Covid-19 patients are monitored by sensors

By connecting a special sensor module to the artificial ventilation equipment of the lungs, it will be possible to obtain data that will allow to predict more quickly the risk of the patient's possible complications.

Within the framework of the state research program “Mitigation of Covid-19” at the Toxicology and Sepsis Clinic of Riga East Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS), monitoring of Covid-19 patients with special sensors has been started, which specialists connect to artificial ventilation equipment. Carefully selected sensors analyze the patient's exhaled air and are designed to determine the spectrum of various chemicals (volatile organic compounds - VOCs) in the exhaled air. By collecting a sufficient amount of data and performing their statistical analysis, it will be possible to observe the characteristic changes in the composition of chemicals in the patient's breath in comparison with his symptoms and other medical parameters. The aim of the study is to predict the risk of possible complications more quickly.

The research is led by specialists of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine (LU KPMI) of the University of Latvia. Close cooperation with RAKUS, the Latvian Center for Infectious Diseases, as well as the specialists of JLM Innovation GmbH in Germany, who have developed and adapted sensors for use in artificial lung ventilation equipment, is essential for achieving the results. First, the scientists involved in the study evaluated what sensors would be needed. For example, the new analysis equipment includes sensors that detect humidity, temperature, as well as specific metal-oxide sensors for the detection of VOCs in the breath. To date, metal oxide gas sensors have already been used in laboratories as well as for air quality monitoring.

The scientists' newly developed sensor module is then suitable for use in artificial lung ventilation. The new device is powered by a small but powerful enough minicomputer. Also customized JLMlogSP specially designed software that helps to collect and store measurement data. They can be obtained by connecting to the analysis device using a wifi connection activated for the time of data exchange. In the course of the research, by performing separate repeated measurements, the most optimal location of the sensors was determined - they are connected to the air outlet of the artificial ventilation device of the lungs, thus it does not affect the operation of the device itself. As a result, the sensors do not come into contact with the patient, are safe for use by both doctors and patients, and are not exposed to potentially dangerous exposure to excessive humidity, temperature and bacterial contamination. It will be possible to rid the sensors of bacterial and viral contamination using ultraviolet light.

The researchers predict that the newly developed system will allow doctors to easily and non-invasively monitor the changes in the body of patients connected to the respiratory system, as well as at the same time predict the course of the disease and adjust treatment accordingly. Experts hope that this will also provide an opportunity to learn about potential additional infections and to adjust therapy in a timely manner, which will improve the chances of recovery.

     

Picture 1. - Newly developed sensor module adapted for use in artificial ventilation equipment.

Picture 2. - Checking the location of sensors in the artificial lung ventilation system. Air outlet position selected (on the right side of the image).

The study on the use of sensors in the lung artificial ventilation device is performed on the clinical, biochemical, immunogenetic paradigms of the Covid-19 infection project of the National Research Program “Covid-19 Mitigation” and their correlation with socio-demographic, etiological, pathogenetic, diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic factors to be included in the guidelines ”, Project no. VPP-COVID-2020 / 1-0023.

Highlights of the project "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center" at the end of 2020

IT Center of Competence pursuant to Contract Nr. 1.2.1.1/18/A/003 of May 9, 2019 with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency  is implementing the project "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center".
The project will continue to implement all approved studies in the last quarter of 2020. The sixth request for payment has been prepared and submitted, and meetings of both the heads of scientific fields and the council are held regularly, where the progress of the implemented research and the achieved results are reviewed. With the resurgence of the Covid-19 wave, the meetings took place entirely remotely. The state declared emergency has not significantly affected the implementation of the research in general.
SIA “Datorzinību centrs” and University of Latvia research No. 1.5 “Development of a research support model to improve the medical research data collection process” started in May 2019. In the fourth quarter of 2020, the implementation of the second industrial research activity “Development of the technological implementation concept of the research support model” and the experimental development activity “Development and validation of the research support tool prototype” is being continued.

 

The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Operational Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.2.1. Specific objective 1.2.1.1 of the Specific objective "Increase private sector investment in R&D". the measure "Support for the development of new products and technologies within centers of competence"

Sensor technology has been evaluated internationally as promising, the first clinical evaluations of which are planned in Riga

In the special edition of ACS SENSORS, an internationally significant (IF7.3) journal of the American Chemical Society, the editorial board has selected 30 sensor technologies based on their originality and potential impact on the future development of the industry. These technologies demonstrate the most important achievements in the areas of sensor sensitivity, specificity, reliability.

One of the technologies also highlighted in the editor's introductory article is the combination of spectroscopy and metal oxide sensor readings described by colleagues in the selected article by Boris Mizaikoff (Ulme, Germany). The technology has been developed within the framework of the H2020 project VOGAS, the clinical work of which is coordinated internationally by the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia (LU KPMI).

It is expected that the first prototype units of the technology described in the article will be received in Riga immediately after the completion of the initial technical evaluation for repeatability analysis and the first clinical evaluations. It is planned that the first clinical evaluations will be started in the first months of next year at the Clinic of Surgical Oncology of Riga East University Hospital (RAKUS).

A cooperation agreement has been concluded between the University of Latvia and Riga East University Hospital for the implementation of the VOGAS project.

Link to the article 1.

Link to article 2. 

The project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824986 

🎄🎅🎄🎅2020 season’s greetings from IARC

As 2020 draws to a close, the personnel and the Director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) wish all partners, collaborators, and friends a peaceful and enjoyable festive season. Hoping to see everybody soon to continue our work on cancer prevention research to help bring about a world where fewer people develop cancer.

You can watch the greeting video HERE. 

ESDO Trainee Fellowships 2021

In the 8th consecutive year, the European Society of Digestive Oncology offers Trainee Fellowships during the year 2021, supporting trainees in Digestive Oncology to spend at least 2 weeks at an ESDO certified training centre. The fellowships create the unique chance for young gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, general surgeons (GI focus) and radiation oncologists to expand their experience in the interdisciplinary treatment of GI cancer in an excellent setting with all specialties established (surgery, medical oncology, gastroenterology, pathology, radiology, radiation therapy).

The fellowships are competitive and applicants require support from the head of their own department.

The fellowship grant amounts to € 1.000 per awardee.

Application for 2021 is open!

Please follow the guidelines below:

ESDO facilitates onsite trainings in our selected centres within the respective COVID regulations.
The decision on possible dates remains with the individual hosts in each country.
The selection process will start after the application deadline, giving equal chances to all applicants.

Notifications will be sent out by the end of January.

More information on ESDO web page. 

Project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" has been completed

The project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" has been successfully completed, LZP reg. number lzp-2018 / 2-0228, project manager, leading researcher of our institute dr.med. Ilze Kikuste.
The aim of the project study was to generate new knowledge about the origin, mechanisms and use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for gastric cancer screening by detecting VOCs in exhalation.
During the project, five publications were published in internationally cited editions, as well as the results of the project were presented at several international conferences.
Thanks to the project team for their work!

  

* Project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" is funded by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Program. Program is implemented by Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-0228 

Be health PERSISTent - the future is in your hands!

PERSIST Project news

Oncology is a highly evidence-based speciality and cancer data are critical to treatment planning. However, as precision medicine capabilities grow, those decisions likely will become more complex. PERSIST aim to show the potential of big data technology for making fundamental changes in care delivery for cancer survivors. 

Partners in the PERSIST consortium continue to work on designing a patients-centered SurvivorShip care plan that supports medical decision-making and improves care after cancer treatment. 
PERSIST can help especially to the health services like patient-reported outcomes, patient satisfaction scoring, identifying high-risk patients and giving them the appropriate treatment, and supporting patients who are either at high risk of reoccurrence. 

About some core technological and organizational challenges PERSIST project must overcome please read HERE. 

It is possible to get acquainted with news from PERSIST project partners HERE un HERE.

All partners talk about involvement in the project - PERSIST H2020 and how they help project partners in short videos - HERE. 

You can follow the news of the PERSIST project as well: 
TWITTER.COM 
FACEBOOK 
LINKEDIN
On PERSIST project web page

 

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 875406

Invites to a seminar on preparing manuscripts for publication in a scientific journal

We would like to remind you that this week the seminar of the Doctoral School “Translation in Medical Research” will take place: Preparation of manuscripts for publication in the scientific journal III.

The seminar will be chaired by the Chairperson of the Doctoral School, Assoc. prof. Ilva Daugule.

The seminar will take place online, on Google.

This time you don't have to apply for the seminar, please see link to the event below:

meet.google.com/psf-ijhv-emz

The seminar will take place on November, 27, 15:00 - 16:30 pm.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1214088392294320

In the research article, LU KPMI researchers analyzes the roles of relationships and ethics in becoming biobank donors

Based on interviews conducted within the framework of the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers” funded by the Latvian Council of Science, LU KPMI researchers Signe Mežinska, Ilze Mileiko and Jekaterina Kalēja have published an article in PLOS ONE magazine - "Becoming and being a biobank donor: The role of relationships and ethics".

Research biobanks are collections of human biological samples (eg blood, tissue, urine, exhaled air) and related data. Biobanks are needed to conduct research relevant to public health, disease diagnosis and treatment. However, the operation of biobanks also raises many ethical questions about how to obtain the informed consent of each donor of biological samples, what research to issue samples from the biobank, how to inform the public about the results of research, and so on. It is also important to promote public confidence in biobanks and the credibility of biobanks.

The aim of the article is to analyze the role of the biobank in decision-making and the process of donating biological samples to the relatives and friends of biobank donors, and what ethical issues arise in this context. The article analyzes 40 semi-structured interviews with biobank donors and researchers. The results suggest that kinship or other close relationships play an important role in motivating donors to engage in biobanking, risk and benefit assessment, and decisions about receiving individual research results. The interviews raised ethical issues related to the provision of information on the health of relatives to the biobank and the provision of information on individual research findings that may affect the relatives of the donor. The article concludes that there is a lack of information and guidance on what information on relatives donors can provide to the biobank without their informed consent and when the relatives themselves become participants in the study, in particular in relation to the implementation of the EU General Data Protection Regulation. Researchers in Latvia and the EU also face ethical dilemmas in informing donor relatives about individual research results, but donors need more information in the consent process about the potential significance of research results for relatives.

The article can be viewed HERE.

 
The project is supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

Europe Biobank Week 2020 is over

Europe Biobank Week 2020 (EBW) took place for the first time in virtual format from 17 to 20 November. The largest biobank conference in Europe was fully digitized this year! The conference is a joint work of the ESBB (European, Middle Eastern and African Biobanking Association) and BBMRI-ERIC (European Biobanking Research Infrastructure).

This year's event was fully published online, creating new opportunities to attend the sessions and fully enjoy the excellent scientific insights of the speakers and the panel. At the same time, it continues to allow biobanking professionals to consult, engage, share knowledge and best practices, as in the traditional EBW edition.

The event was attended by a total of 675 visitors and sponsors! Including LU KPMI researchers.

All first digital EBW sessions are available online up to 3 months after the conference: europebiobankweek.eu.

The format and dates of next year's conference # EBW21 will be announced soon, follow the latest information HERE.

Invites to submit thesis to the International Scientific Conference on Medicine

We kindly invite to submit abstracts for the International Scientific Conference on Medicine, which is part of the annual 79th Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia and will be held on April  23-24, 2021. The conference will cover a variety of disciplines in clinical and research medicine, pharmacy and public health.  

The events of the conference are planned in a hybrid form, both online and on-site in Riga.  

Abstract submission will be possible until 10 January 2021. Abstracts from both seasoned and upcoming researchers are welcome.

The abstract requirements can be found online. In the spirit of fostering international collaboration, participation is free of charge. Certificates of attendance with credit points for further education will be awarded to those attending the conference.

For inquiries regarding the conference, please contact the Organizing Committee via medconference@lu.lv. 

You can also follow the news related to the conference on Facebook.

European Cancer Summit 2020

The European Cancer Summit will take place on November 18-19, with the slogan this year "Working Together Against Cancer: Breaking Down Barriers & Saving Lives". 

This year’s European Cancer Summit, with best-ever line up of speakers and a programme focused on the most important topics in cancer for a wide-ranging discussion - just a few weeks before Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is due to be announced in early December. Together will be brought leading oncology experts, patient advocates, politicians and policy-makers to discuss the main issues impacting cancer policy, for the benefit of cancer patients, healthcare professionals and all people across Europe. 

The virtual European Cancer Summit 2020 will be a lively event, allowing interaction and networking between the delegates and speakers (as well as with each other!).

Everyone interested is invited in attending the European Cancer Summit 2020 to register HERE.

More information on Summit - HERE. 

The WHO clinical trial “Solidarity” initiation visit has taken place in Latvia

On November 3, the World Health Organization (WHO) "Solidarity" international study initiation visit took place at Riga East University Hospital (RAKUS). Leading researchers - Head of the Toxicology and Sepsis Clinic Dr. Oleg Šuba and Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital infectologist, hepatologist Dr. Pauls Aldiņš, as well as RAKUS anesthesiologist, resuscitator Dr. Agija Svare and Krista Holsta, Senior Expert of the Clinical Trials Division of the State Agency of Medicines.

During the visit, the researchers received detailed instructions on the involvement of patients in the clinical trial, in accordance with the requirements of the study protocol, the use of study drugs and the reporting of adverse reactions.

Solidarity is an international clinical trial looking for the most effective treatment strategy for Covid-19. The WHO-led study has so far included 12,000 people in 500 different hospitals in 30 countries. The study looked at the effects of different medicines on three important aspects of treating Covid-19 patients: mortality, the need for artificial lung ventilation and length of hospital stay. The study is adaptive because, in the case of new evidence, it is accompanied by drugs that are being tested for effects.

The Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia also participates in this study as a cooperation partner.

        

Author of a picture: NIAID

* “Solidarity” clinical trial is supported by the National Research Program “Covid-19 Mitigation” project “Covid-19 infection clinical, biochemical, immunogenetic paradigms, and their correlation with socio-demographic, etiological, pathogenetic, diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic guidelines factors ”, Project no. VPP-COVID-2020 / 1-0023

The Jekabpils Regional Center of the GISTAR study has concluded its activities

The Jekabpils Regional Center of the GISTAR study has concluded its activities. In total, the center included 1,386 respondents between September 2, 2019 and October 30, 2020. The administrative manager of the research Aiga Rūdule thanked the employees of Jēkabpils Research Center for the work done, as well as the representatives of Jēkabpils Regional Hospital for their support in the implementation of the research.

In Latvia, the GISTAR study was launched in October 2013 in Cēsis, and so far it has also taken place in such Latvian cities as Alūksne, Ludza, Saldus, Tukums, Dobele, Madona and Rēzekne.

We can also be proud to note that since the start of the study in 2013, as of the end of October this year, 9,702 respondents have been included in the GISTAR study.

The GISTAR team is planning to expand the research in other Latvian municipalities and is already actively working on the organization of the next research center in Kuldiga, which will start operating at the beginning of next year.
   

* GISTAR study is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" 

The annual conference of the StoP Project is taking place 

The annual conference of the Stomach cancer Pooling (StoP) Project is taking place online today. 

The Stomach cancer Pooling (StoP) Project is a consortium of epidemiological studies of gastric cancer.

The project started in July 2012, based on a core group of 10 studies. Several investigators joined the project during the last few years, and the consortium now counts over 30 studies from different world areas.

The main aim of the StoP Project is to examine the role of several lifestyle and genetic determinants in the aetiology of gastric cancer, through pooled analyses of individual-level data, after central collection and validation of the original datasets.

V. 3.0 of the StoP Project harmonized database has been released in year 2019, including 33 studies and a total of 12,753 cases and 30,682 controls.

More information on StoP Project - HERE. 

At the online workshop discusses on actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states

Today an online workshop “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states” isl takeing place. The aim of the workshop is to exchange experience and discuss actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states, as well as to present the results of the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers”, this project is funded by the Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-01710. The co-organizer of the workshop is BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure – European Research Infrastructure Consortium).  

The seminar is led by Signe Mežinska, Associate Professor, Leading Researcher of LU KPMI.

The seminar program can be viewed HERE.  

The project is supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

The Embassy of Good Science - a new site for international scientific collaboration in the field of research ethics and integrity

A new platform for scientific collaboration on research ethics and integrity is launched today at The Embassy of Good Science. In June 2019, consortia of two Horizon 2020 projects pledged to set up such a central site for responsible and honest research, which is now recognized as a promising initiative by Nature. Within the framework of the H2020 project VIRT2UE, the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia has also participated in the establishment of The Embassy of Good Science.

To date, wiki functionality has been used primarily to create the world's largest online encyclopedia. The Embassy of Good Science uses Wikipedia's experience and open mentality to add new features to help the scientific community generate knowledge and understanding of good scientific practice. This knowledge is freely available to everyone. With this openness, the creators of the site hope to promote public confidence in science. The Covid-19 crisis has shown how detrimental to the creation of reliable, high-quality knowledge and to society as a whole can be "fast science". The aim of a The Embassy of Good Science is to make the voices of scientists who seek to address societal challenges sound through sound research and innovation.

On this site, experienced researchers will be able to set an example by sharing their knowledge and views on topics that interest or concern them in the field of research ethics. Teachers will have the opportunity to develop curricula on research ethics and integrity in science that can be used for face-to-face or online study. Doctoral students will be able to ask questions about difficult situations and seek help anonymously. This site will not be able to use social links, engage business interests, and will not be distracted by ads. The Embassy of Good Science will rely solely on the motivation and commitment of researchers to promote good scientific practice.

 

The Embassy of Good Science has been developed within the framework of EnTIRE and VIRT2UE projects in cooperation with 13 universities and 2 companies. The EnTIRE and VIRT2UE projects have received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research program (contracts N 741782 and N 787580)

GISTAR study from the new year - in Kuldiga

At the beginning of next year, the digestive disease prevention study GISTAR will start operating at Kuldiga Regional Hospital.

In anticipation of this event, Skrunda Television has created a story about the research as such, as well as about the opening of the new research center.

In the story, the scientific leader of the research, Marcis Leja, says that by participating in the GISTAR study, not a single participant has saved a life by discovering a malignant disease in a timely manner.
Professor Leja notes that every year gastric cancer is detected in 600 people in Latvia, while intestinal cancer - in 1,100. However, unfortunately, most of the diagnosis is very late. Therefore, citizens are encouraged to take the opportunity and the GISTAR research center to check their health in a timely manner.

The support of local governments is also very important in the implementation of the research. And now funds have been found for the establishment of a research center in Kuldiga Hospital.
Agris Rozenfelds, Chairman of the Board of Kuldīga Hospital, says that the hospital will provide premises for the implementation of the project, as well as local specialists are currently actively sought for the implementation of the project.

So far, the study has been conducted in Cēsis, Alūksne, Ludza, Dobele, Saldus, Tukums, Madona, Rēzekne and Jēkabpils, and almost 10,000 respondents are already involved in the study.

Currently, the research in Kuldiga is planned for 1.5 years until the middle of 2022, but in case of higher activity of the population, the possibility to continue its implementation for a longer period of time will be evaluated.

The TV broadcast can be viewed HERE.

 

* GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions"

In the latest podcast "Protect Your Heads!" series visits Mārcis Leja to talk about cancer treatment

In the October series, the host of the program will be visited by LU KPMI director Mārcis Leja, who is one of Latvia's leading cancer researchers. Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, after cardiovascular disease, but the European Union has made the fight against cancer one of its top health priorities. How is it going in Latvia? Can bladders and homeopathy help fight cancer? Why should we think of cancer as a chronic disease? Will cancer be diagnosed by exhalation soon and treated by nanorobots? Is cancer determined by genes or by lifestyle and the environment? Answers to these and other questions in the program.

Political scientist and Member of the European Parliament Ivars Ijabs, as well as science popularizer Vents Zvaigzne, talk to Latvian scientists in the podcast "Protect your heads!"

You can listen to the show HERE.

Marcis Leja is visiting the TV show "Dr. Apinis"

On October 19th broadcast with dr. Apinis was visited by the director of our institute, Professor Marcis Leja.
The theme of the program is "State-paid colorectal cancer screening".
M.Leja provided an insight into why people don't want to use a colon cancer screening system.

The program was also attended by:
Dins Šmits, member of the board of the group of health companies Repharm 
Anija Pelūde, editor-in-chief of the magazine "Ievas Veselība"
Baiba Putniņa, proctologist

The recording of the TV show can be viewed:
Part 1
Part 2

Picture: Screenshot from the broadcast

Invites to attend the online workshop on actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states

We kindly invite to attend the online workshop “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states” which will take place on October 29, 2020. The aim of the workshop is to exchange experience and discuss actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states, as well as to present the results of the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers”, this project is funded by the Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-01710. The co-organizer of the workshop is BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure – European Research Infrastructure Consortium).  

All participants are welcome to register for the workshop via email madara.kalberga@lu.lv by October 27, 2020.

Registration is free of charge, and the registered participants will receive Zoom link and password to join the workshop.

The seminar program can be viewed HERE.  

The project is supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

We are participating in the Icebreakers'20 festival with a discussion on biobanks

On Friday, October 9 the Student Business Opportunities Festival Icebreakers'20 took place in virtual format at the Science House of the Academic Center of the University of Latvia.

The Business Opportunity Festival for students and young professionals "Icebreakers" is a gathering place for students and young professionals, where from university researchers, scientists and innovative entrepreneurs they can learn the latest about innovative business opportunities, as well as get current information about various industries.

The main theme of this year's festival was "New Reality", emphasizing the changing and unpredictable environment in which everyone could find opportunities.

Representatives of our institute also participated in this festival with a discussion "Biobanking and Big Data".
During the conversation was discussed what is a biobank, what data is stored there. Big data creation, storage, HPC program and bioinformatics. Opportunities for students to participate in scientific research, to participate in the activities of the institute and where they can turn if they are interested were also discussed.

The discussion was attended by:
Elīza Avotiņa (moderator, LU KPMI)
Prof. Mārcis Leja (LU KPMI)
Lauris Cikovskis (RTU)
Baiba Vilme (RSU)

More information about the festival HERE. 

  

Picture: Toms Grinbergs, LU

The international congress United European Gastroenterology Week Virtual 2020 is taking place

Data from the European Helicobacter pylori Register, including trends in treatment efficacy in Europe 2013-2020, were presented at the virtual United European Gastroenterology Week on October 11. The presentation received the Best Abstract award. The absolute majority of Latvian patients are included in the Digestive Diseases Centre GASTRO (thanks to Irēna Šitikova!), while research support (including databases) was provided by the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia.

One of the meetings of the Congress “H. pylori: what is the best treatment in 2020 ” was headed by Marcis Leja, Director of LU KPMI.

Young researchers of KPMI of the University of Latvia participated with online poster presentations.

• 
  Doctoral student Linda Mežmale presented a poster presentation on the topic “Analysis of volatile organic compounds released by gastric juice” and won the UEG National Scholarship Award 2020. Every year, this award is given to promising young researchers up to 35 years, whose theses are evaluated with the highest rating.

The results of the research of the KPMI project “VOGAS” and “Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening” were reported in the report of L. Mežmale Stand.

Information available at: https://ueg.eu/opportunities/congress-opportunities/national-scholarship-awards

• 
  Danute Ražuka-Ebela, a young scientist involved in the scientific work of the University of Latvia KPMI, also participated in the conference with two presentations.

The aim of D. Ražuka-Ebela's work was to investigate what sociodemographic, lifestyle and nutritional factors may be associated with gastric atrophy identified serologically by determining blood levels of pepsinogens. Hence the aim of the second study - which of these factors could increase the possibility that gastric atrophy fails to be detected serologically and is "missed."
D. Ražuka-Ebela's presentations reflected the data of LU KPMI's largest study - GISTAR.

In the picture: data presentation by Olga Nyssen (Spain)

* GISTAR study is funded by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions"

* VOGAS project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824986 
* Project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" is funded by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Program. Program is implemented by Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-0228 
 

Cancers 2020 Young Investigator Awards (2,000 CHF)

The Cancers 2020 Young Investigator Awards will be given to two young investigators in recognition of their excellence in the field of oncology. All nominations will be assessed by an evaluation committee. Nominations for this award will remain open until 31 December 2020.

More information HERE.

Cancers 2020 Outstanding Reviewer Award (1,000 CHF)

In recognition of the hard work of the reviewers of Cancers, an award will be dedicated to two reviewers for their commitment, professionalism, and timeliness in reviewing manuscripts for Cancers. The winners will be entitled to publish one paper free of charge in 2021.

More information HERE.

A review of the GISTAR study is published in a Japanese scientific journal

In Certified NPO Japan Gastric Cancer Prediction, Diagnosis, and Treatment Research Organization latest journal  “Gastric Cancer Screening Using a Test of Risk Stratification (ABC Screening) ~ For Prediction, Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy for Gastric Cancer ~" is published an overwiev article on GISTAR study - "Report of a gastric cancer prevention RCT study by predicting atrophic gastritis; GISTAR study conducted by WHO".

The book contains English Summary and References at the end of each article, wich shows latest results and useful knowledge on the new Japanesegastric cancer screening method, using combined assay for serum anti-H-pylori IgG antibody and serum pepsinogen levels, and written by wide variety of Japanese authors of top experts in the gastric cancer study field. 

The summary of the article can be found HERE.

Month and year of publication:  December 2019
Publisher:  Nanzando Co., Ltd.
Publication place:  Tokyo

* GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions"

The Baltic-German Higher Education Office invites to submit project applications for the 2021 project competition

Higher education institutions and scientific institutions of the Baltic States, which plan to implement projects in cooperation with a German partner, are eligible for support in the project competition.

The first application round ends this year, October 15 (project implementation time from 01.02.2021 to 31.10.2021).

A short description of the project competition can be viewed HERE.

More information about the project competition, guidelines and application forms are available on the website of the Baltic-German Higher Education Office: www.hochschulkontor.lv/projekti/

 

Highlights of the "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center" project in the third quarter of 2020

IT Center of Competence pursuant to Contract Nr. 1.2.1.1/18/A/003 of May 9, 2019 with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency  is implementing the project "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center".

In the third quarter of 2020, the project continues the implementation of all approved studies and launches one new study. The fifth request for payment has been prepared and submitted, and meetings of both the heads of scientific directions and the council are held regularly, where the progress of the implemented research and the achieved results are reviewed. In order to reduce the risk of infection with Covid-19, most of the meetings took place entirely or partially remotely. The difficulties caused by Covid-19 have in some cases affected the timing of the studies, but in general the implementation of the studies has not been significantly affected.

Highlights of the implemented researches:
• SIA “Datorzinību centrs” and University of Latvia research No. 1.5 “Development of a research support model to improve the medical research data collection process” started in May 2019. In the third quarter of 2020, the first activity of the industrial research “Development of the Research Support Model” was completed and the implementation of the second activity “Development of the Concept of Technological Implementation of the Research Support Model” is being continued.

 

The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Operational Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.2.1. Specific objective 1.2.1.1 of the Specific objective "Increase private sector investment in R&D". the measure "Support for the development of new products and technologies within centers of competence"

An article by KPMI researchers is published in the journal Helicobacter

The article "Lack of significant differences between gastrointestinal tract microbial population structure of Helicobacter pylori-infected subjects before and 2 years after a single eradication event" is published in the journal Helicobacter. 

According to recent estimates 80% of Latvian population is infected with Helicobacter pylori thus their susceptibility to numerous gastric tract diseases is increased. The 1st line H. pylori eradication therapy includes treatment with clarithromycin in combination with amoxicillin or metronidazole and a proton pump inhibitor. However, potential adverse events caused by such therapies to microbiome are insufficiently studied.

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effect of H. pylori eradication on human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) microbiome.

The study concludes that modest global differences at the community level exist between individuals before and after the eradication therapy; however, the microbiome structure is more related to the subject-specific parameters rather than by the eradication therapy itself.

The article can be viewed HERE. 

 

The work was supported by the ERDF project No. 1.1.1.1/16/A/272 “Long-term effects of H pylori eradication on Gastrointestinal tract microbiome and development of screening system for detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase coding genes within feces samples”

Invites to the seminar of the Doctoral School “Translations in Research in Medicine”: RESEARCH PLANNING AND PROJECT PREPARATION: THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS

The seminar will be led by - Dr.med., Prof. Marcis Leja.
 
The seminar will take place online - on the Micsoroft teams platform!
Please send your application for participation in the seminar in time to the school's e-mail: doktoranturas.skola@gmail.com or by sending a letter on the Facebook page.
 
Every participant who applies for participation will receive an invitation link to the seminar in their e-mail on the day of the seminar (10 minutes before).
 
The seminar will take place on 02.10. 15:00 - 16:30.

Progress evaluation of the project "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening" is underway

In order to evaluate the work done so far in the project "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening” and to mark further work, a project team from LU KPMI and project supervisors from the Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) gathered for a joint meeting on September 23, this year.

At the meeting, the scientific leader of the project, Professor Mārcis Leja, presented the project activities that have been implemented so far during the project implementation, as well as briefly described the further actions to be taken.

In turn, specialists from LIAA gave valuable advice for further successful implementation of the project, as well as praised the work done so far.

The main goal of the project is to develop a portable nanosensor express analyzer for gastric cancer screening to detect gastric cancer and precancerous conditions using technology that detects exhaled volatile organic compounds.

The project was launched in 2018, and in the meantime ethical applications have been prepared, questionnaires have been developed, two new electronic nasal analyzers have been purchased, and significant improvements have been made to one existing device, and a prototype instrument validation study has been carried out.

Students of the Medical Faculty of the University of Latvia and resident doctors of the Riga East Clinical University Hospital were involved in the validation of portable express analyzer devices.

Recruitment of participants in the project was started in July 2020, and at the same time, recruitment of patients was started at the GISTAR research center in Jēkabpils. In total, the study aims to collect data from 200-300 patients. The developing respiratory model of the disease is intended for early diagnosis of gastric cancer or high-risk mucosal changes. Patients who will experience these changes during the study will be asked to have a free upper endoscopy.

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) within the framework of the measure 1.2.1.2. "Support for the Development of Technology Transfer System", Project ID Nr. KC-PI-2017/75 "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening

An article on the Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori has been published

In the latest issue of Helicobacter magazine "The Year in Helicobacter" is published a review article on the global distribution of Helicobacter pylori "Review: Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori". This article summarizes the latest information on the epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori and possible types of infection.

The first author of the article "Review: Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori" is Linda Mežmale, a research assistant of our institute, and the employees of LU KPMI in cooperation with foreign colleagues participated in its creation.

In total, "The Year in Helicobacter" consists of 32 publications; in addition to English language publications, the authors have included original language publications from Latin America and Russia.

Link to the article abstract available HERE.

The first serious virtual conference in gastroenterology - EHMSG 2020 - has passed 

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic the 33rd Workshop of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group  was held in a virtually compact version on Saturday, September 12, 2020.

One of the congress symposiums "Gastric Cancer – Early detection and prevention 2020" was chaired by Mārcis Leja, Director of the KPMI.

Scientists from the KPMI also participated with E-poster presentations.

Representatives of our research team gave 6 E-poster presentations:

Linda Mežmale gave two presentations:
"Application of gold nanoparticles and metal oxide sensors for non-invasive detection of gastric cancer"
"Identification of volatile organic compounds emitted by gastric juice".

Alise Lielause gave the presentation "The comparison of side effects and effectiveness of standard triple therapy with clarithromycin and alternative high-dose amoxicillin / bismuth therapy in eradication of H.pylori".

Jeļizaveta Aleksejeva gave the presentation "H. pylori prevalence in individuals with allergic disease in the Latvian population".

Arta Deniņa gave the presentation "Comparison of glucose and lactulose breath test results for detecting small intestinal bacterial overgrowth".

Pawel Mochalski's report "In vitro profiling of volatile organic compounds released and consumed by CLS-145 and HGC-27 gastric cancer cell lines" was also presented.

The results of KPMI's largest study GISTAR, VOGAS, "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" and other researches of the institute were reported in the form of E-poster presentations.

In the picture: LU KPMI research assistant Linda Mežmale with E-poster presentation

* VOGAS project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824986 
* GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions"
* Project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" is funded by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Program. Program is implemented by Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-0228 

Congratulations to the newly admitted doctoral students of the University of Latvia!

We congratulate the newly admitted doctoral students of the University of Latvia, whose doctoral dissertation topics are related to KPMI.

Andrejs Pčolkins

Thesis topic "Prevention of surgical complications in colorectal cancer surgery by performing mechanical bowel preparation with non-absorbable antibiotics", supervisors - M.Leja and A.Sīviņš, branch of science - Surgery.

Ilze Enģele

Thesis topic "Identification of radiological biomarkers using contrast mammography for patients with breast cancer", supervisors - J.Eglītis and M.Leja, branch of science - Oncology / hematology.

Liene Sondore

Thesis topic "Compliance of dietary habits of the risk group population of Latvia with the recommendations of the World Health Organization and their relation to the risk of non-infectious diseases", supervisors D.Šantare and I.Daugule, branch of science - Public Health.

Congratulations to the staff of our institute in new positions!

At the annual staff meeting held on September 4, which took place for the first time this year at the Science House of the Academic Center of the University of Latvia, the staff looked back and discussed the upcoming events in the new academic year.

Acknowledgments and thanks were presented at the meeting, as well as employees who have taken up new positions were welcomed.

Among them, the leading researcher of our institute Dr.med. Sergey Isajev has become a professor this year.

PhD Manohar Prasad Bhandari, head of the postdoctoral research project, has been elected as a leading researcher at KPMI.

Congratulations!

© Photo: Toms Grīnbergs, University of Latvia

Invites to a webinar on the EU Health Policy Platform

Digestive Cancers Europe (DiCE) European umbrella organisation of a large group of national Members representing patients with digestive cancer invites interested parties to register for the second live webinar:

"The Financials of CRC Screening - Better Investments to Save More Lives"

 which will take place on the EU Health Policy Platform on October 7, 10:00am.

This is the second in a series of webinars as a part of the European Health Policy Platform's Thematic Network: 'Colorectal Cancer Screening in the European Union' led by Digestive Cancers Europe in partnership with the European Commission.

Please join and continue to help shape EU policy by contributing to Joint Statement on Colorectal Cancer Screening in the EU.

Register for the live Webinar HERE.

More information: www.digestivecancers.eu

Invites to participate in the development of the Horizon Europe First Strategic Plan

We invite you to take this opportunity to follow the European Commission's call for your views on the forthcoming Horizon Europe First Strategic Plan (2021-2027) by participating in an online survey. Its results will be used to finalize the strategic plan and clarify the impact logic that will guide the future work programs of Horizon Europe.

The survey is available on the EUSurvery portal, the submission deadline is September 18.

We invite you to be active and use this opportunity!

The PERSIST project receives permission from the Ethics Committee

The PERSIST project, launched in January this year, has seen a major milestone: the study has received permission from the Ethics Committee.
 
The PERSIST project is a care plan for cancer survivors based on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence technologies. The project is being led by the Spanish ICT Technology Center Gradiant in cooperation with the University of Latvia and other partners from several countries.
 
The expertise of the PERSIST project partners will be pooled to develop an innovative platform to support physicians in making decisions to improve care for patients after cancer treatment.
 
Within the framework of the PERSIST project, the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia will ensure the course of the clinical trial.

  

Project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 875406

Get involved in beating cancer, because cancer affects us all! Citizens are invited to express their opinion!

Healthy people want to stay healthy, patients and their families fighting cancer benefit from better therapy, cancer patients expect a better quality of life after treatment, and better support for carers is needed. Health and well-being are the concern of us all. 

Your opinion is important - say it! What is relevant for you? Which actions do you think are most important in the fight against cancer? Your feedback board will use it to adjust the plan. Let's join forces, because together we will beat cancer better!

The following measures are therefore envisaged:

1) On August 28, joined the conversation organized by the Cancer Mission Council on Twitter

 #MissionCancer #EUmissions #HorizonEU.

2) Citizens will be able to submit proposals to the webpage from 31/08 to 04/09 
https://getinvolvedinmissions.eu/conferences/cancer/f/113/

3) The details of the event in Latvia will appear here:

https://getinvolvedinmissions.eu/assemblies/cancerlv

Read more about the activities of the European Commission's Cancer Mission HERE. 

 

Today there will be a public discussion "Relevance of European Cancer Mission recommendations for cancer patients in Latvia"

Today, August 21, at 16.00 Cancer patients and their organizations, doctors, politicians and other interested parties will take part in the discussion with the aim to identify current problems for Latvian cancer patients in the context of the 13 recommendations for combating cancer developed by the European Cancer Mission Council. It will be possible to participate in the discussion remotely, and a representative of the Council of the European Cancer Mission, Director of the LU KPMI, Professor Mārcis Leja will make a presentation.

The event will be opened a representative of the management of the University of Latvia, as well as the acting head of the European Commission Representation in Latvia Andris Kužnieks. This will be followed by a presentation by Professor Mārcis Leja, a representative of the European Cancer Mission Council and the Director of the LU KPMI, in which special attention will be paid to the most important recommendations developed by the European Cancer Mission Council for Latvian cancer patients. Harijs Gals, founder of the Association of Lung Cancer Patients and Relatives, founder of the organization "Onaliance" will share his opinion, and Olga Valcina, founder of the organization "On the Front of Melanoma", founder of the organization "Onaliance", will give a presentation. At the end of the first part of the event, Evita Zālīte-Grosa, the head of the group of deputies for oncology patient support, a member of the Social and Labor Affairs Committee of the Saeima and a deputy of the 13th Saeima of the Republic of Latvia, will express her opinion.

In the second part of the event, both face-to-face and remote participants will participate in the discussion. The expressed opinions and expressed positions will allow to define the most important tasks for the promotion of the protection of the interests of Latvian cancer patients at the local and European Union level. The findings and conclusions of the discussion will serve as a basis for the development and transmission of a document confirming the common position to the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia and the European Commission. "In order to find long-term and sustainable solutions, it is necessary to promote joint dialogue and feedback with Latvian cancer patients and organizations representing their interests," emphasizes Professor Mārcis Leja, a representative of the Council of the European Cancer Mission and the director of the LU KPMI.

On August 21 from from 16.00 to 19.00 we invite media representatives and everyone interested to a public discussion dedicated to the European Cancer Mission:

in person, in the main building of the University of Latvia, Great Hall, 19 Raina Boulevard, Riga

or by registering for remote participation in the ZOOM platform: https://ej.uz/vezadiskusija and watching the live broadcast on the website of the University of Latvia https://ej.uz/vezadiskusija_tiesraide or on the Facebook page of the University of Latvia https://www.facebook.com/latvijasuniversitate/

The discussion is organized by the University of Latvia in cooperation with the European Commission Representation in Latvia. The Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia invites to the event.

"Morning Panorama"  - LU KPMI director, representative of the of the Council of the European Cancer Mission

In anticipation of the public discussion "Relevance of European Cancer Mission recommendations for cancer patients in Latvia" on August 20, the University of Latvia has invited the director of KPMI, the representative of the Council of the European Cancer Mission Council Marcis Leja.

DISCUSSION "Relevance of European Cancer Mission recommendations for cancer patients in Latvia"
WHEN? August 21 at 16:00
WHERE? University of Latvia (LU), Great Hall

WHO ORGANIZES?

European Commission Representation in Latvia

University of Latvia

INVITES - Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine

SUPPORT - SIA Roche Latvija

INFORMATIC SUPPORTER - SIA "Divi gani sabiedriskās attiecības" 

OBJECTIVE OF THE MEASURE - to identify current problems of Latvian cancer patients and to discuss the 13 recommendations for combating cancer developed by the Council of the European Cancer Mission.

The interview with M.Leja can be viewed HERE.

Picture: Screenshot from the interview

The Latvian competition of the EEA and NFI Baltic Research Program will be announced

The forthcoming Latvian competition of the Baltic Research Program is planned to be announced on August 19, 2020 and project applications will be able to be submitted in five different topics. Information about the competition and documents will be published on the European Economic Area and Norwegian grant website.

The Baltic Research Program is one of the activities of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism (NFI) Program “Research and Education”, which strengthens Baltic research co-operation.
                           
The State Education Development Agency and the Latvian Ministry of Education and Science invite scientists, applicants for scientific degrees, doctoral students and cooperation project managers from scientific institutions in Latvia, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Estonia, Lithuania, as well as other countries to participate in the European Economic Area and Norwegian Financial Mechanism to participate in "Baltic Research Programs" Latvian competition opening event online (ZOOM) on August 26 at 10:00 - 13:00.

Registration for the seminar until August 21 by filling in the application is available HERE.

Event program available HERE.

More information - HERE.

Deadline for submission of Marie Skłodowska-Curie scholarship competition projects - September 9!

Project applications are invited by 9 September 2020 for calls for proposals under the MSCA's Individual Fellowships sub-program, including the Horizon Sklodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship Call for the Horizon 2020 sub-program of the Horizon 2020 research and innovation support program.

They provide individual mobility grants of 12-36 months for the most promising experienced researchers of any nationality and age for employment in the Member States of the European Union or in the countries associated with Horizon 2020. IF project applications are prepared by researchers in collaboration with the host organization, without thematic restrictions. Each researcher may submit only one application to the competition, but host organizations may admit more than one researcher.

On August 18, 2020 the Horizon 2020 National Contact Point will hold an online seminar on the Open Skills Individual Fellowships for the Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska Curie Actions (MSCA). The online seminar will tell project applicants about the conditions of participation and the project application process.

The webinar will inform project applicants about the Individual Scholarship in the latest Horizon 2020 project competition. Participants will be introduced to the conditions of participation, as well as provide practical information on how to submit project applications on the Funding & Tenders portal.

The webinar will take place on the online platform Zoom at 13:00 - 14:30 and can be registered online until 17 August, 12.00.

A guide for project applicants and 11 steps to a successful project.

A public debate on the European Cancer Mission will be held

On August 21, the University of Latvia (UL) and the European Commission Representation in Latvia are organizing a public discussion dedicated to the European Cancer Mission. Its aim is to identify current problems for Latvian cancer patients and to discuss the 13 recommendations for beating cancer developed by the Council of the European Cancer Mission. Cancer patients and their organizations, doctors, politicians and other stakeholders are invited to participate.

The discussion will serve as a platform for the exchange of views, promoting dialogue between all parties involved and allowing to set the main tasks for the promotion of the interests of Latvian cancer patients at the local and European Union level. Participation in the discussion will allow everyone present to share their experiences, express their views and be heard. After that, a written document confirming the common position of Latvian cancer patients' organizations will be sent to both the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Latvia and the European Commission. Thus, significant steps will be taken in promoting public health and defending the interests of Latvian cancer patients at both the national and international levels. The European Cancer Mission is one of five European research and innovation missions and is part of the Horizon Europe Framework Program, which will be launched in 2021.

The event will be opened by the Rector of the University of Latvia Indriķis Muižnieks and the Acting Head of the European Commission Representation Andris Kužnieks. The part of the discussion will be introduced by the presentation of the Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia and the representative of Latvia in the Council of the European Cancer Mission, Professor Mārcis Leja, with special emphasis on recommendations for Latvian cancer patients. "Several of the recommendations made by the Council of the European Cancer Mission concern the protection of patients' interests. In the Latvian context, it is important to ensure and promote equality among all patients. This can be achieved by improving screening programs, as well as by establishing accredited cancer centers in Latvia. However, the main goal of the discussion is to get feedback from Latvian cancer patients' organizations and inform the European Commission about the most significant findings”, explains Mārcis Leja, a representative of the Council of the European Cancer Mission and Professor of the University of Latvia.

The discussion will take place on August 21 in the main building of the University of Latvia, in the Great Hall, 19 Raina Boulevard, from 16:00 - 19:00. It will also be possible to join remotely, a link will be sent to registered participants by e-mail shortly before the event.

You can apply for the discussion in person or remotely here: https://ej.uz/vezadiskusija. 

The discussion is organized by the University of Latvia in cooperation with the European Commission Representation in Latvia. The Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia invites to the event.

 

The latest news on the activities of the European Commission's Cancer Mission

In September 2019, the Science and Innovation (R&I) Day is takeing place in Brussels. During these days, the European Commission (EC) also officially launched a new form of action - mission-based science, already known in other parts of the world, but first introduced at European Union level.
The importance of missions is to bring science into a way that is understandable, usable and recognizable to the public.
A total of five missions have been set up to address the EC's identified hot topics - Clean Cities, Clean Oceans, Clean Environment and Nutrition, Adaptation to Climate Change and the Cancer Mission. The latter is represented by Professor Marcis Leja, Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, University of Latvia.

In December 2019, the the second meeting of the Cancer Mission set up by the European Commission with representatives of EU Member States takes place in Brussels.

In January 2020 in in Brussels Oncology Meeting outlined the new EU Beating Cancer Plan and gaved a brief overview of the activities of the EU Cancer Mission.

In February 2020, The first joint meeting of the EC Cancer Mission Council and the Assembly of this mission took place in Brussels, to discuss actions to be taken in the strategic planning documents.

Cancer affects everyone regardless of age, gender or social status and represents a tremendous burden for patients, families, and societies at large. By joining efforts across Europe, more people would live without cancer, more cancer patients would be diagnosed earlier, would suffer less and have a better quality of life after treatment.

Partly inspired by the Apollo 11 mission to put a man on the moon, the European research and innovation missions aim to deliver solutions to some of the greatest challenges facing our world. 

More information:  https://ec.europa.eu/mission-cancer #EUmissions #MissionCancer

Cancer Mission video is now on-line on Youtube.

 

The results of the LZP-funded project have been published in an internationally cited ethics journal

Based on the results of a public survey conducted within the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers” funded by the Latvian Science Council, LU KPMI and Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center (BMC) researchers have published an article in the journal "BMC Medical Ethics".

Research biobanks are collections of human biological samples (eg blood, tissue, urine samples).

The aim of the survey was to find out the public's awareness and attitude towards research biobanks in Latvia, repeating the questions asked in the 2010 Eurobarometer survey.

Public awareness of research biobanks is important for the development and sustainability of biobanks.

Read full information about the published article HERE.

Link to the article HERE. 

In the picture: the author of the article, the leading researcher of LU KPMI Signe Mežinska

The work was supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

Topicalities of the project “Investigation of the relationship between gastric microbiome and volatile organic compounds for early diagnosis of gastric cancer” in the second quarter of 2020

On May 1, 2020, leading researcher, Manohar Prasad Bhandari (PhD in Information Engineering), started the work at LU KPMI, implementing the postdoctoral research project "Investigation of the relationship between gastric microbiome and volatile organic compounds for early diagnosis of gastric cancer".

In the period from 01.05.2020. until 31.07.2020., within the framework of the project, a literature analysis on the latest research on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the gastric microbiota, gastric tissues (products of cancer cell metabolism) and exhaled breath for an early detection of gastric cancer was performed. The scientific activities and tasks to be performed were determined, adapting the plan to the current situation in the conditions of limited mobility. The collection of samples for the GC-MS based analysis has already started.

Read more about this project activities HERE.

   

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) within the framework of the measure  1.1.1.2. "Postdoctoral Research Support" Round 3 ", Project ID Nr.1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/495 "Investigation of the relationship between gastric microbiome and volatile organic compounds for early diagnosis of gastric cancer"

Clinical validation study is being implemented in the project "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening"

Following the successful validation of portable express analyzer devices, a clinical validation study was initiated. This study included patients with a confirmed diagnosis of gastric cancer, patients with high-risk changes, and control patients with a known condition of the gastric mucosa.

The main goal is to validate clinical sensors by developing a model that will be able to distinguish the studied changes from the control measurements, and to further use this model in individuals with well-defined gastric changes.

The implementation of the project was significantly affected by the WHO statement of 11 March 2020 on the COVID-19 pandemic. An emergency situation was declared throughout the territory of Latvia until June 9, 2020 with the aim to limit the spread of COVID-19. To protect patients and physicians from possible COVID-19 infection, patient recruitment for the project was partially restricted until the end of the emergency. In the second half of June, restrictions on health care services in both public and private medical institutions were lifted and patient recruitment has actively resumed.

 

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) within the framework of the measure 1.2.1.2. "Support for the Development of Technology Transfer System", Project ID Nr. KC-PI-2017/75 "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening"

The GISTAR study is written about and shown on TV

We invite to get acquainted with the latest information about the largest study of LU KPMI - GISTAR written in Jēkabpils media and shown on TV.
Article in the information portal "Jēkabpils Laiks".
The television story of Vidusdaugava's TV​.

   

The GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions"

Participation in the "Covid-19 mitigation" project has started

On July 1, LU KPMI starts participating in one of the projects of the National Research Program “Covid-19 Mitigation” - “Clinical, biochemical, immunogenetic paradigms of Covid-19 infection, and their correlation with socio-demographic, etiological, pathogenetic, diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic significance”. factors to be included in the guidelines ’. The main goal of this project is to identify socio-demographic, clinical, biochemical, molecular and immunological factors caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, which affect susceptibility to the virus, the course and outcome of the disease, and to improve the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment.
LU KPMI specialists are involved in the 8th work package, which is related to two research areas. One of them is participation in the World Health Organisation's clinical study Solidarity, which will take place in cooperation with the State Agency of Medicines, Riga East University Hospital and Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital. This is an international clinical trial looking for the most effective treatment strategy for Covid-19 by evaluating the effects of different medications on the treatment of patients. The second area is the analysis of airborne air in patients with Covid-19 disease by developing and using special, mobile sensor equipment.

  

The research is funded within the framework of the State Research Program “Covid-19 Mitigation”, Project No. VPP-COVID-2020 / 1-0023

Anticipates a significant impact of the latest recommendations of the EU Mission for Cancer Report on improving the organization of the oncology industry in Latvia

European Commission has published the Interim Report of the EU Mission for Cancer containing altogether 13 Recommendations for Conquering Cancer in the EU. Establishment of comprehensive cancer infrastructure in each of the Member States, assuring the access to qualitative cancer screening, digital transformation, improved collaboration within and across the Member States are some of the key recommendations of this document.

The recommendations are expected to have an important role also for Latvia. 

The recommendations have been supported by experts (including from Mission for Cancer Assembly) and politicians.

Currently the text is presented to stakeholders in the EU Member States before submitting the final version to the Commission.

More information on the EU Mission for Cancer Report: HERE. 

ESDO news - the latest information on ESDO educational activities

European Society for Digestive Oncology informs about the planned educational activities::

• ESDO Masterclass in Berlin, November 6-7, 2020:

www.esdo.eu/education/esdo-master-class

• New slide decks from ASCO virtual symposium:

www.esdo.eu/publications/gi-slide-decks

 

TEAM OF KPMI WISHES JOYFUL LĪGO DAY AND ST.JOHN'S DAY!  

 

Students of Riga Stradins University defend their final theses - based on additional research of the GISTAR project

At Riga Stradins University, two students have defended their diploma theses, whose research is based on additional research of our institute's largest research GISTAR.

Ilze Indriksone-Gromova, a master's student of the Faculty of Public Health and Social Welfare program "Nutrition Science", conducted a study "Influence of Mediterranean eating habits on risk factors for cardiovascular disease in Jēkabpils population", while Rehabilitation faculty study program "Nutrition" bachelor's thesis defended Lelde Cīrule with her work “Evaluation of the compliance of the eating habits of the participants of the GISTAR project Jēkabpils with the Nordic diet”.

The students' research was led by the leading researcher of the institute Dr.med Daiga Šantare.

Dr.sc.ing. Inese Poļaka, the leading researcher of the institute, advised on the analysis of the research data. 

Highlights of the "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center" project in the second quarter of 2020

IT Center of Competence pursuant to Contract Nr. 1.2.1.1/18/A/003 of May 9, 2019 with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency  is implementing the project "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center".

In the second quarter of 2020, the project continues the implementation of all initially approved studies and launches two new research projects. The fourth request for payment has been prepared and submitted, and meetings of both the heads of scientific directions and the council are held regularly, where the progress of the implemented research and the achieved results are reviewed. In the emergency situation regarding the spread of Covid-19 due to national restrictions, all meetings took place remotely. Remote work and canceled measures have in some cases led to changes in the timing of research, but in general the implementation of research has not been significantly affected.

Highlights of the implemented researches:
• SIA “Datorzinību centrs” and University of Latvia research No. 1.5 “Development of a research support model to improve the medical research data collection process” started in May 2019. In the first quarter of 2020, the implementation of two industrial research activities will continue - “Development of the Research Support Model” and “Development of the Concept of Technological Implementation of the Research Support Model”.

The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Operational Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.2.1. Specific objective 1.2.1.1 of the Specific objective "Increase private sector investment in R&D". the measure "Support for the development of new products and technologies within centers of competence"

GISTAR project - among FLPP funded projects

We are proud that among the projects financed in the 1st competition of the Fundamental and Applied Research Projects of the Latvian Council of Science in 2018 in the field of Medical and Health Sciences, also is the project GISTAR implemented by LU KPMI!

More information - HERE. 

The GISTAR study is funded by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions".

Doctoral students of the Faculty of Computer Science will present at the seminar of the doctoral school

Doctoral students of the Faculty of Computer Science of the University of Latvia will present their topics at the next seminar of the Doctoral School "Translational research in medicine":
1. Maxim Ivanov with the topic "From neuronal morphology to sensorimotor integration: why to study the rat brain"
2. Aleksandrs Levinskis with the topic "Application of Kalman filter for sensor data processing"
The seminar will be held online, via https://meet.google.com/!

Please send your application to participate in the seminar in time to our school's e-mail (doktoranturas.skola@gmail.com) or by sending a letter on the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Doktoranturas.skola/)

Every participant who applies for participation will receive an invitation link to meet.google.com in their e-mail on the day of the seminar (10 minutes before), where they can join the seminar online.

The seminar will take place on 11.06. 16:15 - 17:45.

Facebook page of the seminar - HERE.

The latest newsletter of the PERSIST project has been published

Lead by Gradiant, Spanish ICT technology center in collaboration with the University of Latvia and eleven other partners, PERSIST was started in January 2020. 

The PERSIST project combine the expertise of its partners to develop an innovative platform that support the decision-making of medical doctors to improve the care of cancer survivors.

13 entities from 10 countries participate in this international research based on Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for the health industry.

The consortium, with partners from Spain, Italy, Austria, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Latvia, Switzerland, Portugal, Belgium and Turkey, is funded by the European Union with more than 5 million euros, under the Horizon 2020 program. 

Within the framework of the PERSIST project, Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia provide clinical research.

The May newsletter of the PERSIST project - HERE.

   

Project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 875406

Our students defend their diploma theses at the University of Latvia with an excellent grade

At the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Latvia, our students Alise Lielause and Arta Deniņa have defended their diploma theses with excellent marks in the Treatment program.
Both students are prospective doctors.
The topic of Alice Lielause's work "The comparison of side effects of standard triple therapy with clarithromycin and alternative high-dose amoxicillin and bismuth therapy in eradication of Helicobacter pylori", Artas Deniņa's work topic - "Detection of small intestinal bacterial colonization by exhalation test - comparison of glucose and lactulose tests".
The scientific supervisor of both works is Professor Marcis Leja, the director of our Institute.
Congratulations to both girls!

EHMSG 2020 goes virtual

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, it has been decided that the 33rd Workshop of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (originally scheduled to take place from September 10 – 12, 2020 in Glasgow, United Kingdom) will take place as a virtual conference in a compact version, on one day only - Saturday, September 12, 2020.

Both live and on demand talks as well as a platform for -Posters will be provided.

Abstract Submission has been extended until June 21, 2020 at 24.00hrs CET.
You can submit your e-Poster for presentation at the conference HERE.

Proper tools that allow similar elements of connectivity and involvement for all participants will be provided.

To guarantee the health and safety of our attendees, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and staff, the EHMSG Board has come to the conclusion that the conference cannot take place in its scheduled format this year.

In case of any questions please do not hesitate to contact by emailing: workshop@ehmsg.org.

More information about EHMSG 2020: https://www.workshop.ehmsg.org/.

Topics prepared by doctoral students: Ist seminar

Doctoral students of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Latvia will present their topics at the next seminar of the Doctoral School "Translational research in medicine":
• dr. Tatjana Zablocka - "Development of a new clinical genomic technology for melanoma risk stratification, prognosis assessment and personalized therapy";
• dr. Lauris Repša - "Strategies for the treatment of hip arthroplasty infection";
• dr. Māris Mežeckis - "The role of radiosurgery in the treatment of moderate and high-risk prostate cancer".
The seminar will be held online, via https://meet.google.com/!

Please send your application to participate in the seminar in time to our school's e-mail (doktoranturas.skola@gmail.com) or by sending a letter on the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Doktoranturas.skola/)

Every participant who applies to participate will receive an invitation link to meet.google.com in their e-mail on the day of the seminar (10 minutes before), where they can join the seminar online.

The seminar will take place on May 28th, 16:15 - 17:30.

Invites to the seminar of the Doctoral School "Translational research in medicine" "Preparation of a manuscript for publication in a scientific journal"

This time the seminar will be led by the Chairwoman of the Doctoral School "Translation research in medicine", University of Latvia, Faculty of Medicine, Assoc. prof. Ilva Daugule.
The seminar will be held online, via https://meet.google.com/!

Please send your application to participate in the seminar in time
to our school e-mail - doktoranturas.skola@gmail.com
or by sending a letter on the Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/Doktoranturas.skola/

Every participant who applies for participation on the day of the seminar (5-10 minutes before) will receive an invitation link to meet.google.com in their e-mail, where they can join the seminar online.

The seminar will take place on May 14th, 16:15 - 17:30.

Deadline for submission of abstracts to the UEG Week Amsterdam 2020 - extendedv to May 15!

The United European Gastroenterology Week will take place on October 10 - 14  in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

In response to the current unprecedented circumstances, the deadline for abstract submissions has been extended to 15 May!
New abstract topic: COVID-19 and GI!

UEG Week is the main platform for researchers around the world to present their latest discoveries.

UEG Week combines world class scientific research, invited lectures by leading minds in gastroenterology and an excellent Postgraduate Teaching Programme. Multidisciplinarity is a key focus of UEG Week, which covers topics of interest for the entire GI community.

More information about the conference: HERE.

A series of remote seminars are offered by the medical information resource ClinicalKey​

The Medical Information Resource ClinicalKey offers a series of remote seminars to demonstrate the information available in the resource about CoVid-19, as well as to practice the ClinicalKey tools.

Scheduled seminars and registration:
- Tuesday, April 21 at 13.00 
- Wednesday, April 22 at 15.00 
- Thursday, April 30 at 12.00 

After registration, each participant will receive a confirmation email and a seminar access link.

Duration of seminars - about 30 min.

Working language - English.

We invite you to actively submit your thesis to the Workshop of the Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group!

It is not yet known in what format this year's XXXIIInd International Workshop of the Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group will take place, scheduled for September in Glasgow, Scotland (was scheduled for September 10-12) .

However, the abstracts of the reports are accepted regardless of the form of the conference.

Deadline for submission of theses - May 10.

More information HERE.

7 project applications have been submitted to the LZP open competition from KPMI

On January 27, The Latvian Council of Science (LZP) announced an application for the 2020 open competition of Fundamental and applied research projects (FLPP), for which the available funding is 13,510,977 euros.

7 project applications in specific fields have been submitted for this competition from the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia.

Of the seven submitted project applications, 3 are in cooperation with the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center.

The aim of basic and applied research projects is to create new knowledge and technological insights in all fields of science. FLPP also promotes the involvement of students and doctoral candidates, the linking of research and the study environment, and the capacity building of scientific institutions and scientists. An important task is to link the results of the projects with the priority directions of science and to increase the socio-economic impact of the projects. A transparent system of reporting and financial use is also being developed, which will also allow assessing the sustainability of project results, while reducing administrative burdens and promoting inter-institutional cooperation.

Project implementation period is 3 years.

Wins 2nd place in RSU Student Scientific Conference 

Darija Logvinova, student of Faculty of Medicine of RSU won the second place with her work at the Annual Riga Stradiņš University (RSU) student scientific conference Health and Social Sciences, which took place on March 27 and 28, 2020.

The title of D.Loginova's presentation is "Symptoms and the time to diagnosis in patients with gastric and esophageal cancers".

The scientific leaders of D.Loginova's research are the leading researcher of LU KPMI Prof. Marcis Leja and researcher Dr. Evita Gašenko.

Over the past years, the conference has grown into the largest scientific event of its kind in the Baltics, and last year the conference's 17 thematic sections, guest lectures and practical workshops brought together more than 2,000 participants from Latvian and foreign universities.

LU signs a contract for the supply of volatile marker breath analyzers

On March 9, the University of Latvia signed a contract with the German technology company JLM Innovation GmbH to acquire a portable exppress-analyzer for the project "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening".
On March 23, the units was shipped and installed.

Validation of portable express-analyzer devices will be implemented in the near future, involving students of the Medical Faculty of the University of Latvia and resident physicians of Riga East University Hospital. Successful implementation of the activity will help to evaluate the repeatability and interchangeability of all devices to enable further clinical validation study of the project.

 

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) within the framework of the measure 1.2.1.2. "Support for the Development of Technology Transfer System", Project ID Nr. KC-PI-2017/75 "Volatile Marker Breath Analyzer for Gastric Cancer Screening"

The future work of the project is discussed

On March 23, a teleconference of participants of the project "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening" was held to discuss the follow-up of a project currently affected by the announced national emergency on the new coronavirus COVID-19 infection. Decisions were also taken during the teleconference to disseminate the results of the present conference at international conferences to be held in autumn 2020:

1) United European Gastroenterology Week 2020, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Abstracts can be submitted until April 24.

2) 33rd Workshop of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group, Glasgow, United Kingdom.

Abstracts can be submitted until May 10th.

The work was supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. LZP2018/29 "Volatile organic compounds for potential application in gastric cancer screening"

The first issue of the University Therapeutic Journal has come out

The first issue of the scientific and practical journal University Therapeutic Journal ("St. Petersburg") has been published.

The journal will combine the efforts of professionals from various disciplines to address the scientific and practical issues of modern health care in the field of Internal Diseases and related areas.

The journal covers a wide range of therapeutic specialties, including pediatrics, cardiology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, geriatrics and more. The multidisciplinary approach to compiling the scientific and practical section of the journal will not leave aside specialties such as surgery, endoscopy, microbiology and experimental medicine.

M. Leja, Director of the LU KPMI, also is on the editorial board of the magazine.

The contents of the first issue of the magazine are available HERE.

More information HERE.

March 24 - World Tuberculosis Day

Also in the days where media attention is focused on Covid-19 outbreak, TB is an always present threat.

World TB day, which is set every 24th march,  is thought to raise public attention to this disease.

Within the framework of the PITBUL project, in cooperation with the partner GNA Biosolutions GmbH, a German molecular diagnostic company, we also want to raise public awareness of the disease.

More information HERE.

    

The project leading to this application has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 768889

Highlights of the "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center" project in the first quarter of 2020

IT Center of Competence pursuant to Contract Nr. 1.2.1.1/18/A/003 of May 9, 2019 with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency  is implementing the project "Information and Communication Technology Competence Center".

In 2020, the project continues the implementation of all initially approved studies, prepares and submits a third payment request, and holds regular meetings of both the Scientific Leaders and the Council to review the progress and results of the implemented research. In turn, from the selection of new research projects announced in the summer of 2019, three new research projects have been approved by ABC Software Ltd. with SEB Bank support, WeAreDots Ltd. and LASMA Limited Liability Company with Altas IT Ltd. support, SIA Dati Group, as well as one new project application submitted for approval by SIA Captomatic.

“Computer Science Center” Ltd. and University of Latvia research Nr. 1.5 "Development of a Research Support Model to Improve Medical Research Data Collection Process" launched in May 2019. In the first quarter of 2020, the implementation of two industrial research activities - “Development of a Research Support Model” and “Development of a Technology Support Concept for a Research Support Model” - will continue.

The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund Operational Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.2.1. Specific objective 1.2.1.1 of the Specific objective "Increase private sector investment in R&D". the measure "Support for the development of new products and technologies within centers of competence".

More information read HERE.

International Scientific Medical Conference of the University of Latvia postponed to autumn

In view of the current epidemiological situation in the world, the management of the University of Latvia and the Conference Organizing Committee, in consultation with the SPKC (Center for Disease Prevention and Control), have decided to postpone the International Scientific Medical Conference to October of this year.

The conference organizers will keep informed potential participants and interested parties about the news and current events.

Workshop on "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states" is canceled

In view of the rapid spread of COVID-19 infection, and in order to reduce the risk of infection with it workshop organizers, participants and guests, a decision was made to cancel the March 19 workshop "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states" (was organized within the framework of the 78th International Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia).

The workshop may be postponed to the end of the summer, but the date is still to be determined. Organizers of the workshop will keep informed potential articipants.

The decision is made because the government of Latvia has declared a state of emergency to limit the spread of COVID-19 virus.

On significant restrictions in relation to COVID-19

In order to minimize the risks of COVID-19 infection for staff, students, guests and visitors of the University of Latvia, the on-site study process is discontinued between March 13 and April 14.

During the period 13.03.2020. until 4.14.2020.LU implements the following epidemiological safety measures to limit the spread of COVID 19:

* to discontinue the implementation of face-to-face lectures, classes, seminars and other forms of face-to-face, continuing education and interest education
* stop organizing conferences and any other face-to-face events (with more than 100 participants) in the LU
* to organize the study process remotely using LU e-learning environment, including video etc. possible formats
* LU core departments, including scientific institutes and LU administration, should work remotely as far as possible
* LU students are allowed access to LU premises (libraries) upon presentation of a valid LU student card

LU staff, including students, are strongly encouraged to follow the recommendations of the Center for Disease Prevention and Control (https://spkc.gov.lv/en/aktualitates/get/nid/757), especially when returning from business trips or vacation trips.

The decision is made because the Latvian government has declared a state of emergency to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

We encourage you to follow the LU management orders, instructions, action recommendations regarding information on security measures at the LU homepage.

A video produced jointly by H2020 project SNIFFPHONE partners has been published online 

SNIFFPHONE (Horizon 2020 Framework Program) project carried out by an international consortium of scientific institutions and companies (also a member was LU KPMI) - "Smart Phone for Disease Detection from Exhaled Breath", in which the clinical work was organized and conducted by researchers of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine was carried out 15.02.2015. – 15.08.2018.

The SNIFFPHONE project has developed a cellular-compatible sensor respiratory analyzer for detecting diseases - a portable "electronic nose" capable of accurately identifying gastric cancer after a patient's exhalation. The device has a very wide potential application and can be transferred to other disease detection and monitoring.

Sniffphone developers are engineers and scientists from Israel, Germany, Ireland, Austria and Finland.

The University of Latvia has been a major clinical partner in this major project to develop new disease screening techniques using artificial nose technology.
LU KPMI project implemented device testing in clinical settings, analytics, patient involvement, sensor data analysis.

The project was led by professor Hossam Haick from the Israeli Technion Institute.
The head of the clinical team of the project is M.Leja, Director of the LU KPMI.

The SNIFFPHONE project has also received the European Commission Innovation Award in the Innovative Project category. The award was presented on November 21, 2018 in Lisbon, Portugal, at the European Forum on Electronic Components and Systems.

Researchers of the Institute are continuing their research in this area in the framework of several other projects.

The video produced jointly by the SNIFFPHONE project partners is available HERE.

  

The SNIFFPHONE project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement no. 644031

Among the authors of an article published in the International Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology - leading researcher of the LU KPMI

On February 13 this year, the journal "Systematic review: gastric microbiota in health and disease" was published in the journal "Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics".

Among the authors of the article is M.Leja, Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine.

The article is available in the open-access section of the Wiley Online Library, one of the largest and most authoritative collections of online journals, books, and research resources that encompass life, health, social, and physical sciences.

A summary of the article is available HERE.

Announced application deadlines for the EHMSG XXXIIInd International Workshop

XXXIIInd International Workshop of the Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group will take place on September 10 - 12, 2020 in Glasgow, United Kingdom.

Please note the following important dates:

Deadline for Abstract Submission: May 10, 2020
Deadline for Early Bird Registration: July 13, 2020
Deadline Regular Fee: August 16, 2020

More information available HERE.

Application deadline extended to a seminar on actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states 

We kindly invite experts and representatives of research biobanks to attend an international workshop “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states” which will take place on March 19, 2020 at the University of Latvia. The aim of the workshop is to exchange experience and discuss actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states, as well as to present the results of the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers”, this project is funded by the Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-01710. The co-organizer of the workshop is BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure – European Research Infrastructure Consortium).  

All participants are welcome to register to the workshop via email kpmi@lu.lv by March 5, 2020.

Registration is free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The preliminary programme of the workshop you can find HERE.

The workshop will be part of the annual 78th Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia. 

The work was supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

In Moscow gives a presentation on the best cancer prevention strategy in Europe

In Moscow, Russia, February 27 - 28 the 46th SCIENTIFIC SESSION: "GENETICS IN GASTROENTEROLOGY: POSSIBILITIES AND PERSPECTIVES", organized by the Central Institute for Research on Gastroenterology (ЦНИИГ) took place.

LU KPMI Director M. Leja gave two lectures at the conference on topics of prevention of inherited gastrointestinal tumors and gastric cancer.

In a lecture on stomach cancer, M.Leja talked about:
- GISTAR study in Latvia
- Volatile marker diagnostic projects to detect gastric cancer

Further possibilities for cooperation with leading Russian gastroenterology experts were discussed, incl. opportunities to submit joint projects.

LU Library invites to seminars on scientific publishing

The Library of the University of Latvia invites LU academic, research, and doctoral students to participate in workshops on scientific publishing, retrieval of various scholarly indicators from citation databases (Web of Science, Scopus), and reference management tools (Mendeley, EndNote Online).

More about the topics here.
 
The seminars will take place at the Science House of the University of Latvia, Room 209, Jelgavas Street 3 (the room is equipped with computers). Seats are limited!

You are welcome to apply:

March 4,  16.30-18.00 Introduction to the scientific publication process.
APPLY FOR

March 11, 16.30-18.30 "How to use the databases of Web of Science and Scopus for study and research work?".
APPLY FOR

March 18, 16.30-18.30 Reference Tools: A Handy Solution for Writing, Quoting, and Preparing References.
APPLY FOR

The creation of a Unified Cancer Centre is under discussion in Brussels

The first joint meeting of the EC Cancer Mission Council and the Assembly of this mission took place in Brussels, 14 February, to discuss actions to be taken in the strategic planning documents.

Members of the Assembly, leaders and members of many of the leading European organizations in the field of oncology, had prepared a number of recommendations and additions to the documents produced by the Mission Council.

Activities include many potential issues for Latvia, such as the establishment and accreditation of a national Unified Cancer Center (currently one of the six EU countries where such accreditation does not exist), ensuring the availability of a cancer screening system that meets European quality criteria, etc.

As an unprecedented negative example of the EU, all participants of the meeting were publicly referred to the Latvian-Estonian alcohol tax fight.

Latvia joins network of European infrastructure for translational medicine

From 11 to 12 February, the annual meeting of the EATRIS European infrastructure for translational medicine Course was held in Lisbon, Portugal.

Since the beginning of 2020, Latvia has joined the network as an associate member.

During these two days, was exchange best practices and defined together the role that EATRIS will play in the development of Personalised Medicine. Also were discused how to fully exploit the capacities of the Infrastructure to serve the needs of the patient community and how to develop technologies that will support the implementation of patient-targeted interventions.

In the picture (from left): Latvian delegation - Zaiga Nora-Krūkle, Ilmārs Stonāns, Maija Dambrova, Mārcis Leja

At the conference in St. Petersburg reports on the epidemiology of stomach cancer and screening options

On February 6, a scientific-practical conference on the different aspects of gastric cancer "Stomach Cancer - A to Z" was held at Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University. The conference was attended by leading oncologists and management from St. Petersburg University, and practitioners from hospitals and outpatient clinics in the region.

The keynote presentation of the conference on the epidemiology and screening capabilities of gastric cancer was given by director of KPMI, professor M.Leja. 

In his lecture, he focused on both the GISTAR project implemented by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the diagnostic capabilities of volatile markers, including those currently underway in the H2020 VOGAS project.

  

In the picture: M.Leja with the main organizer of the conference, oncology surgeon, Professor Alexander Zakarenko

VOGAS project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824986 

The GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions".

Brussels opens consultation on Europe cancer plan

On February 4, during the World Cancer Day in Brussels, the European Commissioner for Health formally opened a public consultation on Europe's beating cancer plan in the presence of the EC President.

Details can be found HERE. 

A working meeting for the VOGAS project takes place in Austria

The annual H2020 VOGAS project working meeting takes place in See, Austria, January 26 - 31. During the meeting project progress and future project plans are discussed.

From KPMI the meeting is represented by Director of the institute prof. Mārcis Leja and PhD student Linda Mežmale.

VOGAS project - "Screening of Gastric Cancer via Breath volatile organic compunds by Hybrid Sensing Approach".

The aim of the VOGAS H2020 project is to clarify the sources of volatile markers, to perform the clinical approbation of the latest generation stationary breath analyzer for early diagnosis of cancer. Using the latest generation of stationary breath analyzers to detect volatile markers, take part in an international stomach cancer screening program to improve this non-invasive method of for diagnosis of cancer.

 

The project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824986 

Invites to a seminar on actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states as part of the annual Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia

We kindly invite experts and representatives of research biobanks to attend an international workshop “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in the Baltic states” which will take place on March 19, 2020 at the University of Latvia. The aim of the workshop is to exchange experience and discuss actual ethical and social problems of research biobank governance in the Baltic states, as well as to present the results of the project “Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers”, this project is funded by the Latvian Council of Science, project No. lzp-2018/2-01710. The co-organizer of the workshop is BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure – European Research Infrastructure Consortium).  

All participants are welcome to register to the workshop via email kpmi@lu.lv by March 1, 2020. Registration is free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The preliminary programme of the workshop you can find HERE.

The workshop will be part of the annual 78th Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia. You are also kindly invited to submit an abstract and to participate in the conference on March 20, 2020.

https://www.mf.lu.lv/petnieciba/konferences/international-scientific-conference-on-medicine/

The work was supported by FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) Programm in Latvia, project nr. lzp-2018/2-0171 "Ethically and socially responsible governance of research biobanks in Latvia: analysis of opinions of public, donors and researchers"

The H2020 project PERSIST is launched with the first consortium meeting at Gradiant headquarters

On January 24, Vigo (Spain)  an international meeting of PERSIST project partners was hosted by the project manager - the Spanish ICT technology center Gradiant in its headquarters. The meeting, which was attended by 40 experts from Europe and Turkey, set out the main aims of the research to learn about the problems commonly encountered by patients who have survived breast and colorectal cancer.
 
This H2020 project will focus on creating an innovative platform to improve care for cancer survivors.
 
All partners came together at the Kick-off Meeting, in order to turn this ambitious project into reality. They all shared their knowledge, experience and plans for the future development of the project. The meeting began with an introduction to the Project PERSIST and active participation from the side of all present stakeholders. The consortium meeting then continued with specific and aspect-oriented presentations and debates. All partners clearly showed their designated role in the project and in what way they can best contribute to it.
 
The variety of experts gathered at the Kick-off Meeting can be perceived as great contribution to all aspects of PERSIST and can add value to the project itself. During the first year, the project will be mainly focused on data gathering, analysis and research. Therefore, ideas and suggestions were actively exchanged throughout the whole consortium meeting. It was made clear that every little detail of the project will be analysed, in order to reach maximum efficiency and be as productive as possible for the benefit of the cancer survivor patients and clinicians.
 
At the closing day of the Kick-off Meeting, all partners on the project parted with clear vision, mission and determination about the future of the project PERSIST. In today’s digital world, the patients are going to rely more and more on digital solutions, in order to overcome the difficulties connected with their treatment. However, the free access to Internet and data poses challenges, which is why our common initiative comes in the right moment, as it provides safe and secure information, coordinated by patients, clinicians and experts.
 
Within the framework of the PERSIST project, Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia will provide clinical research.
 
More information about the meeting HERE.

The official project information is available HERE.

  

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 87540

New EU Beating Cancer Plan outlined in Brussels Oncology Meeting

A joint meeting of the "Horizon 2020" Programme Committee and Steering Group on Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Management of Non-Communicable Diseases is taking place today in the European Commission building in Brussels. During the session was analyzed the survey of resources invested in cancer research by EU Member States, outlined the new EU Beating Cancer Plan and gaved a brief overview of the activities of the EU Cancer Mission. At the meeting Latvia is represented by the Ministry of Health and Education, the National Agency for Education and Development, as well as members of the Program Committee, including director of KPMI M.Leja. 

Invites to apply for train the trainer program  in research ethics and academic integrity

As a consortium partner of H2020 VIRT2UE project providing a methodologically sound and didactically innovative train the trainer program for ethics and research integrity trainers, the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, University of Latvia is organizing the regional training. The face-to-face training will take place on June15-16 and August 28, 2020 (2+1 days) in Riga, University of Latvia.  
Using a virtue ethics approach to ethics and research integrity, the program aims to foster the internalization of the principles of European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity (ECoC), and thus to facilitate the cultivation of scientific virtues among trainers and researchers. 
The program consists of an online module and three days of face to face training. Further information on its content and structure can be found in a brochure on the Embassy of Good Science available under www.embassy.science/training.  
You can register for the train the trainer programme by sending a filled registration form to the e-mail kpmi@lu.lv by April 1, 2020. 

   

The work was supported by  funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 787580

Within the framework of the H2020 project learns a method for faster, more accessible and easier diagnosis of tuberculosis and other diseases

January 14 - 16, KPMI researchers Ilva Pole, Reinis Vangravs and Ģirts Šķenders visited Munich to learn the ultra-fast polymerase chain reaction method for faster, more accessible and easier diagnosis of tuberculosis and potentially other diseases. The basic principles of the method have been developed at the partner GNA Biosolutions Laboratory, within the framework of Horizon 2020 project "Point-of-Care implementation of TB testing with ultrafast laser PCR" (PITBUL). The task of the Latvian researchers in this project is to improve the principles of clinical specimen preparation for further use in the ultrafast polymerase chain reaction method.

  

The project leading to this application has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 768889

9,000 respondents already in GISTAR study!

We are pleased to announce that the total number of respondents included in GISTAR, the largest LU KPMI study, has already reached 9,000!

In its turn, Jekabpils Regional Center has already included 689 respondents.

It is planned to continue the research in Jekabpils till the end of this year.

The GISTAR study in Latvia has been going on for six years.

  

The GISTAR study is partly funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 2nd phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention" and FLPP (Fundamental and Applied Research Projects) within the framework of the Latvian Program, project no. lzp-2018 / 1-0135 "Study on the implementation of a set of measures to prevent gastric cancer mortality by eradicating H.pylori infection and timely detection of gastric pre-cancer conditions".

One of the initiators of the Million Microbiome of Human Project (MMHP) - LU KPMI

January 6-8, 2020, Shenzhen, China.  The 1st Symposium on Million Microbiome of Human Project (MMHP) took place in the China National GeneBank. This is an ambitious and unique project aiming to draw human microbial maps of different races, ages, genders and health conditions based on at least 1 milj. metagenome analysis.
Involvement of research institutions from all over the world is anticipated. Latvia has been among the initiators of the project. The Director of the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre Jānis Kloviņš and the Director of Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine Mārcis Leja were representing our country in the conference. They were presenting the research performed in this field in Latvia so far.
MMHP is supported by the internationally leading experts in molecular biology – the BGI Company. Their daughter company MGI is also established in Latvia.

PERSIST : AI and Big Data available to healthcare 

Lead by Gradiant, Spanish ICT technology center in collaboration with the University of Latvia and eleven other partners, PERSIST is starting in January 2020. 

The PERSIST project ("Patients-centered SurvivorShip care plan after Cancer treatments based on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence technologies") will combine the expertise of its partners to develop an innovative platform that will support the decision-making of medical doctors to improve the care of cancer survivors.

13 entities from 10 countries participate in this international research based on Artificial Intelligence and Big Data for the health industry.

The consortium, with partners from Spain, Italy, Austria, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Latvia, Switzerland, Portugal, Belgium and Turkey, is funded by the European Union with more than 5 million euros, under the Horizon 2020 program. 

Within the framework of the PERSIST project, Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia will provide clinical research.

More information about the PERSIST project see HERE.

   

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 875406

Visits China National Gene Bank

Marcis Leja, Director of KPMI, together with Janis Klovins, Director of the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center / BBMRI Latvian Organization, visits to the CNGB - the China National Gene Bank.

08.01.2020. Shenzhen (China). Wang Jian, the president and founder of BGI, demonstrates sequencing automation capabilities at China's National Biobank.