Abstract: The disclosure is related to a system for storing and managing hierarchical relationships in a data set. The data set has a plurality of nodes, including root nodes having trees and subtrees, the tree and subtrees including parent, sibling, and child nodes. Each node in the data set has bound values and the bound values of the root nodes are fixed and of equal width. The system further includes processor on a server constructed and arranged to execute a series of steps for optimizing the data set. The processor constructed and arranged to recalculate bound values for updated nodes, sibling nodes and associated subtrees when nodes are updated.

Abstract: A device for creating imaginative structures from used beverage containers and like cylindrical refuse having an annular belt member having a plurality of axially extending attachment means integrally formed on the outer surface thereof in spaced generally parallel relationship to each other.

Abstract: This invention is for a process for production of flour from Jerusalem artichoke tubers. The tubers are reduced to particles having an average surface to volume ratio of not less than about 25 cm.sup.2 to 1 cm.sup.3 and the particles are exposed to water acidified to a pH of not greater than about 4. Thereafter the particles are subjected to a series of pressings at increasing pressures ending in a final pressing at a pressure of not less than about 6 atmospheres, gauge wherein between each pressing the pressure is relaxed and the particles loosened. The particles are washed with water at least once after exposure to the acidified water and prior to the final pressing. After the final pressing the particles are dried at a temperature not exceeding about 200.degree. F. to a mositure content not greater than about 13%. The dried particles are then ground to a flour.