The papers in this volume present theoretical aspects and applications of artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms. Also included are papers on fuzzy logic, soft computing, and artificial intelligence.Fundamental issues are addressed, such as the nonlinear approximation capabilities of neural networks and formal methods of data representation with topological properties. New elements in genetic algorithms are presented, for example, crossover methods and gene representation.Papers on applications of neural networks show how successful these methods are in a wide range of fields like meteorological and atmospheric pollution forecasts, furnace control, and system identification. Genetic algorithms are used to solve optimization problems related to shipping and computer vision. Fuzzy-logic-based techniques are applied to sociodynamic models and hybrid neuro-fuzzy models.