Abstract: We have generated a 3D model of the glycoprotein B (gB) of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) to design candidate stabilizing mutations that increase the stability of the prefusion state essential for an effective EBV gB based vaccine. Provided herein are engineered polypeptides derived from the EBV gB, which include an altered EBV gB ectodomain that has modifications relative to the native EBV gB ectodomain that stabilize a prefusion conformation of the polypeptides. In various aspects, the modifications are amino acid substitutions to generate pairs of cysteine amino acid residues, preferably positioned to connect different domains of the poly peptide or different copies of the polypeptide in a trimeric or multimeric conformation via formation of disulfide bonds during protein expression. In additional aspects, the modifications and/or the engineered polypeptides do not contain pairs of cysteine amino acid residues that may form disulfide bonds in a postfusion conformation.

Abstract: The pet entertainment apparatus comprises an open three dimensional framework which is covered with releasably secured material configured to provide a hammock within a top of the apparatus and an interior compartment covered by swingable flaps which depend from the top in areas between rope covered upstanding legs which elevate the top above a base of the apparatus.

Abstract: A convertible hinge preparation assembly is mounted in hinge cut-outs of a steel door frame or door. The convertible hinge preparation assembly is capable of mounting either regular weight hinges or heavy weight hinges. A plurality of pips are provided for positioning a regular weight hinge. The pips are removed by grinding or drilling when it is desired to mount a heavy weight hinge. In standard weight hinge applications, selective pips, or portions thereof, may also be removed to provide additional adjustment of the installed door and frame assembly to achieve desired operating clearances. The pips are formed by punching the hinge reinforcing member.