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We present a seismic study of $\delta$ Scuti based on a mode identification from multicoulor photometry. The dominant frequency can be associated only with a radial mode and the second frequency is, most probably, a dipole mode. The other six frequencies have more ambiguous identifications. The photometric mode identification provided also some constraints on the atmospheric metallicity [m/H]$\approx$+0.5 and microturbulent velocity $\xi_t\approx 4~\kms$.\\ For models reproducing the dominant frequency, we show that only the fundamental mode is possible and the first overtone is excluded. However, the location of $\delta$ Scuti near the terminal age main sequence requires the consideration of three stages of stellar evolution. For the star to be on the main sequence, it is necessary to include overshooting from the convective core with a parameter of at least $\alpha_{\rm ov}=0.25$ at the metallicity greater than $Z=0.019$. It turned out that the value of the relative amplitude of the bolometric flux variations (the nonadiabatic parameter $f$) is mainly determined by the position of the star in the HR diagram, i.e., by its effective temperature and luminosity, whereas the effect of the evolutionary stage is minor. On the other hand, the convective efficiency in the subphotospheric layers has a dominant effect on the value of the parameter $f$. %in the $\delta$ Sct star models. Comparing the theoretical and empirical values of $f$ for the radial dominant mode, we obtain constraints on the mixing length parameter $\alpha_{\rm MLT}$ which is less than about 1.0, independently of the adopted opacity data and chemical mixture. This value of $\alpha_{\rm MLT}$ is substantially smaller than for a calibrated solar model indicating rather low to moderately efficient convection in the envelope of $\delta$ Scuti., Comment: accepted for publication in MNRAS, 17 pages, 13 figures, 3 tables

We present the results of complex seismic analysis of the prototype star SX Phoenicis. This analysis consists of a simultaneous fitting of the two radial-mode frequencies, the corresponding values of the bolometric flux amplitude (the parameter $f$) and of the intrinsic mode amplitude $\varepsilon$. The effects of various parameters as well as the opacity data are examined. With each opacity table it is possible to find seismic models that reproduce the two observed frequencies with masses allowed by evolutionary models appropriate for the observed values of the effective temperature and luminosity. All seismic models are in the post-main sequence phase. The OPAL and OP seismic models are in hydrogen shell-burning phase and the OPLIB seismic model has just finished an overall contraction and starts to burn hydrogen in a shell. The OP and OPLIB models are less likely due to the requirement of high initial hydrogen abundance ($X_0=0.75)$ and too high metallicity ($Z\approx 0.004$) as for a Population II star. The fitting of the parameter $f$, whose empirical values are derived from multi-colour photometric observations, provides constraints on the efficiency of convective transport in the outer layers of the star and on the microturbulent velocity in the atmosphere. Our complex seismic analysis with each opacity data indicates low to moderately efficient convection in the star's envelope, described by the mixing length parameter of $\alpha_{\rm MLT}\in (0.0,~0.7)$, and the microturbulent velocity in the atmosphere of about $\xi_{\rm t}\in(4,~8)~\kms$., Comment: accepted for publication in MNRAS, 13 pages, 12 figures

KIC8264293 is a fast rotating B-type pulsator observed by Kepler satellite. Its photometric variability is mainly due to pulsations in high-order g modes. Besides, we detected a weak H$\alpha$ emission. Thus, the second source of variability is the fluctuation in a disk around the star. The pulsational spectrum of KIC8264293 reveals a frequency grouping and period spacing pattern. Here, we present the thorough seismic analysis of the star based on these features. Taking into account the position of the star in the HR diagram and fitting the 14 frequencies that form the period spacing we constrain the internal structure of the star. We conclude that the star barely left the ZAMS and the best seismic model has $M = 3.54\,\mathrm{M}_\odot$, $V_\mathrm{rot}=248\,\mathrm{km\,s}^{-1}$ and $Z = 0.0112$. We found the upper limit on the mixing at the edge of the convective core, with the overshooting parameter up to $f_\mathrm{ov} = 0.03$. On the other hand, we were not able to constrain the envelope mixing for the star. To excite the modes in the observed frequency range, we had to modify the opacity data. Our best seismic model with an opacity increase by 100% at the "nickel" bump $\log T=5.46$ explains the whole instability. KIC8264293 is the unique, very young star pulsating in high-order g modes with the Be feature. However, it is not obvious whether the source of this circumstellar matter is the ejection of mass from the underlying star or whether the star has retained its protostellar disk., Comment: Accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Main Journal

We construct seismic models of the four double-mode radial $\delta$ Scuti stars adopting opacities from three databases: OPAL, OP and OPLIB. The aim is to find the models that fit the observed frequencies of the two radial modes and have the effective temperature and luminosity consistent with the observed values. Using the Bayesian analysis based on Monte Carlo simulations, we obtain that only the OPAL seismic models are caught within the observed error box in the HR diagram. Seismic models computed with the OP and OPLIB data are much cooler and less luminous. By including the relative amplitude of the bolometric flux variations (the so-called parameter $f$) into these simulations, we constrain the efficiency of convection in the envelopes, described by the mixing length parameter $\alpha_{\rm MLT}$. We get $\alpha_{\rm MLT}\approx 0.5$ for BP Peg, AE UMa and RV Ari (Population I stars) and $\alpha_{\rm MLT}\approx 1.0$ for SX Phe (Population II star). For all the stars, overshooting from the convective core seems inefficient. A similar effect of opacity should occur also for classical Cepheids or RR Lyr stars that are used as standard candles to measure the universe., Comment: Accepted for the publication in the Astrophysical Journal Letters

Recent re-determination of stellar atmospheric parameters for a sample of stars observed during the {\it Kepler} mission allowed to enlarge the number of {\it Kepler} B-type stars. We present the detailed frequency analysis for all these objects. All stars exhibit pulsational variability with maximum amplitudes at frequencies corresponding to high-order g modes. Peaks that could be identified with low-order p/g modes are also extracted for a few stars. We identified some patters in the oscillation spectra that can be associated with the period spacings that can result from the asymptotic nature of the detected pulsational modes. We also tentatively confront the observed oscillation characteristics with predictions from linear nonadiabatic computations of stellar pulsations. For high-order g modes the traditional approximation was employed to include the effects of rotation on the frequency values and mode instability., Comment: Accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Main Journal

Amongst the intermediate mass pulsating stars known as $\delta$ Sct stars is a subset of high-amplitude and predominantly radial-mode pulsators known as high-amplitude $\delta$ Sct (HADS) stars. From more than 2000 $\delta$ Sct stars observed by the Kepler space mission, only two HADS stars were detected. We investigate the more perplexing of these two HADS stars, KIC5950759. We study its variability using ground- and space-based photometry, determine its atmospheric parameters from spectroscopy and perform asteroseismic modelling to constrain its mass and evolutionary stage. From spectroscopy, we find that KIC5950759 is a metal-poor star, which is in agreement with the inferred metallicity needed to reproduce its pulsation mode frequencies from non-adiabatic pulsation models. Furthermore, we combine ground-based WASP and Kepler space photometry, and measure a linear change in period of order $\dot{P}/P \simeq 10^{-6}$ yr$^{-1}$ for both the fundamental and first overtone radial modes across a time base of several years, which is at least two orders of magnitude larger than predicted by evolution models, and is the largest measured period change in a $\delta$ Sct star to date. Our analysis indicates that KIC5950759 is a metal-poor HADS star near the short-lived contraction phase and the terminal-age main sequence, with its sub-solar metallicity making it a candidate SX Phe star. KIC5950759 is a unique object amongst the thousands of known $\delta$ Sct stars and warrants further study to ascertain why its pulsation modes are evolving remarkably faster than predicted by stellar evolution., Comment: 15 pages, accepted for publication in MNRAS

We report the discovery of the hottest hybrid B--type pulsator, KIC\,3240411, that exhibits the period spacing in the low--frequency range. This pattern is associated with asymptotic properties of high-order gravity (g) modes. Our seismic modelling made simultaneously with the mode identification shows that dipole axisymmetric modes best fit the observations. Evolutionary models are computed with MESA code and pulsational models with the linear non-adiabatic code employing the traditional approximation to include the effects of rotation. The problem of mode excitation is discussed. We confirm that significant modification is indispensable to explain an instability of both pressure and gravity modes in the observed frequency ranges of KIC\,3240411., publisched in MNRAS

We analyse time-series observations from the BRITE-Constellation of the well known $\beta$ Cephei type star $\theta$ Ophiuchi. Seven previously known frequencies were confirmed and nineteen new frequency peaks were detected. In particular, high-order g modes, typical for the SPB (Slowly Pulsating B-type star) pulsators, are uncovered. These low-frequency modes are also obtained from the 7-year SMEI light curve. If g modes are associated with the primary component of $\theta$ Oph, then our discovery allows, as in the case of other hybrid pulsators, to infer more comprehensive information on the internal structure. To this aim we perform in-depth seismic studies involving simultaneous fitting of mode frequencies, reproducing mode instability and adjusting the relative amplitude of the bolometric flux variations. To explain the mode instability in the observed frequency range a significant increase of the mean opacity in the vicinity of the $Z$-bump is needed. Moreover, constraints on mass, overshooting from the convective core and rotation are derived. If the low-frequency modes come from the speckle B5 companion then taking into account the effects of rotation is enough to explain the pulsational mode instability., Comment: 15 pages, 10 figures

Uncertainties in stellar structure and evolution theory are largest for stars undergoing core convection on the main sequence. A powerful way to calibrate the free parameters used in the theory of stellar interiors is asteroseismology, which provides direct measurements of angular momentum and element transport. We report the detection and classification of new variable O and B stars using high-precision short-cadence (2-min) photometric observations assembled by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). In our sample of 154 O and B stars, we detect a high percentage (90%) of variability. Among these we find 23 multiperiodic pulsators, 6 eclipsing binaries, 21 rotational variables, and 25 stars with stochastic low-frequency variability. Several additional variables overlap between these categories. Our study of O and B stars not only demonstrates the high data quality achieved by TESS for optimal studies of the variability of the most massive stars in the Universe, but also represents the first step towards the selection and composition of a large sample of O and B pulsators with high potential for joint asteroseismic and spectroscopic modeling of their interior structure with unprecedented precision., 16 pages, 4 figures, 1 Table, Accepted for publication in ApJL

We report an analysis of the first known β Cep pulsator observed by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission, the runaway star PHL 346 = HN Aqr. The star, previously known as a singly periodic pulsator, has at least 34 oscillation modes excited, 12 of those in the g-mode domain and 22 p modes. Analysis of archival data implies that the amplitude and frequency of the dominant mode and the stellar radial velocity were variable over time. A binary nature would be inconsistent with the inferred ejection velocity from the Galactic disk of 420 km s -1 , which is too large to be survivable by a runaway binary system. A kinematic analysis of the star results in an age constraint (23 +1 Myr) that can be imposed on asteroseismic modeling and that can be used to remove degeneracies in the modeling process. Our attempts to match the excitation of the observed frequency spectrum resulted in pulsation models that were too young. Hence, asteroseismic studies of runaway pulsators can become vital not only in tracing the evolutionary history of such objects, but to understand the interior structure of massive stars in general. TESS is now opening up these stars for detailed asteroseismic investigation. © 2019. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved.., This Letter includes data collected by the TESS mission. Funding for the TESS mission is provided by the NASA Explorer Program. Funding for the TESS Asteroseismic Science Operations Centre is provided by the Danish National Research Foundation (grant agreement No.: DNRF106), ESA PRODEX (PEA 4000119301) and Stellar Astrophysics Centre (SAC) at Aarhus University. We thank the TESS team and staff and TASC/TASOC for their support of the present work. This work is also based on observations collected at the European Southern Observatory under ESO programme 383.D-0909(A). Funding through the Polish NCN grants 2015/18/A/ST9/00578, 2016/21/B/ST9/01126, 2015/17/B/ST9/02082 and 2014/13/B/ST9/00902 is gratefully acknowledged. G.M.M. acknowledges funding by the STFC consolidated grant ST/R000603/1. The research leading to these results has received funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme (grant agreement No. 670519: MAMSIE). S.S.-D. acknowledges funding by the Spanish MCIU (projects AYA2015-68012-C2-1-P and SEV2015-0548) and the Gobierno de Canarias (project ProID2017010115).

We present the results of age determination for galactic B-type main sequence stars which are components of double-lined eclipsing binaries. Only detached systems are considered. We analyze 38 binary systems that meet such criteria. The analysis is based on evolutionary computations and we consider that the age is determined if there is a common value from the radius-age diagrams and the agreement in the position of both components in the Hertzsprung-Russel diagram. In some cases, to meet these two conditions, it was necessary to adjust the value of the metallicity, Z or/and the parameter of overshooting from the convective core, $\alpha_{ov}$. We determine the consistent age for 33 binaries out of 38. Besides, we made an extensive computations and for each system we give the range of $\alpha_{ov}$ and Z, for which the consistent solutions exist. The age of the studied B-type main sequence stars ranges, as counted from the Zero Age Main Sequence, from about 2.5 Myr to about 200 Myr., Comment: Online data: https://zenodo.org/record/3403692#.XXd2Ly3UTRZ

The analysis of the BRITE oscillation spectrum of the main sequence early B-type star $\nu$ Eridani is presented. Only models with the modified mean opacity profile can account for the observed frequency ranges as well as for the values of some individual frequencies. The number of the $\kappa$ modified seismic models is constrained by the nonadiabatic parameter $f$, which is very sensitive to the opacity changes in the subphotospheric layers where the pulsations are driven. We present an example of the model that satisfies all the above conditions. It seems that the OPLIB opacities are preferred over those from the OPAL and OP projects. Moreover, we discuss additional consequences of the opacity modification, namely, an enhancement of the efficiency of convection in the Z-bump as well as an occurrence of close radial modes which is a kind of avoided-crossing phenomenon common for nonradial modes in standard main sequence models., Comment: 10 pages, 5 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present the new interpretation of the oscillation spectrum of HD 163899 based on the new determinations of the effective temperature, mass-luminosity ratio and rotational velocity. These new parameters strongly prefer the more massive models than previously considered. Now it is also possible that the star could be in the main sequence stage. Using the oscillation spectrum as a gauge, we intend to establish which stage of evolution corresponds better to HD 163899., Comment: 6 pages, 4 figures, conference

We examine 4 yr almost continuous Kepler photometry of 115 B stars. We find that the light curves of 39 per cent of these stars can be described by a low-frequency sinusoid and its harmonic, usually with variable amplitude, which we interpret as rotational modulation. A large fraction (32 stars or 28 per cent) might be classified as ellipsoidal variables, but a statistical argument suggests that these are probably rotational variables as well. Ten stars (8 per cent of the total) have a peculiar periodogram feature which is common among A stars. The physical cause of this feature is unknown but very likely related to rotation. The large number of rotating variables suggests that star-spots are common in B stars and indicates that magnetic fields can be generated in radiative stellar envelopes. We find five stars (4 per cent) to be β Cep (BECP) variables, all of which have low frequencies with relatively large amplitudes. The presence of low frequencies in BECP stars is an unsolved problem. There are 21 stars (18 per cent) with multiple low frequencies which could be described as slowly pulsating B (SPB) variables. Other pulsating stars do not fit into the general definition of BECP or SPB variables in that they are cool but pulsate with high frequencies. We assume that these are further examples of the anomalous pulsating stars which in the past have been called ‘Maia’ variables. There are 11 stars (10 per cent) of this type. We also examined 300 B stars observed in the K2 Campaign 0 field. We find 12 BECP/Maia candidates and 15 SPB variables.

Knowledge of the geometry of pulsational modes is a prerequisite for seismic modelling of stars. In the case of slowly pulsating B-type (SPB) pulsators, the simple zero-rotation approach so far used for mode identification is usually not valid because pulsational frequencies are often of the order of the rotational frequency. Moreover, this approach allows us to determine only the spherical harmonic degree, $\ell$, while the azimuthal order, $m$, is beyond its reach. On the other hand, because of the density of oscillation spectra of SPB stars, knowledge of $m$ is indispensable if one wants to assign the radial order, $n$, to the observed frequency peaks. Including the effects of rotation via the traditional approximation, we perform identification of the mode angular numbers ($\ell,~m$) for 31 SPB stars with available multicolour time series photometry. Simultaneously, constraints on the rotational velocity, $V_{\rm rot}$, and the inclination angle, $i$, are determined assuming uniform rotation and a constant value of $V_{\rm rot}\sin i$. Dependence of the results on the adopted model is tested using HD\,21071 as an example. Despite some model uncertainties and limitations of the method, our studies show the correct approach to identifying the low-frequency oscillation modes., accepted in MNRAS, 21 pages, 9 figures

Evolutionary tracks and pulsational analysis of models with masses of 13-18 $M_\odot$ are presented. We address two important questions. The first one deals with one of the most unresolved problems in astrophysics, i.e., the existence of a blue loop after core helium ignition; the so called "to loop or not to loop" problem. We show that inward overshooting from the outer convective zone in the red giant phase is prerequisite for the development of the blue loop. Our second question concerns pulsational instability of models in the core helium burning phase. We present for the first time that models on the blue loop can have unstable modes driven by the $\kappa$ mechanism operating in the $Z-$bump. Contrary to post-main sequence models in the shell hydrogen burning phases, pulsational instability of the blue loop models depends mainly on effective temperature and metallicity is of secondary importance. Finally, we try to interpret the oscillation spectrum of the blue supergiant HD 163899, the only member of the SPBsg class, and to get some clue on the evolutionary status of the star.

We present the analysis of KIC 7760680, the rotating Slowly Pulsating B-type star identified in the Kepler photometry. The oscillation spectrum of the star exhibits a series of 36 frequencies which are quasi-equally spaced in period. We confirm that this series can be associated with prograde dipole modes of consecutive radial orders. In our studies, the effects of rotation were included in the MESA equilibrium models as well as in the puslational calculations in the framework of the traditional approximation. We find that pulsational models computed with the OPLIB opacities best reproduce the observed frequency range. The modified opacity data with an enhancement of the opacity at $\log T=5.3$, 5.46 and 5.06 were tested as well. Increasing the OPLIB opacities by about 50% at $\log T=5.3$ is sufficient to excite modes in the whole range of 36 frequency peaks of KIC 7760680., proceedings of the Joint TASC2 - KASC9 Workshop - SPACEINN - HELAS8 Conference "Seismology of the Sun and the Distant Stars 2016", to be published by the EPJ Web of Conferences

We present a comprehensive seismic study of the three pulsating stars of $\beta$ Cep/SPB type: $\nu$ Eridani, 12 Lacertae and $\gamma$ Pegasi. Models with the modified mean opacity profile are constructed in order to account for both the observed frequency range and the values of some individual frequencies. To decrease the number of possible solutions, we make use of the non-adiabatic parameter $f$, whose value is very sensitive to subphotospheric layers where pulsations are driven. This complex seismic modelling show the need for a significant modification of the opacity profile., Comment: 5 pages, 2 figures, conference paper: Wide-field variability surveys: a 21st-century 22nd Los Alamos Stellar Pulsation Conference. San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, Nov. 28-Dec. 2, 2016

We determine instability domains on the Hertzsprung-Russel diagram for rotating main sequence stars with masses 2-20 $\mathrm M_\odot$. The effects of the Coriolis force are treated in the framework of the traditional approximation. High-order g-modes with the harmonic degrees, $\ell$, up to 4 and mixed gravity-Rossby modes with $|m|$ up to 4 are considered. Including the effects of rotation results in wider instability strips for a given $\ell$ comparing to the non-rotating case and in an extension of the pulsational instability to hotter and more massive models. We present results for the fixed value of the initial rotation velocity as well as for the fixed ratio of the angular rotation frequency to its critical value. Moreover, we check how the initial hydrogen abundance, metallicity, overshooting from the convective core and the opacity data affect the pulsational instability domains. The effect of rotation on the period spacing is also discussed., Comment: Accepted for publication in MNRAS

We study the effects of rotation on surface abundances of CNO elements in massive stars. Nitrogen enrichment caused by rotationally induced mixing can help to constrain parameters of observed stars, especially their rotational velocities. Here we present theoretical results and apply them to the star HD 163899.

We present results of pulsation analyses of B-type supergiant models with masses of $14 - 18 M_\odot$, considering evolutionary stages before and after helium core ignition. Using a non-adiabatic pulsation code, we compute instability domains for low degree modes. For selected models in these two evolutionary phases, we compare properties of pulsation modes. Significant differences are found in oscillation spectra and the kinetic energy density of pulsation modes., accepted for publication in Proceedings of IAU Symposia, 4 pages, 3 figures, conference

Attempts to interpret the observed oscillation spectrum of the SPB star HD 50230 are reported. We argue that a nearly equidistant period spacing found in the oscillation spectrum of the star is most likely accidental. The observed period distribution requires excitation of modes with the degree $\ell>4$. Much more may be learned from the rich oscillation spectrum of the star but most of the work is still ahead of us., Proceedings IAU Symposium No. 301

We present results of the instability analysis of the post-main sequence massive star models against radial and nonradial pulsations. We confirm that both p- and g-modes can be excited by the $\kappa$-mechanism acting in the metal opacity bump. However, as opposed to the previous claims, we find that an intermediate convective zone (ICZ) related to the hydrogen burning shell is not necessary for excitation of g-modes. These modes can be reflected at a minimum of the Brunt-V\"ais\"al\"a frequency, located at the top of the chemical composition gradient region surrounding the radiative helium core. This minimum is associated with the change of actual temperature gradient from the adiabatic value in the semiconvective zone to the radiative value above it. Thus, the existence of pulsations at this evolutionary stage does not prove the existence of the convective zone but only some reflective layer. Finally, we show that no regular patterns can be expected in oscillation spectra of blue supergiant pulsators but there is a prospect for identification of the mode degree, $\ell$, from multicolour photometry., Comment: accepted for publication in MNRAS, 8 pages, 9 figures

We present interpretation of the oscillation spectrum of the early B-type star $\gamma$ Pegasi, in which both low order p/g and high-order g-modes are observed. Using amplitudes and phases of the photometric and radial velocity variations, we identify/constrain the mode degree, $\ell$, for all 14 detected frequencies. Seismic models fitting two pulsational frequencies corresponding to the modes $\ell=0$, p$_1$ and $\ell=1$, g$_1$ were constructed. This set of models contains those which reproduce also the empirical values of the complex nonadiabatic parameter $f$ associated to these two mode frequencies. Unfortunately, there are no models reproducing the values of $f$ for both frequencies simultaneously, regardless of model atmospheres, opacity data, chemical mixture as well as opacity enhancement in the $Z-$ and Deep Opacity Bumps. Most probably, some modifications of the opacities in stellar interiors are still required., Comment: 11 pages, 10 figures

We present results on the instability analysis of the post main sequence massive star models against radial and nonradial pulsations. Both p- and g-modes can be excited by the κ-mechanism operating in the metal opacity bump. However, as opposed to the previous published results, an intermediate convective zone (ICZ) related to the hydrogen burning shell is not necessary for excitation of g-modes. Such modes can be reflected at the chemical composition gradient region surrounding the radiative helium core. We investigate properties of instability parameter, kinetic energy density and work integrals of pulsational modes excited in B-type supergiant models (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Knowledge of the geometry of pulsational modes is a prerequisite for seismic modelling of stars. In the case of slowly pulsating B-type (SPB) pulsators, the simple zero-rotation approach so far used for mode identication is usually not valid because pulsational frequencies are often of the order of the rotational frequency. Moreover, this approach allows us to determine only the spherical harmonic degree, ‘, while the azimuthal order, m, is beyond its reach. On the other hand, because of the density of oscillation spectra of SPB stars, knowledge of m is indispensable if one wants to assign the radial order, n, to the observed frequency peaks. Including the eects of rotation via the traditional approximation, we perform identication of the mode angular numbers (‘; m) for 31 SPB stars with available multicolour time series photometry. Simultaneously, constraints on the rotational velocity, Vrot, and the inclination angle, i, are determined assuming uniform rotation and a constant value of Vrot sini. Dependence of the results on the adopted model is tested using HD 21071 as an example. Despite some model uncertainties and limitations of the method, our studies show the correct approach to identifying the low-frequency oscillation modes.

Seismic modeling of the slowly pulsating B-type star HD182255 yields strong constraints on the radial orders of the two dominant modes. For these frequencies, we derive also the empirical values of the complex nonadiabatic parameter f. These two seismic tools, i.e., pulsational frequencies and the associated values of f, allow to test available opacity data, chemical composition, and overshooting effciency (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

We analyse Kepler observations of the high-amplitude δ Scuti (HADS) star V2367 Cyg (KIC 9408694). The variations are dominated by a mode with frequency f1= 5.6611 d−1. Two other independent modes with f2= 7.1490 d−1 and f3= 7.7756 d−1 have amplitudes an order of magnitude smaller than f1. Nearly all the light variation is due to these three modes and their combination frequencies, but several hundred other frequencies of very low amplitude are also present. The amplitudes of the principal modes may vary slightly with time. The star has twice the projected rotational velocity of any other HADS star, which makes it unusual. We find a correlation between the phases of the combination frequencies and their pulsation frequencies, which is not understood. Since modes of highest amplitude in HADS stars are normally radial modes, we assumed that this would also be true in this star. However, attempts to model the observed frequencies as radial modes without mode interaction were not successful. For a star with such a relatively high rotational velocity, it is important to consider the effect of mode interaction. Indeed, when this was done, we were able to obtain a model in which a good match with f1 and f2 is obtained, with f1 being the fundamental radial mode.

We perform mode identification for the frequency peaks detected in the light variation of HD 21071 including the effects of rotation via the traditional approximation. We find the angular numbers (ℓ, m) for all observed frequencies and limit the range of the rotational velocity. In the next step, we make an attempt towards seismic modelling of the star in order to constrain its global parameters.

Through the observational study of stellar pulsations, the internal structure of stars can be probed and theoretical models can be tested. The main sequence -γ Doradus (Dor) and δ Scuti (Sct) stars with masses 1.2–2.5 M⊙ are particularly interesting for asteroseismic study. The -γ Dor stars pulsate in high-order gravity (g) modes, with pulsational periods of order of one day. The δ Sct stars, on the other hand, show low-order g and pressure (p) modes with periods of order of 2 hours. Theory predicts the existence of ‘hybrid’ stars, i.e. stars pulsating in both types of modes, in an overlap region between the instability strips of -γ Dor and δ Sct stars in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. Hybrid stars are particularly interesting as the two types of modes probe different regions of the stellar interior and hence provide complementary model constraints. Before the advent of Kepler, only a few hybrid stars had been confirmed. The Kepler satellite is providing a true revolution in the study of and search for hybrid stars. Analysis of the first 50 days of Kepler data of hundreds of -γ Dor and δ Sct candidates reveals extremely rich frequency spectra, with most stars showing frequencies in both the δ Sct and -γ Dor frequency range. As these results show that there are practically no pure δ Sct or -γ Dor pulsators, a new observational classification scheme is proposed by Grigahcene et al. (2010). We present their results and characterize 234 stars in terms of δ Sct, -γ Dor, δ Sct/-γ Dor or -γ Dor/δ Sct hybrids (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

We present the results of a three-continent multisite photometric campaign carried out on the Algol-type eclipsing binary system RZ Cas, in which the primary component has recently been discovered to be a δ Sct-type pulsator. The present observations include, for the first time, complete simultaneous Stromgren uvby light curves together with a few Crawford Hβ data collected around the orbital phase of the first quadrature. The new observations confirm the pulsational behaviour of the primary component. A detailed photometric analysis, based on these observations, is presented for both binarity and pulsation. The results indicate a semidetached system where the secondary fills its Roche lobe. The appearance of the light curves reveals the presence of the mass stream from the secondary component and a hotspot where this stream impacts on the surface of the primary star. There are also some indications of chromospheric activity in the secondary. On the other hand, the pulsational behaviour out-of-primary eclipse can be well described with only one frequency at 64.1935 cd -1 similar to the main peak found by Ohshima et al. The existence of multiperiodicity is not confirmed in our data. Concerning the mode identification, our results indicate non-radial pulsation in a high radial order (n = 6), with l = 2, |m| = 1, 2 as the most suitable. However, additional effects must be taken into account in the predictions. Moreover, the pulsation amplitude in the u band is larger than in b and v, which is unusual among the δ Sct-type variables. This can be explained as due to pulsation in a high n value and close to the blue edge of the δ Sct region. On the other hand, the early data of Ohshima et al. have also been analysed and similar results are found concerning the frequency content and pulsational amplitude. Finally, a revision of all the photometric out-of-primary-eclipse data sets available in the literature is made together with some additional unpublished data leading to interesting findings relative to changes taking place in the pulsation amplitudes and frequencies from season to season. Furthermore, multiperiodicity is probably present in some epochs.

We determine intrinsic mode amplitudes, |e|, for the two δ Scuti stars FG Vir and 44 Tau by combining two-color photometry and radial velocity data. We show that the combination of two-color photometry and radial velocity data could be used together with reliable mode identification to study intrinsic amplitudes and mode selection. Individual Objects: FG Vir, 44 Tau

Low-frequency oscillations are unstable in a wide range of stellar models and have been detected in a number of B-type stars. For such modes, even a moderate rotation significantly affects amplitude distribution over stellar surface and hence their visibility conditions. Adopting the traditional approximation, we study effects of rotation on relative amplitudes in photometric passbands and in radial velocity. We present numerical results for unstable modes in a selected stellar model of a 6 M ๏ main sequence star. The goal is to show how observable amplitudes, which are tools for mode identification, depend on the rotation rate and on the aspect angle.

Interpretation of the oscillation spectrum of the slowly pulsating B-type star HD21071 is presented. We show that non-rotating models cannot account for the two highest amplitude frequencies and taking into account the effects of rotation is necessary. Rotating seismic models are constructed using various chemical compositions, opacity data, core overshooting parameters and rotational velocities. There are prospects for seismic modelling of SPB stars, even if no asymptotic pattern is observed in their oscillation spectra, provided an unambiguous mode identification is doable and the effects of rotation are properly included., 13 pages, 9 figures, 4 tables, accepted in MNRAS

A multisite photometric campaign for the β Cephei and eclipsing variable 16 Lacertae is reported. 749 h of high-quality differential photoelectric Strömgren, Johnson and Geneva time series photometry were obtained with 10 telescopes during 185 nights. After removing the pulsation contribution, an attempt was made to solve the resulting eclipse light curve by means of the computer program EBOP. Although a unique solution was not obtained, the range of solutions could be constrained by comparing computed positions of the secondary component in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram with evolutionary tracks. For three high-amplitude pulsation modes, the uvy and the Geneva UBG amplitude ratios are derived and compared with the theoretical ones for spherical-harmonic degrees ℓ ≤ 4. The highest degree, ℓ = 4, is shown to be incompatible with the observations. One mode is found to be radial, one is ℓ = 1, while in the remaining case ℓ = 2 or 3. The present multisite observations are combined with the archival photometry in order to investigate the long-term variation of the amplitudes and phases of the three high-amplitude pulsation modes. The radial mode shows a non-sinusoidal variation on a time-scale of 73 yr. The ℓ = 1 mode is a triplet with unequal frequency spacing, giving rise to two beat-periods, 720.7 d and 29.1 yr. The amplitude and phase of the ℓ = 2 or 3 mode vary on time-scales of 380.5 d and 43 yr. The light variation of 2 And, one of the comparison stars, is discussed in the appendix. 18 pages, 19 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS ispartof: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society vol:454 issue:1 pages:724-740 status: published

We study the frequency distributions of Delta Scuti stars observed by the Kepler satellite in short-cadence mode. To minimize errors in the estimated stellar parameters, we divided the instability strip into ten regions and determined the mean frequency distribution in each region. We confirm that the presence of low frequencies is a property of all Delta Scuti stars, rendering meaningless the concept of Delta Sct/Gamma Dor hybrids. We obtained the true distribution of equatorial rotational velocities in each region and calculated the frequency distributions predicted by pulsation models, taking into account rotational splitting of the frequencies. We confirm that rotation cannot account for the presence of low frequencies. We calculated a large variety of standard pulsation models with different metal and helium abundances, but were unable to obtain unstable low-frequency modes driven by the kappa mechanism in any model. We also constructed models with modified opacities in the envelope. Increasing the opacity at a temperature log T = 5.06 by a factor of two does lead to instability of low-degree modes at low frequencies, but also decreases the frequency range of Delta Sct-type pulsations to some extent. We also re-affirm the fact that less than half of the stars in the Delta Sct instability strip have pulsations detectable by Kepler. We also point out the huge variety of frequency patterns in stars with roughly similar parameters, suggesting that nonlinearity is an important factor in Delta Sct pulsations., Comment: 11 pages, 7 figures. 1 table

In addition to revealing spherical harmonic degrees, $\ell$, of excited modes, pulsational amplitudes and phases from multicolour photometry and radial velocity data yield a valuable constraints on stellar atmospheric parameters and on subphotospheric convection. Multiperiodic pulsators are of particular interest because each mode yields independent constraints. We present an analysis of data on twelve modes observed in FG Vir star., Comment: 7 pages, 5 figures, in the proceedings of IAU Symposium 224: "The A-star Puzzle", eds. J. Zverko, W. W. Weiss, J. Ziznowsky, S. J. Adelman

We revise the evolutionary status of the B-type supergiant HD\,163899 based on the new determinations of the mass-luminosity ratio, effective temperature and rotational velocity as well as on the interpretation of the oscillation spectrum of the star. The observed value of the nitrogen-to-carbon abundance fixes the value of the rotation rate of the star. Now, more massive models are strongly preferred than those previously considered and it is very likely that the star is still in the main sequence stage. The rotationally induced mixing manifests as the nitrogen overabundance in the atmosphere, which agrees with our analysis of the HARPS spectra. Thus, HD\,163899 belongs probably to a group of evolved nitrogen-rich main-sequence stars., 15 pages, 10 figures, accepted for publication in ApJ

In this paper we present new photometric and radial velocity data for the PMS $\delta$ Sct star H254, member of the young cluster IC 348. Photometric V,R$_C$,I$_C$ light curves were obtained at the Loiano and Asiago telescopes. The radial velocity data was acquired by means of the SARG@TNG spectrograph. High-resolution spectroscopy allowed us to derive precise stellar parameters and the chemical composition of the star, obtaining: T$_{\rm eff}$\,=\,6750\,$\pm$\,150 K; $\log g$\,=\,4.1\,$\pm$\,0.4 dex; [Fe/H]=-0.07$\pm$0.12 dex. Photometric and spectroscopic data were used to estimate the total absorption in the $V$ band A$_{\rm V}$=2.06$\pm$0.05 mag, in agreement with previous estimates. We adopted the technique of the difference in phase and amplitude between different photometric bands and radial velocities to verify that H254 is (definitely) pulsating in a radial mode. This occurrence allowed us to apply the CORS realization of the Baade--Wesselink method to obtain a value for the linear radius of H254 equal to 3.3$\pm$0.7 $R_\odot$. This result was used in conjunction with photometry and effective temperature to derive a distance estimate of 273$\pm$23 pc for H254, and, in turn for IC 348, the host cluster. This value is in agreement within the errors with the results derived from several past determinations and the evaluation obtained through the Hipparcos parallaxes. Finally, we derived the luminosity of H254 and studied its position in the Hertzsprung--Russell diagram. From this analysis it results that this $\delta$--Scuti occupies a position close to the red edge of the instability strip, pulsates in the fundamental mode, has a mass of about 2.2 $M_\odot$ and an age of 5$\pm$1 Myr, older than previous estimates., Comment: 12 pages. Accepted for publication on MNRAS

We present results of a search for identification of modes responsible for the six most significant frequency peaks detected in the rapidly rotating SPB star $\mu$ Eridani. All published and some unpublished photometric data are used in our new analysis. The mode identification is carried out with the method developed by Daszy\'nska-Daszkiewicz et al. employing the phases and amplitudes from multi-band photometric data and relying on the traditional approximation for the treatment of oscillations in rotating stars. Models consistent with the observed mean parameters are considered. For the five frequency peaks, the candidates for the identifications are searched amongst unstable modes. In the case of the third frequency, which is an exact multiple of the orbital frequency, this condition is relaxed. The systematic search is continued up to a harmonic degree $\ell =6$. Determination of the angular numbers, $(\ell,m)$, is done simultaneously with the rotation rate, $V_{\rm rot}$, and the inclination angle, $i$, constrained by the spectroscopic data on the projected rotational velocity, $V_{\rm rot}\sin i$, which is assumed constant. All the peaks may be accounted for with g-modes of high radial orders and the degrees $\ell\le 6$. There are differences in some identifications between the models. For the two lowest--amplitude peaks the identifications are not unique. Nonetheless, the equatorial velocity is constrained to a narrow range of (135, 140) km/s. Our work presents the first application of the photometric method of mode identification in the framework of the traditional approximation and we believe that it opens a new promising direction in studies of SPB stars., Comment: accepted for publication in MNRAS

Results of mode identification and seismic modelling of the $\beta$ Cep/SBP star 12 Lacertae are presented. Using data on the multi-colour photometry and radial velocity variations, we determine or constrain the mode degree, $\ell$, for all pulsational frequencies. Including the effects of rotation, we show that the dominant frequency, $\nu_1$, is most likely a pure $\ell=1$ mode and the low frequency, $\nu_A$, is a dipole retrograde mode. We construct a set of seismic models which fit two pulsational frequencies corresponding to the modes $\ell= 0,$ p$_1$ and $\ell= 1,$ g$_1$ and reproduce also the complex amplitude of the bolometric flux variations, $f$, for both frequencies simultaneously. Some of these seismic models reproduce also the frequency $\nu_A$, as a mode $\ell= 1,$ g$_{13}$ or g$_{14}$, and its empirical values of $f$. Moreover, it was possible to find a model fitting the six 12 Lac frequencies (the first five and $\nu_A$), only if the rotational splitting was calculated for a velocity of $V_{\rm rot}\approx 75$ km/s. In the next step, we check the effects of model atmospheres, opacity data, chemical mixture and opacity enhancement. Our results show that the OP tables are preferred and an increase of opacities in the $Z-$bump spoils the concordance of the empirical and theoretical values of $f$., Comment: 13 pages, 10 figures, published in MNRAS

High precision asteroseismic data provide a unique opportunity to test input microphysics such as stellar opacities, chemical composition or equation of state. These tests are possible because pulsational frequencies as well as amplitudes and phases of the light variations are very sensitive to the internal structure of a star. We can therefore compute pulsation models and compare them with observations. The agreement or differences should tell us whether some models are adequate or not, and which input data need to be improved., Comment: Proceedings IAU Symposium No. 301

We present the results of complex seismic modelling of the Slowly Pulsating B-type star HD74560. The star pulsates in five frequencies detected in photometric observations. For all these frequencies, we identify the mode degree, l. For two of them, found also in spectroscopic data, we are able to derived the empirical values of the complex nonadiabatic parameter f. We test effects of chemical composition and opacity data. Our results show that the properties of seismic models of SPB stars differ significantly from those of the more massive β Cephei stars.

We present an influence of mass loss, element diffusion and convective overshooting on instability areas of SPBsg stars with masses of 13 - 18 M⊙. Evolutionary phases before and after helium core ignition are considered. We discuss how these effects affect the structure of the blue loops and hence a coverage of instability areas.

Using the updated oscillation spectrum of $\gamma$ Pegasi, we construct a set of seismic models which reproduce two pulsational frequencies corresponding to the $\ell=0$, p$_1$ and $\ell=1$, g$_1$ modes. Then, we single out models which reproduce other well identified modes. Finally, we extend our seismic modelling by a requirement of fitting also values of the complex, nonadiabatic parameter $f$ associated to each mode frequency. Such complex asteroseismology of the B-type pulsators provides a unique test of stellar metallicity and opacities. In contrast to our previous studies, results for $\gamma$ Peg indicate that both opacity tables, OPAL and OP, are equally preferred., Comment: 5 pages, 4 figures, Astronomical Notes, submitted The proceedings of the HELAS IV conference, Lanzarote 1-5 February, 2010, Eds. T. Roca Cortes, P. Palle and S. Jimenez Reyes

Observations of the pulsations of stars can be used to infer their interior structure and test theoretical models. The main sequence $\gamma$ Doradus (Dor) and $\delta$ Scuti (Sct) stars with masses 1.2-2.5 $M_{\sun}$ are particularly useful for these studies. The $\gamma$ Dor stars pulsate in high-order $g$ modes with periods of order 1 day, driven by convective blocking at the base of their envelope convection zone. The $\delta$ Sct stars pulsate in low-order $g$ and $p$ modes with periods of order 2 hours, driven by the $\kappa$ mechanism operating in the Heii ionization zone. Theory predicts an overlap region in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram between instability regions, where 'hybrid' stars pulsating in both types of modes should exist. The two types of modes with properties governed by different portions of the stellar interior provide complementary model constraints. Among the known $\gamma$ Dor and $\delta$ Sct stars, only four have been confirmed as hybrids. Now, analysis of combined Quarter 0 and Quarter 1 Kepler data for hundreds of variable stars shows that the frequency spectra are so rich that there are practically no pure $\delta$ Sct or $\gamma$ Dor pulsators, i.e. essentially all of the stars show frequencies in both the $\delta$ Sct and $\gamma$ Dor frequency range. A new observational classification scheme is proposed that takes into account the amplitude as well as the frequency, and is applied to categorize 234 stars as $\delta$ Sct, $\gamma$ Dor, $\delta$ Sct/$\gamma$ Dor or $\gamma$ Dor/$\delta$ Sct hybrids., Comment: 6 pages with 4 figures and 1 table - submitted to ApJL

We present examples of an extended asteroseismic modelling in which we aim at fitting not only pulsational frequencies but also certain complex parameter related to each frequency. This kind of studies, called \textbf{complex asteroseismology}, has been successfully applied to a few main sequence B-type pulsators and provided, in particular, plausible constraints on \textbf{stellar opacities}. Here, we briefly describe our results for three early B-type stars., 2 pages, to appear in Highlights of Astronomy, Proceedings of the JD11 held during XXVIIth IAU General Assembly in Rio de Janeiro, invited talk

I discuss a prospect for mode identification from two-passband photometry of forthcoming BRITE space mission. Examples of photometric diagnostic diagrams are shown for three types of main sequence pulsating variables: $\beta$ Cephei, Slowly Pulsating B-type and $\delta$ Scuti stars. I consider also taking into account the radial velocity data from simultaneous spectroscopy, which can be carried out from the ground. With such observations, much better discrimination of the spherical harmonic degree, $\ell$, can be accomplished and more constraints on stellar parameters and input physics can be derived., Comment: 14 pages, 9 figures, to appear in Communication in Asteroseismology, proceedings of the BRITE Workshop, 22-23 May 2007, Vienna