The erasable Western blot

A method for successfully removing primary and secondary antibodies from nitrocellulose blots while preserving the originally immobilized polypeptides was developed. Polypeptides were separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and electrophoretically transferred to nitrocellulose. Nonspecific binding sites were blocked with 5% (w/v) nonfat dried milk. After blots were reacted sequentially with antibodies directed against the antigen of interest and with radiolabeled secondary antibody, a 10-min wash in 5% (w/v) milk was required prior to drying and autoradiography. A 30-min incubation at 70 degrees C in 2% (w/v) sodium dodecyl sulfate containing 100 mM beta-mercaptoethanol quantitatively removed the antibodies and allowed reuse of the blot. A modification of this method similarly allowed reuse of Western blots when proteins were immobilized on nylon. Potential applications and limitations of this method are discussed.     

Paradoxes in Western Creativity

Statistical data, showing percentages of creativity in the various arts and philosophy among different nations during the history of Western civilization, can now be presented. This covers the ground quantitatively which Kroeber's Configurations of Culture Growth covered qualitatively. The study not only reveals different patterns among nations, but indicates the nature of the problem to be overcome if mankind is to achieve a universal maximum release of creativity for all in the future.     

Reproductive strategies of Western AustralianApiaceae

Studies on the floral biology, vegetative multiplication and breeding systems of 70 taxa of Western AustralianApiaceae were made. Autogamy, self compatibility and generalized pollination are widespread.