Melanoma-afflicted Bay of Plenty author Ron Murray dies three days after receiving final book

Arts & Culture, Books

He carried on and completed About Those Shells: A Seashell Aficionado’s Gentle Guide and Tribute to the Common Shells of the Bay of Plenty, in which he shared with others the beauty he found in shells.One of Ron Murray’s last photos at the beach, photographing shells for his novel About Those Shells. Photo / James SmithMurray held the book in his hands and died peacefully three days later.His wife Jill said he was “visibly and physically relieved” when the books arrived due to his quick decline in health. His memory was failing, but even then, a pen and pad were kept by the bed so he could write down anything he’d remember at night.AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.“The written word is something he really loved – it was only [in] the last two weeks when he stopped doing all the crosswords and things … The shell book was the only thing that kept him going, and when they arrived, his health declined.”Jill and Murray first met in 1978 and were together for over 40 years. They met over their backyard fences in Auckland when they were flatting as 20-year-olds, she said between laughter.Even though he’s gone now, she said they had many good years together filled with lots of travel, humour, and love for their two sons.Ron Murray and his wife Jill. Photo / Ron MurrayHe wasn’t a “standard issue” type of person, but rather a “multi-faceted, sharp-minded, and quirky” individual: so quirky that he was that younger kid saving all his pocket money to buy an encyclopaedia instead of a soccer ball.A former colleague and friend of Murray’s, James Smith, said he first met him about five years ago while working in public relations, but it was during his last living month that he got to know Murray better.Smith helped Murray photograph the shells for his book – something he was “very particular about”, too – and said, “Ron was determined not to let cancer overshadow his joy in life.”“I got to know him a lot better and to help him fulfill his dream, because the book is [the result of] quite a lot of inspiration about the shells he’s collected over the years … He was determined to get it published because he knew he was running out of time.”His favourite memory with him would be “one of the last”: when Murray called him when the books arrived, wanting Smith there so they could open the package together.“It made me feel privileged and humbled. When we opened it, you could honestly see the joy and relief on him as he flicked through the pages.“He said, ‘Great, mission accomplished’.”AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.Jill said her favourite things about her husband were that he was a man of many talents, and his generosity and willingness to give time to people.He loved woodturning and surfing, also ensuring that when he passed, his loved ones had items to remember him by.He wrote notes and poems for people and put them into rubber bands around his newly received books along with bowls he made, which Jill has been delivering on his behalf.Murray had expressed before he passed away that he wanted a gathering at a later date and not a funeral. His wish has been fulfilled, and his family and friends will gather on March 1 in Pāpāmoa to celebrate his life.If anyone wants to buy his final novel About Those Shells, it’s available on Amazon.com.The front cover of About Those Shells by Ron Murray.Malisha Kumar is a multimedia journalist based in Hamilton. She joined the Waikato Herald in 2023 after working for Radio 1XX in Whakatāne.AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.

Can Trump Travel As President? Here’s Where His Convicted Felon Status Could Be A Problem.

Travel

ToplinePresident-elect Donald Trump was formally convicted of a felony Friday after he was found guilty in May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, a status that could impact his travel as president to the dozens of countries that refuse or restrict entry to potential visitors with a felony on their criminal records.

Key Facts

Judge Juan Merchan gave Trump an “unconditional discharge” Friday, meaning he won’t face any penalties for his crimes, including restrictions on travel that could have been imposed by the state of New York with a probation or other sentence.

But that doesn’t mean he’ll be exempt from the tough international travel restrictions other countries apply to felons—including India, China, Canada and the United Kingdom, all of which have strict requirements for visitors with criminal histories, if they’re allowed in at all.

Sixteen countries, including the United States, don’t allow foreigners with felony convictions to enter the country, and another 22 have laws that allow them to kick out any visitors once their record is discovered, even though they don’t actively screen criminal records at points of entry, according to World Population Review.

Trump’s sentencing means he can now formally appeal his conviction and try to have it overturned, which he has said he plans to do, and even without a successful appeal it’s possible international leaders would make exceptions for a sitting president.

Countries that may pose an issue for Trump to visit in his next term include Canada, which is set to host next year’s G7 summit, and Israel, Japan, the U.K., India, China and Argentina, all of which he visited in his first term.

Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you’ll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here.

Surprising Fact
Trump wouldn’t be the first president to need a travel exception. Former President George W. Bush had to apply for a special waiver to enter Canada due to a misdemeanor drunk driving conviction from 1976.

What Countries Deny Entry To Convicted Felons?
India, China, Japan, Iran, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Kenya, Argentina, Canada, Australia, Taiwan, Cuba, Israel, New Zealand and Macau, according to World Population Review.
What Countries Have “denied If Discovered” Laws?
Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Ethiopia, Egypt, the Philippines, Turkey, Tanzania, South Korea, Morocco, Ukraine, Malaysia, Peru, Nepal, Chile, Cambodia, Tunisia, the Dominican Republic, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Singapore and Ireland, according to World Population Review.
What Countries Did Trump Visit In His First Term?
Trump visited Saudi Arabia, Israel, Italy, Vatican City, Belgium, Poland, Germany, France, Japan, China, South Korea, North Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Switzerland, Canada, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Finland, France, Argentina, Japan, Afghanistan, India and the West Bank between May of 2017 and February 2020.
What Else Could Trump’s Felony Conviction Impact?
Trump isn’t allowed to legally own a gun now that he’s a convicted felon, and he’ll have to provide a DNA sample for New York’s crime database per state law. Trump will still be able to vote under Florida state law, where he has lived and been registered to vote since 2020. Trump will not be able to pardon himself because he was convicted on a state charge, not a federal one.

Key Background
A jury found Trump guilty on 34 felony counts after a weekslong trial involving a hush money payment his ex-attorney Michael Cohen made to adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election. Trump reimbursed Cohen through a series of payments incorrectly labeled as being for legal services, and he was convicted of falsifying business records. Trump is the first-ever former or sitting president to be formally convicted of a felony.

Further Reading

Achilles Information Limited appoints Mr. Manish Patel as General Manager, USA and Canada

Technology

Achilles is pleased to announce that Manish Patel has joined the Achilles Group to head up our recently acquired GRMS business in the newly created role of General Manager, USA and Canada.

Manish joins us from a 20+ years fintech risk management background. Most recently, he was Vice President, Commercial at Featurespace™, a world leader in Enterprise Financial Crime prevention for fraud and Anti-Money Laundering. Prior to this, Manish spent 8 years working with ACI in a variety of senior leadership roles across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and North America. Manish resides in Florida.

Manish’s appointment strengthens Achilles Group’s growth ambitions and reinforces GRMS’ role as the go to business and technology partner for North American clients wishing to proactively manage and reduce supply chain risk and enhance business resilience.

Manish will work closely with GRMS’ cofounders, Gerard Smith and Joe Fabiani, building on their work over the last 14 years to accelerate GRMS’s trajectory in North America as well as oversee its integration with other businesses within the global Achilles Group to provide our clients with a wider range of solutions and even greater value.

Great Movies From the ’00s That Bombed At The Box Office

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

Sometimes, there are some movies out there that just bomb. Like, either fall flat entirely or end up being disappointments. But there were actually a ton of those types of movies in the 2000s from so many different studios and different genres, and many of them happen to be great – or, at the very least, entertaining. Here are some box-office bombs (all according to Box Office Mojo) that are actually worth the time.(Image credit: WDAS)Treasure Planet (2002)I literally can’t think of a better example than Treasure Planet. It is an adaptation of the novel Treasure Island, one of Disney’s 2000s films that just utterly flopped. The film has stunning animation, a really cool soundtrack, and memorable characters. But while it cost $140 million to make, it only earned $109.6 million. Thankfully, the film itself has gained a lot more praise over the last few decades.(Image credit: Sony Pictures Releasing)Punch-Drunk Love (2002)When you think of Adam Sandler’s best rom-com movies, I’m sure there are plenty that come to mind. Still, one of his best dramas is Punch-Drunk Love, a film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson that tells the story of a man with social anxiety who falls for his sister’s co-worker. The movie, while very heartfelt and a great testament to Sandler’s acting skills, only earned $24.7 million on a $25 million budget.(Image credit: Sony)Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story (2007)Directed by Jake Kasdan, Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story stars John C Reilly as the titular subject. It tells a fictional story of a rock and roll star and is hilarious and so much fun. But the film only ended up earning $20.6 million on a $35 million budget, which is honestly shocking considering how many stars are in it.(Image credit: DreamWorks)Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas (2003)Prior to the later years of DreamWorks, when we were just consumed with all the Shrek films and so much more, the animation company was still releasing some 2D hits – one of them being Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas. It’s all about a pirate who travels the sea with his crew to recover a stolen magical book that would save Sinbad from a death sentence. As someone who does love this film, I was shocked to see it only made $80 million on a $60 million budget, which is a disappointment.(Image credit: Warner Bros.)Death To Smoochy (2002)Directed by Danny DeVito and starring Robin Williams, Death to Smoochy is a black comedy film about a former children’s television host who makes it his mission to sabotage the man who replaced him. Despite having a great star at the helm and a good cast, the film only made $8.3 million on a $50 million budget, but the movie is funny and has a great story.(Image credit: Warner Bros.)Osmosis Jones (2001)I don’t know how it happened, but Osmosis Jones has become ingrained into my brain as an older Gen Z’r who grew up viewing this film in her science classes. The movie is all about a white blood cell that teams up with a cold pill and how it works to save the humans it inhabits. Yes, this is a movie, and it’s hilarious. It stars Chris Rock, but somehow, the movie made only $14 million on a $70 million budget.Your Daily Blend of Entertainment News(Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford (2007)I know that title is a handful, but hands down, I think The Assassination of Jesse James by The Coward Robert Ford is one of Brad Pitt’s best films, and no one talks about it. The movie, based on the novel of the same name, follows the lives and relationships of Jesse James and Robert Ford and what led to James’s murder. While the movie cost $30 million to make, it ended up only making $15.3, but it is worth every second.(Image credit: Disney)The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)I was shocked when I found out The Emperor’s New Groove was actually a box office disappointment, despite growing up loving this movie. The movie is about an Emperor who is selfish and accidentally turns into a llama thanks to his ex-advisor. He now has to find a way to become human again. The movie is so much fun, but it had a $100 million budget and only earned back $169.7 million, which makes it a disappointment.(Image credit: Mosfilm)Solaris (2002)There was so much going for Solaris – directed by Steven Soderbergh, produced by James Cameron, a star-studded cast, and telling a fun sci-fi story in a space station that orbits a planet and the struggle of survival. But the movie only made $30 million on a $47 million budget.(Image credit: Searchlight Pictures)Sunshine (2007)Director Danny Boyle is responsible for many notable films, from Slumdog Millionaire to 28 Days Later; however, Sunshine is one of the few that was a total bomb. The sci-fi thriller follows the story of several astronauts who are sent to reignite the sun as it threatens Earth’s lives. Sure, there are some scientific inaccuracies, but the movie is stunning and has excellent acting. Unfortunately, it only made $34.8 million on a $40 million budget.(Image credit: Touchstone Pictures)The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)As someone who has binged all of Wes Anderson’s movies, I was surprised to see that The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou bombed. The movie had so many stars, plenty of color (as most Anderson films have), and a fun story, but it only earned $34.8 million on a $50 million budget.(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (2004)Chances are, you haven’t heard of this film, as I didn’t before I checked it out. Kerry Conran directed the movie, which has a stellar cast, a fun story, and really cool visual effects. But the movie was a bomb, only making $57.9 million on a $70 million budget.(Image credit: Universal)Children Of Men (2006)Children of Men is another great thriller on this list, and Alfonso Cuaron brought it to the big screen. Set in the year 2027, the film follows the brink of human collapse as refugees seek help in the United Kingdom. While it’s an interesting idea with a lot of promise, the movie didn’t even make back its budget, with only $70.5 million against $76 million. There are so many great behind-the-scenes facts about Children of Men, too, ones you should check out.(Image credit: Dreamworks)Almost Famous (2000)Directed by Cameron Crowe, Almost Famous is a comedy-drama that is so much fun. It tells the story of a teenage journalist who follows a rock band in the 1970s to write his first cover story for Rolling Stone magazine. The movie itself received several Academy Award nominations but only earned $47.4 million on a $60 million budget.(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)Idiocracy (2006)Mike Judge brought Idiocracy to the screen in 2006. The movie tells the story of a librarian and a prostitute who are put in an experiment to wake up several hundreds of years in the future in a world that isn’t intelligent. The movie received good reviews but failed to even make back its $2.4 million budget, earning an abysmal $495,303.(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)There are some fantastic stop-motion films out there, and Fantastic Mr. Fox certainly tops that list. But did you know that Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox was actually a box office disappointment? Despite receiving critical acclaim, the movie only made $46.2 million on a $40 million budget.(Image credit: Universal Pictures)Peter Pan (2003)Was I a part of the generation that absolutely went feral over Jeremy Sumpter as Peter Pan in Peter Pan? You betcha, but what I didn’t know was that this adaptation of the classic fairytale, despite having a big fanbase now, was actually a bomb. The film cost $130 million, while it only earned back $122 million. That’s honestly stunning to me because you have seen this movie. Excellent, all of it.(Image credit: Disney)A Christmas Carol (2009)You know, it’s funny. I distinctly remember going to the theater to see this movie with my dad because I was such a fan of Jim Carrey’s best movies. I remember seriously loving this interpretation of A Christmas Carol. But despite the interesting animation and great motion-capture performance from Carrey, this movie didn’t make a profit against its budget.(Image credit: Disney)Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)Disney really lost a lot of money in the 2000s with some of its releases because Atlantis: The Lost Empire bombed so hard. While the movie itself is beautifully animated and has a voice cast that features the likes of Michael J. Fox, James Garner, and more, it did not do well and only surpassed its budget but didn’t make a profit.(Image credit: Universal Pictures)Slither (2006)While James Gunn has made himself known nowadays for his other sci-fi movies, there was a time when some of his older films did bomb. Slither, a sci-fi horror film, tells the story of a town that becomes the host for an alien parasite. The movie, while it had a small budget, didn’t even make it back, earning only $12.8 million.(Image credit: Dreamworks)Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002)Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is an excellent example of a movie that has earned a lot more fame over time rather than when it was initially released. It follows a horse that tries to escape capture during the American Indian Wars and receives help from other horses. It’s not like most other animated films out there, and while people love the movie now, the film only earned $122.6 million against a $80 million budget, making it a disappointment.(Image credit: DreamWorks Pictures)The Ruins (2008)If you’re looking for a horror film, then The Ruins might be the one for you. Based on the novel of the same name, The Ruins is about a pair of couples who happen to go on vacation to Mexico and visit an old Mayan ruin, only for it to be inhabited by vines that eat people. An original horror idea, the movie is a ton of fun, but when it came out, it only earned $22.9 million on a $25 million budget.(Image credit: Arrow Films)Donnie Darko (2001)Donnie Darko has become a cult classic over the years. It tells the story of a teenager who suffers from sleepwalking. This actually prevents him from getting in an accident, and because of this, he ends up having visions of someone saying the world is going to end soon. Yeah, this movie is weird, but it’s a heck of a good time. When it first came out, it only earned $4.5 million on a $7.5 million budget.(Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)Speed Racer (2008)In a world where the Fast and Furious movies have dominated the big screen in any form when it comes to car chases, Speed Racer was a welcome change from that. Directed by The Wachowskis, the film is based on the manga of the same name and follows a teenage racer. The movie is a ton of fun and has some great action sequences, but it only earned $93.9 million on a $120 million budget.(Image credit: DreamWorks)The Road To El Dorado (2000)Everyone always forgets about The Road to El Dorado, at least in my experience. The movie, hailing from DreamWorks Animation, tells the story of two con artists who won a map that supposedly leads them to the city of El Dorado, but of course, when they arrive, the people who live there think they are gods. While the movie is hilarious in many ways, it didn’t earn that much money, earning only $76.4 million against a $95 million budget.(Image credit: The Weinstein Company)Grindhouse (2007)What do you get when you combine two crazy directors, Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, and make a horror comedy/slasher film? You get Grindhouse, a movie that has two films in one. While Grindhouse won’t be on any list for the best horror movies ever, it’s a heck of a lot of fun for a scary film. But, despite its impressive cast, the movie only made about $25.4 million and didn’t surpass its budget.(Image credit: Sony Pictures Releasing)Ali (2001)When you think of the best Will Smith movies, hands down, Ali is one that comes to mind. He portrayed the famous boxer Muhammed Ali, earning him an Academy Award nomination. However, despite being a career win for Smith, the film only earned $87.7 million and didn’t surpass its initial budget.(Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures)Pay It Forward (2000)If you’re looking for a romantic drama that no one seems to talk about, then you have to check out Pay It Forward. The film is about a child who decides to launch a movement called “pay it forward” and how it changes the community and the people he loves. The movie teaches some good lessons and is sweet in many ways, but it only earned $55.7 million against a $40 million budget.(Image credit: Warner Bros.)Poseidon (2006)Adapting the 1969 novel The Poseidon Adventure, the film tells the story of the survivors of a capsized ship and how they must survive. The film has a big cast, led by Kurt Russell, but it didn’t earn that much money. On a budget of $160 million, the movie only earned back about $181.7 million, which is a disappointment, which is a shame because it really is a lot of fun.(Image credit: Universal Pictures)Mulholland Drive (2001)While David Lynch is known for making some pretty successful films, Mulholland Drive is one of the few that wasn’t. Starring Justin Theroux and Naomi Watts, the film mainly follows a new actress and her time in L.A., as well as the people she meets and the mysteries that happen. Despite having great reviews, the film only earned $20.1 million worldwide.(Image credit: Universal)Evan Almighty (2007) A spinoff of Bruce Almighty, this film starring Steve Carell is one that I have always personally enjoyed. This time, it follows Evan as he is chosen by God to essentially become the new Noah and create a boat for a giant flood. While the film did not receive the best reviews, it’s a film I always think is fun for families to enjoy and has plenty of funny moments – and the movie only earned $174.4 million, not surpassing its initial budget of $175 million.(Image credit: Touchstone Pictures)The Alamo (2004)The Alamo is what you would expect it to be—a movie about the famous battle at the Alamo. Is it going to be one of the best war movies out there? No, but it is still exciting to watch, especially with its big cast. However, the movie only earned $25.8 million when it had a budget of $107 million.Honestly, there are other tremendous or exciting movies out there that bombed but deserve so much more praise now. Maybe now you’ll have a movie marathon with all these great picks.

Unlocking the Ignorosphere: Tokyo’s Breakthrough in Atmospheric Science

Science and Health

The sun rises above the Pacific Ocean revealing the terminator, the line between night and day on Earth, in this photograph from the International Space Station as it orbited 259 miles above and about 500 miles north of Hawaii. Credit: NASA
Researchers have revolutionized atmospheric studies with JAGUAR-DAS, a new system that merges observational data with numerical models to explore the atmosphere up to the lower edges of space.
Spanning nearly two decades, this dataset could enhance climate models and improve weather forecasting, while opening doors for collaborative research between atmospheric and space scientists, potentially altering how we understand the Earth-space interaction.
Groundbreaking Atmospheric Research
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a groundbreaking dataset that spans the entire atmosphere, opening the door to studies in regions that were previously difficult to explore. Using an innovative data-assimilation system called JAGUAR-DAS, which integrates numerical modeling with observational data, the team compiled nearly 20 years of atmospheric data. This dataset covers multiple atmospheric layers, from ground level to the edge of space.
By analyzing how these layers interact vertically and globally, scientists hope to improve climate models and enhance seasonal weather forecasts. The data also provides opportunities for collaboration between atmospheric and space scientists, offering new insights into how space and our atmosphere interact to impact life on Earth.
Complaining about the weather — and blaming forecasters when predictions fall short — is a common pastime. However, predicting the weather is no simple task. The atmosphere is a complex, interconnected system with multiple layers, and climate change is making it even harder to predict both long-term trends and sudden, extreme weather events.
This infographic shows the multiple layers of our atmosphere, extending from the ground up into space, and how the new dataset compares in coverage to those currently available. Credit: D.Koshin, K. Sato, S. Watanabe and K. Miyazaki, 2025/ Progress in Earth and Planetary Science (PEPS)
Launch of JAWARA: A New Atmospheric Dataset
To help overcome these increasing challenges, researchers have created a dataset of the entire atmosphere. Ranging from September 2004 to December 2023, it spans multiple levels of the atmosphere from ground level up to the lower edge of space, about 110 kilometers above Earth’s surface. The region between about 50 km to 110 km (though exact ranges vary) is particularly of interest, as it is so notoriously difficult to study that it had previously been dubbed the “ignorosphere.”
This region is too low for satellites and too high for weather balloons to observe, resulting in a shortage of data and consequently research. However, it is a fascinating area, characterized by vast global atmospheric tides and small-scale gravity waves that affect wind and temperature. It also plays an important role in the intensity of the impact of space weather events.
[embedded content]Our weather is influenced by many factors, at ground level (such as mountains and human activity), interactions in our atmosphere, and space (such as auroras and magnetic fields). Credit: Kaoru Sato
Insights and Opportunities from the New Dataset
“The JAWARA (JAGUAR-DAS Whole neutral Atmosphere Reanalysis) dataset is a strong research tool which, for the first time, makes it possible to quantitatively understand atmospheric general circulation and the hierarchal structure of waves and vorticies in the mesospheric layer (which is above the stratosphere and about 50-90 km above Earth’s surface) and lower thermospheric layer (about 90-110 km above Earth’s surface) of the atmosphere, including the ignorosphere,” explained Professor Kaoru Sato from the University of Tokyo.
“If we can better understand these layers, it would improve our ability to respond to climate change, extend the lead time of seasonal forecasts, and advance our understanding of space weather phenomena.”
Advancing Atmospheric and Space Science
The team developed its new JAGUAR-DAS high-speed data assimilation system as part of an international project led by Sato. The system integrates observational data into a numerical model which can then produce data on atmospheric conditions. The resulting dataset, named JAWARA, makes it possible to perform detailed analysis of the general circulation of the atmosphere and its hierarchical structure.
“Atmospheric general circulation models which range up to the lower edge of space have only been developed by a limited number of research institutions around the world, including our own,” said Sato. “Recent studies indicate that extreme stratospheric phenomena can start at least in the upper mesosphere. Therefore, quantitative elucidation of phenomena in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere is extremely important for weather forecasting.”
The dataset is now openly available, and the team intends to use it to study the large-scale circulation and the hierarchical structure in the atmosphere, as well as vertical and interhemispheric (i.e., between the Northern and Southern hemisphere) couplings. They also hope to work in collaboration with space scientists to study the interactions between the atmosphere and space, particularly the mesosphere (where the highest clouds form) and ionosphere (located within the thermosphere and about 60-300 km above Earth’s surface, where many satellites are based).
Reference: “The JAGUAR-DAS whole neutral atmosphere reanalysis: JAWARA” by Dai Koshin, Kaoru Sato, Shingo Watanabe and Kazuyuki Miyazaki, 10 January 2025, Progress in Earth and Planetary Science.DOI: 10.1186/s40645-024-00674-3

How Scientists Are Using Atomic Precision to Supercharge Chemistry

Science and Health

A research group led by Prof. Wenjie Shen and Prof. Yong Li from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has achieved atomic precision in tuning bimetallic catalyst active sites. By forming Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimers on α-Fe nanoparticles via H2 reduction, they enhanced hydrogenation selectivity and activity, achieving a 35-fold increase in the rate for crotonaldehyde hydrogenation. This study addresses the activity-selectivity trade-off in catalytic reactions and was published in Chem. Credit: DICP
Precise nanoscale engineering of bimetallic catalysts allows scientists to boost hydrogenation performance by fine-tuning electronic structures.
Bimetallic particles, made from a combination of a noble metal and a base metal, have unique catalytic properties that make them highly effective for selective heterogeneous hydrogenation reactions. These properties arise from their distinctive geometric and electronic structures. For hydrogenation to be both effective and selective, it requires specific interactions at the molecular level, where the active atoms on the catalyst precisely target the functional group in the substrate for transformation.
Nanoscale Engineering and Electronic Structure Tuning
Scaling these particles down to nanoscale atomic clusters or single-atom alloys further enhances their catalytic performance. This reduction in size increases surface dispersion and optimizes the use of noble metal atoms. Additionally, these nanoscale changes alter the electronic structure of the active sites, which can significantly influence the activity and selectivity of the reaction. By carefully adjusting the bonding between noble metal single atoms and the base metal host, researchers can create flexible environments that fine-tune the electronic properties needed to activate specific functional groups. Despite these advances, achieving atomically precise fabrication of such active sites remains a significant challenge.
Breakthrough Study on Atomic Site Regulation
In a study published in Chem, a team led by Prof. Wenjie Shen and Prof. Yong Li from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), collaborating with Prof. Weixue Li from the University of Science and Technology of China of CAS and Prof. Yuemin Wang from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany, successfully regulated the atomic structure of active sites for hydrogenation reaction.
Researchers first developed a method to densely populate and precisely position isolated Pt atoms in the form of Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimer on α-Fe nanoparticles. The Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimer was achieved by H2-reduction of a Pt-Fe2O3 particle pair, where a 3.3 nm Pt particle sits on a 9.8 nm Fe2O3 particle. During the H2 reduction, iron oxides were reduced to iron, facilitating the dispersion of Pt particles into Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimers on the surface of iron particles via surface alloying.
Enhanced Hydrogenation and Pathway Discovery
In addition, researchers uncovered the formation pathway and coordination environment of the Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimer. In the gas-phase hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde, the Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimer showed a preference for hydrogenated the C=O bond to produce crotyl alcohol rather than the conjugated C=C bond. The intrinsic hydrogenating rate increased by 35 times, effectively resolving the activity-selectivity trade-off in hydrogenation reactions.
Molecular-Level Insights into Catalytic Function
Furthermore, researchers revealed a site-bond recognition pattern of the Pt-Fe-Pt heterotrimer. The left-end Pt atom anchored the C=C bond, while the central Fe atom activated the C=O bond, which was further hydrogenated by H atoms adsorbed on the right-end Pt atom.
“Our study quantifies the surface catalytic reaction at the molecular level and offers a strategy for tailoring active sites on bimetallic catalysts with atomic precision,” said Prof. Shen.
Reference: “Fine-tuned coordination environment of Pt-Fe-Pt active site for selective heterogeneous hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde” by Di Zhou, Junjun Wang, Minzhen Jian, Yong Li, Zheng Jiang, Shuang Liu, Yan Zhou, Jiake Wei, Christof Wöll, Wei-Xue Li, Yuemin Wang and Wenjie Shen, 3 January 2025, Chem.DOI: 10.1016/j.chempr.2024.11.018

Mabrian: Where is the World Traveling in 2025?

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Southeast Asia, Southern Asia, and key destinations in Oceania, Africa, and the Americas are set to dominate international travel demand in the first half of 2025, according to the latest analysis by Mabrian, the global travel intelligence platform.European cities like Madrid, Lisbon, and Rome are also expected to experience notable growth, signaling a dynamic year for global tourism.
The analysis, Mabrian’s Share of Searches Index, tracks inspirational travel demand by analyzing global flight search behavior, offering insights into market interest independent of confirmed bookings.
Mabrian’s analysis focused on international demand for travel to the top 20 airports in each region for the January–June 2025 period, covering 72.5 percent of global travel interest.
Asia’s tourism surge
Bangkok, Thailand.
Asian destinations are leading the growth in international travel interest. Southeast Asia, with hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, Bali, and Hanoi, captures 13.5 percent of global demand, while Eastern Asia (Japan, South Korea, China) accounts for 12.6 percent. Southern Asia, home to India, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, represents 6.5 percent of global searches.
“Asian regions show a powerful search trend for the first half of the year, stronger than other regions globally, indicating robust arrivals in the coming months,” says Carlos Cendra, Partner and Director of Marketing and Communications at Mabrian.
Specific destinations seeing significant surges include Bangkok, Tokyo, and Bali, with Sri Lanka’s Colombo and the Maldives also standing out.
Oceania’s comeback
Oceania, particularly Australia and New Zealand, marks a major post-pandemic recovery, with international demand rising to over 3 percent of global interest. Key cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland are seeing substantial growth.
“The Share of Searches Index highlights a positive outlook for Oceania as the region builds on its recovery momentum,” notes Cendra.
The Americas and Africa
Miami, Florida.
North America accounts for 5.6 percent of global demand, with Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando showing strong interest. Latin America and the Caribbean follow, powered by hotspots like Cancun, Punta Cana, and Rio de Janeiro.
Sub-Saharan Africa is also on the rise, driven by South Africa’s Cape Town and Johannesburg, as well as iconic island destinations like Mauritius, Seychelles, and Cape Verde.
Europe: Steady demand
Although not among the fastest-growing regions, Europe remains a key player, accounting for 17.2 percent of global demand. Urban hubs like Madrid, Lisbon, and Rome — bolstered by events like Rome’s Jubilee Year — are expected to attract increasing arrivals.

Step-by-Step Guide On Building Your Personal Training Business

Business News

Starting a personal training business is rewarding for fitness enthusiasts eager to help others achieve their health goals while pursuing their passion.
However, turning your aspirations into a thriving business takes careful planning, the right qualifications, and strategic decision-making. This guide provides a step-by-step plan to build your personal training business, from acquiring essential qualifications to scaling your operations for long-term success.
Acquiring the Right Qualifications
The foundation of your career as a personal trainer starts with acquiring the correct qualifications. Begin with a Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Personal Training, which is widely recognised in the UK and essential for entering the industry. Providers like Create PT offer flexible, online courses that you can complete at your own pace—perfect for those balancing studies with their current jobs. Gaining this certification ensures you have the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively train clients, paving the way for your career transition.
Transitioning Into Personal Training Jobs
Once you’ve earned your qualifications, it’s time to make the leap into your new career. Apply for positions at reputable gym chains like PureGym, Virgin Active, and Anytime Fitness. Many of these offer both employed and self-employed roles, allowing you to choose a model that aligns with your lifestyle and financial commitments.
Working in a gym provides access to high-quality equipment, a professional environment, and a built-in client base. This footfall can be instrumental in attracting your first clients and gaining valuable experience in the field.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and Extended Learning
The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires ongoing learning. Investing in CPD courses expands your expertise into niche areas such as pre- and postnatal fitness, sports rehabilitation, or nutrition. These additional skills enhance your ability to serve diverse clients and help differentiate your services in a competitive market.
Building Your Client Base
Building a loyal client base takes time and effort. Start by offering free taster sessions or introductory discounts to attract potential clients. Once you’ve established rapport, focus on delivering exceptional service to encourage word-of-mouth referrals.
Networking within your gym and local fitness community can also lead to new opportunities. Attend fitness events, collaborate with other trainers, and engage with local businesses to expand your reach. Building trust and relationships is key to creating a sustainable client base.
Establishing Your Online Presence
An online presence is crucial in today’s digital world. Create social media accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to showcase client transformations, workout tips, and motivational content. Use free tools to integrate a booking system or direct messaging for easy client communication.
Consider creating a website through platforms like Squarespace or Wix as your business grows. A professional website with clear service offerings and client testimonials will give you the essentials to get up and running. Combining online efforts with in-person referrals will ensure steady business growth.
Creating Your Own Training Space
You might consider building your own training space as your client base grows. Many personal trainers start by converting a garage or investing in a home gym setup. While this route can save on gym fees and allow you to set your rates, it also requires significant investment in equipment, insurance, and facility maintenance. Ensure you weigh the costs against the potential benefits before making this transition. A private space can also appeal to clients seeking one-on-one training in a more personalised setting, allowing you to increase your rates. 
Investing in Marketing
Marketing is essential to stand out in a crowded fitness industry. Start with low-cost strategies like social media ads and gradually invest in more sophisticated methods like search engine optimisation (SEO). SEO ensures your website ranks well for local searches such as “personal trainers near me.” Email marketing and client testimonials can also boost credibility and visibility. 
Remember, consistent branding and engagement across all platforms are vital for building trust with your audience. Consider contacting a local digital marketing agency to assist you with your marketing efforts.
Exploring Advanced Business Models
As your business grows, you may reach a limit on the number of clients you can manage independently. At this point, consider scaling your business by franchising or hiring additional trainers.

Franchising: This involves opening additional gym locations or licensing your brand to other trainers, creating multiple income streams.
Upscaling: Hire self-employed trainers or staff to take on more clients, allowing you to focus on business development. While this requires significant upfront investment, it can lead to exponential growth and reduced workload.

Both options demand careful planning, financial management, and a strong brand identity to succeed.
Conclusion
Building a personal training business requires dedication, strategic planning, and continuous learning. From earning the right qualifications to scaling your operations, each step contributes to your growth as a fitness entrepreneur. Focus on building strong client relationships, leveraging online tools, and exploring opportunities for expansion to create a thriving business. You can transform your dream of helping others into a successful and fulfilling career with passion and perseverance.

Sarajevo Canton Reports Record Number of Foreign Tourists

Travel

In 2024, Sarajevo Canton recorded the best results in terms of arrivals, overnight stays and length of stay of foreign tourists from all previous measurements of statistical data of the Sarajevo Canton Tourist Board.“Throughout the year, according to monthly statistical reports, we recorded an increase in arrivals, overnight stays, as well as an increase in the length of stay of foreign tourists in Sarajevo Canton,” the Tourist Board announced.
The annual statistical report for 2024, compared to the results from 2023, shows an increased number of guests by 22.3% and an increase in the number of overnight stays by 18.3%. During 2024, we also recorded an increase in the length of stay of foreign tourists. Namely, the average stay of foreign tourists in Sarajevo Canton in 2024 was 2.3 days, while the average stay of foreign tourists a year earlier was 2.2 days.
The largest number of tourists who visited Sarajevo Canton in 2024, according to statistics from the Sarajevo Canton Tourist Board, were from Croatia, Turkey, Serbia, Germany, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Great Britain, Slovenia, China and the USA.

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“We are extremely satisfied with the results of 2024, which are the foundation for a better and more successful 2025. The challenge before us is to prove that Sarajevo is the best destination to visit in 2025.” – said Haris Fazlagić, President of the Sarajevo Canton Tourist Board.

Companies Can Help The UK’s Prison Crisis And Boost Their Own Business

Business News

Prisons are supposed to be both a punishment and a deterrent. We hope that by locking a person up we can encourage them not to offend again. But this clearly isn’t working.
Studies show that almost 50% of people released from prison reoffend within the first year. If we want to stop reoffending, and reduce prison populations, not to mention reducing the impact on victims and society as a whole, this cycle of offend, prison, reoffend needs to stop.
And business leaders can make a real difference.
The power of employment: real-life success stories
The way we think about hiring can change lives and communities while benefiting companies. Employment is a cornerstone of reducing reoffending. Research shows that ex-offenders with stable jobs are up to 9% less likely to return to crime.
There’s a clear win-win potential here: ex-offenders gain dignity, purpose, and income, while businesses benefit from the unique resilience and dedication they often bring. Some businesses are already tapping into this potential.
Several companies have realised that hiring ex-offenders isn’t just a matter of doing good; it’s also good business. UK-based retailer and service provider Timpson has a history of employing ex-offenders; around 10% of Timpson’s workforce are former prisoners. The company reports that many ex-offenders—grateful for the opportunity—demonstrate loyalty and a strong work ethic. Timpson’s hiring model has been successful enough to inspire other businesses to consider similar policies.
Another powerful example is XO Bikes, a social enterprise that trains ex-offenders in bike mechanics. By refurbishing and selling bicycles, participants gain hands-on skills in a field facing labour shortages. This model provides a dual benefit: prisoners acquire practical job skills and employers in sectors like construction and engineering find potential workers who have received certified, industry-relevant training.
Greggs bakery chain is another notable example, having joined the “Ban the Box” campaign, which encourages companies to remove questions about criminal records from job applications. By focusing on applicants’ potential rather than past mistakes, Greggs has expanded its talent pool and given second chances to individuals eager to contribute to society. For Greggs, this has translated to lower turnover rates, increased loyalty, and a richer, more diverse company culture.
Labour shortages and economic imperatives
The UK’s labour market is facing its own challenges, with nearly a million job vacancies waiting to be filled. Many sectors—construction, hospitality, healthcare, and engineering to name a few—are in desperate need of workers. Programs that focus on upskilling ex-offenders could address both the skills gap and reoffending rate. With the UK’s rising labour needs, supporting ex-offenders in transitioning into employment should be a national priority. For businesses, engaging with this talent pool can not only meet staffing demands but also cut training costs. Ex-offenders who receive vocational training while incarcerated or shortly after release bring ready-to-use skills, often making them easier to onboard and faster to upskill.
Neuroplasticity and rehabilitation: a new approach
Our ability to rethink rehabilitation extends beyond job training. Understanding and leveraging neuroplasticity, our brain’s ability to form and reorganise connections, is essential. The brain is capable of “rewiring” itself through new experiences, thoughts, and actions. For ex-offenders, this means that developing new skills, self-beliefs, and habits can fundamentally alter their outlook and behaviours, making them less likely to reoffend.
Neuroplasticity-based programs, which include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, encourage ex-offenders to break old thought patterns and build healthier ones. XO Bikes, for instance, incorporates such approaches alongside job training, recognising that skills alone are not enough. By fostering a growth mindset, businesses and training programs can help ex-offenders reshape their thinking, encouraging them to view themselves as capable and employable. Rehabilitation thus becomes a deeper transformation, aligning with business goals and community safety.
Creating a broader impact
The benefits of employing ex-offenders reach far beyond individual businesses. Studies suggest that people with stable employment are less likely to reoffend. By keeping people out of prison, we reduce the chances of their children becoming part of the criminal justice system. Data shows that children of incarcerated parents are five to six times more likely to end up in prison themselves. By employing an ex-offender, businesses aren’t just hiring a worker; they’re potentially transforming the trajectory of entire families and communities.
A call for change
This issue won’t resolve itself. As communities, businesses, and individuals, we must be ready to rethink our approach. Rehabilitation, employment, and community support are not just essential, they are transformative. Change begins within our communities, but true impact requires a shift in mindset toward compassion, rehabilitation, and shared responsibility.
Real rehabilitation goes beyond job skills; it involves fostering a renewed sense of self-worth and purpose in ex-offenders, and a community that believes in second chances. With collective support and encouragement, ex-offenders have the opportunity to break free from old patterns, rebuild their lives, and replace limiting beliefs with hopeful visions for a brighter future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sid Madge is the founder of Meee and the creator of the Counting on Confidence programme, designed to inspire the belief that education and learning are essential for a more fulfilling and positive life.
This innovative programme recognises the untapped potential within prison populations, where many individuals demonstrate remarkable creativity, high aptitude, and a strong growth mindset. Counting on Confidence meets prisoners where they are, offering personalised learning paths that help them build foundational qualifications like literacy and numeracy.
By the end of December 2024, Meee will have engaged with over 250 prisoners and 50 staff across three UK prisons. Of these participants, 95% have rated the programme positively, and 86.7% report feeling more optimistic about their future. This approach not only equips individuals with essential skills but also nurtures their inherent talents and resilience, fostering a hopeful path forward.
Sid is also the author of the Meee in a Minute series, offering 60 simple, actionable ways to transform your life, work, or family life in just 60 seconds. Additionally, the My Meee app was developed to support both staff in their roles and prisoners upon release. It carries the Minute Philosophy of improving personal, work, and family life, providing users with tools and insights for lasting positive change.
Sid Madge is founder of Meee, and Author of the ‘Meee In A Minute’ books.