re-implement database tests that make sense and extend unit tests

[gyund]

A number of the database tests had to be disabled because they require some re-thought. For this task, go through all the current database tests and instrumented tests and determine what test cases should be added.

Also, look at the unit tests. There aren't really any. We should carve out pieces that can be turned into unit tests and move them there if possible to avoid having to instrument on a virtual equipment.