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S. Kovalenko

Publications and source records attributed to S. Kovalenko.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
arXiv2025

The Impact of Helium Exposure on the PMTs of the SuperNEMO Experiment

The performance of Hamamatsu 8" photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) of the type used in the SuperNEMO neutrinoless double-beta decay experiment (R5912-MOD), is investigated as a function of exposure to helium (He) gas. Two PMTs were monitored for over a year, one exposed to varying concentrations of He, and the other kept in standard atmospheric conditions as a control. Both PMTs were exposed to light signals generated by a Bi-207 radioactive source that provided consistent large input PMT signals similar to those that are typical of the SuperNEMO experiment. The energy resolution of PMT signals corresponding to 1 MeV energy scale determined from the Bi-207 decay spectrum, shows a negligible degradation with He exposure; however the rate of after-pulsing shows a clear increase with He exposure, which is modelled and compared to diffusion theory. A method for reconstructing the partial pressure of He within the PMT and a method for determining the He breakdown point, are introduced. The implications for long-term SuperNEMO operations are briefly discussed.

physics.ins-det↗
arXiv2023

On the Role of LHC and HL-LHC in Constraining Flavor Changing Neutral Currents

The Standard Model (SM) has no flavor-changing neutral current (FCNC) processes at the tree level. Therefore, processes featuring FCNC in new physics are tightly constrained by data. Typically, the lower bounds on the scale of new physics obtained from $K-\bar{K}$ or $B-\bar{B}$ mixing lie well above 10 TeV, surpassing the reach of current and future colliders. In this paper, we demonstrate, using a specific Z' model, that such limits can be severely weakened by applying certain parametrizations of the quark mixing matrices with no prejudice while maintaining the CKM matrix in agreement with the data. We highlight the valuable role of the often-overlooked D0 mixing in deriving robust FCNC limits and show that the LHC and HL-LHC are promising probes for flavor-changing interactions mediated by a Z' boson.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2022

Flavor changing interactions confronted with meson mixing and hadron colliders

We have witnessed some flavor anomalies appeared in the past years, and explanations based on extended gauge sectors are among the most popular solutions. These beyond the Standard Model (SM) theories often assume flavor changing interactions mediated by new vector bosons, but at the same time they could yield deviations from the SM in the $K^{0}-\bar{K}^{0}$, $D^{0}-\bar{D}^{0}$, $B^0_d-\bar{B^0}_d$ and $B^0_s-\bar{B^0}_s$ meson systems. Using up-to-date data on the mass difference of these meson systems, we derive lower mass bounds on vector mediators for two different parametrizations of the quark mixing matrices. Focusing on a well-motivated model, based on the fundamental representation of the weak SU(3) gauge group, we put our findings into perspective with current and future hadron colliders to conclude that meson mass systems can give rise to bounds much more stringent than those from high-energy colliders and that recent new physics interpretations of the $b\rightarrow s$ and $R(D^{\ast})$ anomalies are disfavored.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2022

Constraining 3-3-1 Models at the LHC and Future Hadron Colliders

In this work, we derive lower mass bounds on the Z' gauge boson based on the dilepton data from LHC with 13 TeV of center-of-mass energy, and forecast the sensitivity of the High-Luminosity-LHC with $L=3000 fb^{-1}$, the High-Energy LHC with $\sqrt{s}=27$ TeV, and also at the Future Circular Collider with $\sqrt{s}=100$ TeV. We take into account the presence of exotic and invisible decays of the Z' gauge boson to find a more conservative and robust limit, different from previous studies. We investigate the impact of these new decays channels for several benchmark models in the scope of two different 3-3-1 models. We found that in the most constraining cases, LHC with $139fb^{-1}$ can impose $m_{Z^{\prime}}>4$ TeV. Moreover, we forecast HL-LHC, HE-LHC, and FCC bounds that yield $m_{Z^{\prime}}>5.8$ TeV, $m_{Z^{\prime}}>9.9$ TeV, and $m_{Z^{\prime}}> 27$ TeV, respectively. Lastly, put our findings into perspective with dark matter searches to show the region of parameter space where a dark matter candidate with the right relic density is possible.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2021

Lepton Phenomenology of Stueckelberg Portal to Dark Sector

We propose an extension of the Standard Model (SM) with a $U_{A'}(1)$ gauge invariant dark dector connected to the SM via a new portal -- the Stueckelberg portal, arising in the framework of dark photon $A'$ mass generation via Stueckelberg mechanism. This portal opens through the effective dim=5 operators constructed from the covariant term of the auxiliary Stueckelberg scalar field $\sigma$ providing flavor non-diagonal renormalizable couplings of both $\sigma$ and $A'$ to the SM fermions $\psi$. The Stueckelberg scalar plays a role of Goldstone boson in the generation of mass of the Dark Photon. Contrary to the conventional kinetic mixing portal, in our scenario flavor diagonal $A'$-$\psi$ couplings are not proportional to the fermion charges and are, in general, flavor nondiagonal. These features drastically change the phenomenology of dark photon $A'$ relaxing or avoiding some previously established experimental constraints. We focus on the phenomenology of the described scenario of the Stueckelberg portal in the lepton sector and analyze the contribution of the dark sector fields $A'$ to the anomalous magnetic moment of muon $(g-2)_{\mu}$, lepton flavor violating decays $l_{i}\to l_{k}\gamma$ and $\mu-e$ conversion in nuclei. We obtain limits on the model parameters from the existing data on the corresponding observables.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2021

Improved exclusion limit for light dark matter from $e^+e^-$ annihilation in NA64

The current most stringent constraints for the existence of sub-GeV dark matter coupling to Standard Model via a massive vector boson $A^\prime$ were set by the NA64 experiment for the mass region $m_{A^\prime}\lesssim 250$ MeV, by analyzing data from the interaction of $2.84\cdot10^{11}$ 100-GeV electrons with an active thick target and searching for missing-energy events. In this work, by including $A^\prime$ production via secondary positron annihilation with atomic electrons, we extend these limits in the $200$-$300$ MeV region by almost an order of magnitude, touching for the first time the dark matter relic density constrained parameter combinations. Our new results demonstrate the power of the resonant annihilation process in missing energy dark-matter searches, paving the road to future dedicated $e^+$ beam efforts.

hep-ex↗
arXiv2020

Hunting down the X17 boson at the CERN SPS

Recently, the ATOMKI experiment has reported new evidence for the excess of $e^+ e^-$ events with a mass $\sim$17 MeV in the nuclear transitions of $^4$He, that they previously observed in measurements with $^8$Be. These observations could be explained by the existence of a new vector $X17$ boson. So far, the search for the decay $X17 \rightarrow e^+ e^-$ with the NA64 experiment at the CERN SPS gave negative results. Here, we present a new technique that could be implemented in NA64 aiming to improve the sensitivity and to cover the remaining $X17$ parameter space. If a signal-like event is detected, an unambiguous observation is achieved by reconstructing the invariant mass of the $X17$ decay with the proposed method. To reach this goal an optimization of the $X17$ production target, as well as an efficient and accurate reconstruction of two close decay tracks, is required. A dedicated analysis of the available experimental data making use of the trackers information is presented. This method provides independent confirmation of the NA64 published results [Phys. Rev. D101, 071101 (2020)], validating the tracking procedure. The detailed Monte Carlo study of the proposed setup and the background estimate shows that the goal of the proposed search is feasible.

hep-ex↗
arXiv2020

Vector-Like Leptons and Inert Scalar Triplet: Lepton Flavor Violation, $g-2$ and Collider Searches

We investigate simplified models involving an inert scalar triplet and vector-like leptons that can account for the muon $g-2$ anomaly. These simplified scenarios are embedded in a model that features W' and Z' bosons, which are subject to stringent collider bounds. The constraints coming from the muon $g-2$ anomaly are put into perspective with collider bounds, as well as bounds coming from lepton flavor violation searches. The region of parameter space that explains the $g-2$ anomaly is shown to be within reach of lepton flavor violation probes and future colliders such as HL-LHC and HE-LHC.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2019

Quark condensate seesaw mechanism for neutrino mass

We study a mechanism of generation of Majorana neutrino mass due to spontaneous breaking of chiral symmetry (SBCS) accompanied by the formation of a quark condensate. The effect of the condensate is transmitted to the neutrino sector via Lepton-Number Violating (LNV) lepton-quark dimension-$7$ operators known in the literature as an origin of the neutrino-mass-independent mechanism of neutrinoless double-beta ($0 \nu \beta \beta$) decay. The smallness of neutrino masses is due to a large ratio between the LNV scale and the scale of the SBCS. This is a new realization of the seesaw mechanism, which we dub the Quark Condensate SeeSaw (QCSS). We examine the predictions of the QCSS for $0 \nu \beta \beta$-decay and neutrino mass spectrum. We will show that our model predicts the normal neutrino mass ordering and narrow ranges of the neutrino masses.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2018

The interpolating formula for the $0\nu\beta\beta$-decay half-life in the case of light and heavy neutrino mass mechanisms

We revisit the "interpolating formula" proposed in our previous publication. It allows one to calculate the neutrinoless double beta decay ($0\nu\beta\beta$-decay) half-life for arbitrary neutrino mass without involvement of the complicated results for nuclear matrix elements (NME) obtained within specific nuclear structure models. The formula derives from the finding that the value of a properly normalized ratio of the NMEs for the light and heavy neutrino mass mechanisms weakly depends on isotope. From this fact it follows, in particular, that the light and heavy neutrino mass mechanisms can hardly be distinguished in a model independent way searching for $0\nu\beta\beta$-decay of different nuclei. Here we show that this formula holds for all the known nuclear structure approaches. We give a mathematical justification of our results examining analytical properties of the NMEs. We also consider several simplified benchmark scenarios within left-right symmetric models and analyze the conditions for the dominance of the light or heavy neutrino mass mechanisms in $0\nu\beta\beta$-decay.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2015

Longitudinal vector form factors in weak decays of nuclei

The longitudinal form factors of the weak vector current of particles with spin $ J = 1/2 $ and isospin $ I = 1/2 $ are determined by the mass difference and the charge radii of members of the isotopic doublets. The most promising reactions to measure these form factors are the reactions with large momentum transfers involving the spin-1/2 isotopic doublets with a maximum mass splitting. Numerical estimates of longitudinal form factors are given for nucleons and eight nuclear spin-1/2 isotopic doublets.

nucl-th↗
arXiv2015

Lie symmetry properties of nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations with gradient-dependent diffusivity

Complete descriptions of the Lie symmetries of a class of nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations with gradient-dependent diffusivity in one and two space dimensions are obtained. A surprisingly rich set of Lie symmetry algebras depending on the form of diffusivity and source (sink) in the equations is derived. It is established that there exists a subclass in 1-D space admitting an infinite-dimensional Lie algebra of invariance so that it is linearisable. A special power-law diffusivity with a fixed exponent, which leads to wider Lie invariance of the equations in question in 2-D space, is also derived. However, it is shown that the diffusion equation without a source term (which often arises in applications and is sometimes called the Perona-Malik equation) possesses no rich variety of Lie symmetries depending on the form of gradient-dependent diffusivity. The results of the Lie symmetry classification for the reduction to lower dimensionality, and a search for exact solutions of the nonlinear 2-D equation with power-law diffusivity, also are included.

math-ph↗
arXiv2014

Fermion masses and mixings in an $SU(5)$ grand unified model with an extra flavor symmetry

We propose a model based on the $SU(5)$ grand unification with an extra $A_{4}\otimes Z_{2}\otimes Z_{2}^{\prime }\otimes Z_{2}^{\prime \prime}\otimes U\left( 1\right) _{f}$ flavor symmetry, which accounts for the pattern of the SM fermion masses and mixings. The observed hierarchy of charged fermion masses and quark mixing matrix elements arises from a generalized Froggatt-Nielsen mechanism triggered by a scalar $\mathbf{24}$ representation of $SU(5)$ charged under the global $U(1)_{f}$ and acquiring a VEV at the GUT scale. The light neutrino masses are generated via a radiative seesaw mechanism with a single heavy Majorana neutrino and neutral scalars running in the loops. The model predictions for both quark and lepton sectors are in good agreement with the experimental data. The model predicts an effective Majorana neutrino mass, relevant for neutrinoless double beta decay, with values $m_{\beta \beta }=$ 4 and 50 meV for the normal and the inverted neutrino spectrum, respectively. The model also features a suppression of CP violation in neutrino oscillations, a low scale for the heavy Majorana neutrino (few TeV) and, due to the unbroken $Z_{2}$ symmetry, a natural dark matter candidate.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2013

Neutrino propagation in nuclear medium and neutrinoless double-beta decay

We discuss a novel effect in neutrinoless double beta (0{\nu}{\beta}{\beta}) decay related with the fact that its underlying mechanisms take place in the nuclear matter environment. We study the neutrino exchange mechanism and demonstrate the possible impact of nuclear medium via Lepton Number Violating (LNV) 4-fermion interactions of neutrino with quarks from decaying nucleus. The net effect of these interactions is generation of an effective in-medium Majorana neutrino mass matrix. The enhanced rate of the 0{\nu}{\beta}{\beta}-decay can lead to the apparent incompatibility of observations of the 0{\nu}{\beta}{\beta}-decay with the value of the neutrino mass determined or restricted by the {\beta}-decay and cosmological data. The effective neutrino masses and mixing are calculated for the complete set of the relevant 4-fermion neutrino-quark operators. Using experimental data on the 0{\nu}{\beta}{\beta}-decay in combination with the {\beta}-decay and cosmological data we evaluate the characteristic scales of the LNV operators: {\Lambda} > 2.4 TeV.

hep-ph↗
arXiv2010

Selected aspects of the condensed matter physics. Work and life of Professor B.Ya. Sukharevsky

The paper contains a short description of the scientific papers of Professor Boris Ya. Sukharevsky on condensed matter physics. His basic scientific activity was related to following directions: structural vacancies concept; influence of point defects on statics and kinetics of phase transitions; DNA crystallization and low-dimensional systems properties; phase transitions in Jahn-Teller crystals; Thermophysics of superconductors e.a. The list of most essential papers of Prof. B.Ya. Sukharevsky is included.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗
arXiv2008

Abnormally large changes in anharmonicity of intramolecular vibrations in free clusters of nitrogen

Cathodoluminescence VUV spectra of free pure nitrogen clusters produced by condensation of gas mixtures in supersonic jets expanding into vacuum were studied. The clusters were of icosahedral structure, as evidenced by our electron diffraction measurements, i.e., quasicrystals, and contained about 1000 atoms. The cluster temperature was about 40 K. The luminescence spectra measured in the range of 45,000-75,000 cm^-1 clearly showed three vibronic w -> X series of transitions from the excited 'w' to the ground 'X' state, which are intrinsic to nitrogen molecules. All the transitions revealed a strong dependence of the matrix shift of their peak positions on vibration quantum number, while for bulk samples of N2 the matrix shift is known to remain unchanged. Our analysis showed that in clusters the vibrational anharmonicity parameter changes drastically for both the upper and lower states, while the change in the vibrational frequencies is much less prominent. The results obtained provide information about an abnormally strong influence of cluster environment on the nonlinear contribution to the vibrations of nitrogen molecules.

physics.atm-clus↗
arXiv2006

Extended Black Box Theorem for Lepton Number and Flavor Violating processes

We revisit the well known "Black Box" theorem establishing a fundamental relation between the amplitude of neutrinoless double beta decay and the effective Majorana neutrino mass. We extend this theorem to the general case of arbitrary lepton number and lepton flavor violating (LFNV) processes and to the three generation Majorana neutrino mass matrix. We demonstrate the existence of a general set of one-to-one correspondence relations between the effective operators generating these processes, and elements of the neutrino mass matrix, such that if one of these two quantities vanishes the other is guaranteed to vanish as well, and moreover, if one of these quantities is non-zero the other is guaranteed to be non-zero. We stress that this statement remains valid even in the presence of arbitrary new physics contributions. As a particularly important example, we then show that neutrino oscillation data imply that neutrinoless double beta decay must occur at a certain non-zero rate.

hep-ph↗