May 2012 Summaries

The Neo4j database has introduced a new clause called RELATE, which is similar to MATCH but creates relationships instead of just matching them. When there is no satisfying subgraph, RELATEmakes the needed relationships and even intervening nodes, ensuring that the subgraph exists. This clause allows users to track frequent patterns in their data, such as visiting coffee shops, by creating a graph mini-app. The CREATE clause has also been introduced in Neo4j 1.8.M01, allowing users to create nodes and relationships simultaneously. Additionally, the Neo4j shell now provides control over transactions with new commands: begin transaction, commit, and rollback. Neo4j 1.8.M03 is available for immediate download, offering improved functionality and flexibility for users.

At a recent merge point, Neo4j 1.8.M02 introduced several under-the-hood improvements, stage-setting additions, and issue corrections without adding any notable features to the surface-level user experience.

Graph with Graphviz is a useful feature in Neo4j that allows developers to quickly visualize their graphs by outputting a graphviz rendering. This can be achieved using the Graphviz Component, which is a well-hidden gem in Neo4j. To use this feature, developers simply need to pipe the graphviz notation into a file and then render it using installed software such as Graphviz and dot on their machine. The resulting visualization provides a concise representation of the graph's structure, making it easier for developers to understand and analyze their data.

The new Cypher grammar in Neo4j version 1.8.M01 introduces a more declarative and SQL-inspired syntax, allowing users to express data manipulation in a cleaner way, reducing the need for imperative patterns. The language now includes features like FOREACH, which enables operations on collections of things, and WITH, which combines RETURN and START statements. The Graph Console has been updated to support interactive experimentation with Cypher examples, and shared graph-gists can be easily shared on social media or discussed in online communities. The Neo4j Manual is also evolving to include a live, constantly updating documentation that learns from user interactions.