Abstract: A striped dentrifrice stable color bleeding, wherein at least one component contains a colorant entrained in the matrix of substantially non-fracturable, partially cross-linked melamine-urea-formaldehyde condensation polymer particles, whereby on storage the colorant does not bleed any color into any other dentifrice component. The dentifrice may also contain a formaldehyde scavenger to bind-up any formaldehyde released from the particles.

Abstract: An improved system for database query processing by means of "query decomposition" intercepts database queries prior to processing by a database management system ("DBMS"). The system decomposes at least selected queries to generate multiple subqueries for application, in parallel, to the DBMS, in lieu of the intercepted query. Responses by the DBMS to the subqueries are assembled by the system to generate a final response. The system also provides improved methods and apparatus for storage and retrieval of records from a database utilizing the DBMS's cluster storage and index retrieval facilitates, in combination with a smaller-than-usual hash bucket size.

Abstract: A system for shifting gears in an auxiliary transmission is provided. The system enables shifting between gears of an auxiliary transmission without stopping the vehicle and without requiring a clutch between drive-line components. The system is activated by the operator while the vehicle is moving and includes safety features that preclude downshifting when the vehicle is traveling above a predetermined speed. The system is fully compatible with automatic main transmissions. An electronic control system monitors the rotational velocities or frequencies of the input and output shafts for clutchless shifting while the vehicle is moving.