Wavelets: a powerful tool for studying rotation, activity, and pulsation in Kepler and CoRoT stellar light curves

Aims. The wavelet transform has been used as a powerful tool for treating several problems in astrophysics. In this work, we show that the time-frequency analysis of stellar light curves using the wavelet transform is a practical tool for identifying rotation, magnetic activity, and pulsation signatures. We present the wavelet spectral composition and multiscale variations of the time series for four classes of stars: targets dominated by magnetic activity, stars with transiting planets, those with binary transits, and pulsating stars. Methods. We applied the Morlet wavelet (6th order), which offers high time and frequency resolution. By applying the wavelet transform to the signal, we obtain the wavelet local and global power spectra. The first is interpreted as energy distribution of the signal in time-frequency space, and the second is obtained by time integration of the local map. Results. Since the wavelet transform is a useful mathematical tool for nonstationary signals, this technique applied to Kepler and CoRoT light curves allows us to clearly identify particular signatures for different phenomena. In particular, patterns were identified for the temporal evolution of the rotation period and other periodicity due to active regions affecting these light curves. In addition, a beat-pattern signature in the local wavelet map of pulsating stars over the entire time span was also detected.Comment: Accepted for publication on A&

Aspects of U-duality in BLG models with Lorentzian metric 3-algebras

In our previous paper, it was shown that BLG model based on a Lorentzian metric 3-algebra gives Dp-brane action whose worldvolume is compactified on torus T^d (d=p-2). Here the 3-algebra was a generalized one with d+1 pairs of Lorentzian metric generators and expressed in terms of a loop algebra with central extensions. In this paper, we derive the precise relation between the coupling constant of the super Yang-Mills, the moduli of T^d and some R-R flux with VEV's of ghost fields associated with Lorentzian metric generators. In particular, for d=1, we derive the Yang-Mills action with theta term and show that SL(2,Z) Montonen-Olive duality is realized as the rotation of two VEV's. Furthermore, some moduli parameters such as NS-NS 2-form flux are identified as the deformation parameters of the 3-algebras. By combining them, we recover most of the moduli parameters which are required by U-duality symmetry.Comment: 27 pages, v2: minor correction

On the nature of Lithium-rich giant stars: constraints from Beryllium abundances

We have derived beryllium abundances for 7 Li-rich giant (A(Li) > 1.5) stars and 10 other Li-normal giants, with the aim of investigating the origin of the Lithium in the Li-rich giants. In particular, we test the predictions of the engulfment scenario proposed by Siess & Livio (1999), where the engulfment of a brown dwarf or one or more giant planets would lead to a simultaneous enrichment of 7Li and 9Be. We show that regardless their nature, none of the stars studied in this paper were found to have detectable beryllium. Using simple dilution arguments we show that the engulfment of an external object as the sole source of Li enrichment is ruled out by the Li and Be abundance data. The present results favor the idea that Li has been produced in the interior of the stars by a Cameron-Fowler process and brought up to the surface by an extra mixing mechanism.Comment: Accepted in A&

Coletas de sementes em árvores altas.

bitstream/CNPF-2009-09/42432/1/Doc145.pdf1 CD-ROM

Tratamentos pré-germinativos em sementes de pata-de-vaca.

Resumo

An invariant approach to dynamical fuzzy spaces with a three-index variable

A dynamical fuzzy space might be described by a three-index variable C_{ab}^c, which determines the algebraic relations f_a f_b =C_{ab}^c f_c among the functions f_a on the fuzzy space. A fuzzy analogue of the general coordinate transformation would be given by the general linear transformation on f_a. I study equations for the three-index variable invariant under the general linear transformation, and show that the solutions can be generally constructed from the invariant tensors of Lie groups. As specific examples, I study SO(3) symmetric solutions, and discuss the construction of a scalar field theory on a fuzzy two-sphere within this framework.Comment: Typos corrected, 12 pages, 8 figures, LaTeX, JHEP clas

On the chromospheric activity of stars with planets

Context. Signatures of chromospheric activity enhancement have been found for a dozen stars, pointing to a possible star-planet interaction. Nevertheless in the coronal activity regime, there is no conclusive observational evidence for such an interaction. Does star-planet interaction manifest itself only for a few particular cases, without having a major effect on stars with planets in general? Aims. We aim to add additional observational constraints to support or reject the major effects of star-planet interactions in stellar activity, based on CaII chromospheric emission flux. Methods. We performed a statistical analysis of CaII emission flux of stars with planets, as well as a comparison between CaII and X-ray emission fluxes, searching for dependencies on planetary parameters. Results. In the present sample of stars with planets, there are no significant correlations between chromospheric activity indicator log(R'HK) and planetary parameters. Further, the distribution of the chromospheric activity indicator for stars without planets is not distinguishable from the one with planets.Comment: 6 pages, 5 figures, submitted to A&