Micah, I'm sure you know this, but I wanted to let the others know that it turns out the String Theory has been supplanted by the Membrane (or Brane or M-) Theory due to unresolved problems in the 11th dimension. Thus, they cured the singularity (big bang) problem via many parallel universes. Not positive, but I think this means there might be an opening for your theory on Simple Gravity! Just and FYI.
Sorry, could not pass that up after watching a PBS show on the topic. The resultant feeling of stupidity on my part (I can't seem to get past the 9th dimension) is only quelled by poking fun at other.