Glion Institute of Higher Education

This study investigated the individual variation in the procoagulant toxicity of Vipera aspis venoms collected from multiple Swiss localities, in addition to the neutralisation capacity of three currently available antivenoms. Functional coagulation assays revealed quantifiable geographic differences in venom potency and clotting kinetics. Mechanistic analyses demonstrated that V. aspis venoms exert their procoagulant effects primarily through Factor Va-dependent action of the coagulation cascade, leading to accelerated thrombin generation and clot formation. These findings highlight the complexity of venom-host interactions, showing that Factor Va acts as a multifactorial cofactor that mediates both Factor X and Factor VII activation and varies between individual specimens. From a clinical perspective, this toxicological variability underscores the challenges or relying on a single antivenom for effective treatment across the vast range of a single species. Understanding the molecular basis of these pathophysiological variations through proteomic or transcriptomic profiling will be critical for developing antivenoms with improved neutralising efficacy. Beyond its clinical toxicology relevance, this work provides novel insight into the ecological and evolutionary forces shaping venom diversity in medically important species and identifies procoagulant enzymes from V. aspis venom as promising lead candidates for therapeutic development.

ABSTRACTThe luxury fashion industry is increasingly investing in digital technologies associated with the Metaverse to attract younger consumers traditionally difficult to engage. However, academic research exploring how luxury brands leverage the Metaverse for marketing remains scarce. This paper examines how Gucci utilized the gaming platform Roblox to market products in its virtual environment, Gucci Town. Anchored in the diffusion of innovations, the theory of embodied social presence, and the SPICE conceptual model, this qualitative case study reviews secondary data sources, including business reports, archival data, and narratives describing Gucci's digital strategy. Findings show that the Metaverse enables Gucci to expand its presence affordably and boost brand awareness among younger audiences. Gucci's participation exemplifies how luxury brands must adopt this digital transformation to craft compelling value propositions aligned with emerging market capabilities. The study highlights the potential of the Metaverse to redefine luxury, blending traditional exclusivity and identity with the interactive value proposition of a digital ecosystem. Practical implications suggest luxury brands should prioritize strategic partnerships and skill development to navigate the Metaverse effectively. Future research is recommended to investigate further intersections between luxury fashion, technology companies, sustainability practices, and talent retention within Metaverse ventures.

Cette contribution s’intéresse aux interactions entre apprenti-e-s et formateurs, durant la période de formation, en Suisse. Il s’agit de mieux comprendre les processus interactionnels en jeu dans la reproduction des inégalités. A cet effet, nous mobilisons une approche qualitative qui s’appuie sur des données audio-vidéo documentant le parcours de formation d’un apprenti automaticien. Une attention particulière est accordée à certaines caractéristiques de cet apprenti qui, au fil de son parcours, deviennent sources de marginalisation et de stigmatisation.