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.
What lies beneath this building site? Britain's great hope of winning the pre-WW2 arms race against Nazi Germany .
As sunlight cascades through its vibrant stained glass windows, every inch of the Nasir-ol-Mulk Mosque bursts with colour .
SQUEEZING their furry faces through a hole in a tree, a trio of curious baby squirrels leave their nest for the first time to explore their surroundings .
This tranquil setting stretches for miles as the sun sets behind the mountain .
A DETERMINED great blue heron holds on tightly to its prey as the furry gopher attempts to wriggle free .
RAISING his flipper, this two day old seal pup gives a wave to the camera .
BASKING in smug satisfaction, a confident squirrel gives a wink to the camera .
PAWS for thought as you feast your eyes on this rare bear bathing session .
Playing, splashing and generally messing around, these polar bears show they certainly have a soft spot for the water, and not just each other .
LYING back in the snow, these two polar bears share a cuddle as they call time out on playtime .
Full of tired and busy commuters, these underground stations are rarely admired for their architecture or beauty .
A young otter wades through a lake with his eyes set on an older rival’s fish .