Abstract: A span of data in content having an associated hierarchical representation can be specified as a content segment. The span of data can be specified without modifying the hierarchical representation for the content. Events and properties can be specified for the content segment. If desired, content segments can be stacked on top of one another, and they can overlap. Disjoint (e.g., non-contiguous) content segments can be designated, and sub-segments can be processed. A variety of operations can be performed for the content segments, and a user interface service can provide a variety of services for content segments.

Abstract: A hybrid tree data structure is suitable for use in scenarios involving intermingled text and user interface elements. Trees of two different types can be combined via one or more proxy nodes. For example, one type can be efficient at processing user interface elements and another can be efficient at processing text. Operations suitable for user interface elements can be efficiently performed on portions of the hybrid tree having user interface elements, and operations suitable for sequential data can be efficiently performed on portions of the hybrid tree having sequential data. The structure is thus suited for representing documents or graphical user interfaces. A hypertext document can be represented via the hybrid tree to enable more efficient searching, navigation, rendering, or editing of the document. Hybrid tree services can be provided by an operating system service.

Abstract: A method and system for maintaining the integrity of links in a computer network. The method and system is realized in a link tracking service including a local link tracking service, preferably running on all of the computers within the network, and a centralized link tracking server, preferably running on a network server. The local link tracking service manages the link tracking activities for the machine on which it resides. These activities include searching for link sources and tracking link source moves. The centralized link tracking service is provided to cooperate with the local link tracking services and, more particularly, for recording link source file movements as reported to it by the local link tracking services. The recorded information is available to be used by the local link tracking services should the local link tracking services need assistance in finding a link source that has been moved.

Abstract: A method is described for managing property information related to a resource such as a computer file or directory. First, a property file is created for storing property information related to the resource. Next, the property file is directly associated with the resource such that if the resource is moved, copied, or deleted, the corresponding property file is also moved, copied, or deleted, thus protecting against disassociation. The property file is also directly associated with the resource without having to refer to a separate look-up or sequel database, thus saving computer time. Organizing the property file in this manner allows for searches to be performed on the property information as well as on the content of the resource.