The massive binary companion star to the progenitor of supernova 1993J

The massive star which underwent core-collapse to produce SN1993J was identified as a non-variable red supergiant star in images of the galaxy M81 taken before explosion. However the stellar source showed an excess in UV and B-band colours that suggested it had either a hot, massive companion star or was embedded in an unresolved young stellar association. The spectra of SN1993J underwent a remarkable transformation between a hydrogen-rich Type II supernova and a helium-rich (hydrogen-deficient) Type Ib. The spectral and photometric peculiarities were explained by models in which the 13-20 solar mass supergiant had lost almost its entire hydrogen envelope to a close binary companion. The binary scenario is currently the best fitting model for the production of such type IIb supernovae, however the hypothetical massive companion stars have so far eluded discovery. Here we report the results of new photometric and spectroscopic observations of SN1993J, 10 years after explosion. At the position of the fading SN we detect the unambiguous signature of a massive star, the binary companion to the progenitor. This is evidence that this type of SN originate in interacting binary systems.Comment: 18 pages (3 figures

A binary model for the UV-upturn of elliptical galaxies (MNRAS version)

The discovery of a flux excess in the far-ultraviolet (UV) spectrum of elliptical galaxies was a major surprise in 1969. While it is now clear that this UV excess is caused by an old population of hot helium-burning stars without large hydrogen-rich envelopes, rather than young stars, their origin has remained a mystery. Here we show that these stars most likely lost their envelopes because of binary interactions, similar to the hot subdwarf population in our own Galaxy. We have developed an evolutionary population synthesis model for the far-UV excess of elliptical galaxies based on the binary model developed by Han et al (2002, 2003) for the formation of hot subdwarfs in our Galaxy. Despite its simplicity, it successfully reproduces most of the properties of elliptical galaxies with a UV excess: the range of observed UV excesses, both in $(1550-V)$ and $(2000-V)$, and their evolution with redshift. We also present colour-colour diagrams for use as diagnostic tools in the study of elliptical galaxies. The model has major implications for understanding the evolution of the UV excess and of elliptical galaxies in general. In particular, it implies that the UV excess is not a sign of age, as had been postulated previously, and predicts that it should not be strongly dependent on the metallicity of the population, but exists universally from dwarf ellipticals to giant ellipticals.Comment: accepted for publication in MNRAS, 24 pages, 15 figures, 2 table

Study of the HII regions in the spiral galaxy NGC6384

The galaxy NGC6384 has been observed with an IPCS through H alpha and [NII] narrow-band interference filters for direct imagery with the 2.6 m Byurakan telescope. We studied main physical parameters of identified 98 HII regions, their diameter and luminosity functions, as well [NII]/H alpha ratio distribution. The integrated distribution function of the HII region diameters can be well fitted by the exponential function. The characteristic diameter has the value (Do = 217 pc) predicted for a galaxy of its measured absolute luminosity. The luminosity function of HII regions has double power laws profile with relatively shallow slope at low luminosities (a = - 0.4), an abrupt turnover at log L(H alpha) = 38.75, and sharper slope at higher luminosities (a = - 2.3). Correlation between luminosity and diameter of HII regions confirms that in general they are constant density, radiation-bound systems. [NII]/H alpha ratio data for HII regions show that there is a negative radial gradient of [NII]/H alpha. In the central region of the galaxy, nitrogen abundance is higher than in the periphery. The properties of the HII regions population of this AGN galaxy does not differs significantly from the properties of the HII regions population of the "normal" galaxies. Reexamining the location of the type Ia SN 1971L in the galaxy, we confirm that it lies on the spiral arm at about 8.6" far from the closest HII region #53 (F81). Such a location can be taken as prove that the progenitor of this SN do not belong to an old, evolved stellar population.Comment: 17 pages, 7 figure

A bridge between worlds: understanding network structure to understand change strategy

A number of scholars are exploring district and site relations in organizational change efforts in the larger policy context of No Child Left Behind. These studies suggest the importance of the central office as a support to the work of reform and offer strategies for building relations between district offices and sites in order to implement and sustain change efforts. What is frequently overlooked in these studies is that organizational change efforts are often socially constructed. Therefore, examining the underlying social networks may provide insight into structures that support or constrain efforts at change. This exploratory case study uses social network analysis and interviews to examine the communication and knowledge network structures of central office and site leaders in an ‘in need of improvement’ district facing sanctions under No Child Left Behind. Findings indicate sparse ties among and between school site and central office administrators, as well as a centralized network structure that may constrain the exchange of complex information and ultimately inhibit efforts at change