Abstract: A free point tool has at least one sensor to measure deformation of a stuck conduit in a borehole. A set of anchors is located adjacent to and on each side of the sensor. The anchors include anchor arms that move from a stowed position to an extended position. Each of the anchor arms has a pad, which pad has a contact face. The contact face is structured and arranged to engage the conduit. The pad is coupled to the respective anchor arm in an articulating manner, such as by a pin joint or a ball and socket joint. The pad can be easily coupled to or disconnected from the arm. This allows the pad to be selected for the downhole conditions, including conduit physical characteristics and environmental conditions downhole. The anchors also include cam arms coupled between the anchor arms and an actuator. There are provided at least two sets of anchor linkages of cam arms and anchor arms so as to adapt to the conduit inside diameter.

Abstract: The invention describes a method for extracting DNA from a sample. It involves contacting a sample with a separation reagent which permits differentiated solvation of DNA and protein. By adding a gel polymer, such as a silical gel polymer to the mixture of sample and separating reagent followed by agitation via, e.g., centrifugation, the DNA and protein are separated, with the gel acting as a block to prevent contamination of the DNA phase by the protein. Higher yields of DNA are obtained as compared to methodologies where the gel is not used. Additionally, the problems associated with the physical contact of the solvents, which are frequently carcinogens, are avoided. Also taught are kits which can be used in connection with the inventive method.

Abstract: The invention describes a method for extracting DNA from a sample. It involves contacting a sample with a separation reagent which permits differentiated solvation of DNA and protein. By adding a gel polymer, such as a polyester gel polymer to the mixture of sample and separating reagent followed by agitation via, e.g., centrifugation, the DNA and protein are separated, with the gel acting as a block to prevent contamination of the DNA phase by the protein. Higher yields of DNA are obtained as compared to methodologies where the gel is not used. Additionally, the problems associated with the physical contact of the solvents, which are frequently carcinogens, are avoided. Also taught are kits which can be used in connection with the inventive method.