Disruptive Capability Research Articles

Why emerging and disruptive capabilities are a mixed blessing for NATO as a nuclear alliance

ABSTRACT Over the past decade, the world has entered the third nuclear age. One of the most important characteristics of this new nuclear age is the rise of emerging and disruptive capabilities that could influence and have implications for the credibility of nuclear deterrence, next to renewed major power competition and an emerging nuclear multipolarity. These capabilities create both benefits and challenges for the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). This was recognised in the new Strategic Concept of the Alliance adopted at the 2022 Madrid Summit. This article reviews the existing literature on emerging and disruptive capabilities and discusses the implications of these capabilities for NATO as a nuclear alliance. As these capabilities will be further developed and deployed by both allies and potential adversaries, they are likely to prove a mixed blessing for the alliance as a whole.

Disruptive innovation capability in resource-constrained environments: The role of strategic posture and human capital

The disruptive innovation framework has been suggested to enhance new venture sustainability in resource-constrained contexts. This paper explores the role of human capital and strategic posture on disruptive innovation capability in low-income and resource-constrained environments. Using a generic qualitative inquiry strategy, we develop propositions tested by 20 in-depth interviews with entrepreneurs and industry role players in the South African startup incubation sector. Data from the interviews were analyzed through thematic analysis with constant comparison. The findings suggest that adopting an emerging market orientation and taking strategic risks assists in identifying the right consumer target market. Innovativeness is linked to effective product development processes, and a learning orientation contributes to the development of the skills and capabilities required for successful innovation in resource-constrained environments. Additionally, the findings emphasize prior founder knowledge and industry experience in shaping the strategic posture of entrepreneurs. Resource-constrained contexts vary significantly across regions. Our study contributes to the body of knowledge on disruptive innovations and small business sustainability in resource-constrained environments by investigating entrepreneurial dynamics in South Africa.

Isolation and Structural Characterization of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent Lignin from Brewer's Spent Grains.

Brewer's spent grains (BSG) offer valuable opportunities for valorization beyond its conventional use as animal feed. Among its components, lignin-a natural polymer with inherent antioxidant properties-holds significant industrial potential. This work investigates the use of microwave-assisted extraction combined with acidic natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs) for efficient lignin recovery, evaluating three different NaDES formulations. The results indicate that choline chloride-lactic acid (ChCl-LA), a NaDES with superior thermal stability as confirmed via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), is an ideal solvent for lignin extraction at 150 °C and 15 min, achieving a balance of high yield and quality. ChCl-LA also demonstrated good solubility and cell disruption capabilities, while microwaves significantly reduced processing time and severity. Under optimal conditions, i.e., 150 °C, 15 min, in the presence of ChCl-LA NaDES, the extracted lignin achieved a purity of up to 79% and demonstrated an IC50 (inhibitory concentration 50%) of approximately 0.022 mg/L, indicating a relatively strong antioxidant activity. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and 2D-HSQC NMR (heteronuclear single quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy confirmed the successful isolation and preservation of its structural integrity. This study highlights the potential of BSG as a valuable lignocellulosic resource and underscores the effectiveness of acidic NaDESs combined with microwave extraction for lignin recovery.

Unveiling a Potent Small Molecule Disruptor for RNA G-Quadruplexes Tougher Than DNA G-Quadruplex Disruption.

This research presents a unique small molecule characterized by its ability to effectively disrupt RNA G-quadruplexes (G4s), which are notably more stable than their DNA counterparts. We conducted a comprehensive series of in vitro experiments to thoroughly assess the disruptive capabilities of this molecule on RNA G4s. These experiments included comparisons with established G4 stabilizers and DNA G4 disruptors, providing a multifaceted evaluation of the molecule's efficacy. Our extensive in vitro analyses demonstrated that this molecule effectively alters G4 structures and interactions with the BG4 protein, a well-recognized G4-specific antibody. These findings underscore the molecule's potential to modulate G4-protein interactions, indicating promising applications for manipulating cellular functions associated with G4 dynamics in future research.

Challenges, Prospects, and Strategic Directives for African Countries to Harness the Disruptive Capabilities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

Challenges, Prospects, and Strategic Directives for African Countries to Harness the Disruptive Capabilities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

Determining the Role of Surfactant on the Cytosolic Delivery of DNA Cross-Linked Micelles.

Nucleic Acid Nanocapsules (NANs) are nucleic acid nanostructures that radially display oligonucleotides on the surface of cross-linked surfactant micelles. Their chemical makeup affords the stimuli-responsive release of therapeutically active DNA-surfactant conjugates into the cells. While NANs have so far demonstrated the effective cytosolic delivery of their nucleic acid cargo, as seen indirectly by their gene regulation capabilities, there remain gaps in the molecular understanding of how this process happens. Herein, we examine the enzymatic degradation of NANs and confirm the identity of the DNA-surfactant conjugates formed by using mass spectrometry (MS). With surface enhanced (resonance) Raman spectroscopy (SE(R)RS), we also provide evidence that the energy-independent translocation of such DNA-surfactant conjugates is contingent upon their release from the NAN structure, which, when intact, otherwise buries the hydrophobic surfactant tail in its interior. Such information suggests a critical role of the surfactant in the lipid disruption capability of the DNA surfactant conjugates generated from degradation of the NANs. Using NANs made with different tail lengths (C12 and C10), we show that this mechanism likely holds true despite significant differences in the physical properties (i.e., critical micelle concentration (CMC), surfactants per micelle, Nagg) of the resultant particles (C12 and C10 NANs). While the total cellular uptake efficiencies of C12 and C10 NANs are similar, there were differences observed in their cellular distribution and localized trafficking, even after ensuring that the total concentration of DNA was the same for both particles. Ultimately, C10 NANs appeared less diffuse within cells and colocalized less with lysosomes over time, achieving more significant knockdown of the target gene investigated, suggesting more effective endosomal escape. These differences indicate that the surfactant assembly and disassembly properties, including the number of surfactants per particle and the CMC can have important implications for the cellular delivery efficacy of DNA micelles and surfactant conjugates.

Membrane Disruption-Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy against Gram-Negative Bacteria by a Peptide-Photosensitizer Conjugate.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) emerges as a promising strategy for combating bacteria with minimal drug resistance. However, a significant hurdle lies in the ineffectiveness of most photosensitizers against Gram-negative bacteria, primarily attributable to their characteristic impermeable outer membrane (OM) barrier. To tackle this obstacle, we herein report an amphipathic peptide-photosensitizer conjugate (PPC) with intrinsic outer membrane disruption capability to enhance PDT efficiency against Gram-negative bacteria. PPC is constructed by conjugating a hydrophilic ultrashort cationic peptide to a hydrophobic photosensitizer. PPC could efficiently bind to the OM of Gram-negative bacteria through electrostatic adsorption, and subsequently disrupt the structural integrity of the OM. Mechanistic investigations revealed that PPC triggers membrane disruption by binding to both lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and phospholipid leaflet in the OM, enabling effective penetration of PPC into the Gram-negative bacteria interior. Upon light irradiation, PPC inside bacteria generates singlet oxygen not only to effectively decrease the survival of Gram-negative bacteria P. aeruginosa and E. coli to nearly zero in vitro, but also successfully cure the full-thickness skin infection and bacterial keratitis (BK) induced by P. aeruginosa in animal models. Thus, this study provides a broad-spectrum antibacterial phototherapeutic design strategy by the synergistic action of membrane disruption and PDT to combat Gram-negative bacteria.

Simultaneous recovery of short-chain fatty acids and diverse carbon sources using magnetic cationic surfactant-functionalized materials integrated with membrane contactor in dark syngas fermentation

Syngas fermentation utilizing acetogenic bacteria like Clostridium sp. provides a promising method for transforming CO and CO2-rich waste gases into valuable products such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and bio-alcohols, aiding in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and supporting carbon neutrality objectives. Magnetic nanoparticle-based coagulants, particularly Fe3O4@MIL-100(Fe)@TEOS@DTAB (FMT@DTAB), have recently attracted attention due to their efficient recovery and enhanced cell disruption capabilities enabled by cationic surfactant surface modifications. At a dosage of 60 g/L, FMT@DTAB has proven highly effective in achieving significant concentrations of acetic acid (7.06 g/L), butyric acid (6.27 g/L), ethanol (6.43 g/L), and butanol (5.24 g/L), along with notable harvesting efficiency (99.2 %) and intracellular ATP concentration (2.1 mM). Recent research on supported liquid membrane contactors highlights their cost-effective and environment-friendly properties, with an emphasis on minimal extractant usage. This study investigated the behavior of SCFAs using both virgin and supported liquid membrane contactors, focusing on factors such as organic extractant and membrane pore size. PVDF filled with tridodecylamine notably improved butyric acid recovery to around 60 %, with a mass flux of 14.95 ± 0.28 g/m2/h, outperforming virgin and other extractant-filled PVDF membranes. This study enhances resource efficiency and reduces industrial environmental impacts by optimizing the recovery and production of valuable chemicals from waste gases. It supports sustainable and economically viable biotechnology applications, aligning with global climate change mitigation efforts.

VG111: A novel formulation demonstrating clinical evidence of anti-pathogenic activity and accelerated wound healing in humans and companion animals

Objectives: The increasing incidence of chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers, often compounded by bacterial infections and biofilm formation, presents significant challenges in wound management. Despite advancements in wound care products and a better understanding of molecular wound repair mechanisms, the treatment of chronic ulcerating conditions remains incomplete. VG111, a novel natural product formulation, emerges as a promising therapeutic candidate addressing the need for an effective wound healing agent with antimicrobial and tissue regenerative properties. Materials and Methods: A thorough evaluation of VG111 included antimicrobial assays to determine its minimum inhibitory concentration against an array of pathogens, assessment of its biofilm disruption capabilities, investigation into its profibrogenic activity through scratch assays, and analysis of its immunomodulatory effects on macrophage-derived cytokines. Quality consistency was ensured by high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprinting, while clinical applicability was assessed through observations in canine and human wound healing cases. Statistical Analysis: The cytotoxic effects of VG111 were assessed using a Two-way ANOVA, indicating no significant cytotoxicity at the tested concentration (Column factor p<0.0001). Results: VG111 demonstrated potent antimicrobial action with effective concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 5.0% v/v, targeting resistant strains of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, colistin-resistant Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, and other priority pathogens. It showed biofilm clearance, enhanced fibroblast migration, and a favorable immunomodulatory profile by reducing inflammatory cytokines in vitro. In vivo applications corroborated these findings, with significant wound healing observed in both veterinary and clinical settings, negating the need for additional antibiotics. Conclusions: The study emphasized on VG111 as a robust wound healing agent with significant antimicrobial and biofilm-disrupting properties. Its broad-spectrum efficacy against critical pathogens and ability to promote tissue regeneration mark it as a promising avenue in the management of complex chronic wounds, meriting further clinical exploration.

The Rise of Geotechnology: A Paradigm Shift from Geopolitics and Geoeconomics in the Context of Industry 4.0

Abstract As the Fourth Industrial Revolution unfolds, where the physical, digital and biological areas merge, there is a growing demand for technology-centred thinking in world affairs. In the dynamic and complex landscape of international economic relations, the 21st century may witness a transformative shift in strategic thinking from traditional geopolitics and geoeconomics to the new realm of geotechnology, from the analogue and the geographic towards the digital and the abstract amidst the incoming economic disruption that is represented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This article explores the emerging paradigms, and how technological advancements have not only altered the traditional power dynamics among states but have also opened the way for a more interconnected and interdependent international system which necessitates new methods of thinking in order to cope with the economics of Industry 4.0. By discussing key aspects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, this study aims to elucidate how technological innovations have become influential determinants in decision-making processes traditionally dominated by geopolitical or geoeconomic considerations. Through a rigorous review of the speciality literature, the article aims to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the rise of geotechnology and its transformative impact on shaping the future of international relations, by democratising global governance and providing a technologically-centric view in the context of the proliferation of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its potentially disruptive capabilities.

Investigation of Osteomyelitis Inducing Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Inhibition Effect by Strontium-Substituted Borate Bioactive Glasses.

Borate glass transforms into hydroxycarbonate apatite more rapidly than silicate glass. This research aims to evaluate strontium's structural and biological effects on borate bioactive glass (BBG) and the influence of strontium concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% Sr) prepared via the sol-gel method. The study reveals significant findings related to the physicochemical properties of the glass. Immersion of the glass powders in a simulated body fluid (SBF) led to the development of a hydroxyapatite (HAP) layer on the glass surfaces. This transformation was verified through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses. In particular, 5% strontium exhibited gradual degradation, resulting in particle sizes below 100 nm. The BBG-15%Sr demonstrates heightened pathogenic activity as it shows a significant inhibition zone of 14 mm at 250 μg/mL, surpassing other substituted BBGs. It effectively combats Gram-positive bacteria, completely inhibiting MRSA growth at 50 μg/mL. This underscores its robust biofilm disruption capabilities, eradicating biofilms, even at minimal concentrations after prolonged exposure. C. elegans when subjected to BBG-15%Sr shows less ROS production when compared with the others. Moreover, the results suggest that the modified glass could be a potential material for the treatment of osteomyelitis-affected bone repair.

Air Warfare over Ukraine and International Humanitarian Law

The Russian aggression against Ukraine involves extensive use of air power, proving that without the sufficient level of air control, the combat operations on the ground face significant operational challenges. The use of air power raises questions regarding the legality of the aerial actions conducted over Ukraine. This conflict in the air domain is characterised by separate campaigns. The first one was a battle over the air superiority of Ukraine, which was relatively short in time (February–April 2022), albeit intense, and lost by the Russian Air Force due to the inability to destroy Ukrainian air defence assets and Ukrainian military aviation. The second one, still in progress at the moment this article is being written, looks to become an unresolved contest of attrition, as both belligerents vastly increased their air disruption capabilities. In particular, during the last period of the first phase, it is believed that many of the Russian air strikes were, in fact, indiscriminate or deliberately directed against civilian objectives. The aim of the article is to analyse the overall conduct of the air war over Ukraine and pinpoint the legal challenges in assessing the legality of such air operations. In the context of available information, the paper will seek to understand the legal framework concerning the destruction of the An-225 at the Hostomel airport during the first phase of hostilities, the use of certain aerial weapons, and the selection of targets.

Configuring international entrepreneurial orientation and dynamic internationalization capability to predict international performance

In recent years, the dynamics of international business have changed. This has largely been attributed to uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and global trends towards individualistic behaviours. To remain competitive, international entrepreneurial firms (IEFs) renew their behaviours and reconfigure their capabilities. However, scholars have hitherto not uncovered the configurational interplay connecting behaviours and capabilities between the pre-and-post-COVID periods. Drawing on the configurational perspective of dynamic capability theory, we explored the configurational specificities of dynamic internationalisation capability and an international entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) as the behavioural aspect of IEFs. Adopting a longitudinal approach, we applied fsQCA to data drawn from Malaysia. Results show that whereas, in the pre-COVID period, IEFs exhibited an IEO along with threshold and disruption capabilities, in the wake of the pandemic, they are gingerly manifesting an IEO with an overwhelming priority on value-adding and consolidation capabilities suited to weather crises and secure international performance.

Antibacterial Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on Polymicrobial Biofilms in Endodontics: Systematic Review and Meta Analysis

This systematic review investigates the antibacterial effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on polymicrobial biofilms in endodontics, emphasizing their potential enhancement of traditional treatment methods. Recognizing the limitations of current endodontic disinfectants in fully eradicating complex biofilms, this study focuses on the synergistic potential of AgNPs to improve antimicrobial efficacy. Utilizing a systematic approach based on PRISMA guidelines, the review draws on studies from databases like PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS up to 2024. The included research specifically examines the role of AgNPs in various endodontic applications against resilient biofilms, adhering to strict inclusion criteria that demand clear methodology and measurable outcomes. The results suggest that AgNPs can significantly augment the biofilm disruption capabilities of conventional antimicrobials, potentially due to their ability to modify the biofilm matrix and enhance agent penetration. However, the effectiveness varies depending on the nanoparticle concentration and application technique, indicating a need for further optimized studies. In conclusion, while AgNPs show promise in enhancing endodontic antimicrobial protocols, additional in vivo research is necessary to establish standardized, effective, and safe clinical applications. The review highlights the complex interactions between nanoparticle properties and biofilm biology, underscoring the importance of further investigation in this area.

Application of blockchain technology to 21st century library services: Benefits and best practices

The fourth industrial revolution has paved the way for emerging technologies, and among them, blockchain stands out for its unprecedented ability to create and trade value in library organizations. This research paper explores the potential application of blockchain technologies in 21st-century library services. By conducting a systematic analysis of the literature, this study examines how libraries can harness blockchain to support innovative services and meet global demands. The study suggests that the recent advancements in blockchain have led to a fourth generation of the technology, which possesses disruptive capabilities across diverse fields, including library and information science. The paper proposes that blockchain can enhance library services such as collection development, circulation services, research, data management, and storage. It is important to note that this paper represents the original ideas of the authors and does not rely on copyrighted materials. Furthermore, it highlights that blockchain remains a vast and underexplored area of research, presenting both challenges and opportunities for library professionals seeking to provide diverse library services.

The role of networks and capabilities in the internationalization of SMEs in North Africa: The case of Egyptian SMEs

AbstractExecutive SummaryThis research studies the role of networks in the internationalization of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in an emerging country; mediated by internationalization capabilities. Self‐administered surveys targeting 300 SMEs in Egypt were employed, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test the proposed hypotheses. The results indicated that nonbusiness institutional networks have a direct positive impact on Egyptian SMEs' international performance, while the direct relationship between interfirm networks and social networks with international growth showed insignificant results. Moreover, the mediating role of the internationalization capabilities showed significant results between the three types of networks and SMEs' international performance. This study is an original attempt to differentiate among the types of networks, and how each affect SMEs' international growth. Additionally, empirical evidence is provided for the role of networks in building SMEs' internationalization capabilities in an emerging country context, where research has received less attention.AbstractThis research aims to study the role of networks in the internationalization of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in an emerging country. The research also investigates the mediating effect of internationalization capabilities; namely disruption and value‐adding capabilities in the internationalization process. This study is following a conclusive descriptive research design, utilizing a quantitative methodology using self‐administered surveys. Data were collected from 300 SMEs in Egypt from various industries. The results indicated that nonbusiness institutional networks have a direct positive impact on Egyptian SMEs' international performance. However, the direct impact of interfirm networks and social networks on SMEs' international performance showed insignificant results. Moreover, the mediating role of the internationalization capabilities, namely disruption capabilities and value‐adding capabilities, showed significant results; mediating the relationship between the three types of networks and SMEs' international performance. This study contributes to the networks theory as well as the dynamic capabilities theory, where we postulate that various types of networks support the development of specific capabilities crucial for firms' internationalization. The study is important for SME managers as it identifies the specific importance of business, social, and nonbusiness institutional networks to enhance SMEs' international performance in emerging countries. This study employed AMOS‐SPSS version 21 for data analysis.

Deep Learning in Air Traffic Management (ATM): A Survey on Applications, Opportunities, and Open Challenges

Currently, the increasing number of daily flights emphasizes the importance of air transportation. Furthermore, Air Traffic Management (ATM) enables air carriers to operate safely and efficiently through the multiple services provided. Advanced analytic solutions have demonstrated the potential to solve complex problems in several domains, and Deep Learning (DL) has attracted attention due to its impressive results and disruptive capabilities. The adoption of DL models in ATM solutions enables new cognitive services that have never been considered before. The main goal of this research is to present a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art Deep Learning (DL) solutions for Air Traffic Management (ATM). This review focuses on describing applications, identifying opportunities, and highlighting open challenges to foster the evolution of ATM systems. To accomplish this, we discuss the fundamental topics of DL and ATM and categorize the contributions based on different approaches. First, works are grouped based on the DL approach adopted. Then, future directions are identified based on the ATM solution area. Finally, open challenges are listed for both DL applications and ATM solutions. This article aims to support the community by identifying research problems to be faced in the future.

Words on Fire: Eloquence and Its Conditions, by Rob Goodman

Words on Fire: Eloquence and Its Conditions, by Rob Goodman

Bibliometric Analysis on Digital Disruptive Innovation and Dynamic Capabilities

Bibliometric Analysis on Digital Disruptive Innovation and Dynamic Capabilities

Disruptive Innovation at the Base-of-the-Pyramid: Negotiating the Missing Links

The disruptive innovation framework has become a topical issue in recent years. Despite its popularity, as well as the perceived strategic advantages it bestows on entrant firms, little is known about the disruptive innovation capability of new-technology-based firms (NTBFs) in the South African context. This article explores the contextual factors that influence disruptive innovation capability in South Africa’s base-of-the-pyramid (BoP) environment and how, given the specifics of this operating environment, entrepreneurs strategize for disruptive innovation capability. Following the development of a conceptual framework, we used a grounded theory approach to conduct in-depth interviews with purposefully selected stakeholders in the NTBF incubation sector. Our findings show that South Africa has the catalytic socio-economic dynamics to encourage the development of disruptive innovations. However, despite having fairly robust institutions in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, these fall short of enabling the innovation capability of NTBFs, owing to the poor-quality linkages between and among institutions within the ecosystem. On the strength of these findings, we synthesised a framework of disruptive innovation capability in BoP environments that highlights the contextual factors that influence disruptive innovation capability. Specifically, we demonstrate how the quality of linkages in the entrepreneurial ecosystem influences the innovation outcomes for innovators.