatherer societies often form ‘secret societies’ in which esoteric astronomical knowledge is developed. The existence of calendrical notations and secluded meeting places for secret-society members are suggested to be at least plausible interpretations for a number of Upper Palaeolithic caves and images. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Summary 1. Recent proliferation of hybridisation in response to anthropogenic ecosystem change, coupled with increasing evidence of the importance of ancient hybridisation events in the formation of many species, has moved hybridisation to the forefront of evolutionary theory. 2. In spite of this, the mechanisms (e.g. differences in trophic ecology) by which hybrids co-exist with parental taxa are poorly understood. A unique hybrid zone exists in Irish freshwater systems, whereby hybrid offspring off two non-native cyprinid fishes often outnumber both parental species. 3. Using stable isotope and gut content analyses, we determined the trophic interactions between sympatric populations of roach ( Rutilus rutilus), bream ( Abramis brama) and their hybrid in lacustrine habitats. 4. The diet of all three groups displayed little variation across the study systems, and dietary overlap was observed between both parental species and hybrids. Hybrids displayed diet, niche breadth and trophic position that were intermediate between the two parental species while also exhibiting greater flexibility in diet across systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of the lithium ion conductor Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3 solid solution and the surrounding composition space was carried out using a high throughput physical vapor deposition system. An optimum total ionic conductivity value of 5.45 x 10-4 S cm-1 was obtained for the composition Li0.17La0.29Ti0.54 (Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3 x = 0.11). This optimum value was calculated using an artificial neural network model based on the empirical data. Due to the large scale of the data set produced and the complexity of synthesis, informatics tools were required to analyze the data. Partition analysis was carried out to determine the synthetic parameters of importance and their threshold values. Multivariate curve resolution and principal component analysis were applied to the dim-action data set. This analysis enabled the construction of phase distribution diagrams, illustrating both the phases obtained and the compositional zones in which they occur. The synthetic technique presented has Significant advantages over other thin film and bulk methodologies. In terms of both the compositional range covered and the nature of the materials produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the recovery of remains of traditional corporate group residences by archaeologists in Southeast Asia. The article discusses the use of long houses as shared domestic spaces, the practice of communal feasting and communities in which this living style is common including the Ta Oi, Monong Gar and Rhadé. The article goes on to discuss the effect of industrialism on these communities and the way in which some policies could be considered "cultural genocide."

Abstract: Most high throughput studies focus on assessing the effect of composition within a single known fundamental structure type, such as perovskite. Here we demonstrate how high throughput synthesis and screening can be used to establish structure–property relations in the PbO–Nb2O5 system, for which eight distinct fundamental structure types are known to exist. PbNb4O11, PbNb2O6 and pyrochlore could be easily distinguished by X-ray diffraction (XRD). However, XRD was insensitive to distortions of the pyrochlore structure and instead Raman spectroscopy was utilized to determine changes in symmetry from cubic to rhombohedral as the PbO concentration increased. High throughput screening of the capacitance revealed permittivity (εr ) maxima in the PbNb4O11 (εr =700) and cubic pyrochlore phases (εr =450). The εr of PbNb4O11 has not to date been reported but the value for cubic pyrochlore is higher than that reported for bulk ceramics (εr =270). Initial high electric field studies also revealed exceptionally high tunability (four times that reported for bismuth zinc niobate-based pyrochlores) of the capacitance in the pyrochlore phase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The morphology of TiO2(110)-(1×1) supported Cu particles has been investigated by Fourier Transform Reflection Absorption Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-RAIRS), employing adsorbed CO as a probe molecule sensitive to local surface structure. For Cu coverage (deposited at 300K) less than 2.85 MLE nucleated Cu particles in the range 2nm–4nm are formed, as indicated by a final state shift in the core level Cu(2p3/2) binding energy and by the existence of only transmission bands in the FT-RAIRS spectra for adsorbed CO. νS(CO) indicates that these small particles expose sites similar to those of the stepped Cu surfaces Cu(211), Cu(311), and Cu(755). At Cu coverages in the range of 6 MLE and above, corresponding to particle sizes above 4.6nm, νS(CO) indicates the predominance of (110), (100) and (111) adsorption sites. Annealing the Cu layers to 650K results in the slight growth of the particle sizes, and transformation of the CO adsorption sites corresponding to the close packed facets. The transformation of the local dielectric from that of titania to that dominated by the Cu particle is shown to take place between 3.7 and 4.2nm, and this change is also to a smaller extent sensitive to the dispersion of the particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The potential role hybridisation in adaptive radiation and the evolution of new lineages has received much recent attention. Hybridisation between roach (Rutilus rutilus L.) and bream (Abramis brama L.) is well documented throughout Europe, however hybrids in Ireland occur at an unprecedented frequency, often exceeding that of both parental species. Utilising an integrated approach, which incorporates geometric morphometrics, life history and molecular genetic analyses we identify the levels and processes of hybridisation present, while also determining the direction of hybridisation, through the analysis of mitochondrial DNA. Results: The presence of F2 hybrids was found to be unlikely from the studied populations, although significant levels of backcrossing, involving both parental taxa was observed in some lakes. Hybridisation represents a viable conduit for introgression of genes between roach and bream. The vast majority of hybrids in all populations studied exhibited bream mitochondrial DNA, indicating that bream are maternal in the majority of crosses. Conclusions: The success of roach × bream hybrids in Ireland is not due to a successful self reproducing lineage. The potential causes of widespread hybridisation between both species, along with the considerations regarding the role of hybridisation in evolution and conservation, are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a series of publications, Prentiss et al. (2003, 2005, 2007, 2008) have argued for a very late, abrupt, and brief emergence of large villages and large corporate residences in the mid-Fraser region of British Columbia (~1600-800 cal B.P.) and an even later abrupt emergence of socioeconomic complexity (~1200-800 cal B.P.). They postulate that climatic changes were responsible for both of these events as well as the collapse of the large villages. We question their interpretations on several grounds including: inappropriate methods for dating these developments; data from Keatley Creek indicating a longer developmental trajectory; incomplete interpretation of paleoclimate trends for the region; and internal contradictions in their own climate-driven explanations for changes. The combined evidence of geochronology and paleoecology (some not previously considered) together with archaeological evidence favors an interpretation of earlier emergence of large villages and socioeconomic complexity than suggested by Prentiss et al. (2003, 2005, 2007, 2008). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feasting has been proposed as the major context and impetus behind the intensification of production leading to the domestication of plants and animals. This article examines the way feasting contributes to fitness in traditional societies through the reduction of risks involving subsistence, reproduction, and violent confrontations. As other authors have noted, the risk-reduction strategies used by simple foragers differ significantly from risk-reduction strategies used by transegalitarian hunter-gatherers and horticulturalists. These differences are examined in more detail and are related to the emergence of feasting in transegalitarian societies. Surplus-based feasting is proposed as an entirely new element in community dynamics, probably first developed during the Upper Paleolithic in Europe, but becoming much more widespread in the world with the development of Mesolithic technology. Because feasting entails survival and risk-reduction benefits, it creates inherently inflationary food- production forces. These elements first appear among complex hunter-gatherers and logically lead to the intensification of food production, ultimately resulting in the domestication of plants and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In this analysis, notations in the Paleolithic are viewed as created for multiple purposes some of which can be identified. • The most common appear to be accounting tallies or debts which can be further divided into private and public accounts. • Other purposes seem to involve displays of rank or major events held, astronomical observations, and perhaps messages. • Notations with counts into the hundreds or thousands are indications of complex hunter/gatherer socio-economic organizations. Alexander Marshack focused attention of prehistorians on artifacts with marks that appeared to be notations. He interpreted many of these artifacts as day counts in lunar phases. These views were sometimes challenged on technical grounds, but little has been done since Marshack's work to understand what such marks might represent. The aim of this article is to establish a preliminary framework for interpreting prehistoric notations. This involves: distinguishing notations from decoration or other types of marking; establishing a range of uses from known ethnographic notations; identifying diagnostic features of notational artifacts; and providing provisional interpretations of some prehistoric examples of notations. I provide eight criteria for distinguishing notations from decorations, and suggest several principles for interpreting notations. The ethnographic data indicate that material notations above the range of 10–30 marks are hallmarks of transegalitarian societies usually with relatively complex numerical systems that extend into hundreds or thousands. Combining ethnographic observations and theoretical considerations, I conclude that there are a number of distinctive record keeping patterns in material remains related to: 1) public displays, 2) feasting, 3) private debts or records, and 4) astronomical records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The surface redox behaviour, the stability, and the electro-oxidation of CO on model platinum–tin surface alloy catalysts has been studied by ex situ electrochemical measurements. The Pt(111)–Sn(2×2) and Pt(111)–Sn(√3×√3)R30° surfaces have been prepared and characterised in UHV by vapour deposition of Sn on Pt(111) and the surfaces subsequently transferred for electrochemical investigation. A surface redox couple, which is associated with the adsorption/desorption of hydroxide on the Sn sites, is observed at 0.28VRHE/0.15VRHE in H2SO4 electrolyte on both surfaces. Evidence that it is associated with the adsorption of OH comes from ex situ photoemission measurements, which indicate that the Sn atoms are in a metallic state at potentials below 0.15VRHE, and an oxidised state at potentials above 0.28RHE. Specific adsorption of sulphate anions is not associated with the surface process since there is no evidence from photoemission of sulphate adsorption, and the same surface couple is observed in HClO4 electrolyte. A second surface redox couple, associated with further oxidation of the Sn sites in the alloy surfaces, is observed at 0.8VRHE/0.58VRHE. CO is adsorbed from solution at 300K, with saturation coverages of 0.37±0.05ML and 0.2±0.05ML, respectively. The adsorbed CO is oxidatively stripped at the potential coincident with the adsorption of hydroxide on the tin sites at the lower potential of 0.28VRHE. This strong promotional effect is unambiguously associated with the bi-functional mechanism. The Sn induced activation of water, and promotion of CO electro-oxidation, is sustained as long as the alloy structure remains intact, in the potential range below 0.5VRHE. The instability of the alloy surface at higher potentials is associated with the second redox couple. The redox behaviour at higher potentials is modified by the presence of CO in stripping experiments, with couples now observed at 0.78VRHE/0.56VRHE, and 0.9VRHE/0.70VRHE. This behaviour may be associated with enhanced oxidation through the exclusion of sulphate anions at the surface by CO. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Prentiss et al. (2003) have argued for a relatively recent, short (1600-1100 B.P.), and noncontinuous occupation of large villages and large housepits on the British Columbian Plateau. They argue that these developments resulted from climatically induced resource impoverishment in the region. I maintain that their database is inadequate for such conclusions and that their interpretations are in conflict with dates that 1 obtained from large housepits as well as with the distribution of early point styles (dating from 1200-4800 B.P.) that concentrate in the rim middens of large and medium-sized housepits. These data indicate that large villages and housepits that emerged by 2600 B.P., or earlier, were continuously occupied and corresponded more to the development of collector-based technologies rather than any climatic deteriorations or the introduction of the bow and arrow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several unusual wood and plant artifactual remains were recovered from the Keatley Creek site in the Interior of British Columbia. The most important of these is a charred fragment of a coiled basket recovered from a Protohistoric Period ritual structure dated to 250 BP. This is the only archaeological example of coiled basketry from the Interior, and such examples are extremely rare on the Coast also. While it may have served as a cooking or water container, we also suggest that it may have been a prestige item, possibly used in ritual contexts. The other artifacts described include a section of a wooden shaft implement like a bow or hoop frame dated to 1410 BP, and a bifacial stone knife from a storage pit that still retained a bark wrapping probably dating to ca. 1000 BP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Debates over the origin and influences of Indo-European languages and societies have fueled nationalistic passions over "ancestral homelands" as well as more recent attempts to categorize Indo-European language-speaking societies as patriarchal, violent, and disruptive of a Neolithic utopia in "Old Europe." While archaeological data is generally not abundant or refined enough to explain the distribution of Indo-European languages, it is possible to generalize that religions of herding societies demonstrate surprising similarities, be they the Nuer or the Masai in East Africa and the historical Indo-European cattle herders of the steppes. Their warrior groups adopt powerful wild animals as totems and form exclusive and independent social groups or classes, with their own deities, rituals, myths, and ritual leaders. Priestly elites also form a separate class, which strives to maintain dominant control over raids, spells, and initiations. Thus, in the pastoral nomad type of society, there is an evident conflict of interest between the major power-wielding sectors (warriors versus priestly elites) resulting in problems of integrating both social groups together, not to mention the people that do most of the herding and gardening. In this respect, religion can be adaptive in both defining special interest groups within a society and in integrating groups together. This represents a further politicization of religion, a tendency that began in the Upper Paleolithic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]