Clinical Research Directory

Gardening Activities, Stress, and Social Interaction Among University Students

This study is a quasi-experimental research project with a pretest-posttest control group design, structured to determine the effect of organized gardening activities on peer interaction, stress levels, and nature engagement behaviors among university students.The population of the research consists of students from the Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS) at Bingol University. The sample size, determined via G\*Power analysis (including a 20% anticipated drop-out rate), comprises a total of 100 volunteer students, divided into an intervention group (n = 50) and a control group (n = 50).The intervention group will participate in a structured program held twice weekly for 1 month (totaling 8 sessions, 60-90 minutes each) in the VSHS garden, encompassing soil preparation, paired seedling planting, group-oriented maintenance, and landscaping activities. The control group will maintain their routine campus life.Data will be collected using a Personal Information Form, the Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale (Coping with Stress), the University Life Scale (Peer Relations Subscale), and the Connectedness to Nature Scale. The data will be evaluated through homogeneity tests and parametric/non-parametric comparative analyses (t-tests, Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney U).Contingency plans (Plan B)-such as indoor potted plant/terrarium workshops and buffer sample recruitment-are established to address adverse weather conditions, sample attrition, and seasonal risks.

Advancing Female University Students' Health Through Mobile Technology in Ethiopia

Background: Female university students in Ethiopia experience a high burden of sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, and psychosocial problems, exacerbated by limited access to essential health services and support. Mobile technology provides an opportunity to deliver accessible, evidence-based health interventions. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile technology-based intervention in improving SRH, nutrition, and psychosocial well-being among female university students in Ethiopia. Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods study will be conducted among first-year female university students. Baseline quantitative and qualitative assessments will identify needs, barriers, and facilitators. A randomized controlled trial will evaluate a comprehensive mobile health education intervention delivered monthly. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis. Expected Outcomes: Improved sexual and reproductive health, dietary practices, and psychosocial well-being among female university students. Duration and Budget: The project will be implemented over the proposed study period with a total budget of 1,208,564 Ethiopian birr.