Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for organizing data in a database in a set-oriented manner. Data is organized by linking data in the form of key-value pairs stored in storage media of the database to corresponding key-value pair identifiers. A set having a corresponding set identifier is then associated with one or more of the key-value pair identifiers where the set includes the stored key-value pairs linked to the key-value pair identifiers.

Abstract: A string dampener for a musical instrument is disclosed for dampening extraneous string noise caused by sympathetic vibrations. The dampener includes an attachment apparatus that releaseably attaches the dampener to a portion of a stringed instrument. The dampener also includes dampening material to dampen string vibrations. An arm section is included that is rotatably coupled to the attachment apparatus and has the dampening material disposed on at least a portion of the arm section. The arm section is used to selectively engage and disengage contact of the dampening material with one or more strings of the stringed instrument by rotation with respect to the attachment apparatus. The string dampener affords quick attachment and detachment from a stringed instrument as well as easy engagement and disengagement of the dampener with the strings of an instrument with a requisite amount of pressure on the strings to effect proper dampening of sympathetic vibrations.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for varying valve lift in an internal combustion engine are disclosed. The apparatus include a rocker arm having an elongate aperture and a shaft configured to pass through the aperture. The height of the shaft with respect to the aperture is variable to effect different rocker arm ratios when in combination with a fixed fulcrum point. When the shaft is located in a lower position with respect to the aperture in the rocker arm, the rocker arm pivots around the rocker arm shaft producing full valve lift. Alternatively, when the rocker arm shaft is positioned at a height above the lower position, an upper surface of the rocker arm becomes engageable to varying degrees with the fixed fulcrum point, allowing the rocker arm to pivot around the fixed fulcrum point, thereby reducing the rocker arm ratio, and corresponding valve lift dependent on the rocker arm shaft position. Corresponding methods are also disclosed.