Abstract: The present invention provides for methods of treating and slowing the onset of heart failure. The inventors have determined that myosin binding to unphosphorylated Myosin Binding Protein C (MyBP-C) plays a key role in the diminution of cardiac contractile force and frequency in heart failure. The present invention provides peptide inhibitors of the MyBP-C/myosin interaction, thereby increasing both cardiac contractile force and frequency in the failing heart, as well as in patients not yet exhibiting frank heart failure.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods of treating and slowing the onset of heart failure. The inventors have determined that myosin binding to unphosphorylated Myosin Binding Protein C (MyBP-C) plays a key role in the diminution of cardiac contractile force and frequency in heart failure. The present invention provides peptide inhibitors of the MyBP-C/myosin interaction, thereby increasing both cardiac contractile force and frequency in the failing heart, as well as in patients not yet exhibiting frank heart failure.

Abstract: The invention provides a transgenic mouse that is a model for myocardial function. Also provided are methods for using the transgenic mouse model to study heart muscle, cardiac disease and identify compounds effective in treating or preventing cardiac disease.

Abstract: Method of increasing the strength of contraction in the mammalian heart muscle by administering to the mammal an effective amount of an activated Vitamin D compound, i.e. a 1.alpha.-hydroxylated Vitamin D compound which binds with the Vitamin D receptor and produces a positive inotropic effect in the heart muscle. The activated Vitamin D compound may be given as a means to prevent myocardial failure or to treat myocardial failure.

Abstract: Method of increasing the strength of contraction in the mammalian heart muscle by administering to the mammal an effective amount of an activated Vitamin D compound, i.e. a 1.alpha.-hydroxylated Vitamin D compound which binds with the Vitamin D receptor and produces a positive inotropic effect in the heart muscle. The activated Vitamin D compound may be given as a means to treat myocardial failure.

Abstract: To connect the respective rear light circuits of a towing vehicle and a trailer, the conventional rear light bulbs of a towing vehicle are replaced with otherwise conventional rear light bulbs, each modified by having extending electrical wires passing from its base contacts upwardly in its conventional round base, while at the same time passing through a depression groove of its otherwise conventional glass envelope, and thereafter freely extending a selected distance for attachment to the rear light circuits of a trailer. These otherwise conventional rear light bulbs with their extending electrical wires are made by a method centering on the selective heating of a portion of the glass of an initially conventional glass envelope to create on its exterior the weathertight depression groove extending for a length slightly longer than the depth of its round base.