Embedding Multi-Task Address-Event- Representation Computation

Address-Event-Representation, AER, is a communication protocol that is intended to transfer neuronal spikes between bioinspired chips. There are several AER tools to help to develop and test AER based systems, which may consist of a hierarchical structure with several chips that transmit spikes among them in real-time, while performing some processing. Although these tools reach very high bandwidth at the AER communication level, they require the use of a personal computer to allow the higher level processing of the event information. We propose the use of an embedded platform based on a multi-task operating system to allow both, the AER communication and processing without the requirement of either a laptop or a computer. In this paper, we present and study the performance of an embedded multi-task AER tool, connecting and programming it for processing Address-Event information from a spiking generator.Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación TEC2006-11730-C03-0

The public face of event volunteering at the 2006 Commonwealth Games The media perspective

Volunteers play a major role in mega and major events, both cultural and sporting, contributing invaluable human resources. Frequently described (and, maybe, over-emphasised) as the 'unsung heroes' of such events, relatively little is known about this group of workers when compared with volunteers who give regular and long-term commitment to their area of interest. This paper focuses on media representation and perceptions of volunteering at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. The exploratory study adopts an extended timeframe and reports on media representation of volunteers over the full event cycle from recruitment through training and the actual event, concluding with consideration of the Games' aftermath. The findings highlight various positive and negative aspects of the media representation of volunteering at this type of mega event and how this has the potential to influence its public face. Conclusions focus on the implications for the media management of volunteering at major events and suggestions for future research in this area