| This page contains answers to some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for conference presentations. |
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Q: BR(Higgs→bb) is much larger... how can the di-tau channel be competitive?
A: The di-tau channel allows searches for inclusive Higgs production. At this time, bb is restricted to production in association with one or two b-quarks to suppress large multi-jet backgrounds.
Q: Does CDF have a result for the bb channel?
A: Yes. Results with 1 fb-1 of data are available. CDF is in the process of updating them with more data and improved techniques.
Q: Are there any projections for higher luminosities?
A: CDF and D0 have made projections based on the results obtained with ~300 pb-1 for integrated luminosities of 2, 4, 8 fb-1. We consider them to be obsolete. Newer projections based on the current result have been made, however, they assume exactly the same procedure and sensitivity as in this iteration (which is on the conservative side). Therefore, we have chosen to work toward a speedy update of the result and then provide "high-luminosity" projections.
Q: What is mvis and why does the Z peak appear at lower mass?
A: mvis is a discriminating variable (look in the Public Note for definition) and involves partial mass reconstruction.
Q: Why don't you use full mass reconstruction by projecting missing transverse energy on the directions of the visible tau decay products?
A: This method works for cases of significant recoil of Higgs against jets (the taus are not back-to-back in the transverse plane). At the current data size, the benefits are offset by large loss of efficiency. Example plots for the current data sample are shown here. In the update of the results we will apply a combined approach where these events are treated separately.
Q: What happened to the small excess of events observed with 1.0 fb-1 of data?
A: Unfortunately the excess was not statistically significant and is no longer present. We are working on improving the sensitivity of the search and will have more answers with the upcoming update.
Q: What is next?
A: We still have some cards up our sleeves. Check for updates - we intend to implement considerable improvements on a short time scale.
