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THE EFFECT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTISEMENT ON CUSTOMERS' ATTITUDE: - A SURVEY OF COSMOTICS INDUSTRY IN MEKELLE CITY
No full textThe impact of social media advertising on customer attitudes in the cosmetics industry remains underexplored, particularly within the Ethiopian market. This study investigates how social media influences consumer attitudes in a survey in cosmetics industry and used both explanatory and descriptive research designs, data were collected through questionnaires distributed across three sub-cities. A five-point Likert scale was used, with 384 questionnaires distributed and 357 valid responses analyzed. Descriptive statistics were employed to present the demographic characteristics of the respondents, while multiple linear regression analysis examined the relationship between four independent variables—product reviews, influencer endorsements, interactive advertising capabilities, and customer expectations—and the dependent variable, customer attitude. Data analysis was conducted using STATA 14.0. The results revealed that social media advertising has a positive and significant impact on customer attitudes. Specifically, product reviews, influencer endorsements, interactive advertising capabilities, and customer expectations were found to significantly shape attitudes toward cosmetic products. These findings highlight the importance for advertisers to strategically leverage social media features to enhance customer engagement and purchase intentions. The study offers valuable insights for marketers seeking to harness the persuasive potential of social media in emerging markets such as Ethiopia
EXAMINING HOTEL MANAGERS’ FINANCIAL COMPETENCIES: EVIDENCE FROM FOUR-STAR HOTELS IN ADDIS ABABA
No full textIn the current competitive business environment, hotel managers are required to develop a high level of financial competencies to deliver efficiency and effectiveness in their day-to-day activities, which contributes to organizational performance. However, expected hotel managers‘ financial competencies deviate from the actual competencies they acquired through experience and curricular training. As the hotel industry in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by economic expansion, increased conference tourism, and globalization, this research aims to examine what financial management competencies are considered important from the perspective of four-star hotel managers in Addis Ababa. Utilizing a descriptive research design with descriptive data analysis, the study included heads of departments and deputy supervisors from seven selected hotels. Primary data were collected through questionnaires from 72 hotel managers. The managers identified a set of important skills under six core financial competencies: demand forecasting, budgeting, pricing skills, revenue management, cost management, and asset management. Hotel managers and graduates are expected to build those skills and competency blocks to drive the organizational performance. Stakeholders, including educational institutions and hotel managements, need to collaborate in developing and delivering hotel managers‘ financial competencies that focus on the managers‘ objective contribution to the profitability of the Hotels
UTILIZATION AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MINIMUM EIGHT CONTACT ANTENATAL CARE AMONG MOTHERS WHO DELIVERED IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS OF CENTRAL ZONE, TIGRAY, NORTH ETHIOPIA, 2024.
No full textBackground: Maternal mortality, a largely preventable global health concern, remains high, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The WHO recommends eight or more antenatal care (ANC) contacts, yet only 65% of women globally achieve this, with lower rates in high-mortality regions. In Ethiopia, only 43% receive four or more ANC visits, and 32% receive none. Data on eight+ ANC utilization in central Tigray, Ethiopia, was previously lacking.
Objective: To assess utilization and factors associated with eight+ ANC contacts among mothers who delivered in public hospitals in central Tigray, Ethiopia, in 2024.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 614 mothers from November 15 to December 15, 2024. A systematic sampling method was used, with proportional allocation to each hospital. Ethical clearance was obtained from Mekelle University, and permissions were secured from the Tigray Regional Health Bureau and hospitals. Data were entered into Epi Data and analyzed using SPSS version 27, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The magnitude of eight+ ANC utilization was 36.2%. Factors significantly associated with eight+ ANC utilization included having a trader partner [AOR = 1.755, 95% CI: 1.097– 2.807], presence of danger signs [AOR = 2.131, 95% CI: 1.362–3.333], planned pregnancy [AOR = 2.287, 95% CI: 1.394–3.751], ANC initiation within 12 weeks [AOR = 3.275, 95% CI: 2.204–4.868], living <30 minutes [AOR = 3.683, 95% CI: 1.777–7.632] or 30–60 minutes [AOR = 2.099, 95% CI: 1.055–4.174] from a health facility, and positive attitude toward ANC [AOR = 2.364, 95% CI: 1.039–5.379].
Conclusion and Recommendation: Utilization of eight+ ANC contacts in central Tigray remains low. Key factors include partner occupation, presence of danger signs, pregnancy planning, ANC initiation timing, distance to health facilities, and maternal attitudes. Targeted interventions, such as community education, improved accessibility, and strengthened healthcare systems, are needed to increase ANC8+ utilization
Efficiency Improvement in MV Distribution System through Feeder Reconfiguration (Case Study: Adwa Distribution System)
No full textThe electric power industry is increasingly challenged by rising load demand, aging infrastructure, and the complex spatial distribution of electrical loads, all of which undermine distribution system efficiency. These are especially pronounced in radial networks, where high technical losses and voltage deviations compromise power quality and reliability. Adwa feeder, a 15 kV radial distribution system in Ethiopia, embodies these concerns, with technical losses reaching 940.84 kW, voltage levels dropping to 0.83 per unit, and line loading peaking at 148.14 percent. This study explores feeder reconfiguration using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to improve energy efficiency, voltage stability, and line overloading under varied load conditions.
Load flow analysis was conducted using the Backward/Forward Sweep method in MATLAB under peak, medium, and minimum loading conditions, with total demands of 7,839 kW, 4,710 kW, and 2,160 kW, respectively. PSO identified an optimal switching scheme by opening sectionalizing switches 52 and 71, keeping tie switches 79 and 82 open, and closing 80 and 81. The optimized configuration reduced peak losses by 35.7%, lowering them to 604.87 kW and improving minimum bus voltage to 0.9161 per unit. For medium and minimum loads, losses dropped from 570 kW to 370 kW and from 140 kW to 90 kW, respectively, improvements of 35% and 36% with corresponding voltage profile enhancements.
To validate robustness, Monte Carlo simulations (1,000 iterations, ±10% load variation, ±0.05 PF deviation) confirmed the optimized topology sustained losses near 605 kW and voltages above 0.9 per unit under uncertainty. Furthermore, upgrading the most overloaded segment (Line 1–2) to an AAC 150 conductor further improves losses to 524.32 kW. While this upgrade alone provided an 8.6% gain beyond reconfiguration, the combined effect achieved a total loss reduction of 44.3% from the original case.
These results demonstrate that intelligent feeder reconfiguration, enhanced by PSO and supported by probabilistic analysis, provides a scalable, cost-effective solution for improving performance in radial distribution networks like Adwa's
POSTPARTUM CONTRACEPTIVE UTILIZATION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN WHO GAVE BIRTH IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS IN ENDAMOKONI DISTRICT, TIGRAY, NORTH ETHIOPIA. A MIXED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
No full textBackground
The first year after a woman has given birth is crucial period for uptake of contraceptives to prevent pregnancy. However, in Ethiopia contraception use in postpartum period is only 8% while unmet need is 81%. There is limited research that provided detail information regarding barriers of modern contraceptive utilization during postpartum period in the study area. In addition, earlier study also suggested that to conduct using mixed quantitative and qualitative design for additional investigations to answer these “why”questions and narrow these gaps.
Objective. This study aimed to assess postpartum contraceptive utilization and associated factors among women who gave birth in the past 12 months Endamokoni district, Tigray, northern Ethiopia 2024.
Method: A mixed type community based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 396 women in Endamokoni district, from April, 2–30/2024 Systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participant and data was collected using semi-structured pretested questionnaire and entered in to Epi data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 25.0 for analysis for quantitative. The association between variables was analyzed using bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression and level of significant determined with adjusted odd ratio at 95% CI and P-value less than < 0.05. After translation and transcription, manual thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data
Results: The prevalence of postpartum contraceptive use in Endamekoni wereda found 33.6% (95% CI: 28.6– 38.7) with a response rate of 98%. The most frequently used method was implant (17.9%). Knowledge on modern contraceptive (AOR=3.23,95% CI=2.11-3.9) and ever use of family planning, (AOR=2.58, 95% CI: 1.57-4.22) were predictors for postpartum contraceptive use. Partner opposes, myths and, need for excess family size, fear of side effect, menses not resumed were barriers to modern postpartum contraceptive utilizationn.
Conclusion and recommendation: utilization of Postpartum family planning use in the study area was low. Uptake of postpartum family planning was influenced with knowledge on FP and prior family planning use. All study area stakeholders should promote knowledge of post-partum family planning. Menses’ resumed, family planning counseling during antenatal care visit, linked to family planning unit during child immunization and good knowledge were factors associated to modern postpartum contraceptive utilization
MAGNITUDE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF ANTISOCIAL PERSONALITY DISORDER AMONG PRISONERS AT MEKELLE CORRECTIONAL CENTER, TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA, 2024/2
No full textBackground: Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a consistent pattern of disregard for and violating the rights of others, this condition starts in childhood or early adolescence and into adulthood. Families, relationships, and social functioning are all significantly impacted, and individuals with ASPD place a significant burden on the legal system as well as social and mental health agencies. Despite the fact that ASPD is a prevalent issue among prisoners, little research has been done on it in Ethiopia and there has not been any published research on the subject in Tigray.
Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of antisocial personality disorder among prisoners at Mekelle correctional center, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia, 2024.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mekelle Correctional Center with 353 participants selected through systematic random sampling. Antisocial personality disorder was assessed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th text revision and an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 27, applying bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were done to identify factors related to antisocial personality disorder. Significant predictors of antisocial personality disorder were identified with p-values below 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval and the data ware presented using text, tables and graphs.
Result: A total of 353 participants were included in the study, with a response rate of 98.33%. The prevalence of antisocial personality disorder among prisoners was found to be 23.8%, with a 95% CI of (19.4, 28.6). This study found statistically significant associations between antisocial personality disorder and history of mental illness (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.15, 6.81), previous incarceration (AOR = 3.30, 95% CI: 1.33, 8.22), poor social support (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI: 1.63, 8.49), and adverse childhood experiences (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI: 1.38, 15.80).
Conclusion: According to this study about one-quarter of the participants were found to have an anti-social personality disorder antisocial personality disorder among prisoners. History of mental illness, previous incarceration, poor social support, and adverse childhood experiences(s) were factors statistically associated with antisocial personality disorder. Addressing these factors could help reduce antisocial personality disorder prevalence and improve the mental health of the incarcerated population
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Fertilizer Input on Sorghum Productivity in Tahtay Adyabo, northwester Tigrai
No full textThis study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of various fertilizer inputs on sorghum productivity in Sheraro, Northwestern Tigray. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) plays a vital role in Ethiopian agriculture, serving as a staple food and a key source of income for many households. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research examines the impact of different types of fertilizers organic, inorganic, and blended on yield outcomes, economic viability, and soil health. Key findings indicate that nitrogen-based fertilizers are predominantly used among farmers, yet a significant interest in organic options is emerging. The economic analysis reveals that integrated nutrient management practices can enhance productivity while promoting sustainability. This study provides practical recommendations for farmers, aiming to improve their fertilizer use efficiency and inform agricultural policy decisions. By addressing the gaps in knowledge regarding fertilizer effectiveness and its economic implications, this research contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in Ethiopia
Immunomodulatory Activity Evaluation of Polysaccharides from Maerua Subcordata (Gilg) Dewolf Tuber
No full textA robust, well-functioning immune system is the cornerstone of good health. The rising prevalence of infectious diseases and immune-related disorders underscores the urgent need for effective therapeutic solutions. Plant derived immunomodulators offer promi sing alternatives, enhancing immune responses with less toxicity and fewer side effects as compared to synthetic drugs. This study investigated the chemical characterization and immu nomodulatory activity evaluation of polysaccharides extracted from the tuber of Maerua subcordata. Polysaccharides were extracted from the tuber of M. subcordata using hot water extraction, followed by the addition of ethanol and centrifugation. Carbon clearance and humoral antibody titer (HAT) tests were used to evaluate the in vivo immunomodulatory activity of both the crude drug and the polysaccharide fraction. The crude drug and the polysaccharide fraction were tested at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg in Swiss Albino mice. The chemical nature of the polysaccharide fraction was characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UVVis) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The polysaccharide fraction at 400 mg/kg bw has the maximum effect (P<0.05) on the carbon clearance rate. It increased the elimination of carbon particles by 0.1272±0.03763. The crude drug and the polysaccharide fraction increased the level of HAT against sheep red blood cell (SRBC) in comparison to the vehicle control group. Particularly, the polysaccharide fract ion at 400 mg/kg significantly (P<0.05) increases the level of mean secondary HAT (160.00 ±32.00) against SRBC, which is slightly greater than levamisole-treated groups. The FTIR analysis of polysaccharides shows the existence of various functional groups, such as alkenes, alkanes, alcohol, ether, carboxylic acid, amine, and carbonyl groups in the polysaccharide fraction. The crude drug mainly, the polysaccharide fractions exhibited promising immunostimulant activity by enhancing carbon clearance rate and humoral antibody titer tests
Load Frequency Control of Small Hydro Power Plant Based on Artificial Neural Network with Tuned PID Controller
No full textElectricity propels the advancement of society and economy, fueling sectors such as healthcare, education, and industries. Real-time adjustments in power generation are made by load frequency control to stabilize frequency and voltage, a critical factor for uninterrupted power supply. An innovative approach suggests the integration of artificial neural networks and PID controllers for enhancing the performance of small hydropower plants. The core objective of the research is to create an ANN combined with tuned PID for regulating load frequency in small hydro power plants. The thesis elaborates on the limitations of conventional PID controllers and the flexibility of the ANN-based strategy, outlining the process of plant modeling and controller configuration. Both Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers and ANN with Tuned PID controllers are commonly employed techniques. While PID controllers offer stability, the ANN with Tuned PID controllers exhibit superior adaptability and quicker responses to dynamic variations, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the SHP. Using the ANN-tuned PID controller results in significant improvements in several areas. The settling time is notably enhanced, decreasing by 74.36% compared to the untuned PID controller and 50.88% compared to the tuned PID controller. The overshoot is greatly reduced, showing a decrease of 96.29% compared to the untuned controller and 90.26% compared to the tuned controller, indicating much better stability. Additionally, the peak time increases slightly by 2.78% compared to the untuned controller and 2.14% compared to the tuned controller, demonstrating minimal delay in reaching the maximum value. These changes highlight faster, more accurate, and stable system responses with advanced tuning techniques
Factors affecting the performance of non-performing loans (NPL); case study of selected ten districts in Addis Ababa and Head office of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia
No full textThe growth and sustainability of financial institutions is dependent on how they manage non-performing loans, otherwise, it negatively affects their profitability, liquidity and asset quality, and hence performance will decline through time. In line with this, the current study has examined factors affecting non-performing loans in the case of selected ten districts in Addis Ababa and Head Office of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive survey design by applying both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The primary data were collected from 154 employees through questionnaire and 10 credit managers via interview by applying both stratified (to include a respondent from kindly each loan department unit) and lottery (to select a respondent from the first strata) sampling methods. The findings on the descriptive analysis depict that factors significant effect/influence on the performance of NPL in the bank industry. Likewise, the study found that some factors have vital influence on the performance of NPL; whereas, others like Bank size and performance (BSP), Credit Appraisal (CA) and Credit monitoring (CM) have moderate effect the performance of NPL. Moreover, the study found that all the factors except Credit Monitoring (CM) have significant effect on the performance of NPL in the bank.
Finally, the study recommended that the problems on NPL status can be resolved by securing additional collateral, sellout/buyout of loan to/from other banks, changing the form of loan partially or fully, enforcing additional conditions/covenants, replacement/improvement of the management, reduction of overdraft to a lower limit and approve additional finance if there are appropriate and concrete justifiable reasons