38 research outputs found
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Particle physics implications and constraints on dark matter interpretations of the CDMS signal
Recently the CDMS collaboration has reported an excess of events in the signal region of a search for dark matter scattering with Silicon nuclei [R. Agnese (CDMS Collaboration), Phys. Rev. Lett. 111, 251301 (2013)]. Three events on an expected background of 0.4 have a significance of about 2σ, and it is premature to conclude that this is a signal of dark matter. Nonetheless, it is important to examine the space of particle theories capable of explaining this excess, to see what theories are capable of explaining it, and how one might exclude it or find corroborating evidence in other channels. We examine a simplified model containing a scalar mediator particle and find regions consistent with the CDMS observations. Bounds from colliders put important restrictions on the theory, but viable points, including points leading to the observed thermal relic density, survive. © 2014 American Physical Society
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Hidden on-shell mediators for the Galactic Center γ -ray excess
We present simplified models for the galactic center γ-ray excess where Dirac dark matter annihilates into pairs or triplets of on-shell bosonic mediators to the standard model. These annihilation modes allow the dark matter mass to be heavier than those of conventional effective theories for the γ-ray excess. Because the annihilation rate is set by the dark matter-mediator coupling, the standard model coupling can be made parametrically small to "hide" the dark sector by suppressing direct detection and collider signals. We explore the viability of these models as a thermal relic and on the role of the mediators for controlling the γ-ray spectral shape. We comment on ultraviolet completions for these simplified models and novel options for standard model final states. © 2014 American Physical Society
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Dark matter in the coming decade: Complementary paths to discovery and beyond
In this report we summarize the many dark matter searches currently being pursued through four complementary approaches: direct detection, indirect detection, collider experiments, and astrophysical probes. The essential features of broad classes of experiments are described, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The complementarity of the different dark matter searches is discussed qualitatively and illustrated quantitatively in two simple theoretical frameworks. Our primary conclusion is that the diversity of possible dark matter candidates requires a balanced program drawing from all four approaches
Reproductive Justice: A Case-Based, Interactive Curriculum
IntroductionReproductive injustices such as forced sterilization, preventable maternal morbidity and mortality, restricted access to family planning services, and policy-driven environmental violence undermine reproductive autonomy and health outcomes, with disproportionate impact on historically marginalized communities. However, curricula focused on reproductive justice (RJ) are lacking in medical education.MethodsWe designed a novel, interactive, case-based RJ curriculum for postclerkship medical students. This curriculum was created using published guidelines on best practices for incorporating RJ in medical education. The session included a prerecorded video on the history of RJ, an article, and four interactive cases. Students engaged in a 2-hour small-group session, discussing key learning points of each case. We evaluated the curriculum's impact with a pre- and postsurvey and focus group.ResultsSixty-eight students participated in this RJ curriculum in October 2020 and March 2021. Forty-one percent of them completed the presurvey, and 46% completed the postsurvey. Twenty-two percent completed both surveys. Ninety percent of respondents agreed that RJ was relevant to their future practice, and 87% agreed that participating in this session would impact their clinical practice. Most respondents (81%) agreed that more RJ content is needed. Focus group participants appreciated the case-based, interactive format and the intersectionality within the cases.DiscussionThis interactive curriculum is an innovative and effective way to teach medical students about RJ and its relevance to clinical practice. Walking alongside patients as they accessed reproductive health care in a case-based curriculum improved students' comfort and self-reported knowledge on several RJ topics