If I understand idea, this sounds like what physicists might call a 'collective phenomena' effect introducing some type of screening. It's possible -- if true it could independently be tested. I know there are models for this type of stuff in denser matter (and in more extreme conditions), but not sure whats known in situations like the experiment. I assume there is a reason that isnt mentioned, but would love to know from an expert why.
Collective phenomena do show up in high energy/particle physics, albeit rarely, ex: when you collide large enough nuclei together at high enough speeds, you create a highly energy-dense nuclear plasma which effective 'screens' jets of particles that would travel through the center of the collision. If you go to smaller nuclei or lower energy, you can start to see these jets of particles pass through the collision area.
Collective phenomena do show up in high energy/particle physics, albeit rarely, ex: when you collide large enough nuclei together at high enough speeds, you create a highly energy-dense nuclear plasma which effective 'screens' jets of particles that would travel through the center of the collision. If you go to smaller nuclei or lower energy, you can start to see these jets of particles pass through the collision area.