Open source Digital Bacteria 125
FiReaNGeL writes "Scientists have constructed a software capable of simulating organisms at the molecular, single-cell and population levels. The program, called AgentCell, will soon be available, open sourced under a BSD license. "With AgentCell we can simulate the behavior of entire populations of cells as they sense their environment, respond to stimuli and move in a three-dimensional world". The researchers have designed their digital bacterial system in modules, so that additional components may be added later - "The hope is that people will modify the code or add some new capabilities". AgentCell has possible applications in cancer research, drug development and combating bioterrorism. Lots of movies and pictures are available, along with a detailed press release describing the program."
Huh? (Score:1, Funny)
There are 10 kinds (Score:3, Funny)
Poor server... (Score:4, Funny)
This Is New? (Score:5, Funny)
That, and news on free "sword sharpeners", if ya get my meaning.
I remember the old game of "Life" that simulated growth with very simple rules. Sounds like the game has grown up.
Great... (Score:3, Funny)
Let's not dis this development - (Score:5, Funny)
Re:What about us? (Score:5, Funny)
Well, first, no - if we're in a giant box, and the laws of physics defined therein cause us to see and experience what we're seeing and experiencing, then... no. That's the framework of our universe. We can't operate outside of that framework, so kvetching about it isn't very productive.
And second, you'll be getting the munchies very soon, I'm guessing.
Digital disease (Score:5, Funny)
Anybody know the cure for digital chlamydia?
I networked with this infected computer and didnt have my firewall turned on.
Pathogen games for the PS3 (Score:3, Funny)
I can't wait until this becomes an actual game:
"Cell-Wars 3D. Engineer your own pathogens and destroy up to 5000 different types of organisms! Experience multiplayer action over the Internet in a race to be the quickest and most destructive pathogen.
Be sure to enter in our annual contest. The winner will get to see their pathogen recreated in real life by our molecular engineers and injected into a mouse! Total insane action!"
Probably after the actually release it. (Score:3, Funny)
Blockquoth the article:
"As soon as this is done the code will be available for download. Stay tuned."
Besides, the MiB don't operate on the entire planet. Perhaps that's the best argument for releasing something which may have questionable applications as open source - you can't undo it once it's done.
Re:Huh? (Score:3, Funny)
Re:This Is New? (Score:3, Funny)
I think maybe you have a virus.
I can see them writing the press release now... (Score:3, Funny)
Bob: Oooh ooh...and maybe the frontpage on some reputable internet discussion board *cough*.
-Nano.
Interesting Issues (Score:2, Funny)
Now, it seems the tables have turned. OSS has turned into the exact thing that it despises. I personally think this article raises some interesting issues, particularly concerning living organisms being forced to use open source just because that is the only option available to them.
Where's the birdie? (Score:2, Funny)
OK, someone was actually given a research grant to produce a new version of Life?
Yes, I'll have what they're smokin', thank you.
Re:There are 10 kinds (Score:3, Funny)
* Those that have off-by-one errors in the code,
* and those that don't.
Orgasms? (Score:3, Funny)
Am I the only one who had to read that thrice to verify that it in fact did not say "orgasms"?
Imagine the military applications of software capable of simulating orgasms at the population level!
Maybe I just need caffeine.
Re:Poor server... (Score:1, Funny)
Re:There are 10 kinds (Score:5, Funny)