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Out of the string theory swampland

Researchers propose a new subset of string theories that incorporate dynamic tension could help describe the real universe without violating observational constraints. This approach may alleviate the 'swampland problem,' which has hindered conventional string theory's ability to reproduce inflation and dark energy.

SourceFoundational Questions Institute, FQXi·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 9, 2025

Paving the way for effective field theories

Effective field theories offer a unified description of complex systems, including atomic nuclei and biological systems. The collected studies demonstrate the relevance of these ideas to low-energy nuclear processes, paving the way for new advances in this field.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateFeb 1, 2021

Resolving tension on the surface of polymer mixes

Physicists Pendar Mahmoudi and Mark Matsen found a simple mathematical formula to describe the interfacial tension between immiscible short- and long-chain polymers. The molecular weight affects segregation levels, leading to universal dependences on polymer distribution.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateOct 11, 2017

Designing ion 'highway systems' for batteries

A Northwestern University team has developed a new understanding of plastics for battery applications by combining two traditional theories in materials science. This opens the door for a new class of batteries with improved safety and power efficiency. The researchers used block copolymers, which are self-assembling into nanostructure...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 9, 2014

Pinning down a proton

Researchers have developed a new method for describing proton and neutron binding in nuclei, enabling more accurate predictions of astrophysical reactions. This breakthrough may improve our understanding of star life cycles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 14, 2010