Publication Date
5-2015
Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)
2-20-2015
Type of Culminating Activity
Thesis
Degree Title
Master of Science in Computer Science
Department
Computer Science
Supervisory Committee Chair
Timothy Andersen, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
Jeff Habig, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
Elena A. Sherman, Ph.D.
Abstract
VPEvolve is a free and open source application that utilizes a Visual Programming Environment (VPE) for the setup of the Genetic Algorithm (GA), for optimization of computational models. Specifically, the User Interface uses connected glyphs to represent the genetic operators of mutation, reproduction, fitness and selection. These glyphs give the user an intuitive way to set the parameters for the GA, and better visualization of the population's flow through these operators.
VPEvolve is currently being developed alongside research being done in Biocomputing to create models of cellular regeneration based on the regenerative properties of Planaria or flatworms. Since these models are difficult to produce by hand, GAs can be particularly useful to facilitate the process of model creation and validation. VPEvolve is a client-side application that allows the user to setup the parameters for the GA, runs a search using the GA, utilizes a modeling platform, such as CellSim (Cellular Simulator), to perform simulations, evaluates the fitness of each individual with user-defined fitness evaluators and presents the fitness values of the individuals in a population to the user as the evolutionary search is performed.
Recommended Citation
Cornia, Nicolas Scott, "Developing an Application for Evolutionary Search for Computational Models of Cellular Development" (2015). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 945.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/td/945
Included in
Computational Engineering Commons, Computer and Systems Architecture Commons, Molecular Biology Commons