Maximal Acceleration Limits on the Mass of the Higgs Boson

Caianiello's quantum geometrical model with maximal acceleration places the upper limit $\mu\leq 719.5$ GeV on the mass of the Higgs boson. The model also provides an equation linking the mass of the W boson to the Higgs mass $\mu$ and independent symmetry breaking and mass generating mechanisms. These may further restrict the value of $\mu$.Comment: LaTex file, 13 pages, to be published in Il Nuovo Cimento

Double Scalar-Tensor Gravity Cosmologies

We investigate homogeneous and isotropic cosmological models in scalar-tensor theories of gravity where two scalar fields are nonminimally coupled to the geometry. Exact solutions are found, by Noether symmetries, depending on the form of couplings and self-interaction potentials. An interesting feature is that we deal with the Brans-Dicke field and the inflaton on the same ground since both are nonminimally coupled and not distinguished {\it a priori} as in earlier models. This fact allows to improve dynamics to get successful extended inflationary scenarios. Double inflationary solutions are also discussed.Comment: LaTex file, 18 pages, no figures, 2 tables, to appear in Grav. & Cos

Propagation of quantum particles in Brans-Dicke spacetime. The case of Gamma Ray Bursts

The propagation of boson particles in a gravitational field described by the Brans-Dicke theory of gravity is analyzed. We derive the wave function of the scalar particles, and the effective potential experienced by the quantum particles considering the role of the varying gravitational coupling. Besides, we calculate the probability to find the scalar particles near the region where a naked singularity is present. The extremely high energy radiated in such a situation could account for the huge emitted power observed in Gamma Ray Bursts.Comment: 9 pages, 5 figures, contributed paper to the Special Issue: "Fundamental Constants in Physics and Their Time Variation", Modern Physics Letters A, Guest Ed. Joan Sol\`

Neutrino Oscillations in Brans-Dicke Theory of Gravity

Flavor oscillations of neutrinos are analyzed in the framework of Brans-Dicke theory of gravity. We find a shift of quantum mechanical phase of neutrino proportional to $G_N\Delta m^2$ and depending on the parameter $\omega$. Consequences on atmospheric, solar and astrophysical neutrinos are discussed.Comment: 9 pages, LATEX file, to appear in Mod. Phys. Lett.