Computer Use and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Reading assignment #10


Source:

Andersen, Johan Hvii (2003). Computer Use and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The Journal of the American Medical Association, vol. 289 no. 22, June 11, 2003. retrieved September 26, 2009


Abstract

With the constant use of computer today at home or office, we often undermine its negative effects such as eye strain, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, addiction, musculoskeletal disorder or nerve injuries. This article discusses the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The study aims to determine the contribution of weekly use of mouse devices and keyboards, work-related physical factors, work-related psychosocial factors, and individual characteristics in the occurrence and onset of possible CTS.

Things learned:

1. The CTS were not really the result of excessive used of computer devices but also with other medical disorder.

2. It is probable that tingling and numbness are common symptoms of either specific medical condition other than CTS or are part of a large burden of medically unexplained symptoms that reflect the stresses and strains of everyday life.

3. The excessive use of computer causes a lot of strain and stress.

REFLECTIONS

In using computer devices at home or at work it is important that we observe proper posture, position of the device and the use appropriate equipments. There are a lot of equipments ergonomically made to lessen stress at the work place. Lets put in mind that proper nutrition and rest is also very important in our everyday life.

Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003vvVol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003 Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003Vol. 289 No. 22, June 11, 2003

The Philippine Rules on Electronic Evidence

Reading Assignment #9


Source:

Soriano, Jaime N. The Philippine Rules on electronic Evidence: An Outline. The Philippine IT Law Journal. retrieved September 18, 2009 from http://www.arellanolaw.net/publish/itlj-issue1_02.html


Abstract:


The article discusses court rules on electronic evidence of the Supreme court of the Philippines in accordance with e-Commerce Act of 2000. It outlines rules of legal acceptability, validity and legitimacy of recorded documents when presented in court. It poses factors to reconsider in determining evidentiary weight of electronic evidence namely;

1. Reliability of manner or method in which it was generated, stored or communicated.
   
   
2. Reliability of the manner in which the originator was identified.
   
   
3. Integrity of the information and communication system in which it is recorded or stored.
   
   
4. Familiarity of the system by the person who made the entry.
   
   
5. The nature and quality of the information that went into the communication system where the electronic document was based.
   
   
6. Other factors affecting accuracy and integrity of the electronic documents.

Lesson learned:

1. To test the authenticity of an electronic evidence, an expert must justify that the e-copy is a true copy of the original.
2. Electronic evidence alone can't be use in court. It should be supported by testimonies. It should be testified true by a person involved or a competent person like for example in presenting ephemeral electronic evidence like telephone conversations, text messages, chat sessions and other forms of communication that is not recorded or retained.
3. Video conferencing and other streaming technologies can be done in court provided that it is properly documented.


Reflection:

Reading the article reminds me of the controversial "hello Garci tape" and FPJ case. How these cases progress and died a natural death because of paucity of evidence integrity and a questionable authenticity of electronic documents presented.

As librarians (and archivists alike), it is important that we are bounded by professional ethics not by politics. In cases where we need to testify in court electronic evidence, authentic information must only presented. What is confidential must remained undisclosed unless needed by court.

e-Publishing

Reading Assignment #8


Source:
Project Gutenberg: The First Open Publishing Initiative. Information for Development, vol. vi, no. 2, February 2008. retrieved from http://i4donline.net/feb08/feb08.pdf on September 11, 2009.


Abstract:

The article discusses Project Gutenburg (PG) as the unique e-Project not only digitize, store and manage old books and rare manuscripts,but also to ensure transparency, originality and operational effectiveness for many authors, editors and publishers. Been operational in 1971,PG aims to create and distribute as many e-Books in as many formats as possible for the entire world to read in as many language as possible. PG fosters open access system and provides copyright free e-books for downloading. Importantly, PG's e-books are in plain text that can be read without specialized software or hardware.

Things I Learned:

1. Internet users have important roles in development of e-publishing. Users can create, modify and change downloaded materials. Users can own and create edition of e-books (applications of Web 2.0 technologies). Users and readers can get to select books to digitize.
2. Can get e-publications of rare books freely.
3. A milestone in digitization and preservation of classic literature.


Reflection:

E-publication is an example of collaborative work. Like in open source software help from volunteers) is just one click away. With e-publications/e-publishing we can access world literature free of charge. Hope that this Project Gutenburg will serve as our inspiration to preserve and advertise to the world the heritage and culture of the Filipino people.

IRRI Library

Reading Assignment #7


Visiting IRRI library last August was a good experience. More than the fresh air and the close to nature experience, we have a chance to take a look at the library, IRRI's top of the line Millennium ILS with modules reliably support simple, everyday library transactions while at the same time meeting the demands of the most sophisticated cataloger, circulation manager, or web librarian (www.iii.com) and most importantly their exemplary practices and non-traditional ways of rendering services to its clienteles.

Enriched with information resources mostly in rice literature, IRRI library continually thrives to give first hand information to researchers here and abroad by utilizing Web 2.0 concepts. Faster communication is a key to good service. Incorporating Web 2.0 technologies like instant messaging, document delivery and networking, the library paved the way to reach a lot of clienteles world wide faster and economical. The availability of online catalog and rice databases with hyperlinks to full-text electronic databases (e-journals, open access resources) is very beneficial to a lot of their researchers. Equipped with good interface. One look at their library system, one can easily understand it and be usable by individuals even with minimal computer training. These made IRRI library away further from the rest.

Like other libraries, IRRI library thrives for its existence. High quality IRS does not come cheap. Its a challenge for them how to maintain a costly library system. One thing I've learned that despite all these constraints they never stop striving to make information available (even those expensive ones) and still they were able to render efficient service to their clienteles. True to their mission, they are not swayed by financial problems but instead they become even been more resourceful, innovative and creative. A great motivation for us who are just starting.

Foodie stuff: We will never forget the mouth watery Sinugno (its sweet gata you just want to have more) and the challenging suso; all those hungry catfishes (hito) waiting for anything to be devoured (especially the sili); and all those good memories we have in this trip.