as for the columns, i think i know what you're talking about. is the first column an envelope?
if so, the first column (with the envelopes): if it's open and whitish like this:
, then it means the thread has new posts.
if it's open and orangish like this:
, then it means the thread has new posts and is considered a popular/hot thread, with more than 20 posts or 150 views.
if it's closed and grey like this:
then the thread has no new posts since your last visit.
if it's closed, grey, and has little lines on top of it like this:
, then it's a hot/popular thread with no new posts since your last visit.
if it has a lock on it like this:
, then it means the thread has been closed.
finally, sometimes the envelopes (of any of those) will have a black dot in the center. that means it's a thread you've replied to at some time or another.
lastly, the second column contains smilies. it's just whichever one the user picks when they start the thread.
hope all of this helps!
