No newspaper delivery drones! French firm admits prank

Nidhi Subbaraman , NBC News ? ? ? 3 hrs.

Parrot, a French company that makes small quadricopter drones that you can control with a smartphone app, seemed ready to put newspaper delivery boys out of business.

Parrot had teamed up with a local postal service and planned to test 20 delivery drones in the French town of Auvergne, La Poste Group wrote in a blog post.

On the one hand, it seems like an enchanting idea: Pre-programmed drones operated by postal workers from afar doing quick drop-offs without needing to weave through traffic. It was so enchanting in fact, that it made its way past a usually skeptical April Fools' day media, appearing as apparently normal news in VentureBeat, Business Insider and the International Business Times, among others. Wisely, The Atlantic at least allowed for the possibility of a prank.

When we inquired, we received a quick, clear note from a Parrot spokesperson: "The post is an April Fools' joke." Alas, the paperboy drones are no more real than the fabled Tacocopter.

Which makes sense. The tiny drones don't seem to have room to carry more than just one newspaper. How efficient could that possibly be, using a flying lawn mower to deliver one newspaper at a time?

Nidhi Subbaraman writes about technology and science and drones, drones, drones. Follow her on Twitter and Google+.

Source: http://feeds.nbcnews.com/c/35002/f/653387/s/2a38d8aa/l/0L0Snbcnews0N0Ctechnology0Ctechnolog0Cno0Enewspaper0Edelivery0Edrones0Efrench0Efirm0Eadmits0Eprank0E1C9164772/story01.htm

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Amazon Kindle Fire HD 8.9 LTE hits AT&T retail on April 5th with a $249 contract option

Have you eyed the LTE version of Amazon's Kindle Fire HD 8.9, yet remained skittish about buying such a relatively expensive tablet sight-unseen? AT&T is now willing to accommodate you: stop by an AT&T retail store from April 5th onward and you can pick up a 32GB model in person. The carrier is also offering an alternative purchase model. The $399 contract-free purchase is still available for those who want their freedom, but the initial price can drop to $249 for anyone willing to sign a two-year contract for a data plan. While either is still a lot of money to throw at Amazon's ecosystem, it's good to know that we can at least minimize the qualms surrounding an impulse purchase.

Filed under: Tablets, Amazon, AT&T

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Source: AT&T

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/04/01/amazon-kindle-fire-hd-8-9-lte-hits-atandt-retail-on-april-5th/

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Louisville's Ware breaks leg in game, has surgery

Louisville's Wayne Blackshear (20) and Chane Behanan (21) react to Kevin Ware's injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final in the NCAA college basketball tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Louisville's Wayne Blackshear (20) and Chane Behanan (21) react to Kevin Ware's injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final in the NCAA college basketball tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Louisville's Chane Behanan, foreground, and Wayne Blackshear (20) react to guard Kevin Ware's injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final against Duke in the NCAA college basketball tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Louisville's Peyton Siva, left, Chane Behanan, center, and Wayne Blackshear (20) react to LKevin Ware's injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final in the NCAA college basketball tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Trainers check on Louisville guard Kevin Ware (5) after an injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final against Duke in the NCAA college basketball tournament, Sunday, March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Louisville guard Kevin Ware is taken off of the court on a stretcher after his injury during the first half of the Midwest Regional final against Duke in the NCAA college basketball tournament Sunday March 31, 2013, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) ? A gruesome injury that left Louisville guard Kevin Ware with a broken leg plunged Lucas Oil Stadium into horrified silence, with coach Rick Pitino wiping away tears and shocked teammates openly weeping during Sunday's Midwest Regional final.

Ware's right leg bent in such an awkward and frightening angle that CBS stopped showing replays shortly after the fall in the NCAA tournament matchup against Duke.

He was taken into surgery at Methodist Hospital after the game to repair the fracture. School officials said the leg, broken in two places, was reset and a rod inserted into his right tibia. Ware is expected to stay in Indianapolis until at least Tuesday.

Even as he was being treated on the court, Ware was encouraging his teammates, Pitino said.

"The bone's 6 inches out of his leg and all he's yelling is, 'Win the game, win the game,'" Pitino said. "I've not seen that in my life. ... Pretty special young man."

Viewers who watched the injury on TV reacted on social networks and (hash)KevinWare shot to one of the top worldwide trending topics on Twitter. Video of the injury was posted on YouTube ? CBS initially replayed it twice before changing course.

The brutal mishap occurred after Ware jumped to contest a 3-pointer by Tyler Thornton. Ware's leg buckled when he landed, bending almost at a right angle. Nearly six seconds ran off the clock before the officials, at Pitino's urging, stopped the game with 6:33 left in the first half.

Louisville star Russ Smith heard the break and Chane Behanan, Ware's closest friend, couldn't believe what was happening.

"The bone was literally out. I saw white, it was literally out," said Behanan, who collapsed to his hands and feet at the sight.

The two spoke at halftime.

"He said 'Don't worry about me, I'm good, I'll have my surgery tonight,'" Behanan said. "Go win it for me."

Two doctors speculated Ware might have had stress fractures that predisposed him to such a break. Pitino said it was the same injury former Louisville running back Michael Bush had in football. Bush, now with the Chicago Bears, has recovered to have a productive NFL career.

It turned out Bush was watching the game on TV. "I just cried," he wrote on Twitter. "I feel so bad. Flashback of myself. Anyone if he needs anything please let me know."

The injury happened right in front of Pitino and the Louisville bench, and several Cardinals were overcome with emotion.

Louisville forward Wayne Blackshear fell to the floor, crying, and Behanan looked as if he was going to be sick on the court, kneeling on his hands and feet. Peyton Siva sat a few feet away, a hand covering his mouth.

"I dropped to go the ground. I've never seen anything like that," Behanan said. "I don't remember the last time I cried."

Luke Hancock patted Ware's chest as doctors worked on the sophomore and Russ Smith ? who is from New York City like Ware ? walked away, pulling his jersey over his eyes.

Someone finally pulled Behanan to his feet, but he doubled over and needed a few seconds to gather himself. As Ware was being loaded onto a stretcher, the Cardinals gathered at midcourt until Pitino called them over, saying that Ware wanted to talk to them before he left.

In the immediate aftermath, condolences poured in on social media. Former Washington Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann, who famously sustained a broken leg on "Monday Night Football" in a game against the New York Giants, tweeted that "Watching Duke/ Louisville my heart goes out to Kevin Ware."

Dr. Reed Estes, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and team physician for the UAB football team, said basketball players are prone to stress fractures in the tibia, the larger of the two leg bones, and that can weaken them.

"If these are not detected they can result in a full fracture, particularly if the landing mechanics are just right" after a jump, Estes said. Surgery to stabilize the bones is usually successful, and Ware should be fine to play next season, he said.

Dr. Frederick Azar, head of the Campbell Clinic in Memphis, Tenn., and a spokesman for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, said Ware "jumped pretty far horizontally and vertically, and he landed with a twist," which puts so much torsion and stress on the bones they could have just snapped. He agreed with Estes' assessment that a stress fracture could have made Ware more prone to such an injury.

Louisville, the top overall seed in the tourney, went more than 3 minutes without scoring after the accident but regained its composure to take a 35-32 halftime lead and went on to an 85-63 victory.

"We won this for him," Pitino said. "We were all choked up with emotion for him. We'll get him back to normal. We've got great doctors, great trainers. We talked about it every timeout, 'Get Kevin home.'"

Ware, a 6-foot-2 sophomore from the Bronx who played his high school basketball in the Atlanta area, was instrumental in Louisville's victory over Oregon in the regional semifinals. He scored 11 points on 5-for-7 shooting in 25 minutes off the bench.

Behanan switched into Ware's No. 5 jersey near the end of the game.

Afterward, he kept on it and the Cardinal players led the heavily partisan Louisville crowd in chants of "Kev-in, Kev-in."

___

AP Chief Medical Writer Marilynn Marchione contributed to this report.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/3d281c11a96b4ad082fe88aa0db04305/Article_2013-03-31-NCAA-Louisville-Ware%20Injury/id-162485593c21447fa53a1155fda554e4

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HTC Droid DNA retired?

Has the HTC Droid DNA been given its gold watch and sent packing? Verizon CS says yes, and it's no longer listed for sale

A reader sent in a pretty interesting screenshot, accompanied by some equally interesting information about the HTC Droid DNA. According to Verizon customer service, the DNA is now officially retired. The screenshot of chat with a CS (you can find it after the break) actually uses the word retired, and subsequent inquiries led to a statement from Verizon saying "HTC halted production in efforts to push out an upcoming project on the horizon".

Now normally, we would place little to no faith in the words of an online chat with customer care from any provider. We're not judging, they have a difficult job and get way more harassment than anyone deserves. But after hearing about this, we went looking on Verizon's website, and found that the DNA is nowhere to be seen. You can't buy one from Big Red. Verizon loves to take our money, so there must be a reason they don't want to sell us a Droid DNA.

Now consider the on and off rumors about the HTC One coming to Verizon. We're pretty sure that you'll never be able to buy an "HTC One" for use on Verizon. But ask us if you'll be able to buy a premium HTC device with Sense 5, the new camera, Boomsound, a kick-ass display, and all the other goodies that come with the HTC One and our answer would be different. Don't let semantics like official names fool you. We're pretty confident that something very close to the HTC One is "on the horizon" for Verizon Wireless.

We never pretend that we know what goes on inside the minds of carrier corporate executives. We certainly question many of their decisions, but we're not at the meetings and don't have access to the data they use when they decide things like which phones to sell, and when to stop selling them. And of course, all this could be wrong and the DNA is simply out of stock for a while. We're just going to keep watching this, and when it all works out, we'll let you know.

Thanks, Robert!

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Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/androidcentral/~3/Ejx-FCTmuy0/story01.htm

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Tiger Sharks Relationships | Internet dating Tips for Men

Whenever we step into the world of online relationship it can appear to be we?ve slipped into another universe completely, where we no more communicate with people but with mystery creatures who solely possess a virtual existence.

However we?re not. We are talking to real individuals and social manners as well as etiquette, including from the dating kind, don?t (or at least shouldn?t) differ therefore greatly from the real-world. Except that we don?t have to worry (yet) about who is going to foot the bill. It?s just two people possessing a chat, getting to know one another and seeing exactly where things will go. That?s not so scary right now, could it be?

As much as I hate to say it according to contemporary heterosexual relationship rules men, generally, should still take the lead. It?s just the way matters roll. Therefore it could be the case that a few online dating tips for men go a long way, and if you feel just like you need some then you?ve come to the right place!

1) Show initiative
Such as real life if you like someone, show this. Not with over the top actions and unwarranted declarations associated with love but through giving attention, showing interest and making that extra special effort. Do not leave it an age to reply to messages and do not be dismissive within your response. Everybody knows that ?I?ve been busy at work? actually means ?I just could not become bothered?.

2) Time it right
Once you?ve moved beyond the ?how?s it going? ? stage as well as decided you?d love to take things a step further make your move and ask to meet upward. Do it early enough; do not leave it too long or interest subsides and the ship will sail. Remember online dating is recommended being a platform right into a real partnership, not as an alternative to this.

3) Allow it to be personal
Not all people are identical. Take the time to get acquainted with your target and find out who they really are. Do not just lump someone right into a category according to their sexual intercourse, age, origin, occupation and so forth etc . It bugs, and it will get you no place.

4) This simple
If you are \ planning your day keep it straightforward and asking someone you?ve not really met to go on the mini-break to Paris is not going to earn any points. A drink is okay, dinner probably. And even an easy walk over the river. Honestly, that?s all it requires.

5) Help your choice, as well as stay with it
Shop around online go ahead and, however be subtle regarding it. Ice-breaker kind messages are fine to begin with but once you?ve decided who to choose start drawing attention to your approach appropriately (see ?keep this personal? over! ). Dating in the first stages doesn?t have to be special but it should be thoughtful.

These types of online dating tips for men are designed to help get a web based relationship on the right track. But most importantly be real, be respectful and become yourself; that?s always the absolute right place to start.

Resulten Master

Author @ Datinghut. com

I have already been writing regarding dating hut for a few years right now. Helping give advice and unbiased online dating sites reviews

therefore people can flourish in online dating!

Dating Hut is an impartial, impartial guide providing you the best online dating sites reviews. Discover all the best UK online dating sites.

Source: http://tigersharkswimclub.com/online-dating-tips-for-men/

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India's top court to deliver Novartis judgment

FILE ? In this Jan. 29, 2007 file photo, Indian police officers block demonstrators protesting against Swiss drugmaker Novartis AG's case against the Indian government on drug patents in New Delhi, India. India's Supreme Court is to rule Monday, April 1, 2013, whether to deny a patent to Novartis AG for its cancer treatment in a landmark case that would allow Indian companies to continue producing cheaper versions of many lifesaving medicines. (AP Photo/Saurabh Das, File)

FILE ? In this Jan. 29, 2007 file photo, Indian police officers block demonstrators protesting against Swiss drugmaker Novartis AG's case against the Indian government on drug patents in New Delhi, India. India's Supreme Court is to rule Monday, April 1, 2013, whether to deny a patent to Novartis AG for its cancer treatment in a landmark case that would allow Indian companies to continue producing cheaper versions of many lifesaving medicines. (AP Photo/Saurabh Das, File)

FILE - In this Dec. 21, 2012 file photo, an Indian activist from a health group holds a placard while participating in a protest against Swiss drugmaker Novartis AG outside their office in Mumbai, India. India's Supreme Court is to rule Monday, April 1, 2013, whether to deny a patent to Novartis AG for its cancer treatment in a landmark case that would allow Indian companies to continue producing cheaper versions of many lifesaving medicines. (AP Photo/Rajanish Kakade, File)

NEW DELHI (AP) ? India's Supreme Court is to rule Monday on a landmark patent case involving Swiss drugmaker Novartis AG that focuses on demands by major companies that their investments be protected, against Indian companies that say they should be allowed to continue producing cheaper generic versions of many lifesaving medicines.

A decision in the seven-year legal battle is keenly awaited by the two most interested parties? big pharma companies and health aid groups ? with both sides saying the outcome will set a precedent with far-reaching consequences for the future availability of the drugs.

"Across the world, people rely on India for supplies of affordable versions of expensive patented medicines," said Leena Menghaney of Doctors Without Borders. "This case will have fundamental consequences."

The case goes back to 2006 when Novartis' application for a fresh patent in India for its cancer drug imatinib mesylate was rejected by the Indian patent office.

The patent authority cited a legal provision in India's 2005 patent law aimed at preventing companies from getting fresh patents for making only minor changes to existing medicines ? a practice known as "evergreening."

The drugmaker has argued that its leukemia drug Gleevec, known in Europe and India as Glivec, was a newer, more easily absorbed version that qualified for a fresh patent.

The company filed an appeal, but India's patent appeals office turned it down in 2009 on the grounds the company was unable to show significant increase in efficacy of the drug.

Novartis then approached the Supreme Court in August 2009, which heard arguments seeking to challenge the interpretation and application of India's patent law in the case.

Gleevec, used in treating chronic myeloid leukemia and some other cancers, costs a patient about $2,600 a month. Its generic version was available in India for around $175 per month.

"The difference in price was huge. The generic version makes it affordable to so many more poor people, not just in India, but across the world," said Y.K. Sapru, of the Mumbai-based Cancer Patients Aid Association.

The case once again pits big pharmaceutical companies against health activists and aid groups with both sections arguing that the judgment would be an important milestone for the future of the pharmaceutical industry worldwide.

"The Novartis verdict is important because it will determine whether India gets to limit patents to genuine new drugs, or whether drug companies get to "evergreen" their patents until eternity, simply by re-patenting a slightly modified version of a known substance," said Ellen 't Hoen, a pharmaceutical law and policy consultant.

Western pharmaceutical companies have warned that a rejection of Novartis' application would discourage investment in research and innovation, and would hobble drugmakers' efforts to refine and improve their products.

The international drug majors have been pushing for stronger patent protection in India to regulate the country's $26 billion generic drug industry, which they say often flouts intellectual property rights.

In a statement sent to The Associated Press late last year, Novartis said patent protection was important to ensure effective protection for innovation.

"Knowing we can rely on patents in India benefits government, industry and patients because research-based organizations will know if investing in the development of better medicines for India is a viable long-term option," the company said.

Groups such as Doctors Without Borders say cheaply made Indian generics are a lifesaver for millions of patients in poor countries who cannot afford to pay Western prices to treat diseases such as cancer, malaria and HIV.

India, which has emerged as the world's pharmacy for the poor, has come under intense scrutiny from pharmaceutical giants who say India's 2005 Patent Act fails to guarantee the rights of investors who finance drug research and development.

The country's recent decision to allow a local manufacturer to produce a generic version of Bayer's patented cancer drug Nexavar, to make the drug available to the public at a reasonably affordable price, has also not gone down well with Western pharmaceutical companies.

Health and aid groups were clearly nervous before the top court rules on the Novartis case.

"Generic companies depend on the freedom to operate. If there are too many intellectual property-related challenges, then the companies very quickly withdraw from making that drug," said Menghaney.

The groups fear that a ruling in favor of Novartis would lead to a proliferation of patents ? some based on a minor tweaking of formulation and dosages ?on dozens of other generic medicines that Indian companies have been producing and supplying to needy nations at far lower costs than those charged by Western drug manufacturers.

And the fallout of the judgment will be felt across the world, says Menghaney. "It's not just about India."

"If generic competition on many crucial medicines ends, then prices for these medicines will increase, both in India and across the developing world. This would be devastating for millions who rely on India for affordable medicines."

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/3d281c11a96b4ad082fe88aa0db04305/Article_2013-03-31-India-Patent%20Battle/id-9299251350894549ac0c2d134052ebb5

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Easter treats | Bloomin' Escape DIY Home & Garden, Humour and ...

Here are the Easter treats that I prepared for our neighbourhood get together and for our family Easter Dinner.
Lemon cupcakes topped with rainbow icing and m&m eggs.
Fruit trifle: layered with white cake, blueberries, strawberries, peaches, whipped cream & dark chocolate shavings.

My?Easter table center piece is made from a silver serving tray from?value village for?$3.00, a spring design clock? which?I recieved free, from our neighbour who was cleaning?out her cupboards, as well as the white bunny, which just?happens to be a candle. I filled the tray with artificial white and purple daisy tops, purchased at the dollar store for $1.00.
We are going off the traditional Easter Grid for our Easter Sunday dinner?.ribs!? Wait for it!

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Source: http://bloominescape.wordpress.com/2013/03/30/easter-treats/

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