I have the following problem. Let $\Omega \subset R^n$ have finite measure, let $H = L^2(\Omega)$ and let $S: H \to H$ be a bounded linear operator. Then it is well known that $P = SS^*$ is a positive operator, i.e., $(Px, x) \geq 0$. for all $x \in H$. Now let $M_f:H \to H$ be the multiplication operator induced by $f: \Omega \to R$ where $f \geq 0$ (or even f \geq c > 0). Is it true that $P_1 = SM_fS^*$ is also positive? If so, do you have a proof or reference?
Thanks in advance.