Abstract: A method for testing an intent log for a file system that includes creating a first file system, issuing a command to freeze the first file system, performing a plurality of commands on the first file system to obtain a plurality of deltas, wherein each of the plurality of deltas is stored in the intent log and is not committed to the first file system, copying the first file system to obtain a second file system, committing each of the plurality of deltas in the intent log to the second file system, unfreezing the first file system and committing each of the deltas in the intent log to the first file system, and comparing the first file system, after committing each of the deltas in the intent log, to the second file system to determine whether the intent log is valid.

Abstract: A method for dynamic intent logging in a file system. The method including pre-allocating a first log block, receiving a request to write a first set of deltas into a dynamic intent log, determining whether a size of the first set of deltas is larger than a size of the first log block, if the size of the first set of deltas is not larger than the size of the first log block, storing the first set of deltas in the first log block and pre-allocating a second log block.

Abstract: Improved techniques for providing users and application programs with access to data stored in computer systems are disclosed. The improved techniques are particularly well suited for use in computer systems where data can be logically organized in files presented in a file system. A multilevel caching system suitable for storing information relating to files in the file system is provided. The stored information can include file references suitable for locating files in the file system as well as other useful information about the file system. The multilevel caching system provides the ability to implement various caching strategies at different levels and increases the probability of cache hits when seeking to locate files in a file system. Accordingly, relatively expensive read operations to persistent storage devices can be minimized when locating files in the file system.

Abstract: Vesiculated polymer beads are prepared in which a water-in-oil-in-water emulsion containing a cross-linkable polymer and a copolymerizable monomer in the oil phase is heated in the presence of an initiator to cure the polymer beads, wherein curing is commenced in a first stage in the presence of a substantially water-insoluble initiator and, when the beads are sufficiently stable, curing is completed in a second stage in the presence of an at least partially water-soluble initiator. Preferably, the completion of curing is carried out at a temperature higher than that of the first stage. The beads can be used in low odor paint formulations.