Introduction and Framework for Understanding

This chapter opens with a description of the empirical realities that shape and have shaped many women's choice to sell sex – realities which have remained constant for some time now. It provides two frameworks for understanding, first, the shifting discourses that currently constitute prostitution, and second, prostitution policies. The chapter also provides a narrative framework in which recent policy changes can be placed.

A capability framework visualisation for multiple heterogeneous UAVs : from a mission commander's perspective

There is an increased interested in Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations and research into advanced methods for commanding and controlling multiple heterogeneous UAVs. Research into areas of supervisory control has rapidly increased. Past research has investigated various approaches of autonomous control and operator limitation to improve mission commanders' Situation Awareness (SA) and cognitive workload. The aim of this paper is to address this challenge through a visualisation framework of UAV information constructed from Information Abstraction (IA). This paper presents the concept and process of IA, and the visualisation framework (constructed using IA), the concept associated with the Level Of Detail (LOD) indexing method, the visualisation of an example of the framework. Experiments will test the hypothesis that, the operator will be able to achieve increased SA and reduced cognitive load with the proposed framework.

Organisational knowledge integration: towards a conceptual framework

This study analyses organisational knowledge integration processes from a multi-level and systemic perspective, with particular reference to the case of Fujitsu. A conceptual framework for knowledge integration is suggested focusing on team-building capability, capturing and utilising individual tacit knowledge, and communication networks for integrating dispersed specialist knowledge required in the development of new products and services. The research highlights that knowledge integration occurring in the innovation process is a result of knowledge exposure, its distribution and embodiment and finally its transfer, which leads to innovation capability and competitive advantage in firm.

Vastu Purusha Mandala : A human ecological framework for designing living environments

This paper aims to present ‘vastu purusha mandala’(VPM), a symbolic diagram used in the indigenous system of Indian architecture as a human ecologic frame work for designing living environments. The article begins with an attempt to provide a working definition for the ‘living environment’ based on the theories developed by Rapoport (2005) and Lawrence (2001). It then discusses the symbolism and the human ecologic significance of VPM. This is substantiated through the works of Kramrisch (1976), Moore (1989), Shukla (1996) and Chakrabarthi (1998). Some recent papers on Vastu Shastra are also examined. Furthermore, VPM is compared with the livability guidelines developed for high-rise living by the Centre for Subtropical Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. A meaningful interpretation of vastushastra which is free from mysticism and symbolism is proffered through this paper.