Importance

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Abstract

A method for fetching key record data in a group or record keys according to at least a portion of a key record through an index tree is provided. The index tree provides concurrent accesses of record keys by different transactions. The index tree includes a root node connected to at least one level of nodes, each node having a key record reference to one of more nodes in a next successive level and having bottom nodes that provide access to the key data. The method consists of the steps of (1) traversing across said nodes from said root node by using said key record portion until a bottom node is reached; (2) limiting all but read accesses to the node being traversed and a previously accessed node, to other concurrent transactions; (3) identifying said key record in said bottom node; (4) limiting all but read accesses to said key record; (5) removing all access limitations to traversed nodes; (6) fetching key record data; and (7) removing the access limitation to the key record after the record data has been fetched. Further, methods for inserting and deleting record keys are provided. Additionally, a method for changing the index tree structure while allowing concurrent accesses to take place is provided.

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First Claim