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Technical University of Munich (TUM)


The disappearance of common species

A study published in Biological Conservation found that widespread insects are threatened with a decline in species diversity, genetic diversity, and ability to adapt to environmental changes. The research highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through population exchange for common species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 1, 2018

Double strike against tuberculosis

Researchers at TUM and Harvard University discovered a substance that interferes with the formation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis' mycomembrane. Combining this beta-lactone inhibitor with known antibiotics increases effectiveness by up to 100-fold, making it a promising new therapy for TB.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 28, 2017

Biofilms as construction workers

Researchers at Technical University of Munich use biofilms to guide microorganisms in creating tailor-made templates for new materials. This process utilizes light, heat, and other stimuli to control the movement of microbes, enabling the creation of complex networks with natural structures.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 19, 2017

How do bacteria adapt?

Researchers developed a model that explains how bacteria adapt to environmental changes, such as temperature and nutrient availability. The study found that the adaptation mechanism is based on a global strategy for redistributing resources, which allows bacteria to survive in fluctuating environments.

Flipping the electron spin

Researchers at TUM and Jülich Institute have developed a novel EPR spectroscopy process to investigate lithium plating in lithium-ion batteries. This allows for the detection of metallic lithium deposits on anodes, which can reduce battery capacity and lifespan.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMaterials Today·DateDec 6, 2017

Urban trees are growing faster worldwide

A global study reveals that urban trees have been growing faster than rural trees since the 1960s, with an average growth rate of 20% across all climate zones. The heat island effect is believed to be the primary driver of this acceleration, leading to increased photosynthetic activity and prolonged vegetation periods.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 13, 2017

Ghana's pineapple farmers need more intensive training

A team from the Technical University of Munich found that complex agricultural techniques require professional training, but many Ghanaian pineapple farmers lack access to effective training. The researchers suggest increasing focus on intensive and sustainable training methods to improve yields and income for Ghana's small-scale farmers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEnvironment and Development Economics·DateNov 9, 2017

Novel Nano-CT device creates high-resolution 3D-X-rays of tiny velvet worm legs

The TUM Nano-CT system produces images with resolutions up to 100 nanometers, allowing investigation of individual muscle strands in velvet worm legs. The device has potential applications in biomedical research and medicine, enabling non-destructive examination of tissue samples and clarification of tumor malignancy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 2017

How forest fires spoil wine

Glycosylation of smoke-derived volatiles in grapevine is catalyzed by a promiscuous resveratrol/guaiacol glucosyltransferase, leading to undesirable aromas in wine. The study provides insight into the molecular mechanism behind this phenomenon and potential counter-measures for vintners.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateSep 26, 2017

Chemical hot spots

Researchers at Technical University of Munich used a scanning tunneling microscope to analyze the surface activity of catalysts. They found that defects on the surface create ideal conditions for catalysis by attracting but not holding onto hydrogen ions.

Help from the stomach for dry eyes

Researchers have developed a new contact lens coating made from a molecule found in pig stomach mucus, which can prevent tissue damage caused by dry eyes. The coating is long-term protective and requires no repeated applications, offering an alternative to existing hyaluronic acid products.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateAug 1, 2017

Biofuel from waste

Researchers at TUM have created a new process to convert organic waste into fuel, utilizing zeolite catalysts that reduce temperatures and energy requirements. The process takes place in confined spaces inside zeolite crystals, increasing reaction rates by up to 100 times.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2017

More democracy through mathematics

Researchers at TUM have developed a mathematical method to calculate optimally sized voting districts, reducing the need for controversial redistricting processes. The methodology achieves optimal solutions with deviations below 15% from the average size of electoral districts, making it applicable to many countries.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research·DateJun 23, 2017

Clear view on stem cell development

Researchers developed an algorithm to correct images and make hitherto hidden development steps visible, allowing for more accurate detection of regulatory proteins active during stem cell development. The 'BaSiC' software can correct changes in the background of time-lapse videos, making it a valuable tool for stem cell researchers.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 21, 2017

Watching cities grow

Researchers from TUM develop new algorithm to reconstruct 4D point clouds of cities from satellite images, enabling early detection of dangers like subsidence and collapse. The method improves precision on a fraction of the radar wavelength, allowing for monitoring of urban growth and development.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJun 20, 2017