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This paper develops a neural network surrogate model based on a discrete lattice approach to investigate the influence of complex microstructures on the emergent behavior of biological networks.

The adaptability of network-forming organisms, such as, slime molds, relies on fluid-to-solid state transitions and dynamic behaviors at the level of the discrete microstructure, which continuum modeling methods struggle to capture effectively. To address this challenge, we present an optimized approach that combines lattice spring modeling with machine learning to capture dynamic behavior and develop nonlinear constitutive relationships.

This integrated approach allows us to predict the dynamic response of biological materials with heterogeneous microstructures, overcoming the limitations of conventional trial-and-error lattice design. The study investigates the microstructural behavior of biological materials using a neural network-based surrogate model. The results indicate that our surrogate model is effective in capturing the behavior of discrete lattice microstructures in biological materials.

The combination of numerical simulations and machine learning endows simulations of the slime mold Physarum polycephalum with a more accurate description of its emergent behavior and offers a pathway for the development of more effective lattice structures across a wide range of applications.

The novelty of this research lies in integrating lattice spring modeling and machine learning to explore the dynamic behavior of biological materials. This combined approach surpasses conventional methods, providing a more holistic and accurate representation of emergent behaviors in organisms.

Companies changing their brand names are frequently reported in the business press but this phenomenon has as yet received little academic attention. This paper sets out to understand the drivers of the corporate rebranding phenomenon and to analyse the impact of such strategies on corporate brand equity.

A cross‐sectional sample of 166 rebranded companies provides descriptive data on the context in which rebranding occurs. Two case studies provide further detail on how the process of rebranding is managed.

The data show that a decision to rebrand is most often provoked by structural changes, particularly mergers and acquisitions, which have a fundamental effect on the corporation's identity and core strategy. They also suggest that a change in marketing aesthetics affects brand equity less than other factors such as employees' behaviour.

The paper proposes a conceptual model to integrate various dimensions of corporate rebranding. Analysing the rebranding phenomenon by assessing the leverage of brand equity from one level of the brand hierarchy to the other constitutes an interesting route for further research.

Managers are reminded that corporate rebranding needs to be managed holistically and supported by all stakeholders, with particular attention given to employees' reactions.

This paper is of value to anybody seeking to understand the rebranding phenomenon, including academics and business managers.

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the spiritual leadership (SL) of the leader is perceived by workers in the public health sector in the Assiut region of Egypt. In other words, this study investigates the work-related workplace spirituality (WPS) of public health workers in this context.

An online survey was conducted among a sample of 333 employees working in the public health sector in Assiut.

The empirical results indicate that the SL of the leader (especially altruism and vision), as evaluated by employees, positively influence work-related WPS. The results confirm that strengthening SL is a promising pathway to improve WPS, which may ultimately have some benefits, such as helping to improve individual and institutional performance in the public health sector.

The authors hope that the theoretical insights gained through the findings of this study will encourage researchers to explore how and when to enhance SL and WPS for employees.