Midweek motivation

Here's our weekly roundup of some inspiring and thought-provoking stories from around the world.

Need a little help getting over hump day? These stories might do the trick….

• A new AI-based app is helping reduce waiting lists in the UK for physiotherapy treatment for back pain. The app is the first of its kind to be certified by the Care Quality Commission, which regulates health and social care in the UK.

• NASA has launched a new satellite with radar equipment that will help to track changes in Earth’s forests and wetland ecosystems, monitor deformation and motion of the planet’s frozen surfaces, and detect the movement of Earth’s crust.

• Authorities in Amsterdam are building a series of tiny staircases to help cats rescue themselves should they fall into one of the city’s many canals.

• Have you ever given yourself a sulking window to get over a disappointment or setback?

• Young leaders have been having their say on the future at the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers Annual Summit.

• Staff at Colchester Zoo in the UK were surprised to find a wild otter cub among the zoo’s flamingos last month.