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.
RESTING his weary head on his flipper, this little seal pup takes a much needed nap after an afternoon of strenuous yoga .
AN ADORABLE one-eyed kitten has been dubbed the 'pirate cat' because of his pirate-like facial expressions .
NATURE PAPARAZZIS prove you don't have to be Justin Bieber or Cheryl Cole to attract a pack of photographers .
THIS incredible shimmer of silver fish mirrors the image of that of an underwater tornado .
WELCOME to what could be the world's tallest TOTALLY wooden construction .
A BROWN bear wades through waters in Alaska and waits for his lunch .
A group of shelter dogs showcase their loveable personalities in a series of passport-style photographs - in the hope of finding their forever homes .
A DETERMINED great blue heron holds on tightly to its prey as the furry gopher attempts to wriggle free .
SNUGGLING up against their teddy bears, these baby sloths could easily be mistaken for one of the cuddly toys .
These photographs of extreme weather capture storms furiously rolling across the sky above America .
