[Users] AVPOPS: question about avp_db_query

Hello, Is there a way to load an integer value into an integer avp using avp_db_query? For example if in table usr_preferences I have value='15' and type=1, then using avp_db_load I get an avp with an int value of 15. Then I can use this int avp to check whether it is greater or less than some value. I am trying to do the same thing with avp_db_query but the avp that I get is a string. thank you for any help George Disclaimer The information in this e-mail and any attachments is confidential. It is intended solely for the attention and use of the named addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient, or person responsible for delivering this information to the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Unless you are the intended recipient or his/her representative you are not authorized to, and must not, read, copy, distribute, use or retain this message or any part of it. E-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error-free as information could be intercepted, corrupted, lost, destroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses.