The signature inversion in the \pi h11/2 \otimes \nu h11/2 rotational bands
of odd-odd Cs and La isotopes and the \pi h11/2 \otimes \nu i13/2 bands of
odd-odd Tb, Ho and Tm nuclei is investigated using pairing and deformation self
consistent mean field calculations. The model can rather satisfactorily account
for the anomalous signature splitting, provided that spin assignments in som of
the bands are revised. Our calculations show that signature inversioncan appear
already at axially symmetric shapes. It is found that this is due to the
contribution of the \lambda\mu=22 component of the quadrupole pairing
interaction to the mean field potential.Comment: 17 pages, 14 figures, Nuclear Physics A in prin