Phenoxyethanol: protein preservative for taxonomists

Pieces of chicken heart or skeletal muscle were placed in a dilute solution of the antimicrobial agent 2-phenoxyethanol and stored at room temperature. Under these conditions, the serum albumin, lactate dehydrogenase, and malate dehydrogenase in these tissues survived in easily detectable amounts for at least 2 weeks. The surviving proteins appeared to be identical with those of fresh tissues in physical, catalytic, and immunological properties. Phenoxyethanol also preserved heart and muscle proteins of representatives of other vertebrate classes. Tissue samples collected in the analysis by biochemical taxonomists.     

Chemical Scent Constituents in the Urine of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes L.) During the Winter Season

Four volatile chemical compounds have been identified as apparently unique constituents in urines of red foxes (both sexes) during the winter season when mating occurs. Quinaldine was found only in male fox urine. Several other compounds identified are found in other species also. Some or all of these compounds may function in olfactory communication in the red fox.