Abstract: A preprocessing script-based data communications system and method that embeds information regarding the previous state of the system within script data. This effectively imposes a state memory upon what would otherwise be a stateless system. Typically, the scripts processed by this system are similar in structure and format to ordinary HTML scripts, with the addition of several commands that facilitate programming embedded state information. Within systems employing the invention a client is afforded the capability of having one script influence another by exploiting the preprocessor imposed state memory. In addition, the invention provides these advantages to a client without the need for storing state information on a data system server, thereby providing increased system security.

Abstract: Raman-active optical fiber having very large Raman cross section is disclosed. The fiber comprises glass that has two major components, a glass-forming first component (GeO.sub.2, SiO.sub.2, AsO.sub.1.5, or combinations thereof) and a heavy metal oxide second component (PbO, BiO.sub.1.5, SbO.sub.1.5, TlO.sub.0.5, or combinations thereof), with the first and second major components making up at least 70 mol %, preferably at least 90 mol %, of the glass. The maximum relative Raman cross section .sigma..sub.r of the inventive glass is at least 15, preferably greater than 20, where .sigma..sub.r =.sigma..sub.RA /.theta..sub.SiO.sbsb.2, and where .sigma..sub.RA and .sigma..sub.SiO.sbsb.2 are the maximum 0.degree. K. Raman cross sections of the inventive glass and of pure vitreous SiO.sub.2, respectively.