On certain orthogonal polynomials, Nikolski- and Turán-type inequalities, and interpolatory properties of best approximants (Q1801557)

Let \(B_{n,p}(f)\) be the best \(L_ p\)-approximant of \(f\in C[-1,1]\) by polynomials of degree at most \(n\) (\(1<p\leq\infty\)). The main result of the paper: Assume that for a given subsequence \((n_ j)\), \(n_ 1<n_ 2<\dots\), such that \(f=B_{n_ j,p}(f)\) is zero-free on some interval \((a,b)\subseteq[-1,1]\). Then \(\limsup_{j\to\infty} n_{j+1}/n_ j>1\). This result constitutes a positive answer to a conjecture of \textit{E. B. Saff} and \textit{B. Shekhtman} [Indag. Math., New Ser. 1, No. 4, 489-498 (1990; Zbl 0723.41022)] concerning the lacunarity of bad subsequences of best approximation polynomials. For this purpose the author obtains general oscillatory properties of orthogonal polynomials (of independent interest) and fine asymptotic estimates.