Abstract: The Ising–Higgs model is a paradigmatic example of phases and phase transitions that transcend the standard Landau–Ginzburg–Wilson framework. We investigate exotic critical phenomena along its self-dual line, focusing on two distinct regimes: the "even" vacuum sector and the "odd" finite-anyon-density sector. In the even sector, we employ a machine-learning technique based on real-space mutual information optimization to demonstrate that the Higgs–confinement multicritical point lacks a conserved current operator. This finding challenges conjectures proposing an emergent U(1) symmetry at the intersection of Ising* critical lines. In the odd sector, the Higgs and confinement transitions become fundamentally intertwined with valence-bond-solid (VBS) order due to geometric frustration, leading to an intersection of U(1)* critical lines. Our DMRG simulations reveal a simultaneous transition involving Higgs–confinement physics, self-duality breaking, and VBS ordering. Notably, the VBS order exhibits a cascade of incommensurate patterns with progressively increasing length scales before ultimately giving way to a quantum paramagnet. If time permits, I will also discuss a novel statistical-mechanics representation of the Ising–Higgs model that maps the Monte Carlo sampling problem onto a linear-algebra problem and greatly alleviates critical slowing down.

Abstract: I will present a general analysis for the discovery potential of CP-violation (CPV) searches in scattering processes at TeV-scale colliders in an effective field theory approach. The CP-violating sector of the SMEFT framework is examined in some well motivated limiting cases, based on flavour symmetries of the underlying heavy theory. In particular, it is argued that under naturality arguments of the underlying new physics (NP) and in the absence of (or suppressed) flavour-changing interactions, there is only a single operator which alters the top-Yukawa coupling and which can generate a non-negligible CPV effect from tree-level SM x NP interference terms. I will show, however, that CPV from this operator is expected to be at best of O(1%) and, therefore, very challenging if at all measurable at the LHC or other future high-energy colliders. It is then concluded that a potentially measurable CPV effect, of O(10%), can arise in high-energy scattering processes ONLY if flavour-changing interactions are present in the underlying NP; in this case a sizable CPV effect can be generated at the tree level by pure NP x NP effects and not from SM x NP interference. Several examples of CPV at the LHC and at a future electron-positron collider will be provided to support these statements.

Abstract: Entropy is one of the key thermodynamic variables reflecting changes in the state of many-particle systems. Unlike other thermodynamic variables, it is well-defined also for nonequilibrium steady states through its relation to information. Applying this relation to physical systems is an ongoing challenge, as it requires knowledge of microscopic high-dimensional continuous distributions which is generally unattainable. A set of new approaches for the measurement of entropy in nonequilibrium steady or absorbing states have been developed and successfully applied to identify dynamic structures and transitions in diverse systems, ranging from jammed packings to swarming bacteria. After a brief review of these approaches we will focus on two methods that give upper bounds for the entropy without sampling microscopic distributions. One uses spatial correlation functions, and the other exploits a recently discovered relation between steady-state entropy and kinetic coefficients. We will demonstrate the validity and usefulness of these methods in several examples of systems far from equilibrium.

Abstract: The centers of galaxies host both a supermassive black hole (SMBH) and a dense stellar cluster. Physical collisions between stars in such an environment can involve sufficiently high velocities so that the colliding stars are completely destroyed. Destructive collisions (DCs) are therefore inevitable, but at what rate? How do they compare, and possibly compete, with other stellar destruction mechanisms that are unique to galactic nuclei? It appears that stars captured through tidal disruption of binaries by the SMBH hold the key to the DC rate, which should be astrophysically significant, and may even be comparable to that of tidal disruption events (TDEs). Given the total energy, mass and location of DCs, the primary flare that follows them should also be similar to that of TDEs, as streams of the disrupted gas shock each other while flowing toward the central black hole. Some potential differences from TDEs may, however, allow to observationally identify DCs as a separate subclass of bright nuclear transients.

Abstract: Microtubules are one of the major components of the cytoskeleton. They are involved in many key functions of eukaryotic cells, including cell division, intracellular transport, cell motility, and cell shape. Microtubules are hollow tubules made of parallel filaments, formed by active (non-equilibrium) self-organization of tubulin dimers. The dynamic self-organization of tubulin is facilitated by its GTPase activity. Tubulin self-assembles with microtubule-associated proteins and other factors into a wide range of morphologies, including tubulin rings, MT bundles, and the spindle apparatus, segregating chromosomes during cell division. In this talk, we shall discuss recent insight into the intimate link between tubulin -biochemistry, -structure, -interactions, -dynamics, -stability, -assembly, -disassembly, and -mechanical properties. We shall then focus on recent time-resolved solution X-ray scattering analysis of tubulin self-organization below and above the critical conditions for microtubule assembly, or upon addition of tau or spermine. Tau enahance tubulin assembly into micortubules. Spermine promotes a range of hierarchical tubulin spiral structures, including conical tubulin spirals, tubules of conical spirals, and inverted helical tubules, whose curvature and dimensions can be controlled. Microtubule formation is an important target for drugs to treat conditions like gout and a wide range of cancers. Understanding the polymerization mechanism could help in the design of future drugs and in the development of active biomaterials that promote the remodeling or regeneration of tissue after disease or injury.



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