Regularization techniques for the radiative corrections of Wilson lines and Kaluza-Klein states

Abstract

Within an effective field theory framework we compute the most general structure of the one-loop corrections to the 4D gauge couplings in one- and two-dimensional orbifold compactifications with nonvanishing constant gauge background (Wilson lines). Although such models are nonrenormalizable, we keep the analysis general by considering the one-loop corrections in three regularization schemes: dimensional regularization (DR), zeta-function regularization (ZR), and proper-time cutoff regularization (PT). The relations among the results obtained in these schemes are carefully addressed. With minimal redefinitions of the parameters involved, the results obtained for the radiative corrections can be applied to most orbifold compactifications with one or two compact dimensions. The link with string theory is discussed. We mention a possible implication for the gauge coupling unification in such models.