Abstract: Using the methods of the invention, an elastomeric polymer is dissolved in a suitable solvent, cast in one of the membrane casting techniques using a phase inversion technique, and immersed in a coagulation bath comprised of suitable solvent/non-solvent pairs (e.g., THF/water and ethanol). Asymmetric membranes having a dense discriminating layer and a thicker porous support layer suitable for application in pervaporation processes were obtained in a single step. An increase of the polymer concentration in the casting solution gives a more dense layer. When cast as formed using the methods of the invention, the membrane obtained is an integrally skinned membrane comprising a thin, dense separation layer over a porous support layer (asymmetric membrane) formed in a single casting operation. The resulting membrane is homogenous with respect to chemical composition.

Abstract: For analysis of small quatities of target analytes in an environment, the gas flow can be delivered to a suitably fast analyzer and their concentration determined in a time period whose duration is dependent on the analyte, its concentration and the phase separation properties. A device having a sorbent bed that is essentially concentric with a passage way containing thermal fluid is used to concentrate the target analyte.

Abstract: Multiple species of fungi in an environment can be identified in one sample by extracting and purifying fungal DNA in the sample. PCR is then performed followed by cloning the amplifed DNA and transforming the DNA into bacteria for purposes of growing the organisms. Colonies of the growth containing transformed bacteria are then chosen on the basis of coloration. Plasmids from the chosen colonies were then purified and the DNA is analyzed to identify fungi present in the sample.

Abstract: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has an immune response regulating effect in vertebrates to protect from morbid effect of infection and immune suppressive therapies. DHEA is also effective for use in treatment of alopecia. Protection results from a generalized host response.