Properties of KCo2_2As2_2 and Alloys with Fe and Ru: Density Functional Calculations

Electronic structure calculations are presented for KCo$_2$As$_2$ and alloys with KFe$_2$As$_2$ and KRu$_2$As$_2$. These materials show electronic structures characteristic of coherent alloys, with a similar Fermi surface structure to that of the Fe-based superconductors, when the $d$ electron count is near six per transition metal. However, they are less magnetic than the corresponding Fe compounds. These results are discussed in relation to superconductivity.Comment: 5 page

Electronic structure of Ba(Fe,Ru)2As2 and Sr(Fe,Ir)2As2 alloys

The electronic structures of Ba(Fe,Ru)$_2$As$_2$ and Sr(Fe,Ir)$_2$As$_2$ are investigated using density functional calculations. We find that these systems behave as coherent alloys from the electronic structure point of view. In particular, the isoelectronic substitution of Fe by Ru does not provide doping, but rather suppresses the spin density wave characteristic of the pure Fe compound by a reduction in the Stoner enhancement and an increase in the band width due hybridization involving Ru. The electronic structure near the Fermi level otherwise remains quite similar to that of BaFe$_{2}$As$_{2}$. The behavior of the Ir alloy is similar, except that in this case there is additional electron doping

eTime

The paper examines various measures of time and argues that none of the measures meet the needs of commerce and law for transactions carried out in the cyberspace. It therefore suggests that a new measure of the time and epoch, called eTime be introduced. The paper further suggests that the assumed zero of eTime should be the epoch of signing ‘A Declaration of Independence of Cyberspace’, i.e. Fri, Feb 9, 1996 17:16:35 +0100 at Davos, Switzerland.

Globalization and Consumer Choice

Based on simple examples, the note highlights the inadequate provisions in policy and law for promoting competition and consumer choice in the market place. Thus contrary to promise, globalization is limiting consumer choice while simultaneously fuelling prices. If the trend continues, the note argues, the country will be left with just a couple of big players for various consumer products with mock competition battles in the advertisement arena with song and dance. Meanwhile the issues of hunger, literacy and primary health will get pushed back further. Given the inevitability and irreversibility of the globalization process, the note highlights the need to put in place laws and policies that promote a fair competition while also protecting the small niche players.

Indian Political Environment: Democracy and a Citizens Right to Influence Government

The paper focuses on the prevailing political environment in the country and the influence it has on a citizen. It deals with the issues related to the role of executive, judiciary and legislature with regard to the functioning of democracy in the country. It suggests several structural re-arrangements and makes recommendations for the improvement of the general political environment. The paper is written as the possible reading in the IPSE course.

Indian Electorate in Search of a Government

Based on the results of general elections since formation of the Republic, the paper identifies two key issues facing Indian democracy. The inability of the present choice process under the constitution to provide a stable platform to the Prime Minister and his Cabinet. The inadequate recognition of the federal character of the nation and inability of the system to accommodate regional aspirations of people in various states. The paper further predicts that in the foreseeable future, barring unusual events, the country is unlikely to have a one party government or even a manageable coalition of a few compatible partners. The paper recommends a review of the constitution to address these issues. It further suggests that the opportunity of constitutional review can be utilised, at the minimum, to fine tune the system, and at best, to explore alternatives in democracy.

Agenda for Change before the Republic of India

Based on the electoral history of past 13 General Elections in the country, the paper argues that while the electorate has been pushing the political parties towards coalitions and grand alliances, the same are unlikely to be stable or effective. It proposes that long with the constitutional reforms for the choice of a leader and longevity and stability of the government, the opportunity should be utilized to resolve other issues that have come to the fore in the Indian democracy. Towards this end, the paper proposes an agenda for change before the Republic of India that includes apart from the various provisions of the constitution, the issues that have rocked the nation and steps needed to meet the future challenge.

Globalization Work and Management

Major changes are occurring in the sphere of work and management. While there is emergence of new time based and information based opportunities, some traditional office and business work opportunities are shrinking. Simultaneously, there is recognition of a new type of “Permanently Temporary” Employment that is a pointer to the need for employment laws that take into account new work realities. On a larger plane, changes are also occurring in trade and business world. A few truly global organizations have emerged. However, organizations that operate in 30-40 or 10-20 countries are many, and are beginning to encounter the problem of operating in international environment. Use of values and social concerns have become the new element in protection of markets in addition to the traditional concern for quality and the recent concern for environment. There is a shifting of polluting industries to new environments resulting in environmental hazards where none existed and a major shift in the job market around the globe. National economies are also shifting from industrial to service and information economies. Another major change is linked with the development of distance learning opportunities and a move towards a universal language. This is influencing not only the way education is imparted but also nature and management of educational institutions thus forcing organizations to rethink their human resource development and learning strategies. At the core of all these changes is a major technological breakthrough – in satellite imaging, communication, computing, high speed travel and transport technologies. This explosion of Technology has resulted in new competition giving older organizations very little response time. Emergence of the new slim and trim organizations have forced unions to change focus from wages and benefits to protection of jobs. Since both work and technology are changing at a fast pace, the sphere of management has also been affected. In some ways control and unity of command are under revision and calls for a reassessment of the management theory and practice. The paper concludes with a discussion of the challenges ahead before the business world and developing societies.

Application of communication satellites to educational programs

Educational services which telecommunications satellites can provide and the design of systems used to deliver these services to the user are discussed