Single statement database/range processing with criteria

[DoctorG]

Although Excel provides Database processing (DSUM etc) it does so with
"external" criteria - "external" meaning that they are defined in cells
outside the Database function.

I have seen posts that process ranges with really complex criteria defined
in a single statement. Having all search conditions within the cell statement
is preferable as far as I am concerned as it results in less messy
spreadsheets. Can anyone provide links to articles describing ways to process
ranges/databases with criteria such as the following in a single statement?

Capitalized words represent Fieldnames (column headings).

- find in PRICES_DATABASE the PRICE where ITEM = Search_Item and Search_Date
is >= to PRICE_VALID_FROM and <= to PRICE_VALID_TO

- sum all AMOUNT in TRANSACTIONS_DATABASE where YEAR = 2006 and TRNS_TYPE =
"Sales"

Thanks in advance

[DoctorG]

I am closing this thread since I should have posted it under Worksheet
Functions. Sorry...