26 November 2006

Special issue on advances in cutting tools and their applications

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials v1(3) 2006 is a special issue: Advances in Cutting Tools and Their Applications. This collection of invited papers is mainly on cutting tools and their applications in machining operations. A wide variety of different topics are addressed ranging from coated tools, gradient tools, self-lubricating tools, milling cutter for high-speed machining, abrasive diamond wire saw, machinability of nickel-based super-alloys and intelligent selection system for tool materials.

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials moves to 6 issues in 2008

The International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials becomes the fifth Inderscience title to announce already an increase in the number of its issues in 2008. It will move from four to six issues at the end of next year, following its successful launch earlier this year.

24 November 2006

Call for papers: Computer Applications in Knowledge-Based Systems

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=544

Call for papers: Computer Applications in Knowledge-Based Systems

A special issue of the International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology (IJCAT)

Important Dates:

Submission of full paper before: 31 March 2007

Notification of acceptance before: 31 May 2007

Submission of final and revised manuscripts: 1 July 2007

Guest Editors:
Jun-ichi Aoe, Tokushima University, Japan
Kazuhiko Tsuda and Setsuya Kurahashi, University of Tsukuba, Japan
Masakazu Takahashi, Shimane University, Japan

Knowledge-based systems provide intelligent assistance in solving any problem. They can be used not only as systems within engineering, but also within management, marketing, internet, communication, networking, psychology, education, etc. The research and development of these systems which exploit knowledge in the target domain is at the forefront of modern research.

This special issue is intended to present applications of knowledge-based systems. Submitted papers are expected to postulate diverse problems, models and solutions for these applications.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Human Resource Development/Management in Lean Production

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=545

Call for papers: Human Resource Development/Management in Lean Production

A special issue of the International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management (IJHRDM)

Important dates:

Manuscripts due: 16 April, 2007

Notification: 18 June, 2007

Final manuscript due: 3 September, 2007

Guest Editors: Professor David Preece, University of Teesside, UK and Professor Robert Jones, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia

Extensive literatures have built up over the years relating to a) Human Resource Management/Development (HRM/D), b) Lean Production (LP). In both cases, these literatures can be provisionally disaggregated into writings which take a strong normative orientation, writings which are primarily concerned with theory development, and work which is concerned to report empirical findings within a given theoretical framework (in some cases this may lead to suggestions for theory development).

Some work, of course, has addressed both HRM/D and LP, that is to say has explored/discussed some aspect of HRM/D in a LP context, but usually the examination of HRM/D here is derivative, in the sense that the primary focus is upon such matters as shop floor working practices, management organisation in LP, team working in LP, surveillance and control in LP regimes, etc, etc. Here, HRM/D is not the primary interest of the writer/researcher, but, rather, is discussed in so far as there are 'HRM/D' implications emerging from and/or forming part of the aforementioned areas of interest, such that, for example, it is necessary to look at training and development provision/implications, whether HRM/D specialists have been involved and if so in what sort of way and with what results.

This Special Issue foregrounds both LP and HRM/D. We are seeking papers which fall into one or other of the latter two 'camps' outlined above, that is those which advance theory in the HRM/D and LP area, or, and especially, those which are theoretically-informed (and may contribute to theory development) and are empirically-based-in other words, present some new data relating to some aspect of HRM/D practice/organisation in LP environments. We believe that it is important that up-to-date knowledge and understanding of such practices and/or organisation is consolidated into a vehicle such as a Special Issue, given the widespread adoption of various forms of LP practice throughout the world, the pervasive HRM/D implications-and, possibly, precursors, of such practice and the relative lack of reliable, focused research in this area.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Biomass Energy in Developing Countries

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=546

Call for papers: Biomass Energy in Developing Countries

A special issue of the International Journal of Global Energy Issues (IJGEI)

Important dates:

Submission: 20 March, 2007

Review process: 20 March-20 May, 2007

Revised submissions: July, 2007

Guest Editor: Professor Liu Ronghou, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, P.R.China

The main objective of this special issue is to address issues related to the theory and experimental research and case studies in the field of biomass energy including resource, conversion technologies, utilisation of bio-energy, and techno-economic assessment in developing countries.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Role of Enabling Technologies in Optimising Supply Chain Activities

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=547

Call for papers: Role of Enabling Technologies in Optimising Supply Chain Activities

A special issue of the International Journal of Value Chain Management (IJVCM)

Important dates:

Manuscript submission: 31 May 2007

Reviewer reports: 31 August 2007

Revised paper submission: 31 October 2007

Final manuscript submission: 30 November 2007

Guest Editors: Dr. K. L. Choy and Dr. Henry C.W. Lau, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Dr. Felix T. S. Chan, University of Hong Kong

Demand for customer-tailored products and time-to-market present great challenges for fixed and linear supply chains that are competing in today’s market. While the prevalent linear supply chain model is supported by physical infrastructure that includes plants, trucks, rail, shipping lines, physical distribution points, including retail outlets and warehouses, the new envisioned model for product supply chain will be built around entities such as, people, information and smart products.

In addition, constant innovation in managing information and strategy is required for a sustainable enterprise as it responds to today’s business demands in a much more dynamic environment. Hence, in order to succeed in an unpredictable competitive marketplace, enterprises need to manage their supply chain activities, information, technologies and strategy effectively and innovatively.

Supply chain and logistics enabling technologies have taken a prominent role to integrate people, information and products across traditional supply chain boundaries including management of various manufacturing, logistics and retailing operations such as in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution of goods. Therefore, optimisation models integrating with web-based systems as well as smart materials represented by actuators and sensors, tagging represented by global positional system and radio frequency identification technology tags, and decentralised processing among trading partners can create a new manufacturing, logistics and distribution processes that provide a dynamically controlled supply chain network.

This Special Issue aims to align latest practice, innovation and case studies with academic frameworks and theories. It will include the latest research results and efforts at different levels including quick-response system, theoretical performance analysis, performance and capability demonstration, hoping to cover the role of enabling technologies in optimising supply chain activities. Prospective papers should be unpublished and present novel, fundamental research offering innovative contribution either from a methodological or an application perspective.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Knowledge Management and Business Data Mining

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=548

Call for papers: Knowledge Management and Business Data Mining

A special issue of the International Journal of Technology Management (IJTM)

Important dates:

Deadline for submission of manuscripts: 1 November 2007

Notification of acceptance/rejection to authors: 1 March 2008

Submission of final manuscript: 1 May 2008

Guest Editors: Dr Dash Wu, University of Toronto, Canada and Dr Marko Torkkeli, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Finland

As independently developed subjects, knowledge management and data mining have not been analysed as complementary, much less exploited. Both knowledge management (KM) and data mining (DM) grow and thrive at the confluence of information technologies (machine learning, knowledge-based systems, and databases), statistics and data analysis, as well as the business and management sciences.

The focus of this special issue is on bringing together researchers and practitioners from the areas of data mining and knowledge management. The technical objective is to exchange ideas and techniques from the two areas as well as to establish a framework for the development of methodologies that integrate knowledge management and information discovery.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Commercialisation process in SMEs and Globalisation

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=549

Call for papers: Commercialisation process in SMEs and Globalisation

A special issue of the International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation (IJTTC)

Important dates:

Manuscript submission: 30 April, 2007

Notification of Acceptance: 31 August, 2007

Final Submission: 31 October, 2007

Guest Editor: Markku Virtanen, Helsinki School of Economics, Finland

Commercialisation process is a critical factor for the success of SMEs. Many small and medium-sized technology firms are facing competition characterised by the product and market uncertainties, transfer of technologies, increasing intensity of knowledge and information, internationalisation and globalisation of market. Product uncertainties are caused by the shortened product life cycle, which is a common feature in the high technology sector.

In addition, the rapid changes in technology, customer requirements and business practices have a significant impact on firm performance. The capability of a firm to create and commercialise new products quickly is the central challenge for the small and medium-sized technology firms. The rapid commercialisation may secure survival and may also provide several benefits e.g. offer market leader position in national as well as in international level.
This special issue of commercialisation process in SMEs and globalisation emphasises the importance of commercialisation process and its characteristics including the driving forces and challenges in the market place. The driving forces and challenges include the rapid changes in environment and business models. Globalisation is one of those factors connected with both the changes of environment and business models. Thus the contributions connecting commercialisation process in SMEs and globalisation will be required.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Human Resource Management Practices in Industry Clusters

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=550

Call for papers: Human Resource Management Practices in Industry Clusters

A special issue of the International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management (IJHRDM)

Important dates:

Submissions should be sent no later than : 30 April 2007

Guest Editors: Prof. Dr. Bei Hu and Prof. Dr. Rongqiu Chen, Huazhong Science and Technology University, P. R. China

Industry clusters do not only exist in the developed countries but also appear in developing countries. With the exuberance of electric clusters of Silicon Valley and Route 128 USA, the surgical instrument cluster of Tuttlingen Germany, the high-tech cluster in Zhongguan Village of Beijing, the perfume bottle cluster in Vallée de la Bresle France, industry clusters have become the focus of governments and academics.

It has been found from previous research that industry clusters boost the district economy and the quality of human capital in the cluster is decisive. However, industry clusters, especially in the developing countries, are now confronting problems in terms of human intelligence, brand, patent and management skills, and human resource management and development has become the bottleneck for the sustainable development of industry clusters. The further development of industry clusters requires new and greater requirements in the structure and quality of working staff. Therefore, HRM&D research into industry clusters becomes vital.

At present, scholars mainly focus on the relationships between entrepreneurs and industry clusters, the connection between professionals and industry clusters, etc. However, HRM practice research are not profound enough. Some key questions are: what kind of talent policies can support the sustainable development of industry cluster? What kind of HRM&D strategy is acceptable to industry clusters? What kind of the knowledge management system is advantageous for the knowledge overflow in the cluster? What kind of training mechanism can foster the development of human capital in industry clusters?

The purpose of this special issue is to provide theoretical and empirical research on HRM practices in industry clusters. Empirical research employing multiple methods, conceptual papers utilising a variety of theoretical perspectives, and manuscripts addressing multiple levels of analysis are especially encouraged.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Frameworks, Approaches and Methodologies for Enhancing Information Quality

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=551

Call for papers: Frameworks, Approaches and Methodologies for Enhancing Information Quality

A special issue of the International Journal of Information Quality (IJIQ)

Important dates:

Due date for proposal submission : 1 February 2007

Acceptance notification : 15 February 2007

Due date for paper submission : 15 June 2007
Guest Editors: Professor Andy Koronios, University of South Australia, Australia and Dr Latif Al-Hakim, University of Southern Queensland, Australia

Information Quality (IQ) is becoming a very active area of research and practice. The awareness of IQ is growing. The organisations have started to realise the importance of IQ, adverse impacts it can have when ignored and long lasting benefits it can provide when managed properly. With this increased awareness of IQ, a plethora of methodologies and frameworks for IQ are emerging. It is thus timely to seek assessment of the state-of-the-art in this area and get directions for further enhancing it.

Recommended general topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

* Research methodology for information quality
* Technical frameworks for information quality projects and programs
* Methodologies and approaches for information quality assessment and measurements
* Information quality systems development
* Information quality and enterprise architecture
* Approaches for data cleansing
* Approaches and methodology for identifying information quality success factors
* Case study approaches and field research in data and information quality
* Framework for information quality in government and corporate governance
* Framework for information quality in risk management and regulatory compliance
* Information quality case studies in any service and manufacturing industries

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Networks of SMEs and Globalisation

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=552

Call for papers: Networks of SMEs and Globalisation

A special issue of the International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business (IJGSB)

Important dates:

Submission of extended abstracts (max. 500 words) : 15 February 2007

Notification of acceptance of abstracts : 28 February 2007

Submission of full papers following acceptance of abstracts : 30 April 2007

Notification of acceptance, refusal or revision of full papers : 30 June 2007

Submission of accepted and revisited final papers : 31 July 2007

Guest Editors: Luca Dezi and Francesco Schiavone, University Parthenope of Naples, Italy

In the third millennium, companies have, by necessity, to arrange a large number of links with their external environment in order to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. Cooperation and external agreements are in fact crucial for firms to both achieve resources, competencies and knowledge, not internally hold and to acquire new customers. In other words, external relations of firms are a very relevant source of their competitiveness and survival. This assumption shapes the present historical phase of capitalism, in which the ‘network paradigm’ is the dominant model of business management and governance for both large and small companies. In particular, one of the present main problems for small companies’ networks is to face globalisation and international dynamics of markets.

We invite contributions to a special issue of IJGSB that attempt to relate the networks of small firms with globalisation. Many networks of SMEs (e.g. industrial districts) indeed see this process as both a threat for their traditional business and an opportunity of international growth and development. In this context, the goal of this special issue is to collect a number of valuable papers analysing more ‘sides’ of this interesting and new dynamic interaction among networks of small companies and global markets and competitors.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Microgrinding

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=553

Call for papers: Microgrinding

A special issue of the International Journal of Nanomanufacturing (IJNM)

Important dates:

Deadline for submission of manuscripts : 30 September 2007

Communication of peer reviews to authors : 30 November 2007

Deadline for revised manuscripts : 31 January 2008

Guest Editors:
Professor Mark J. Jackson, Purdue University, US
Professor Waqar Ahmed, University of Ulster, UK

Microgrinding is a process with increasing importance especially in the area of manufacturing nanostructured surfaces. Microgrinding involves the machining of engineering materials using abrasive particles that are bonded in a matrix interspersed with induced and naturally occurring porosity. The development of bonded microgrinding tools is steadily gaining importance in addition to the development of grinding processes with loosely bonded and unbonded abrasive medium. The call for papers on microgrinding for this special issue is a reflection of the importance of this manufacturing process.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Nanostructured Materials and Coatings

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=554

Call for papers: Nanostructured Materials and Coatings

A special issue of the International Journal of Nano and Biomaterials (IJNBM)

Important dates:

Deadline for submission of manuscripts : 28 February 2007

Communication of peer reviews to authors : 30 April 2007

Deadline for revised manuscripts : 30 June 2007

Guest Editors:
Professor Mark J. Jackson, Purdue University, USA
Professor Waqar Ahmed, University of Ulster, UK
Dr. Christopher A. Rego, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK
Professor Yingxue Yao, Harbin Institute of Technology, China
Professor Mileta Tomovic, Purdue University, USA

The agricultural, industrial, and information technology revolutions resulted in quantum and dramatic changes in the way in which we live throughout the world. In recent years, the frontiers of research in engineering, science and technology have been driven by developments in nanomaterials that encompass a diverse range of disciplines.

The common theme is the ability to exhibit unique new properties arising from quantum effects. The number of research themes involving biological and nanostructured materials is growing rapidly and it is widely anticipated that nanotechnology will produce products, devices, components, and smart multifunctional intelligent systems. Advanced materials inspired by biological systems and processes are likely to change almost everything from vaccines to artificial tissues and organs to quantum computers.

This special inaugural issue aims to focus on the recent developments in nano and biomaterials in the growing field of nanostructured coatings and materials.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

23 November 2006

Special issue on games for design and engineering education

The papers in Journal of Design Research v5(2) 2006 examine the ways in which various types of games and simulations can enrich or enliven the teaching and practice of design and engineering. The editors' starting point is the belief that we are on the verge of a new (and perhaps revolutionary) approach to education in design and engineering, as described in Clark Aldrich’s best-selling book Simulations and the Future of Learning. An Innovative (and Perhaps Revolutionary) Approach to E-learning, Wiley, 2004.
The papers in this issue follow 5 themes: What designers can learn from video games; Game modding for virtual design; Contextualisation of engineering through role play; Web-enabled role play in engineering education; and Computer supported simulation-games of complex design systems.

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems

International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems - to begin publication in 2008 - will publish refereed quality papers in the broad field of mechatronics and manufacturing systems with a special emphasis on research and development in the modern engineering of advanced manufacturing processes and systems. It fosters information exchange and discussion on all aspects of mechatronics (computers, electrical and mechanical engineering) with applications in manufacturing processes and systems.

The journal will focus on all manufacturing systems, including machining (traditional and non-traditional processes), metal casting, bulk deformation, sheet metal forming, welding, plastics/composites processing, ceramic processing, additive/layered manufacturing processes, hybrid processes (thermal, plasma, chemical and electrical energy assisted processes), and microfabrication processes (micromachining, microforming, hot embossing and patterning).

It will also carry work on broad industrial applications, such as mechanical product manufacturing; applications in the automotive, aircraft, aerospace, machine tools, mould and die industries; consumer electronics product manufacturing; computers, semiconductor and communication industries and regulated product manufacturing; and biomedical, food, pharmaceutical and packaging industries.

22 November 2006

Special Issue on sculptured surface machining

International Journal of Manufacturing Research v1(2) 2006 is a special issue on sculptured surface machining, containing seven invited papers from internationally known researchers in this challenging field dealing with modelling, feed rates, tool size and tool orientation.

Special issue on intelligence in Web services

The 2nd International Ubiquitous Web Systems and Intelligences Workshop (UWSI) was held in May 2006 in Glasgow, Scotland. The workshop was co-located with the 2006 International Conference on Computational Science and its Applications.
From amongst the accepted papers in the workshop, eight authors were invited to submit their extended versions for a special issue of the International Journal of Web and Grid Services v2(3) 2006. Submitted papers were then reviewed by at least two reviewers and based on the reviews, four papers were accepted in the special issue.
The theme of this special issue is ‘Intelligence in Web Services’. The papers discuss the use of agents and other mechanisms, such as context-awareness policy and case-based reasoning, for providing more intelligent web services and their applications.

New Editor for International Journal of Public Sector Performance Management

Inderscience is delighted to announce that Professor Robert Fouchet, Dean of the Institute of Public Management at the Paul Cezanne University in Aix-en-Provence, France, is now setting up and developing the International Journal of Public Sector Performance Management. The journal will emphasise the implementation of performance management technologies; this perspective acknowledges the complexity of performance management in the public sector as an interface between the values placed upon public sector activities and their implementation.

21 November 2006

Special Issue on e-learning, e-training and e-knowledge: visions and observations from e-Agenda

International Journal of Learning Technology v2(4) 2006 is a special issue: e-Learning, e-Training and e-Knowledge: Visions and Observations from e-Agenda.
Over a 24-month period the editors had the privilege to engage with over 300 other e-learning professionals at seven separate eAgenda events around the globe involving key industry, government and higher education representatives.
With such a rich fabric of information and insight emerging from each of the events, it was only natural to pursue the concept of bringing together a collection of emerging and important concepts, observations and research into this special issue. The seven articles represent what the editors believe to be a coherent blend of such critical issues, observations and visions for the future in the e-learning, e-training and e-knowledge arenas.
The first article (Rossiter and Crock) creates a framework to assess the impact
and importance of change and innovation, and from this the editors have attempted to structure a special issue that provides a concise and focused compendium of resources on e-learning.
Reeve’s critical reflections on how we are travelling with respect to being able to apply professional and appropriate measures to assess the pedagogical impact of our e-learning endeavours and Rossett and Schafer’s excellent contribution on job aids and performance support provide the next contextual layer in the special issue. These papers are well complemented by Sloman’s examination of e-learning in the corporate sector and Salmon’s insights on the criticality of rewards and recognition in the e-learning arena. The issue is then rounded off with an historical and substantive review by Baker of the frameworks that support e-learning standards and an exploration by McNaught and Vogel of the fit between e-learning policy and organisational culture.

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Services Sciences

During recent years, there has been substantial and important growth in the application of quantitative analysis, i.e., operations research/management science, data mining, information, knowledge engineering and intelligent systems, statistics, and related fields to interdisciplinary problems arising in the service industry. International Journal of Services Sciences - to begin publication in 2008 - is a peer reviewed international journal devoted exclusively to research in this important, but under-represented area. It provides the primary forum for both academic and industry researchers and practitioners to propose and foster discussion on state-of-the-art research and development in the areas of services.

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Behavioural Studies in Accounting and Finance

International Journal of Behavioural Studies in Accounting and Finance - to begin publication in 2008 - aims to be a leading journal for publishing original papers reporting the results of research that address behavioural issues or adopt a behavioural methodology in accounting and finance. The term 'behavioural issues' is interpreted widely and includes but is not limited to economic, managerial, psychological and social issues facing financial markets, organisations, society, groups and individuals. The scope of accepted papers will include any research methodology in accounting or finance related subjects provided they address a behavioural issue across financial markets, corporate or governmental contexts in different countries.

17 November 2006

Call for papers: Globalisation and Technology Transfer in the Aerospace Industry

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=543

Call for papers: Globalisation and Technology Transfer in the Aerospace Industry

A special issue of the International Journal of Technology Transfer and Commercialisation (IJTTC)

Important Dates:

Deadline for manuscript submission: 31 October 2007

Guest Editor: Associate Professor Sören Eriksson, Jönköping International Business School, Sweden

The aerospace industry is a compound of several industries that produce aircraft, space vehicles, engines and a variety of components and systems. This industry is characterised by complex, very high-value added products produced in relatively small quantities. Products have long development periods, i.e. extremely long product life cycles. The industry is also characterised by volatile markets and high degree of political intervention. The high-technology requirements necessitate a high level of R&D. The aerospace industry has a potential for linkages and spill-over to other sectors and cross-fertilisation of advanced technology which few other industries can match.

The aerospace industry has largely been dominated by the advanced economies in North America (USA, Canada), Western Europe (G.B., France, Germany, Italy. Sweden, etc.), the former Eastern Europe (Soviet Union with a few other countries), and partly also Japan.

During recent decades, we have seen a dramatic change in the organisation and structure of this industry. Many emerging economies have invested heavily in the aerospace sector, some have succeeded and several have failed.

Other significant features of today’s global aerospace industry are increased production-sharing, international subcontracting and cross-border ownership. The issue of creating more efficient global supply-chains becomes increasingly important.

All these processes implies a radically increase in technology transfer between companies and economies around the world.

Suitable topics include but are not limited to:

* Technology transfer between aerospace companies

* Technology transfer between aerospace firms and other industrial sectors

* Technology transfer to emerging economies and firms

* Consolidation in the global aerospace industry

* Technology spill-over/transfer from the aerospace sector

* Industrial policy and technology transfer

* Supply-chains in the aerospace industry

* Globalisation processes in the aircraft/aerospace industry

* Comparative views between aerospace manufacturing and other industries

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Integrated Water Resources Management in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=542

Call for papers: Integrated Water Resources Management in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas

A special issue of the International Journal of Water (IJW)

Important dates:
Deadline for Submission: 15 May 2007

Guest Editors:
Neima Brauner, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
Eugene Levner, Holon Institite of Technology, Israel
David Moalem Maron, Holon Institite of Technology, Israel

In an increasing number of countries, in arid and semi-arid areas, water scarcity and deteriorating quality of natural water sources have become critical factors limiting national economic development, expansion of food production and/or provision of basic health and hygiene services to the population. There is an increasing urgency to develop new scientific means for sustainable management of water resources, and to offer solutions for improving living and working conditions for the present and future generations. Sustainable integrated water resources management is a concept that emphasises the need for a multi-disciplinary study of changing demands in the exploited water ecosystems which considers the development without their degradation in a long-term perspective as well as at the present.

The purpose of this special issue is to better understand the key aspects of the sustainable management of water resources in arid and semi-arid area, to construct new mathematical and physical models using modern instruments of system engineering, management science, and information technologies, and to attempt to determine what is needed to improve effective water resources management in arid and semi-arid areas. We invite submissions of articles for consideration; manuscripts may be technical, conceptual, case-studies, policy or practice oriented and can range from original research to overviews, assessments, and reviews.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Performance Analysis of an e-Business Environment

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=540

Call for papers: Performance Analysis of an e-Business Environment

A special issue of the International Journal of Value Chain Management (IJVCM)

Important dates:

Deadline for submission of manuscripts: 1 November, 2007

Notification of acceptance/rejection to authors: 1 March, 2008

Submission of final manuscript: 1 May, 2008

Guest Editors: Dr Dash Wu, University of Toronto, Canada and Professor Celik Parkan, Long Island University, USA

e-Business initiatives have received significant attention and investments in recent years. As increasing number of companies make electronic business an integral part of their strategic activities, the importance of analysing the performance of an e-Business environment has become critical for competitiveness. There are many key issues to be explored with respect to the performance analysis of an e-Business environment, such as the evaluation of information flows and selection of a project plan, which involves the issues of milestones, tasks, schedules, staffing, deliverables, and costs.

The intent of the special issue is to investigate innovative and effective uses of performance evaluation, management, and control approaches in an e-Business environment. Authors are encouraged to submit both theoretical and applied articles addressing the theme of the special issue.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Integration of E-commerce and Supply Chain

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=541

Call for papers: Integration of E-commerce and Supply Chain

A special issue of the International Journal of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (IJECRM)

Important dates:

Full paper due: 1 October 2007

Notification of acceptance: 30 December 2007

Final version of paper due: 1 February 2008

Guest Editors:
Prof. Zheng Qin, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, China
Dr. M. W. M. Ismail, Ryerson University, Canada
Dr. Dash Wu, University of Toronto, Canada

Traditionally, the phrase, “Supply Chain Management”, meant assembly lines, warehouses, truckers and time sheets. In a few years, the very fundamental goal in every stage of the supply chain has changed. Now companies are looking at how to provide greater service globally. In a quest for greater efficiency and lower costs, there has been growing importance given to managing the supply chain effectively for the benefit of all parties.

Traditional view of the supply chain has been changed by the internet. It has transformed the old-fashioned process into something closer to an exact science. With the emergence of the Internet, customers seek out specific products they want at the prices they are willing to pay. Thus, modern supply chains focus on the customer so that the supply chain needs to precisely gauge what a customer might want, how to package it and where to ship it. The internet supply chain is a means of communicating and doing business with suppliers and customers. Effective integration of an organisation’s supply chain can save millions, improve customer service and reduce inventories.

In this special issue, a discussion is sought on ways to improve the integration of supply chain strategy with overall corporate strategy.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Knowledge-Driven Product Innovation and Enterprise Management

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=539

Call for papers: Knowledge-Driven Product Innovation and Enterprise Management

A special issue of the International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology (IJCAT)

Important dates:

Submission of full paper before: 31 December 2007

Notification of acceptance before: 31 March 2008

Submission of final and revised manuscripts: 30 June 2008

Guest Editors:
Prof. Dr. J. Q. Yan and Prof. Dr. Henry X. G. Ming, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, P. R. of China, and
A/Prof. Dr. Yongsheng Ma, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Enterprises have faced great challenges in recent years from the aspects of delivering innovative products, increasing product complexity, competition throughout different product lifecycles, and dynamic changes in markets and supply chains fuelled by the pressure of time to market, globalisation and mass customisation. Knowledge based, systematic solutions for enterprise engineering integration and management have become an increasingly significant research focus. Although computer aided tools, such as CAD, CAE, CAPP, CAM, MRP, ERP and CRM, are commercially available, coherently integrated solutions for effective and efficient product innovation and enterprise operations are still lacking.

This special issue invites researchers to present original ideas, scientific methods, intelligent algorithms, innovative product design and development, product and process modelling, knowledge-based engineering solutions, computer system design, integration mechanisms, and application cases across different industrial sectors.

The focus of the issue is to highlight state-of-the-art research and applications in the field of knowledge-driven product innovation and enterprise management with particular reference to data modelling representation, algorithms, methodologies and techniques for enterprise engineering, covering product innovation management, new product development, product conceptualisation, design, manufacturing, product management, intelligent customer requirements and relations, risk management, decision support, resources management, supply chain management, change management, product lifecycle analysis and engineering, etc.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Advanced Theory and Technologies for Design, Manufacturing and Materials

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=538

Call for papers: Advanced Theory and Technologies for Design, Manufacturing and Materials

A special issue of the International Journal of Materials and Product Technology (IJMPT)

Important dates:

Deadline for Submission: 30 April 2007

Guest Editor: Professor Yang Ping, Jiangsu University, China

Research papers are invited for this IJMPT forthcoming special issue, whose purpose is to publish recent research outputs on product engineering employing advanced design theory, manufacturing technologies and materials technologies. By advanced concepts, we mean non-conventional techniques. In the last few decades, both academic literature and practice have put growing emphasis on the importance of advanced design, manufacturing and materials as a key factor in establishing durable competitive advantages in product engineering. The objective of the special issue is to provide a means for the publication and interchange of information, on an international basis, on all aspects of advanced theory and technologies for design, manufacturing and materials.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

15 November 2006

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management goes to 8 issues for 2007

Due to the popularity of the International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management (a sign of the times we live in?), the number of issues of this journal will increase to 8 in 2007, with a further increase likely for 2008. This is the 11th title to announce an increase in issues for 2007, with a further three having already decided to expand in 2008

Special issue: Measurement and management of intellectual capital

International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital v3(3) 2006 is a special issue: Theory and Practice in Measurement and Management of Intellectual Capital: International Experiences in Different Areas of Activity, Organisation and Social Frameworks. It covers diverse topics such as the origin and evolution of the concept of intellectual capital, models and basic methodologies of intellectual capital, conceptual relations in intellectual capital, knowledge management and organisational learning, experiences or main applications in different organisational models (profit and non-profit, private and public, etc.), and applications in cities, nations, regions and other social arrangements. Additionally, this issue covers future trends in the management and measurement of intellectual capital.

Special issue: Business, technology and competitive intelligence and science to business marketing

International Journal of Technology Intelligence and Planning v2(2) 2006 is a special issue: Business, Technology and Competitive Intelligence and Science to Business Marketing, with papers on science and technology marketing activity in Europe, Australia, Asia and South Africa.

Special issue: Information technology in emergency management systems

International Journal of Emergency Management v3(4) 2006 is a special issue: Information Technology in Emergency Management Systems, with 8 papers on decision support systems, modelling, ICT in training, databases, disaster information management, etc.

14 November 2006

Special issue: Global sourcing and e-procurement; Logistics and supply chain canagement

International Journal of Services Technology and Management v7(5/6) 2006 is a special issue in two parts. Part 1: Global Sourcing and E-Procurement has 6 papers on principles and applications of e-procurement. Part 2: Logistics and Supply Chain Management has 5 papers from ILSC2004: International Conference on International Logistics and the Supply Chain held in Brisbane, June 2004

11 November 2006

Special Issue on Non-destructive testing and failure preventive technology

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology v27(3/4) 2006 is a special issue on Non-Destructive Testing and Failure Preventive Technology, with 10 papers mostly the on theory and practice of ultrasonic and eddy current testing. There are also some book reviews.

Special issue: Renewable energy and distributed generation systems

International Journal of Global Energy Issues v26(3/4) 2006 is a special issue: Renewable Energy And Distributed Generation Systems, with 10 papers ranging from improvements to power quality in distribution systems to the prospects for renewable energy in India.

10 November 2006

Call for papers: Design Space Exploration and Optimisation in Product Development

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=537

Call for papers: Design Space Exploration and Optimisation in Product Development

A special issue of the International Journal of Product Development (IJPD)

Important Dates:

Submission of full paper: 15 August, 2007

Refereeing process and notification of acceptance: 15 December, 2007

Guest Editor: Dr. G. Gary Wang, The University of Manitoba, Canada and Dr. Bernard Yannou, Ecole Centrale Paris, France

Modern product development often involves complex analyses from multiple disciplines, consideration from product life-cycle aspects and making difficult trade-off decisions, and in the meantime achieving optimal product design at the lowest costs and in the shortest time. To systematically integrate various design perspectives to achieve the optimal design is a very challenging task. Such integration and optimisation capability is, however, still in great demand and could significantly benefit all manufacturing industries.

Design space exploration and optimisation is an important and often necessary step in product development. Research in this area has yielded many promising approaches and strategies. This special issue of IJPD aims at presenting the state-of-the-art in this area, and promoting further research in order to provide engineers with practical tools supporting integration and optimisation. The issue will focus on theories and methods on design space, space exploration, design evaluation, and design optimisation.
Potential readers to be addressed by this special issue are scientists in the fields of design optimisation, decision-based design, and design automation, as well as product development engineers and executives in manufacturing industries.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: High Performance Coatings for Metals and Plastics

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=536

Call for papers: High Performance Coatings for Metals and Plastics

A special issue of the International Journal of Surface Science and Engineering (IJSurfSE)

Important Dates:

Submission: 30 June 2007

Decision: 30 September 2007

Revised manuscripts: 31 December 2007

Guest Editor: Dr. Fabrizio Quadrini, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Italy

Coating engineering is increasingly a key factor for the development of new processes and products. There are two important ways of thinking about coatings. In the first case, the coating is the skin of a core material. Materials for coating and core can differ significantly and their combinations provide increased performance compared to the materials alone. A typical example is the hard coating of steel tools for machining. The skin hardness enhances tool life and machining tolerance whereas the core toughness is responsible for shock response and compliance.

The second way of viewing coatings is the way they are becoming one of the most important goals in the industrial practice. As the external surface is the link between the consumer and the product, the coating technology is becoming the way to give to poor materials the appearance of high performance materials. As a consequence, developments in coating performances produce new processes and new products and industrial demand is always increasing.

The performance of coatings has to be driven toward the highest levels. Many challenges still remain. Anti-scratch coatings for plastics and high-life tribological coatings for metals are only two examples. The goal of this special issue is to collect the main research experiences and innovations in the field of the coating engineering, both for organic and metallic substrates. Organic, metallic, ceramic and hybrid coatings are all of interest for the purpose of the special issue. Furthermore, submitted papers may deal with technological innovations, fabrication of new materials for coating, definition of new processes, techniques for coating characterisation and analysis.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: The Use of Analytical Tools for Service Management

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=535

Call for papers: The Use of Analytical Tools for Service Management

A special issue of the International Journal of Services Technology and Management (IJSTM)

Important Dates:

Full paper due: 28 February, 2007

Notification of acceptance: 30 April, 2007

Final version of the paper due: 31 May, 2007

Guest Editor: Dr. Hokey Min, Bowling Green State University, USA

As the service industry and service components of product bundling continue to grow and become more complex, today’s managers are faced with the challenge of developing more sophisticated yet cost-efficient ways to serve their customers. That is to say, many of today’s managers are seeking ways to improve the utilisation of company resources, while fostering and creating innovative services. Such a paradigm shift in service management often requires an increased use of analytical tools such as operations research techniques, queuing models, simulation, data mining, analytic hierarchy process (AHP), data envelopment analysis (DEA), and geographic information systems (GIS).

This special issue aims to bring together the recent advances in analytical tools and their innovative application to various aspects of service management such as hospital staff scheduling, emergency vehicle deployment, retail outlet location, restaurant service quality management, hotel service benchmarking, customer profiling, service outsourcing, and call center monitoring. Papers centred on building theory or based on actual case studies will be especially welcomed. Also, papers that synthesise the past development of analytical tools for service management and provide future research directions are strongly encouraged.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Rural Change: Re-Valorisation of Property Objects and the Institutionalisation of (New) Property Rights

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=534

Call for papers: Rural Change: Re-Valorisation of Property Objects and the Institutionalisation of (New) Property Rights

A special issue of the International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology (IJARGE)

Important Dates

Deadline for Submission: 30 April, 2007

Guest Editors: Marianne Penker, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Austria and Lutz Laschewski, University of Rostock, Germany

This special issue will address processes of institutionalisation in the context of fundamental social changes that currently can be observed globally. It will particularly draw upon the experiences in rural Europe, a context in which social scientists conceptualise current social dynamics as a shift from industrial to a post-industrial or knowledge society. A variety of economic, social and political processes has transformed social relations in the countryside (Marsden et al. 1993). The processes have effected massive changes not only in land use but also the economic, political and socio-cultural relations surrounding land.

One of the main causes of rural change is the transformation of agriculture and its relation to the countryside itself. The contribution of the agricultural sector to rural income and employment has been declining through recent decades (OECD 1998; Bryden and Bollmann 2000; Laschewski et al. 2002). Agricultural development has been increasingly separated from the overall rural economy and society (van der Ploeg 1990; Tovey 1998).

At the same time, the accelerating globalisation of agro-industrial corporations has reshaped the conditions for agriculture (Goodman and Redclift 1991; Watts 1996). Globalisation has changed the spatial order of agriculture (Bonanno and Bradley 1994). It has forced concentration tendencies of agricultural production in more favorable areas and marginalised producers in less favored areas, bringing about negative environmental externalities (European Commission 2000). New usages of nature and land emerge and processes of re-valorisation of rural property objects take place, which require the institutionalisation of new property rights and the redefinition and reshaping of former property rights.

The special issue draws on the general assumption that property offers a potent analytical framework to examine and compare contemporary processes of rural transformation and differentiation in Europe. Property research has been characterised by a separation into different research traditions, such as institutional economics, legal anthropology, law and sociology or political science. This issue, therefore, proposes a rather unique attempt to bridge the divide and to take advantage of the different research traditions for an innovative compilation of empirically founded papers on the revalorisation of property objects and the institutionalisation and redefinition of property rights in natural resource management, agriculture and rural land use.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Self-Directed Learning, Knowledge Management and Human Resource Development

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=533

Call for papers: Self-Directed Learning, Knowledge Management and Human Resource Development

A special issue of the International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management (IJHRDM)

Important Dates:

Submissions should be sent no later than: 31 May 2007

Guest Editors:
Lars Mitlacher, Mannheim, Germany
Michael Beitler, UNG at Greensboro, USA
Lucy Guglielmino and Paul Guglielmino, Florida Atlantic University, USA

The concept of self-directed learning has a long tradition. The most popular definition of self-directed learning (SDL) is that of Knowles who defines SDL as a process in which “individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies and evaluating learning outcomes“. Researchers have explored self-directed learning from a wide range of angles. However as the demands for lifelong learning continue to grow, a more complete understanding of self-direction in learning and the relationship between SDL and other research areas such as knowledge management or HR development is essential. Additionally, models for integrating the preparation for self directed learning in different areas are needed.

The special issue intends to serve as a forum for the most recent research results on self-direction in learning, new developments in the application of self-directed learning in diverse settings and professions, new insights on the relationship of self-directed learning and other fields like knowledge management, HR development and performance as well as suggestions on how to develop and strengthen self-directed learning propensities and abilities.

Papers should address aspects of self-directed learning focusing on the relationship between self-directed learning, knowledge management and HR development. However papers exploring the relationship between self-directed learning and other areas are also welcome.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Promotion and Management of International Sports

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=532

Call for papers: Promotion and Management of International Sports

A special issue of the International Journal of Sport Management and Marketing (IJSMM)

Important Dates:

Deadline for submission: 30 June, 2007

Guest Editor: Dr. Li Chen, Delaware State University, USA

International sport is one of the largest segments in sport industry. Current studies (e.g., Chelladurai, 2006; Pitts & Pedersen, 2005) indicated that there is dearth of research endeavour given to managing and promotion of international sports. As sport management represents a fast-growing discipline, the analytic effort of promoting and managing international sports (e.g., Olympic Games, World Cup) should not be underrepresented or overlooked.

The issues related to international sport management include managing Olympic Games, ethical and legal aspects, governance and policies of international sports, risk and financial management, political and economic impacts, facility and event management, marketing and promotion, as well as human resource management related to international sport organisations.

The aim of this special issue is to provide more opportunity and an outlet for researchers and practitioners to contribute to a scholarly body of knowledge on the promotion and management of Olympic events and international sport. Either quantitative analyses or qualitative studies are encouraged. Both theoretical research and empirical contributions are welcome.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

9 November 2006

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Public Services, Economics and Management

International Journal of Public Services, Economics and Management - to begin publication in 2008 - will foster discussion on empirical and theoretical work on public services, economics and management. The journal seeks to provide a bridge between those conducting research on public economics and management on the one hand, and those working in the areas of public services on the other. It will encourage original scientific contributions on the problems of public economics and management, with particular emphasis on the application of economic theory and management science and methods of quantitative analysis.

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management

International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management - to begin publication in 2008 - will reflect India's role in fast becoming one of the most important development centres in the world for software, IT outsourcing, R&D, biotechnology, customer contact, design, and other knowledge-based products and services. So given India’s place in the world economy and its contribution to large pool of manpower in the 21st century global enterprises, it is important to understand the Indian culture and management in order to be successful in business. IJICBM will act as a forum for exchange of new developments in Indian business environments both in terms opportunity and threats, and the implications of culture and political landscape on business enterprise.

8 November 2006

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Innovation and Regional Development

International Journal of Innovation and Regional Development - to begin publication in 2008 - proposes exploration of thought and discussion on regional dimensions of innovation and development. Due to the acceleration of technological development and adoption, and greater market competition, innovation is a prerequisite for enterprises to survive. Such innovation could be in the shape of new product development, new system adoption, web-based collaboration, e-learning, and so on. The span of innovation activity spreads not only in the manufacturing sector, but to the service sector as well.

Innovation takes place at the local, regional and international context, and often occurs under the spell of an entrepreneurial spirit and within small firms. Furthermore, joint venture for innovation does happen between firms. Joint partnerships for innovation at various levels create the need to investigate innovation in its regional context as well as understand its impact on the economy. Regional synergies for innovation are a dynamic way to advance an entity’s research performance; these studies lead to the establishment of best practices .

IJIRD will provide a multi-disciplinary forum for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers in the field of innovation and regional development, and a means for sharing findings that promote innovation and therefore enhance economic, technological and regional development through new economic activities that stimulate generation of wealth, employment and growth and increase competitiveness.

7 November 2006

Special issue: Application of artificial intelligence on environmental prediction

International Journal of Environment and Pollution v28(3/4) 2006 is a special issue: Application of Artificial Intelligence on Environmental Prediction, including papers on applications of expert systems, neural networks and genetic algorithms.

6 November 2006

World Sustainable Development Outlook 2006 now published

Inderscience is pleased to announce the publication of World Sustainable Development Outlook 2006: Proceedings of the International Conference on Global and Local Resources in Achieving Sustainable Development (WASD 2006). The publication may be purchased (online or in hard copy) for 160.00 Euros.

The World Sustainable Development Outlook series is developed to address growing concerns for the future of our inter-locked ecological, political and economic systems in a highly populated world that is characterised by major social and economic disparities. The main objective is to provide an overview of Sustainable Development (SD) and why it is important and to provoke forward thinking on the development of a more coherent approach to solving global problems related to sustainability.

5 November 2006

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation (IJMLO)

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation (IJMLO)

Inderscience announces the publication of this new journal.

As mobile devices are gradually converging into Individual Information Centres, mobile learning becomes a viable learning channel that would fit the living style of today. IJMLO is a refereed, multidisciplinary journal for bridging the latest advances in mobile learning and organisation. It provides a global forum for presenting authoritative references, academically rigorous research and case studies. The journal publishes well-written and academically validated manuscripts in both theoretical development and applied research.

Readership includes: IJMLO intends to attract professionals in business, government and technology fields to share their insight in new technologies and new applications. It will also attract researchers in the academia who work in the field of technology management, engineering and business education to disseminate information and to learn from each other's work.

ISSN (Online): 1746-7268
ISSN (Print): 1746-725X

Email: ijmlo@inderscience.com

Editor in Chief:
Prof. Jason C.H. Chen
Professor and Coordinator, Management Information Systems
Graduate School of Business
Gonzaga University
E. 502 Boone Ave
Spokane WA 99258
USA
chen@jepson.gonzaga.edu

Content available by subscription.

Abstracts available online. Articles available in HTML and PDF format.

Current Issue: Volume 1 No 1 2007

New journal: International Journal of Revenue Management (IJRM)

International Journal of Revenue Management (IJRM)

Inderscience announces the publication of this new journal.

The IJRM is an interdisciplinary and refereed journal that provides authoritative sources of reference and an international forum in the field of revenue management. IJRM publishes well-written and academically rigorous manuscripts. Both theoretic development and applied research are welcome.

Readership includes: Academics, researchers, managers, analysts, specialists, consultants, software developers and other professionals.

ISSN (Online): 1741-8186
ISSN (Print): 1474-7332

Email: ijrm@inderscience.com

Editor in Chief:
Prof. Jason C.H. Chen
Professor and Coordinator, Management Information Systems
Graduate School of Business
Gonzaga University
E. 502 Boone Ave
Spokane WA 99258
USA
chen@jepson.gonzaga.edu

Content available by subscription.

Abstracts available online. Articles available in HTML and PDF format.

Current Issue: Volume 1 No 1 2007

Call for papers: Intelligent System Design and Development

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=531

Call for papers: Intelligent System Design and Development

A special issue of the International Journal of Intelligent Systems Technologies and Applications (IJISTA)

Important Dates:
Paper due: 1 December, 2006
Acceptance Notification: 1 February, 2007
Final paper version due: 1 April, 2007

Guest Editor: Dr. Chefi Ketata, Dalhousie University, Canada.

This special issue of IJISTA deals with intelligent system design and development related technologies and applications, comprising various areas such as expert systems, fuzzy logic, neural networks, genetic algorithms, and hybrid systems. The aim is to provide an international forum for academics, industry leaders, and policy makers to investigate and exchange novel ideas and disseminate knowledge and information covering the broad range of intelligences from reasoning to decision-making.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Web-Based Approach to Design, Manufacturing and Life-Cycle Engineering

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=530

Call for papers: Web-Based Approach to Design, Manufacturing and Life-Cycle Engineering

A special issue of the International Journal of Internet Manufacturing and Services (IJIMS)

Important Dates:
Manuscripts should be submitted no later than: 31 December 2006
Notification of acceptance: end of February, 2007
Final camera ready copy submission: end of March, 2007

Guest Editor: Prof. Teruaki Ito, The University of Tokushima, Japan

The benefits of new and emerging technologies on internet/intranet-based systems, or web-based systems have become increasingly recognisable in recent years in many areas, including both industries and academia. These systems deal with internet-based trading, e-business, computer-aided collaborative design, computer-automated manufacturing, telematics, EDI and much more. Collectively, these technologies can significantly improve performance of all aspects of a manufacturers’ business including purchasing, logistics, inventory management, human resources and production planning/control, and make it possible to pursue concurrent engineering in production.

Indeed, all of these aspects are recognised in design and manufacturing, but are also significant in training and education, especially in project-based learning (PBL) programmes, where the goals of projects are achieved by teamwork with various view points in design and manufacturing.

The purpose of this special IJIMS issue is to promote and disseminate research that deals with web-based approaches to internet/intranet design, manufacturing and service problems. It will offer researchers and practitioners the most recent concepts, methodologies, and techniques in this important field of enquiry.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Automotive Product Development, Design and Engineering Process and Applications

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=529

Call for papers: Automotive Product Development, Design and Engineering Process and Applications

A special issue of the International Journal of Product Development (IJPD)

Important Dates:
Submission of draft manuscripts: 1 March 2007
Notification to authors: 1 June 2007
Final versions due: 1 October 2007

Guest Editors: Dr. Pingfang Tsai, Ford Motor Company, USA and Dr. Robert C. Creese, West Virginia University, USA.

If the mantra is “product, product, product”, then lean product development (PD) and management is crucial to deliver the right, cool product to market at the right price. Although each automaker may have adopted a uniquely different approach, the goals are the same: fast delivery of the quality product that the customer wants.

Contributions are invited to this special issue of IJPD that attempts to disseminate the essential practices used by the automotive industry for product development from concept to design and engineering, to prove out, to production and to sales. The lean PD practices include implementing lean principles in every stage of the PD process and management along with the tools and methodologies used to achieve product programme delivery with fast and more products to market, minimum costs and meeting customers' satisfactions and desires.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Health Fitness Management: The Road to Wellbeing and Profits

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=528

Call for papers: Health Fitness Management: The Road to Wellbeing and Profits

A special issue of the International Journal of Sport Management and Marketing (IJSMM)

Important date:
Submissions should be sent no later than: 31 March, 2007

Guest Editors:
Professor Carlos Pestana Barros and Professor Abel Correia, Technical University of Lisbon, Portugal.
Professor Michel Desbordes, ISC Business School and University of Strasbourg, France.

This special issue aims to attract high quality research on a specific management issue: the management of the health fitness centre. This is a contemporary profit-oriented organisation that appears in all city and towns. Despite its relative importance in employment of sport students, and its contribution to the health and wellbeing of the citizens, scarce research has been conducted in this issue.

The present special issue aims to fill this void. Researchers are invited to focus on important issues related to the management of health fitness centres.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Nanotechnology for Medical and Surgical Applications

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=525

Call for papers: Nanotechnology for Medical and Surgical Applications

A special issue of the International Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology (IJBET)

Important Dates:
One page proposal deadline: 28 February, 2007
Paper submission deadline: 31 May, 2007
Review results and notification: 31 August, 2007
Submission of Revised Papers: 31 October, 2007
Final Acceptance of Papers: 15 December, 2007

Guest Editors: Suresh Chalasani, University of Wisconsin-Parkside, USA and Panduranga Rao Koritala, Spark Biotech, USA

Nanotechnology is playing an increasingly major role in the healthcare industry. Examples include the use of nano-particles in cancer therapy and targeted drug delivery systems. Nanotechnology is also widely issued in tissue engineering applications.

This special issue is expected to provide a comprehensive overview of research and implementation issues of nanotechnologies in the medical field and is targeted for an audience of both researchers as well as practitioners. It will highlight key issues relating to medical, diagnostic and surgical applications of nanotechnology.

The papers are expected to discuss the current status and future prospects so that researchers can formulate new research topics related to nanotechnology. Practitioners and business personnel should be able to use the articles published in this special issue to gain foresight on the implementation of nanotechnology.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

Call for papers: Information Processing in Intelligent Vehicles and Road Applications

http://www.inderscience.com/browse/callpaper.php?callID=527

Call for papers: Information Processing in Intelligent Vehicles and Road Applications

A special issue of the International Journal of Intelligent Information and Database Systems (IJIIDS)

Important Dates:
Manuscript due: 31 May, 2007
First Notification: 30 June, 2007
Second Notification: 31 August, 2007
Final manuscript due: 30 September, 2007

Nowadays, transportation systems present a key role in almost every aspect of our lives. In particular, the road sector has experienced the largest development in the recent years, both in the goods and passengers sectors. In the European Union, its main role in a market with 375 millions of users, and the high number of accidents per year, costing 45,000 deaths and 160 billion euros per year, has led the European Commission to declare the development of intelligent vehicles for roads one of the key sectors for the future of Europe.

Safety applications, such as collision avoidance and emergency management, driver assistance systems, roadpricing, detailed digital maps, traveller information and mobile services, are just a few of the interesting road applications on which the researchers are currently focused. To ensure a good performance of these applications, appropriate processing of the information in the vehicle at different levels of knowledge representation is needed. Papers presenting original contributions pertinent to problem solving support and information processing in intelligent vehicles in roads are sought for this special issue of the IJIIDS journal. We aim to uncover the potential of advanced intelligent technologies as applied to modern transportation systems. New and original research and technogical developments presenting innovative approaches, methodologies, architectures and implementations in this field are invited.

For more information, please see the Journal Call for Papers website.

3 November 2006

Newly announced journal: International Journal of Applied Cryptography

Current journals in information and computer security tend to deal either with pure theory or with specific areas.International Journal of Applied Cryptography - to begin publication in 2008 - aims to cover topics in between these areas. It will foster discussion on cryptographic algorithms and protocols that are directly applicable