Community genetics in the time of next-generation molecular technologies.

Understanding the interactions of co-occurring species within and across trophic levels provides key information needed for understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that underlie biological diversity. As genetics has only recently been integrated into the study of community-level interactions, the time is right for a critical evaluation of potential new, gene-based approaches to studying communities. Next-generation molecular techniques, used in parallel with field-based observations and manipulative experiments across spatio-temporal gradients, are key to expanding our understanding of community-level processes. Here, we introduce a variety of '-omics' tools, with recent studies of plant-insect herbivores and of ectomycorrhizal systems providing detailed examples of how next-generation approaches can revolutionize our understanding of interspecific interactions. We suggest ways that novel technologies may convert community genetics from a field that relies on correlative inference to one that reveals causal mechanisms of genetic co-variation and adaptations within communities.

[3 case examples of intravital maggot infestations]. / Drei Fallbeispiele von intravitalem Madenfrass.

The authors report on three cases of myiasis which rarely occurs in the civilized world. Poor social conditions, old age, alcoholism, diabetes and vascular occlusive disease were predisposing co-factors. All three victims showed large necrotizing skin ulcerations, but in no case a generalized infection had developed. Therefore the probable benefit from the maggot infestation concerning these ulcerating skin lesions is discussed. For centuries clinicians have observed that maggots provide debridement of necrotic wounds particularly in Military Medicine. With the advent of antibiotics their therapeutic use declined. Recently "biosurgery" (syn. maggot or larval therapy) again became a promising tool for therapy of infected, necrotizing skin-ulcerations. Besides wound debridement marked anti-microbial activity and secretion of proteolytic enzymes could be detected. Maggot debridement is an valuable and cost-effective treatment option for patients with nonhealing wounds.