Analysis of the cryptic biosynthetic gene cluster encoding the RiPP curacozole reveals a phenylalanine-specific peptide hydroxylase.

Curacozole is representative of a cyanobactin-like sub-family of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). The molecule is distinguished by its small macrocyclic structure, a poly-azole sequence that includes a phenyloxazole moiety, and a d--Ile residue. The enzymatic steps required for its formation are not well understood.

More than convenience: The engagement of university students in research on global and social issues.

Young adults have long been leaders of social change, yet university student samples are often criticized for limits to generalizability. However, students may be a critical population to gather insight from to understand how they engage in activism and how their wellbeing is impacted by global conflict. We conducted two studies examining college students' perceptions of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and their activism at an urban Northeastern US university.

The evolutionary ecology of nests: a cross-taxon approach.

Nests, including the enormous structures housing colonies of eusocial insects and the elaborately built nests of some fishes, have long fascinated scientists, yet our understanding of the evolutionary ecology of nests has lagged behind our understanding of subsequent reproductive stages. There has, however, been a burgeoning amount of interest in nests over the past decade, and this special issue on 'The evolutionary ecology of nests: a cross-taxon approach' outlines our understanding of the form and function of nests in diverse animal lineages. Papers in 'The function of nests: mechanisms and adaptive benefits' theme examine the various functions of nests, while papers in 'The evolution of nest characteristics' theme examine the evolution of nesting behaviours.

Long-term environmental stability does not erode plasticity in nest building responses to changing ambient conditions.

The primary function of animal nests is to protect developing offspring from hostile and fluctuating environments. Animal builders have been shown to adjust nest construction in response to changes in their environment. However, the extent of this plasticity, and its dependence on an evolutionary history of environmental variability, is not well understood.