arXiv subjects

Veronica Sanz

Publications and source records attributed to Veronica Sanz.

At least 73 records · Page 4Linked to original sources

arXiv2017

On new physics searches with multidimensional differential shapes

In the context of upcoming new physics searches at the LHC, we investigate the impact of multidimensional differential rates in typical LHC analyses. We discuss the properties of shape information, and argue that multidimensional rates bring limited information in the scope of a discovery, but can have a large impact on model discrimination. We also point out subtleties about systematic uncertainties cancellations and the Cauchy-Schwarz bound on interference terms.

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arXiv2017

Dimension-6 Operator Analysis of the CLIC Sensitivity to New Physics

We estimate the possible accuracies of measurements at the proposed CLIC $e^+e^-$ collider of Higgs and $W^+W^-$ production at centre-of-mass energies up to 3TeV, incorporating also Higgsstrahlung projections at higher energies that had not been considered previously, and use them to explore the prospective CLIC sensitivities to decoupled new physics. We present the resulting constraints on the Wilson coefficients of dimension-6 operators in a model-independent approach based on the Standard Model effective field theory (SM EFT). The higher centre-of-mass energy of CLIC, compared to other projects such as the ILC and CEPC, gives it greater sensitivity to the coefficients of some of the operators we study. We find that CLIC Higgs measurements may be sensitive to new physics scales $Λ= \mathcal{O}(10)$TeV for individual operators, reduced to $\mathcal{O}(1)$ TeV sensitivity for a global fit marginalising over the coefficients of all contributing operators. We give some examples of the corresponding prospective constraints on specific scenarios for physics beyond the SM, including stop quarks and the dilaton/radion.

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arXiv2016

Reheating with a Composite Higgs

The flatness of the inflaton potential and lightness of the Higgs could have the common origin of the breaking of a global symmetry. This scenario provides a unified framework of Goldstone Inflation and Composite Higgs, where the inflaton and the Higgs both have a pseudo--Goldstone boson nature. The inflaton reheats the Universe via decays to the Higgs and subsequent secondary production of other SM particles via the top and massive vector bosons. We find that inflationary predictions and perturbative reheating conditions are consistent with CMB data for sub--Planckian values of the fields, as well as opening up the possibility of inflation at the TeV scale. We explore this exciting possibility, leading to an interplay between collider data and cosmological constraints.

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arXiv2016

Higher Order QCD predictions for Associated Higgs production with anomalous couplings to gauge bosons

We present predictions for the associated production of a Higgs boson at NLO+PS accuracy, including the effect of anomalous interactions between the Higgs and gauge bosons. We present our results in different frameworks, one in which the interaction vertex between the Higgs boson and Standard Model $W$ and $Z$ bosons is parameterized in terms of general Lorentz structures, and one in which Electroweak symmetry breaking is manifestly linear and the resulting operators arise through a six-dimensional effective field theory framework. We present analytic calculations of the Standard Model and Beyond the Standard Model contributions, and discuss the phenomenological impact of the higher order pieces. Our results are implemented in the NLO Monte Carlo program MCFM, and interfaced to shower Monte Carlos through the {\sc Powheg} box framework.

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arXiv2016

On the compatibility of the diboson excess with a gg-initiated composite sector

In this paper we explore the possibility that recent results by ATLAS and CMS searching for heavy resonances decaying into bosons could be a first hint of a new sector of pure-gauge confining physics, possibly linked to the origin of the Higgs as a Composite Higgs. The lightest resonances (glueballs) of this new sector would be neutral, spin-zero and -two, and their behaviour would resemble that of a radion and a massive graviton of extra-dimensions. We outline how LHC8 data could be used to improve sensitivity on this scenario, as well as future characterization during the LHC13 run.

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arXiv2016

On the Interpretation of a Possible $\sim 750$ GeV Particle Decaying into $γγ$

We consider interpretations of the recent $\sim 3 σ$ reports by the CMS and ATLAS collaborations of a possible $X(\sim 750~{\rm GeV})$ state decaying into $γγ$ final states. We focus on the possibilities that this is a scalar or pseudoscalar electroweak isoscalar state produced by gluon-gluon fusion mediated by loops of heavy fermions. We consider several models for these fermions, including a single vector-like charge $2/3$ T quark, a doublet of vector-like quarks $(T, B)$, and a vector-like generation of quarks, with or without leptons that also contribute to the $X \to γγ$ decay amplitude. We also consider the possibility that $X(750)$ is a dark matter mediator, with a neutral vector-like dark matter particle. These scenarios are compatible with the present and prospective direct limits on vector-like fermions from LHC Runs 1 and 2, as well as indirect constraints from electroweak precision measurements, and we show that the required Yukawa-like couplings between the $X$ particle and the heavy vector-like fermions are small enough to be perturbative so long as the $X$ particle has dominant decay modes into $gg$ and $γγ$. The decays $X \to Z Z, Z γ$ and $W^+ W^-$ are interesting prospective signatures that may help distinguish between different vector-like fermion scenarios.

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arXiv2016

Theoretical interpretation of a spin-two diphoton excess

A spin-two resonance would have couplings to the SM, suppressed via higher-dimensional operators. Therefore, a sizeable cross-section would indicate that the scale of additional new phenomena cannot be too far above the 750 GeV mark. Below I present some theoretical arguments to place the resonance in a wider framework: a manifestation of new extra-dimensions, or a glueball of a new strong sector. In each case, I identify some conditions the UV theory must satisfy to accommodate other experimental bounds. Based on those, I draw correlations with associated phenomena we expect to find in future searches.

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arXiv2016

The diphoton resonance as a gravity mediator of dark matter

We consider the possibility of interpreting the recently reported diphoton excess at 750 GeV as a spin-two massive particle (such as a Kaluza-Klein graviton in warped extra-dimensions) which serves as a mediator to Dark Matter via its gravitational couplings to the dark sector and to the Standard Model (SM). We model non-universal couplings of the resonance to gauge bosons in the SM and to Dark Matter as a function on their localization in the extra dimension. We find that scalar, fermion or vector dark matter can saturate the dark matter relic density by the annihilation of dark matter into a pair of the SM particles or heavy resonances, in agreement with the diphoton resonance signal strength. We check the compatibility of our hypothesis with other searches for the KK graviton. We show that the invisible decay rate of the resonance into a pair of dark matter is subdominant in the region of the correct relic density, hence leading to no constraints from the mono-jet bound at 8 TeV via the gluon coupling. We also discuss the kinematic features of the decay products of a KK graviton to distinguish the KK graviton from the SM backgrounds or a scalar particle interpretation of the diphoton resonance.

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arXiv2016

Exploring holographic Composite Higgs models

Simple Composite Higgs models predict new vector-like fermions not too far from the electroweak scale, yet LHC limits are now sensitive to the TeV scale. Motivated by this tension, we explore the holographic dual of the minimal model, MCHM5, to understand how far naive 4D predictions are from their 5D duals. Interestingly, we find that the usual hierarchy among the vector-like quarks is not generic, hence ameliorating the tuning issue. We find that lowering the UV cutoff in the 5D picture allows for heavier top partners, while keeping the mass of the Higgs boson at its observed value. In the 4D dual this corresponds to increasing the number of colours. This is essentially a Little Randall-Sundrum Model, which are known to reduce some flavour and electroweak constraints. Furthermore, in anticipation of the ongoing efforts at the LHC to put bounds on the top Yukawa, we demonstrate that deviations from the SM can be suppressed or enhanced with respect to what is expected from mere symmetry arguments in 4D. We conclude that the 5D holographic realisation of the MCHM5 with a small UV cutoff is not in tension with the current experimental data.

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arXiv2016

Towards model-independent exclusion of light Stops

Understanding the extent to which experimental searches are sensitive to Light Stops (LST) scenarios is essential to resolve questions about naturalness, electroweak baryogenesis and Dark Matter. In this paper we characterize the reach on LST scenarios in two ways. We extend experimental searches to cover specific gaps in the LST parameter space, showing for the first time that assuming a single decay channel one can exclude the region of $m_{\tilde{t}}<m_{top}$, which in its turn excludes electroweak baryogenesis in MSSM. Also, we explore the extent to which searches are weakened in a more generic scenario when more than one decay channel takes place, even after their combination. This study highlights the need for a more comprehensive exploration of the LST parameter space.

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arXiv2015

See-Saw Composite Higgses at the LHC: Linking Naturalness to the $750$ GeV Di-Photon Resonance

We explore the possibility of explaining the recent $\sim 750$ GeV excesses observed by ATLAS and CMS in the $γγ$ spectrum in the context of a compelling theory of Naturalness. The potential spin-zero resonance responsible for the excesses also requires the existence of new heavy charged states. We show that both such features are naturally realized in a see-saw Composite Higgs model for EWSB, where the new pseudo-Goldstone bosons are expected to be comparatively heavier than the SM Higgs, and the new fermions have masses in the TeV range. If confirmed, the existence of this new resonance could be the first stone in the construction of a new theory of Naturalness.

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arXiv2015

The Diboson Excess: Experimental Situation and Classification of Explanations; A Les Houches Pre-Proceeding

We examine the `diboson' excess at $\sim 2$ TeV seen by the LHC experiments in various channels. We provide a comparison of the excess significances as a function of the mass of the tentative resonance and give the signal cross sections needed to explain the excesses. We also present a survey of available theoretical explanations of the resonance, classified in three main approaches. Beyond that, we discuss methods to verify the anomaly, determining the major properties of the various surpluses and exploring how different models can be discriminated. Finally, we give a tabular summary of the numerous explanations, presenting their main phenomenological features.

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arXiv2015

Composite Higgses with seesaw EWSB

We introduce a new class of Composite Higgs models in which electroweak symmetry is broken by a seesaw-like mechanism. If a global symmetry is broken sequentially at different scales, two sets of pseudo-Goldstone bosons will arise, one set being typically heavier than the other. If two Composite Higgs doublets mix, then the mass-squared of the lighter state can be driven negative, and induce EWSB. We illustrate with the example $SO(6) \rightarrow SO(5) \rightarrow SO(4)$, and derive an estimate of the light Higgs potential. We find that the introduction of an extra scale can ease many of the tensions present in conventional Composite Higgs models, especially those related to fine-tuning. In particular we find that we can significantly raise the upper bound on the mass of the elusive top partners.

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arXiv2015

Benchmarks for Higgs Effective Theory: Extended Higgs Sectors

Precise measurements of SM particles properties at the LHC allows to look for heavy New Physics in the context of an Effective Field Theory (EFT). These searches, however, often rely on kinematic regions where the validity of the EFT may be compromised. In this paper we propose to address this issue by comparing with benchmark models. The connection between models and their manifestations as EFTs at low energies allows us to quantify the breakdown of the EFT, and describe ways to combine different sources of constraints beyond Higgs physics. To illustrate these techniques, in this paper we propose a set of benchmark models based on extensions of the Higgs sector, namely the inclusion of a singlet, a dilaton and generic 2HDMs. We obtain the matching between these models and the EFT involving the Higgs, electroweak bosons and fermions. We then describe current and future indirect and direct constraints, consider the effect of correlations among the coefficients within models, and discuss the validity of the EFT.

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arXiv2015

Goldstone Inflation

Identifying the inflaton with a pseudo-Goldstone boson explains the flatness of its potential. Successful Goldstone Inflation should also be robust against UV corrections, such as from quantum gravity: in the language of the effective field theory this implies that all scales are sub-Planckian. In this paper we present scenarios which realise both requirements by examining the structure of Goldstone potentials arising from Coleman-Weinberg contributions. We focus on single-field models, for which we notice that both bosonic and fermionic contributions are required and that spinorial fermion representations can generate the right potential shape. We then evaluate the constraints on non-Gaussianity from higher-derivative interactions, finding that axiomatic constraints on Goldstone boson scattering prevail over the current CMB measurements. The fit to CMB data can be connected to the UV completions for Goldstone Inflation, finding relations in the spectrum of new resonances. Finally, we show how hybrid inflation can be realised in the same context, where both the inflaton and the waterfall fields share a common origin as Goldstones.

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arXiv2015

Uncovering Natural Supersymmetry via the interplay between the LHC and Direct Dark Matter Detection

We have explored Natural Supersymmetry (NSUSY) scenarios with low values of the $μ$ parameter which are characterised by higgsino-like Dark Matter (DM) and compressed spectra for the lightest MSSM particles, $χ^0_1$, $χ^0_2$ and $χ^\pm_1$. This scenario could be probed via monojet signatures, but as the signal-to-background ratio (S/B) is low we demonstrate that the 8 TeV LHC cannot obtain limits on the DM mass beyond those of LEP2. On the other hand, we have found, for the 13 TeV run of the LHC, that by optimising kinematical cuts we can bring the S/B ratio up to the 5(3)% level which would allow the exclusion of the DM mass up to 200(250) GeV respectively, significantly extending LEP2 limits. Moreover, we have found that LUX/XENON1T and LHC do play very complementary roles in exploring the parameter space of NSUSY, as the LHC has the capability to access regions where DM is quasi-degenerate with other higgsinos, which are challenging for direct detection experiments.

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arXiv2015

Saving Natural Inflation

Slow-roll inflation requires the inflaton field to have an exceptionally flat potential, which combined with measurements of the scale of inflation demands some degree of fine-tuning. Alternatively, the flatness of the potential could be due to the inflaton's origin as a pseudo-Goldstone boson, as in Natural Inflation. Alas, consistency with Planck data places the original proposal of Natural Inflation in a tight spot, as it requires a trans-Planckian excursion of the inflaton. Although one can still tune the renormalizable potential to sub-Planckian values, higher order corrections from quantum gravity or sources of breaking of the Goldstone symmetry would ruin the predictivity of the model. In this paper we show how in more realistic models of Natural Inflation one could achieve inflation without a trans-Planckian excursion of the field. We show how a variant of Extra-natural inflation with bulk fermions can achieve the desired goal and discuss its four-dimensional duals. We also present a new type of four dimensional models inspired in Little Higgs and Composite Higgs models which can lead to sub-Planckian values of the inflaton field.

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arXiv2014

The Effective Standard Model after LHC Run I

We treat the Standard Model as the low-energy limit of an effective field theory that incorporates higher-dimensional operators to capture the effects of decoupled new physics. We consider the constraints imposed on the coefficients of dimension-6 operators by electroweak precision tests (EWPTs), applying a framework for the effects of dimension-6 operators on electroweak precision tests that is more general than the standard $S,T$ formalism, and use measurements of Higgs couplings and the kinematics of associated Higgs production at the Tevatron and LHC, as well as triple-gauge couplings at the LHC. We highlight the complementarity between EWPTs, Tevatron and LHC measurements in obtaining model-independent limits on the effective Standard Model after LHC Run~1. We illustrate the combined constraints with the example of the two-Higgs doublet model.

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