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The honeybee (Apis mellifera) is a key pollinator critical to global agriculture, facing threats from various stressors, including the ectoparasitic Varroamite (Varroa destructor). Previous studies have identified shared bacteria between Varroamites and honeybees, yet it remains unclear if these bacteria assemble similarly in both species. This study builds on existing knowledge by investigating co-occurrence patterns in the microbiomes of both Varroamites and honeybees, shedding light on potential interactions. Leveraging 16S rRNA datasets, we conducted co-occurrence network analyses, explored Core Association Networks (CAN) and assess network robustness. Comparative network analyses revealed structural differences between honeybee and mite microbiomes, along with shared core features and microbial motifs. The mite network exhibited lower robustness, suggesting less resistance to taxa extension compared to honeybees. Furthermore, analyses of predicted functional profiling and taxa contribution revealed that common central pathways in the metabolic networks have different taxa contributing to Varroamites and honeybee microbiomes. The results show that while both microbial systems exhibit functional redundancy, in which different taxa contribute to the functional stability and resilience of the ecosystem, there is evidence for niche specialization resulting in unique contributions to specific pathways in each part of this host-parasite system. The specificity of taxa contribution to key pathways offers targeted approaches to Varroamicrobiome management and preserving honeybee microbiome. Our findings provide valuable insights into microbial interactions, aiding farmers and beekeepers in maintaining healthy and resilient bee colonies amid increasing Varroamite infestations.

AbstractHemicorporectomy is the amputation of the lower body – pelvis and lower limbs. It requires transection of the spine and dural sac at the level of aortic bifurcation and inferior lower vein, and permanent urinary and stool derivation. Performance indications are tumour trauma and terminal pelvic osteomyelitis. So far about 60 cases have been published; only 11 operations were performed for terminal osteomyelitis. We have successfully performed hemicorporectomy in a patient with chronic sepsis from terminal pelvic osteomyelitis after exhausting all other treatment options. The experience gained and the important moments of the procedure are given in the case report.