arXiv subjects

Michael A. Schmidt

Publications and source records attributed to Michael A. Schmidt.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Constraints on invisible $B^{+}\to K^{+} X$ decays from the Belle II $B^{+} \to K^{+} ν\barν$ measurement

The Belle II measurement of the branching fraction for $B^+\to K^+ ν\bar ν$ shows a $2.7σ$ excess over the Standard Model prediction and motivates new-physics explanations such as axion-like particles, Higgs-like scalars, or beyond Standard Model gauge bosons. A two-body decay $B^+\to K^+ X$ with an invisible $X$ provides a natural candidate explanation. This work provides a comprehensive test of this hypothesis using Belle II's public model-agnostic likelihood. Posterior distributions are derived for the resonance mass $m_X$ and the branching fraction, and a modified frequentist upper-limit mass scan is performed. The data favor a resonance with mass $m_X = 2.1^{+0.2}_{-0.1}$ GeV and the product $\mathcal{B}(B^+\to K^+ X) \cdot \mathcal{P}_{X,\rm inv} = 9.2^{+1.8}_{-3.4} \cdot 10^{-6}$, where $\mathcal{P}_{X,\rm inv}$ is the probability that $X$ (and its decay products) are undetected. Bayes factors indicate a very strong preference for the Standard Model plus resonance over the Standard Model-only hypothesis. A frequentist likelihood-ratio test favors the Standard Model plus resonance hypothesis by $3.0σ$. A light invisible resonance plus the Standard Model therefore provides a compelling description of the Belle II data.

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arXiv2026

Unitarity Cuts, t-channel Divergences and the KLN Theorem for Unstable Particles

Many phenomenological calculations involving massless or unstable particles suffer from divergences as mediating particles go on-shell. One way to deal with these divergences is via the Kinoshita-Lee-Nauenberg (KLN) theorem, which guarantees that by summing over all physically-degenerate processes, the divergences cancel and inclusive observables remain finite. However, actually implementing this theorem in practice requires handling disconnected diagrams, ill-defined distributional objects, threshold behavior and subtle regulator dependence. In this work, we formulate practical prescriptions for dealing with some of these issues by studying the KLN cancellation in an illustrative model exhibiting a t-channel divergence. We demonstrate intricate cancellations across several regularization schemes, connect our results to the complex-analytic structure of the underlying amplitudes, and take steps towards constructing a finite, fixed-order, inclusive t-channel collider observable. This work highlights both the utility of the KLN theorem, and also the technical subtleties and open questions involved with applying it in practice.

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arXiv2026

Running of neutrino mass parameters in the Zee model

We analyse the size of quantum corrections in the Zee model using effective field theory techniques. We derive the relevant 1-loop matching conditions and use them together with the existing renormalisation group equations in the two Higgs doublet model to calculate quantum corrections to the neutrino mass squared differences, mixing angles, and phases. Using four benchmark scenarios, we demonstrate when quantum corrections have to be included in studies of neutrino mass parameters in the Zee model.

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arXiv2026

Monojet and direct detection constraints on real scalar dark matter: EFT and a simple UV completion

We consider constraints that can be placed on certain invisible scalar particles through monojet studies at the LHC and compare them with those from direct detection experiments when interpreted as dark matter. Whereas direct detection constraints are typically more restrictive, we identify regions of parameter space where monojet studies provide important complementary bounds. We carry out our analysis using both a $ϕ$SMEFT for real scalar particle pairs coupled to standard-model fields through operators of up to dimension six, and a simple UV completion with vector-like quarks, with both the scalars and the vector-like quarks being odd under a $\mathbb{Z}_2$ symmetry, while the SM particles are even. The vector-like quarks can only decay into a jet and an invisible scalar, and we recast the current ATLAS monojet data to constrain their parameter space. Comparison of the two descriptions yields some insight into interpreting dark matter constraints obtained with EFTs.

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arXiv2026

Baryon-number-violating nucleon decays in SMEFT extended with a light scalar

New light particles have received considerable attention in recent years. Baryon-number-violating (BNV) nucleon decays involving such light particles are able to provide stringent constraints. They exhibit distinctive experimental signatures that merit thorough investigation. We systematically investigate BNV nucleon decay with a light scalar in an effective field theory framework. Within this framework, we set stringent bounds on BNV operators using available experimental data and predict the occurrence of several BNV three-body nucleon decays. We further study contributions to dinucleon to dilepton transitions in a nucleus mediated by the scalar, which complements single nucleon decay. Finally, we provide three ultraviolet-complete models that can generate different subsets of BNV operators in leading order. Our theoretical framework will facilitate experimental searches for those exotic nucleon decays.

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arXiv2026

An EFT approach to baryon number violation: lower limits on the new physics scale and correlations between nucleon decay modes

Baryon number is an accidental symmetry of the Standard Model at the Lagrangian level. Its violation is arguably one of the most compelling phenomena predicted by physics beyond the Standard Model. Furthermore, there is a large experimental effort to search for it including the Hyper-K, DUNE, JUNO, and THEIA experiments. Therefore, an agnostic, model-independent, analysis of baryon number violation using the power of Effective Field Theory is very timely. In particular, in this work we study the contribution of dimension six and seven effective operators to $|Δ(B-L)|=0, \, 2$ nucleon decays taking into account the effects of Renormalisation Group Evolution. We obtain lower limits on the energy scale of each operator and study the correlations between different decay modes. We find that for some operators the effect of running is very significant.

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arXiv2025

Squeezing Proton Decay and Neutrino Masses: Upper Bounds on Standard Model Extensions

Baryon and lepton number are excellent low-energy symmetries of the Standard Model (SM) that tightly constrain the form of its extensions. In this paper we investigate the possibility that these accidental symmetries are violated in the deep UV, in such a way that one multiplet necessary for their violation lives at an intermediate energy scale $M$ above the electroweak scale. We write down the simplest effective operators containing each multiplet that may couple linearly to the SM at the renormalisable level and estimate the dominant contribution of the underlying UV model to the pertinent operators in the SMEFT: the dimension-5 Weinberg operator and the baryon-number-violating operators up to dimension 7. Our results are upper bounds on the scale $M$ for each multiplet--operator pair, derived from neutrino-oscillation data as well as prospective nucleon-decay searches. We also analyse the possibility that both processes are simultaneously explained within a natural UV model. In addition, we advocate that our framework provides a convenient and digestible way of organising the space of UV models that violate these symmetries.

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arXiv2025

Reexamining the search for light ALPs at flavor and forward accelerator experiments

The axion-like particle (ALP) is a well-motivated extension of the Standard Model. In this work, we revisit the sensitivity of forward accelerator experiments to light long-lived ALPs, and analyze flavor constraints. Our analysis incorporates recent measurements of the rare decays $B\to K + X$ and $K\to π+X$, which place stringent bounds on quark flavor violation of a light ALP. We consider the complete list of hadronic modes in the calculation of the ALP decay rate and exclusive production channels based on recent improvements. The analysis includes the discussion of tree-level quark flavor-violating couplings in addition to a universal flavor-conserving ALP coupling to fermions and the electroweak ALP couplings. Our results demonstrate the complementarity of heavy meson decays and forward accelerator facilities in probing light ALPs. The interplay between two ALP couplings is also investigated.

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arXiv2025

Is Dark Matter the origin of the $B\to K ν\barν$ excess at Belle II?

We present two models of dark matter (DM) that can provide a natural explanation of the excess of $B^+\to K^+ +\,\text{invisible}$ events with respect to the Standard Model (SM) prediction for $B^+\to K^+ ν\barν$, which has been reported by the Belle II collaboration. Interactions between the dark and the visible sector are mediated by an axion-like particle (ALP) in one case, by the kinetic mixing between a dark photon and the SM photon in the second case. Both models encompass a light fermion singlet as the DM candidate and can account for the observed DM relic abundance through, respectively, the freeze-in and the freeze-out production mechanism, while simultaneously explaining the Belle II excess.

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arXiv2025

Selection rules for charged lepton flavour violating processes from residual flavour groups

We systematically investigate the possible phenomenological impact of residual flavour groups in the charged lepton sector. We consider all possible flavour charge assignments for abelian residual symmetries up to Z8. The allowed flavour structures of operators in Standard Model Effective Field Theory (up to dimension six) lead to distinctive and observable patterns of charged lepton flavour violating processes. We illustrate the relevance of such selection rules displaying the current bounds on and the future sensitivities to the new physics scale. These results demonstrate, in particular, the importance and discriminating power of searches for lepton flavour violating tau lepton decays and muonium to antimuonium conversion.

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arXiv2025

Baryon-number-violating nucleon decays in sterile neutrino effective field theories

The search for baryon-number-violating (BNV) nucleon decay provides an intriguing probe of new physics beyond the Standard Model (SM). Future neutrino experiments will improve the sensitivity to BNV nucleon decays and can serve to search for dark particles. In this work, we study the sterile neutrino effective field theories (EFTs) with baryon number violation and the impact of light sterile neutrino on BNV nucleon decays. We revisit the dimension-6 and dimension-7 EFT operator bases with $|Δ(B-L)|=2$ or $|Δ(B-L)|=0$. They are then matched to the baryon chiral perturbation theory. We obtain the effective chiral Lagrangian at low energies and the BNV interactions between the sterile neutrino and baryons and mesons. The rates of nucleon decay to SM neutrinos or a sterile neutrino are calculated. We then show the constraints on the ultraviolet scale from nucleon decay search at Super-K. The correlation of two EFT operators and the dependence on the sterile neutrino mass are also investigated.

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arXiv2025

Neutrino Theory in the Precision Era

This document summarises discussions on future directions in theoretical neutrino physics, which are the outcome of a neutrino theory workshop held at CERN in February 2025. The starting point is the realisation that neutrino physics offers unique opportunities to address some of the most fundamental questions in physics. This motivates a vigorous experimental programme which the theory community fully supports. \textbf{A strong effort in theoretical neutrino physics is paramount to optimally take advantage of upcoming neutrino experiments and to explore the synergies with other areas of particle, astroparticle, and nuclear physics, as well as cosmology.} Progress on the theory side has the potential to significantly boost the physics reach of experiments, as well as go well beyond their original scope. Strong collaboration between theory and experiment is essential in the precision era. To foster such collaboration, \textbf{we propose to establish a CERN Neutrino Physics Centre.} Taking inspiration from the highly successful LHC Physics Center at Fermilab, the CERN Neutrino Physics Centre would be the European hub of the neutrino community, covering experimental and theoretical activities.

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arXiv2025

Z and Higgs boson decays with doubly-charged scalars at one-loop: current constraints, future sensitivities, and application to lepton-triality models

We analyse the $Z$ and Higgs boson decays $Z\to \ell^+ \ell^- $ ($\ell = e, μ,τ$), $H\to γγ$ and $H\to Zγ$ that are induced at one-loop level in models with a doubly-charged isosinglet scalar. After discussing current constraints, we derive the parameter space that will be probed by the HL-LHC and the possible future colliders the ILC, CEPC and FCC. We then apply those constraints to lepton triality models which are based on a discrete $Z_3$ family symmetry and were recently studied in the context of charged-lepton flavour-violating processes at Belle II and the proposed $μ^+ μ^+$ and $μ^+ e^-$ collider known as $μ$TRISTAN. We find that the future constraints that can be imposed by $Z \to \ell^+ \ell^-$ on the lepton flavour conserving couplings of the triality models reduce the viable parameter space to probe lepton flavour violating processes. The constraints from Higgs boson decays are the first on the Higgs portal sector of the triality models.

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arXiv2024

Baryon-number-violating nucleon decays in ALP effective field theories

The search for baryon-number-violating (BNV) nucleon decay is an intriguing probe of new physics beyond the SM in future neutrino experiments with enhanced sensitivity. The dark sector states such as an axion or axion-like particle (ALP) can induce nucleon decays with distinct signature and kinematics from the conventional nucleon decays. In this work, we study the ALP effective field theories (EFTs) with baryon number violation and the impact of light ALP on BNV nucleon decays. We revisit the dimension-8 BNV operators in the extended EFTs with an ALP field $a$ respecting shift symmetry. The low-energy EFT operators with $|Δ(B-L)|=2$ and $|Δ(B-L)|=0$ are matched to the baryon chiral perturbation theory. We obtain the effective chiral Lagrangian and the BNV interactions between ALP and baryons/mesons. The ALP interactions lead to two-body baryon decays $B\to \ell~({\rm or}~ν)~a$ and three-body nucleon decays $N\to M~\ell~({\rm or}~ν)~a$. We obtain the constraints on the UV scale from the invisible $Λ^0$ decay search at BESIII, the invisible neutron decay search at KamLAND and proton decay search at Super-K. We also show the projections of some other baryon/nucleon decays and present the distinct distributions of kinematic observable.

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arXiv2024

Scalar dark matter explanation of the excess in the Belle II $B^+\to K^+ +$ invisible measurement

Recently Belle II reported the first measurement of $B^+\to K^++{\rm invisible (inv)}$, which is $2.7σ$ above the standard model (SM) prediction. If confirmed, this calls for new physics beyond SM. In the SM, the invisible particles are neutrino-anti-neutrino pairs. There are more possibilities when going beyond the SM. In this work, we focus on decays to dark matter (DM) and show that the $B\to K +\mathrm{inv}$ excess from Belle II and DM relic density can be simultaneously explained in a simple extension of the SM. The model introduces a real scalar singlet $ϕ$ acting as a DM candidate, and two heavy vector-like quarks $Q,D$ with the same quantum numbers as the SM left-handed quark doublet and right-handed down-type quark singlet, respectively. All these new particles are odd under a $\mathbb{Z}_2$ symmetry while the SM particles are even. The model can successfully explain the Belle II anomaly and DM relic density for TeV-scale heavy quarks with hierarchical Yukawa couplings involving $b$ and $s$ quarks. At the same time, it can easily satisfy other flavour physics constraints. Direct detection searches utilizing the Migdal effect constrain some of the parameter space.

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arXiv2024

Model-independent estimates for loop-induced baryon-number-violating nucleon decays

Baryon number is an accidental symmetry of the Standard Model (SM) Lagrangian that so far has been measured to be exactly preserved, although it is expected to be violated at higher energies. In this work we compute order-of-magnitude estimates for the matching contributions of generic ultraviolet models to effective operators that generate nucleon decay processes. This is done in a systematic and automated way using operators constructed from SM fields up to dimension nine and working in a framework that has proved useful in the study of lepton-number violation. For each of the operators we derive estimates for the rates of different nucleon-decay channels. These allow us to establish model-independent lower bounds on the underlying new-physics scale and identify potential correlations between the various decay modes. The results are most relevant for genuine models that do not generate nucleon decay at a lower order. This analysis is especially timely given the expected future sensitivities in numerous experiments such as Hyper-K, DUNE, JUNO and THEIA.

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arXiv2024

The quark flavor-violating ALPs in light of B mesons and hadron colliders

The axion-like particle (ALP) may induce flavor-changing neutral currents (FCNCs) when their Peccei-Quinn charges are not generation universal. The search for flavor-violating ALP couplings with a bottom quark so far focused on FCNC processes of $B$ mesons at low energies. The recent measurements of $B\to K +X$ rare decays place stringent bounds on the quark flavor violations of a light ALP in different decay modes. In this work we propose a novel direct search for bottom flavor-violating interaction of a heavy ALP at the LHC and its upgrades, namely QCD production of an ALP associated with one $b$ jet and one light jet $p~p\to b~j~a$. We consider the decay of the ALP to photons, muons and invisible ALP decays. The Boosted Decision Tree (BDT) algorithm is used to analyze the events and we train the BDT classifier by feeding in the kinematic observables of signal and backgrounds. Finally, we show the complementarity between the search prospects of hadron colliders and the low-energy $B$ meson constraints from $B$ meson mixing and $B$ meson decays to a light ALP.

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arXiv2023

When Energy Goes Missing: New Physics in $b\to sνν$ with Sterile Neutrinos

Belle II recently reported the first measurement of $B^+\to K^++\mathrm{inv}$, which is $2.8σ$ above the Standard Model prediction. We explore the available parameter space of new physics within Standard Model effective field theory extended by sterile neutrinos ($ν$SMEFT) and provide predictions for the other $B\to K^{(\star)}+\mathrm{inv}$ decay modes and invisible $B_s$ decays. We also briefly comment on charged current decays $B\to D^{(\star)}\ell\barν$ and possible ultraviolet completions of the relevant $ν$SMEFT operators.

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