For the past several years, innovative researchers have been using the Internet to send 2-D representations of their 3-D molecular models to other scientists for simultaneous viewing, with discussion by e-mail and telephone. But productivity has been hurt by the lack of true three-dimensionality—so vital to understanding these models—and the inability of researchers to see each other pointing at, annotating, or manipulating the model. Researchers also have wanted to share 3-D models and supporting data electronically with other teams and eventually publish results within the scientific community.
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