High-precision elements of double-lined spectroscopic binaries from combined interferometry and spectroscopy. Application to the beta Cephei star beta Centauri

We present methodology to derive high-precision estimates of the fundamental parameters of double-lined spectroscopic binaries. We apply the methods to the case study of the double-lined beta Cephei star beta Centauri. We also present a detailed analysis of beta Centauri's line-profile variations caused by its oscillations. We point out that a systematic error in the orbital amplitudes, and any quantities derived from them, occurs if the radial velocities of blended component lines are computed without spectral disentangling. This technique is an essential ingredient in the derivation of the physical parameters if the goal is to obtain a precision of only a few percent. We have devised iteration schemes to obtain the orbital elements for systems whose lines are blended throughout the orbital cycle. We find the following parameters for beta Cen: $M_1=10.7\pm 0.1 M_\odot$ and $M_2=10.3\pm 0.1 M_\odot$, an age of $(14.1\pm 0.6)\times 10^6$ years. We deduce two oscillation frequencies for the broad-lined primary of beta Centauri with degrees higher than 2. We propose that our iteration schemes be used in any future derivations of the spectroscopic orbital parameters of double-lined binaries with blended component lines to which disentangling can be successfully applied.Comment: 12 pages, 13 figures, accepted for publication in A&

Proceedings of HUSO 2016, The second international conference on human and social analytics

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Interpretation of the variability of the <i>β</i> Cephei star <i>λ</i> Scorpii. I. The multiple character

We derive accurate values of the orbital parameters of the close binary β Cephei star λ Scorpii. Moreover, we present the first determination of the properties of the triple system to which λ Scorpii belongs. Our analysis is based on a time series of 815 high-resolution spectra, covering a timespan of 14 years. We find a close orbit of 5d.9525days (e=0.26) and a wide orbit of approximately 1082d days (e=0.23). The orbital parameters of the triple star and a spectrum synthesis lead us to conclude that the system is composed of two early-type B stars and a low-mass pre-main-sequence star rather than containing an ultra-massive white dwarf as claimed before. Our proposed configuration is compatible with population synthesis. The radial velocity variations of the primary allow us to confirm the presence of at least one pulsation mode with frequency 4.679410 c d-1 which is subject to the light-time effect in the triple system. A detailed analysis of the complex line-profile variations is described in a subsequent paper

A Grid of FASTWIND NLTE Model Atmospheres of Massive Stars

In the last few years our knowledge of the physics of massive stars has improved tremendously. However, further investigations are still needed, especially regarding accurate calibrations of their fundamental parameters. To this end, we have constructed a comprehensive grid of NLTE model atmospheres and corresponding synthetic spectra in the massive star domain. The grid covers the complete B type spectral range, extended to late O on the hot side and early A on the cool side, from supergiants to dwarfs and from weak stellar winds to very strong ones. It has been calculated with the latest version of the FASTWIND code. The analysis of an extensive sample of OB stars in the framework of the COROT space mission will lead to accurate calibrations of effective temperatures, gravities, mass loss rates etc. This paper contains a detailed description of the grid, which has been baptised as BSTAR06 and which will be available for further research in the near future.Comment: 9 pages, 17 figures, to be published in ASP Conference Series, Proceeding of the Standardisation Workshop, held in Blankenberge on 8-11 Ma

Supporting the Essential Elements with CD-ROM Storybooks

CD-ROM storybooks can support the development of the five essential elements of reading instruction identified by The National Reading Panel: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Specific features inherent in these texts, audio pronunciation of text, embedded vocabulary definitions and animated graphics can be used to support readers\u27 development of various reading skills. In addition, the International Society for Technology in Education states that computer technology should be used with young children to build their technological skill and comfort level. The use of CD-ROM storybooks for instruction in the five essential elements is an effective means of incorporating technology in a meaningful way

Regression Models for Strength Assessment Method Selection and Performance Predictions

Please view abstract in the attached PDF file

Pure multiplicative stochastic resonance of anti-tumor model with seasonal modulability

The effects of pure multiplicative noise on stochastic resonance in an anti-tumor system modulated by a seasonal external field are investigated by using theoretical analyses of the generalized potential and numerical simulations. For optimally selected values of the multiplicative noise intensity quasi-symmetry of two potential minima and stochastic resonance are observed. Theoretical results and numerical simulations are in good quantitative agreement.Comment: 5 pages, 5 figure