In this paper, we provide a comprehensive examination of the evolution of graphics Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). We begin by exploring traditional graphics APIs, elucidating their distinct features and inherent challenges. This sets the stage for a detailed exploration of modern graphics APIs, with a focus on four critical design principles. These principles are further analyzed through specific case studies and categorical examinations. The paper then introduces MoerEngine, a bespoke rendering engine, as a practical case to demonstrate the real-world application of these modern principles in software engineering. In conclusion, the study offers insights into the potential future trajectory of graphics APIs, spotlighting emerging design patterns and technological innovations. It also ventures to predict the development trends and capabilities of next-generation graphics APIs.

Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) schemes have achieved great attention recently and been considered as a crucial component for 5G wireless networks since they can efficiently enhance the spectrum efficiency, support massive connections and potentially reduce access latency via grant free access. In this paper, we introduce the candidate NOMA solutions in 5G networks, comparing the principles, key features, application scenarios, transmitters and receivers, etc. In addition, a unified framework of these multiple access schemes are proposed to improve resource utilization, reduce the cost and support the flexible adaptation of multiple access schemes. Further, flexible multiple access schemes in 5G systems are discussed. They can support diverse deployment scenarios and traffic requirements in 5G. Challenges and future research directions are also highlighted to shed some lights for the standardization in 5G.