This research investigates the technical efficiency, challenges, and contributions of women in the small-scale rice processing sector in Lafia Local Government Area (L.G.A.), highlighting their dominance in the rice production value chain. Using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), the study determined a mean technical efficiency of 57%, indicating significant room for improvement, as inefficiencies suggest a potential 43% increase in processed rice output if less efficient processors adopt better strategies and techniques. The analysis identified multiple challenges faced by women in the sector, including epileptic power supply (87%), the adverse impact of foreign rice on local demand (30%), poor pricing of polished rice (27%), high levels of impurities and broken grains (26%), lack of access to credit facilities (17%), and the poor state of infrastructure, particularly outdated or insufficient rice mills (15%). Furthermore, societal constraints related to marriage and childcare, though less significant, were mentioned by a minority. Despite these limitations, women play a central role in the processing sector, with their resilience and entrepreneurial efforts sustaining small-scale rice production. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted policy interventions to address infrastructural deficits, improve access to credit, stabilize local rice pricing, and enhance technical capacity through training and innovation. By resolving these issues, the efficiency and output of women processors can be greatly enhanced, contributing to improved livelihoods and greater food security in the region.

This paper explores the impact of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) on the rural economy of Maharashtra, focusing on the socio-economic changes brought about by their establishment. SEZs are key drivers of industrial growth, foreign investment, and economic liberalization in India. While they have contributed significantly to urban development, their effects on rural areas, particularly in Maharashtra, are complex and multifaceted. This study examines how SEZs influence rural employment, income levels, agricultural practices, infrastructure development, and the local community's standard of living. Through a case study approach, the paper analyzes both positive and negative outcomes of SEZs, including job creation, income diversification, displacement issues, environmental concerns, and changes in land use. The findings provide insights into the broader implications of SEZs for rural development, highlighting the need for balanced policy interventions to maximize benefits while mitigating adverse effects on rural communities.

This study examines go-to-market (GTM) strategies for consumer technological products utilizing subscription monetization models. As the digital landscape evolves, businesses are increasingly adopting subscription-based approaches to generate recurring revenue and establish long-term customer relationships. Our research investigates the key components of successful GTM strategies in this context, focusing on market segmentation, value proposition development, pricing strategies, distribution channel selection, and customer acquisition and retention tactics. Through a comprehensive analysis of scientific papers, industry reports, and case studies, we identify best practices and trends in subscription-based GTM strategies for consumer tech products. Our findings highlight the importance of market segmentation, value proposition development, pricing strategies, marketing and communication, customer acquisition and retention practices in optimizing customer lifetime value. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on subscription business models and provides practical insights for managers and entrepreneurs in the consumer tech industry.

ZENODO DOI:- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14064629

This study examined the impact of electric power outages on the profitability of small businesses in Nigeria, using 50 randomly selected small businesses in Gwagwalada town as a case study. A Logit regression model was adopted, incorporating a mix of qualitative and quantitative variables. The Maximum Likelihood (ML) estimation method was utilized in estimating the Logit model. Findings from the estimated Logit model showed that electric power outages had a negative impact on the profitability of small businesses in Gwagwalada town, while small businesses' expenses on alternative electricity power supplies had a positive impact on profitability. However, both electric power outages and small businesses’ expenses on alternative electricity power supplies in Gwagwalada town had an insignificant impact on the profitability of the small businesses. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended, among other things, that the government should undertake a national demand study to determine the exact electricity requirements to meet demand in the short, medium, and long terms. Furthermore, an integrated least-cost system expansion plan should be developed for the efficient deployment of the Nigerian electricity industry in the medium and long terms. There is also a need for diversification of electricity generation to improve the security of supply, as well as the development of capacity to generate electricity closer to demand centers to reduce technical losses. Additionally, the government should explore and develop measures to ensure the long-term supply of gas for electricity generation.

This article provides an overview of the concept and classification of business entities, focusing on the main characteristics and legal definitions of an individual entrepreneur and family entrepreneurship.  In addition, the role of regulatory measures in promoting and supporting entrepreneurial activity in Uzbekistan is discussed, with an emphasis on legislative provisions aimed at developing small businesses and private entrepreneurship as vital components of economic stability and employment. The classification of business entities in Uzbekistan is detailed according to their organizational and legal forms, types of activities and ownership structures.

This literature review explores the diverse methodologies within the field of evolutionary finance, highlighting its theoretical foundations, applications, and implications for financial modeling and decision-making. Evolutionary finance, which integrates concepts from evolutionary biology, behavioral finance, and complexity theory, provides a unique perspective on market dynamics and the behavior of financial agents. This review systematically categorizes existing research into key themes, including agent-based modeling, evolutionary game theory, and adaptive markets, and assesses their contributions to understanding financial phenomena such as asset pricing, market efficiency, and risk management. By synthesizing findings from a wide range of studies, this paper identifies gaps in the literature and suggests future research directions to enhance the theoretical and practical aspects of evolutionary finance. Ultimately, this review aims to provide scholars and practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of evolutionary finance methodologies and their potential for shaping the future of financial research and practice.

Binge-watching has led to a growing concern for the undergraduate students' academic performance. The increased and easy access to internet and streaming devices has provided an opportunity to college students who consider binge-watching as a gratifying pass time. Recent studies explored various effects of binge-watching on adults, teenagers, and students; nevertheless, the current study focuses on determining empirical predictors of academic performance as a result of binge-watching. The data used in the research was manually collected based on a survey administered to college students (N = 150) and analysed using the MANOVA and ANOVA tests. The BWESQ instrument was used for measuring binge-watching levels. On the other hand, procrastination and academic motivation were measured using the procrastination scale and motivation engagement scale (MES), respectively. The outcome of the study shows that binge-watching intensity can predict academic motivation and academic procrastination in college students. Participants with high binge-watching behaviours demonstrated higher procrastination tendencies (F (1,147) = 7.891, p = 0.006). Conversely, high binge-watchers showed low academic motivation, which is a negative effect on the academics of the student (F (2, 146) = 4.326, p = .015). Findings suggest that a mixed-method approach would be appropriate for future studies on binge-watching effects on the academics of college students. Moreover, researchers should re-conceptualize academic performance by including both academic procrastination and academic motivation measures in future research.