Probing Strong Interactions with Holographic Defects
New research leverages the AdS/CFT correspondence to calculate correlation functions in defect conformal field theories, offering a powerful tool for understanding strongly coupled systems.
New research leverages the AdS/CFT correspondence to calculate correlation functions in defect conformal field theories, offering a powerful tool for understanding strongly coupled systems.

Many fans consider Mask of the Phantasm to be the definitive Batman movie. Its exploration of the characters’ backstories is more impactful than even Batman Begins. Despite initially underperforming at the box office, the film is now seen as essential viewing for anyone interested in the history of this iconic superhero. While not perfect, Batman: Mask of the Phantasm stands above all other Batman films.

Disney Lorcana has become very popular since it launched, quickly gaining fans among both Disney lovers and trading card game players. Some of its gameplay is even being compared to Magic: The Gathering. While some players weren’t thrilled with the recent changes to the game’s format, Ravensburger plans to continue releasing four new sets each year, and 2026 promises a lot of new content, starting this February.

Video games sometimes tell stories that become truly legendary. While often overlooked, a well-crafted narrative can be just as captivating as a classic play – think Shakespeare, which still resonates with audiences today. We’re having a bit of fun comparing games to Shakespeare, but it’s wonderful to recognize the talented writers behind these immersive experiences.

Monkey D. Luffy formed the Straw Hat Pirates in the East Blue, the weakest of all the seas in the world of One Piece. Because of this, they weren’t seen as a serious threat early on. Starting with modest beginnings, the crew gradually became stronger and larger, and now they are one of the most powerful groups sailing the One Piece seas. The Straw Hat Pirates are incredibly strong, and they’re expected to become even more formidable in the future.
![The framework dissects software vulnerabilities by translating virtual CPU states and function descriptions - termed Reflections and Introspections - into actionable bug data, uniquely identified and categorized as [latex] Reached \ \& \ Triggered [/latex], then standardizing this information alongside fuzzing campaign timing data to visually report performance metrics and expose underlying system behavior.](https://arxiv.org/html/2601.15774v1/x5.png)
Researchers have developed a comprehensive framework to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of firmware fuzzers, tackling critical challenges in embedded system security.

Venusaur was the very first Grass-type Pokémon players could choose as a starter, and it popularized the powerful Solar Beam move that many Grass-types now use. While newer starters like Meowscarada have quickly become popular with fans, every Grass-type starter Pokémon is well-known. Some have played bigger parts in the animated series than others, but they’re all famous in their own way.

In 1348 Ex Voto, players follow Aeta, a knight on a quest to rescue her love, Bianca, portrayed by Jennifer English, known for her roles in Baldur’s Gate 3 and Expedition 33. The game features third-person combat inspired by European martial arts, with a focus on different combat stances and combo attacks. While set in a harsh Medieval Italy, the game also boasts moments of beauty and impressive scenery, encouraging players to explore its world.

The popular webcomic Solo Leveling finished a few years ago and, despite being very successful, its conclusion left some fans wanting more. Specifically, the story briefly covered the 27-year Monarch War, a major conflict, without going into much detail. Many readers felt this was a missed opportunity. Now, with the new project Solo Leveling: Karma, that’s about to change. Karma will significantly expand on the events of the 27-year war, which has fans eagerly anticipating the continuation of the story.

The collectible card game Magic: The Gathering has changed a lot recently. Collaborations with other popular franchises, like Final Fantasy and Spider-Man, have become common, growing from small releases into entire expansion sets. The company behind Magic, Wizards of the Coast and its parent company Hasbro, have also increased how often they release new sets – currently six per year, with plans for seven in 2026. Now, some investors in Hasbro are voicing their concerns about how the game is being managed.