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Quantitative Analysis of Potentially Toxic Elements (Pb, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Ni) in Lipstick Brands Available in Mekelle Markets, Tigray, Ethiopia
No full textLipsticks, widely used cosmetic products, can be a significant source of potentially toxic elements exposure through unintentional ingestion. This poses potential long-term health risks due to the bioaccumulative nature of metals like Pb, Cd, and Cr. This study aimed to quantify the concentrations of seven potentially toxic elements (Pb, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Ni) in three widely available and commonly sold lipstick brands from local markets in Mekelle, Ethiopia. Samples were prepared using a wet acid digestion method with a concentrated 5:1:1 mixture of HNO3, HCl, and H2O2 and analyzed through Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). Cd was not detected in any sample. The concentration ranges across all samples in ppm were: Pb (0.0400–0.1000), Co (3.740–5.570), Cr (10.62–18.05), Fe (75.00–1838), Mn (0.1500–0.1600), and Ni (12.83–51.41). The levels of Pb were well below the 10 ppm guidance limit set by international bodies like Health Canada, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), their consistent presence is a concern. However, concentrations of Cr and Ni, known sensitizers, were notable. As an intentionally added pigment, Fe showed the highest and most variable concentrations. Although the detected levels of toxic metals were within international permissible limits, their consistent presence is a public health concern. Given the direct ingestion route and frequency of application, daily use may contribute to the cumulative body burden of these metals over time. This study, though limited by a small sample size, highlights the urgent need for healthy regulatory oversight and routine quality control of cosmetics in Ethiopia. Further research is essential to assess a wider range of products and evaluate the associated health risks for consumers
Investigating and Documenting the Vernacular Architecture of Tigray: A Case of Selected Hidmo House Sites in Mekelle City
No full textThis study investigates the selected vernacular Hidmo houses of Mekelle, Ethiopia, specifically within the sub-cities of Kedamay Woyane (Tabia Zeselassie) and Hadnet (Tabia Aynalem), focusing on construction techniques, material usage, typological classifications, and preservation challenges in the context of rapid urbanization and cultural heritage decline. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates both descriptive and explanatory analyses through stratified sampling. Data collection involved Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with TTCB experts, purposively selected key informants (KIs), and inventory documentation informants (DIs). Analytical tools such as Excel and SPSS v.21 were used to interpret data derived from FGDs, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, direct observations, field surveys, and architectural measurements. The study identifies major threats to Hidmo preservation, including funding limitations, structural vulnerabilities, and damage caused by seasonal rainfall. A strong positive correlation was found between active preservation efforts and the continued survival of Hidmo houses. Findings reveal that both anthropogenic factors, particularly unregulated urban development, and environmental pressures accelerate the deterioration of these indigenous structures, thereby jeopardizing Mekelle’s cultural identity, historical value, and tourism potential. The study concludes by recommending policy interventions that emphasize collaborative stakeholder engagement, increased financial fund, community participation, and adaptive reuse strategies to ensure the sustainable conservation of Hidmo architecture amidst ongoing urban transformation
Inter- and Intra-Row Spacing Effect on Growth, yield and economic Benefit of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Under Furrow Irrigation in Central and North Western Zones of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia
No full textTraditionally disorganized and haphazard plant spacing is among the inappropriate agronomic practices that seriously hinder the achievement of potential garlic production in central and north eastern zones of Tigray and the region at large. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted in 2023/2024 cropping season under ridge furrow irrigation to evaluate the effect of inter- and intra-row spacing patterns on yield and yield components of garlic at Hatsebo and Selekhlekha districts in Tigray. The experimental treatments includes three inter row spacing (10, 20 and 30 cm) and three intra row spacing (5, 10 and 15 cm).The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in factorial arrangement with three replications. Results revealed that, except leaf number per plant, all yield and yield traits of garlic were significantly influenced by the interaction effect of inter and intra row spacing. In addition, the combined analysis of variance indicated that bulb diameter, clove width small, medium and large bulb size distribution, and total, marketable and unmarketable bulb yield had significantly influenced by the interaction effects of inter-row spacing × intra-row spacing × location. Longer date of maturity (145 days), higher plant height (63.5 cm), leaf length (44.05 cm, leaf width (2.31 cm), bulb diameter (5.41 cm), bulb length (4.34 cm), bulb weight (50.84g), clove weight (3.23 g), clove width (2.05 cm, shoot dry weight (4.72g) and bulb dry weight (22.51 g) were recorded from the wider inter and intra row spacing of 30 x 15 cm. However, lowest values for these parameters were recorded at the spacing 10 x 5 cm. The closest inter-row and intra-row spacing of 10 x 5 cm resulted in the highest total bulb yields of 70.05 ton/ha and 14.07 ton/ha at Hatsebo and Selekhlekha, respectively. This spacing also produced the highest unmarketable yield of 3.86 ton/ha and 4.78 ton/ha at the two locations, along with smaller bulb size distributions of 6.81 ton/ha and 6.13 ton/ha. In contrast, the wider spacing of 30 x 15 cm yielded the lowest values. The highest marketable yields of 16.31 ton/ha and 12.39 ton/ha at the Hatsebo and Selekhlekha sites respectively, along with medium bulb sizes of 9.05 ton/ha and 5.82 ton/ha, and large bulb sizes of 6.55 ton/ha and 4.67 ton/ha, were achieved through the interaction of medium inter-row and intra-row spacing of 20 x 10 cm at both locations Additionally the partial budget analysis also revealed that 20 x 10 cm inter- and intra-row spacing offered the highest MRR (1546.9%) indicating its higher profitability. Therefore, this treatment combination was suggested for use by farmers in the study areas of the Central and North Western zones and other parts of the region having similar agroecologies. However, it is essential that these findings be complemented with appropriate fertilizer recommendations on multiple locations and seasons to have a full package for garlic production under furrow irrigation
Comparative analysis of Customer Service Provision in selected hotels in Mekelle, Tigrai, Ethiopia; cases of Axum and Planet hotels
No full textThis research conducts a comparative analysis of service provision at two star-rated hotels in Mekelle, namely Axum and Planet Hotels. The study is motivated by the rapid growth of the hospitality industry in Ethiopia, contrasted with persistent inconsistencies in service quality that affect guest satisfaction. The primary objective is to assess the service provision and identify factors influencing service delivery in both hotels. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative data from a sample of 200 respondents, alongside qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with department heads and relevant stakeholders. The findings reveal significant disparities in service quality, primarily due to differences in staff training and operational practices.While Planet Hotel has implemented structured training initiatives, Axum Hotel faces challenges in maintaining consistent service delivery owing to inadequate ongoing staff development. Moreover, both hotels lack effective systems for collecting and responding to guest feedback, inhibiting their ability to adapt to customer needs. The research highlights the critical role of service quality in fostering customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness within the hospitality sector. Recommendations for improvement include enhancing staff training, establishing robust feedback mechanisms, and developing unique value propositions to differentiate both hotels in a competitive market. This study serves as a benchmark for other establishments in Mekelle and contributes to the broader discourse on the significance of quality service in economic development and cultural exchang
REFLECTIONS OF CULTURAL, IDEOLOGICAL, AND PHILOSOPHICAL THEMES IN TIGRIGNA TRADITIONAL SONGS 2008-2011 EC
No full textThis study explored the reflections of cultural, ideological, and philosophical themes embedded in traditional Tigrigna songs of Tigrai during the period 2008–2011 E.C. Employing a textual analysis methodology, the research draws on lyric analysis, in-depth interviews, and focused group discussions to uncover how these songs serve as repositories of communal memory, identity, and belief systems. The findings reveal those traditional songs prominently express nationalism and patriotism, reaffirming the significance of music in fostering unity and collective identity during times of sociopolitical upheaval. Philosophically, the songs convey deep spiritual convictions and moral teachings, revealing how musical expression becomes a conduit for articulating ethical principles and metaphysical perspectives. Culturally, symbolism is intricately woven into the lyrical narratives, using metaphor, allegory, and imagery to communicate complex meanings tied to both historical experience and communal values. These symbolic layers strengthen intergenerational knowledge transfer, reinforcing cultural consciousness and ideological coherence. The study concludes that Tigrigna traditional songs are not merely artistic expressions but vital cultural texts that bridge past and present, sustain identity, and inspire resilience. Their continued preservation and integration into educational and community frameworks are essential to safeguarding Tigrai’s intangible heritage
THE TITLE: "Assessing Students' Vocabulary Learning Strategies Use in EFL Class: The Case of Gijet Secondary School"
No full textThe main purpose of this study was to investigate the use of vocabulary learning strategies (VLS) among Grade 9 students at Gijet Secondary School. A total of 126 students were randomly selected from a population of 392 during the 2017 E.C. academic year. The study aimed to: (1) examine differences in students’ perceptions of the importance of vocabulary learning in the EFL classroom, (2) identify variations in students’ use of vocabulary learning strategies, and (3) determine the most and least frequently used strategies. To collect data, a questionnaire, AND interview were employed. The questionnaire data were analyzed quantitatively using frequency, percentage, mean values and standard deviation. The findings revealed that: (1) students held varying perceptions about the importance of vocabulary learning and the use of VLSs, (2) the most frequently used strategies were social strategies (discovery strategies) and determination strategies, while (3) the least frequently used were social strategies (consolidation strategies) and meta cognitive strategies. Additionally, findings from the interviews supported these results. Based on these findings, relevant suggestions and recommendations have been forwarded
FACTORS AFFECTING PASSENGERS’ PURCHASE DECISION IN AN AIRLINE INDUSTRY: THE CASE OF ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES MEKELLE ALULA ABA-NEGA BRANCH
No full textThe main objective of this research is to find out the factors that affect passengers ‘purchase decisions of Ethiopian airlines for their Mekelle Alula aba Nega air ticket purchase. It tried to study the factors according to their significance effect on the passengers ‘purchase decisions. The paper also covered to see if the factors have any different effect across the demographic profile of respondents. The study examined seven factors that were taken from prior research works. All responses were collected by using a structured questionnaire through convenience sampling (n=370). The data was collected from primary and secondary data. The research design was both descriptive and explanatory research deigns. The target population was the passengers of Mekelle Alula Aba Nega. Data was analyzed using SPSS software to obtain descriptive statistics, comparing mean scores (i.e. independent t-test and ANOVA) and other analyses (i.e. correlation analysis and multiple linear regressions). According to the study findings, three factors: loyalty program, ground and inflight services and safety record identified as the main factors that customers of Ethiopian airlines perceive to be important in influencing their purchase decision. The finding of the study showed that there is a significance difference in perceiving the seven factors between and among the customers of Ethiopian airlines with different demographic profiles. Therefore, Ethiopian shall work more on its brand equity specially to penetrate the rest of the market besides the African market
Post Crisis Recovery of Star Rated Hotels in Mekelle and Its Challenges
No full textThe dual challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest have significantly affected the hospitality sector in Mekelle, Ethiopia. This research primarily aims to investigate the postcrisis recovery of star-rated hotels in Mekelle and identify the challenges encountered in the wake of war and the pandemic. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study distributed 70 self-administered questionnaires to hotel Professionals owners and industry experts across various star-rated establishments. The sample size was determined using Purposive sampling to ensure representativeness. Primary data were gathered through these questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from organizational reports and relevant academic literature. Data analysis utilized simple descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage. The findings indicate that both the pandemic and civil unrest have resulted in substantial declines in hotel revenue, increased unemployment, shifts in consumer preferences, and a significant disruption of the recovery trajectory within the hospitality sector. The study underscores the critical need for hotels to prioritize the safety and security of both employees and guests. Furthermore, it advocates for strategic diversification of services and the implementation of adaptive operational frameworks to effectively navigate the complexities of recovery. This research offers valuable insights into the resilience of star-rated hotels in Mekelle amidst unprecedented challenges, laying the groundwork for future strategies aimed at promoting recovery and sustainability in the hospitality industr
Comparative Assessment of Heavy Metal Levels in the Soil and Some selected Edible Fruits (Orange and Papaya) Grown in the Addiha Irrigational site, Kola Tembien-Woreda Tigray, Ethiopia
No full textEdible fruits (orange and papaya) are source of vitamins, minerals and organic acids which provide an excellent health promoting nutrients. Heavy metals are natural constituents of the Earth's crust and their excessive consumption levels can be damaging to the organisms. The objective this study was compartive assessement of heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Cr and Mn) in the soil and selected edible fruits (Orange and Papaya). The sampling methods of this study were randomly and targeted methods.The chemicals used in this study were HNO3, HClO4, HCl and distilled water and the materials used inthis study were cutters, sample containers (plastic bags), gloves, hot plates, beakers, test tubs, electrical balance, spoon, stirrer, sample cells, oven, sample holder, volumetric flask and digester. The study was assessed heavy metal (Zn, Cu, Cr, Mn, and Fe) in both soil and selected edible fruits (orange and papaya) grown in the Addiha irrigation site Kola Tembien woreda central zone of Tigray, Ethiopia. Soil analysis revealed that Zn, Cu, and Mn were below established WHO (2011) safe limits, while Cr and Fe exceeded them. In contrast, all heavy metal levels in the selected edible fruits (orange and papaya) were below the established WHO (2012) safe limits. T-tests showed statistically significant differences (p0.05), while the analysis using ANOVA showed significance for all elements when comparing soil to fruit which between soil and orange and between soil and papaya were statistically significant differences (p0.05). Furthermore, ANOVA comparisons between orange and soil, as well as papaya and soil, showed statistically significant differences for all heavy metals (Zn, Cu. Cr. Mn and Fe) (p<0.05). Keywords: Heavy metals, Edible Fruits, Soils, Permissible level