Workshop title: Database workshop

nullThe workshop was held 19-20 February 2008 in Norwich, United Kingdom, at the Institute of Food Research. This event was organised by Gary Barker (IFR), Carmen Pin (IFR) and Jozef Baranyi (IFR).

The goal of the workshop was to train participants in using Combase and Risk Assessment databases.

Background
The workshop introduced the participants to databases that are used to explore food safety and showed how food safety datasets are used to make predictions about risk. The participants learned to differentiate between different types of information and their uses, and were introduced to using databases through hands-on sessions. During the workshop, the participants explored the possibilities of different databases and were able to use the Combases database at an introductory level.

nullTarget Group
BIOTRACER partners with an interest in learning to use databases. We are aiming to obtain a balanced group with equal participation of industry people and researchers.

Expected Outcome
Participants will explore the possibilities of different databases and will be able to use Combase and Risk Assessment databases on a simple level. The focus will be on learning to make the best use of databases that they already have access to, including how to make an intelligent inquiry. 

Programme

 

Tuesday Feb. 19th

09:00 – 10:30

Introduction to types of databases, their structure and use

 

10:30 - 11:00

Break

11:00 - 12:30

The ComBase database

ComBase structure and organization

  • Data collection and computerization in Excel.
  • Systematic database organization.
  • Browsing ComBase - internet and stand-alone versions.
  • What can (and what cannot) be derived from the database.

12:30 – 13:30

Lunch

13:30 – 15:00

Constructing ComBase sub-datasets. Using the data in Predictive Models and in Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment

  • Basic mathematical description of bacterial growth and survival.
  • Primary and secondary models.  
  • Validation. Interpolation region of models, uncertainty of predictions

15:00 – 15:30

Break

15:30 – 16:30

 

Monte-Carlo simulations for Risk Assessment

16:30 – 17:00

Demonstration of the BIOTRACER LIMS - Communication prototype by Prevas  (Sweden)

 

18:00 -

Social arrangement

Wednesday Feb. 20th   

09:00 - 10:30

Introduction – databasics 

  • Glossary of database terms
  • How to do a search?  - Structured queries and the MySQL Query Browser
  • Introduction to a model database
  • Practical - Queries in the model database

10:30 - 10:45

Break

10:45 - 11:00

Model answers – Structured queries

 

11:00 - 12:45

Case study

  • Info relating to a model case study – Bringing elements together
  • Practical session - Completing the case study
  • Model answers – case study

12:45 - 14:00

Lunch

14:00 – 15:00

Final discussion