X-Message-Number: 12918
From: Thomas Donaldson <>
Subject: Re: CryoNet #12914 - #12917
Date: Thu, 9 Dec 1999 23:06:50 +1100 (EST)

Hi everyone!

A few comments:

1. Computers have been used in biochemistry for years now. Yes, just like
   physicists, the biochemists have wanted large and more powerful 
   computers. But then what else do you expect.

   As for working out how proteins would fold, the basic algorithms to do
   so have already been worked out and proven on small proteins. It's
   the LARGE proteins that are currently beyond present computer power.
   I will add also that a lot of work has gone into the problem of finding
   better algorithms, so there is a race on between those seeking better
   algorithms that will happily run on existing computers, and those who
   just want to add more power.

   As for the computers discussed, they look to me just like large
   parallel computers, with no special features. Yes, a well designed 
   parallel computer does not collapse if one computer in the group goes
   down for some reason (there are various methods to prevent the 
   collapse). 

2. I hope that everyone accessing Cryonet has a wonderful New Year!

			Best and long long life to all,

				Thomas Donaldson

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