Open Source Science?
posted by Rebekah
UW researchers are getting on the collaboration bandwagon. This week they are unveiling Foldit, a computer game puzzle that, according to the UW, may help medical scientists end HIV or malaria. Players attempt to fold protiens in new and innovative ways that may help scientists discover the protein structure that could, for example, break up toxic waste. If a player discovers the fold that can solve some of our medical mysteries, they may be next in line to win the Nobel Prize.
After reading this article, the possibilities that arise because of collaboration seem endless. Perhaps the business model of open source and collaboration isn’t economical, but the benefits for non-profits and research are…
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2 Comments, Comment or Ping
xichibi
Using ordinary people’s computers (when the owner’s aren’t using them) to run calculations is a great idea, particularly since this can rival supercomputers, and is free. Regular people can help in some small way to combat disease.
May 22nd, 2008
Jeremy
@agilminer – Auto-generated links: “open source embroidery”? Is it possible to fine tune this at all, or perhaps limit it to searching FTM?
May 23rd, 2008
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