Comparing an ACO algorithm with other heuristics for the single machine scheduling problem with sequence-dependent setup times

We compare several heuristics for solving a single machine scheduling problem. In the operating situation modelled, setup times are sequence-dependent and the objective is to minimize total tardiness. We describe an Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm having a new feature using look-ahead information in the transition rule. This feature shows an improvement in performance. A comparison with a genetic algorithm, a simulated annealing approach, a local search method and a branch-and-bound algorithm indicates that the ACO that we describe is competitive and has a certain advantage for larger problems.     

Treatment of trigeminal ganglion neurons in vitro with NGF,GDNF or BDNF: effects on neuronal survival,neurochemical properties and TRPV1-mediated neuropeptide secretion

Background  

Nerve growth factor (NGF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) all play important roles in the development of the peripheral sensory nervous system. Additionally, these growth factors are proposed to modulate the properties of the sensory system in the adult under pathological conditions brought about by nerve injury or inflammation. We have examined the effects of NGF, GDNF and BDNF on adult rat trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons in culture to gain a better understanding of how these growth factors alter the cytochemical and functional phenotype of these neurons, with special attention to properties associated with nociception.