After an incredible experience in the field we returned to the office to continue our experience as a researcher, seeing the process from start to finish.
Initially we were in the office with the recieving division where we were able to get to see what happens with the data we saw collected out in the field. We realized a lot fo it is simply scanning and proof reading. This part of the process specifically has an extensive presence and requires a lot of manpower. I must say I found this step somewhat tedious, as it is simply checking spreadsheets with original copies of the survey packets. However, the sense of accomplishment as you were able to catch inconsistencies, sign the bottom of the spreadsheets and see the stacks of completed folders was rewarding.
After a couple of days with the statisticians where we introduced to the data alysis software called Strata, where it was somewhat of a combination of excel and Igorpro, which is another, more advanced data analysis software system. AsI don’t find spreadsheets are not exactly the most exciting things to, this part was also a bit tougher to get through than the work in the field. Nonetheless, statistics is one area that is incredibely important and extremely useful in all areas of research and academia. I was able to compare and contrast FNRI’s techniques to that which we use for research at IWU, and gained an appreciation for what goes into interpretting the results of the ENNS (Expanded National Nutrition Survey). Moreover, every person we met who helped us and allowed us to let them see what they do were all, as usual, extremely kind and exuberant.
After these days in the office, we were lucky enough to attend the 48th annual FNRI Seminar Series where researchers discussed their projects, results/findings and plans for solutions to the nutritional issues gripping the Philippines. The first day began with a lot fo welcoming, then there were talks addressing issues ranging from malnutrition to obesity. more specific issues like growth stunting and wasting in children. In addition, FNRI also places a large focus on infant nutrition, which in turn leads to a heavy focus on pregnant and lactating mothers.
In this section, the presenters also spoke about products they had formulated that were quick and easy to cook, had good taste, and were fortified in micronutrients that specific demographics had deficiencies in. Furthermore, there were panels with local entrepeneurs and officials who spoke about how to get these products produced and distributed into the public efficiently and effectively.
We decided to stay the night at the Manila Hotel, where the Function was taking place. Let me say, oh man this place was magnificent. Beautiful cherry wood cauffered cielings, ornate archways and beautiful paintings. Many prominent historical figures and celebrities had stayed there, such as President Howard Taft, President Bill Clinton, The Beatles, and Micheal Jackson. I thought it was pretty neat to be staying in a place where these remarkable people, all remarkable in very different ways.
The second fay consisted of a variety of technical sessions with presenters displaying their research ranging from ENNS statistics to biochemical research. One interesting presentation for me came out of the NuGen lab, where the researchers used Whole Genome Analysis to examine genetic markers for obesity in samples from the Filipino population. The last couple of presenters were graduate students showing off their impressive projects used for their graduate thesis.
Another awesome week in the Philppines ended with our friends, Jake, Mia, and Aileen who work at St. Cabrini as nursing interns coming up from Batangas to hang out for the weekend. We had a great time exploring Manila.
Now we are looking forward to our next field excursion to Palawan, known to be one of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines. I am very excited to get to work once again.