This introduction to database systems offers a comprehensive approach, focusing on database design, database use, and implementation of database applications and database management systems. KEY TOPICS: The first half of the book provides in-depth coverage of databases from the point of view of the database designer, user, and application programmer. It covers the latest database standards SQL:1999, SQL/PSM, SQL/CLI, JDBC, ODL, and XML, with broader coverage of SQL than most other texts. The second half of the book covers databases from the point of view of the DBMS implementor, focusing on storage structures, query processing, and transaction management. The book covers the main techniques in these areas with broader coverage of query optimization than most other texts, along with advanced topics including multidimensional and bitmap indexes, distributed transactions, and information integration techniques.  Ideal for professionals and students interested in database systems. A basic understanding of algebraic expressions and laws, logic, basic data structure, OOP concepts, and programming environments is implied.