Q.: How often will the data sources be updated?
A.: All local sources, i.e. CR-EST, MoMa will be updated as new data from our cooperation partners becomes available.
As to the update cycles of the external sources, we have not yet determined what the intervals of updates shall be. Maybe you can give us some advice?
Q.: How can I find the current version of the data used from external data sources, like EMBL or TIGR genomes?
A.: Once public data becomes available we will also provide the necessary
information.
Q.: Can I freely download the tools and data that is provided via the Plant Bioinformatics Portal?
A.: Yes, as long as we provide that data or the tools via the portal, they are freely accessible. We encourage the use of open source and public licenses in bioinformatics.
Q.: In case, I would like to submit/upload other data or own developed tools, what will I have to do?
A.: Please, consider that we focus on plant data. If you have interesting data or tools you feel fit into our portal, please contact
Uwe Scholz at scholz@ipk-gatersleben.de. Describe the data and also its format or describe the tool and APIs plus requirements, like BioPerl modules and the like, of the tool. We will then evaluate the feasibility of your request and get back to you.
Q.: Why would I use your portal, instead of visiting every single data source separately?
A.: Because the portal offers not only the data as such but as an integrated data stock where applicable. Plus, you can also use the provided tools to analyze the data. In most cases, this allows for a comprehensive and faster access to a variety of either data or results.
Q.: Is the Plant Bioinformatics Portal open for support from other people?
A.: Aim of our portal is also to foster communication and interaction at all levels of plant research. Thus, we are grateful for any support.
Q.: Who assures the accuracy of the data provided?
A.: For all in-house collected data sources, we rely on the expertise of our colleaques. Concerning the external data sources, we apply filtering tools while importing the data into the data warehouse. Of course, that cannot account for all erroneous data. Therefore, we also work on methods to apply more effective analyses to detect faulty or misleading data. People who possess one or the other experience in cleansing and filtering biological data are very welcome to share their experiences with us.
