A multiple narrative approach to information systems failure: a successful system that failed

We discuss the introduction of an information system where the dominant coalition claimed project success. While the key users did not use the system as intended and the project goals were not achieved, the project committee reported success to the top management board. Using a multi-methodological approach, we can follow how different stakeholders attributed different meanings to the system introduced over time. The rhetorical tools used are analysed using a narrative methodology. We draw on the social construction of technology and use the concept of relevant social groups to understand the different interests influencing the organisational dynamics. We complement this approach by employing the concepts of organisational power and cultural fit between the new system and the different subcultures. We found that this multiple approach explains well how the acceptance of the new software processes was interpreted differently within the organisation, and also by the software supplier. Although limited, our case study reveals the process of socially constructing the success or failure of an information system using this multiple research approach. We compare our results with the literature on IS failures and we consider the value of combining constructionist and critical approaches through a narrative methodology.     

2,2 bis (4-ethynylphenyl) hexafluoropropane

Summary The 2,2 bis(4-ethynylphenyl)hexafluoropropane is prepared via an original synthesis's process using a substitution of 2,2 bis(4-triflatephenyl) hexafluoropropane by trimethylsilyl acetylene. In this process ZnO is used to remove the triflate anion formed during the reaction.This diacetylenic compound melts at 37–38°C, exhibits an onset of polymerization at 120°C. After thermal treatment at 250°C, the obtained network shows a softening point at 300°C. This network remains stable in air up to 435°C.     

Comparison of glycemic index of spelt and wheat bread in human volunteers

The assessment of the glycemic index (GI) seems to be an important parameter to take into account in order to better understand the physiologic effects of foods with high carbohydrate levels. Among cereals, which are major sources of carbohydrates, spelt (Triticum spelta L.) has been considered as particularly interesting from a nutritional point of view. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo the GI of white spelt bread in healthy subjects. The wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) white bread was used as reference food. To avoid differences in the production of both breads, spelt and wheat breads were baked under the same controlled conditions. Results showed that the glycemic profile of spelt white bread was not different from that of wheat white bread (GI of 93 ± 9). The area under the glycemic curve significantly and negatively correlated to fasting glycemia and carbohydrate intake during evening meals preceding the test. In conclusion, the glycemic response to spelt bread was similar to that of wheat bread. However, in order to avoid more inter-individual variability, our data supports the importance to propose standardised carbohydrate content for the last meal before evaluating the GI of food.     

Effects of alcohol on psychophysiological hyperreactivity to nonaversive and aversive stimuli in men at high risk for alcoholism.

Psychophysiological reactivity to nonaversive (1-KHz, 70-db tones) and aversive stimuli (shock) was examined in nonalcoholic men with multigenerational family histories (MFH) of alcoholism and family history negative (FH–) men, while sober and after consuming alcohol. In comparison with FH– Ss, sober MFH Ss had significantly larger skin conductance (SC) orienting responses (ORs), shorter OR latencies, slower habituation rates to the tones, and larger increases in heart rate and vasoconstriction to the shock. Alcohol dampened the magnitude of the SC-OR to the tones and the degree of cardiovascular reactivity to the shocks and increased the habituation rate to the tones in MFH Ss only. Alcohol consumption also increased the SC-OR recovery time in FH– Ss only. The MFH Ss' pattern of psychophysiological hyperreactivity is discussed in terms of a potential dysfunction in stimulus–response regulation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Near-Field Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy in Porous Silicon

First results of an Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy in the Near Field (NFEELS) mode of n⁺ porous silicon are described here. Sequences of EELS spectra in the low loss energy range (0–30 eV) were recorded, using a scanning transmission electron microscope, as the e-beam was scanned across a nano-hole surrounded by Si platelets. This technique is shown to be very sensitive to spectral and spatial changes in the electromagnetic field distribution outside the surface of nanoparticles, governed by their local nature and shape.     

Traduction et validation canadienne-fran?aise du Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form.

The authors have translated the Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form (Nisonger CBRF) into French. The resulting Grillee d'évaluation comportementale pour enfants Nisonger (GéCEN) was completed by 383 parents and 328 teachers. The congruence coefficients between the factor structure obtained from the Québec data and that obtained from the American data are also presented. Except for the congruence coefficient for the irritability scale from the GéCEN-teacher, the congruence coefficients for the parent and teacher profiles exhibit a good level of factor stability between the Nisonger CBRF, and the GéCEN. The internal consistency indicators are good to excellent for the GéCEN-parent and the GéCEN-teacher. The clinical applications of this dual diagnosis assessment tool (mental retardation and psychopathology) among children and teenagers are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)