Abstract: Polypeptides with tubulin acetyltransferase activity are described, as are nucleic acids encoding said polypeptides, and methods of use. The invention further provides enhancers and inhibitors of tubulin acetyltransferase activity, as well as cells having altered tubulin transferase activity.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for calculating and generating a predetermined payment obligation. A hypothetical portfolio of securities is selected having an initial value. A financial instrument is issued that references the hypothetical portfolio, the financial instrument having a fixed term. A guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit is deducted from a net asset value of the hypothetical portfolio on a periodic basis for the fixed term. The net asset value of the hypothetical portfolio is determined to be zero if the net asset value of the hypothetical portfolio falls below a predetermined amount of funds. An adjustment in the number of securities in the hypothetical portfolio is calculated with a computer on a periodic basis according to an algorithm, the algorithm taking into account at least one of a prevailing market value of the securities in the hypothetical portfolio and a net present value of an obligation to deduct the predetermined amount of funds until the end of the fixed term.