Peter Maasse describes a case of how pure mathematical research can turn into commercially available products within a relatively short period of time. The example he gives is software designed to improve the analysis of data gathered using the technique of MALDI imaging.

MALDI imaging is a relatively new form of mass spectrometry that can be used to study biological materials. One of the challenges with the technique is that it produces vast numbers of data that need to be analysed to produce meaningful information for medical professionals. Maasse, a mathematician at the University of Bremen in Germany, explains how pure maths research has led to new software that can help in this process.

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