Identifying Research Gaps for the Role of the Environment in Transmission of Antimicrobial-Resistant Escherichia coli in Cow-Calf Operations in North America: A Scoping Review Protocol
Date
2021-06-30
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Abstract
Escherichia coli (E.coli) is a gram negative rod-shaped bacteria which is found in the intestines of people, animals and in the environment. E.coli is also found in food and untreated water. Antimicrobial use in animal production against bacteria such as E. coli is essential for maintaining animal health. However, increased antimicrobial use poses the risk of contributing to the problem of antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms selectively develop mechanisms to protect themselves from the effects of antimicrobial compounds. Antimicrobial resistance is a One Health concern as it impacts animal, human and ecosystem health.
In North America, the term cow-calf production refers to cattle raised exclusively or largely on pasture, having a grass- or hay-based diet, and which may consume a low amount of concentrate diet, producing an annual crop of calves. The calves are intended for beef production and are usually backgrounded on pasture or backgrounding lots and then finished with a high concentrate diet in feedlots. Although
this literature review is not restricted to North America, information retrieved will be discussed in relation to cow-calf operations in North America. For the purpose of this scoping review, the term “environment” will refer to environmental features such as: manure, wildlife, soil, insects, and water sources. By including these search terms, the scoping review will identify environmental reservoirs that have been shown to impact the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli in cow-calf operations.
Our aim is to conduct a scoping review of the evidence regarding the role of the environment in the transmission and maintenance of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli within cow-calf operations. This study will identify gaps in knowledge regarding the reservoirs and transmission of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli in cow-calf operations (2). Because the mechanisms of maintenance and transmission of antimicrobial resistance in the environment are obscure, this scoping review will aid in determining the quantity and nature of information that presently exists in this field, and aid in identifying directions for future research (3). The review will be conducted between July 1, 2021 and August 31, 2021.
Description
Scoping Review
Keywords
Cattle, E. coli, Antimicrobial Resistance