Abstract: A method produces a hairpin single-stranded RNA molecule capable of inhibiting expression of a target gene, including the step of reacting a first single-stranded oligo-RNA molecule represented by formula (I) with a second single-stranded oligo-RNA molecule represented by formula (II) in a mixed solvent including a buffer solution and a hydrophilic organic solvent in the presence of a dehydration condensation agent: 5?-Xc-Lx1 . . . (I) and Lx2-X—Y-Ly-Yc-3? . . . (II), wherein the dehydration condensation agent is selected from the group consisting of a triazine-based dehydration condensation agent, a uronium-based dehydration condensation agent including an N-hydroxy nitrogen-containing aromatic ring structure, a carbodiimide-based dehydration condensation agent, a 2-halopyridinium-based dehydration condensation agent, and a formamidinium-based dehydration condensation agent.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the production of an alkyl glycoside excellent in hue, which comprises (1) reacting a sugar with alcohol to obtain an alkyl glycoside reaction product containing an unreacted higher alcohol, (2) reacting the resulting product with a metal/hydrogen complex represented by formula (I)M(BH.sub.4).sub.x (I)whereinM is an alkali metal, Ca, Zn, or (CH.sub.3).sub.4 N; and x is 1 when M is an alkali metal or (CH.sub.3).sub.4 N and x is 2 when M is Ca or Zn;(3) separating the resulting reaction mixture into the alkyl glycoside and the unreacted higher alcohol, and (4) decomposing the remaining metal/hydrogen complex with an acid.

Abstract: A process for the production of an alkyl glycoside or an aqueous solution thereof is disclosed, comprising the steps of (1) reacting a sugar with alcohol to obtain an alkyl glycoside reaction product containing unreacted alcohol, (2) establishing a moving liquid film of the alkyl glycoside reaction product and (3) contacting the moving liquid film with steam or an inert gas at a temperature of from 50.degree. to 200.degree. C. The alkyl glycoside or aqueous solution thus obtained contains little unreacted alcohol and is excellent in hue and odor.