Generalized Bernstein polynomials with Pollaczek weight

Bernstein polynomials are a useful tool for approximating functions. In this paper, we extend the applicability of this operator to a certain class of locally continuous functions. To do so, we consider the Pollaczek weight w(x)=exp(-1/sqrt(x(1-x))), 0<x<1, which is rapidly decaying at the endpoints of the interval considered. In order to establish convergence theorems and error estimates, we need to introduce corresponding moduli of smoothness and K -functionals. Because of the unusual nature of this weight, we have to overcome a number of technical difficulties, but the equivalence of the moduli and K -functionals is a benefit interesting in itself. Similar investigations have been made in [B. Della Vecchia, G. Mastroianni, J. Szabados, Weighted approximation of functions with endpoint or inner singularities by Bernstein operators, Acta Math. Hungar. 103 (2004) 19–41] in connection with Jacobi weights.