"Could the errors simply be because the format in the database was incorrect?"
Sure, could be that, or could be the character set for the connection.
If you can reproduce the error again, let me know and I will take a look.
Your friends over here at WebAssist! These Dreamweaver extensions will assist you in building unlimited, custom websites.
These out-of-the-box solutions provide you proven, tested applications that can be up and running now. Build a store, a gallery, or a web-based email solution.