AI-optimised tuneable sources for bandwidth-scalable, sub-nanosecond wavelength switching

Wavelength routed optical switching promises low power and latency networking for data centres, but requires a wideband wavelength tuneable source (WTS) capable of sub-nanosecond switching at every node. We propose a hybrid WTS that uses time-interleaved tuneable lasers, each gated by a semiconductor optical amplifier, where the performance of each device is optimised using artificial intelligence. Through simulation and experiment we demonstrate record wavelength switch times below 900 ps across 6.05 THz (122×50 GHz) of continuously tuneable optical bandwidth. A method for further bandwidth scaling is evaluated and compared to alternative designs

Using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) with Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Athletes to Reduce Irrational Beliefs and Increase Unconditional Self-Acceptance

© 2016, Springer Science+Business Media New York. The reported application of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) with athletes is growing but remains scarce within sport psychology literature. This study used a single-case multiple-baseline across participants design to investigate the effects of REBT on irrational self-depreciation beliefs and unconditional self-acceptance (USA) with three male mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes. Visual and statistical analyses indicate a reduction in total irrationality and self-depreciation and an increase in USA, which was maintained at 6 months post-REBT for two of the three athletes. Social validation data revealed positive changes in emotion management and performance in all athletes. The mechanisms by which REBT promoted changes in self-depreciation and USA are discussed as are recommendations regarding the future implementation of REBT with athletes

Exploratory research into the resilience of farming systems during periods of hardship

This paper investigates the management strategies and responses used by New Zealand sheep and beef farmers to ensure resilience during periods of hardship. Using two farm level surveys conducted in 1986 and 2010, some aspects of resilient farming systems were identified. Despite apparent hardship current farmers seemed more willing to take risks, with many more borrowing to invest in on farm developments than those in 1986. The main similarity between time periods was the greatest response to economic changes being the adoption of a low input policy. This result was quite significant, as conventional farmers are generally believed to resort to other strategies or responses

Resilience of farming systems during periods of hardship

The ability of farm businesses to be sustainable has become increasingly difficult with pressures rising from the need to expand or change landuse in order to remain viable; social values, beliefs and trends; and environmental change with the consequent regulation. To remain resilient to these stresses and changes farmers must develop effective management responses and strategies. This paper investigates these management techniques identifying some solutions considered and adopted by New Zealand sheep and beef farmers. Using two, farm level surveys conducted by Fairweather in 1986 and ARGOS in 2010, some aspects of resilient farming systems are identified. Due to the different time periods of these two surveys and the different global markets and systems effecting localised farming systems there were notable differences in management responses and strategies. The results show that despite apparent hardship farmers currently seemed more willing to take risks, with many more borrowing to invest in on farm developments with the goal of accessing new areas of production and markets. This was seen with many farmers adapting to utilise the current strength of diary returns to supplement the reduced returns being received for sheep and beef products. This willingness to borrow was very different to the mentality shown by farmers in 1987 with then very few farmers borrowing, with refinancing existing debt being the main reason for taking loans. Other areas in which farmers were currently appearing to be taking risks were through innovation, trying new techniques, new management methods, developing niche products, diversification and looking to access new markets. The main similarity between time periods was the greatest response to economic changes being the adoption of a low input policy. This result was quite significant, as farmers using conventional management systems, which comprised the majority of the 1986 survey, are generally believed to resort to other strategies or responses. The ARGOS sample on the other hand is biased towards farmers on low input strategies. Of the farms surveyed there were two main management strategies adopted in times of hardship or economic stress. One was sticking with familiar, proven methods that have been developed over time. The other was one that constantly evolves, remaining flexible and adaptive through employing new practices and incorporating products into their business when necessary or seen as optimal. Which of these was most resilient was as dependent on the farmer as it was the management strategy they implemented. It was felt that in the present climate the majority of existing farms had a reasonable degree of resilience as they had survived in the current irregular global environment.This work was funded by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (Contract Number AGRB0301)

Viability of a commercially sustainable West Coast horticulture industry

The aim of this report is to assess the feasibility of establishing a horticultural industry on the West Coast. The industry should be intended to be of sufficient size to facilitate the development of an infrastructure to support the ongoing development and evolution of horticulture on the West Coast. The industry development should also be in the relatively short term and therefore it is not intended that new markets should be explored but rather this industry to take advantage of exiting supply channels, some scoping of which had already been done by stakeholders on the West Coast.Development West Coast, New Zealand Trade and Enterpris