JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

LEVERAGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO IMPROVE FOOD SYSTEM POLICY FRAMEWORKS AND STRATEGIES IN AFRICA

2026-05-07T11:00:56+00:00

Africa consistently faces policy challenges in all sectors, including its key sector, the food system. Existing challenges intertwine, making policy implementation challenging and necessitating improved regional cooperation and innovative solutions that transcend traditional approaches. This conceptual article examines how AI can be leveraged to enhance Africa's food system policy frameworks and strategies, identifies the challenges of leveraging AI to improve food system policies and strategies, and proposes pathways to strengthen the AI presence in food system adoption and policy-making. The article draws on existing literature as well as personal insights to explore how AI can enhance food systems policymaking in Africa. It reveals that AI holds transformative potential for improving food system policies in Africa by enhancing efficiency, productivity, and resilience across the entire agricultural value chain. By leveraging data-driven insights, AI can help policy-makers and farmers make more informed, timely, and localised decisions. However, poor digital infrastructure, high costs, data gaps, low digital literacy, lack of skilled AI experts, weak regulations, and governance issues, as well as cultural barriers, often combine to create a digital divide, where smallholders are left behind, hindering effective policy implementation and equitable benefits, despite AI’s potential for efficiency and sustainability. Efforts should be directed at bridging the digital divide.

MEASURING THE ORGANIZATIONAL RESILIENCE OF ORGANIZATIONS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA THROUGH ABSORPTIVE, ADAPTIVE AND TRANSFORMATIVE CAPACITIES

2026-05-07T11:00:45+00:00

The motivation for the study derives from the need to assess the level of resilience of organizations in the Republic of Moldova in the face of economic uncertainty and contemporary crises. The central hypothesis claims that organizational resilience is determined by the interaction between absorptive, adaptive and transformative capacities, and their balance reflects institutional maturity. The purpose of the research was to measure and compare these dimensions using the integrated organizational resilience questionnaire, applied to a sample of respondents from private companies, public institutions and NGOs. The methodology included descriptive statistical analysis, transformation of criterion means on a percentage scale (0–100). The results showed an average level of organizational resilience of 56.9, with close values for absorptive capacities 57.3, adaptive 58.0 and transformative 55.5. The conclusions highlight the need to strengthen transformative capacity and invest in innovation and digitalization, as premises for the maturation of organizational resilience in the post-crisis context.

STRATEGIC BRANDING AS A DRIVER OF LONG-TERM EQUITY

2026-05-07T11:00:34+00:00

In conditions of global market saturation and product parity, firms increasingly rely on intangible assets to sustain competitive advantage. This study is motivated by the hypothesis that systematic branding transforms a registered trademark into a strategic asset capable of generating measurable financial and relational value. The purpose of the research is to conceptualize branding as an integrated managerial process and to examine its impact on market performance and enterprise value. The study applies qualitative synthesis of classical and contemporary brand equity theories, combined with analysis of empirical observations from regional and global markets. The findings demonstrate that consistent brand investment reduces price elasticity, strengthens consumer psychological commitment, and enables firms to achieve sustainable price premiums. The research confirms that branding functions not merely as a communication activity, but as a capital investment embedded in corporate strategy. The novelty of the study lies in clarifying the causal mechanisms underlying trademark-to-brand transformation and in substantiating branding as a long-term value creation instrument with practical implications for strategic marketing and corporate governance.

PERCEPTION OF ECOLOGICAL PRICE ACCEPTANCE: CONSUMER ATTITUDE AND PRICE JUSTIFICATION FOR ECOLOGICAL PRODUCTS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

2026-05-07T11:00:23+00:00

The impact of eco-pricing on the formation of consumers’ purchasing decisions is becoming increasingly decisive, influencing the level of adoption of ecological products. In the context of growing concerns for environmental protection and a healthy lifestyle, ecological products are attracting rising interest; however, price levels remain one of the main barriers to the expansion of consumption. The study aims to highlight how consumers perceive the price difference between ecological and conventional products, the degree of acceptance of eco-costs, and the factors that influence their willingness to pay a higher price. The research methodology is based on a quantitative study conducted through a questionnaire applied to a sample of 231 respondents, with data analysis carried out using descriptive statistical tools and the Likert scale. The results indicate that interest in ecological products is high, predominantly manifested at an occasional level, being conditioned by price sensitivity and the level of information. Consumers acknowledge the benefits of ecological products, particularly those related to health and safety, and accept a moderate price premium ranging between 0–20%. The conclusions emphasize the need for pricing strategies oriented toward perceived value, clear communication of eco-costs, and transparent labeling capable of stimulating the consistent adoption of ecological consumption.

SUSTAINABLE DIGITAL TRADE AND LOW-ALTITUDE ECONOMY: A NEW PATHWAY FOR GLOBAL WINE MARKET EXPANSION IN CHINA

2026-05-07T11:00:12+00:00

Although China is one of the largest potential markets in terms of wine consumption, international wine imports are still severely constrained by fragmented logistics, carbon-intensive transport structures, and weak digital interaction with consumers. At the same time, the rapid development of the low-altitude economy in China and its policydriven expansion of sustainable digital trade are reshaping the conditions under which crossborder supply chains operate. The study presents the hypothesis that the nonlinear integration of digitalization, decarbonization, and distributed logistics yields synergistic effects that surpass conventional linear sustainability approaches. To investigate this hypothesis, a novel 3D Sustainable Trade Model, defined as Digitalizationⁿ × Decarbonizationⁿ × Distributionⁿ, is developed and analyzed based on policy analysis, scenario-based supply-chain modeling, and secondary data from customs statistics and digital trade platforms. The results indicate that synchronously improving the dimensions may reduce logistics-related carbon emissions by around 40–60%, while enabling delivery efficiency and enhancing responsiveness to the market at the same time. The proposed framework is particularly relevant to time-sensitive and premium wine trade, and it points toward a structured way through which exporters and policymakers can align their lowcarbon objectives with digital trade strategies.

STRATEGIC INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL MARKETING PRACTICES AND E-BUSINESS PERFORMANCE IN EMERGING MARKETS

2026-05-07T10:59:58+00:00

The rapid growth of digital technologies has transformed business operations, making digital marketing a critical driver of e-business performance, particularly in emerging economies. This study investigates the impact of four key digital marketing strategies, i.e. Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing (SMM), Content Marketing (CM), and Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising on e-business performance. Using survey data collected from online businesses in emerging markets, the study employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to assess the measurement and structural models. Results indicate that all four strategies significantly and positively influence e-business performance, with Social Media Marketing and Content Marketing demonstrating the strongest effects. The measurement model exhibited strong reliability and validity, and the structural model in e-business performance had substantial predictive relevance. The findings provide theoretical support for the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), highlighting digital marketing strategies as strategic capabilities that enhance online performance. Practically, the study offers actionable insights for managers to integrate multi-channel digital marketing strategies effectively and for policymakers to support digital infrastructure and literacy initiatives. Future research could explore longitudinal effects, moderating factors, and the role of emerging technologies such as AI and predictive analytics.

EFFICIENCY OF ECO MATERIALS IN CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR DESIGN

2026-05-07T10:59:39+00:00

This article analyzes the energy and ecological efficiency of natural materials in modern interior design and brings back into discussion the solutions for their implementation in past periods. The research is developed by the method of analysis, information synthesis, deduction and comparison, which creates new premises for the development and evolution of sustainable interior design. The results of the study consist in cataloging data and indices of optimal ecological materials for energy efficiency of spaces and including in the scientific circuit information about the benefits of using clay or clay products for finishing works in contemporary interior design. The results of the study provide an insight into the most effective practices in the use of eco materials for sustainable interior design, with a discrete presentation of concrete historical data on past building experiences. The practical significance of the study is argued by the benefits and advantages offered by local ecological materials in the field of construction and interior design, with the presentation of past experiences and prospects for future implementation as an optimal solution for improving the eco natural system and human living.

VISIBILITY AND TRANSFORMATION OF MOLDOVAN SCHOLARLY OUTPUT (2008–2024): A COMPARATIVE BIBLIOMETRIC STUDY

2026-05-07T10:59:24+00:00

This comparative bibliometric study examines the visibility of scientific publications by authors from the Republic of Moldova between 2008 and 2024. Utilising three complementary data sources – Web of Science, Scopus, and the National Bibliometric Instrument – the analysis assesses temporal trends, document types, linguistic and disciplinary distributions, and the effects of accreditation and indexing policies on publication patterns. The results reveal a dual model of visibility: Web of Science and Scopus capture an internationalised segment dominated by English-language journal articles in the exact sciences and engineering, while the National Bibliometric Instrument reflects an exhaustive national corpus with a prominent role for conference proceedings, publications in Romanian and Russian, and strong representation of social sciences and humanities. Regulatory reforms and accreditation processes since 2013-2016 have contributed to editorial professionalisation and a typological shift in the National Bibliometric Instrument towards conference materials. The study highlights the limitations of single-source evaluations and argues for the integrated use of international and national bibliometric infrastructures to achieve a balanced assessment of research performance. Implications for policy, editorial practices, and future research, including cohort citation analyses and the role of persistent identifiers, are discussed.

INTEGRATING THE TECHNIQUE OF DETECTING SIMULATED BEHAVIOR INTO THE PROCESS OF FORENSIC INVESTIGATION OF CORRUPTION

2026-05-07T10:59:11+00:00

Corruption crimes generate complex and far-reaching effects on the functioning of institutions, affecting not only administrative efficiency, but also social cohesion and economic stability. In the public sector, such acts undermine the integrity of decision-making processes and compromise the transparency, objectivity and accountability of the administrative act. As a result, financial and material resources may be allocated inefficiently or in a biased manner, institutional priorities are distorted, and essential public projects may be delayed or directly compromised. These effects lead to a decrease in citizens’ trust in state institutions, affect the perception of the fairness of laws and social rules, and can diminish civic participation and the collaboration of communities with authorities. In the private sector, corruption creates an unstable economic environment, characterized by unfair competition, favoritism and defective business practices. Companies that follow the rules are often disadvantaged, while those who resort to corrupt practices can obtain temporary advantages, distorting market mechanisms. This leads to increased operational costs, inefficiency, reputational risks and can negatively affect domestic and foreign investments. In addition, the general economic climate becomes uncertain and volatile, which influences sustainable development and long-term social stability.

RESEARCH ON THE THEORETICAL CONNOTATIONS, HOT TOPICS, AND TRENDS OF SOCIAL EMOTIONAL RESONANCE

2026-05-07T10:58:57+00:00

With the evolution of public opinion research from "information flow" to "emotion flow", the importance of "emotion" in social public communication issues has been deeply recognized, and the concept of social emotional resonance has begun to attract the attention of scholars. Taking 2,450 Chinese and English literatures from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science(WoS) databases in the past decade as samples, this paper adopts literature analysis method, scientometrics method and scientific knowledge graph analysis method, with CiteSpace software as the analysis tool. It applies analytical methods such as keyword co-occurrence, keyword clustering and timeline graph, and analyzes the visualized network knowledge graph to clarify the research theories, methods, hot topics and dynamic trends of social emotional resonance in the past decade, so as to explore the current situation and future development of domestic and international research on social emotional resonance.

FACILITATING A SMOOTH TRANSITION FROM GENERAL ENGLISH TO TECHNICAL ENGLISH FOR STUDENTS

2026-05-07T10:58:29+00:00

In the context of globalization and rapid technological advancement, English language proficiency has become a prerequisite for academic and professional success in technical fields, particularly as students often encounter difficulties when transitioning from General English (GE) to Technical English (TE). This study aims to identify the main challenges associated with this transition, analyze effective pedagogical strategies, and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving technical communication proficiency, based on the assumption that integrating structured English for Specific Purposes (ESP) modules, practical exercises, and digital tools facilitates the acquisition of TE competencies. The research employs a methodology combining curriculum analysis, student surveys, and performance assessments, with data analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to determine measurable improvements in comprehension, writing, and oral communication skills. The findings indicate that targeted ESP instruction, task-based learning, and technological integration significantly enhance both linguistic and cognitive competencies, leading to improved understanding of technical texts, greater accuracy in technical writing, and increased confidence in professional communication. The study concludes that a welldesigned ESP framework bridging GE and TE, supported by curriculum adaptation, practical learning, and digital resources, effectively prepares students for modern technical professions, with practical implications for curriculum design, teaching methodology, and student employability.

CHILDREN'S NATURAL RIGHTS IN THE LAW ON MOTHER AND CHILD WELFARE ACCORDING TO MONTESQUIEU

2026-05-07T10:58:18+00:00

This study focuses on Article 12 paragraph (1) letter g of Law No. 4-2024, Indonesia. This article states that "every mother and father has the obligation to instill religious values, faith in God Almighty, and good character in their children." The essence of the obligation of every mother and father, while a natural obligation, is not part of the state's obligation to regulate because it would violate the natural rights of children. This study uses normative research but in its elaboration it still relies on the belief in what is right. Normative research asks questions that are relevant to the development and implementation of legislation. The natural rights in Article 12 paragraph (1) letter g are not in accordance with the teachings of Montesquieu because the state has made them a norm and they are not in line with the origins of their formation. The state was formed because society was unable to fulfill its natural desires due to a lack of facilities. Even if there were no facilities, mothers and fathers would refer to Article 12 paragraph (1) letter g of Law No. 4-2024 and would try to instill religious values, faith in God, and good character in their children.

THE ESSENCE, TASKS AND PURPOSE OF IDENTIFICATION PROCEEDINGS IN CRIMINAL PROCEDURE

2026-05-07T10:58:07+00:00

This article examines the essence, tasks, and purpose of identification proceedings as a distinct evidentiary procedure in criminal procedure law. Employing doctrinal, comparative, and logical-analytical methods, the study investigates the legal nature of identification proceedings, their structural elements, and their role in establishing evidentiary truth. Special attention is given to procedural safeguards designed to prevent miscarriages of justice caused by erroneous identifications. The article identifies key deficiencies in the legal regulation and judicial application of this investigative action and proposes concrete recommendations for strengthening procedural guarantees in accordance with the principles of legality, adversariality, and the protection of participants' rights. The findings contribute to clarifying the theoretical framework governing identification proceedings and offer practical guidance for criminal investigation bodies and courts. The study advances scholarship in criminal procedural law by providing a systematic analysis of an underexplored evidentiary mechanism with significant implications for fair trial standards.