Search for new π0-like particles produced in association with a τ-lepton pair

Abstract

We report on a search in e + e − annihilations for new π 0 -like particles produced in association with a τ -lepton pair. These objects, with a similar mass and similar decay modes to π 0 mesons, could provide an explanation for the non-asymptotic behavior of the pion-photon transition form factor observed by the BABAR Collaboration. No significant signal is observed, and limits on the production cross section at the level of 73 fb or 370 fb, depending on the model parameters, are determined at 90% confidence level. These upper limits lie below the cross section values needed to explain the BABAR form factor data.