Zhao Yi and Edward Witten solely rely on mathematical justifications for their research. Unless mathematical proof indicates a mistake, they can continue their research indefinitely.
The two also have distinct roles in the research.
At the moment, Zhao Yi proposes an idea, and Edward Witten tries to refute it using theoretical mathematics. After long discussions, he has not been able to provide any direct evidence to refute it.
The level of Edward Witten's mathematical understanding is commendable, suggesting that Zhao Yi's idea cannot be easily disproven by mathematical models or theories. It would be worthwhile to record the idea and all related content.
This is a pattern.
Their research follows this pattern. Along the way, many other ideas have come up, but these were quickly refuted by mathematical structures, models, and established theories. Only those ideas deemed worthy of further research remain.