Abstract: A method and system for processing a database query is described. One embodiment is a scalable, reconfigurable database query processing system comprising one or more director, user, and performance modules in a configuration that includes shared-nothing behavior of the modules and the distributed processing of primitives for resolving a database query in accordance with a column-oriented database architecture.

Abstract: A method and system for performing a scan operation on a table of a column-oriented database is described. One embodiment receives a database query that references a particular column in a table, the particular column being horizontally partitioned into at least one extent, the at least one extent including at least one data block; consults, for each extent in the particular column for which associated metadata is available, the metadata associated with that extent to determine whether that extent is required to process the scan operation; acquires, for each extent in the particular column for which associated metadata is not available, metadata associated with that extent and uses the acquired metadata associated with that extent to determine whether that extent is required to process the scan operation; and performs the scan operation on only those extents in the particular column determined to be required to process the scan operation.

Abstract: Apparatus for manufacturing, on an automatic continuous basis, successive album pages of predetermined length and width each of which consists of a base sheet having a reinforcing tape bound thereto in overlapping relation with each edge thereof comprises a series of five stations: a tape preparing station, a sheet loading station, a glue station, a page assembly station and a cut-off station. In operation, one of two tapes has staple-like hinges applied thereto, both tapes are coated on one surface with glue, and both tapes advance to the assembling station to which successive sheets are fed lengthwise from the sheet loading station. In passing through the page assembling station, the tapes are folded and pressed into overlapping adhered relation with the side edges of the sheet to form a web consisting of a series of pages held together by intermediate pieces of the two tapes. The tapes, the successive sheets and the resulting web are drawn through the apparatus by a reciprocating carriage.

Abstract: An adjustable-delivery cigarette and method for producing same, whose strength delivery may be altered by the consumer in a range between higher and lower values. The cigarette includes a tobacco rod, with paper wrapper, and the filter assembly. An overwrap encircles the filter element and may also join the filter element to the tobacco rod. The overwrap has an adjustment zone formed therein, which may be in the form of a circumferential slot. The circumferential slot may extend partially through the overwrap, or may extend completely through the overwrap and partially through the filter plugwrap. In the latter instance, the filter plugwrap should be relatively impervious to airflow. Application by the consumer of a bending moment to the filter assembly results in the adjustment zone being ruptured, allowing a greater degree of air dilution, resulting in a decreased perceptible strength to the consumer.