We recently determined the values of intrinsic spin-orbit (SO) parameters for In0.52Al0.48As/In0.53Ga0.47As(10 nm)/In0.52Al0.48As (InGaAs/InAlAs) quantum wells (QW), lattice-matched to (001) InP, from the weak localization/antilocalization analysis of the low-temperature magneto-conductivity measurements [1]. We have then studied the subband energy spectra for the InGaAs/InAlAs double QW system from beatings in the Shubnikov de Haas (SdH) oscillations. The basic properties obtained here for the double QW system provides useful information for realizing nonmagnetic spin-filter devices based on the spin-orbit interaction [2].

The use of computers with private networks has accelerated the electronic storage of business information in office systems. With the rapid progress in processing capability and small sizing of the computer world, private networks are going to be more intelligent. The utilization of shared information is a key issue in modern organizations, in order to increase the productivity of white-collar workers. In the CSCW research field, it is said that informal and unstructured information is important in group work contexts but difficult to locate in a large organization. Many researchers are paying particular attention to the importance of support systems for such information. These kinds of information are called Organizational memory or Group Memory. Our research focuses on knowledge propagation with private networks in the organization. This means emphasis on the process; with which organized information or the ability to use information is circulated throughout the organization. Knowledge propagation has three issues: knowledge transmission, destination locating and source locating. To cope with these issues we developed FISH, which stands for Flexible Information Sharing and Handling system. FISH was designed to provide cooperative information sharing in a group work context and to explore knowledge propagation. FISH stores fragmental information as cards with multiple keywords and content. This paper discusses a three-layered model that describes computer supported knowledge transmission. Based on this model, three issues are discussed regarding knowledge propagation. FISH and its two-year experiment are described and knowledge propagation is explored based on the results of this experiment.

We propose a method for preventing smartphone theft when the owner dozes off. The owner of the smartphone wears a wristwatch type device that has an acceleration sensor and a vibration mode. This device detects when the owner dozes off. When the acceleration sensor in the smartphone detects an accident while dozing, the device vibrates. We implemented this function and tested its usefulness.