bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Newer Anticonvulsants for the Treatment of Status Epilepticus
Authors: Farrokh Salia , Bon John , Erdman Michael , Tesoro Eljim
Published: February 2019

Status epilepticus (SE) has a high mortality rate and is one of the most common neurologic emergencies. Fast progression of this neurologic emergency and lack of response to traditional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in most cases has challenged clinicians to use new agents. This article evaluates the efficacy and safety of AEDs released to the market after 2000 for SE, refractory status epilepticus (RSE), and super‐refractory status epilepticus (SRSE). The PubMed database was searched for clinical trials published between January 2000 and July 2018 using the search terms status epilepticus, refractory status epilepticus, super refractory status epilepticus, brivaracetam, clobazam, cannabidiol, eslicarbazepine, lacosamide, perampanel, rufinamide, stiripentol, and zonisamide. Trials that evaluated these agents in adults with SE, RSE, and SRSE were included. Brivaracetam use was identified in two retrospective reviews with success rates of 27% and 57%. One unsuccessful case report of cannabidiol use in SE was found. Four clobazam studies were identified in SE and RSE with success rates ranging from 25–100%. No evidence for the use of eslicarbazepine and zonisamide was found. Using the search terms for lacosamide identified 38 articles: 1 systematic review, 5 prospective studies, 15 retrospective reviews, and 17 case reports. Success rates and dosing varied, but studies that included focal or partial types of SE showed higher success rates. Five articles were identified regarding perampanel use in this setting. Three were retrospective reviews with success rates ranging from 17–60%, and two were case reports. Only one case report regarding the use of rufinamide was found; rufinamide titrated up to 4.4 mg/day allowed discontinuation of barbiturate and clobazam. One case report and two case series of stiripentol were found with reported efficacy between 60% and 100% in SRSE. Evidence is currently insufficient to support the use of these agents in this setting.
Augmented Renal Clearance
Authors: Cook Aaron M. , Hatton‐Kolpek Jimmi
Published: February 2019

Augmented renal clearance (ARC) is a phenomenon in critically ill patients characterized by increased creatinine clearance and elimination of renally eliminated medications. Patients with severe neurologic injury, sepsis, trauma, and burns have been consistently identified as at risk of ARC, with mean creatinine clearances ranging from 170 ml/minute to more than 300 ml/minute. Several potential mechanisms may contribute to the occurrence of ARC including endogenous responses to increased metabolism and solute production, alterations in neurohormonal balance, and therapeutic maneuvers such as fluid resuscitation. Augmented renal clearance is associated with suboptimal exposure to critical medications, including β‐lactams and vancomycin, increasing the risk of treatment failure. Although definitive screening tools are not yet known, critical care pharmacists must be vigilant in recognizing when ARC may be a contributing factor affecting expected treatment outcomes in individual patients. Optimizing dosing strategies in critically ill patients with ARC remains a goal of continued research. The current review discusses the clinical characteristics and methods of identifying patients at risk of ARC, potential mechanisms for ARC, and describes pharmacotherapy dosing considerations in patients with ARC.
Investigations on Non‐isocyanate Based Reticulation of Glycidyl Azide Pre‐polymers
Authors: Araya‐Marchena Mario , St‐Charles Jean‐Christophe , Dubois Charles
Published: February 2019

Glycidyl azide polymers (GAP) are being used as energetic binders in explosives and propellant formulations. The elastomeric properties of the binder are normally given by a urethane‐based reticulation process involving isocyanate compounds. Alternatively, azides bearing polymers can be cured by reaction with dialkynes as a result of the so‐called “click chemistry” process. This work investigates the reaction kinetics of GAP with five different dialkynes: one ether, three esters and one alkane derivative. The reactivity parameters of these compounds towards low molecular weight GAP have been established, along with the corresponding exotherm for each curing reaction. In light of the energetic nature of GAP, these results will allow the use of the same dialkyne compounds on a larger scale by making it possible to predict the behavior of these reacting mixtures and to allow a safe control over their exothermic curing process.
Detection of oxytocin, atrial natriuretic peptide, and brain natriuretic peptide using novel imprinted polymers produced with amphiphilic monomers
Authors: Lin Chung‐Yin , Tsai Sheng‐Hung , Tai Dar‐Fu
Published: February 2019

The cystine‐bridged cyclic peptide hormones (CBCPHs) represent signature structural feature as well as unique biological activity. In this study, three CBCPHs have been identified and characterized, namely, oxytocin, atrial natriuretic peptides (ANPs), and brain natriuretic peptides (BNPs). Because research has shown that ANPs and BNPs are powerful diagnostic biomarkers for heart disease, a highly laudable endeavor would be to develop a novel sensor for detecting ANP or BNP levels. Therefore, an amphiphilic monomer Acr‐His‐NHNH‐Fmoc was synthesized to form molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for targeted CBCPH detection.

First, oxytocin, a cardiovascular hormone and a CBCPH, was used as a template to fabricate MIPs on quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) chips. On the other hand, fabricated selected ANP segment or BNP segment as an epitope is able to construct epitope‐mediated MIPs (EMIPs) for ANP or BNP.

The developed oxytocin or ANP sensor reached a detection limitation of 0.1nM with the dissociation constants being 30pM for oxytocin and 20pM for ANP. Moreover, BNP sensor achieved a detection limitation of 2.89pM with an even lower Kd value as 2pM. Compared with the performance of EMIPs, the imprinted films showed high affinity and selectivity in special binding to CBCPHs. The developed MIPs‐QCM biosensors thus provide an improved sensing platform using an amphiphilic monomer and may be useful for applications toward cyclotides, cystine knot motifs, or insulin‐like peptides.
A cubic quality loss function and its applications
Authors: Li Shuangshuang , Liu Xintian , Wang Yansong , Wang Xiaolan
Published: February 2019

The traditional quality evaluation method believed that when the product quality characteristic was within the specification limit, no loss was produced. Taguchi proposed that even if the characteristic was within the range of users' demand, the fluctuation of quality characteristic would still cause loss to users and society. Therefore, he proposed a quadratic quality loss function to describe this loss. The function was established based on the Taylor expansion. It neglected terms with powers higher than 2, which would cause a certain deviation between the calculated and true value. Moreover, the tolerance and loss in the quadratic loss function must satisfied specific relationship, which limited its use. In this paper, the Taylor expansion items are raised to third order. The quality loss coefficients are discussed and analyzed so that the cubic quality loss function is established. In addition, the method of calculating hidden quality cost is given by using the cubic loss function. The hidden quality cost is affected by the quality loss coefficients and should be a range. The cubic quality loss function studies the inapplicability of quadratic loss function, so it widens the scope of application of quality loss function.
Design, Synthesis and In‐Vitro Antitumor Activity of Lupeol Derivatives via Modification at C‐3 and C‐30 Positions
Authors: Saini Monika , Khan Mohammad Faheem , Sangwan Reetu , Khan Mohsin Ali , Kumar Ashok , Verma Ruchi , Ahamad Tanveer , Jain Sudha
Published: February 2019

Lupeol has been isolated from ethanol extract of stem bark of Bombax ceiba through normal phase column chromatography. Total fourteen derivatives of lupeol were synthesized and assayed for in vitro antitumor activities against MDA MB‐231, HeLa and A549 cell lines. In cell proliferation experiments, pyrimidine‐2(5H)‐thione derivative (15) was found to be most potent and significantly inhibited all three tested cancer cell lines i. e. MDA MB‐231 (IC50 27.13±2.13), HeLa (IC50 45.95±1.42) and A549 (IC50 46.27±0.9). The (2, 4‐dinitrophenyl) hydrazyl‐3‐lupeol Derivative (12) exhibited antitumor activity against MDA MB‐231 (IC50 35.88±1.9) and HeLa cells (IC50 31.91±1.6) whereas (2, 4‐dinitrophenyl)‐2H‐imidazole derivative (14) showed activity against MDA MB‐231 (IC50 38.05±1.9) and A549 (IC50 42.01±0.90) cells respectively. Structure activity relationship is also described. Our study showed that compound 15 exhibited promising activity against MDA MB‐231 and A549 cancer cell lines.
Magnetic Mesoporous SBA‐15 Functionalized with a NHC Pd(II) Complex: An Efficient and Recoverable Nanocatalyst for Hiyama Reaction
Authors: Nuri Ayat , Mansoori Yagoub , Bezaatpour Abolfazl , Shchukarev Andrey , Mikkola Jyri‐Pekka
Published: February 2019

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) were covered by a silica shell and then embedded into mesoporous silica (SBA‐15). Magnetic mesoporous silica (Fe3O4@SiO2‐SBA) was then reacted with 3‐chloropropyltriethoxysilane (CPTS), sodium salt of imidazole and 2‐bromopyridine to give Fe3O4@SiO2‐SBA functionalized with 3‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium‐propyl (PIP) as a supported pincer ligand for Pd(II). The functionalized magnetic mesoporous silica were then treated with t‐BuOK at −80 °C in THF and then reacted with [PdCl2(SMe2)2] to give supported Pd(II)‐carbene complex containing C,N‐bidentate ligand. The chloride ions were then exchanged by bromide ions using a NaBr solution of diethylether/acetone mixture. The prepared catalyst was characterized with, FT‐IR, thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area measurement (SBET), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX) and wide angle X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). The prepared magnetic catalyst was effectively used in the coupling reaction of triethoxyphenylsilane with aryl halides (Hiyama reaction) in the presence of a base. The reaction parameters such as solvents, amount of catalyst, base and temperature were optimized. The catalyst was then magnetically decanted, washed, and reused several times.
Nickel‐induced VEGF expression via regulation of Akt, ERK1/2, NFκB, and AMPK pathways in H460 cells
Authors: Wang Jui‐Chin , Chen Shih‐Yin , Wang Meilin , Ko Jiunn‐Liang , Wu Chieh‐Lin , Chen Ching‐Chung , Lin Hui‐Wen , Chang Yuan‐Yen
Published: February 2019

Prospective cohort studies have indicated that a highly nickel‐polluted environment may severely affect human health, resulting in such conditions as respiratory tract cancers. Such exposure can trigger vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. However, the signal transduction pathways leading to VEGF induction by nickel compounds are not well understood. This study revealed the occurrence of VEGF induction in human non‐small‐cell lung cancer H460 cells exposed to NiCl2. Moreover, exposing H460 cells to NiCl2 activated extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK), nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB), and protein kinase B (Akt) as well as downregulated AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) expression. The mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and ERK inhibitor significantly blocked NiCl2‐induced ERK activation and VEGF production. Pretreating H460 cells with a PI3K/Akt inhibitor substantially inhibited NiCl2‐induced VEGF expression and reduced Akt, ERK, and NFκB phosphorylation. Furthermore, 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleoside‐induced AMPK activation improved VEGF expression in NiCl2‐treated H460 cells significantly. These results indicate that NiCl2 induces VEGF production through Akt, ERK, NFκB activation and AMPK suppression and mediates various types of pathophysiological angiogenesis.
Computational communication research
Authors: Matei Sorin A. , Kee Kerk F.
Published: February 2019

The article advances a new way to think about computational research, in general, and computational communication research, in particular. Contrary to current definitions of “computational science,” which emphasizes its inductive nature, we define computational research as an incomplete inductive process, blending both theoretical and data‐driven methods of discovery. Communication theory needs to be driven by a clear concept of human needs and abilities, recovering and extending known theoretical insights from mass and interpersonal communication research. The definition we propose for computational communication research has a practical implication. Relying on theory, the definition demands to identify specific processes and domains within the field of computational communication research. The processes include communication production, behavior, and effects. The domains include collaboration, trust, and data storytelling and journalism, while the methods include content and network analyses. The article starts with a broad definition of the “computational” approach, using the Johari window. We continue with a typology of computational communication research, which blends reviews of foundational texts with summaries of leading research. In the conclusions, we discuss the strengths and identify new opportunities in the field of computational communication research.

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Human Centricity and User Interaction

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Social Considerations

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Big Data Mining
Recent advancement of light‐based single‐molecule approaches for studying biomolecules
Authors: Croop Benjamin , Zhang Chenyi , Lim Youngbin , Gelfand Ryan M. , Han Kyu Young
Published: February 2019

Recent advances in single‐molecule techniques have led to new discoveries in analytical chemistry, biophysics, and medicine. Understanding the structure and behavior of single biomolecules provides a wealth of information compared to studying large ensembles. However, developing single‐molecule techniques is challenging and requires advances in optics, engineering, biology, and chemistry. In this paper, we will review the state of the art in single‐molecule applications with a focus over the last few years of development. The advancements covered will mainly include light‐based in vitro methods, and we will discuss the fundamentals of each with a focus on the platforms themselves. We will also summarize their limitations and current and future applications to the wider biological and chemical fields.

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Imaging

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Macromolecular Interactions, Methods

Analytical and Computational Methods > Analytical Methods
Cyclic Tribismuthide as a Piano Stool Complex Ligand – Synthesis and Crystal Structure of (η3‐Bi3)M(CO)33– (M = Cr, Mo)
Authors: Kaas Marina , Korber Nikolaus
Published: February 2019

The reactions between K5Bi4, [(C6H6)Cr(CO)3] or [(C7H8)Mo(CO)3], and [2.2.2]crypt in liquid ammonia yielded the compounds [K([2.2.2]crypt)]3(η3‐Bi3)M(CO)3·10NH3 (M = Cr, Mo), which crystallize isostructurally in P21/n. Both contain an 18 valence electron piano‐stool complex with a η3‐coordinated Bi3‐ring ligand. The Bi–Bi distances range from 2.9560(5) to 2.9867(3) Å and are slightly shorter than known Bi–Bi single bonds but longer than Bi–Bi double bonds. The newly found compounds complete the family of similar complexes with E3‐ring ligands (E = P‐Bi).
Searching for production of dark matter in association with top quarks at the LHC
Authors: Haisch Ulrich , Polesello Giacomo
Published: February 2019

Abstract

In the framework of spin-0 s-channel dark matter (DM) simplified models, we reassess the sensitivity of future LHC runs to the production of DM in association with top quarks. We consider two different missing transverse energy (E

T

miss
) signatures, namely production of DM in association with either a

$$ t\overline{t} $$

t

t
¯

pair or a top quark and a W boson, where the latter channel has not been the focus of a dedicated analysis prior to this work. Final states with two leptons are studied and a realistic analysis strategy is developed that simultaneously takes into account both channels. Compared to other existing search strategies the proposed combination of

$$ t\overline{t}+{E}_T^{\mathrm{miss}} $$

t

t
¯

+

E
T
miss

and tW + E

T

miss
production provides a significantly improved coverage of the parameter space of spin-0 s-channel DM simplified models.
Responses to losses in high-deductible health insurance: persistence, emotions, and rationality
Authors: PAULY MARK V. , KUNREUTHER HOWARD
Published: February 2019

There have been few empirical studies on how consumers respond to their loss experience over time when choosing between high- and low-deductible health insurance plans. To address this question, we designed a ten-period web-based experiment to explore how subjects respond to the presence or absence of illness-related costs in a given period when making their future health insurance choices when they are explicitly informed that future premiums or loss probabilities will not change over time. A sizable minority of the respondents who initially chose high-deductible plans switched after a loss, and switching is more likely if they self-report negative emotional responses to experiencing an uninsured loss. Switching from low- to high-deductible plans is less likely and less responsive to loss experience. The study reveals that many individuals make their health insurance choices by considering factors not included in classical economic models of choice.
Is the Hypointensity in Motor Cortex the Hallmark of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Authors: Boll Marie Catherine , Marrufo Meléndez Oscar René , Rios Camilo , Maciel Zenil Jesus , de Alba Yara
Published: February 2019

Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease that targets motor neurons. Upper motor neurons degeneration is pathologically characterized by brain iron accumulation. Signal attenuation in the shape of a ribbon at the posterior border of the precentral gyrus can be observed on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences including T2-weighted sequence. Methods: With the aim to know the qualities of this potential marker of ALS, we conducted a prospective study. Patients with definite ALS in the age range of 40–70 years and healthy controls underwent 3T brain MRI using a standardized sequence. A second MRI was performed 18 months later under the same conditions in the patients with ALS. Results: Most of the patients with ALS (91.66%) exhibited a “black ribbon” (BR) with an average area of 79.98 mm3. Signal attenuation discriminated ALS with a mean value of 63.97 arbitrary units (AU) on the left BR (95% CI: 60.67–67.27), a mean value of 59.15 AU (95% CI: 54.78–63.53) on the right BR, and a significant difference with control subjects presenting a mean value of 107.85 AU (p < 0.001). The optimal cut-off point for differentiating patients with ALS from controls (sensitivity, 0.92; specificity, 0.93) was 83 AU. Forced vital capacity and muscle strength in the contralateral upper extremity were significantly correlated with the ribbon intensity in ALS. Patients who underwent a second study exhibited significant changes in the BR related to the rapid evolution of the disease. Conclusions: This marker represents a valuable tool for the selection of candidates and their follow-up in clinical trials.
Clinical Features of Lewis–Sumner Syndrome: Can Trauma Precipitate Symptoms?
Authors: Hughes Isaac Michael William , Goodridge Alan Edward
Published: February 2019

Introduction: Lewis–Sumner syndrome (LSS) is a demyelinating peripheral neuropathy described in 1982. Methods: We reviewed the charts of nine LSS patients in neurological care for their symptoms, response to different treatment regimens, and pattern of nerve involvement. Results: One patient had an Adie’s pupil. Every patient studied had median nerve involvement. Seven of nine patients required intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy and all showed improvement with IVIg. Four of nine patients received oral steroid therapy and had some improvement. Two of nine patients received azathioprine to little effect. Two of nine patients experienced significant trauma while receiving neurological follow-up and their symptoms worsened to a clinically significant degree afterward. Discussion: We noticed a possible association between trauma and symptom severity in cases of LSS with preexisting neurological follow-up. We hypothesize that physical trauma exacerbates LSS. To our knowledge, this is an unreported phenomenon.
NOTE ON SUMS INVOLVING THE EULER FUNCTION
Authors: CHERN SHANE
Published: February 2019

In this note, we provide refined estimates of two sums involving the Euler totient function, $$\begin{eqnarray}\mathop{\sum }_{n\leq x}\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}\biggl(\biggl[\frac{x}{n}\biggr]\biggr)\quad \text{and}\quad \mathop{\sum }_{n\leq x}\frac{\unicode[STIX]{x1D719}([x/n])}{[x/n]},\end{eqnarray}$$ where $[x]$ denotes the integral part of real $x$. The above summations were recently considered by Bordellès et al. [‘On a sum involving the Euler function’, Preprint, 2018, arXiv:1808.00188] and Wu [‘On a sum involving the Euler totient function’, Preprint, 2018, hal-01884018].
GLOBAL EXISTENCE OF WEAK SOLUTIONS FOR STRONGLY DAMPED WAVE EQUATIONS WITH NONLINEAR BOUNDARY CONDITIONS AND BALANCED POTENTIALS
Authors: SHOMBERG JOSEPH L.
Published: February 2019

We demonstrate the global existence of weak solutions to a class of semilinear strongly damped wave equations possessing nonlinear hyperbolic dynamic boundary conditions. The associated linear operator is$(-\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{W})^{\unicode[STIX]{x1D703}}\unicode[STIX]{x2202}_{t}u$, where$\unicode[STIX]{x1D703}\in [\frac{1}{2},1)$and$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E5}_{W}$is the Wentzell–Laplacian. A balance condition is assumed to hold between the nonlinearity defined on the interior of the domain and the nonlinearity on the boundary. This allows for arbitrary (supercritical) polynomial growth of each potential, as well as mixed dissipative/antidissipative behaviour.
APPROXIMATIONS OF SUBHOMOGENEOUS ALGEBRAS
Authors: SHULMAN TATIANA , UUYE OTGONBAYAR
Published: February 2019

Let $n$ be a positive integer. A $C^{\ast }$-algebra is said to be $n$-subhomogeneous if all its irreducible representations have dimension at most $n$. We give various approximation properties characterising $n$-subhomogeneous $C^{\ast }$-algebras.
Africanization in British Multinationals in Ghana and Nigeria, 1945–1970
Authors: Decker Stephanie
Published: February 2019

Multinationals experienced significant legitimacy challenges in less-developed countries between 1945 and 1970. Corporate responses to these challenges cover three distinct periods. Unsuccessful postwar attempts focusing on colonial welfare concerns were followed by pragmatic endeavors intended to repair corporate reputations by Africanizing senior management. By the 1960s, this had become a common approach to legitimization. The challenges of Africanizing ethnocentric multinationals led to organizational changes: internationally diversified multinationals were better able to decentralize subsidiary management, while the late 1960s saw regionally focused multinationals absorbed by more diversified multinationals. Organizational survival was directly linked to legitimacy advantages derived from Africanization.
A joint study of whole exome sequencing and structural MRI analysis in major depressive disorder
Authors: Zhang Yamin , Li Mingli , Wang Qiang , Hsu Jacob Shujui , Deng Wei , Ma Xiaohong , Ni Peiyan , Zhao Liansheng , Tian Yang , Sham Pak Chung , Li Tao
Published: February 2019

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide and influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. Genetic studies of MDD have focused on common variants and have been constrained by the heterogeneity of clinical symptoms.

Methods

We sequenced the exome of 77 cases and 245 controls of Han Chinese ancestry and scanned their brain. Burden tests of rare variants were performed first to explore the association between genes/pathways and MDD. Secondly, parallel Independent Component Analysis was conducted to investigate genetic underpinnings of gray matter volume (GMV) changes of MDD.

Results

Two genes (CSMD1, p = 5.32×10−6; CNTNAP5, p = 1.32×10−6) and one pathway (Neuroactive Ligand Receptor Interactive, p = 1.29×10−5) achieved significance in burden test. In addition, we identified one pair of imaging-genetic components of significant correlation (r = 0.38, p = 9.92×10−6). The imaging component reflected decreased GMV in cases and correlated with intelligence quotient (IQ). IQ mediated the effects of GMV on MDD. The genetic component enriched in two gene sets, namely Singling by G-protein coupled receptors [false discovery rate (FDR) q = 3.23×10−4) and Alzheimer Disease Up (FDR q = 6.12×10−4).

Conclusions

Both rare variants analysis and imaging–genetic analysis found evidence corresponding with the neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity hypotheses of MDD. The mediation of IQ indicates that genetic component may act on MDD through GMV alteration and cognitive impairment.
Wide Field Imaging and Photometry by 2k × 2k CCD
Authors: Chen J.-S.
Published: February 2019

The Ford Aerospace 2048 × 2048 CCD with UV coating is used at the BAO 60/90
cm f/3 Schmidt telescope focal plane, giving a field-of-view of about one square
degree and spatial resolution of 1.67 arcsecond per pixel. The paper reviews the
following topics:

1)

basic performance of the system;

2)

anti-blooming technique for a large field CCD;

3)

flat fielding for a large field CCD;

4)

photometric properties of compressed images.
Very Wide-Field Monitoring of the Sky
Authors: Hudec R. , Soldán J.
Published: February 2019

There is a need for very wide-field monitoring of the sky in several branches
of astronomy and astrophysics, ranging from meteor research to monitoring of
optical transients and counterparts to gamma ray burst sources. The photographic
very wide-field monitoring of the sky is run at the Ondřejov Observatory and other
stations of the Czech Meteor Network and is sensitive enough to record stars up to
11 mag on 3–4 h exposures or 1-s flashes up to 3.0 mag over a field-of-view of 180
deg. diameter. A CCD device for very wide-field monitoring is also in development
with sensitivity of 5.0 mag for 1-s flashes (and 10 mag for stars with 100 s
exposure) over a field-of-view of 50 × 60 degrees. Both systems are briefly
described and discussed.
Mouse: A Mini Observatory for UV Space Exploration of the Galactic Poles and
Equator
Authors: Ragazzoni R. , Buson L. , Turatto M. , Bianchini A. , Cappellaro E. , Cecconi M. , Franca F. La , Munari U. , Ortolani S. , Porro I. , Rafanelli P. , Stagni R. , Bertola F. , Bernacca P.L.
Published: February 2019

The small orbiting observatory MOUSE is described in its essential features.
Insights in the optical solution (a 2 mirrors 3 reflections telescope using pure
hyperbolical surfaces, no aspherics) are given which fit such type of optical
layout to scientific requirements. An in-flight recentering of the photons
collected by a solar-blind photon counter device will allow for an equivalent
angular resolution of 2–3 arcsec over a field-of-view exceeding one square degree.
The capabilities of the proposed satellite (imaging, low resolution grisms,
polarizers) are described. The choice of the selected sky areas (the two Galactic
Poles, the galactic equator and some Bulge Windows) is justified in terms of
forefront astrophysical scientific objectives requiring imaging in UV over large
fields. The science comprises UV analysis of a complete sample of QSOs, stellar
population in galaxies, White Dwarfs, Globular and Open Clusters and OB
Associations. In addition a plan for the early UV detection of Supernova events is
described.
Glazar-2: A Wide-Field Camera Aboard the MIR Space Station
Authors: Tovmassian H.M. , Khodjayants Y.M. , Krmoyan M.N. , Isadjanian R.V. , Gasparian O.N. , Zakharian A.Z. , Huguenin D.
Published: February 2019

In 1987 the UV imaging telescope Glazar
(Tovmassian et al. 1988) was launched to the Mir Space
Station. Its sensitivity was lower than was expected. For this reason the UV
survey of the sky was not done and only observations of OB stellar associations
were made. The fields of about 15 stellar associations and of the Large Magellanic
Cloud were observed. Only images of O, B or early A type stars were obtained on
the Glazar photographs at 1640 å. The observations
allowed the detection of an average ∼ 15 % new, unknown OB type stars in each of
the observed fields, the discovery of hot unknown components of some late type
stars and a detailed study of the distribution of stars in space. Some new,
unknown OB stellar associations were discovered and more correct distances of
stellar associations were determined. The distribution of the absorbing matter was
also studied. New, B-type stellar associations, named B were discovered.
CCD Imaging by a 1° Field
Authors: Dettmar R.-J. , Skiff B.A. , Xilouris K.M.
Published: February 2019

At most research telescopes, the physical size of CCDs currently still
restricts the accessible field-of-view. However, for galactic as well as
extragalactic work a field significantly larger than the typical 15′ is needed to
study objects with large angular extent. In particular, this is desirable for
objects that are well studied in other wavelength regimes such as the radio or
FIR. High quality surface photometry of structures ≥ 40′ can be obtained by using
CCDs with telescopes of short focal lengths.
Digital Image Processing and CCD Imaging at Gothard Astrophysical
Observatory
Authors: Jankovics I. , Kovács J. , Vincze I.J.
Published: February 2019

The Gothard Astrophysical Observatory of Loránd Eötvös University was founded
in 1881 by Eugene von Gothard, the first astronomer in the world who took a photo
of the central star of Ring nebula. After nearly 80 years interregnum, the
observatory was revitalized by Eötvös University in 1992 and its equipment is used
both for education and for research.
A Flair for Multi-Object Spectroscopy
Authors: Parker Q.A. , Watson F.G.
Published: February 2019

Unique in the regime of wide-field astronomy is the multi-object spectroscopy
system ‘FLAIR’ developed for the UK Schmidt Telescope (UKST). The current system
can perform simultaneous observations of ∼ 90 objects across 40 sq. degrees of
sky. FLAIR has given a whole new platform for performing astronomical observations
with a Schmidt telescope in a non-photographic role. The system is simple to
operate, highly stable, easy to interchange with standard photography and
outclasses single-object spectroscopy systems on 2.0 m class telescopes for many
types of observation. The system has continued to be developed to enhance its
flexibility, robustness and versatility, culminating recently in the commissioning
of new fibre feeds and formats. The facility to observe independent standard
stars, and the capability of observing objects in two UKST fields in a single
night has recently been demonstrated. FLAIR is a powerful, cost-effective addition
to the instrumental repertoire of the Anglo-Australian Observatory in a way that
was not even remotely envisaged when the UKST was built.
Newly Developed Diffraction Limited Optics up to 180 Degrees Object
Field
Authors: Gallert F.
Published: February 2019

In the last three years the author has developed a number of diffraction
limited optics. Some of these are the contents of this paper.
Photographic Wide-Field Imaging from Schmidt Plates — I
Authors: Heyer H.H. , Quebatte J. , Zodet H.
Published: February 2019

The recent years have seen a clear trend in observational astronomy towards
digital detectors, but they are only able to cover sky fields which are
significantly smaller than what is possible with photographic plates. In
consequence, there has been a tendency to concentrate on small sky areas and
individual objects. Nevertheless, many large-scale structures can only be well
comprehended if the observed fields are much larger than such CCD-frames.
Similarly, the use of more than one passband adds important information for a
better understanding of the nature of large structures. We demonstrate this by
showing here a two-field composite of IC 1396 (Palomar/ESO Atlas), and a
four-field composite from the ESO R-Atlas, covering an area of more than 100
square degrees around IC 4628 in Scorpius/Ara.
Photographic Wide-Field Imaging from Schmidt Plates — II
Authors: Zodet H. , Quebatte J. , Heyer H.-H.
Published: February 2019

For this work, we used the red plates of POSS II fields 340 and 115 which
show the impressive wide-field areas around the IC 1795/1805 complex (Plate 1) and
Gamma Cygni (Plate 2). The applied photographic method aims at the simultaneous
enhancing of very faint features and compression of the dynamic range, so that all
features become visible on the same print.
Microspots on IIIa- Emulsions: New Results
Authors: Tritton S.B. , Morgan D.H. , Cranston M.R.
Published: February 2019

This paper continues the investigations carried out at the Royal Observatory
Edinburgh into the microspot problem affecting Kodak Spectroscopic plates taken
with the UK 1.2m Schmidt Telescope (UKST) at Siding Spring Observatory (SSO). Over
10,000 plate inspections have been made since the previous report. Analysis of all
the available data shows that UKST plates on IIIa- emulsions processed up to
January 1991 continue to show evidence of microspot contamination. Various changes
to the processing procedures are listed and the effects on spot formation are
analyzed. The effectiveness of Rapid Selenium Toner in the original processing
line and post-processing is discussed.
Digitization Programs at STScI
Authors: Lasker B.M.
Published: February 2019

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) continues with its programs of
digitization, cataloging and data distribution. These were defined earlier, at the
Geneva and the Edinburgh workshops (Jaschek 1989; MacGillivray & Thomson
1992), and this report, by necessity of space, is incremental upon them.
Cataloging the Northern Sky Using a New Generation of Software
Technology
Authors: Weir N. , Djorgovski S. , Fayyad U. , Smith J.D. , Roden J.
Published: February 2019

We have developed a system, called SKICAT, for producing, managing and
analyzing catalogs from the digitized POSS-II survey. The system classifies and
matches catalogs from multiple, overlapping plate scans as well as CCD calibration
sequences; and it can be used for the scientific analysis of the resulting
catalogs. It incorporates a number of novel machine-learning and AI tools,
including the star/galaxy classification using decision tree algorithms. This
results in star/galaxy separation accurate to 90% or better down to
B

J
∼ 21
m
, i.e. ∼ 1
m
above the plate limit The final catalog is expected to contain at
least 5 × 107 galaxies and > 2 ×
109 stars. We present preliminary results on galaxy counts
from a test region near the NGP. We find a mild excess over the no-evolution
models, smaller than previously found by the APM group. A search for
z > 4 quasars and the two-point correlation
analysis of this data set are in progress.
Faint Object Classification Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Serra-Ricart M.
Published: February 2019

Artificial Neural Network techniques are applied to the classification of
faint objects, detected in digital astronomical images, and a Bayesian classifier
(the neural network classifier, NNC hereafter) is proposed. This classifier can be
implemented using a feedforward multilayered neural network trained by the
back-propagation procedure (Werbos 1974).
Recent Developments in the Work on Automated Spectral Classification by Means
of Objective Prism Spectra
Authors: Malyuto V. , Shvelidze T.
Published: February 2019

Some years ago a complex programme of studying the main meridional section of
the Galaxy was started by astronomers of Kiev, Tartu, Abastumani and Vilnius
Observatories with the aim of improving our knowledge of spatial and kinematic
characteristics of stellar populations. Characteristic to the programme is the use
of absolute proper motions of stars together with automated quantitative spectral
classification for large stellar-statistical samples. The data are gathered in
areas lying within 30° of the main meridional section of the Galaxy. To classify
stars, objective prism stellar spectra of intermediate dispersion (166 å/mm at
Hγ), obtained with the 70 cm meniscus telescope at
the Abastumani Astrophysical Observatory, are used. The field diameter is 4° 50′,
and the limiting photographical stellar magnitude is about 12
m
. Our system of automated quantitative spectral classification of F-K
stars applies criteria evaluation and is mainly based on two software packages:
the SDR package for spectrometric data reduction and the CTATEC-2 package
determining the linear regression model used for classification (Malyuto &
Shvelidze 1989; Malyuto, Pelt & Shvelidze 1993).
An Extended Scheme of Spectral Classification for Objective Prism
Spectra
Authors: Hantzios P.A. , Kontizas E. , Pasian F. , Dapergolas A. , Kontizas M. , Smareglia R.
Published: February 2019

A spectral classification scheme has been developed for objective prism
spectra of LMC stars, taken with the 1.2 m UK Schmidt Telescope in Australia.
Various line ratios, discontinuities, and continuum intensities have been used as
criteria. The scheme is a 2-D system (spectral type — luminosity class), and the
criteria are given in graphical form. The typical accuracy of our scheme is 2
subdivisions of spectral type. Comparison of our types with those given by other
authors for common stars yields a very good correlation with deviations within our
accuracy.
Astrometry by Wide-Field Telescopes in the Abastumani Astrophysical
Observatory
Authors: Kiladze R.I. , Chanturiya S.M.
Published: February 2019

For the past 30 years purposeful, highly accurate photographic observations
have been carried on in Abastumani to solve a series of astrometric problems. The
principal observational instruments are a 70 cm Maksutov system mirror telescope —
AS-32 (F = 2100 mm) and a 40 cm double Zeiss astrograph (F = 3000 mm).
Photometric Calibration and Large-Scale Clustering in the Universe
Authors: Fong R. , Metcalfe N. , Shanks T.
Published: February 2019

The machine measurements of UK Schmidt plates have produced two very large
galaxy surveys, the APM survey and the Edinburgh-Durham Southern Galaxy Catalogue
(or COSMOS survey). These surveys can constrain the power on large scales of ≳
10h
−1 Mpc better than current redshift surveys, simply because
such large numbers, ≳ 2 million galaxies to bJ
≤ 20.5, provide very high signal/noise in the estimated two-point
correlation function for galaxies. Furthermore, the results for the
three-dimensional galaxy two point correlation function,
ξ(r), obtained from the measured projected function,
ω(θ), should be quite robust for reasonable model number-redshift distributions,
N(z), for these magnitude
limits (see, e.g., Roche et al. 1993). Another clear advantage of measuring ω(θ)
is that it is unaffected by the peculiar velocities of the galaxies, whereas they
have an important effect on the corresponding ξ,(s)
using galaxy redshift surveys.
Intensity Calibration in the Presence of a Disturbing Effect Dependent on
Wavelength
Authors: Kotrč P.
Published: February 2019

Conversion of light detector signals to intensity values is one of the most
important factors influencing precision of spectroscopic observations. Most of the
classical light detectors used in astronomical practice are more or less
nonlinear. As the photoemulsion has long been the most widespread nonlinear light
detector, many improvements in the calibration methods concerned its nonlinearity.
In addition to it, there are other substantial sources of inaccuracy in the
calibration process of real astronomical images and spectrograms. They are mostly
related to real light conditions in telescopes and spectrographs, as well as to
the wavelength dependent sensitivity of light detectors. Some of these factors can
be taken into account and involved in the calibration process. Similar effects are
considered when a flat-field is evaluated for CCD detectors or when image
structure varies over a photographic plate.
The Future of Memory: Archiving Astronomical Information
Authors: Kurtz M.J.
Published: February 2019

The function of astronomers is to capture and create information and send it
into the future. The vehicle for this transmission of knowledge is the archive.
The digital revolution is quickly rendering our paper and glass archives obsolete;
great challenges exist in creating archive systems for digital data. We can only
meet these challenges by substantial shared effort.
The WG WFI Plate Database (WFPDB): Present Status
Authors: Tsvetkov M.K. , Stavrev K.Y. , Tsvetkova K.P. , Ivanov P.V. , Iliev M.S.
Published: February 2019

The present status of the work on the creation of a Wide-Field Plate Database
is reported. It is planned to collect the available information for about 1.5
million plates from 187 wide-field instruments in 71 institutes/observatories. The
source data are from 213 plate catalogues, 65 of them in computer-readable form.
The structure and content of the Wide-Field Plate Database, now including 51
observation catalogues with more than 300,000 plates, is presented.
The Plate Archive of the Tautenburg Schmidt Telescope
Authors: Ziener R.
Published: February 2019

The Karl-Schwarzschild-Observatorium, about 15 km away from Jena in the
Tautenburg forest at 330 m above sea level, was founded in 1960. The
2m-Universal-Telescope contains three optical systems: Schmidt, Cassegrain and
Coudé. The spherical primary mirror consists of Sitall (a Russian ceramic
glass).
Catalogue of the Rozhen Observatory Schmidt Telescope
Authors: Mutafov A. , Ilcheva P. , Kusheva M. , Michailov M. , Borisov Z. , Lazarov N.
Published: February 2019

We present the results from the analysis of the machine-readable version of
the log book for the 50/70 cm Schmidt telescope of the National Astronomical
Observatory (NAO) Rozhen of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. The telescope began
operating in 1979, after it was repaired and transferred from the Potsdam
Observatory where it had operated since 1952.
Asteroid and Comet Surveys
Authors: Marsden B.G.
Published: February 2019

Past surveys are described in the logical sequence of (1) comets visually,
(2) asteroids visually, (3) asteroids photographically and (4) comets
photographically. Plots show the evolution of asteroid surveys in terms of visual
discovery magnitude and ecliptic latitude, and similarities and differences
between surveys for the different types of body are discussed. The paper ends with
a brief discussion of more recent discovery methods and some thoughts on the
future.
Deep Multi-Colour Starcounts
Authors: Reid I.N. , Majewski S.R.
Published: February 2019

Starcounts remain one of the most effective methods of probing the structure
of the Galactic stellar populations. However, studies of the distribution at large
distances above the Plane demand accurate photometry extending to faint magnitudes
(V > 20), and such datasets are still rare.
We (Reid & Majewski 1993) have analyzed data from one field — Majewski's
(1992) UJF observations of SA57, the North Galactic Pole field. Our results
revealed significant discrepancies with the standard model of the Galaxy (see
refs. in Reid & Majewski), notably a paucity in the number of halo stars
by a factor of two and the presence of a factor of two more disk stars than
predicted — sufficient stars that the disk is the majority stellar population,
outnumbering halo stars 2:1 even at V = 21. Majewski et
al. (1993) has obtained UJFN photographic data for several other fields, and Fig.
1 shows a preliminary comparison of these observations with the predictions of the
best-fitting SA57 model. Given that none of the parameters have been modified, the
agreement is surprisingly good.
A Complete, Multicolour Survey of Absolute Proper Motions in the Anticentre
Direction at Intermediate Latitude: Kinematics of the Galaxy's Stellar
Populations
Authors: Ojha D.K. , Bienaymé O. , Robin A.C.
Published: February 2019

We present the observational results of UBV photometry and absolute proper
motions in the anticentre direction at intermediate latitude
(l = 167.5°, b = 47.4°)
for an 8.6 square degree field. The sample is complete down to V = 17, and the
accuracy of the proper motions is better than per century for
stars brighter than V = 16. It is attempted here to make an investigation of the
structure and kinematics of the Galaxy from absolute proper motions. Details of
the present work can be found elsewhere (Ojha et al. 1993).
Orbits of Galactic Globular Clusters from Schmidt Plate Astrometry
Authors: Odenkirchen M. , Scholz R.-D. , Irwin M.J.
Published: February 2019

We present results from orbit integrations for the globular clusters M 3 and
M 92. Absolute proper motions recently measured from Tautenburg Schmidt plates and
a three-component mass model for the Galaxy have been used to derive the galactic
orbits of these clusters. Orbital parameters and the influence of observational
uncertainties on the determination of the orbits are discussed.
Qualitative Analysis of the Stellar Content in LMC Clusters and Fields Using
Objective Prism Schmidt Plates
Authors: Kontizas E. , Dapergolas A. , Xiradaki E. , Kontizas M.
Published: February 2019

The distribution of spectral types in 64 LMC globular clusters and their
adjoining fields have been studied.
Surveys of Low Surface Brightness Galaxies by 4415 Films
Authors: Phillipps S. , Parker Q.A.
Published: February 2019

During the past few years there have been a number of surveys for low surface
brightness galaxies (LSBGs). Searches using both photographic and CCD data have
shown that LSBGs are actually very numerous (Impey, Bothun & Malin 1987;
Irwin et al. 1990). However, they are seriously biased against in any random sky
survey, and even in a cluster area there are inherent size and signal-to-noise
problems. The number of objects we can detect are therefore limited in two
ways.
Automatic Detection of Low-Surface Brightness Galaxies on Digital
Images
Authors: Smith R.M. , Privett G.J. , Phillipps S. , Davies J.I.
Published: February 2019

Algorithms employed to identify and quantify images on digitised images
mostly employ contiguous-pixel (e.g. PISA [based on APM software by Irwin {1985}])
or median-filtering techniques and thus miss extended low surface-brightness
features. Searches for low surface brightness galaxies (LSBGs) have therefore so
far concentrated on eye-ball searches of Schmidt survey plates. To overcome the
subjectiveness of eyeball searches and eliminate the inherent problems in current
object-detection algorithms we have investigated other techniques.
Surface Photometry of Low-Surface-Brightness Galaxies in the Area of the NGC
972 Group of Galaxies
Authors: Vennik J. , Richter G.M.
Published: February 2019

A nearby group of galaxies, centred on NGC 972 and conspicuously rich in
faint dwarf spheroidal galaxies, has been investigated photometrically on B and V
plates obtained with the Tautenburg 2m Schmidt telescope. For six low surface
brightness galaxies, the equivalent B- and V-brightness profiles have been
extracted, and asymptotic magnitudes and mean colours have been estimated. Their
equivalent profiles are well fitted by modified isothermal (King) models.