Abstract: Methods are described for the production of neurons or neuronal progenitor cells. Multipotent neural stem cells are proliferated in the preset of growth factors and erythropoietin which induces the generation of neuronal progenitor cells. The erythropoietin may be exogenously applied to the multipotent neural stem cells or alternatively, the cells can be subjected to hypoxic insult which induces the cells to express erythropoietin.

Abstract: Pipe handling apparatus to move tubulars from a horizontal position on a piperack adjacent a well bore to a vertical position over the wall center or mousehole. A bicep arm assembly is pivotally connected to a base plate. A forearm assembly is pivotally attached to the distant end of the bicep arm assembly and a gripper head is pivotally connected to the distant end of the forearm assembly. The bicep arm assembly is mounted to the structure of the drill rig.

Abstract: A pipe handling method to move the tubulars used from a horizontal position on a piperack adjacent the well bore to a vertical position over the wall centre or a mousehole which utilizes bicep and forearm assemblies and a gripper head for attachment to a tubular. The path of the tubular being moved is close to the conventional path of the tubular utilizing known cable transfer techniques so as to allow access to the drill floor through the V-door of the drill rig.

Abstract: A drilling derrick assembly is described which provides for the elevation above ground level of the assembly's working floor which supports both the mast and the drawworks. Prior to erection, the elevatable equipment floor is carried on a supporting substructure, and a mast is pivotally connected to the elevatable floor in a reclining position. When the assembly is erected, the mast is pivotally raised and attached in place, and other rigging steps can be carried out. Through the use of an integrally mounted sling and winch assembly or, alternatively, through operation of the assembly's traveling block, the entire equipment floor is elevated to the desired level.

Abstract: A cantilevered drilling structure including a base unit having a side positionable generally adjacent a well head, and a drilling rig mast assembly positioned generally above and supported by the base unit. The base unit has a cantilever member extending out from its side, spaced from the ground, and having an outer portion spaced from the side. A telescoping leg extends down from the outer portion and is spaced from the side such that the side and the leg are positionable on opposite sides of a well head. The telescoping leg is movable between a lower support position and a higher raised position high enough to pass over flow lines when the drilling structure is moved along the well row. A skidding floor mechanism moves the drilling rig mast assembly along the base unit between a drilling position over the cantilever member when the telescoping leg has been extended and a moving position closer to the center of gravity of the base unit.