Resource-aware configuration in smart camera networks

A recent trend in smart camera networks is that they are able to modify the functionality during runtime to better reflect changes in the observed scenes and in the specified monitoring tasks. In this paper we focus on different configuration methods for such networks. A configuration is given by three components: (i) a description of the camera nodes, (ii) a specification of the area of interest by means of observation points and the associated monitoring activities, and (iii) a description of the analysis tasks. We introduce centralized, distributed and proprioceptive configuration methods and compare their properties and performance

Endothelin-1 down-regulates matrix metalloproteinase 14 and 15 expression in human first trimester trophoblasts via endothelin receptor type B

$\textbf{STUDY QUESTION}$: Does endothelin-1 (ET-1) regulate matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 14 and 15 production and invasion of human first trimester trophoblasts? $\textbf{SUMMARY ANSWER}$: ET-1 in pathophysiological concentrations down-regulates MMP14 and MMP15 expression via endothelin receptor (ETR) type B and decreases trophoblast migration and invasion. $\textbf{WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY}$: MMP14 and MMP15 are involved in trophoblast invasion. Impairment of invasion has been linked to pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia (PE). ET-1 is up-regulated in PE. $\textbf{STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION}$: $\textit{In vitro}$ study using primary human trophoblasts from 50 first trimester placentas (gestational week 7-12). $\textbf{PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS}$: Trophoblasts were cultured in the absence or presence of 10-100 nM ET-1. MMP14 and MMP15 mRNA and protein were quantified by RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. Selective antagonists for ETRA (BQ-123) or ETRB (BQ-788) were used to identify ETR subtypes involved. Functional ET-1 effects were tested in first trimester chorionic villous explants and transwell invasion assays. The roles of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (25 ng/ml) and oxygen (1%) in ET-1 regulation of MMP14 and 15 expression were assessed by Western blotting. $\textbf{MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE}$: ET-1 down-regulated MMP14 and MMP15 mRNA (-21% and -26%, respectively, $\textit{P}$ < 0.05) and protein levels (-18% and -22%, respectively, $\textit{P}$ < 0.05). This effect was mediated via ETRB. ET-1 decreased trophoblast outgrowth in placental explants (-24%, $\textit{P}$ < 0.05) and trophoblast invasion (-26%, $\textit{P}$ ≤ 0.01). TNF-α enhanced ET-1 mediated MMP15 down-regulation (by 10%, $\textit{P}$ < 0.05), whereas hypoxia abolished the effect of ET-1 on both MMPs. $\textbf{LARGE SCALE DATA}$: N/A. $\textbf{LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION}$: Only primary trophoblasts were used in this study. Since trophoblast yield from first trimester placental material is limited, further aspects of MMP14 and 15 regulation could not be characterized. Other anti-invasive factors may be altered by ET-1 in trophoblasts and, thus, contribute to the reduced invasion, but have not been investigated. Oxygen levels similar to those found in the decidua (5-8% O2) were not analyzed in this study. $\textbf{WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS}$: ET-1 modifies placental function already during the first trimester of pregnancy, the time-window when the placental changes implicated in PE occur. Thus, our results improve the understanding of the placental mechanisms underlying trophoblast invasion and PE.The study was funded by the Oesterreichische Nationalbank (Anniversary Fund, project number: 14796) and the Herzfelder'sche Familienstiftung (to J.P.; number: 00685). AMM received funding from the Austrian Science Fund FWF (W1241) and the Medical University Graz through the PhD Program Molecular Fundamentals of Inflammation (DK-MOLIN)

The hunter River estuary water quality model

© Australasian Coasts and Ports 2019 Conference. All rights reserved. This paper presents a detailed hydrodynamic and water quality model to simulate ecological processes in the Hunter River estuary. Following an extensive 3-year multi-disciplinary field campaign, the model was developed to assess total catchment management options. The model outcomes are linked to existing water sharing plans, pollution reduction plans and coastal reforms underway in NSW. Initially a detailed scoping study was undertaken to determine the values and requirements of the key stakeholders across the catchment. Data gaps were subsequently prioritised, and an inter-agency modelling oversight committee was formed to ensure that the modelling tools would be accepted across the region. Following these developmental stages, a field program was initiated which included: estuary wide flow gauging and water quality assessments, microbial linkages, ecotoxicological assessments, sedimentation dynamics, DNA sequencing, qPCR analyses, catchment hydrological flux measurements, nutrient mesocosm experiments, bathymetry surveys and the development of crop irrigation modules. The field data analyses resulted in a conceptual model of the eco-hydraulics of the estuary. A robust numerical model was formulated through an extensive process of external peer review. A source model was selected that ensured the broadest flexibility and ongoing usage rates. A multi-disciplinary approach was undertaken to ensure the model represents a wide range of estuarine processes. The final model is currently undergoing additional peer review, calibration/validation and simulation testing