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.
NOT YOUR everyday selfie, this plucky diver poses with some of the scariest predators in the ocean .
A diver explores the crystal clear waters of the Silfra canyon in southern Iceland, which is the only place on Earth where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates .
HUDDLING under a leaf, a pair of adorable Javan scops owls take shelter from the rain .
This starling and prairie dog will not back down an inch as they have a fearsome stand-off over who gets to eat a nut .
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FROM the rolling hills of the Scottish highlands to looming chalk cliffs in Sussex, these stunning photographs capture the spectacular beauty of Great Britain .
THESE kingfishers prove no rod is needed as they go fishing for their dinner .
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A doting seal smiles at her sweet little pup as she tickles its tummy on the beach .
A photographer has captured stunning photographs of the Milky Way above picturesque landscapes in the UK and Italy .
From a floating jelly fish to a relaxed seal, Britain’s unappreciated beach life is captured above and below the water .