Highly mutable β-lactamases are responsible for the ability of Gram-negative bacteria to resist β-lactam antibiotics. Using site-directed mutagenesis technique, we have produced in vitro a number of recombinant analogs of naturally occurring TEM-type β-lactamases, bearing the secondary substitution Q39K and key mutations related to the extended-spectrum (E104K, R164S) and inhibitor-resistant (M...

The standard real–options model predicts that increased uncertainty discourages investment. When projects are large and take time to build, however, that prediction can be reversed. We investigate the investment/uncertainty relationship empirically using historical data on opening dates of new U.S. copper mines — large, irreversible projects with substantial construction lags. Both the timing o...

This article describes three essential elements of an effective post-2012 international cli-mate policy architecture: a framework to ensure that key industrialized and developingnations are involved in differentiated but meaningful ways, an emphasis on an extended timepath for emissions targets, and the inclusion of flexible market-based policy instruments tokeep costs down and ...

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is currently considered the best overall index of kidney function. The possibility that laboratories might routinely report an estimated GFR has become practically feasible with the development of a formula, the ‘‘four-variable’’ This position paper was commissioned by IFCC, but it does not carry any official IFCC endorsement. IFCC Sections printed in J. Cli...

Multiple choice tests are widely applied to assess students’ knowledge in science education. This study aimed at assessing the validity and reliability of Science Multiple-choice Test Malaysia. The items for this test were formulated by researcher together with a panel teachers head department close reference Secondary School Standard Curriculum (KSSM) syllabus. consists 50 multiple-choice four...

Most mitochondrial proteins are synthesized in the cytosol as precursor proteins containing an N-terminal targeting peptide and are imported into mitochondria through the import machineries, the translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane (TOM) and the translocase of the inner mitochondrial membrane (TIM). The N-terminal targeting peptide of precursor proteins destined for the mitochondrial...

The holder of a petroleum exploration concession has an investment option until the expiration date fixed by the governmental agency, in some countries these rights can be extended by additional cost. The value of these rights and the optimal investment timing are calculated by solving a stochastic optimal control problem of an American call option with extendible maturities. The uncertainty of...

Accurate serum creatinine measurements in glomerular filtration rate estimation (eGFR) using equations are critical to ongoing global public health efforts to improve the diagnosis and treatment of chronic kidney disease. There is now an ongoing activity to promote worldwide standardization of methods to determine creatinine together with the introduction of a revised eGFR equation appropriate ...