The present invention generally concerns the use of Bragg optical fibers in chirped pulse amplification systems for the production of high-pulse-energy ultrashort optical pulses. The base has an inner wall facing the open area and an outer wall facing away from the open area. Devices for the large scale and continuous cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms incorporating photobioreactors and methods of use are disclosed. The coupling assembly includes an element carried by the second section, and presents an engagement width that is greater than the second width and less than or equal to the first width such that the element may be shiftably received within the first section at the first width, and can be removably engaged at the second width.