Fine Structure of the Zeros of Orthogonal Polynomials, II. OPUC With Competing Exponential Decay

We present a complete theory of the asymptotics of the zeros of OPUC with Verblunsky coefficients $\alpha_n = \sum_{\ell=1}^L C_\ell b_\ell^n + O((b\Delta)^n)$ where $\Delta <1$ and \abs{b_\ell} = b<1.Comment: Keywords: orthogonal polynomials, Jacobi matrices, CMV matrice

SR-2: A Hybrid Algorithm for the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem

During the last decades a lot of work has been devoted to develop algorithms that can provide near-optimal solutions for the capacitated vehicle routing problem (CVRP). Most of these algorithms are designed to minimize an objective function, subject to a set of constraints, which typically represents aprioristic costs. This approach provides adequate theoretical solutions, but they do not always fit real-life needs since there are some important costs and some routing constraints or desirable properties that cannot be easily modeled. In this paper, we present a new approach which combines the use of Monte Carlo simulation and parallel and grid computing techniques to provide a set of alternative solutions to the CVRP. This allows the decision-maker to consider multiple solution characteristics other than just aprioristic costs. Therefore, our methodology offers more flexibility during the routing selection process, which may help to improve the quality of service offered to clients

ILS-ESP: An efficient, simple, and parameter-free algorithm for solving the permutation flow-shop problem

From a managerial point of view, the more e cient, simple, and parameter-free (ESP) an algorithm is, the more likely it will be used in practice for solving real-life problems. Following this principle, an ESP algorithm for solving the Permutation Flowshop Sequencing Problem (PFSP) is proposed in this article. Using an Iterated Local Search (ILS) framework, the so-called ILS-ESP algorithm is able to compete in performance with other well-known ILS-based approaches, which are considered among the most e cient algorithms for the PFSP. However, while other similar approaches still employ several parameters that can a ect their performance if not properly chosen, our algorithm does not require any particular fine-tuning process since it uses basic ‘common sense’ rules for the local search, perturbation, and acceptance criterion stages of the ILS metaheuristic. Our approach defines a new operator for the ILS perturbation process, a new acceptance criterion based on extremely simple and transparent rules, and a biased randomization process of the initial solution to randomly generate di erent alternative initial solutions of similar quality -which is attained by applying a biased randomization to a classical PFSP heuristic. This diversification of the initial solution aims at avoiding poorly designed starting points and, thus, allows the methodology to take advantage of current trends in parallel and distributed computing. A set of extensive tests, based on literature benchmarks, has been carried out in order to validate our algorithm and compare it against other approaches. These tests show that our parameter-free algorithm is able to compete with state-of-the-art metaheuristics for the PFSP. Also, the experiments show that, when using parallel computing, it is possible to improve the top ILS-based metaheuristic by just incorporating to it our biased randomization process with a high-quality pseudo-random number generator.Preprin

Tokenized Markets Using Blockchain Technology: Exploring Recent Developments and Opportunities

[EN] The popularity of blockchain technology stems largely from its association with cryptocurrencies, but its potential applications extend beyond this. Fungible tokens, which are interchangeable, can facilitate value transactions, while smart contracts using non-fungible tokens enable the exchange of digital assets. Utilizing blockchain technology, tokenized platforms can create virtual markets that operate without the need for a central authority. In principle, blockchain technology provides these markets with a high degree of security, trustworthiness, and dependability. This article surveys recent developments in these areas, including examples of architectures, designs, challenges, and best practices (case studies) for the design and implementation of tokenized platforms for exchanging digital assets.This work has received financial support from the Horizon Europe Research & amp; Innovation Programme under Grant agreement N. 101092612 (Social and hUman ceNtered XR-SUN project), as well as from the Regional Department of Innovation, Universities, Science and Digital Society of the Generalitat Valenciana "Programa Investigo" (INVEST/2022/342), within the framework of the Plan de Recuperacion, Transformacion y Resiliencia funded by the European Union-NextGenerationEU.Juan-Pérez, ÁA.; Pérez Bernabeu, E.; Li, Y.; Martín, XA.; Ammouriova, M.; Barrios, BB. (2023). Tokenized Markets Using Blockchain Technology: Exploring Recent Developments and Opportunities. Information. 14(6). https://doi.org/10.3390/info1406034714

Callous-unemotional traits, low cortisol reactivity and physical aggression in children: findings from the Wirral Child Health and Development Study

Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are thought to confer risk for aggression via reduced amygdala responsivity to distress cues in others. Low cortisol reactivity is thought to confer risk for aggression via reduced arousal and this effect may be confined to boys. We tested the hypothesis that the association between childhood CU traits and aggression would be greatest in the absence of the inhibitory effects of cortisol reactivity, and that this effect would be sex dependent. Participants were 283 members of a stratified subsample within an epidemiological longitudinal cohort (WCHADS). Cortisol reactivity to a social stressor was assessed at 5 years. CU traits were reported by mothers at 5 years, and physical aggression by mothers and teachers at age 7. Results showed that CU traits were associated with elevated aggression at 7 years controlling for earlier aggression. There was no main effect of cortisol reactivity on regression. The association between CU traits and aggression was moderated by cortisol reactivity (p = .011) with a strong association between CU traits and aggression in the presence of low reactivity, and a small and non-significant association in the presence of high reactivity. This association was further moderated by child sex (p = .041) with the joint effect of high CU traits and low cortisol reactivity seen only in boys (p = .016). We report first evidence that a combined deficit in inhibitory processes associated with CU traits and low cortisol reactivity increases risk for childhood aggression, in a sex-dependent manner

New Paraguayan records of Xenarthra with a review of the species present in Ñeembucú department

This article provides an update of the distribution of the Xenarthra fauna of Paraguay. Tamandua tetradactyla is confirmed to occur in all Paraguayan departments. New departmental records of Myrme-cophaga tridactyla are reported for Ñeembucú, Paraguarí, and San Pedro. Dasypus novemcinctus is reported for Ñeembucú department for the first time. Two previous species (Dasypus hybridus and Cabassous tatouay) considered to occur in Ñeembucú department based on specimens in the Basel Natural History Museum are now considered doubtful. A public interest in reports of Myrmecophagidae in Paraguay is noted and it is suggested that it could be utilized to benefit the conservation of these species in the Oriental region, where both species are rarely encountered

A systematic analysis of host factors reveals a Med23-interferon-λ regulatory axis against herpes simplex virus type 1 replication

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a neurotropic virus causing vesicular oral or genital skin lesions, meningitis and other diseases particularly harmful in immunocompromised individuals. To comprehensively investigate the complex interaction between HSV-1 and its host we combined two genome-scale screens for host factors (HFs) involved in virus replication. A yeast two-hybrid screen for protein interactions and a RNA interference (RNAi) screen with a druggable genome small interfering RNA (siRNA) library confirmed existing and identified novel HFs which functionally influence HSV-1 infection. Bioinformatic analyses found the 358 HFs were enriched for several pathways and multi-protein complexes. Of particular interest was the identification of Med23 as a strongly anti-viral component of the largely pro-viral Mediator complex, which links specific transcription factors to RNA polymerase II. The anti-viral effect of Med23 on HSV-1 replication was confirmed in gain-of-function gene overexpression experiments, and this inhibitory effect was specific to HSV-1, as a range of other viruses including Vaccinia virus and Semliki Forest virus were unaffected by Med23 depletion. We found Med23 significantly upregulated expression of the type III interferon family (IFN-λ) at the mRNA and protein level by directly interacting with the transcription factor IRF7. The synergistic effect of Med23 and IRF7 on IFN-λ induction suggests this is the major transcription factor for IFN-λ expression. Genotypic analysis of patients suffering recurrent orofacial HSV-1 outbreaks, previously shown to be deficient in IFN-λ secretion, found a significant correlation with a single nucleotide polymorphism in the IFN-λ3 (IL28b) promoter strongly linked to Hepatitis C disease and treatment outcome. This paper describes a link between Med23 and IFN-λ, provides evidence for the crucial role of IFN-λ in HSV-1 immune control, and highlights the power of integrative genome-scale approaches to identify HFs critical for disease progression and outcome

The Hepatic Compensatory Response to Elevated Systemic Sulfide Promotes Diabetes

Impaired hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism are hallmarks of type 2 diabetes. Increased sulfide production or sulfide donor compounds may beneficially regulate hepatic metabolism. Disposal of sulfide through the sulfide oxidation pathway (SOP) is critical for maintaining sulfide within a safe physiological range. We show that mice lacking the liver- enriched mitochondrial SOP enzyme thiosulfate sulfurtransferase (Tst−/− mice) exhibit high circulating sulfide, increased gluconeogenesis, hypertriglyceridemia, and fatty liver. Unexpectedly, hepatic sulfide levels are normal in Tst−/− mice because of exaggerated induction of sulfide disposal, with associated suppression of global protein persulfidation and nuclear respiratory factor 2 target protein levels. Hepatic proteomic and persulfidomic profiles converge on gluconeogenesis and lipid metabolism, revealing a selective deficit in medium-chain fatty acid oxidation in Tst−/− mice. We reveal a critical role of TST in hepatic metabolism that has implications for sulfide donor strategies in the context of metabolic disease

Global Education Monitoring Report 2023: Technology in education: A tool on whose terms?

The adoption of digital technology has resulted in many changes in education and learning, yet it is debatable whether technology has transformed education as many claim. The application of digital technology varies by community and socioeconomic level, by teacher willingness and preparedness, by education level and by country income. Except in the most technologically advanced countries, computers and devices are not used in classrooms on a large scale. Moreover, evidence is mixed on its impact. The short- and long-term costs of using digital technology appear to be significantly underestimated. The most disadvantaged are typically denied the opportunity to benefit. In asking ‘A tool on whose terms?’, the Report shows that regulations for technology set outside of the education sector will not necessarily address education’s needs. It is released along with a #TechOnOurTerms campaign, calling for decisions about technology in education to prioritize learner needs after assessment of whether its application would be appropriate, equitable, evidence-based and sustainable. It provides a compass for policy makers to use when making these decisions. Those in decision-making positions are asked to look down at where they are, to see if technology is appropriate for their context, and learning needs. They are asked to look back at those left behind, to make sure they are focusing on the marginalized. They are reminded to look up at whether they have evidence on impact and enough information on the full cost needed to make informed decisions. And, finally they are asked to look forwards, to make sure their plans fit their vision for sustainable development. The report underscores the importance of learning to live both with and without digital technology; to take what is needed from an abundance of information but ignore what is not necessary; to let technology support, but never supplant, the human connection on which teaching and learning are based. The focus should be on learning outcomes, not digital inputs. To help improve learning, digital technology should be not a substitute for but a complement to face-to-face interaction with teachers. Supporting the sixth Global Education Monitoring Report is a new series of country profiles on PEER, a policy dialogue resource describing policies and regulations related to technology in the world’s education systems