Search for D⁰-D̄⁰ mixing in D⁰ --> K⁺ [pi]⁻ [pi]⁻ [pi]⁺ decays

Abstract

We present results of a search for D⁰-D̄⁰ mixing by analyzing D⁰ --> K⁺ [pi]⁻ [pi]⁻ [pi]⁺ decays from events in 230.4 fb-1 e+e- data recorded by BABAR. Assuming CP conservation, we measure the time-integrated mixing rate RM = (0.0019 ... (stat.) ± 0.002 (syst.))%, and RM < 0.048% at 95% confidence. Using a frequentist method, we estimate that the data are consistent with no mixing at 4.3% confidence level. We present results both with and without the assumption of CP conservation.