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Guard in Lakers 1971 championship team
Flynn Robinson, 72, a flashy guard who was a member of the 1971-72 Lakers team that brought Los Angeles its first NBA title, died Thursday at Keck Hospital in Los Angeles from complications related to cancer. He had been battling multiple myeloma for about two years, according to the Lakers.
His scoring binges with the championship team earned him the nickname "Instant Offense" from longtime Lakers announcer Chick Hearn. Robinson led the Lakers reserves in scoring during the 1971-72 season, averaging 9.9 points in 15.7 minutes per game.
The team also set an NBA record that season by winning 33 consecutive games. His teammates included Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor and Gail Goodrich.
In 2008, Robinson told The Times that Jack Kent Cooke, who then owned the Lakers, hadn't shown the team enough appreciation. "We won 33 games in a row and he gave us a $5 pen set," said Robinson, a longtime resident of Los Angeles.
Flynn James Robinson was born April 28, 1941, in Elgin, Ill., into a large family.
At one time, he was the most prolific scorer in University of Wyoming basketball history, collecting 2,049 points and averaging 27 points per game during his senior season.
During an NBA career that lasted eight seasons, Robinson played with the Lakers for parts of two seasons. He was an All-Star with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1969-70 season while playing alongside rookie center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Robinson also played with the Cincinnati Royals, Chicago Bulls and Baltimore Bullets. He spent his final season in the now-defunct American Basketball Assn. with the San Diego Conquistadors.
Starred in 1970s 'S.W.A.T.' TV show
Actor Steve Forrest, 87, best known for starring as Lt. Dan "Hondo" Harrelson in the 1970s television series "S.W.A.T.," died Saturday at his Thousand Oaks home, his family announced.
As the tough-yet-tender leader of a Special Weapons and Tactics force in Southern California, Forrest was often shown reining in the firepower of his junior officers. His character's signature phrase was "let's roll!"
A spinoff of the series "The Rookies," "S.W.A.T." debuted on ABC in 1975 but was canceled the next year after being heavily criticized for its on-screen violence.
He was born William Forrest Andrews on Sept. 25, 1925, in Huntsville, Texas, the youngest of 13 children of a Baptist minister and his wife.
While Forrest served in the Army during World War II, his brother Dana Andrews was starring in 1944's "Laura" and other films. When Forrest visited his brother, he decided to stay in Hollywood, but only considered acting as a career after enrolling at UCLA, according to the All Movie Internet database.
In 1950, he received a bachelor's degree in theater arts from the school, where he met his future wife, Christine. The couple had three sons.
As a stagehand at the La Jolla Playhouse, Forrest caught the attention of actor Gregory Peck, who cast him in a production and got him a screen test. He was soon under contract at MGM. A small but flashy part in the 1952 film "The Bad and the Beautiful" led to other roles.
In a career that spanned 60 years, Forrest often played the villain. He appeared in many TV westerns, including "Gunsmoke" and "Bonanza," and in about 40 films. They include "The Longest Day" (1962), "North Dallas Forty" (1979) and "Mommie Dearest" (1981).


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As college students borrow more money to finance rising tuition costs, the education bubble may be the next to burst.
President Obama's proposal for a "Buffett rule" tax on the rich would directly affect only a small fraction of Americans.
Erickson Air-Crane announced the official pricing for its initial public offering at $8 per share.
The federal government is phasing out paper checks for all benefit programs.
$33 million in contracts with the 12 largest Oregon state agencies was given to businesses owned by minorities or women, or small businesses considered "emerging."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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Dabney Howard Smith Miscellaneous Papers
The Filson Historical Society Special Collections Louisville, Kentucky 40208 USA
Open to researchers.
[Identification of item], Dabney Howard Smith Miscellaneous Papers, 1847-1926, Special Collections, The Filson Historical Society, Louisville.
12 items
Confederate soldier, Ky. auditor of public accounts. Letters discussing Ky. and national politics, the Mexican War, Civil War prisoner exchanges, the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and some economic results of the Civil War in Ky. Also included are two certificates from Smith appointing his son as a clerk in the auditor's office. Card index in repository
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The 40,000 alumni within the Bryant network create one of the University's greatest resources. Bryant graduates are leaders in businesses and organizations around the world.
The new card offers Bryant University a rewards program that allows cardholders to earn unlimited reward points that are redeemable for items including gift cards, travel, merchandise and more.
Put your Bulldog pride on display with clothing for men, women, and children; gifts and accessories for your home, car, or office; and special holiday, tailgating, and graduation collections.
Keep up-to-date with fellow Bryant Alums:
The Bryant Fund is a lifeline for the University, providing scholarships, supporting faculty, and enhancing educational facilities. This funding is needed every year, and has immediate impact.


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January 3rd, 2015
Sick Novak Djokovic Withdraws From Abu Dhabi Final; Nadal Beats Wawrinka
Novak Djokovic had to withdraw from his Abu Dhabi final due to illness.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 9:45 am in Exhibitions | 21 Comments »
January 2nd, 2015
Murray Routs Rafa, Then Hurts Shoulder! Is Scheduled To Play Djokovic In Abu Dhabi Final
Andy Murray hurt his shoulder after crushing Rafael Nadal today in Abu Dhabi.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 2:53 pm in Exhibitions | 148 Comments »
January 1st, 2015
Murray Meets Nadal Friday At The Mubudala Abu Dhabi Exo
Andy Murray and Rafael Nadal will play Friday at the Abu Dhabi exo.
Posted by Staff @ 3:02 pm in Exhibitions | 45 Comments »
December 27th, 2013
Rafael Nadal: I Won't Be Hiring Any Former Greats, I'm Sticking With My Team
Rafael Nadal is not following the recent trend of hiring former champions.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 10:07 am in Exhibitions | 15 Comments »
December 26th, 2013
Nadal, Djokovic Cash In This Week At Abu Dhabi Exo; Murray Back On Court
The last three Grand Slam winners – Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray – are all in the Abu Dhabi exo this week.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 10:04 am in 2014 Season, Exhibitions | 22 Comments »
December 28th, 2012
Novak Djokovic: I'm Already Surprised By Where My Game Is At
It's just an exhibition to the start the year, but Novak Djokovic is already making a statement that he is in mid-season form. After trouncing David Ferrer 60, 63 to reach the Abu Dhabi final, the world No. 1 declared he's surprised by his level of play. "The way I was playing in the three [...]
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 12:42 pm in 2013 Season, Exhibitions | 51 Comments »
December 11th, 2012
Confirmed! Rafael Nadal Will Play The Abu Dhabi Exhibition In 17 Days!
Rafael Nadal has confirmed his appearance at the Abu Dhabi exhibition later this month.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 12:48 pm in 2012 Season | 43 Comments »
October 2nd, 2012
Rafael Nadal Sets Return To Tennis At… Abu Dhabi?
The Abu Dhabi exo played at the end of December has announced Rafael Nadal will be in the field.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 10:08 am in 2013 Season, Exhibitions | 114 Comments »
December 30th, 2011
Nadal, Federer Falter Setting Up 'Loser Bowl' Saturday In Abu Dhabi
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal resume their rivalry in an exo practice match tomorrow in Abu Dhabi.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 7:45 pm in 2012 Season, Exhibitions | 55 Comments »
December 28th, 2011
Abu Dhabi Tennis Exo Schedule: Djokovic, Federer And Nadal Ready For Battle
Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are set to open a star-studded exo in Abu Dhabi tomorrow.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 10:23 am in Exhibitions | 51 Comments »


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Suppressing Compression of Resources
By default, the Android Asset Packaging Tool (aapt)
compresses resources during packaging. However you can have resources of a certain type included in the
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by changing the settings of the Android facet.
To suppress compressing resources of a certain type
- Select File | Project structure from the main menu.
- In the left-hand pane, select Modules, then in the central pane click the Android facet under the module with the resources to be packaged uncompressed.
- In the right-hand pane, switch to the Compiler tab.
In the Additional command line parameters text box, type
-0 <file extension for this type of resources>. As a result, all files with the specified extension will be excluded from compression.
See Also
Web Resources:
Last modified: 6 April 2015


text:
|About - Yokohama YK580
The Yokohama YK580 is part of the tire test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, performance all season tire models like the YK580 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
|About This Brand
Yokohama is a Japanese company with a global presence. Its North America headquarters are in southern California. Targeting performance enthusiasts, Yokohama tires place emphasis on handling and dry and wet grip. Its tires reflect this focus, our testing shows. Generally, we find that Yokohama tires are a good choice for consumers who live where winter driving is not a factor.
|Features & Specs - Yokohama YK580
|Speed rating
|Treadwear warranty
|UTQG treadwear
|UTQG traction
|UTQG temperature
|Size tested
|More features and specs
User Reviews - Yokohama YK580
User Reviews
Already own it? Write a review
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Not Impressed
Dry grip
Wet grip
Winter traction
Best Uses
These are the worst tires I have ever owned. When purchasing them a few years back, I was told they were great tires...NOT SO.

They have never done well in snow, I know they are not snow tires, but the cheapo tires I use to buy for my old Camry way out performed these.

The biggest gripe I have is the poor dry and even worse wet grip. I am overall a very conservative driver but if I ever have to rev it up the tires break traction. I drive a Mazda3, so an average powered car. Any time I rev above 4K rpm, the tires will break loose and the traction control kicks in, I can live with this because rarely is there a situation where this is necessary. But in wet weather, they are plain frightening. If I rev above 2.5K rpm, which is not very high they instantly break traction, and if I have have to more than lightly touch my brakes they will loose traction.

I have about 35K miles on them and cannot wait until they are worn out (they have between 3-4/32nds left) so I can get some tires that are of some quality.

Stay away from these tires! They are the worst tires I have ever owned, even worse than cheapo tires that I use to get.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Wear too quickly
Tread life
Best Uses
After 33K miles, tread already worn well lower than 4/32nds--getting close to 2/32nds. At least I get a bit of a discount on the next set.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
YK580 (YK520) tires are fabulous!
Dry grip
Ride comfort
Tread life
Wet grip
Best Uses
Our tires are YK520 but I was told YK580 replaced our model. Our YK520 tires have been GREAT. We have 52,000 miles on them and still have enough tread to get the 60,000 miles they are guaranteed to get. I rarely get the warranted mileage from a tire, so I'm very happy with these. Both my wife & I drive the Lexus these tires are on so the tires obtain different types of driving. We're very satisfied. And our Goodyear dealer stated a price of $87 per tire + tax, etc. (Good Price -So. Calif)
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.


text: Jet Skiing Through Your Hurricane-Ravaged Neighborhood Sam Biddle and 105 othersEditDelete Invite manuallyPromoteXDismissXUndismissBlock for gizmodoHide What would you do if you woke up after Irene and saw your entire town had been flooded? Check your basement? Call friends and see if they're okay? Hell no, brah—get out the jet ski and get x-treme. » 8/31/11 11:40am 8/31/11 11:40am


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The Naismith Trophy Preseason Watch List was announced Thursday morning.
It consists of 50 players, 44 of whom were on the initial ballot I filed (as one of six members of the Atlanta Tipoff Club's Board of Selectors). The players on the Preseason Watch List missing from my initial ballot are Patrick Christopher (California), Jerome Dyson (Connecticut), Jerome Jordan (Tulsa), Sylven Landesberg (Virginia), A.J. Ogilvy (Vanderbilt) and Edwin Ubiles (Siena). Instead, I had Kenny Boynton (Florida), DeMarcus Cousins (Kentucky), Wesley Johnson (Syracuse), E'Twaun Moore (Purdue), Lance Stephenson (Cincinnati) and Tyshawn Taylor (Kansas).
Anyway, here's the list (in alphabetical order):
- Solomon Alabi (Florida State)
- Cole Aldrich (Kansas)
- Al-Farouq Aminu (Wake Forest)
- James Anderson (Oklahoma State)
- Luke Babbitt (Nevada)
- Talor Battle (Penn State)
- Trevor Booker (Clemson)
- Matt Bouldin (Gonzaga)
- Craig Brackins (Iowa State)
- Avery Bradley (Texas)
- Da'Sean Butler (West Virginia)
- Sherron Collins (Kansas)
- Patrick Christopher (California)
- Ed Davis (North Carolina)
- Devan Downey (South Carolina)
- Jerome Dyson (Connecticut)
- Devin Ebanks (West Virginia)
- Derrick Favors (Georgia Tech)
- Luke Harangody (Notre Dame)
- Manny Harris (Michigan)
- Gordon Hayward (Butler)
- Lazar Hayward (Marquette)
- Xavier Henry (Kansas)
- Robbie Hummel (Purdue)
- Damion James (Texas)
- Jerome Jordan (Tulsa)
- Sylven Landesberg (Virginia)
- Gani Lawal (Georgia Tech)
- Kalin Lucas (Michigan State)
- Tasmin Mitchell (LSU)
- Greg Monroe (Georgetown)
- A.J. Ogilvy (Vanderbilt)
- Patrick Patterson (Kentucky)
- Jerome Randle (Calfornia)
- Scottie Reynolds (Villanova)
- Samardo Samuels (Louisville)
- Larry Sanders (VCU)
- Kyle Singler (Duke)
- Tyler Smith (Tennessee)
- Isaiah Thomas (Washington)
- Evan Turner (Ohio State)
- Edwin Ubiles (Siena)
- Jarvis Varnado (Mississippi State)
- Greivis Vasquez (Maryland)
- Kemba Walker (Connecticut)
- John Wall (Kentucky)
- Willie Warren (Oklahoma)
- Terrico White (Ole Miss)
- Nic Wise (Arizona)
- Chris Wright (Dayton)
The Big 12 and SEC each had eight.
By class, it breaks down like this:
- Seniors: 19
- Juniors: 14
- Sophomores: 12
- Freshmen: 5
The list will be trimmed to 30 players in February.
It'll be narrowed to four finalists in March.


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Fantasy blasphemy? Time to consider trading Rivers
Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert combined for 28 touches versus the Jets, their lowest total of the season. Neither player had a big game, but Tolbert did score a touchdown in the first half. I don't think there's any major concern though, as they still collectively managed 97 yards rushing. However, they also posted their lowest game receiving with just 26 yards on four receptions—all by Mathews. Had the Chargers not fallen behind in the second half, their numbers likely would have increased.
Surprisingly, the Chargers two touchdowns came on their two trips inside the red zone. But just like other aspects of the game, they excelled in some but hurt in others. As I mentioned, after playing well on third down in the first half, they punted three times, turned the ball over twice on interceptions and lost the ball on downs in the second half. As a result, Nick Novak finished with just three PAT's and didn't attempt a field goal. That likely won't be the case in upcoming games though, so figure on plenty of points from Novak down the road.
The Chargers defense arguably had its best fantasy output of the season. However, the team has yet to put a complete game together and consequently, each unit has remained inconsistent in one aspect or another. I still don't think the defense is worth starting, but they finally had the turnovers and a touchdown to warrant a solid game, yet they allowed 318 total yards and 27 points.


text:
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This contact is also available to the Amateur Radio community on the Echolink AMSAT Conference server and IRLP Node 9010 - Discovery Reflector
More information about ARISS is available at:
Next Contact:
From 2015-05-11 to 2015-06-14, there will be no
US Operational Segment (USOS)
hams on board ISS.
So any schools contacts during this period will
conducted by the ARISS Russia team.
ARISS is an international working group, consisting of delegations from 9 countries including several countries in Europe as well as Japan, Russia, Canada, and the USA. The organization is run by volunteers from the national amateur radio organizations and the international AMSAT (Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation) organizations from each country. Since ARISS is international in scope, the team coordinates locally with their respective space agencies:
ESA, CSA, NASA. JAXA, Roscosmos
This site is owned and operated by AG9D for the distribution of live contact audio
Information About the Next Contact
Cepes is situated in Jodoigne, a city in the French speaking region of Belgium. It is a secundary school gathering 810 students. The students participating to the ARISS project specialize in Sciences, Mathematics, Languages and Human Sciences. They are 15 -20 years old.
Mimar Sinan College is situated in Istanbul, Turkey. The students prepared the questions after they learned about the ISS during science lessons.They
also watched videos of astronauts working in the ISS.
Email Notification of Contacts
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Painted in the late hours of last night and until 4ish today.
Been a while since I've painted someone smiling, oddly enough.
Gotta love slightly red noses for stylistic purposes, and not because the character has a cold haha.
Let me know what you think :)
Full version (and process gif!) is here, as well as most of my recent paintings and drawings.
More Louis Bullock
keyboard shortcuts: ← previous shot → next shot L or F like Z toggle zoom


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Doc Green and Steve Rogers go on an adventure!
As the world comes to an end, Widow flashing back to one of her first jobs for the Red Room.
How did the Ultrons rise to power?
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All News & Views
- Today
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- Brief (3)
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Karnataka Urban Water Supply Modernization Project: FAQs
Why is this continuous supply model being proposed for the three cities of Hubli-Dharwad, Belgaum and Gulbarga?The three Karnataka cities - Hubli-Dharwad, Belgaum and Gulbarga - remain the leaders in providing... Show More +
24x7 Water Supply: FAQs
What is 24x7 water supply?24x7 water supply means that every consumer gets water at full pressure 24 hours a day, seven days a week. While this level of service is common in several of the world's cities,... Show More +
Karnataka Urban Water Supply Modernization Project Brief
No Indian city supplies water to its citizens 24 hours a day, despite there being typically enough water available to do so. Most people in towns and cities receive water for a couple of hours a... Show More +
Understanding the Links and Interactions between Low Sanitation and Health Insurance in India
Good sanitation is indispensable for reducing many diseases and improving overall public health. There are also important economic consequences – the World Bank's Water and Sanitation Program estimates that... Show More +
Knowledge Exchange in Lending Programs Can Play a Vital Role in Improving Development Outcomes
Visiting project officials from the states interacted with senior government officials from Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Kerala as well as civil society organizations on the nitty-gritties of planning and implementing... Show More +
Water Supply and Sanitation: Sector Results Profile
Bank Group ContributionThe World Bank Group is the world's largest external source of finance for water-related interventions. The total IBRD and IDA financing approved for water supply and sanitation... Show More +
World Bank Approves $24 million Additional Financing to Restore Rural Water Supply & Sanitation (RWSS) Services in Disaster Affected Areas of Uttarakhand
The additional financing will restore RWSS services for over a million rural peopleWASHINGTON, March 04, 2014 – The World Bank today approved an additional financing of $24 million credit for the Uttarakhand... Show More +
India: Three Karnataka Towns Lead the way in Providing 24/7 Water Supply
Livelihoods improveLivelihoods have benefitted too. In Belgaum, 35 year old Noor Ahmed, a bubble-bottle seller, needs 15-20 pots of water a day to scrub his bottles and concoct the bubble solution. Before... Show More +
Infographic: What's a Toilet Worth in South Asia?
Click image for full resolution.
New Vice President for South Asia visits India
Braving the monsoon rain, the vice president also met with farmers in Lakhanwala and Hursaina villages who have used technology made available under the World Bank-financed Sodic Lands Reclamation... Show More +
World Bank approves $360 million to strengthen and modernize water sector in UP, India's most populous state
About one million farm families will benefit WASHINGTON, August 28 2013 -- A $360 million credit to India's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh (UP), was approved by the World Bank Board of Executive... Show More +
India: A tap and toilet at home offers hope and dignity in rural Karnataka
A superstar villageBelgaum district's Olmani village, one of the area's most barren villages where wells dried up in the scorching summer heat, is now considered a 'superstar' and an ideal place to marry... Show More +
India: Getting Water on Tap in Rural Kerala
Women benefit, water quality improves, and people are satisfiedWith water now available at the turn of a tap within family compounds, rural women have gained the most. They no longer have to spend hours... Show More +
Infographic: What Climate Change Means for Africa and Asia
Click the image for FULL RESOLUTION
A Day in Uttar Pradesh: Jim Kim Sees the Scale of Development Challenges
Urban poverty – the new challengeNext, Kim visited Gwaltoli, a low-income neighborhood in the once-proud industrial city of Kanpur, long a magnet for poor rural migrants. With some 10 million people moving... Show More +
Guddi's Story: Navigating India's Urban Transformation
The face of urban povertyIn many ways, Sankhwar's life typifies that of her neighbors. In a society that has traditionally seen daughters as a liability to be packed off to their marital homes as soon... Show More +
Rural Punjab introduces meters and pilots 24/7 water supply
INNOVATIONMetering and BillingTo encourage households to opt for metered connections, a number of innovative measures were adopted:An innovative communication campaign was undertaken: Innovative means... Show More +
Climate Change Infographic: Avoiding a 4°C Warmer World
Click the image for FULL RESOLUTION.
Transcript: Development Committee Press Conference
MR. MILLS: Well, thank you very much for joining us for this closing press conference. Our participants will each make an opening statement and then we'll take... Show More +
Transcript of Opening Press Conference with World Bank Group President Robert Zoellick
MR. MILLS: Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us for our World Bank Group press conference for the 2012 Spring Meetings. Joining me this morning is the President of the World Bank... Show More +


text:
Making Out With Blowfish
No, no, this is not something that happened to me at my last high school reunion(!)...rather, it's the title of Brian Sweany's new novel that I'll be giving away this afternoon (Monday) on 4:30 on Puffman Musical Trivia
No, no, this is not something that happened to me at my last high school reunion(!)...rather, it's the title of Brian Sweany's new novel that I'll be giving away this afternoon (Monday) on 4:30 on Puffman Musical Trivia
That's what the Wall Street Journal's Roger Lowenstein calls this New York Times Bestseller that is up for grabs at 4:30 this afternoon (Monday) on Puffman Musical Trivia. The book is, "Bitter Brew; The Rise and fall of Anheuser-Busch and America's Kings of Beer" not to be confused with the other "King"
Chris Kyle, the author of "American Sniper", says "Johnny is responsible for saving many American lives, especially SEAL's. He has an amazing story that needs to be told, and would touch the hearts of all Americans
These 3 brothers had a real passion for baseball...they were the DiMaggio Bros & I'm giving away a great "Sports Read" tomorrow morning (Saturday) at 7:30 on Puffman Sports Trivia. The book is: "The DiMAGGIOS Three Brothers, Their Passion For Baseball, Their Pursuit of the American Dream" by Tom Clavin & this tome scores a real home run! The clever Clavin is the author of 15 books & was a contributor to the infamous New York Times for 15 years, so he must know what he is doing.The Boston
The Cub Scout Air Band will be performing this evening down in Conrad at the beautiful Orpheum Theatre. Tonight's performance is scheduled to start at 6:30 & it should befamily friendly fun event & a great way to warm up on a cold, cold February evening. The ad
That's the title of the book that I'm giving away this afternoon (Monday) at 4:30 on Puffman Musical Trivia! "Marching to Zion" is Mary Glickman's new novel & Mary is already a National Jewish Book FINALIST for her "One More River." "
It's Presidents Day & this afternoon (Monday) on Puffman Musical Trivia at 4:30, I'm giving way Brian Vanyo's book, "The American Ideology; Taking Back our Country with the Philosophy of our Founding Fathers." B
It's Valentine's Week & it's going to be an afternoon of "Chocolate & Music" tomorrow (Wednesday) down at the Conrad Public Library with the infamous Wylie Gustafson performing. Everyone is welcome to stop by for a truly special Wednesday afternoon during Valentine's Week. Tomorr
Outside of marrying a radio broadcaster...how DO you marry the right guy? It's all in the new hardcover book that I'll be giving away this afternoon (Monday) at 4:30 on Puffman Musical Trivia! The book is, "How To Marry The Right Guy" written by Dr
This coming Tuesday evening, February 11th, is the Shelby Gas Association's Annual Meeting. The Shelby Gas Association's Meeting is set to begin at 7 o'clock SHARP out at the Marias River Electric Coop Hospitality Room & it's going to be a GAS! The Rolling Stones must have been some kind of visionaries when they sang, "Jumping Jack Flash, It's a GAS, GAS, GAS! See you Tuesday night at 7 for the annual meeting.
The 8th Annual Big Sky Big Grass Festival is bringing more big name bluegrass talent known worldwide & the Big Sky Big Grass Regional Band Showcase is happening tomorrow (Thursday) through this Sunday down at Big Sky Resort. Th
It's a "Guidebook" for finding AND keeping good housemates...it's Annamarie Pluhar's timely tome, "Sharing Housing; A Guidebook for Finding and Keeping Good Housemates" & it's the prize this afternoon (Monday) at 4:30 on Puffman Musical Trivia! The author, Annamarie Pluhar, is a consultant with expertise in group dynamics, interpersonal relations, & instructional design. Living


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An Accidental StatisticianWiley 2013; US$ 35.95
Celebrating the life of an admired pioneer in statistics In this captivating and inspiring memoir, world-renowned statistician George E. P. Box offers a firsthand account of his life and statistical work. Writing in an engaging, charming style, Dr. Box reveals the unlikely events that led him to a career in statistics, beginning with his job... more...
Fisher, Neyman, and the Creation of Classical StatisticsSpringer New York 2011; US$ 34.95
Written by the pre-eminent E. L Lehman Examines the history of statistics through the personal and professional relationships of Neyman and Fisher, two of�the discipline's�most influential contributors Creates a personal account of the creation of hypothesis testing, estimation, and the design of experiments and sample surveys more...
A History of Parametric Statistical Inference from Bernoulli to Fischer, 1713-1935Springer 2008; US$ 129.00
Offers a detailed history of parametric statistical inference. This work covers the period between James Bernoulli and R A Fisher. It examines: binomial statistical inference; statistical inference by inverse probability; the central limit theorem and linear minimum variance estimation by Laplace and Gauss; and more. more...
Leading Personalities in Statistical SciencesWiley 2011; US$ 148.00
A fascinating chronicle of the lives and achievements of the men and women who helped shapethe science of statistics This handsomely illustrated volume will make enthralling reading for scientists, mathematicians, and science history buffs alike. Spanning nearly four centuries, it chronicles the lives and achievements of more than 110 of the most... more...
Reminiscences of a StatisticianSpringer New York 2007; US$ 59.99
Professor Lehmann has known many remarkable statisticians and mathematicians. This book is an autobiographical account of his encounters, following the steps of his own career. Taken together, these sketches provide a very personal picture of the development of statistical theory from the 1930?s to the 1970?s. It is the period between two revolutions:... more...
Statistics in ActionCRC Press 2014; US$ 99.95
"A handful of nominations came in for this book, commissioned by the Statistical Society of Canada to mark the 2013 International Year of Statistics. Among the recommendations was this from Nema Dean: ?Written for a sophisticated general audience (students included), most chapters provide a peek into an area of statistics?including the methodology?motivated... more...
The Work of Raymond J. CarrollSpringer International Publishing 2014; US$ 149.00
41 papers of Raymond J. Carroll�in one volume with�original�commentary by noted statisticians Features defining developments in Nonparametric and Semiparametric Statistics Shows influence on applied areas, in particular creation of�methodology for nutritional epidemiology more...
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This is not the first time that El Al has been abusive to a passenger. It is time for anyone who believes in human rights to fly another airline.
If selected for publication, it will appear as soon as possible on Haaretz.com.
A Jewish Israeli soldier is demanding an apology from El Al Airlines, claiming he was humiliated by security staff at the Brussels airport because he has an Arab-sounding name.


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Haxe to depart AllianceBernstein
04 January 2013
The co-head of AllianceBernstein's client group for Europe, the Middle East and Africa is to depart the firm a year after taking on the new role.
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text:
Court of Criminal Appeals races offer stark - and easy - choices
If the Texas Supreme Court gets scant media attention, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the state's highest appellate court for criminal cases, gets even less. It was once described as the Rodney Dangerfield of the Texas judiciary. That makes it even tougher for voters to evaluate candidates.
But as it is with the Supreme Court this year, the decisions are easy in this general election. Three seats are open for full six-year terms; Republican incumbents are seeking re-election in all the contests over challengers without judicial experience.
The Editorial Board recommends re-election of Sharon Keller as presiding judge. She has held the post for the past six years. In 1994, She became the first woman elected to serve on the Court of Criminal Appeals. In the primary, she beat out a fellow jurist on the court, Tom Price, for the presiding judge post. There has been an ongoing feud over personality and judicial philosophy on the court between Keller and Price. Her challenger in the general election is a Democrat, Fort Worth attorney J. R. Molina, who lacks judicial experience. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for the court four years ago.
In Place 7, the board recommends the re-election of Barbara Hervey, who was first elected to the court in 2000. She is a former assistant district attorney in Bexar County. Her opponent in the general election is an attorney, Quanah Parker, a Libertarian.
In Place 8, the board recommends the re-election of Charles Holcomb over Libertarian challenger Dave Howard. Holcomb is 73 years old; he will have to resign when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 75. That would give Gov. Perry, who has achieved a solid record in filling judicial vacancies, an opportunity to make an appointment to fill Holcomb's unexpired term.
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40 year old woman | San Diego, CA, USA | Seeking men 40-50 within 50 miles of Hemet, CA
Im a well balanced woman, strong, smart, & sexy* I'm ready to Smile, Laugh & Enjoy life again* (= *Im turning another year younger on 1/1
I'm educated, responsible, funny, and Loyal. I'm a true giver, take care of the people I love . With my mate I cater to him, i treat him the way he deserves to be treated, like my king and I am his queen and is deserving of my love as I am his* Im not seeking serial dating!. I'm looking for someone to treat me the way I deserve to be treated. My dream mate is someone that is Employed and is secure and his job Field. He must uses his manners, polite, honest, hard-working, kind hearted, respectful, driven, compassionate, and has a great sense of humor, creativity and who is confident, caring, loving, energetic, and spontaneous that enjoys, the outdoors activities hiking camping, boating, rock climbing, and more. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Until next time enjoy your day... with many smiles and much laughter because we only have 24 hours in our day and we definitely don't have a minute to waste Always, respectful and loving, Tamara* , Manners and shivery is the way to my heart* My friends and family call me lovely lady.... My family and friends are close, We inspire, challenge and Support one another*
Camping , Coffee and conversation , Cooking , Dining out , Fishing/Hunting , Gardening/Landscaping , Movies/Videos , Museums and art , Music and concerts , Exploring new areas , Performing arts , Playing cards , Religion/Spiritual , Travel/Sightseeing , Volunteering , Watching sports , Wine tasting
Auto racing / Motorcross, Billiards / Pool, Bowling, Martial arts, Other types of exercise, Swimming, Walking / Hiking, Weights / Machines
I have Dogs
I like Fish, Horses
I have three dogs, Sugar, is 5yrs. she's a Belgian Malinois Chr-Chr his 1yrs. (my son's dog) Chu-Winnie mix. Our new edition Paisley she's only 4 1/2 months. & is also a Chu-Winnie mix
Middle of the Road
Sushi places in San Diego Thailand Jamaica I like to travel to Ireland
I enjoy jazz house music reggae, rock and some R and B. I like 3-D movies.TV shows like lawn order, two broke girls Mike and Molly, Being human, What would you do?, rescue restaurants. Honestly I'm a big tv person (-= I enjoy cooking & Barbecuing
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The hunger games
Z{{Cta}} {{#if HasMoreInfo}} ?{{CtaSecondary}} {{/if}}
|What she is looking for
|5'7" (170cms)
|5'11" (180cms) to 6'3" (190cms)
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|I'll tell you later
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|No Way
|Cigar aficionado
|Social Drinker
|Social Drinker
|Medical / Dental / Veterinary / Fitness
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(Since 2007) I own & run my house keeping business, as well, I'm also a in-home care provider. Working for the County of Riverside. On weekends and holidays I also like to work farmers markets.
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|$75,001 to $100,000, $100,001 to $150,000, $150,001+
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|White / Caucasian, Other
|Black / African descent, Native American, White / Caucasian, Other
I'm Irish
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|Christian / Catholic, Spiritual but not religious, Christian / Other
|Associates degree
|Graduate degree, PhD / Post Doctoral


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The National Parkinson Foundation produces a variety of publications for people with Parkinson's and their caregivers and families in English and Spanish.
The following publications can be ordered in our online store and will be shipped to you free of charge:
En Español:
The following publications are only available online as PDFs:
The Parkinson Report is the National Parkinson Foundation's official newsletter made available to all members of the Foundation three times a year. It contains articles written by Parkinson's researchers, medical practitioners, and caregivers, as well as contributions from NPF's staff. The current edition, and prior editions, are available in PDF format. For just $25 a year, become a member of NPF to receive free issues at home.
This short brochure describes ten symptoms that may be early signs of Parkinson's disease. Each symptom of concern is listed along with 'What is normal'. If you have more than one symptom, you may want to visit your doctor.
Informational brochure with questions to ask your doctor and tips on building a health care team. In English and Spanish.
Spanish version of How to Live Well with Parkinson's Disease.
On the front side of the card, is space for a Parkinson's patient to fill out an identity card with his/her name, address, phone number, and emergency contact and a short description of the disease identifying the card holder as a Parkinson's patient. On the reverse side is a listing of medications that are counter indicated (should not be used) for those using Parkinson's medications. This card can be requested in our online store.
© 2015 National Parkinson Foundation | Privacy & Terms of Use


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New and Published Books
11-14 of 14 results in Expertise: Research and Applications Series
Cognitive Task Analysis
Series: Expertise: Research and Applications Series
Cognitive task analysis is a broad area consisting of tools and techniques for describing the knowledge and strategies required for task performance. Cognitive task analysis has implications for the development of expert systems, training and instructional design, expert decision making and...
Published June 1st 2000 by Psychology Press
The Nature of Expertise in Professional Acting
A Cognitive View
Series: Expertise: Research and Applications Series
For nearly 25 years, expertise has been considered an important testing ground for theories of cognition. Cognitive scientists have examined experts as diverse as chess masters, waiters, field-hockey players, and computer programmers. Recently, increased attention has been given to the arts,...
Published August 1st 1997 by Psychology Press
Naturalistic Decision Making
Series: Expertise: Research and Applications Series
If you aren't using the term naturalistic decision making, or NDM, you soon will be. Even as a very young field, NDM has already had far-reaching applications in areas as diverse as management, aviation, health care, nuclear power, military command and control, corporate teamwork, and manufacturing...
Published December 1st 1996 by Psychology Press
Expertise and Technology
Cognition & Human-computer Cooperation
Series: Expertise: Research and Applications Series
Technological development has changed the nature of industrial production so that it is no longer a question of humans working with a machine, but rather that a joint human machine system is performing the task. This development, which started in the 1940s, has become even more pronounced with the...
Published December 1st 1994 by Psychology Press


text:
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text:
CSU 4, Presbyterian 0
CLINTON - Charleston Southern third baseman Alex Tomasovich had a two-run home run and an RBI double, while starter - and brother - Andrew Tomasovich tossed a complete-game shutout as the Buccaneers shut down Presbyterian on Saturday.
The win is the eighth straight for CSU and is one shy of the longest winning streak in program history. Three CSU team have won nine consecutive games, most recently in 1993.
The Buccaneers improved to 25-20 overall and 8-11 in Big South play, while PC fells to 14-30-1 and 6-17 in conference play.
The series finale is Sunday at 1 p.m. at the PC Baseball Complex.
Third baseman Alex Tomasvich began the day by graduating in CSU's commencement ceremonies on Saturday morning and, despite arriving not long before the game, he powered the Bucs' offense.
The senior yanked a double just inside the third-base line to score Andrew Widell in the bottom of the first and give the Bucs a quick 1-0 lead. He followed with a towering two-run home run in the third off top half of the scoreboard in left field to push CSU's lead to 4-0.
"I told our team (after the game) that has to be a neat moment for their dad," CSU head coach Stuart Lake said. "To have them both play like that on a day when one graduates and for Alex to get here and have no time to get ready and come out with those two at-bats is pretty special."
The senior was more worried about making it to the game on time than being focused and ready to play.
"I left graduation and drove straight here," Alex Tomasovich said. "I hit a few balls in the cage, threw a little bit, and played. There wasn't time to think about everything that went into the day, I just went out and played. "
Had Alex not been zoned in early, his brother had things covered.
Sophomore Andrew Tomasovich (5-2) scattered six hits and struck out two in limiting the Blue Hose. He recorded 12 fly outs, walked one, and needed only 100 pitches. It was the first complete-game win of his career and his second straight win. His scoreless inning streak is at 14.2 innings.
"Andrew came out and gave us a chance with a lot of strikes to get control early," Lake added. "He throws 100 pitches and he wasn't coming out. I tried to get him in the seventh and eighth, but he wasn't going anywhere. It's good for tomorrow because our staff is so fresh."
"This was really special," Alex Tomasovich said of the brothers' day. "It's fun playing with him no matter what, but when he pitches like he did today, it's special and something we'll both remember for a long time. I'm proud of the way he pitched today and hopefully we can get another win tomorrow."
The shutout was the Bucs' fifth of the season, which ties a school record set in 1980.
Catcher Sam Remick added two hits for the Bucs and finished 2-for-3. Bobby Ison walked and scored a run, but was 0-for-4 and had a 11-game hitting streak snapped.
Presbyterian Aaron Lesiak (1-6) held the Bucs to five hits in seven innings of work, but PC couldn't overcome the Bucs' early lead.
Senior Levi Mauldin (4-2), who also graduated on Saturday morning, will start on Sunday for the Bucs.
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text: I just ruined my new 6600gt that I got back from RMA yesterday. :( I was so excited about the card, so I decided to flash the bios to a better one. The flash failed, even though the firmware was suppoosedly correct. So now i have a non-functioning card. Is there any way that I can fix this without RMAing it again. I am crying because I know how much my father will yell at me like he did last time. Is there anything I can do?


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Geek Speak
Geek Speak is where the world of Geekdom comes alive.
Posts by Author
'Knights of Badassdom' poster revealed!
SAN ANTONIO — Because the world needs more Peter Dinklage in chainmail — and San Antonio's own Summer Glau in anything — here's an exclusive poster for "Knights of Badassdom." The horror-comedy hits select theaters via Tugg screenings starting Jan. 21, then goes video-on-demand and digital Feb. 11. "Knights of Badassdom" casts "Game of Thrones'" […] [Read More]
Laugh it up, fuzzball! It's Mewbacca, the Wookiee cat!
And so the Internet gives me another Reese's Peanut Butter Cup of awesome. Beloved "Star Wars" character + whole lots of kitty = Mewbacca, the Wookiee cat of your dreams. Grumpy Cat wept. (Spotted via io9.) [Read More]
Antarctic Press offers 'Steam Wars' for Free Comic Book Day 2014
SAN ANTONIO — May the "Steam" be with you this Free Comic Book Day. San Antonio's Antarctic Press will offer Fred Perry's "Steam Wars" for this year's big comic book giveaway, which hits comic shops nationwide May 3. Best known for his long-running "Gold Digger" series, the prolific Perry wrote and illustrated "Steam Wars" as a […] [Read More]
'Sin City: A Dame to Kill For' launches official site
SAN ANTONIO — After soaking our screens in so much sangre with flicks like "Grindhouse," "Machete" and "Machete Kills," it's about time Robert Rodriguez gave us the bloody followup we've really been waiting for. "Sin City: A Dame to Kill For" at last hits theaters Aug. 22. And now there's an official website to prove […] [Read More]
Behold the fury of 'Kung Fury'
SAN ANTONIO — If the world can embrace the spectacle of "Sharknado," then by the gods of cheese it must have "Kung Fury." The high-kicking, low-budget homage to '80s cop movies has already surpassed its Kickstarter goal, so prepare yourself for the awesome when it's released free online. David Sandberg wrote and directed "Kung Fury," […] [Read More]
Lucasfilm & Marvel to publish 'Star Wars' comics and graphic novels
The circle is now complete, again. Disney's Lucasfilm and Marvel Entertainment will team up to craft new "Star Wars" adventures, with Marvel landing exclusive rights to create and publish "Star Wars" comics and graphic novels starting in 2015. No shock here, considering both Lucasfilm and Marvel now reside in the House of Mouse that is […] [Read More]
'Knights of Badassdom' w/Summer Glau hits on-demand/digital Feb. 11, select theaters Jan. 21
SAN ANTONIO — Yea, finally. In case you haven't heard, "Knights of Badassdom," the LARP romp starring San Antonio native and geek goddess Summer Glau, will at last smite thine funny bones with a Feb. 11 on-demand and digital release. The horror-comedy will still get a big-screen bow, of sorts, starting Jan. 21 via Tugg […] [Read More]
And three geek gifts when you just want to splurge
Now for you gift-givers with pockets deeper than a bag of holding, or something like that. Here are some geek wares where price is no object, certainly for that first dreamy item. The Sandman Omnibus Silver Edition ($499.95, limited to 500 numbered copies) Told you so. This ridiculously lavish commemorative set celebrates the 25th anniversary […] [Read More]
Three little geek books that make big geek gifts
Comic book fan that I am, I love it when print works get creative with their words and pictures. But that doesn't mean they all have to burst with splash pages and word balloons to rock my world. Here are three little tomes that make perfect stocking stuffers for any geeks who love the picturesque […] [Read More]
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text:
Musketier On Target in Singspiel Triumph
Musketier , given a confident ride by John Velazquez, hooked up with Grassy in the final furlong to prevail by a hard-fought neck for his second win in the $152,984 Singspiel Stakes (Can-IIIT) (VIDEO) June 26 at Woodbine.
"He's a grand old horse. He didn't really get to run the trip we'd like him to run. I like him to be covered up a little bit," said Attfield. "Johnny couldn't get him covered up, I could see that. Johnny is a very smart rider and he knows how long this stretch is here. He moved a little bit earlier than he wanted to, but he took hold of him a little bit longer so he had some left for the last bit. He did a great job and he's a lovely old horse."
"I carried out a little bit going into that first turn," Velazquez said. "The other gray horse (Grassy) dropped in so I followed him and saved some ground. I got to the half-mile pole and got some momentum going. It took some urging to get him going. I was a little bit early to get after him, but I got at him at the sixteenth pole and won."
"He's got some idiosyncrasies and some problems like myself," grinned Attfield. "If you look after them and keep them happy - he goes out in the pen a lot in the daytime - they give it back to you. He's just a great guy. We're both gray, I know that."
The winner was coming off a fifth-place finish in the 12-furlong Louisville Handicap (gr. IIIT) at Churchill Downs May 28 when he was unable to muster his usual late bid.
Copyright © 2015 The Blood-Horse, Inc. All Rights Reserved.


text:
A cochlear stimulation lead having a pre-curved electrode array is provided. The molding process provides memory to the curved part of the lead. The lead may be made having a stylet insertion channel that extends from a slightly curved or substantially straight section and into the highly curved section of the lead. Because high compliance is desired for the lead in cochlear stimulation applications, the compliance is controlled not only by the taper at the distal end of the lead and overall lead thickness, but also by choosing the material hardness of the lead carrier/covering and employing compliant zigzagged conductor wire. In addition, differential lead compliance/stiffness can be achieved by using a stiff tubing that forms part of the stylet insertion channel.
1. An implantable lead for use with electrical stimulation, the lead comprising:
a flexible carrier having a proximal end, a distal end, a medial side and a lateral side; a distal, pre-curved lead section having memory;
a plurality of electrode contacts embedded at the distal end of the lead, which electrode contacts comprise an electrode array;
a plurality of conductor wires embedded in the carrier, each conductor wire connected to at least one electrode contact;
a longitudinal stylet insertion channel in the carrier extending into at least a part of the distal, pre-curved lead section;
an overmold which caps the opening of the stylet channel and wherein the overmold has a slit opening; and
a pin plug which has a head and a curved tail pin, which pin plug is dimensioned and configured to permit the pin plug to be inserted head first into the overmold slit opening to seal the slit opening;
wherein the overmold has a cross-configured slit for allowing an insertion stylet to be inserted into the stylet insertion channel.
2. A method of implanting an implantable stimulation lead having an insertion stylet channel with a channel opening on the lead body, the method comprising:
(a) implanting the lead using the stylet;
(b) withdrawing the stylet from the lead; and
(c) capping the insertion stylet channel opening,
wherein capping the channel opening is accomplished by taking a pin plug, having a head and curved pin, and inserting the head of the pin plug into the lead to seal the channel opening.
3. A cochlear lead system comprising:
a cochlear lead including:
a flexible carrier having a proximal end and distal end;
a stylet insertion channel incorporated into the flexible carrier; and
an electrode array placed on the distal lead end;
a pin plug for capping the insertion stylet, the pin plug having a head and tail pin with a curvature in the tail pin; and
an insertion tool which has a first end and second end, wherein the first end has a pin plug holding channel that accommodates the tail pin and holds it within the holding channel with a friction fit.
4. An implantable lead for use with electrical stimulation, the lead comprising:
a flexible carrier having a proximal end, a distal end, a medial side and a lateral side;
a distal, pre-curved lead section having memory;
a plurality of electrode contacts embedded at the distal end of the lead, which electrode contacts comprise an electrode array;
a plurality of conductor wires embedded in the carrier, each conductor wire connected to at least one electrode contact;
a longitudinal stylet insertion channel in the carrier extending into at least a part of the distal, pre-curved lead section;
an overmold which caps the opening of the stylet channel and wherein the overmold has a slit opening; and
a pin plucg which has a head and a curved tail pin, which pin plucg is dimensioned and configured to permit the pin plucg to be inserted head first into the overmold slit opening to seal the slit opening,
wherein the most distal tip of the lead that includes a subset of the electrode array is constructed as a super-flexible tip; and
wherein the super-flexible tip does not include the stylet insertion channel and which super-flexible tip has a substantially smaller thickness than the remainder of the distal lead containing the electrode array that is not super-flexible.
5. The lead of
6. The lead of
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/412,253, filed 19 Sep. 2002, which application is herein incorporated by reference.
The present invention relates to implantable stimulation devices, and, more particularly, to electrode arrays for stimulation of the cochlea. Electrode arrays consist of electrode contacts generally placed along one side of an elongate carrier so that when the array is implanted within one of the cochlear ducts such as the scala tympani, the electrode contacts are positioned in close proximity to the cells that are to be stimulated, allowing such cells to be stimulated with minimal power consumption.
For purposes of clarity, as used herein, an implantable stimulating lead is a device that has one or more electrode contacts that deliver current to tissue to be stimulated. An electrode contact is that part of the stimulating device which is actually electrically conductive and is in contact with the body tissue that is to be stimulated. The term "electrode" may sometimes be used narrowly as the electrode contact or contacts only and, other times, more broadly, as the electrode contact or contacts and all the surrounding structure, including the insulation carrier that the contacts are placed upon, as well as the conductor wires and any other assemblies within or on the insulation carrier. As used herein, the broad definition of the term "electrode" will be adopted, which includes the electrode contacts and all surrounding structures. In addition, when the term "lead" is used, it will be used interchangeably with the broad use of the term "electrode." The term "electrode array" will refer to that portion of the electrode or lead that includes all of the electrode contacts and the immediate structures upon which the electrode contacts are attached. Thus, the term "electrode array" may be narrower than the broad term "electrode" in that any carrier insulation and conductor wire that is not immediate to the electrode contacts will not be included in the term "electrode array."
Hearing loss, which may be due to many different causes, is generally of two types: conductive and sensorineural. Of these, conductive hearing loss occurs where the normal mechanical pathways for sound to reach the hair cells in the cochlea are impeded, for example, from damage to the ossicles. Conductive hearing loss may often be helped by using conventional hearing aids that amplify sounds so that acoustic information can reach the cochlea and the hair cells. Some types of conductive hearing loss are also amenable to alleviation by surgical procedures.
In many people who are profoundly deaf, however, the reason for their deafness is sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss can arise from the absence or the destruction of the hair cells in the cochlea which transduce acoustic signals into auditory nerve impulses. Individuals with sensorineural hearing loss are unable to derive any benefit from conventional hearing aid systems no matter how loud the acoustic stimulus is, because the mechanism for transducing sound energy into auditory nerve impulses has been damaged. Thus, in the absence of properly functioning hair cells, auditory nerve impulses cannot be generated directly from sounds.
To overcome sensorineural deafness, cochlear implant systems or cochlear prostheses have been developed, which can bypass the hair cells located in the vicinity of the radially outer wall of the cochlea by presenting electrical stimulation to the auditory nerve fibers directly. This leads to the perception of sound in the brain and provides at least partial restoration of hearing function. Thus, most of these cochlear prosthesis systems treat sensorineural deficit by stimulating the ganglion cells in the cochlear directly using an implanted electrode a or lead that has an electrode array.
A cochlear prosthesis operates by directly stimulating the auditory nerve cells, bypassing the defective cochlear hair cells that normally transduce acoustic energy into electrical activity to the connected auditory nerve cells. In addition to stimulating the nerve cells, the electronic circuitry and the electrode array of the cochlear prosthesis separate the acoustic signal into a number of parallel channels of information, each representing a narrow band of frequencies within the perceived audio spectrum. Ideally, each channel of information should be conveyed selectively to a subset of auditory nerve cells that normally transmits information about that frequency band to the brain. Those nerve cells are arranged in an orderly tonotopic sequence, from the highest frequencies at the basal end of the cochlear spiral to progressively lower frequencies towards the apex. In practice, however, this goal can be difficult to realize because of the particular anatomy of the cochlea.
Over the past several years, a consensus has generally emerged that the scala tympani, one of the three parallel ducts that make up the spiral-shaped cochlea, provides the best location for implantation of an electrode array used as part of a cochlear prosthesis. The electrode array to be implanted in the scala tympani typically can consists of a thin, elongated, flexible carrier containing several longitudinally disposed and separately connected stimulating electrode contacts, conventionally numbering about 6 to 30. Such an electrode array is pushed into the scala tympani duct in the cochlea to a depth of about 20-30 mm via a surgical opening made in the round window at the basal end of the duct.
In use, the cochlear electrode array delivers electrical current into the fluids and tissues immediately surrounding the individual electrode contacts to create transient potential gradients that, if sufficiently strong, cause the nearby auditory nerve fibers to generate action potentials. The auditory nerve fibers branch from cell bodies located in the spiral ganglion which lies in the bone or modiolus, adjacent to the inside wall of the scala tympani. Because the density of electrical current flowing through volume conductors such as tissues and fluids tends to be highest near the electrode contact that is the source of such current stimulation at one contact site tends to selectively activate those spiral ganglion cells and their auditory nerve fibers that are closest to that contact site. Thus, it is important generally for the electrode contacts to be positioned as close to the ganglion cells as possible. Conventionally, after implant, the electrode array consisting of electrode contacts should hug the modiolar wall (or inside wall of the scala tympani). When the electrode side of the array is positioned closest to the modiolar wall, the electrode contacts are on the medial side of the lead.
In order to address the above need, it is known in the art to make an intracochlear electrode array that includes a spiral-shaped, resilient carrier which generally has a natural, spiral shape so that the array better conforms to the shape of the scala tympani. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,819,647, which is incorporated herein by reference. While the electrode array with a spiral-shaped carrier shown in the '647 patent represents a significant advance in the art, it lacks sufficient shape memory to allow it to return to its original curvature (once having been straightened for initial insertion) and to provide sufficient hugging force to wrap snugly against the modiolus of the cochlea.
It is also known in the art, as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,545,219 and 5,645,585, to construct an electrode carrier from two initially straight members, a rod-like electrode carrier and a flexible rod-like positioning member. The '219 and '585 U.S. patents are also incorporated herein by reference. As shown in these patents, the two members extend in substantially parallel relation to and closely alongside each other, but are connected to each other only at their respective leading and trailing ends. After implant, a pushing force is applied to the positioning member so that it is forced to assume an outwardly arched configuration relative to the electrode carrier, thereby forcing the electrode carrier into a close hugging engagement with the modiolus and placing the electrode contacts as close to the cells of the spiral ganglion as possible. The '219 patent, in particular, shows in
While the electrode arrays taught in the above-referenced '219 and '585 patents are based on the correct goal, i.e., to force the electrode carrier into a close hugging engagement with the modiolus, it does so only by using an additional element that makes manufacture of the lead more difficult and expensive and only by applying an additional pushing force to an electrode structure after it has already been inserted into the cochlea. Such additional pushing force may cause damage to the delicate scala tympani or cause the electrode contacts to twist or to separate away from the modiolus, rather than be placed in the desired hugging relationship.
Thus, while it has long been known that an enhanced performance of a cochlear electrode or lead can be achieved by proper placement of the electrode contacts close to the modiolar wall of the cochlea, a major challenge has been obtaining a electrode/lead design that does not use excessive force to achieve this close placement. There has either been the need for application of an external and possibly unsafe force or a lack of sufficient shape memory to allow the electrode to assume or return to the desired curvature (after the electrode has been initially straightened during insertion) so that the electrode array wraps snugly around the modiolus of the cochlea.
It is thus evident that improvements are still needed to obtain a cochlear electrode that has shape memory, is easily implanted so that excessive force is not required, and can be easily manufactured.
The present invention addresses the above and other needs by providing a cochlear electrode design having a curved electrode array for insertion into a cochlear cavity and methods for manufacturing various aspects of the cochlear electrode of the present invention.
In one aspect of the invention, there is provided an improved stimulation lead for implanting into a body cavity. The lead comprises: a flexible carrier having a proximal end, a distal end, a medial side and a lateral side; a distal, pre-curved lead section having memory; a plurality of electrode contacts embedded at the distal end of the lead, which electrode contacts comprise an electrode array; a plurality of conductor wires embedded in the carrier, each conductor wire connected to at least one electrode contact; and a longitudinal, stylet insertion channel within the carrier extending into at least a part of the distal, pre-curved lead section.
The pre-curved section of the lead, which includes at least some of the electrode array, has memory because the electrode contacts and connected conductor wires which form an electrode contact assembly are pre-bent into the desired curvature before the flexible carrier is formed around the electrode contact assembly. Thus, not only is the carrier molded into a predetermined curved shape having memory, but the electrode contact assembly is also pre-bent into a desired curvature to cooperate with the molded carrier shape. The pre-curved lead section has an internal, elastic characteristic, whereby straightening the curved section exerts an elastic, contractive tension, tending to restore that section to its initial shape.
The present invention utilizes various components in the lead design to cooperate and to achieve a desired, high compliance in the curve section of the lead. Specifically, conventional conductor wires are typically straight wires or coiled wires. The conductor wires of choice, however, are zigzag wires because they are relatively compliant, offer fracture resistance to bending and can be compactly bundled. While straight wires can be compactly bundled, they are more susceptible to bending fractures than zigzag or coiled wires. Coil wires are not as easily bundled compactly as straight or zigzag conductor wires. Although zigzagged conductor wires are preferably used, it is emphasized that the lead design of the present invention can incorporate a variety of conductor wire configurations including straight and coil type wires.
The lead of the present invention includes a stylet insertion channel which is used during implantation of the lead to help guide the lead into a cavity. For example, in the case of a cochlear stimulating lead, an insertion stylet may be inserted into the insertion channel to facilitate the initial placement of the lead tip into the scala tympani. While the stylet insertion channel may be directly formed within the lead carrier itself, such a stylet insertion channel may not give optimal results because the compliant carrier material may have a surface texture that is too sticky to function well as a stylet channel wall. Accordingly, the lead of the present invention not only includes a stylet insertion channel, but a part of this channel may be made from a thin-wall tubing that is a different material than the carrier material. A particularly suitable tubing material is Teflon� or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) polymer.
Use of a Teflon tubing in the lead serves two major purposes. First, the Teflon is much stiffer than carrier material which is generally silicone or polyurethane. Incorporating a Teflon tubing therefore provides added stiffness to that part of the lead. Second, the Teflon tubing makes inserting and withdrawing a stylet into and out of the stylet insertion channel much easier because Teflon is a harder material and exhibits less friction than silicone or polyurethane. As a consequence, Teflon also does not tear as easily as the carrier material.
As yet another embodiment of the lead of the present invention, an overmold can be attached over the opening of the stylet insertion channel to minimize fluid and bacteria from entering the stylet insertion channel. The overmold may be made from the same material as the lead carrier material, e.g., silicone or polyurethane. A slit in the overmold is placed to allow passage of the insertion stylet through the slit and into the stylet insertion channel. The slit must be sized and configured to permit the stylet to pass easily through the slit. After the stylet is withdrawn, the slit, being made of a compliant material, will self-seal to some extent, as it returns to its original conformation.
As a further embodiment of the stimulation lead of the present invention, the use of the slit may not always be sufficiently tight to keep out fluid and bacteria and hence two additional devices may be used for sealing the slit in the overmold. The first device is a pin plug that has a head and a tail pin, which tail pin may have a curvature. The pin plug may be inserted head first into the slit in the overmold to seal the slit through a compression/friction fit. After the head has been inserted into the slit, the tail pin may be left outside the overmold. A second device is a malleable ring that may be formed into the overmold and encircles the slit. After the lead has been implanted with the insertion stylet and the stylet withdrawn, the ring may be crushed around the slit to provide a compression seal.
The lead, in accordance with the present invention, can be made in at least two specific embodiments for cochlear stimulation. One lead can be made for medial placement in the human scala tympani, which is one duct in the cochlea. This embodiment of the lead has a pre-curved section that is spiral shaped. The distal curved part of this lead has a length, taper, and curvature such that after implantation, the electrode array is implanted approximately one spiral turn in the scala tympani duct. This lead also can include a stylet insertion channel that extends into the distal curved section of the lead and also part of the slightly curved (substantially straight) lead section. The stylet insertion channel can be partly comprised of a Teflon tubing. It is emphasized that the tubing specifically does not extend into the aggressively curved, distal part of the lead, because if that were so, this curved part would become unacceptably stiff and non-compliant. It is also emphasized that the stylet channel continues into the distal curved section of the lead, but this section of the channel is formed from the carrier material itself. The Teflon tubing forms only that part of the stylet insertion channel that is the substantially straight or slightly curved section of the lead where additional stiffness is desired. Thus, use of the Teflon tubing contributes advantageously to a lead having differential compliance along its length.
Another, second embodiment of the cochlear lead is suited for deep, lateral (outer) wall placement in the scala tympani. With this embodiment, the distal section of the lead is hooked shape. This hooked, curved portion is comparatively longer than the lead embodiment for medial placement, in order to allow the second lead embodiment to be implanted into the scala tympani between about 1 to 2 turns. Because of the hook shape, when the second embodiment of the lead is implanted, the lateral side of the lead contacts the lateral or outer wall of the scala tympani. Such lateral contact may facilitate the deeper, up to 2 turn, implantation of the electrode array.
As an additional feature of the second cochlear lead embodiment, the very tip of the tapered, curved hook may be constructed to be "super-flexible." The super-flexible tip is short enough such that only a subset of the electrode contacts are actually part of this super-flexible tip. The super-flexible tip is achieved by (a) making the thickness of the tip very thin relative to the other part of the curved hook and (b) by excluding any part of the stylet insertion channel within this tip, since including a channel would necessarily require too thick a carrier and prevent super-flexibility. The super-flexible tip permits the lead to easily conform to the curvature of the scala tympani as the lead tip is being inserted and also to apply light pressure to the lateral wall of the scala tympani in order to minimize injury to the wall during insertion of the electrode array.
In another aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing a stimulating lead having a pre-curved tip is provided. This method comprises: (a) attaching a plurality of inert electrode contacts onto a chemically dissolvable strip substrate having a first, distal end and a second, proximal end; (b) coupling each electrode contact to a conductor wire to create an electrode array assembly; (c) attaching the first, distal end of substrate to a revolving dowel, which dowel is integrated into a mold and inside a cavity; (d) attaching the proximal, second end of the substrate to a restraint which applies tension to the electrode array assembly; (e) turning the dowel to create a predetermined curvature on the distal end of the electrode array assembly; (f) delivering a body-compatible carrier material into the cavity and around the electrode array assembly to create a carrier/covering; (g) releasing the formed lead from the mold; and (h) applying a weak acid and heat to the chemically active substrate to dissolve away the substrate and expose the inert, electrode contact on the surface of the lead. The method described can produce a lead with an electrode array having a curved tip with elastic, memory properties.
The process above may be modified to incorporate a stylet insertion channel in the body of the lead. This is accomplished by inserting between step (e) and (f), the step (e1): placing a mandrel into the cavity, oriented approximately parallel to the electrode array assembly, wherein the proximal end of the mandrel is situated to escape coverage by injected carrier material. Further, anytime after step (g), another step is added: (g1) pulling the mandrel out of the carrier to create a stylet insertion channel with a channel opening on the lead. In addition, after the mandrel is pulled out, the opening of the channel opening may be covered with an overmold having a slit opening therethrough to allow access into the stylet channel. This process can be used to produce a pre-curved lead having a stylet channel concurrently in the portion of the substantially straight or slightly curved section of the lead as well as the aggressively curved section of the lead.
As an alternative embodiment of the above method, the stylet channel may include a thin-wall Teflon tubing. This is accomplished by inserting between step (e) and (f) the steps: (e1) placing a mandrel inside the lumen of a thin-walled Teflon tubing; and (e2) placing the combination of the Teflon tubing with the inserted mandrel inside the tubing into the mold cavity, the combination oriented approximately parallel to the electrode array assembly, wherein the proximal end of the mandrel is situated to escape coverage by the delivered carrier material. Also any time after step (g), the following step can take place: (g1) pulling the mandrel out of the Teflon tubing to create the stylet insertion channel. While the mandrel may be made from various materials, one option is to use a mandrel that is made of Teflon. After the Teflon mandrel has been pulled out of the formed lead, leaving the Teflon tube incorporated into the lead, an overmold, which has a slit opening, may be attached over the opening of the stylet insertion channel. This latter embodiment produces a differentially compliant pre-curved lead by employing the Teflon� tubing as a stiffener.
The above-described manufacturing process can produce a pre-curved lead having a stylet channel extending from the curved, distal end to the substantially straight section of the lead. Again, it is emphasized that the Teflon tube comprises only a part of the total length of the stylet insertion channel. That is, the tube occupies only the substantially straight or slightly curved lead section and not the distal, aggressively curved section.
The presence of the Teflon tubing is advantageous as it presents less friction and is more resistant to tears than the carrier material which is often silicone or polyurethane. An insertion stylet can be more easily inserted into and withdrawn from the Teflon tubing with the reduced possibility of a wall tear in the channel. A second important benefit provided by the Teflon tubing is that it provides differential stiffness to the lead. The distal, tapered, curved portion of the lead can be compliant and gentle while being inserted into the scala tympani, while the substantially straight section of the lead is made stiffer by the presence of the Teflon and thereby facilitates the directional placement of the lead near the target cochlea.
In another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for implanting a stimulating electrode having an insertion stylet channel with a channel opening on the lead body. The method comprises: (a) implanting the lead using the stylet; (b) withdrawing the stylet from the lead; and (c) capping the insertion stylet channel opening. As described, the channel opening may be capped by attaching an overmold with a slit that is sized to permit through access for an insertion stylet. The slit may be subsequently sealed with a pin plug or with a malleable ring encircling the slit.
As yet another aspect of the present invention, a lead system is described comprising: a cochlear lead, a pin plug, and an insertion tool. The cochlear lead includes: a flexible carrier having a proximal end and a distal end; a stylet insertion channel incorporated into the flexible carrier; and an electrode array placed on the distal lead end. The pin plug for capping the insertion stylet has a head and tail pin with a curvature in the tail pin. The insertion tool has a first end and second end. The first end of the insertion tool has a pin plug holding channel that accommodates and holds the tail pin with a friction fit to help insert the head of the pin plug into the lead to cap the stylet insertion channel.
It is thus a feature of the present invention to provide a lead design having a pre-curved electrode array having an elastic characteristic which tends to restore the electrode array to its pre-curved shape after implantation.
It is another feature of the invention to provide specific embodiments of the lead which have compliant electrode arrays that are gentle to the walls of the scala tympani, whether the electrode array is intended to engage the medial or lateral wall of the scala tympani.
It is yet another feature of the invention to provide a differentially compliant lead having a stiff, substantially straight section and a more compliant distal, curved section.
It is a further feature of the invention to provide a lead having a stylet insertion channel and devices for sealing the opening of the stylet channel.
The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings wherein:
Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings.
The following description is of the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims.
The cochlear electrode of the present invention may be used with an implantable multi-channel pulse generator, e.g., an implantable cochlear stimulator (ICS) of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,603,726, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety or with other suitable stimulators. It is to be understood, however, that although a cochlear lead is used as an exemplary context, the lead of the present invention, including the method of manufacturing, may be applied to other medical applications.
Some representative dimensions of this lead 150 can be as follows. The substantially straight section 30 can be about 15 millimeters long. This substantially straight section 30 combined with the curved electrode array portion 70 which partially overlaps, may be about 25 millimeters long. The width of the electrode array section 70 may be about 3.0 millimeters in diameter plus or minus 0.5 millimeters. Proximal lead portion 110 is connected to the thin lead section 45 and may be variable in length.
The profile of the lead 150 along its length can vary, as shown in
The plurality of conductor wires 202 are coupled to the electrode contacts 200 in the electrode array 70 and these conductor wires extend through the lead to the proximal lead portion 110 and may be terminated in a proximal connector (not shown). The embodiment of the electrode array 70 shown has sixteen electrode contacts 200, each numbered from #1 to #16. Electrode contacts numbered #10 through #16 are within the substantially straight (or slightly curved) section 30 of the lead, while the electrode contacts #1 through #9 are within the aggressively curved section of the lead.
The insulative covering/carrier 60 which forms the body of the lead and provides a covering over the conductor wires 202 can be made from silicone, polyurethanes or other body-compatible, polymeric insulating materials. The type and hardness of the insulative carrier 60 can be selected to provide a specific, desired compliance to the lead body in combination with the compliance of the conductor wires and choice of structures incorporated into the lead 150, e.g., the stylet insertion channel 40.
An important aspect of the present invention which determines the lead's mechanical characteristic is that the carrier/covering material is molded to assume a specific pre-curved shape having memory. Therefore, the natural resting position of the lead has a curved, distal lead tip. When the distal tip is straightened by inserting a relatively stiff stylet into the stylet insertion channel 40, the carrier/covering 60 in the distal curved tip as well as the slightly curved section 30 of the lead 150 stores elastic energy which exerts a contractive force tending to restore the lead to its originally molded curved shape. The lead embodiment in
The electrode array, when implanted, may turn inside the cochlea from between about 1.5 to about 2.0 turns. The distal lead tip which has electrode contacts #1 to #5 is very narrow and tapered. This particular tapered shape accommodates the tight curvature and narrower passageway proceeding into the duct of the scala tympani, particularly in the second turn. In addition, the tapered lead tip containing electrode contacts #1 to #5 is "super-flexible", in part, owing to the thinness of the tip and, moreover, by selecting an extremely compliant carrier material and further by utilizing a compliant, zigzag conductor wire. The overall curvature of the electrode array in
In use, the electrode array shown in
Referring to both
As further shown in
The zigzagged conductor wires described resist bending fractures better than a straight conductor wire. At the same time, in combination with a soft, compliant carrier/covering, the zigzagged wires permit the lead to exhibit higher compliance compared to a lead using other conductor configurations such as coils or straight conductor wires. This higher compliance advantageously allows the curved electrode array 70, as shown in
The Teflon tubing 41 provides a second important advantage: it provides added stiffness to the lead 150 to maintain the substantially straight or slightly curved section 30 from buckling during insertion of the electrode array section 70 into the cochlea. The tapered, curved portion of the electrode array which is not stiffened by the Teflon tube, however, remains desirably compliant as the insertion stylet is inserted into the stylet channel and as the electrode array is pushed off the stylet. The substantially straight (or slightly curved) section 30 of the lead is advantageously more stiff, since it needs to remain straight during implantation. Because it does not enter the cochlea, the substantially straight section 30 does not need to be as compliant as the highly curved section of the lead. The Teflon tubing 41 thereby advantageously provides a differential compliance for the different sections of the lead 150.
The slitted overmold 75 helps to keep unwanted bacteria from entering the stylet channel after the lead/electrode array has been implanted. If the stylet channel opening 50 is not covered, there is an increased chance that the stylet insertion channel 40 may become a site for bacterial growth, particularly since the open stylet channel may easily allow entry of bacteria but cannot be reached by the body's cellular, immune defense, i.e., white cells. There is a remote possibility that bacteria that has grown in the stylet channel will escape into the cochlea through small pores or fissures in the wall of the carrier/covering. The use of an overmold to seal the opening of the stylet channel can help forestall this occurrence.
As shown in
Most designs of cochlear leads and connectors are made by forming a polymer carrier such as silicone or polyurethane over an assembly of electrode contacts 200. The electrode contacts 200 which actually make contact with the stimulated tissue are generally made from a biocompatible, electrically conductive material such as an electrically conductive, relatively inert metal, e.g., platinum or a platinum/iridium alloy. The electrode contacts 200 are located in a controlled position in reference to the surface of the lead carrier, with a specified surface portion of the electrode contact left exposed for contacting the body tissue to be stimulated. Disadvantageously, making such electrode arrays can be extremely difficult, especially when the electrode contacts are very small and when a large number of electrode contacts are used, as is the case with a cochlear lead. One problem encountered in the fabrication of such electrodes is reliably holding the array of electrode contacts in the desired and stable position when welding the conductive wires to the contacts and when molding the carrier over the conductive wires. A further problem is to ensure that the portion of the electrode contact surface which is to be exposed is not covered by the carrier when the lead is molded.
As provided in
Attached to the metal foil substrate 100, the electrode contacts 200 remain in a desired and stable position allowing the conductor wires 202 to be easily connected to the contacts 200 and, subsequently, allowing the insulative polymer carrier to be molded over the conductor wires 202. After the molding process is completed, the metal foil is chemically etched away using a mixture of diluted acids, such as HNO3 or HCl, heated to 90� Celsius. The electrode contacts and polymer carrier are largely inert to the acid and hence remain unaffected.
As seen in
If a Teflon tubing is desired as part of the stylet insertion channel, the combination of the Teflon tubing 41 with a Teflon mandrel 42 inserted within the tubing 41 is used, as shown in
The insertion apparatus arm 430 abuts against bone 450 hence limiting the depth of initial insertion of the electrode array and stylet tip 410 into the cochlea and thereby avoiding possible injury to the wall of the scala tympani. It can be seen with this particular implantation method that insertion and retraction of the stylet can be greatly facilitated by employing an insertion channel formed by an integrated Teflon tubing, since such a channel will exhibit superior abrasion resistance and low friction. In addition, the added stiffness provided by the Teflon tubing facilitates the initial placement of the lead 150 or 150′ at the entrance of the scala tympani 420.
The lead design disclosed in
While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means of specific embodiments and applications thereof, numerous modifications and variations could be made thereto by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.
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