A randomized trial evaluating a novel hydrogel packing system compared to standard packing during image-guided high-dose rate brachytherapy boost for cervical cancer.

Introduction: The purpose of this prospective randomized trial was to compare the use of a novel vaginal hydrogel packing system (BrachyGel) to standard vaginal packing (VP) during high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy (BT) for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC).

Methods: This cross-over study included LACC patients receiving HDR BT boost (intracavitary +/- interstitial). All patients received alternating gauze or BrachyGel VP on Arms A and B.

Functional Characterization of Core and Unique Calcite-Dissolving Bacteria Communities from Peanut Fields.

Calcium deficiency is a leading cause of reduced peanut () seed quality and has been linked to increased disease susceptibility, specifically to soilborne fungal pathogens. Sufficient calcium at flowering time is critical to ensure proper pod development. Calcite-dissolving bacteria (CDB) isolated from farming fields can dissolve calcite (CaCO) on plates and increase soluble calcium levels in soil.