AN Irish woman has become the first adult in the world to receive a revolutionary REMOTE CONTROLLED 'ROBO SPINE', which uses magnets to combat the effects of scoliosis. Deirdre McDonnell, 34, from Drogheda, County Louth, can now stand tall for the first time after undergoing the pioneering MAGEC rod operation. The operation, also known as the magnetic expansion control system, involves the insertion of a magnetic rod that is screwed onto the spine and controlled externally in order to correct the curvature caused by scoliosis. Up until now, the £15K procedure has only been performed on children, as it was thought only to be effective for early onset scoliosis - typically diagnosed before the age of ten.
A photographer from the United Arab Emirates travelled to Pakistan where he captured the lives of local people in a series of expressive portraits .
Pouncing down on top of his twin brother, these two snow leopard cubs practice their kung-fu moves .
THE THOUGHT OF BECOMING shipwrecked on a remote destination would fill most holidaymakers with dread .
This tranquil setting stretches for miles as the sun sets behind the mountain .
Balanced on one leg, a frog assumes the crane kick martial arts stance made famous in the movie The Karate Kid .
A talented artist has created artwork with a KICKIN' twist by painting on his pregnant wife's bump .
A grand 56-bedroom hotel, once heaving with injured soldiers during the First World War, now lies completely abandoned .
Marina Afonina, now 51, from Northampton, met Ioan Budea in 2006 .
IN a galaxy far, far away, this collection of stunning interstellar formations will leave you STARSTRUCK .
VENTURING into the ocean with self-made spears and nets, the fishermen of Zanzibar put their lives on the line when they catch food for their families .
HOTSPOT MEDIA - FUNKY BUMP: FROM MIRROR bellies to rainbow bumps these pregnancy casts of stone and bronze could be the funkiest way to preserve your bump for posterity .
When couples talk about wanting a white wedding, few will be referring to getting hitched on a glacier sat on top of an active volcano .