The $\gamma$-positivity of basic Eulerian polynomials via group actions

Abstract

We provide combinatorial interpretation for the $\gamma$-coefficients of the basic Eulerian polynomials that enumerate permutations by the excedance statistic and the major index as well as the corresponding $\gamma$-coefficients for derangements. Our results refine the classical $\gamma$-positivity results for the Eulerian polynomials and the derangement polynomials. The main tools are Br\"and\'en's modified Foata--Strehl action on permutations and the recent triple statistic (des, rix,aid) equidistibuted with (exc, fix, maj).