This paper shows how to generalize to non-LTE polarization transfer some operator splitting methods that were originally developed for solving unpolarized transfer problems. These are the Jacobi-based accelerated Lambda-iteration (ALI) method of Olson, Auer, & Buchler and the iterative schemes based on Gauss-Seidel and successive overrelaxation

We present time-resolved optical spectroscopy of the cataclysmic variable S193. The emission lines are remarkably similar to those of V795 Her and exhibit high-velocity S-waves and complex absorptions that are modulated with the orbital period. Evidence for transient anomalous spectral features is seen during the first two nights of our run. We

We discuss the energy budget of AGN jets, based on available data for all 14 having detected optical synchrotron emission. Assuming equipartition between magnetic field and particle energy, these jets transport enough kinetic energy to power a typical extended radio lobe only if the bulk motion of the jet plasma is at least moderately relativistic

We present the lithium measurements of a continuing programme of light element abundances in metal-poor stars. New equivalent widths of the Li i lambda 670.8 nm resonance line in 67 metal-poor stars covering the metallicity range -3.5

An analysis of a new and extensive set of spectroscopic observations of the early-type binary system {AR Cas} , based also on spectral disentangling, has led to the discovery of the spectrum of the secondary star and of line-profile variations of the B4V primary star. A revised spectroscopic orbit based on these and published data is presented. We

There were predictions that blazar OJ 287 should have faded in late 1997 or early 1998. The observational background for these predictions is the sudden fade of OJ 287 in 1989. Back then, the radio flux decreased steadily for 4-5 months and then the brightness dropped also in the optical region suddenly for 2-3 weeks to all time low values, e.g. V