'I've never been so stressed in my life': a qualitative analysis of young adults' lived experience amidst pandemic restrictions in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: This qualitative study aimed to explore how young adults experienced the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to extensive lockdowns, social isolation and psychosocial distress. Specifically, this research focused on how the pandemic impacted those who did not contract COVID-19 and lived in a low-risk geographical location. The focus was young adults given they have large social circles (high risk for disease transmission) and have an increased propensity to mental health conditions. These insights can inform planning for future pandemics. DESIGN: This paper draws on 30 in-depth semistructured interviews. Data were analysed inductively following the principles of a constructivist grounded theory approach. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: 30 young adults living in Prince Edward Island during the COVID-19 pandemic, a Canadian province with a low number of COVID-19 cases at the time of data collection. RESULTS: We developed four themes that describe the experience of young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: (1) life course disruption, (2) fear and anxiety about the COVID-19 virus, (3) isolation and loss of hope and (4) strategies for managing adversity. Our findings highlight the areas of young adults' lives that were affected by extensive social changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We demonstrate that even individuals who had not contracted the virus were considerably impacted. CONCLUSION: We provide a detailed description of the comprehensive impact of COVID-19 on low-risk young adults not previously infected with the COVID-19 virus. By reflecting on the biographical disruption experienced by young adults, we highlight the need and opportunity to direct healthcare resources towards identifying and addressing the secondary impacts of pandemics. Consequently, these findings can guide decisions relating to future pandemic restrictions to better account for the experiences of individuals living through them.

First report of Myxobolus neurofontinalis (Bivalvulida: Myxobolidae) infecting anadromous Brook Trout from Prince Edward Island, Canada.

OBJECTIVE: During routine histological examination of tissues from mortality events of anadromous Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis from Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, myxospores consistent with Myxobolus were observed infecting the central nervous system. The objective of this study was to identify the species of Myxobolus infecting the nervous system of anadromous Brook Trout from PEI, Canada. METHODS: Myxospore morphology, small subunit (SSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequence data, and histology were used to identify myxospores isolated from infected Brook Trout. RESULT: Myxospore measurements from the PEI samples matched those reported in the description of Myxobolus neurofontinalis from North Carolina. A 1057-bp fragment of the SSU rDNA from myxospores collected from Brook Trout in PEI was identical to an isolate of M. neurofontinalis (MN191598) collected previously from the type locality, New River basin, North Carolina. Histological sections confirmed infections were intercellular in the central nervous system. Minimal host response was observed, with only sparse mononuclear inflammatory infiltrates present at the periphery of and within dispersed myxospores, suggesting that infections are not pathogenic to Brook Trout. CONCLUSION: Myxospores were identified as M. neurofontinalis, which was previously described from the central nervous system of Brook Trout from the New River basin, North Carolina, USA. This constitutes the first time M. neurofontinalis has been documented outside of the New River basin in North Carolina.

Seasonal Dynamics of Various Scab-Causing Streptomyces Genotypes Among Potato Fields on Prince Edward Island.

Potato common scab is an important bacterial plant disease caused by numerous Streptomyces species and strains. A better understanding of the genetic diversity and population dynamics of these microorganisms in the field is crucial to develop effective control methods. Our research group previously studied the genetic diversity of scab-causing Streptomyces spp. in Prince Edward Island, one of Canada's most important potato-growing provinces. Fourteen distinct Streptomyces genotypes were identified and displayed contrasting aggressiveness toward potato tubers. To better understand the distribution and occurrence of these genotypes over time under field conditions, the population dynamics were studied in nine commercial potato fields throughout a growing season. A comparative genomic-driven approach was used to design genotype-specific primers and probes, allowing us to quantify, using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, the abundance of each of the 14 genotypes in field soil. Thirteen of the previously identified genotypes were detected in at least one soil sample, with various frequencies and population sizes across the different fields under study. Interestingly, weakly virulent genotypes dominated, independent of time or location. Among them, three genotypes accounted for more than 80% of the genotypes' combined population. Although the highly virulent genotypes were detected in lower relative abundance than the weakly virulent ones, an increase in the highly virulent genotypes' population size was observed over the growing season in most fields. The results will ultimately be useful for the development of targeted common scab control strategies.

Recurrence of a BBS1 variant in Bardet-Biedl patients from Prince Edward Island.

This study reports variants in BBS1 and BBS7 in patients with Bardet-Biedl syndrome from the Canadian Maritime provinces. The BBS1 variant NM_024649.5:c.1169T>G was identified as a recurrent variant in Prince Edward Island.

Occurrence and control of equine strongyle nematode infections in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Widespread overuse of anthelmintics has produced a growing population of intestinal parasites resistant to control measures. A paradigm shift in equine parasite control is warranted to prevent continued resistance development and maintain equine health. Small strongyles, which are ubiquitous in horses, are currently the most important intestinal parasites of adult horses. Sustainable management programs consider the variation in egg shedding by individual horses, and varied risks associated with age, use, density, climate, and environment. To develop regional recommendations for Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, it is important to first characterize strongyle egg shedding patterns and parasite management practices in use. Study objectives were to conduct a cross-sectional observational survey and risk factor analysis of parasite control programs, strongyle egg shedding and Strongylus vulgaris serology. A total of 339 horses from 40 PEI farms were sampled. Mean farm size was 8 horses and ranged from 2 to 30. Mean horse age was 11.6 years (Std. Dev. =7.2) and ranged from 2 months to 32 years. Mean fecal egg count (FEC) was 322 eggs per gram (EPG) (Std. Dev. =648). On average, 32% (Std. Dev. =16%) of horses shed 80% of strongyle eggs across 32 eligible farms. When considering all horses (n = 313) as one large herd, 18.7% of horses shed 80% of strongyle eggs. Use of FEC was identified in 4.6% of horses at 15% (n = 6) of PEI farms. Reported deworming intervals included 37.4% (n = 123) every 2-3 months and 58% (n = 191) every 3-4 months. Positive S. vulgaris titers were identified in 60% of horses (n = 200). Univariate analysis revealed that months since last deworming, age, and body condition score (BCS) were associated with strongyle shedding. The estimated odds of being in the high FEC category (>500 EPG) was 1.4 (95% CI, 1.1-1.8) times higher when last deworming increased by one month. Under-conditioned (BCS <4.5) horses had 3.6 (95% CI, 1.2-10.6) times odds of being in the higher FEC category than over-conditioned horses. Non-racing horses had 5.4 times odds of having a positive S. vulgaris titer than racehorses. This cross-sectional observational study is the first to report on the occurrence, risk factors and control of equine strongyle nematode infections in PEI, Canada. We conclude that the 80:20 rule can be used to develop control recommendations in PEI. Very few farms in PEI currently use FEC to guide parasite management. These findings provide a basis for future client education and investigations aimed at providing region specific recommendations.

Rural medical education as a solution to rural physician shortages: an exploration of the motivations and engagement of rural physician-educators in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

INTRODUCTION: Medical education is increasingly taking place in rural areas as this is known to help physician recruitment to rural areas. A medical school is planned for Prince Edward Island (PEI) that would use community-based learning as a core principle, yet little is known about the specific factors that influence our rural physicians' participation and engagement in medical education. Our objective is to describe these factors. METHODS: Using mixed-methods, we conducted a survey of all physician-teachers on PEI and conducted semi-structured interviews with self-selected survey respondents. We gathered quantitative and qualitative data, and conducted an analysis of themes. RESULTS: The study is ongoing and will be completed before March 2022. Early survey results suggest that faculty teach because they enjoy it, and due to a sense of \"paying it forward\" and \"duty\". They face major workload challenges but are very interested in improving their teaching skills. They see themselves as clinician-teachers but not as scholars. DISCUSSION: Locating medical education in rural communities is known to alleviate physician shortages in those areas. Our early findings suggest novel factors such as identity, and traditional factors such as workload and resources, influence teaching engagement for rural physicians. Our findings also suggest that rural physicians' interest in improving their teaching is not being met by current methods. Our research contributes to the study of factors influencing rural physicians' motivation and engagement in teaching. Further research is required to understand how these findings compare with urban settings, and the implications of these differences for supporting rural medical education.

Echinococcus multilocularis infection in a red fox (Vulpes vulpes) on Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Objective: Molecular identification of small cestodes, morphologically consistent with Echinococcus multilocularis, recovered at necropsy from the gastrointestinal tract contents of a red fox, was accomplished by PCR using published species-specific n ad1 primers and methods. Animal: Red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Procedure: Small cestodes recovered from intestinal contents of a red fox trapped on Prince Edward Island in December 2020 (frozen at -20°C before being processed for parasite recovery in June 2021) were morphologically identified. Species identity confirmation and haplotyping of the cestodes were done via PCR and DNA sequencing of the n ad1, nad2, and cob genes. Results: Small cestodes morphologically consistent with E. multilocularis were detected in the gastrointestinal tract contents of a red fox trapped near Montague, PEI. The species identity was confirmed via PCR. Haplotyping revealed that they were of the European E1 haplotype. Conclusion: In Canada, E. multilocularis has been reported as far east as Québec, with most reports being in central and western provinces and territories. This is the first report of E. multilocularis infection in a canid host east of Ontario, Canada and illustrates the need for regular wildlife disease surveillance to enhance our understanding of emerging pathogens of veterinary and medical importance. Clinical Relevance: Echinococcus multilocularis is a highly pathogenic zoonotic cestode from the family Taeniidae that can cause alveolar echinococcosis (AE) when rodents, dogs, horses, pigs, non-human primates, or humans ingest its eggs. Alveolar echinococcosis is challenging to treat, and survival rates for untreated individuals are low.

Objectif: L'identification moléculaire de petits cestodes, morphologiquement compatibles avec Echinococcus multilocularis, récupérés à l'autopsie du contenu du tractus gastro-intestinal d'un renard roux, a été réalisée par PCR à l'aide d'amorces nad1 spécifiques à l'espèce et de méthodes publiées. Animal: Renard roux (Vulpes vulpes). Procédure: De petits cestodes récupérés du contenu intestinal d'un renard roux piégé à l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard en décembre 2020 (congelés à −20 °C avant d'être traités pour la récupération des parasites en juin 2021) ont été morphologiquement identifiés. La confirmation de l'identité des espèces et l'haplotypage des cestodes ont été effectués par PCR et séquençage de l'ADN des gènes nad1, nad2 et cob. Résultats: De petits cestodes morphologiquement compatibles avec E. multilocularis ont été détectés dans le contenu du tractus gastro-intestinal d'un renard roux piégé près de Montague, Î.-P.-É. L'identité de l'espèce a été confirmée par PCR. L'haplotypage a révélé qu'ils étaient de l'haplotype européen E1. Conclusion: Au Canada, E. multilocularis a été signalé aussi loin à l'est que le Québec, la plupart des signalements ayant été rapportés dans les provinces et territoires du centre et de l'ouest. Il s'agit du premier rapport d'infection à E. multilocularis chez un canidé hôte à l'est de l'Ontario, au Canada, et illustre la nécessité d'une surveillance régulière des maladies de la faune pour améliorer notre compréhension des agents pathogènes émergents d'importance vétérinaire et médicale. Pertinence clinique: Echinococcus multilocularis est un cestode zoonotique hautement pathogène de la famille des Taeniidae qui peut provoquer une échinococcose alvéolaire (EA) lorsque des rongeurs, des chiens, des chevaux, des porcs, des primates non humains ou des humains ingèrent ses oeufs. L'échinococcose alvéolaire est difficile à traiter et les taux de survie des personnes non traitées sont faibles.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Impact of Lifestyle Modification on Quality of Life in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: Findings from the CHANGE Program Intervention Study in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Purpose: To assess the modification in quality of life (QoL) of patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) after participating in Canadian Health Advanced by Nutrition and Graded Exercise (CHANGE) program and identify predictors of this modification in QoL among participants. Methods: A convenience sample of 100 patients with MetS completed the 12-month CHANGE program (diet and exercise regular counseling). 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAC), Physician Assessment and Clinical Education (PACE), and the Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS) questionnaires were employed to assess participants' QoL, physical activity (PA), sedentary behaviors, and quality of diet, respectively. In addition, physical fitness tests (6-Minute Walk Test, One-Leg Stance Test, and Grip Strength Test) were used. Medical history, blood tests, and anthropometric [height, weight, and waist circumference (WC)] and blood pressure measurements were performed by a nurse. Linear regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of QoL. Results: Participants' mean age was 58.3 ± 11.0, and 75.4% were females. After the CHANGE program, participants demonstrated significant reduction in the number of MetS criteria and significant improvement of physical and mental components of QoL. Moreover, there was significant increase in participants' PA, MDS, and physical fitness mean scores with corresponding significant reduction in sedentary behavior time, blood pressure, and WC measures. Linear regression analysis revealed that age, WC, screen time, PA, and physical fitness were significant predictors of QoL. Conclusion: The 12-month group-based diet and exercise counseling led to clinically significant improvement in MetS criteria and in important measures of health and fitness among participants, which improved their QoL. Age, fitness measures, and daily screen time were associated with QoL.

Family Feeding Practices of Parents on Prince Edward Island: A Focus on Responsive Feeding.

The home environment and parental influence are strong predictors of eating behaviours in young children and can influence healthy development. The objective of this study was to describe the feeding practices of a sample of families on Prince Edward Island. Eleven parent participants were recruited, one-on-one interviews were held, and a thematic analysis was conducted. Conversations with parents revealed that the family feeding environment is influenced by a multitude of factors that change daily and need to be navigated based on the age of the child. Parents saw family meals as time together and an opportunity to model healthy eating behaviours; however, they faced several challenges at mealtimes, including perceived picky eating. Parents recognized their children's hunger and satiety cues, although they respected satiety signals more often if children ate what they perceived as a lot of food. Many parents used food as a reward to encourage their children to eat more but recognized that it could lead to the development of undesirable habits. Despite the complex factors that influence feeding, dietitians can work with families to foster a responsive feeding environment by encouraging family meals, recognizing and respecting hunger and satiety cues, and understanding typical changes in eating behaviours as children age.

First report of Angiostrongylus vasorum (French heartworm) in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) on Prince Edward Island.

Objective: To identify first-stage nematode larvae (L1) recovered from a red fox scat sample and adult female worms recovered from 2 red fox lungs at necropsy, using published molecular methods to confirm a morphological diagnosis of Angiostrongylus vasorum (French heartworm). Animal: Red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Procedure: Nematode larvae recovered from a Baermann examination survey of wild canid scats (n = 101) conducted from January 2017 to August 2020, were identified by size and morphology and subjected to PCR and DNA sequencing of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene, the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, or the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2). In addition, these techniques were applied to adult female worms recovered from the heart/lungs of 2 red foxes (obtained from PEI trappers and stored frozen at -20°C since December of 2018 and 2020). Results: Size and morphology of L1 recovered by Baermann examination from a wild canid scat sample (presumed to be red fox) collected near Montague, PEI and adult female worms recovered at necropsy from 2 red fox carcasses were identified as A. vasorum. Molecular analysis confirmed the larvae and adult worms were A. vasorum. Conclusion: These findings indicated that A. vasorum has become endemic in the red fox population on PEI. Clinical relevance: Angiostrongylus vasorum infection is potentially fatal in dogs. Veterinarians and regional diagnostic laboratories in the Maritime provinces should consider the possibility of A. vasorum infection in dogs with clinical signs of cardiopulmonary and/or central nervous system disease or bleeding disorders.

Objectif: Identifier les larves de nématodes de premier stade (L1) récupérées à partir d'un échantillon d'excréments de renard roux et les vers femelles adultes récupérés à partir de deux poumons de renard roux à l'autopsie, en utilisant des méthodes moléculaires publiées pour confirmer un diagnostic morphologique d'Angiostrongylus vasorum (ver du coeur français). Animal: Renard roux (Vulpis vulpis). Procédure: Les larves de nématodes récupérées lors d'une enquête sur des excréments de canidés sauvages (n = 101) par examen Baermann menée de janvier 2017 à août 2020, ont été identifiées par taille et morphologie et soumises à la PCR et au séquençage de DNA de la petite sous-unité (SSU) du gène de rRNA, de la grande sous-unité (LSU) du gène de rRNA ou du deuxième espaceur interne transcrit (ITS2). De plus, ces techniques ont été appliquées à des vers femelles adultes récupérés du coeur/poumons de deux renards roux (obtenus auprès de trappeurs de l'Î.-P.-É. et conservés congelés à −20 °C depuis décembre 2018 et 2020). Résultats: La taille et la morphologie de L1 récupérées par examen Baermann à partir d'un échantillon d'excréments de canidés sauvages (présumé être du renard roux) prélevé près de Montague, Î.-P.-É. et des vers adultes femelles récupérés des carcasses lors de la nécropsie de deux renards roux ont été identifiés comme étant A. vasorum. L'analyse moléculaire a confirmé que les larves et les vers adultes étaient A. vasorum. Conclusion: Ces résultats indiquent qu'A. vasorum est devenu endémique dans la population de renards roux de l'Î.-P.-É. Pertinence clinique: L'infection à A. vasorum est potentiellement mortelle chez le chien. Les vétérinaires et les laboratoires de diagnostic régionaux des provinces maritimes devraient envisager la possibilité d'une infection à A. vasorum chez les chiens présentant des signes cliniques de maladie cardio-pulmonaire et/ou du système nerveux central ou de troubles de la coagulation.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Babesia vulpes in a dog from Prince Edward Island, Canada.

A 12-year-old neutered male American Staffordshire terrier dog was referred to the Atlantic Veterinary College, Prince Edward Island, Canada, for suspected immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. Babesiosis (Babesia vulpes) was confirmed using polymerase chain reaction testing. The dog was successfully treated with a 10-day protocol of atovaquone/proguanil (TEVA Pharmaceutical Industries, Toronto, Ontario), 13.5 mg/kg BW, PO, q8h and azithromycin (Pharmascience, Montreal, Quebec), 10 mg/kg BW, PO, q24h. To the authors' knowledge, this report is the first documented case of babesiosis caused by Babesia vulpes in a dog from Canada.

Babesia vulpes chez un chien de l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard, Canada. Un chien American Staffordshire terrier mâle castré de 12 ans a été référé au Atlantic Veterinary College, Île-du-Prince-Édouard, Canada, pour suspicion d'anémie hémolytique à médiation immunitaire. La babésiose (Babesia vulpes) a été confirmée à l'aide d'un test d'amplification en chaîne par la polymérase. Le chien a été traité avec succès avec un protocole de 10 jours d'atovaquone/proguanil (TEVA Pharmaceutical Industries, Toronto, Ontario), 13,5 mg/kg BW, PO, q8h et azithromycine (Pharmascience, Montréal, Québec), 10 mg/kg BW, PO, q24h. À la connaissance des auteurs, ce rapport est le premier cas documenté de babésiose causée par Babesia vulpes chez un chien du Canada.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Choice of cover crop influences soil fungal and bacterial communities in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Soil fungal and bacterial communities play various roles in agroecosystems and are significantly influenced by agricultural management practices. Currently, little is known about the effects of selected cover crops on soil fungal and bacterial communities in no-till systems. In this study, eight cover crops, three mixed crops, and an unmanaged fallow control were evaluated over 2 years for their effects on the soil microbiome. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was performed to characterize fungal and bacterial communities in the soil during the cover crop growing season, and in the subsequent year. Fungal and bacterial alpha diversity significantly increased over time and were influenced in the subsequent growing season by choice of cover crops. Some fungal and bacterial trophic and functional groups were also affected by crop choice. Fungal pathotroph abundance was positively associated with oilseed radish, alfalfa, and phacelia, but negatively associated with sorghum-sudangrass. Beneficial symbiotrophic fungi and functional nitrification-related bacterial groups were also associated with sorghum-sudangrass and buckwheat. These findings suggest that choice of cover crops influences the soil microbial community composition and may impact plant health in the subsequent crops.

HEALTH STATUS INCLUDING LEAD LEVELS OF NESTLING BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) ON PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA IN 2012 AND 2013.

Published research on the health status of wild bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Eastern Canada is limited. This study examined the health status of 53 nestling bald eagles on Prince Edward Island in the summers of 2012 and 2013, including biochemistry reference intervals, a summary of hematological parameters, and background lead accumulation. Baseline lead levels of greater than 0.02 ppm were noted in nine nestlings, and the odds of lead accumulation decreased with increased weight and body condition score. Biochemical reference intervals were developed using a method outlined by the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology. These intervals can vary between populations based on age and geographic area. These findings will therefore be useful in further research and clinical cases within this population, as well as further research into subclinical lead accumulation in growing raptors.

Prevalence of anthelmintic resistant cyathostomins in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Cyathostomins are the most common parasites of adult horses worldwide. Currently, the three classes of anthelmintics used to treat cyathostomin infections includes benzimidazoles, pyrimidines and macrocyclic lactones. However, due to widespread overuse, cyathostomins have developed varying degrees of resistance to all classes of anthelmintics. Fecal egg count reduction tests (FECRT) are currently used to determine the presence of anthelmintic resistance (AR), while egg reappearance periods (ERP) are used to investigate early macrocyclic lactone resistance. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of cyathostomin pyrantel pamoate and ivermectin resistance, and to determine ERP at Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada horse farms. In addition, fecal cultures and larval identification were performed to evaluate the prevalence of small and large strongyle egg shedding in PEI. Fecal egg counts (FEC) were performed on 270 horses on 14 horse farms across PEI. Horses with≥ 200 eggs per gram (EPG) met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study (n = 101). The median (range) horses per farm was 7.5 (4-11) and 6.0 (4-8) for pyrantel pamoate and ivermectin groups, respectively. Horses were initially treated with 6.6 mg/kg of pyrantel pamoate orally (n = 101). Fecal egg counts were conducted every two weeks for 8 weeks post treatment. Once individual FEC were ≥ 200 EPG, horses were dewormed with 0.2 mg/kg of ivermectin orally (n = 80), and FEC were performed every 2-3 weeks for seven weeks. In this study the ERP was defined as the week the mean FECR were 10% below the initial mean two-week post treatment FECR. Fecal egg count reduction tests and ERP were used to evaluate the efficacy of each anthelmintic. Fecal culture was performed to confirm the shedding of cyathostomin eggs. Fecal egg count reduction tests detected pyrantel pamoate resistance on 5/14 farms. No signs of ivermectin AR were detected, while reappearance of eggs occurred at 4-6 weeks and 7-9 weeks for pyrantel pamoate and ivermectin, respectively. Fecal culture detected large strongyles on 5/14 farms, which accounted for 0.3% of strongyle type eggs cultured. The prevalence of Strongylus vulgaris among individual horses in this study was 2.8% and was detected on 2/14 farms. These findings will allow us to educate owners and veterinarians on appropriate anthelmintic protocols in PEI and can be used as a baseline for continued monitoring of ERP and anthelmintic resistance in this region.

Musculoskeletal injuries in Standardbred racehorses on Prince Edward Island.

A study of musculoskeletal injuries in Standardbred racehorses on Prince Edward Island was conducted to determine the incidence and risk factors for injury. Monthly information was collected from 10 trainers and 153 Standardbred horses over a 12-month period. Seventeen new injuries were identified in pacers, representing a horse level incidence risk of 23% and an incidence rate of injury of 2.19 per horse-month at risk. Forty-one percent of the injuries occurred during a race, 53% during training and 6% during jogging. Fourteen horses had experienced a previous injury and 3 of these horses experienced a new injury during the study period. Potential risk factors for injury were the speed at which the horse was trained, previous injury, and the conformational fault of offset knees.

Blessures musculosquelettiques chez des chevaux de course Standardbred à l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard. Une étude des blessures musculosquelettiques chez des chevaux de course Standardbred à l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard a été menée pour déterminer l'incidence et les facteurs de risque de blessures. Des informations mensuelles ont été recueillies auprès de 10 entraîneurs et de 153 chevaux Standardbred sur une période de 12 mois. Dix-sept nouvelles blessures ont été identifiées chez les trotteurs, représentant un risque d'incidence au niveau du cheval de 23 % et un taux d'incidence de blessures de 2,19 par cheval-mois à risque. Quarante et un pour cent des blessures sont survenues pendant une course, 53 % pendant l'entraînement et 6 % pendant le jogging. Quatorze chevaux avaient déjà subi une blessure et trois de ces chevaux ont subi une nouvelle blessure au cours de la période d'étude. Les facteurs de risque potentiels de blessure étaient la vitesse à laquelle le cheval a été entraîné, les blessures antérieures et le défaut de conformation des genoux décalés.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Characterization of the microbiota and resistome of bulk tank milk samples from Prince Edward Island dairy farms.

Bulk tank milk (BTM) is regularly used for surveillance on dairy farms for disease conditions such as mastitis and Johne's disease. In this study, we used 16S rRNA sequencing and bait-capture enrichment to characterize the microbiota and resistome of BTM, and investigate potential differences between the cream or pellet fractions. A total of 12 BTM samples were taken from 12 Prince Edward Island dairy farms, in Atlantic Canada, in duplicates. The DNA was analyzed by high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and a suite of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Target-capture enrichment of AMR genes was conducted before shotgun sequencing. The bioinformatics pipelines QIIME 2 and AMR++ were used for microbiota and resistome analysis, respectively. Differences between microbiotae were evaluated qualitatively with nonmetric multidimensional scaling and quantitatively with permutational ANOVA of UniFrac distances. A total of 47 phyla were present across the BTM samples. Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were the most abundant phyla. At the genus level, Corynebacterium, Acinetobacter, Lactobacillus, and Turicibacter were the most abundant. There was no significant difference in the Faith's phylogenetic diversity between the cream and pellet fraction. Faith's phylogenetic diversity differed marginally by stall type. There were 10,217 hits across 80 unique AMR genes, with tetracycline resistance being the most common class.

A metabarcoding approach for detecting protozoan pathogens in wild oysters from Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Food and waterborne protozoan pathogens including Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia enterica and Toxoplasma gondii are a global concern for human public health. While all three pathogens have been detected in commercial shellfish, there is currently no standard approach for detecting protozoan parasites in shellfish. Common molecular and microscopic methods are limited in the number of pathogens they can simultaneously detect and are often targeted at one or two of these pathogens. Previously, we developed and validated a novel 18S amplicon-based next-generation sequencing assay for simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp. and T. gondii in shellfish. In this study, we applied the assay for protozoan pathogen detection in wild oysters from Prince Edward Island (PEI). Oysters were harvested from restricted and prohibited areas, classified by the Canadian government according to fecal coliform counts in surrounding waters, and different fractions (whole tissue homogenate and hemolymph) were analyzed. Protozoan DNA was detected using metabarcoding in 28%, of oysters tested (N = 128), and the pathogen read counts in oyster homogenate were considerably higher than those in hemolymph. Protozoan read count thresholds were established for classifying probable oyster contamination with pathogens to account for low levels of background protozoan reads detected in negative controls. Assay results showed protozoan contamination was not associated with harvesting site classifications, suggesting that using fecal indicators for ensuring food safety may be insufficient. Due to the complex matrix, an oyster DNA reduction step may further improve the pathogen detection sensitivity of the assay. Results from this study affirm that novel metabarcoding is a promising screening tool for detection of protozoan pathogens in shellfish.

Companion animal preventive care at a veterinary teaching hospital - Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of clients.

Preventive care is the cornerstone of health. However, veterinary staff to client (pet owner) communication of disease prevention may be limited resulting in increased pet risk. Our objectives were to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices of clients regarding vaccination and parasite control and describe information sources influencing client preventive care. Over a 6-week period, clients visiting a veterinary teaching hospital in Prince Edward Island, Canada, were invited to complete a written questionnaire. Of those invited, 81% (105/129) completed the questionnaire. Respondents reported low (19 to 33%) to moderate (66 to 79%) coverage for canine "lifestyle" and core vaccines, respectively. Half of the participants reported that they had concern for their pet's health from endo/ectoparasites compared to concern for their/household member's health (27%), despite 45% reporting a person at increased zoonotic risk in their household. Veterinarians (89 to 92%) and online information (39 to 51%) were the highest client-reported resources for vaccine and parasite education. Our work provides a baseline for preventive care practices and highlights a need for improvement.

Soins préventifs des animaux de compagnie dans un hôpital d'enseignement vétérinaire ­ Connaissances, attitudes et pratiques des clients. Les soins préventifs sont la pierre angulaire de la santé. Cependant, la communication entre le personnel vétérinaire et le client (propriétaire de l'animal) concernant la prévention des maladies peut être limitée, ce qui augmente le risque pour les animaux de compagnie. Les objectifs de l'étude étaient d'évaluer les connaissances, les attitudes et les pratiques des clients en matière de vaccination et de lutte antiparasitaire et de décrire les sources d'information influençant les soins préventifs prodigués par les clients. Sur une période de 6 semaines, les clients visitant un hôpital d'enseignement vétérinaire de l'Île-du-Prince-Édouard, au Canada, ont été invités à remplir un questionnaire écrit. Parmi les invités, 81 % (105/129) ont rempli le questionnaire. Les répondants ont rapporté une couverture faible (19 à 33 %) à modérée (66 à 79 %) pour les vaccins « style de vie ¼ canin et de base, respectivement. La moitié des participants ont déclaré s'inquiéter pour la santé de leur animal de compagnie relativement aux endo/ectoparasites comparativement à des inquiétudes pour leur santé ou celle des membres de leur famille (27 %), bien que 45 % aient déclaré qu'une personne présentait un risque zoonotique accru dans leur ménage. Les vétérinaires (89 à 92 %) et les renseignements en ligne (39 à 51 %) étaient les ressources les plus importantes déclarées par les clients pour l'éducation sur les vaccins et les parasites. Notre travail fournit une base pour les pratiques de soins préventifs et met en évidence un besoin d'amélioration.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Serologic and urinary survey of exposure to Leptospira species in a feral cat population of Prince Edward Island, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: Recent studies show that cats could play an important role in the transmission of Leptospira species. There are few reports of leptospirosis on Prince Edward Island (PEI) and none in cats. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of serum antibodies against Leptospira serovars and of Leptospira DNA in the urine of a population of free-roaming cats. METHODS: Paired blood and urine samples were collected from 200 cats brought to a trap-neuter-return program. Antibody titers against six Leptospira serovars (Bratislava, Canicola, Gryppotyphosa, Hardjo, Pomona, Icterohaemorrhagiae) were determined by microscopic agglutination test. PCR was performed on urine samples to identify urine shedding of Leptospira DNA. RESULTS: Antibodies were detected in 20/200 cats (10%) for at least one serovar, with titers ranging from 1:50 to 1:6400 (all serovars tested, except Hardjo). Urine samples of 7/200 cats (3.5%) were PCR-positive. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Feral cats in PEI had a higher than expected exposure to leptospirosis and can shed DNA from pathogenic Leptospira species in urine. Further studies are needed to determine the prevalence of exposure to leptospirosis in other species on PEI and the potential role of feral cats in transmission of the disease.

Lesions associated with Bartonella taylorii-like bacterium infection in a free-ranging, young-of-the-year raccoon from Prince Edward Island, Canada.

A young-of-the year, female raccoon was presented with clinical signs of weakness and tremors. The raccoon was euthanized, and autopsy findings included poor body condition, diffuse lymphadenopathy, and pale, firm kidneys with petechial hemorrhages throughout the renal cortex. Histologic lesions included systemic fibrinoid vascular necrosis and severe renal lesions, including lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis and fibrinosuppurative glomerulonephritis. Inflammatory vascular lesions were also present within the uvea, heart, lymph nodes, and the lamina propria of the gastric wall. Ancillary testing was negative for Borrelia burgdorferi, Leptospira sp., Aleutian disease virus, canine distemper virus, feline coronavirus, porcine circovirus 2, and rabies virus. Transmission electron microscopy revealed large numbers of ~1.3 × 0.35 µm bacterial rods surrounded by a trilaminar cell wall located within the glomeruli and associated with aggregates of fibrin and vascular damage. Analysis of partial citrate synthase gene and 16S-23S ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer region sequences from kidney tissue confirmed that the organism was a Bartonella spp. that was related to numerous Bartonella spp. from shrews in Europe. This group formed a sister clade to the genetically diverse Bartonella taylorii group that has been reported from a wide range of Eurasian rodent and flea species.