And the recent spate of sleaze stories involving ministers (parliamentary authorities are investigating the second-home claims of Tony McNulty, a welfare minister, and of Ms Smith herself) is not the only reason why Mr Brown is making only modest gains in the polls.

ECONOMIST: Expenses-gate

"We cannot say that Ms. Vorontsova was the only reason why it happened, " Tatyana Stukalova said.

NPR: Dancer Admits Being Behind Bolshoi Chief Attack

High ownership costs are a main reason why only one hybrid--the Toyota Prius--made our list.

FORBES: Vehicles