arXiv subjects

Rahul Srivastava

Publications and source records attributed to Rahul Srivastava.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Can Elastic Neutrino Scattering Account for the LZ230616 Event?

Recently, the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) Collaboration reported an isolated nuclear-recoil event at $248\pm 23_\mathrm{stat}\pm 23_\mathrm{syst}~\mathrm{keV_{nr}}$, in a region where the expected background is very small and conventional elastic dark matter (DM)-nucleus scattering cannot readily account for such a localized feature. We investigate whether LZ230616 could instead originate from coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CE$\nu$NS). We consider neutrino-nucleus interactions within and beyond the Standard Model, together with exotic neutrino fluxes from DM annihilation ($\chi \chi \to \nu \bar{\nu}$) or decay ($\chi \to \nu \bar{\nu}$) into neutrino pairs and from primordial black hole (PBH) evaporation. We show that kinematic considerations, the accompanying low energy recoil spectrum, and existing constraints exclude a viable interpretation of LZ230616 in terms of elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering for all scenarios considered.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Conversation Coach: A Voice-enabled AI System that Helps Practice Difficult Workplace Conversations

Effective manager-employee communication is critical for retaining high performers and developing underperformers, yet training managers in these skills remains costly. Text-based chatbots offer a scalable approach but cannot provide realistic rehearsal: managers need to practice speaking aloud to build confidence before high-stakes conversations. In this paper, we propose Conversation Coach, a voice-first AI system that enables managers to rehearse difficult workplace conversations in a realistic spoken format. The system addresses three challenges: achieving low-latency interactions with strong language understanding, enabling adaptive conversations through configurable bot personalities that simulate different employee types, and generating personalized feedback on content and policy compliance. We compare an end-to-end speech-to-speech model with a cascaded approach combining automatic speech recognition, a large language model, and text-to-speech synthesis. The end-to-end approach achieves 3$\times$ lower median (P50) latency with native barge-in capability at an estimated 8$\times$ lower cost, while the cascaded approach offers superior reasoning essential for coaching quality. We deployed the cascaded architecture in production, where 40,000+ managers used it over six months, with adoption patterns indicating selective use for difficult conversations.

cs.AI↗

arXiv2026

Precision Tests of SM and new physics with the COHERENT Ge-mini and TEXONO data

A comprehensive numerical analysis of the latest germanium based CE$\nu$NS data from the COHERENT Ge-mini and TEXONO experiments has been conducted to test the Standard Model (SM) and search for new physics. By combining CE$\nu$NS and E$\nu$NS signals with a consistent treatment of detector effects and systematic uncertainties, we obtain a low energy determination of the weak mixing angle from COHERENT Ge-mini, in agreement with the SM prediction. We derive novel constraints on neutrino electromagnetic properties, including the magnetic moment, millicharge, charge radius, and anapole moment, with TEXONO providing particularly competitive bounds. Inclusion of E$\nu$NS, significantly improves the sensitivity to the neutrino millicharge by up to three orders of magnitude. We also investigated light scalar and vector mediators, finding striking complementarity between reactor and stopped pion sources across different mediator mass regimes. Finally, we put bounds on sterile neutral leptons production through transition dipole, scalar, and vector portals, probing masses from the sub MeV to tens of MeV scale. Our results demonstrate that current germanium based CE$\nu$NS experiments provide a powerful low energy laboratory for precision electroweak tests and complementary probes of a broad class of physics beyond the SM.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Twilight of the WIMP: Comprehensive Phenomenology of Electroweak Triplet Dark Matter

We present a comprehensive study of dark matter phenomenology in standard model extensions featuring an electroweak triplet scalar or fermion with hypercharge $Y = 0$ or $Y = 2$. These minimal triplet extensions provide well-motivated dark matter candidates stabilised by the $Z_2$ discrete symmetry. We perform a detailed analysis of the parameter space consistent with current cosmological and experimental constraints, including the relic abundance, direct detection limits, and indirect detection bounds. We find that the scalar triplet with $Y=0$ is ruled out by a combination of relic density, direct detection and indirect detection constraints. On the other hand, the scalar and fermionic triplets with $Y=2$ are both excluded by current direct detection experiments due to their large spin-independent scattering cross-sections. The viable parameter space of the remaining $Y=0$ fermion triplet dark matter lies within the projected sensitivity of near-future experiments, particularly those targeting indirect detection signatures. Collider prospects for these triplet extensions are also discussed in the Appendix.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Flavor specific chiral $U(1)_X$ framework for explaining the ATOMKI anomaly

Recent anomalies in nuclear transitions observed by the ATOMKI Collaboration suggest the existence of a new boson with a mass of $\sim 17$ MeV. A theoretically consistent interpretation requires a framework that not only matches the kinematics but also reproduces the observed decay rates while satisfying stringent experimental constraints. Among various possibilities, an axial-vector or mixed vector--axial-vector mediator $Z'$ emerges as the most viable candidate. However, getting such couplings for a light $Z'$ gauge boson is a highly nontrivial task. In this work, we construct a gauged chiral, flavor specific $U(1)_X$ extensions of the Standard Model where the associated $Z'$ boson acts as the $17$ MeV particle. By employing a two Higgs doublet framework, we generate the necessary nonvanishing axial-vector couplings while ensuring gauge anomaly cancellation and consistent fermion mass generation. Focusing on the $^8\mathrm{Be}$ and $^4\mathrm{He}$ signals, we show that in this model the viable parameter space to resolve the ATOMKI anomalies is also consistent with a diverse set of experimental constraints, including atomic parity violation, beam dump experiments, meson decays, and neutrino nucleus and neutrino electron scatterings. Our results demonstrate that this framework offers a theoretically sound and phenomenologically robust solution to the ATOMKI anomaly.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Dark Matter Induced Proton Decays

We propose a novel theoretical framework in which proton decay is induced by the dark matter. While proton decay requires violation of the $B+L$ symmetry, dark matter stability often relies on the presence of an unbroken symmetry. These seemingly distinct phenomena are unified through the global $U(1)_{B+L}$ symmetry inherent in the Standard Model. Its spontaneous breaking leads to a residual $Z_4$ symmetry, which ensures dark matter stability and forbids proton decay at tree level. Consequently, proton decay occurs at the one-loop level, mediated by dark sector particles. The proton lifetime is linked with the dark matter, the heavier dark matter mass enhancing proton stability, and vice versa. The $\mathcal{O}$(TeV) masses of the mediators remain consistent with current proton lifetime limits, making them accessible to experimental searches. In particular, the leptoquark mediating proton decay, carrying exotic $B+L$ charges, leads to a distinctive signature in collider searches. By intertwining proton decay, dark matter stability, and collider phenomenology, this framework offers distinctive signatures that can be probed in current and future experiments.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Light and Heavy $Z'$ from Flavored Chiral $U(1)_X$ Gauge Symmetries: Purely Axial and Mixed Vector-Axial Couplings

Model independent phenomenological studies, ranging from neutrino to B-physics, often consider effective interactions involving either purely vector (V), purely axial vector (A), or mixed vector and axial vector (V, A) couplings. While pure vector $Z'$ interactions can naturally emerge in gauged $U(1)_X$ extensions of the Standard Model, such as the $B-L$ model, generating other coupling structures from a UV complete theory is highly nontrivial. To realize such couplings, we propose a new class of flavor specific chiral $U(1)_X$ gauge symmetries. Gauge anomaly cancellation is achieved by introducing three right-handed neutrinos charged under the $U(1)_X$ symmetry. We systematically classify anomaly free charge assignments and analyze viable ultraviolet completions with minimal scalar content, requiring no additional fermions beyond the three necessary for anomaly cancellation. We present several benchmark models illustrating the range of possible charge assignments, under which the quark and lepton flavor structures can differ substantially, leading to distinct phenomenological signatures. In particular, such non universal charge configurations naturally give rise to $Z'$ mediated flavor changing neutral currents in both the quark and lepton sectors. We also demonstrate that, within this framework, the $Z'$ boson can naturally acquire purely axial vector or mixed vector-axial couplings to the SM fermions, both in the heavy and light $Z'$ regimes.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Dark hyperCharge Symmetry

We introduce a new class of $U(1)_X$ symmetries where all Standard Model fermions are ``chiral," i.e., the left- and right-handed components have different charges under the $U(1)_X$ symmetry. Gauge anomaly cancellation is achieved by introducing three Standard Model gauge singlet dark fermions ($f^i$; $i=1,2,3$) charged under this symmetry. We systematically present chiral solutions for cases in which (a) one, (b) two, or (c) all three generations of Standard Model fermions are charged under the $U(1)_X$ symmetry. The $U(1)_X$ charges of these dark fermions are uniquely determined by anomaly cancellation conditions. These new fermions belong to the dark sector, with the lightest of them being a good dark matter candidate. Additionally, the $Z'$ gauge boson mediates interactions between the dark and visible sectors, and we call this $U(1)_X$ symmetry as the ``dark hyperCharge" symmetry. Using a benchmark model, we explore phenomenological implications in the heavy $Z'$ case ($M_{Z'} > M_Z$), analyzing collider constraints and examining the lightest dark fermion's viability as dark matter. Our analysis shows that it satisfies all current dark matter constraints over a wide range of dark matter mass.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

Primordial black holes as cosmic accelerators of light dark matter: Novel direct detection constraints

Current multi-tonne-scale dark matter (DM) detectors are largely incapable of detecting light dark matter from the Galactic halo due to the energy threshold limitations of their recoil measurements. However, primordial black holes (PBHs) can evaporate via Hawking radiation to particles whose energies are set by the black hole temperature. Consequently, weakly interacting light dark matter (or dark radiation) particles produced in this manner can reach the Earth with sufficient flux and kinetic energy above the experimental thresholds. This opens up a novel avenue to probe the light dark sector in terrestrial experiments. In this work, we explore this possibility by considering fermionic DM produced through PBH evaporation and investigating its electron recoil signatures in direct detection experiments. We analyze both energy independent (constant) and energy dependent (scalar and vector mediated) DM-electron interactions, highlighting the strong dependence of the recoil spectra on the underlying Lorentz structure of the interaction. In addition, we also account for the attenuation effects due to the loss of kinetic energy while DM traverses through Earth's crust, which can significantly modify the incoming DM flux. Incorporating these effects carefully, we place constraints on light DM using the electron recoil data from XENONnT, LZ, and PandaX-4T. Finally, we also discuss the detection prospects of such dark matter in current and future generation neutrino detectors, such as Super-Kamiokande and Hyper-Kamiokande.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2026

$h \to Υγ$ Decay: Smoking Gun Signature of Wrong-Sign $hb\bar{b}$ Coupling

We perform a model-independent study of new physics effects in the Higgs decay $h \to Υγ$, focusing on scenarios that spoil the accidental cancellation between the direct and indirect amplitudes. After imposing all existing constraints from Higgs production and decay measurements, we find that a wrong-sign $h b\bar b$ coupling is the only viable scenario capable of enhancing the $h \to Υγ$ decay width by nearly two orders of magnitude. Therefore, an observation of a significantly enhanced $h \to Υγ$ rate at the LHC or future colliders would provide unambiguous evidence for a wrong-sign $h b\bar b$ coupling, directly pointing to the presence of an extended Higgs sector.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

New light mediators and the neutrino fog: Implications from XENONnT nuclear recoil data

Current ton-scale, xenon-based dark matter (DM) direct detection experiments have now reached the sensitivity required to observe solar neutrinos, marking the onset of the so-called neutrino fog. In this work, we explore how this fog is modified when either neutrinos or DM interact with nuclei through a new scalar, vector or axial-vector interaction, considering both heavy and light mediators. Using the latest nuclear-recoil data from XENONnT, which show indications of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering from $^8$B solar neutrinos, we derive new strong bounds on couplings of light mediators. We find that these limits are significantly more stringent when the mediator couples to DM, rather than when new physics affects only neutrino interactions. Building on these results, we recompute the expected neutrino fog and compare it with the corresponding constraints on spin-independent and spin-dependent DM-nucleon interactions. We show that the morphology of the neutrino fog can be markedly modified if either neutrinos or DM interact with nuclei through light mediators, even in light of these recent constraints.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Zooming in on `bi-large' neutrino mixing with the first JUNO results

The leptonic mixing matrix is examined within bi-large mixing patterns and confronted with the latest results announced by the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO). We analyze the viability of bi large mixing schemes and assess JUNO's ability to test neutrino mixing and discriminate among different bi-large mixing patterns, some of which are strongly disfavored when compared with neutrino oscillation global-fit results. Specific octant and CP predictions emerge. Finally, we comment on the implications of JUNO's findings for neutrinoless double beta decay.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Flavor Imprints on Novel Low Mass Dark Matter

We present a Majorana scotogenic-like loop framework in which neutrino mass generation and dark matter stability are intrinsically connected to the breaking of the discrete flavor symmetry $A_4$. This breaking leads to the emergence of the scoto-seesaw mechanism and a $Z_2$ symmetry. This naturally explains the solar and atmospheric mass-squared differences, $Δm_{sol}^{2}$ and $Δm_{atm}^{2}$, while simultaneously ensuring dark matter stability. Our model accommodates normal ordering of neutrino masses, with a generalized $μ$-$τ$ reflection symmetry shaping the structure of leptonic mixing and a lower limit on the lightest neutrino mass. Moreover, the model provides predictions for the octant of $θ_{23}$ and a strong correlation between $Δm_{sol}^{2}$ and $Δm_{atm}^{2}$. This correlation puts a lower bound on the fermionic DM mass. In contrast, scalar dark matter remains viable over a broad mass spectrum. A notable feature is that the low mass regime ($\sim 15$ GeV onwards) survives owing to the presence of efficient co-annihilation channels, which are typically absent in the Majorana scotogenic scenario. Additionally, the model aligns with current and future limits from lepton flavor violation experiments.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Type-III Scotogenic Model: Inflation, Dark Matter and Collider Phenomenology

We investigate an extension of the Type-III scotogenic model by incorporating a real singlet scalar. This scalar plays a crucial role as the inflaton due to its non-minimal coupling with the Ricci scalar. The inflaton field subsequently decays into other particles within the Type-III scotogenic framework. In this framework, the inert scalar doublet and fermion triplet are crucial for neutrino mass generation and present strong candidates for 25\% energy budget or dark matter in the Universe. We study their relic abundance and potential for direct detection. Furthermore, we discuss possible observational signals that could be identified in future collider experiments.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

$B-L$ model in light of the CDF II result

Recent CDF II collaboration's result on $W$ mass measurements contradict Standard Model prediction, requiring new physics to explain this anomaly. Such new physics may manifest through tree-level or loop-level corrections to the mass of the $W$ boson. In this work, we investigate the possibility that the CDF-II result is indicative of new physics not directly changing the $W$ boson mass but rather the $Z$ boson mass. Since the $Z$ boson mass goes as an input into the Standard Model prediction for $W$ boson mass, this change in $Z$ mass ultimately leads to the discrepancy between the CDF-II measurement and the Standard Model expectation. We demonstrate this idea through one of the simplest and most studied $U(1)$ gauge extensions of the Standard Model, namely the gauged $U(1)_{B-L}$ extension. We demonstrate that $B-L$ extended models can explain the revised best-fit values for $S$, $T$, and $U$ following the CDF II results. We studied the parameter space of models with and without mixing between neutral gauge bosons. We also reviewed the dark matter constraints and demonstrated that there is parameter space that is compatible with the current $W$ boson mass, relic abundance, and direct detection experiments.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Dirac Scoto Inverse-Seesaw from $A_4$ Flavor Symmetry

We present a Dirac scotogenic-like one loop radiative model where the stability of dark matter is intricately linked to the breaking of $A_4$ flavor symmetry. This breaking induces a $Z_2$ dark symmetry, stabilizing the dark matter candidate. The breaking of $A_4 \to Z_2$ leads to cutting the loop and facilitating a "scoto inverse-seesaw" mass mechanism responsible for neutrino mass generation. This elucidates the explicit explanation of two mass-squared differences, $Δm^2_{\rm{atm}}$ and $Δm^2_{\rm{sol}}$ observed in neutrino oscillations. Our model accounts for normal and inverted ordering of neutrino masses, revealing sharp correlations between $\sum m_i$ and $\langle m_β \rangle$. It also shows strong compatibility with current data in the $δ_{CP}$-$θ_{23}$ plane. Moreover, stringent constraints on scalar masses narrow down the viable dark matter mass regions, accommodating $SU(2)_L$ singlet and doublet scalar dark matter as well as fermionic dark matter. Additionally, our model presents a viable avenue for addressing lepton flavor violating decays while remaining consistent with current experimental constraints.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Probing conventional and new physics at the ESS with coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering

We explore the potential of the European Spallation Source (ESS) in probing physics within and beyond the Standard Model (SM), based on future measurements of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CE$ν$NS). We consider two SM physics cases, namely the weak mixing angle and the nuclear radius. Regarding physics beyond the SM, we focus on neutrino generalized interactions (NGIs) and on various aspects of sterile neutrino and sterile neutral lepton phenomenology. For this, we explore the violation of lepton unitarity, active-sterile oscillations as well as interesting upscattering channels such as the sterile dipole portal and the production of sterile neutral leptons via NGIs. The projected ESS sensitivities are estimated by performing a statistical analysis considering the various CE$ν$NS detectors and expected backgrounds. We find that the enhanced statistics achievable in view of the highly intense ESS neutrino beam, will offer a drastic improvement in the current constraints obtained from existing CE$ν$NS measurements. Finally, we discuss how the ESS has the potential to provide the leading CE$ν$NS-based constraints, complementing also further experimental probes and astrophysical observations.

hep-ph↗

arXiv2025

Constraining low scale dark hypercharge symmetry at spallation, reactor and Dark Matter direct detection experiments

Coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus (CE$ν$NS) and elastic neutrino-electron scattering (E$ν$ES) data are exploited to constrain ``chiral'' $U(1)_{X}$ gauged models with light vector mediator mass. These models fall under a distinct class of new symmetries called dark hypercharge symmetries. A key feature is the fact that the $Z'$ boson can couple to all Standard Model fermions at tree level, with the $U(1)_X$ charges determined by the requirement of anomaly cancellation. Notably, the charges of leptons and quarks can differ significantly depending on the specific anomaly cancellation solution. As a result, different models exhibit distinct phenomenological signatures and can be constrained through various experiments. In this work, we analyze the recent data from the COHERENT experiment, along with results from dark matter (DM) direct detection experiments such as XENONnT, LUX-ZEPLIN, and PandaX-4T, and place new constraints on three benchmark models. Additionally, we set constraints from a performed analysis of TEXONO data and discuss the prospects of improvement in view of the next-generation DM direct detection DARWIN experiment.

hep-ph↗