Abstract: A system for sensing phase changes in a medium includes a bidirectional interferometer having a reference arm and a sensing arm, two inputs at each of the two ends of the interferometer, and a circulator disposed between each input and the interferometer. Sources provide squeezed state pulses at an input at each end of the interferometer. Spaced-apart partial reflectors are disposed along the arms. There are detectors associated with each input. The circulators pass the squeezed state pulses into the interferometer and route reflections of the pulses to the detectors. Classical pulses may provided at the other input at each end of the interferometer.

Abstract: Compositions and methods useful for fishing are described. In particular, compositions which include one or more fish attractants and which combine several advantageous properties, including moldability at ambient temperatures, sustained release of attractant(s), and ability to resist casting forces due to increased wet strength, are described. These advantages are achieved by combining a polymer such as a cellulose ester, a plasticizer, one or more fish attractant food sources, and optionally one or more fillers. The compositions may include up to 50% attractants, rendering them an effective bait material for attracting fish, crustaceans, other aquatic creatures such as marine mammals, mink, beaver, nuisance pests such as insects, rodents, and coyotes or game species such as deer and bear.