NCube/papyrus huggingface dataset:
Use of a novel peripheral nerve conduit to support sciatic nerve regeneration in an animal model

Background: Synthetic nerve conduits constitute alternative surgical options to autografts in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Silk polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) as a biomaterial and novel conduit designs have been proposed to improve peripheral nerve regeneration. In my master’s project, my objective is to assess whether silk PEM can improve peripheral nerve regeneration in vivo and to assess whether our novel conduit design (“jelly roll”) can better support rat sciatic nerve regeneration than a hollow conduit design. Methods: In this study, an in vivo rat model of sciatic nerve laceration and repair was used. Five experimental conduit conditions (autograft, hollow conduit with and without silk PEM, and jelly roll with and without silk PEM) were implanted (n=2 rats per condition). After 4 weeks, the conduits were harvested and immuno-stained for neurofilament and myelin basic protein (MBP). Conduit performance was assessed by its ability to support axonal outgrowth throughout the conduit’s length and at various locations along its width. Results: Each condition supported axonal regeneration at varying levels of success. Overall, the autograft group outperformed all other groups by supporting the longest and widest occupying regenerating fibers. Conduits with silk PEM performed similarly to conduits without silk PEM. In addition, the hollow conduit design demonstrated better regenerative outcomes than the jelly roll design. Conclusion: The autograft remains the superior conduit to support peripheral nerve regeneration. Conduits with silk PEM support nerve regeneration in the same capacity as non silk-coated conduits while the jelly roll design underperformed in comparison to the hollow conduit design.

Keyphrases: peripheral nerve regeneration, nerve autograft, silk polyelectrolyte multilayer, jelly roll, peripheral nerve surgery, peripheral nerve injuries, axonal outgrowth
Experiences of accessing mental health services among homeless youth : differences between linguistic majority and linguistic minority youth

Background: Most mental illnesses begin in youth. The homeless youth population reports a high level of unmet mental health needs; a situation which is possibly worse for linguistic minority homeless youths.  Objectives: To describe the factors associated with homeless youths’ experiences of accessing mental health services and to highlight differences in such experiences between linguistic majority (Francophones) and linguistic minority (Anglophones and Allophones) groups.  Methods: 22 youths between 18 to 25 years old participated in community mapping, an arts-based qualitative research method in which participants draw maps of resources they use to receive help with their mental health. Discussion groups enabled youths to express their emotions and perceptions towards access and services. Thematic analysis was user on verbal and visual data.  Results: Factors associated with of access to mental health services were grouped into two categories: (1) care adapted at the individual level, and (2) availability and structure of services. Homeless youths need services that are adapted to the specific needs of homeless youths and minorities (including linguistic minorities), with an approach to care centered on an individual’s needs. Linguistic minority homeless youths identify less diversity in services and often turn to informal mental health strategies or to adult-oriented homeless services.  Conclusion: Services that are co-located and integrated with mental health and basic needs services help bypass a lot of identified barriers to care for homeless youths. Particular attention needs to be paid to linguistic minority homeless youths as they experience more barriers than their counterparts.

Keyphrases: homeless youth, access to mental health services, qualitative research, community mapping
Variations diurnes dans l’abondance et la vitesse de synthèse de protéines chez le dinoflagellé Lingulodinium

Industrialization and globalization has led to industrial eutrophication in many regions of the oceans resulting in different types of ecological emergencies. One of these is the uncontrolled proliferation of dinoflagellates which are responsible for the harmful algal blooms called “red tides”. Certain species release toxins which can harm aquatic flora and fauna and, through consumption of contaminated fish or seafood, can affect public health. Dinoflagellates are also at the base of the food chain in the marine environment, and certain species form symbioses with anthozoans thus allowing growth of coral reefs. There is thus a strong need for fundamental research on dinoflagellate biology. Using the dinoflagellate Lingulodinium polyedra as a model, we have examined how cells adapt to the daily changes in light and dark. In particular we have examined changes in protein amounts as well as changes in protein synthesis rates to gain insight into how cells differ during the day and night. In a first project, the daily proteome was examined by mass spectrometry using algae extracts harvested over a 24 hour cycle in conditions of 12 hours of day followed by 12 hours of night. Key proteins involved in biological rhythms have shown quantitative variations synchronized with the times of the biological rhythms involving them, ie a quantitative increase in key proteins is necessary for the accomplishment of the various cellular processes. Thirteen proteins were identified, of which two were previously documented to change in amount over the daily cycle. In a second project we addressed the origin of these quantitative protein variations. By applying the technique of ribosome profiling on algal samples, first collected in triplicate at three times and then at two hour intervals throughout the 24 h cycle, we have identified iv variations in the synthesis rate of thousands of proteins. These include the proteins found in the proteomic analysis as well as four proteins whose synthesis rate variations had already been observed using in vivo metabolic labeling. Interestingly, classification of the regulated proteins into GO categories also revealed a late night increase in the synthesis of many amino acid biosynthetic enzymes, potentially linking amino acid synthesis associated with the daily metabolism of nitrate. These advances in our understanding of the regulation of the daily rhythms of the dinoflagellate Lingulodinium will provide new tools in the ecological fight against red tides. They may also open new perspectives in understanding the daily rhythms of other organisms.

Keyphrases: Lingulodinium polyedra, Dinoflagellate, Ribosome profiling, Proteome, Biological rhythms, Translation
Outil d'évaluation de l'innovation responsable en santé : fiabilité et facilité d’utilisation

Abstract Introduction: Responsible innovation in health is a growing field of research that aims to contribute to better governance of health systems. There are currently very few tools to support its operationalization and the choices stakeholders in the health field make. Objectives: The objectives of this research project are to assess the reliability of a Responsible Innovation in Health (RIH) screening and assessment Tool and how its reliability may be increased during its application. Methods: The mixed methods study design is based on the quantitative evaluation of the reliability of the Tool by means of a measure of interrater agreement and on the development and evaluation of a user guide aiming to increase the usability of the Tool. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with (n = 6) participants, in order to highlight the points of convergence and divergence concerning the user guide. Results: The Gwet coefficients calculated for the interrater agreement vary between 0.693 and 1, which means that the agreement varies from “substantial” to “perfect”. Participants’ comments indicated that the user guide was comprehensive in terms of the information presented, although somewhat redundant. Recommendations are suggested in order to revise the guide. Conclusion: This project contributes to public health by producing useful knowledge on the application of tools by interdisciplinary teams. The IRS Tool, whose reliability is now better known, may also, in the longer term, encourage responsible health initiatives.

Keyphrases: public health, responsible innovation, responsible innovation in health, reliability, usability, tool
Les barrières persistantes limitant l’accès des femmes aux soins de santé reproductive et à la planification familiale dans un contexte de gratuité des soins au Burkina Faso

On June 1, 2016, the national user fee exemption policy has been introduced in Burkina Faso. It aims to reduce maternal mortality by improving access to healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. This policy has increased the number of women attending reproductive health centres, however other barriers could still prevent women from seeking healthcare. These barriers are, first, the poor quality of relationships between women and healthcare providers, and second, women’s lack of decision-making power in matters of reproductive health and family planning. Our study aims to describe these two potential barriers in the context of free healthcare in Burkina Faso. We carried out a descriptive qualitative study in rural areas. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus groups from Burkinabe women of childbearing age, their husbands, and key informants. Our results show, on one hand, that relationships with healthcare providers and quality of care at health centres are perceived as satisfactory by women. On the other hand, while the user fee exemption policy seems to be effective in improving access to reproductive care and family planning, social norms seem to limit women’s decision-making power. In view of these results, courses of action could be imagined to improve the decision making power of women regarding reproductive health and family planning.

Keyphrases: Burkina Faso, Decision-making power, Family planning, National user fee exemption policy, Provider-patient relationship, Reproductive health
Liens entre activité physique quotidienne et utilisation de l’automobile comme moyen de transport : une étude transversale montréalaise

Background: Car usage reduction has previously been pointed out to be a population-based intervention promoting physical activity. Previous literature on the car usage-physical activity relation typically uses categorical variables for transport modes, rarely accounts for trip purpose and does not explore the influence of home location on this association. This study uses both self-reported and objectively measured physical activity to test the association between car usage and total daily physical activity, while accounting for previous limitations. Methods: INTERACT data collected in 2018-2019 among 780 participants from the Montreal metropolitan area site were analysed. Linear regression models of self-reported (log-transformed) and objectively measured total moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were built separately, as a function of car usage. Trip purpose was then included in these models. Finally, a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model was built to explore the spatial variation of the car usage-MVPA association. Results: The proportion of trips made by car showed a negative association with both self-reported (coefficient: -0.009, 95% CI [-0.012, -0.006]) and objectively measured (coefficient: -0.29 minutes per day, 95% CI [-0.55, -0.03]) total MVPA. GWR showed little spatial variation in the car usage-total self-reported MVPA. The number of trips toward certain purposes (e.g. “shops and services”) is associated with total MVPA. Conclusion: This cross-sectional study showed a negative association between car usage and total MVPA in the Montreal metropolitan area. Some trip purpose is associated with total physical activity.

Keyphrases: Physical activity, Transportation mode, Car usage, Trip purpose, Built environment, Geographically weighted regression
La transition de carrière chez les artistes du cirque : une étude de cas du Cirque du Soleil

Career transition is a phenomenon inherent in the performing arts and particularly in the circus arts. The often constrained nature of the career transition and the difficulty for those who undertake it, are considered major issues for all circus actors. However, few studies have looked at the dynamics of career transition in the circus arts. At the time when the COVID-19 pandemic is forcing employers to suspend circus performances, the reflection on a possible professional reorientation comes earlier in their career in comparison to artists who worked before the pandemic. In January 2021, 94% of circus artists considered having another career, according to the national grouping of circus arts En Piste. Highlighting the factors of the artistic profession that lead circus artists to undertake a career transition, is what this original research offers. Thus, we conducted a qualitative survey including 14 Cirque du Soleil artists. We have observed, heeded and comprehended the representations and perceptions of artists regarding their career. During the interviews conducted between January and November 2020, we collected valuable and revealing data to identify the main triggers for this transition. We have thus shown that artists leave the scene relatively early in their career. The combination of several factors such as the chronology over time, the risk of injury which increases by age, the very particular working conditions of circus artists, the work / family balance, the self-exclusion of women in comparison to their peers, the emotional exhaustion or even the exceptional context of COVID-19, contribute to the fact that artists leave the scene relatively early in their professional artistic pathway. Thus, this work aims to understand the work of circus artists who have made a career transition or are about to make it.

Keyphrases: artistic work, circus arts, career transition
L’autonomie décisionnelle des gestionnaires des filiales des entreprises multinationales et ses déterminants multiniveaux

This thesis examines the decision-making autonomy of managers within the subsidiaries of multinational companies. While acknowledging the impact of subsidiary autonomy on innovation and creating and maintaining local jobs, this research examines its multilevel determinants. It suggests going beyond traditional explanations of decision-making autonomy, often at institutional and organizational levels, by exploring the individual determinants of subsidiaries' senior managers. These managers' profils, more specifically, their identities, are studied in this thesis in connection with their decision-making autonomy in terms of human resources policies and practices. In order to build our multilevel conceptual model, three major theoretical approaches were used: the neo-institutional, the resources, and the strategic analysis approaches. These three approaches allow us to study managers' decision-making autonomy as a concept simultaneously embedded in a specific institutional structure, dependent on organizational resources and negotiated by individual actors according to their identities. The methodological approach is qualitative. Ten case studies of senior managers of subsidiaries from two French multinational companies were analyzed. Much of the data was collected through information and communication technologies without any geographic space limitation. The database consists of 40 semi-structured interviews with senior managers of multinational companies, mainly responsible for the HR function and hundreds of internal documents, organizational reports, and press reviews. These data were coded and analyzed. Our study's results provide five contributions to the study of the decision-making autonomy of subsidiary managers. 1. The concept of autonomy is multifaceted, dynamic and varies in terms of multinational companies, HR policies, and managers. 2. It benefits from being studied at the level of the subsidiary managers and by a multilevel and multi-theory framework. 3. National institutions and organizational structures are essential but not sufficient determinants of managers' decision-making autonomy. 4. These managers' identities, such as gender, professional, organizational, and country of origin, contribute to a better understanding of autonomy. Individual actors always have a margin the maneuver, even in the most centralized structures. 5. It is the combination of these different multilevel factors that is decisive. This research prompts senior managers of subsidiaries in charge of HR policies and practices to rethink their role within the multinational company and in terms of HR policies and practices. With the rise of management standardization projects within multinational companies and to gain more autonomy, they must review and update their professional identities and organizational identification while remaining open to international experience.

Keyphrases: Subsidiary managers, Decision-making autonomy, HR policies and practices, Actor identities, Multinational companies, Transnational managerial projects
Le sentiment de présence en réalité virtuelle, rôle modérateur des facteurs humains sur la performance

Virtual reality has emerged as a new paradigm for research and scientific applications. The ability of this technology to simulate complex custom-made situations offers researchers the opportunity to study behaviours with a laboratory methodological control and an ecological dimensions. The latter is made possible by the emergence of the feeling (or “sense”) of presence, the sensation of "being there", a phenomenon at the heart of in virtuo studies. The present work is part of a meth-odological and fundamental framework aimed at advancing the emergence of a body of knowledge on virtual reality and its sense of presence. The global understanding of the sense of presence remains very limited, especially with regard to its links with performance in virtual reality. Whether it is for diagnostic purposes or for the investigation of human behaviour, the question of the relationship between the sense of presence and performance is crucial: if presence promotes performance, for example by increasing scores during a neuropsychological test, it becomes a systematic bias inherent to the tool that must be controlled in any rigorous experiment. This ques-tion remains little studied in the literature, mostly because it is complexified by the interactions between a whole set of adjacent variables – gender, cybersickness, cognitive style, video game experience  – but also because performance can take many different forms, making it particularly difficult to infer directional causality. In order to explore this question, the present work proposes three experiments on three different types of evaluation: executive functions, spatial cognition, semantic learning. The data collected in this way is also the object of transversal analyses de-signed to compare the experiments. Together, these results seem to suggest the existence of two components of virtual reality. The first, the cognitive profile, is made up of individual human factors interacting with system factors – notably the degree of integration of the task into the virtual envi-ronment – to build the second, the user experience. The sense of presence and performance, but also their relationship depends on the user experience. This model, presented in conclusion, is discussed with regard to different theoretical approaches to cognition, notably the ecological and computational theories. This discussion makes it possible to draw up a list of recommendations and perspectives for virtual reality users, including the possibilities of estimating a priori the user experience of an individual immersed in virtual reality.

Keyphrases: immersion, interaction homme-machine, Neuropsychological evaluation, Virtual environments, Human-computer interaction, Cybersickness, Video games, Field dependence, Cognitive style, Gender, Attentional resources
Étude de la faisabilité d'une recherche de nouvelle physique dans l'expérience ATLAS à l'aide d'un auto-encodeur variationnel

Since the discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012, particle physicists are searching for signs of new physics. Although the standard model describing forces and particles has been confirmed by experiments like ATLAS at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), it only describes 5% of the matter of the universe. Facing the absence of excess in searches for new physics model, artificial intelligence could be the solution. This master thesis is part of a novel general model-independent search for new physics in the ATLAS detector data using machine learning. Here, we are interested in the application of neural networks in \sqrt{s} = 13 TeV proton-proton collision ATLAS simulation data. We study the performance of variational auto-encoders in boosted jets, who might be hiding signs of new physics. To analyze our network performance, we train the network on jets four-vectors coming from gluons and light quarks. We try to find a test signal, boosted top quark jets, in our simulation data by applying selections on the anomaly scores returned by our network. Our variational auto-encoder reach a good discrimination between the background and the top quark signal. However, we need to improve background rejection to purify our signal as a function of our selections.

Keyphrases: LHC, ATLAS, Particle physics, Machine learning, Neural networks, Boosted jets
Entropie d’intrication de régions squelettiques

In the last twenty years, the concept of entanglement entropy has taken an important place in the study of N-body quantum systems seen in condensed matter, among others. Entanglement entropy is an entanglement measure between two parts forming a system in a pure quantum state. The study of this entropy allows one to obtain crucial information about N-body quantum systems. In this master’s thesis, we will study the entanglement entropy of so-called skeletal regions, for a harmonic two-dimensional lattice corresponding to a discrete version of a massless relativistic scalar field theory. A skeletal region doesn’t possess a volume, unlike a region said to be full. In the case of a two-dimensional lattice, the skeletal region is defined by a finite chain of sites. We show that the behaviour of entanglement entropy of an unidimensional region differs from the case of a full region (which is two-dimensional). In particular, we show the appearance of new universal coefficients linked to skeletal regions. Our study consists mainly of numerical calculations, although some results are obtained in a semi-analytical manner.

Keyphrases: Limite ultraviolette, Entanglement entropy, Area law, Universal coefficients, Ultraviolet limit, Free bosons, Two-dimensional torus, Dirichlet boundary conditions, Corner coefficients