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To obtain a transparent and effective solution of p-hydroxybenzoic acid esters (parabens), the use of 2-hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrins (2-HP-beta-CyDs) as solubilizers with different degrees of substitution (D.S.) was surveyed. 2-HP-beta-CyDs significantly increased the aqueous solubility of four kinds of parabens (methyl < ethyl < propyl < butyl esters), where the solubilizing ability decreased with an increase in the D.S. of the 2-hydroxypropyl group in beta-CyD. The antimicrobial activity of the parabens tended to decrease by complexation with 2-HP-beta-CyDs. However, the activity could be maintained by lengthening the alkyl chain of the parabens. 1H- and 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism spectroscopic studies suggest that the hydrophobic alkyl moiety of butyl paraben is preferably included in the cavity, and the phenol group extrudes from the cavity. The present results suggest that a suitable combination of 2-HP-beta-CyDs and hydrophobic, longer alkyl parabens is useful for the preservation of liquid formulations.

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Several species of the ant genus Diacamma reproduce through mated workers (gamergates). Such gamergates have no wings and therefore are unable to conduct nuptial flight. Instead they perform a sexual calling behavior by standing outside the nest and rubbing the tibiae of their hindleg over the surface of the arched gaster. In a series of exclusion experiments we demonstrate that secretions from the metatibial gland are the most important component in making the virgin female attractive to the males.

No abstract