Good news for the middle of the week: a new sanitary pad detects biomarkers, and train travel across Europe is set to become easier

May 28, 2025

Hello dear Good News community,

France is planning a law to allow terminally ill people in hopeless medical situations to end their lives with medical assistance. You might wonder why we see this as good news, given how controversial assisted dying is. Precisely because it touches on deep human values like dignity, autonomy, and protection for the vulnerable, it's important for society to address it through clear laws. We believe those affected shouldn’t be left alone or forced abroad for help. We hope this encourages a more open, nuanced conversation about death – a taboo topic, though it’s undeniably part of life. // If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, contact a crisis line (Opens in a new window).

Enjoy reading, Bianca

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New sanitary pad detects biomarkers

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has developed a sanitary pad embedded with test strips that can detect biomarkers for conditions such as endometriosis and ovarian cancer. Users take a photo of the used pad with an app, which uses AI to analyze the image and identify potential health indicators. Source: INTERESTING ENGINEERING

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Train travel across Europe to become easier

Starting in autumn 2025, train travel across European borders will become easier as Deutsche Bahn joins a unified booking platform. Initially, tickets for routes to Austria and Switzerland will be available via bahn.de (Opens in a new window) and the DB app, with plans to expand the service to all of Europe at a later date. Source: THE LOCAL

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France moves to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill patients

France’s National Assembly has passed legislation that would allow terminally ill patients who are mentally competent and enduring constant suffering to seek medical assistance in dying. The bill still requires approval from the Senate. Source: EURO NEWS

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Batteries that capture CO2 while delivering power

Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed a lithium-carbon dioxide battery that stores energy while capturing carbon emissions. A new, low-cost catalyst extends battery life and improves efficiency - bringing this promising climate tech a step closer to commercial use. Source: FAST COMPANY

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Book: Why optimism is essential for progress

In his new book The Bright Side, astrophysicist-turned-journalist Sumit Paul-Choudhury argues that optimism isn’t naïve - it’s a practical tool for survival and change. Drawing from history, science, and personal loss, he shows how believing in better outcomes, even without evidence, can help individuals and societies move forward. Source: POSITIVE NEWS

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Protecting the Orinoco crocodile from extinction

The Orinoco crocodiles in Venezuela are critically endangered. But dedicated conservationists from the organization Grupo Español para el Crecimiento Verde are working to protect them. In breeding centers, young crocodiles are kept safe from poaching before being released into protected areas in the wild. Source: REUTERS

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Best regards,

Bianca Kriel & Selina Mahoche