Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure involve computing environments that provide third-party access-control support. For instance, an access-control computing system can access a secure identity repository having role history data from various contributor computing systems. The access-control computing system can compare an identified set of roles with a set of roles described by role history data for a target entity. The access-control computing system can determine, from the comparison, whether the target entity poses a security risk based on inconsistencies between the sets of roles, durations associated with the roles, or both. The access-control computing system can provide a client computing system with a dynamic access-control data structure that is generated based on the comparison. The dynamic access-control data structure allows the client computing system to output the security assessment to an end user or to otherwise facilitate further security measures with respect to the target entity.

Abstract: Salt compositions with reduced caking tendency and improved clean label acceptability comprise a blend of dry ingredients comprising a salt selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, iodized sodium chloride, iodized potassium chloride and mixtures thereof; and a dry particulate flow agent selected from the group consisting of flour, corn bran, soy fiber, inulin, whey, casein, starch, sugar, protein, lecithin, citrus fiber and mixtures thereof. The salt compositions are especially useful for use in food preparation, manufacture, and seasoning.

Abstract: A confectionary chew is described that includes (a) a sweetener and (b) a fiber blend that includes at least 1% by weight short-chain inulin and at least 1% by weight a source of dietary fiber other than short-chain inulin. Processes for preparing confectionary chews including short chain inulin and another source of dietary fiber are also described.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a peptide of SEQ ID NO:2 and its variants that blocks stretch-activated ion channels. The peptide, designated as GsMTx-4, is present in the venom of the spider Grammostola spatulata. The present invention also discloses a method of purifying the peptide GsMTx-4 from the spider venom and a method for inhibition of stretch activated ion channels in a cell. The cDNA sequence encoding the GsMTx-4 is also disclosed. This peptide and its variants can be used for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for consolidating and distributing information. Implementation of system functionalities for both restricted local and unrestricted system-wide uses are permitted. Open standards for hardware, software and firmware components and standardized medical codes, definitions and formats are supported. The preferred embodiment of the invention provides an integrated health care system. The invention can also be used to allow secure access to Social Security, annuity, retirement account, and benefit information, allowing individuals a unified view of their benefit and payment status. A centralized host maintains, consolidates, and redistributes information generated at all networked locations. Information is electronically transferred among the system components to link an individual's local records to those stored remotely. The individual information device, centralized host computer, and any other computers or networks linked to the system can therefore be automatically updated.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for consolidating and distributing information. Implementation of system functionalities for both restricted local and unrestricted system-wide uses are permitted. Open standards for hardware, software and firmware components and standardized medical codes, definitions and formats are supported. The preferred embodiment of the invention provides an integrated health care system. The invention can also be used to allow secure access to Social Security, annuity, retirement account, and benefit information, allowing individuals a unified view of their benefit and payment status. A centralized host maintains, consolidates, and redistributes information generated at all networked locations. Information is electronically transferred among the system components to link an individual's local records to those stored remotely. The individual information device, centralized host computer, and any other computers or networks linked to the system can therefore be automatically updated.

Abstract: A jewelry pendant device includes a vertical square stem having an open loop at an upper end and a retainer at the lower end. A plurality of decorative beads is threaded on the stem to fill the space between the retainer and the open loop. Releasing the retainer permits interchange of the beads to customize the pendant for the wearer. The beads may be cubical and may have letters or symbols on the faces thereofo. The open loop may be attached to ear hooks or clips, bracelets, necklaces, pins or the like to permit the pendant to be worn.