Warm Season's Greetings and a Happy New Year from the UL ICPM!

UL ICPM takes part in the networking event of the Riga Stradiņš University project

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On December 13, the deputy director of the UL ICPM Ilmārs Stonāns represented the institute in the university – industry brokerage event of the Riga Stradiņš University project “Consolidating the capacities of EATRIS-ERIC for Personalised Medicine (EATRIS-PLUS)” where the industry members got to know more on the opportunities to integrate research of personalized medicine. Within the framework of the event, I. Stonāns presented the institute's experience so far in cooperation with academic and industry partners, as well as outlined the opportunities for future cooperation. During the meeting, the growing role of the state in ensuring effective cooperation between academic and industrial partners in solving the tasks of personalized medicine was recognized.

The project aims to support the long-term sustainability (LTS) of EATRIS by delivering innovative scientific tools to the research community, strengthening the infrastructure’s financial model and reinforcing EATRIS leadership in the European Research Area (ERA), particularly in the field of Personalised Medicine (PM) research and development. The event gathered representatives of the EATRIS, the Scientific Director Dr. Toni Andreu, and Scientific & SME Outreach Manager Sara Zullino, as well as the representatives of RSU Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Latvian Alliance of Rare Diseases, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre as well as RSU Institute of Oncology. The presentations were followed by a round-table discussion on how industry can integrate research of personalized medicine and visitations to the RSU Institute of Microbiology and Virology, RSU Institute for Occupational Safety and Environmental Health and RSU Laboratory of Hygiene and Occupational Diseases.

EATRIS-Plus will help pooling and exploiting the translational academic capacities of the infrastructure in omics technologies to enable researchers to better address the scientific and societal challenges of Personalised Medicine. A key output of the project will be the piloting and delivery of a multi-omic toolbox, that will include SOPs, guidelines for best practices, reference materials, quality parameters, analysis tools, criteria for establishing reference values, and will provide access to a repository of multi-omic data.  Additionally, the coordination office and 13 existing national nodes of the infrastructure will participate in implementing joint outreach, training, industry engagement and international collaboration activities to further build national capacity, increase users’ trust and strengthen EATRIS and the ERA global scientific leadership in the areas of translational research and Personalised Medicine.

The project is implemented by 19 European partnering organisations and is set to be concluded by the end of 2023. More about the project: https://www.rsu.lv/en/project/consolidating-capacities-eatris-eric-personalised-medicine-eatris-plus

A new scientific paper on serological biomarker diagnostic value of autoimmune gastritis has been published in ‘Diagnostics’

© Photo: Book publishing photo created by Racool_studio - www.freepik.com

A new scientific paper on serological biomarker (anti-parietal cell antibodies and anti-intrinsic factor antibodies) value in non invasive diagnostics of autoimmune gastritis has been published in the Open Access Journal from MDPI ‘Diagnostics’:

The diagnostic value of anti-parietal cell and intrinsic factor antibodies, pepsinogens, and gastrin-17 in corpus restricted atrophic gastritis

The study suggests that the best combination of non-invasive biomarkers for detecting autoimmune gastritis is the combination of pepsinogen I/II ratio and anti- parietal cell antibodies. Autoimmune gastritis is localized in corpus part and is linked to increased gastric cancer risk.

The authors of the publication are the Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital’s internist, immunologist Petra Kriķe, the article was prepared under the guidance of UL professor, gastroenterologist, UL ICPM director Mārcis Leja, among the authors are UL ICPM researchers Inese Poļaka, Daiga Šantare, Lilian Tzivian, as well as GASTRO representatives Ilze ķikuste, Ivars Tolmanis, Aigars Vanags, and Sergej Isajevs from the Academic Histology Laboratory, Inta Liepniece-Karele from the Rīga Stradiņš University Department of Pathology, Dace Rudzīte from Riga East Clinical University Hospital, together with employees of the National Cancer Institute (USA) Minkyo Song, M. Constanza Camargo and Gary L Norman and Zakera Shums from the USA laboratory diagnostics company ‘Werfen’.

The study was conducted using the material collected by the Digestive Diseases Center GASTRO and developed in cooperation with the Digestive Diseases Center GASTRO, Academic Histology Laboratory, laboratory examinations were performed with the support of the diagnostic companies ‘Werfen’ (USA) and ‘Biohit’ (Finland).

The article is openly accessible on ‘Diagnostics’: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/12/11/2784

PERSIST webinar on the technical solutions

Project PERSIST is announcing a public final technical webinar online on the 1st of December at 15.00 – 16:00 CET. The PERSIST H2020 consortium will represent its approach and solution to support cancer survivors and how AI and digital decision support system can contribute to more personalized and patient-centered care.

During the webinar the participants will be able to observe:

•          Demonstration of the mHelath app of PERSIST, including questionnaire, CTCs, diary recording functionality and extraction of signs of depression and symptoms from diaries;

•          Demonstration of the disease centric discourse functionality and alert system;

•          Value of the collected data and trajectories for the care plans;

•          Clinical Decision Support System, mClinician app.

The webinar will take place on MS Teams: https://bit.ly/3Xn7q23

In order to participate, we kindly ask you to register: https://forms.gle/HdJ8UHyhMPwgcpfR7

Read more on: https://projectpersist.com 

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

Kick-off meeting of the new European project EUROHELICAN

Publicity photo: EUROHELICAN working group meeting in Ljubljana, Slovenia

From november 17 to 18, in Ljubljana, Slovenia, the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) organized the “Kick-off” meeting of the new European project EUROHELICAN – Accelerating gastric cancer reduction in Europe through Helicobacter pylori eradication. The general objective of the EUROHELICAN project is to assess the feasibility of population-based Helicobacter pylori test- and treat strategy for gastric cancer prevention in Europe. In the EUROHELICAN project, co-financed by the European Union, beside the NIJZ, participate the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, Community Healthcare Center dr. Adolf Drolc Maribor, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization, and Nantes University Hospital. The project will last from 1 November 2022 to 30 April 2025. 

Gastric cancer, with more than 1 million new cases and almost 800,000 deaths worldwide in 2020, is the fifth most frequently diagnosed cancer type and the fourth most common cause of cancer death worldwide. In Europe, gastric cancer is still an important public health issue, with the regions of Central and Eastern Europe having the highest gastric cancer incidence worldwide, second to Eastern Asia. In Europe, gastric cancer has a poor prognosis with 5-year relative survival rate between 19-30 %. Despite the recent therapeutic progress, the 5-year overall survival has not been significantly improved for the last decades in most of the European countries.

Infection with the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) means a high risk of developing stomach cancer. Given its absolute burden and the significant prevalence of treatable H. pylori infection worldwide, the best way to reduce gastric cancer mortality is through preventive action. Therefore, pilot population testing and treatment of H. pylori is proposed as a strategy for the prevention of stomach cancer within the framework of the EUROHELICAN project, which would significantly prevent the loss of lives or the quality of life due to this malignant disease.

By treating the infection, we would prevent and eliminate other gastroenterological problems: stomach and duodenal ulcer, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), dyspepsia (feeling of fullness, bloating, burning pain, fainting, nausea), iron deficiency anemia, MALT lymphoma, vitamin deficiency B12, autoimmune disease idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

The results from this project will aide policy makers incorporate the population-based H. pylori test- and treat strategy into their healthcare priorities for gastric cancer prevention while balancing its effectiveness, feasibility and acceptability with long-term potential adverse effects.

At the kickoff meeting, all project partners spoke constructively about the project's main goals, work packages, individual activities, and precisely determined the cooperation procedures for the successful implementation of the project.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

On 15th November, the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine is celebrating the 6th anniversary!

We are sending the warmest greetings to the colleagues of the institute, the University of Latvia and our partners!

UL ICPM researchers start work on the project FAMILY, supported by the Horizon programme

On November 2- 4, researchers Signe Mežinska and Ivars Neiders of the UL ICPM represented the UL in the kick-off meeting of the FAMILY project. The meeting took place in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Within the five years of project implementation, the aim of the FAMILY Consortium is to improve the life of mentally-ill persons with novel prediction models that are based on better understanding the mechanisms of intergenerational transmission of mental illness and resilience. The project involves 16 partner institutions including the leading European neuroscience and genetics research centers.

Photo: from personal archive

The leading researcher of the UL ICPM Signe Mežinska will lead one of the project’s work packages which aims to analyze the ethical and social problems related to risk of inheriting mental illness and development of such risks’ prediction models. One of the project tasks is also to promote the public's understanding of mental illness inherited in family, as well as to communicate the results of the scientific research to patients, their families and mental health care professionals.

More information can be found on the project’s website: https://family-project.eu/

#HorizonEU #FAMILY_EU

This project has received funding from the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No 101057529

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The director of the UL ICPM participates in the conclusion of the worldwide scientific initiative in Venice

The final face-to-face meeting of the RE.GA.IN (Real-world Gastris Initiative) project takes place from November 7 to 10 in Venice, Italy.

The scientific initiative aims to gather the interdisciplinary knowledge on gastritis and gastritis-related gastric malignancies. From May to November 2022, 35 leading international experts in the field from all continents have been involved in this initiative, including the director of UL ICPM Mārcis Leja. In this period of time, the experts have had multiple meetings in virtual mode for the critical evaluation of the available scientific evidence and for the necessary insights. The meeting in Venice concludes the initiative by summarizing the conclusions of these meetings.

 

Photos: from personal archive. The organizer of the initiative, professor Massimo Rugge

The cancer epidemiologist Maria Constanza Camargo, representing the National Cancer Institute (USA), reported the role of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the pathogenesis of gastritis and gastic cancer. The reserach has been developed with Candidate of Sciences, chemoterapist Evita Gašenko (Latvia).

Photos: from personal archive. NCI representative, cancer epidemiologist Maria Constanza Camargo

GISTAR study presented at an informative seminar to general practicioners

On October 28, an informative seminar was held for general practitioners in Liepāja and South Kurzeme. It was organized by the Environment, Health and Public Participation Department of the Liepāja City Municipality Administration.

As part of the event, the director of the UL ICPM, gastroenterologist and UL professor Mārcis Leja gave a lecture on different approaches to reducing stomach cancer mortality and the European perspective on these issues. In addition to these aspects, the professor informed the general practitioners about the GISTAR study, which is currently taking place in Liepāja, and invited them to get involved in its implementation by informing their patients about the opportunities to take part in the study.

Photos: from personal archive

Liepāja Sports Health Center's offer was presented by Artis Lagzdiņš, the manager of the LOC Olympic Centre. Anita Zolmane, head of the Kurzeme branch of the National Health Service, presented the current affairs of the NHS.

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project ‘Practical Studies’, 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 ‘Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening’.

VOGAS project partners share their thoughts on the main challenges

The aim of the VOGAS project has been to carry out the clinical approbation of the latest generation stationary breath analyzer for the early diagnosis of cancer and to clarify the sources of volatile markers. Using the latest generation stationary breath analyzer for determination of volatile markers, the project participants performed breath analyzes in clinical settings, evaluating the device’s usability and accuracy, as well as perfecting this non-invasive cancer detection method.

VOGAS partners share their thoughts on the main challenges faced during the last 3 years. From unforeseen challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine to predicted risks as technical and logistical issues – the interviews are available on the project website www.vogas.eu

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

Project PERSIST - a special event has been held and partners meet to discuss the progress of the final phase of the clinical trial

From October 19 to 23, the partners of the project PERSIST ("Patients-centered SurvivorShip care plan after Cancer treatments based on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence technologies") met in Maribor, Slovenia. The UL ICPM was represented by researcher Dina Bēma and assistant scientific manager of the project Linda Tupiņa. During the meeting, the partners shared their experience and knowledge and discussed the progress of the final phase of the clinical trial and the tasks to be performed.

On October 13, as part of Cancer Awareness Month, a special event took place in the European Parliament building in person and online - "PERSISTent to fight cancer, whatever I.T. takes”.

The event’s participants got to know more on the the impact of PERSIST for patients, medical specialists and caregivers, what specific types of data PERSIST collects with the help of mHealth and mClinician apps used in the project and how these can increase the Quality-of-Life of Cancer Survivors, and the Cancer Survivorship – AI for Well-being (CS_AIW) Cluster was also presented. After that, a panel on Reflections on the digitalization in Europe, in light of the Cancer awareness month took place.

The recording of the event is available online.

The project PERSIST aims to show the potential of big data technology for making fundamental changes in care delivery for cancer survivors through security of health data, Artificial intelligence and Big Data, improved health care and new scientific research. The study is international and its clinical part with the inclusion of patients in Latvia, Belgium, Slovenia and Spain.

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

 

As part of the project proposed by the UL ICPM, European experts are working on raising quality of cancer care in Latvia

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On October 17 and 18, representatives of the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) met at the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital to conduct an expertise and provide recommendations for Latvia's progress towards a comprehensive cancer center and a comprehensive cancer care network - that would facilitate equal access to healthcare for cancer patients in Latvia.

The meeting took place within the framework of the project "Improving cancer care coordination and screening in Latvia and Slovakia, ICCCS" that is financed by the European Commission's (EC) Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM). In Latvia, the project implementation was initiated by UL ICPM.

As the project experts, representatives of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) and the ERASMUS University Medical Center (EMC) are involved.

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The project aims to contribute to the reduction of cancer mortality by improving cancer registration in the population, establishing and achieving the accreditation of a comprehensive cancer care and research infrastructure / networks, as well as improving breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening programs thus providing equally high-quality and equally accessible cancer care for all patients throughout Latvia.

"In recent years, the fight against cancer has been a priority of the entire European Union, and this year, the Latvian government also approved the plan for the improvement of healthcare services in the field of oncology for 2022-2024. It foresees a series of improvements that will require national funding, and currently we have the highest level of experts to help us," the importance of the project is characterized by Mārcis Leja, the former expert of the European Commission’s Cancer Mission, Professor at the University of Latvia and the director of UL ICPM.

"Improving cancer registration in Latvia is one of the top priorities – as otherwise we cannot know what exact measures should be taken for further cancer care improvements. It also concerns the cancer screening. I am pleased that these matters can be dealt with the help from institutions with the highest of competence in monitoring and collecting data all over the world,” M. Leja adds.

Professor Simon Oberst and Professor Mef Nilbert attended the face-to-face visit, and other experts from OECI and IARC participated remotely.

On October 17, the experts met with representatives of the board and management of the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital discussing the current achievements and emphasizing the issues for further resolving. On the second day of the visit, several seminars with discussions were held - on molecular diagnosis of tumors, clinical research in oncology, radiation therapy, as well as on palliative and hospice care of oncological patients.

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Post-doctorate of the UL ICPM has taken part in mobility to Germany

Photo: from personal archive

From September 19 to October 15, the leading researcher at KPMI Manohar Prasad Bhandari took part in mobility at JLM Innovation GmbH (https://www.jlm-innovation.de/). His secondment at JLM Innovation GmbH was implemented within the framework of his postdoctoral research project "Study of relation between gastric microbiota and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the early detection of gastric cancer". First part of the mobility from September 19 to October 1 was carried out remotely. From October 2 to October 15, the researcher worked on site in Tübingen, Germany.

JLM Innovation is a research-based technology company that develops hardware and software for data acquisition as well as data analysis tools in the field of chemical gas sensors. It has been part of many international projects in the field of chemical sensing and electronic noses. The expertise of JLM Innovation with specialists from medical and biochemical fields have yielded important results and technology for the advancement of medical research. JLM Innovation has been cooperating with KPMI within different EU-funded projects including H2020 VOGAS project that aims at developing a non-invasive gastric cancer screening tool by detecting characteristic panels of VOCs. The postdoctoral project is in synergy with the VOGAS project and thus allowing a close cooperation with VOGAS partners including JLM Innovation.

During the mobility, the leading researcher gained knowledge in the data analysis techniques related to VOGAS hybrid eNose sensor readings under the supervision of experts Dr. Marta Padilla (research director at JLM) and Dr. Jan Mitrovics (CEO, JLM). The eNose instrument is being used for the collection and analysis of exhaled breath samples from gastric cancer patients in relation to WP3 “Impact of Helicobacter pylori on eNose readings” of the postdoctoral project.

Photo: from personal archive

Using the Python programming codes developed by JLM Innovation, the leading researcher learned the required steps of sensors data analysis, including pre-processing, filtering, down-sampling, and decreasing the correlation with environmental variables. The acquired knowledge of data analysis will be applied to analyse the eNose data obtained from WP3 of the project resulting in a research article. For this, the impact of H. pylori, dietary, and other confounding factors on eNose sensor readings will be considered. This also includes statistical data analysis in H. pylori positive and negative groups, taken that this is potent bacteria that change the overall environment of the stomach. 

Manohar Prasad Bhandari’s postdoctoral project goal is to investigate the effects of volatile compounds, microbial changes, and exhaled markers on gastric microbiome for an early diagnosis of gastric cancer.

Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.1.1. Specific support objective “Increase the research and innovation capacity of Latvian scientific institutions and the ability to attract external funding by investing in human resources and infrastructure” 1.1.1.2. ERDF project No. of the measure “Support for postdoctoral research” 1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/495 "Study of the relation between gastric microbiota and VOCs for the early detection of gastric cancer"

In Vienna, a meeting of the International Healthy Stomach Initiative took place

In the first half of October, after a break of several years, a meeting of the International Healthy Stomach Initiative took place in Vienna, Austria. The goal of this initiative, founded by international medical professionals, is to raise awareness of other health professionals and the wider public to stomach health and the prevention of related illnesses. More information about the International Healthy Stomach Initiative is available on its website http://www.hsinitiative.org/

During the meeting, the UL ICPM was represented by its director Mārcis Leja. Those present got to find out about the process of adopting the latest European guidelines, and representatives of Slovenia announced the signing of an agreement with the European Commission, that starts the implementation of a new project - EUROHELICAN. It aims to develop guidelines and recommendations to help create, improve and implement a population-based H.pylori screening and treatment program in Europe. Along with partners - National Institute of Public Health of Slovenia, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC, France)and Nantes University Hospital Center (France) – the project will be implemented also by the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine.

The project will be implemented with the support from the EU4Health propgram. 

Photo: from personal archive

Results of the HYCOR project were presented at the UEGWEEK 2022

From October 8 to 11, the senior laboratory technician of the HYCOR project and resident doctor Linda Anarkulova took part in the United European Gastroenterology Week 2022 – UEGWEEK 2022 in Vienna, Austria. For taking part in the event, she had received the UEG National Scholar Award. This award is given to the promising investigators at a junior level by awarding the highest scoring abstracts pre country.

At the congress, L. Anarkulova presented the poster presentation "Application of modular multi-sensor VOC analyzer for non-invasive detection of colorectal cancer" that is based in the project HYCOR results. The poster presentation was on the screening of colorectal cancer with a breath analysis, based on the detection of volatile organic compounds in the breath using a sensor breath analyzer. The aim of the study was to differentiate between colorectal cancer patients and individuals without cancer. Participants in these two groups – colorectal cancer patients and a control group - performed a breath test in a sensor breath analyzer. The obtained results showed that the sensor breath analyzer is able to distinguish between colorectal cancer patients and control group study participants. The study will be continued to build and evaluate more specific detection models in larger patient groups.

Photo: Linda Anarkulova. From personal archive.

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project ‘Practical Studies’, 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 ‘Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening’.

The final meeting of partners of the VOGAS project has taken place in Georgia

From September 27 to 30, the final consortium meeting of the VOGAS project took place in Georgia. The meeting gathered project partners from Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Uppsala (Sweden), Ulm (Germany), Innsbruck (Austria), Pamplona (Colombia) and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (Chile) universities as well as representatives of San Ignacio University Hospital (University Hospital San Ignacio, Colombia), JLM Innovation (Germany), A.C. Camargo Cancer Center (Brazil), National Cancer Institute MPH of Ukraine, VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, the National Cancer Institute (USA), as well as the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine.

In course of its implementation, the aim of the VOGAS project has been to carry out the clinical approbation of the latest generation stationary breath analyzer for the early diagnosis of cancer and to clarify the sources of volatile markers. Using the latest generation stationary breath analyzer for determination of volatile markers, the project participants performed breath analyzes in clinical settings, evaluating the device's usability and accuracy, as well as perfecting this non-invasive cancer detection method.

During the meeting, partners discussed the accomplishments during the course of the project implementation period, mainly focusing on operation of the equipment and its improvement and application possibilities, as well as the results of the clinical study and the discovered biomarkers. Several publications are currently being developed on the main results.

With this meeting, the VOGAS project has officially been concluded, however, the established cooperation continues. The partners met with the President of the Georgian Society of Clinical Oncology Rema Gvamichava and discussed possible cooperation in future projects involving the general public, clinics and organizations involved in cancer screening. Cooperation between other partners of the VOGAS project will also continue, implementing other Horizon Europe projects.

Photo: from personal archive

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

On October 13, UL ICPM and PERSIST partners are inviting to a hybrid event

On October 13, 2022, UL ICPM and partners implementing the international innovation project PERSIST are inviting to a hybrid (online and in person) event ‘PERSISTent to fight cancer, whatever I.T. takes’.

The project PERSIST aims to show the potential of big data technology for making fundamental changes in care delivery for cancer survivors through security of health data, Artificial intelligence and Big Data, improved health care and new scientific research.

During the event, the project implementers will aim to assess the development of innovation in the health and care sector, in terms of research and technological advancement in the future, as well as exploitation of the new and innovative technologies and how they will be used in practice. The event will also raise awareness and improve the understanding among stakeholders on the key benefits from project PERSIST and other projects alike. Those present will get to know how the PERSIST mHealth app is applied and addresses people in need and tries to address the unmet medical needs, in context of digitalization. PERSIST implementors will encourage long-term commitment and engagement of policymakers and stakeholders on supporting and further developing projects as PERSIST and will highlight what are the concrete patient benefits and how PERSIST is making fundamental changes in care delivery for cancer survivors.

Working language of the event – English.

More information about the event ‘PERSISTent to fight cancer, whatever I.T. takes’ is available on the project page.

To register for participation in the hybrid event please fill out the registration form.

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

ICCCS project screening group experts have visited Latvia

From September 19 to 21, screening group experts of the project "Improving Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia” (ICCCS) visited Latvia to meet the involved parties – the Latvian Ministry of Health, hospitals’, institutes’ and other institutions’ representatives.

During the meetings, the project experts got to know the work of Latvian health specialists and the current practices in the field of cancer screening. In course of the project, the experts will prepare recommendations for improving the cancer screening processes. The project is by the European Commission's (EC) Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM) and is in line with the European Commission’s Cancer Mission. It aims to contribute to the reduction of cancer mortality, improve cancer registration in the population, establish and achieve the accreditation of a comprehensive cancer care and research infrastructure / networks, as well as improve breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening programs. The implementation of the project in Latvia takes place by the initiative of UL ICPM.

Photos: from personal archive. The ICCCS experts Nadya Dimitrova (International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)) and Iris Lansdorp – Vogelaar (Erasmus MC Rotterdam Department of Public Health) are meeting the representatives of the Latvian parties.

Meeting with the director of the Research and Health Statistics Department of The Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of Latvia Jana Lepiksone

Meeting with the Family Doctor Javgēnijs Bondins at the Family Practice Center „Alma”

Meeting with the representatives of the „Centrālā Laboratorija” („Central Laboratory”), member of the board Edvīns Kāzušs, head of the Department of Molecular Biology Marta Priedīte, and laboratory specialist Beatrise Orlova

Meeting with Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital’s Gastroenterologist Eduards Krustiņš

Meeting with Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital’s Breast Surgeon Arvīds Irmejs

Meeting with „Datamed” Member of the Board Normunds Ančupāns

Meeting with the Member of Board and the Chief physician of the Gastroenterology Clinic „Gastro” Ivars Tolmanis

Meeting with the Radiologist of the Riga East Clinical University Hospital Evija Asare

Meeting with the Head of the Riga East Clinical University Hospital Pathology Centre Aija Balode

The first face-to-face meeting of the project Pragma-TIC partners has been held in Riga

From September 19 to 20, the first meeting of the project Pragma-TIC partners has been held in University of Latvia, Riga. The project is implemented with the financial support of the Europan Union program Erasmus +, and its goal is to promote digital support for European hospital patients and their primary caregivers.

The project tasks envisage increasing the digital skills of health specialists and their patients, resulting in creation of a practically applicable e-learning platform prototype. In future, it would facilitate the work of medical workers as well as promote patients' independence and the ability to manage their healthcare remotely, if necessary. The said digital training prototype will be created through mutual cooperation between medical staff and patients.

The project is implemented by the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, the Central Hospital of Liège (the leading partner of the project) and the information and communication technology company "Inforef" in Belgium, the University Medical Center Maribor in Slovenia, as well as Centre for Digital Psychiatry
Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark.

During the meeting in Riga, the working group discussed the progress of the project implementation, the time schedule, research questions, mechanisms for attracting participants, the development of the communication plan, and the structure and usage of the project’s platform www.pragma-tic.eu

Further on, Pragma-TIC working group meetings will take place once a month online, and the next meeting in person is planned to be held next year in Slovenia.

Photos: from personal archive. Meeting of the Pragma-TIC working group in Riga.

The project Pragma-TIC "Digital Health Literacy for the Hospital of the Future” (grant No. 21PCA0019 / 2021-1-BE01-KA220-ADU-000033677) is funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.

A poster presentation on the results of the HYCOR project, implemented by UL ICPM, is to be given at the UEGWEEK 2022

The poster presentation "Application of modular multi-sensor VOC analyzer for non-invasive detection of colorectal cancer", prepared by the resident doctor Linda Anarkulova - the senior laboratory technician of the HYCOR project -, has been approved for presentation at the congress at the United European Gastroenterology Week 2022, taking place from 2022 from October 8 to October 11, 2022 in Austria, Vienna. It can be visited both in person and remotely online. Please find out more information on the event’s website. 

L. Anarkulova's report is on the screening of colorectal cancer - one of the most common and deadliest tumors. In order to reduce the mortality caused by colorectal cancer, it is necessary to implement an effective screening method. Such a method could be breath analysis, which is based on the detection of volatile organic compounds in the breath using a sensor breath analyzer. The aim of the study was to differentiate between colorectal cancer patients and individuals without cancer, and included two study groups: colorectal cancer patients and a control group. Participants in these two groups performed a breath test in a sensor breath analyzer. The obtained results showed that the sensor breath analyzer is able to distinguish between colorectal cancer patients and control group study participants. 

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 "Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening" 

UL ICPM is widely represented at the XXXV EHMSG Workshop

On September 8 - 10, the XXXVth Workshop of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group - EHMSG 2022 is taking place in Glasgow, Scotland.

Several representatives of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine are present to represent reports on their researches, and the abstaracts are published on the official journal of the EHMSG, "Micribiota in Health and Disease" (https://www.microbiotajournal.com/):

• D. Razuka – Ebela, I. Polaka, I. Ebela, I. Daugule, R. Herrero, M. Leja:

„Reflux Espohagitis associated with false negative cases in pepsinogen testing for precancerous gastric lesions”

 

• D. Slefarska-Wolak, R. Vangravs, M. Leja, L. Mezmale, G. Shani, C. Mayhew, H. Haick, P. Mochalski:

„The volatomic signature of Helicobacter pylori”

 

• J.M. Huguet, L. Ferrer-Barcelo, P. Suarez, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, F. Lerang, A. Tonkic, H. Simsek, L. Kunovsky, A. Gasbarrini, G. M. Buzas, P. Phull, M. Venerito, I. Puig, O.P. Nyssen, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Role of complience in Helicobacter Pylori treatments: results from the European registry on H.pylori management (HP-Eureg)”

 

• L. Bujanda, O. Perez-Nyssen, J. Ramos, D.S. Bordyn, B. Tepes, A. Perez-Aisa, D. Vaira, M. Caldas, M. Castro-Fernandez, F. Leran, M. Leja, L. Rodrigo, T. Rokkas, L. Kupcinskas, J. Perez-Lasala, I. Puig, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J. Perez-Gisbert, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Effectiveness of treatments against Helicobacter Pylori according to clarithromycin: Data from the European registry on helicobacter pylori management (HP-Ereg)"

 

• L. Fernandez-Salazar, A. Perez-Aisa, D. Vaira, L. Jonaitis, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, A. Keco-Huerga, A. Lucendo, L. Vologzhanina, L. Bujanda, N. Brglez Jurecic, A. Lanas, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, T. Rokkas, I. Puig, O.P. Nyssen, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Effectiveness and safety of high-dose dual therapy: Results of the European registry on the management of Helicobacter Pylori infection (HP-Eureg)”

 

• M. Zaharova, E. Zelca, D. Gudra, D. Fridmanis, I. Daugule:

„Changes in gut microbiota after antibacterial therapy among childre: Prelimenary data”

 

• O. Sjomina, R. Vangravs, A. Rudule, I. Polaka, S. Parsutins, D. Pupola, I. Stonans, M. Leja:

„The comparison of standard triple therapy effectiveness after addition of Saccharomyces boulardii”

 

• O.P. Nyssen, A. Perez-Aisa, D. Vaira, L. Jonaitis, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, A. Keco-Huerga, A. Lucendo, L. Vologzhanina, L. Bujanda, N. Brglez Jurecic, A. Lanas, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, F. Larang, L. Moreira, I. Puig, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Epmirical first-line treatment use and effectiveness trends in Europe in the period 2013 – 2021: Results from the European registry on H.pylori management (HP-Eureg)”

 

• P. Jonaitis, J. Kupcinskas, A. Perez-Aisa, D, Vaira, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, L. Bujanda, M. Denkovski, A. Lanas, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, F. Lerang, A. Tonkic, O.P. Nyssen, L. Moreira, I. Puig, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, L. Jonaitis, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Differences of Helicobacter Pylori diagnostics and treatment in the elderly and non-elderly populations: data from European registry on H.pylori management (HP-Eureg)”

 

• P. Jonaitis, J. Kupcinskas, A. Perez-Aisa, D. Vaira, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, L. Bujanda, M. Denkovski, A. Lanas, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, F. Lerang, A. Tonkic, O.P. Nyssen, L. Moreira, I. Puig, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, L. Jonaitis, on behalf of the HP-Eureg investigators:

„Comparison of the effectiveness of Helicobacter Pylori eradication regiments between the eldrely and non-eldrely populations: data from the European registy of H.Pylori management (HP-Eureg)”

 

• S. Martinez – Domingues, E. Alfaro, P. Sarrera – Lasfuentes, A. Lanas, A. Perez – Ainsa, D. Vaira, L. Jonaitis, B. Tepes, D. Bordin, M. Castro – Fernandez, A. Lucendo, M. Leja, G. Babayeva, F. Lerang, L. Moreira, I. Puig, O.P. Nyssen, F. Megraud, C. O’Morain, J.P. Gisbert, on behalf of the HP-Eureg inverstigator:

„Mistakes in empirical eradication therapies for helicobacter pylori in 45,778 patients: Data from the European registry on H.Pylori management (HP-Eureg)”

 

Read more about the event on https://www.ehmsg.org/

© Photos: From personal archive. The president of the EHMSG 2022 is opening the event

With a meeting in Israel, the VOGAS project has entered the finalization stage

From 21st to 24th August, a face-to-face meeting of partners of the VOGAS ("Screening of Gastric Cancer via Breath volatile organic compounds by Hybrid Sensing Approach") project took place in Israel, Haifa.

While the meeting, the administrative manager of the project Liat Zuri and the leading expert of the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine (UL ICPM) Iveta Eniņa discussed the preparation for the final stage of the project, including the final report preparation and audit, as well as discussed other administrative issues.

While the meeting with the scientific manager of the project Gidi Shani, the organization of the final meeting of the VOGAS project partners was discussed, as well as the potential cooperation in other projects, including the recently approved LUCIA project ("Understanding Lung Cancer related risk factors and their impact") – that is planned to be kick-started on 1st January, 2023, and is supported by the European Union program "Horizon Europe" sub-programme "Research and Innovation actions supporting the implementation of the Mission on Cancer".

The meeting took place at the headquarters of the VOGAS project leading administrative partner, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, where the representative of the UL ICPM also got to know the work of the Technion’s technical laboratories.

© Photo: From personal archive. The meeting of the project administrtaive managers of the UL ICPM and Technion (Israel) in Haifa (Israel)

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

The project A-PATCH has been finished

In June 2022, the A-PATCH project (Autonomous Patch for Real-Time Detection of Infectious Disease), supported by the European Union program "Horizon 2020" and implemented by the UL ICPM, ended.

For more insight, listen to the science podcast #CORDIScovery with project coordinator Hossam Haick explaining how such a patch could help in the fight against tuberculosis https://anchor.fm/cordiscovery/episodes/Fighting-the-spread-of-Tuberculosis-e1jub2h?fbclid=IwAR0CJcugBtvaQ6jfCbsqnlK8Z6hcxi4bqPX0JUhq7oqAYIGlXHjhZF6lEQI

Get to know the results achieved in the project on the A-PATCH website.

 

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824270

As part of the GISTAR project, several patiens have started a H.pylori eradication therapy

Continuing the UL Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine project “Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening - HYCOR”, in cooperation with Liepaja Regional Hospital, several patiens have started a H.pylori eradication therapy.

As part of the project, the H.pylori eradication therapy to the patiets is provided free of charge.

H.pylori is a helix-shaped bacteria accommodated to live in the acidic environment of the human stomach. It is responsible for the development of various gastric diseases including gastric cancer. Therefore, this is important to identify timely the individuals at increased risk.

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project ‘Practical Studies’, 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 ‘Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening’.

Prof. M. Leja gives a lecture on the use of breath volatile organic markers in symposium in Guatemala

"IX International Symposium on Helicobacter pylori Infection and Gastric Cancer" is taking place from July 20 to 22 at the Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala.

The conference is traditionally organized by the National Cancer Institute (USA) experts in collaboration to the representatives from Centralamerican and South American countries.

The meeting is bringing together specialists in the field from American countries as well as from Europe and other countries.

This year the establishment of Latin American H.pylori study group is discussed; collaboration to the European group is anticipated.

The Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, Prof. Marcis Leja is presenting an overview on the use of breath volatile organic markers for gastric cancer detection.

© Photo: From personal archive. UL ICPM cooperation partner, prof. Alejandro Corvalan from Chile is opening the second day of the conference

© Photos: From personal archive

A paper originating from the GISTAR study on biomerkers for detecting gastric precancerous  lesions is published online

A paper on the relevance of blood biomarkers (including pepsinogen) for non-invasive diagnosis of gastric precancerous lesions has been published in DIAGNOSTICS

Assessment of Serum Pepsinogens with and without Co-Testing with Gastrin-17 in Gastric Cancer Risk Assessment—Results from the GISTAR Pilot Study

The study was carried out using the GISTAR material gained in the study GISTAR, run by UL ICPM in the regions of Latvia.  

The research was performed in close cooperation within an international consortium. The first author of the paper is Claudia Robles from Spain, other authorship include researchers from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (France) among the team from the UL ICPM.

The study was performed in cooperation with the Center for Digestive Diseases GASTRO and Academic Histology Laboratory. 

An insight into the coverage of the founding of AHMSG in the Nigerian mass media

On June 27 – 29, 2022, in Lagos, Nigeria, a formal founding conference of the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (AHMSG, as well as an expert meeting on the development of guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori in the continent of Africa was held.

At the founding conference of AHMSG, representing the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (EHMSG, the director of UL ICPM, prof. Marcis Leja took part and gave a lecture on the experience of gastric cancer screening in Europe, emphasizing specific features on the African continent.

We offer an insight into publications in the Nigerian mass media!

NIMR to Host African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Initiative, New Telegraph NG, 16.06.2022.

African scientists advance research on bacteria pathogen, Sun News Online, 04.07.2022.

Study group to improve Helicobacter diagnosis, treatment outcomes, New Telegraph NG, 07.07.2022.

Latvian policymakers and specialists have been introduced to a globally recognized methodology for cost-effectiveness modeling of cancer screening

By the initiative of UL ICPM, prof. Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar (ERASMUS University Medical Center) presentation on cost-effectiveness modeling of cancer screening has been introduced.

Outlining that a well set and properly organized cancer screening can be and is cost-effective, specialists in the relevant field of the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance and their subordinate institutions, as well as specialists of cancer screening working groups, were addressed.

The lecturer is one of the world's leading experts in this field, and her methodology (MISCAN model (MIcrosimulation SCreening Analysis)) is being used in many countries all over Europe and the USA.

The MISCAN method is also used in the European project EU-TOPIA. The aim of the project is to provide national, regional and local policy makers with expertise and tools to evaluate and quantify their cancer screening programmes for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer.

During the presentation, prof. Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar outlined the most important economic benefits of effective cancer screening, the prerequisites for ensuring effective cancer screening, and also presented the EU-TOPIA operating principles.

We invite everyone interested to watch the meeting with prof. Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar and her presentation in video format:

Presentation on modelling for cancer screening by Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar from LU KPMI on Vimeo.

The meeting took place within the framework of the project "Improving cancer care coordination and screening in Latvia and Slovakia, ICCCS" funded by the European Commission's (EC) Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM), which was initiated by the University of Latvia Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine (UL ICPM).

UL ICPM representatives have taken part at the PERSIST partners meeting in Switzerland

From June 29 to June 30 in Sierre, Switzerland, representatives of UL ICPM, researcher Dina Bēma and assistant scientific manager of the project Linda Tupiņa, participated in the project PERSIST (Patients-centered SurvivorShip care plan after Cancer treatments based on Big Data and Artificial Intelligence technologies) face-to-face meeting and working group activities held at the Swiss Digital Center Techno-Pole.

During the meeting, the progress of the project so far was reviewed and the current activities planned for the next period were discussed, including the changes to be made in the tasks of the work packages. Also, during the exchange of experience and knowledge of the project partners, the functionality of the project's data input platform was discussed and evaluated, with the aim of improving the obtained results. New information was received about the implementation process of the technical solutions expected in the project.

The goal of the PERSIST project is to find ways to provide patients with individualized post-cancer care. After completing a course of cancer treatment, participants in the study received a smartwatch and a smartphone with a specially designed mHealth app that helps doctors keep track of their health.

The study is international and its clinical part with the inclusion of patients is not only taking place in Latvia, but also in Belgium, Slovenia and Spain. In Latvia, the UL ICPM is responsible for the conduct of the PERSIST clinical trial.

© Photos: From personal archive

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

With UL ICPM director, Prof. M. Leja, present, African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group has been founded

With European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (EHMSG) experts present, from June 27 until June 29, 2022, a formal conference on the founding of the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (initiative) (AHMSG) as well as the expert meeting on the development of guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori in Africa were held.

The EHMSG whos experience was used as the basis for estabilshing the AHMSG, was invited to be represented by two experts, including the UL ICPM director, Prof. Mārcis Leja.

Representatives of many African countries took part in the meeting, presenting their experience so far, and the differences between the involved countries. During the conference, M. Leja gave a lecture on gastric cancer screening, emphasizing topicalities in Europe, as well as paying attention to the specific features applicable in the African continent. The event attracted widespread media attention, including television, and was positioned as a historic event in African cooperation.

Similarly to the EHMSG, the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (initiative)is composed of experts from several countries on the African continent. Its mission is to develop guidelines for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infections and to promote related research on the continent.

 

© Photos: From personal archive

The annual EHMSG conference is being planned

On June 24 and 25, in Bordeaux, France, a meeting of the management board of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (EHMSG), including the UL ICPM director Mārcis Leja, was held. During the meeting, the annual EHMSG conference in Glasgow, Scotland, which is expected to take place in September this year, was planned. The report on microbial changes in children in connection with H.pylori eradication therapy by Prof. Ilva Daugule was chosen as one of the best presentations to be included in the conference. Congratulations!

© Photo: Publicity photo; Meeting of the management board of the European Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (EHMSG)

We wish you a merry Summer Solstice celebration!

The UL ICPM will be back in the office on June 27.

For the first time, Latvia has been at the OECI 2022 Oncology Days

On 15 – 17 June in Valencia, Spain, the OECI 2022 Oncology Days, organized by the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI), took place. In the framework of the event, a plenary meeting of all 110 participating organizations and accompanying scientific conferences were held under the slogan "Drive the future in comprehensive cancer care”.

Representing Latvia for the first time, the director of the LU ICPM, the head of the Science Department of the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, member of the European Commission's Cancer Mission, Prof. Mārcis Leja took part in the events. In a roundtable discussion, Mārcis Leja together with OECI board member Mef Nilbert and OECI Vice President and member of the Scientific Council Giovanni Apolone outlined the perspectives of the European Commission's Cancer Mission Board and Sub-group on Cancer, looking at opportunities and challenges, striving for excellence in comprehensive cancer care, research and education.

OECI is a non-governmental, non-profit organization that promotes cooperation between European cancer centers and institutes.

The unifying goal of its member organizations is to reduce the fragmentation of mutual cooperation, thus giving every European citizen the opportunity to receive the best possible cancer treatment and care.

The participants of the study PERSIST meet with the technical partners of the project for the second time and participate in a seminar

On June 8, a remote meeting with technical partners of PERSIST took place in the premises of the Faculty of Business Management and Economics of the University of Latvia. The study participants have received a smartwatch and a smartphone with a specially designed app mHealth - to enable the doctors to keep track of patients’ health, including recording their physical activity, after completing cancer treatment. The meeting was opened by a seminar on the importance of physical activity in everyday life and the impact on patients' health, lead by a physiologist of physical activity and a certified occupational therapist, Dr. med. Rūdolfs Cešeiko.

During the meeting with the technical partners of the project, the participants of the study discussed and evaluated the operation of the health application and devices. The feedback and suggestions from the participants help technical partners to improve the PERSIST system.

The goal of PERSIST is to find ways to provide individualized aftercare for cancer treatment. The project is international, and its clinical part with the involvement of patients is taking place not only in Latvia, but also in Belgium, Slovenia and Spain. In Latvia, the PERSIST clinical trial is implemented by the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia.

 

© Photo: from personal archive

© Photo: from personal archive; PERSIST UL clinical study manager Dina Bēma and  physiologist of physical activity and a certified occupational therapist, Dr. med. Rūdolfs Cešeiko

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

A dissertation on antibodies for gastric cancer patients has been defended with excellent results

On May 24, 2022, the 6th year student at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Latvia, Meret Appel, defended her diploma thesis “Anti – parietal cell and anti – intrinsic factor antibodies in gastric cancer” with excellent results. Support in the development of the dissertation was also provided by the doctoral candidate Petra Kriķe. The work was developed in close collaboration with UL ICPM partners in the USA - Innova Laboratories in San Diego and the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

Congratulations to Meret on the excellent result!

© Photo: from personal archive

OECI and IARC experts and the Working Group on the improvement of a comprehensive cancer infrastructure / network in Latvia has been concluded

On May 17 and 18, expert visits of the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and a Comprehensive Cancer Infrastructure / Network Working Group took place in Latvia, to continue work on the development of a comprehensive cancer care infrastructure in Latvia within the framework of the project “Improvement of Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia” - proposed by the UL ICPM.

During the visit, the experts and the project team got acquainted with the activities of the involved Latvian hospitals, institutes and institutions.

On the second day of visit to Latvia the delegation got acquainted with the work of Children’s University Hospital, Latvian Biobank, Genome database of Latvian population and UL ICPM clinical and research laboratories. The visit was closed with a conversation with the Minister of Health Daniel Pavļuts and a meeting with the Vice-Rector for Science Agrita Kiopa.

The project is funded by the European Commission (EC) Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM).

© Publicity photos

Within the framework of the VOGAS project, the team of LU KPMI was visiting partners in Brazil

From May 7 to 16 our team representing the VOGAS project - Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia, head of the VOGAS clinical group of the project Prof. Mārcis Leja, research assistant of the project Linda Mežmale and leading researcher of the institute Inese Poļaka - met with cooperation partners in South America, Brazil.

In Manaus and the São Paulo Clinical Center, the team conducted a detailed analysis planning, discused clinical activities at each center, provided an up-to-date insight into project outcomes, and continued the development of the breath test screening / early detection equipment, started in the VOGAS project.

© Photos: from personal archive

The project „Screening of Gastric Cancer via Breath volatile organic compunds by Hybrid Sensing Approach” has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No  824986

An international group of experts will work on the improvement of a comprehensive cancer infrastructure / network in Latvia

On May 17 and 18, the experts from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (OECI) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer IARC) are visiting Latvia as part of project “Improvement of Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia”. One of the main goals is meeting of the Comprehensive Cancer Infrastructure / Network Working Group.

The aim of the visit of the experts and the meeting of the working group is to get acquainted with the current situation in Latvia and to find out the preconditions for the development of an improved cancer care infrastructure in line with OECI European standards. As a result, the experts are to propose a strategic plan adapted to the situation in Latvia, marking also the time plan for the implementation of the proposals.

This is a project funded by the European Commission's (EC) Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM). The project will lead to a reduction in cancer mortality, improved cancer registration, accreditation of comprehensive cancer care and research infrastructures / networks, and improved breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening programs.

The working group is to discuss the progress and current issues of the project implementation, as well as get acquainted with the activities of the Latvian institutions:

Hospitals:

• Riga East University Hospital
• Children’s University Hospital
• P. Stradins Clinical University Hospital

Universities and Research Institutes:

• Riga Stradins University
• University of Latvia
• Latvia Biomedical Research and Study Centre
• Institute of Organic Synthesis

Government Ministries

• Ministry of Education and Science
• Ministry of Environment Protection and Regional Development
• Latvia Academy of Science

On the second day of the visit, experts are to get acquainted with the work of Children’s University Hospital, as well as visit the Biobank, the State Genome Database of the State and the LU KPMI clinical and research laboratories.

The visit will be concluded by a conversation with the Minister of Health Daniels Pavļuts and a meeting with the Rector of RSU, Prof. Aigars Petersons, as well as university researchers.

A scientific article on Digestive cancer screening across Europe has been published

Among the authors of the paper "Digestive cancer screening across Europe" - LU professor, gastroenterologist, LU KPMI director Mārcis Leja, along with Patrizia Burra, Michael Bretthauer, Maria Buti Ferret, Ana Dugic, Pierluigi Fracasso, Tamara Matysiak Budnik, Patrick Michl, Luigi Ricciardiello, Thomas Seufferlein, Monique van Leerdam, and Andreea Botos.

This position paper presents available evidence and the main issues that need to be addressed to ensure the successful implementation of screening for the four cancers - gastric, colorectal, liver and pancreatic cancer -, providing recommendations to aid informed decision-making in reducing the burden of digestive cancers across Europe.

The paper is available online at the "United European Gastroenterology Journal": http://doi.org/10.1ueg2.12230

© Photo: Book publishing photo created by Racool_studio - www.freepik.com

LU KPMI’s specialists have participated in a seminar on Development of Biobanks for the Needs and Discoveries of the Next Generation of Science

On 22nd April, the seminar “Development of Biobanks for the Needs and Discoveries of the Next Generation of Science” took place at the Academic Center of the University of Latvia.

Biobanking in the world is moving into a direction of personalized medicine enhancement and clinical and omics data driven AI projects potentially enabling next-generation medical discoveries. The aim of this seminar was to show-case these tendencies and forward the situation in Latvian biobanking network to develop resources and competences for the contemporary research needs. This seminar ensured knowledge transfer within Latvian Biobanking network to increase biobanking resource sustainability in Latvia and collaboration with major international players.

The event hosted presentations from:

The Head of the scientific council of the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center Prof. Jānis Kloviņš,

Chairman of the Board of the Children's Clinical University Hospital Valts Ābols,

The Head of Genome Database of Latvian population Dr.biol. Vita Rovīte,

As well as Director Prof. Mārcis Leja, and Assoc. Prof., Leading researcher, Bioethics Specialist Signe Mežinska of LU KPMI.

© Photo: Lecture hall photo created by jannoon028 - www.freepik.com

We wish you a Happy Easter!

Please note we will be out of office enjoying the celebration from Friday, 15th April until Tuesday, 19th April.

The scientific research center work in Liepāja has been presented to the media

In presence of media representatives, a press conference - informative presentation on the launch of the Liepāja Research Center was held. Its aim was to tell of the practical processes and importance of the research emphasizing the benefits of a timely diagnosis of a disease.

For successful results of the study, gentlemen aged 40 to 64 are especially invited to apply for participation in the study. The center in Liepāja is open at Jūrmalas Street 23 every working day from 7:00 to 13:00. To apply and receive a free gastrointestinal examination (screening) please call 25679868

© Photo: from personal archive: the team of the Liepāja research center

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project ‘Practical Studies’, 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 ‘Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening’

Finnish partners have been hosted in Latvia

At the end of March, LU KPMI hosted the partner of the projects VOGAS and A-Patch, the senior research scientist of the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Veikko Ikonen. During his stay, he visited the clinical partner of the LU KPMI - Riga East University Hospital  Latvian Oncology Centre and Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Center (TLDC) as well as met with the medical staff of the LU KPMI. Employees who work with patients on a daily basis presented the clinical activities of the A-Patch and VOGAS projects, patient recruitment processes, the conduct of breath tests, and VOC detection from the surface of skin. V. Ikonen was also introduced with the LU KPMI Biobank and the processes of collection and storage of biological samples of patients. The main ethical aspects of the study, ensuring a safe conduct of the study for patients, were also discussed during the meeting.

© Photo: from personal archive: from left: Veikko Ikonen, the senior research scientist of the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland; Aija Kārkliņa, LU KPMI’s medical nurse; Viktors Veliks, the senior research scientist of LU KMPI

© Photo: from personal archive: A-Patch clinical process by Ruta Deklava, TLDC / LU KPMI nurse

The project „Screening of Gastric Cancer via Breath volatile organic compunds by Hybrid Sensing Approach” has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No  824986

The project „Autonomous Patch for Real-Time Detection of Infectious Disease” has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 824270

Press conference - informative presentation on the launch of the Liepaja Research Center

On Monday, April 11 at 14:00 in Liepāja, 23 Jūrmalas Street media representatives are invited to a press conference - informative presentation on the launch of the Liepāja Research Center - a joint research project of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia (LU KPMI) and Liepāja Regional Hospital.

Attendees will be able to find out the most significant benefits of the opening of the research center in Liepāja, what is the GISTAR study and HYCOR project, what are their goals and tasks, as well as to get acquainted with the research process in Liepāja.

Please apply for participation by sending an e-mail to amanda.boka@lu.lv

Participating:

Aiga Rūdule, LU KPMI senior expert, administrative manager of GISTAR research

Andris Vistiņš, HYCOR project partner - Liepāja Regional Hospital Board Member

Dr. Mārcis Leja, LU professor, gastroenterologist, LU KPMI director, scientific manager of GISTAR research and HYCOR project

Context:

Each year, 3.88 million new cases of digestive system cancers are detected worldwide. About 2.83 million people die of them annually. Latvia belongs to a high-risk area with 600 people diagnosed with gastric cancer every year. About 500 patients die due to gastric cancer every year. Colorectal cancer (cancer of the large intestine) and cancer of the stomach are among the most common digestive cancers. Most of the cancers are preventable; if diagnosed early, most of the cancers, including colorectal and gastric cancers are treatable successfully.

GISTAR is a scientific study aiming to reduce mortality from gastric cancer. It aims to search for new intervention strategies to prove the efficacy of gastric cancer screening and optimize colorectal cancer screening in high-risk areas.

Free gastrointestinal examinations (screenings) of the population aged 40-64 are performed in regional research centers, with an aim of developing screening methods for the earliest possible diagnosis of the disease. The obtained data help improving the efficiency of systematic research of gastrointestinal tumors.

HYCOR is a scientific project based on the GISTAR study, which aims to promote the concept of an exhaled volatile marker in colorectal cancer screening by promoting the development of a new hybrid analyzer for this purpose.

More about LU KPMI, scientific project HYCOR and research GISTAR: www.kpmi.lu.lv; www.gistar.eu

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project ‘Practical Studies’, 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 ‘Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal canec screening.

Closing the project dedicated to prevention of gastric cancer, its results have been presented at an international conference

With a participation in the International Scientific Conference on Medicine 2022, the LU KPMI ERDF project No. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 “Optimization of H. pylori eradication scheme for mass gastric cancer prevention measures” has been closed. At the conference, the results of the project were presented by research assistants Olga Sjomina and Reinis Vangravs:

• Sjomina Olga, Suhorukova Jekaterina, Rūdule Aiga, Vangravs Reinis, Paršutins Sergejs, Poļaka Inese, Daugule Ilva, Stonāns Ilmārs, Park Jin Young, Leja Mārcis – "Addition of Saccharomyces Boulardii to Standard Triple Therapy in Eradication of H. pylori: Comparison of Adverse Events and Effectiveness”.
• Vangravs Reinis, Čivkulis Kristaps, Ļeonova Elīna, Dauss Edgars, Poļaka Inese, Sjomina Olga, Leja Mārcis – "The Use of Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing for Detection of H. Pylori Pre- and Post-Eradication: Bioinformatics Feasibility Assessment”.

During the project, the team has succeeded in achieving the intended and have obtained the necessary data that have been analysed to prepare a total of five scientific articles. Three of them have been already published and two have been submitted and awaiting for publication:

1. "Early detection of gastric cancer beyond endoscopy - new methods"  Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology,Volumes 50–51, March–April 2021, 101731, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpg.2021.101731
2. Sjomina et al., "Randomised clinical trial: comparison of efficacy and adverse effects of a standard triple clarithromycin-containing regimen with high-dose amoxicillin and bismuth therapy in Helicobacter pylori eradication", 'European Journal of Cancer Prevention', https://journals.lww.com/eurjcancerprev/toc/publishahead
3. Sabine Skrebinska et.al., “Who Could Be Blamed in the Case of Discrepant Histology and Serology Results for Helicobacter pylori Detection?”, https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/12/1/133/htm
4. Razuka-Ebela Danute et.al., “Factors associated with false negative results in serum pepsinogen testing for precancerous gastric lesions in a European population in the GISTAR study”, submitted to journal „Diagnostincs” on 31.03.2022.
5. Vangravs Reinis et.al., “Clarithromycin-containing triple therapy for H. pylori eradication is inducing increased long-term gut resistome”, submitted to journal “Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics” on 31.03.2022.

© Photo: Vintage microphone photo created by jannoon028 - www.freepik.com

The Project is implemented by ERDF (European Regional Development Fund ) within the framework of 2nd part of measure 1.1.1.1. "Practical Studies", project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/18/A/184 "Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention"

The International Scientific Conference on Medicine is over

From March 25 to 26, 2022, the International Scientific Conference on Medicine took place within the framework of the 80th Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia. The conference covered various disciplines of clinical and research medicine, pharmacy, public health. For epidemiological security reasons, all sessions took place online on the Zoom platform.

Researchers of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia and students involved in the research work participated in the conference with several reports and e-stand reports:

• Birka Ilze "The gut microbiota and diet”.
• Girgensone Ginta, Birka Ilze, Anspuka Līva, Šantare Daiga – "The Impact of the Nordic Diet on Fatigue in Mild and Moderate Ulcerative Colitis Patients”.
• Jurkevica Ineta, Daugule Ilva, Kojalo Ilona, Poļaka Inese, Paršutins Sergejs, Leja Mārcis, Šantare Daiga – "Evaluation of Dietary Habits of Jekabpils Inhabitants: Adherence to Nordic Diet and Association With Helicobacter Pylori Infection”.
• Mežmale Linda, Poļaka Inese, Anarkulova Linda, Leščinska Anna Marija, Pčolkins Andrejs, Mizaikoff Boris, Mitrovics Jan, Shani Gidi, Haick Hossam, Leja Mārcis – "Initial Results of Electronic Nose for Colorectal Cancer Specific Breath Detection”.
• Ražuka-Ebela Danute, Poļaka Inese, Parshutin Sergei, Ebela Inguna, Daugule Ilva, Šantare Daiga, Sjomina Olga, Herrero Rolando, Park Jin Young, Leja Mārcis – "Current Smoking Associated with Precancerous Gastric Lesions “Missed” by Serologic Pepsinogen Testing”.
• Sjomina Olga, Suhorukova Jekaterina, Rūdule Aiga, Vangravs Reinis, Paršutins Sergejs, Poļaka Inese, Daugule Ilva, Stonāns Ilmārs, Park Jin Young, Leja Mārcis – "Addition of Saccharomyces Boulardii to Standard Triple Therapy in Eradication of H. pylori: Comparison of Adverse Events and Effectiveness”.
• Vangravs Reinis, Čivkulis Kristaps, Ļeonova Elīna, Dauss Edgars, Poļaka Inese, Sjomina Olga, Leja Mārcis – "The Use of Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing for Detection of H. Pylori Pre- and Post-Eradication: Bioinformatics Feasibility Assessment”.

The theses prepared by the participants are summarized and published in Appendix 1 of the 58th issue of the internationally cited journal “Medicina”.

Researchers and students of LMI KPMI participate in the international scientific conference of medicine

This year, the International Scientific Conference of the University of Latvia celebrates its 80th anniversary and its meetings in medicine and pharmacy will take place on 25-26. in March. This year's event takes place remotely on the Zoom platform. Researchers of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine and students involved in research work have been participating in the conference for several years already, and this year is no exception.

Those interested can follow the conference work virtually. The program of the event and Zoom access links, as well as e-stand reports are published on the conference website. The theses prepared by the participants are compiled in a revised thesis stock and issued in Annex 1 to number 58 of the internationally quoted journal “Medicina”.

© Photo: Toms Grīnbergs, LU Communication Department.

Visits of foreign experts and participation in the Congress "On Equality in Overcoming Cancer" continue

On the third day of the visit, the leaders of the project “Improving the Coordination and Screening of Cancer Care in Latvia and Slovakia” funded by the European Commission's Technical Assistance Facility (DG REFORM) visited the private practice of general practitioner Dr. Andris Baumanis and visited the Central Laboratory.

© Photo from personal archive
 Photos of foreign experts visit the private practice of general practitioner Andris Baumanis

After the visits of international experts, the guests participated in the congress "On Equality in Overcoming Cancer", where one of the speakers was the director of the University of Latvia KPMI Mārcis Leja with a lecture "Tools on how to implement EU Cancer Mission's recommendations at national levels".

 

© Photo from personal archive
 In the picture Mārcis Leja

Foreign experts continue visits within the framework of the project “Improvement of Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia”

Specialists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the ERASMUS Medical Center have visited the Children's Clinical University Hospital, the polyclinic of the Association of Health Centers PULSS-5, the Laboratory of Academic Histology.

The first monitoring group meeting and press conference took place after the on-site visits, during which the participants were informed about the project “Improving cancer care coordination and screening in Latvia and Slovakia” funded by the European Commission's Technical Assistance Instrument (DG REFORM) funded project “Improvement of Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia” (ICCCS), initiated by the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia (LU KPMI).

"More than 12 thousand people are diagnosed with cancer in Latvia every year, but about 6 thousand die from cancer. Colorectal cancer is the most common type of cancer in Latvia, but breast cancer is in third place. The burden of cancer from both cancers can be reduced through a population-based, high-quality cancer screening program, ”said Dr. Andre Carvalho adds that effective cancer screening programs save lives by detecting tumors at an early stage and increasing their chances of survival. These measures prevent unnecessary suffering and death. In turn, data collection through high-quality cancer data recording is essential for effective cancer control policies and epidemiological research. These data form the basis for planning public health programs to prevent cancer and improve patient care, explains Dr. Andre Carvale.

Read more here.

© Photographer: Evija Trifanova
In the photo, foreign experts and members of the monitoring committee (from left: Dr. Partha Basu, Daniels Pavļuts, Aris Zakatistovs, Dr. Andre Carvalho)

Project “Improvement of Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia” is Launched

The Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia (LU KPMI) informs Europe's first comprehensive cancer care improvement project "Improving Cancer Care Coordination and Screening in Latvia and Slovakia" in Latvia is launched. In the project foreign experts will provide recommendations for the development of a strategic plan and a roadmap that will reduce cancer-related mortality in cooperation with national partners.

Within the framework of the project, foreign experts from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the ERASMUS Medical Center (Rotterdam, the Netherlands), as well as the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) have visited Latvia for several days. During the visit experts will provide their expertise to improve processes and implement the necessary services.

On March 16, foreign experts visited the current services in the field of cancer in Latvia. The guests visited the Riga East Clinical University Hospital, the Diagestive Diseases Center "Gastro", the Latvian Center for Disease and Prevention and the National Health Service (see photo).

  

© Photo from personal archive
 The photographs include visits by foreign experts to the Riga East Clinical University Hospital, the Digestive Diseases Center "Gastro" and the National Health Service.

Data from the LU KPMI project have been presented at the International Gastric Cancer Congress IGCC 2022

The International Gastric Cancer Congress (IGCC 2022) of the International Gastric Cancer Association (IGCA) took place from 6 to 9 March in Houston, Texas (USA), in a hybrid format (remotely in an epidemiologically safe environment).

Manohar Prasad Bhandari, a leading researcher at the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia, gave a remote stand presentation at the postdoctoral research project ‘Study of the relation between gastric microbiota and VOCs for the early detection of gastric cancer’ no. 1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/495. In his study, Bhandari analyzed volatile organic compounds derived from gastric cancer tissue and healthy gastric tissue identifying compounds that differ from cancerous and healthy tissue. It is planned to further analyze these compounds and use them in human exhalation analysis to determine the risk of gastric cancer, as well as in the development of non-invasive gastric cancer detection devices.

Manohar Prasad Bhandari’s postdoctoral project goal is to investigate the effects of volatile compounds, microbial changes, and exhaled markers on gastric microbiome for an early diagnosis of gastric cancer.

Program "Growth and Jobs" 1.1.1. Specific support objective “Increase the research and innovation capacity of Latvian scientific institutions and the ability to attract external funding by investing in human resources and infrastructure” 1.1.1.2. ERDF project No. of the measure “Support for postdoctoral research” 1.1.1.2/VIAA/3/19/495 "Study of the relation between gastric microbiota and VOCs for the early detection of gastric cancer"

Mārcis Leja: The voice of cancer patients must be heard

On the portal Delfi.lv you can read a conversation with the director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia, a member of the steering committee of the Congress of European Oncology Patient Organizations “On Equality in Overcoming Cancer” prof. Mārci Leju, on the importance of cancer patients' views in improving the quality of cancer care, current issues in cancer care, the European Congress of Oncology Patients' Congress on Equality in Cancer and the European Oncology Patients' common position in the congress's open letter.

You can read the article here.

Find out more about the European Congress of Oncology Patients' Congress on Equality in Cancer here. 

You will also be able to follow the congress online all day long on the Facebook account of the Onaliance with a translation into Latvian.

In the congress in Riga, European oncology patients will request to end the humiliating cancer treatment inequality

On 18 and 19 March a unique event in the field of oncology in the Baltics will take place in Riga, Latvia – the European Congress of Oncology Patient Organizations “On Equality in Beating Cancer”. It aims to prevent inequalities in cancer diagnosis, treatment, access to innovative medicines, and other areas.

The event is organized by the Latvian Association of Oncology Patient Organizations "Oncoaliance" in cooperation with the Special Committee on Beating Cancer (BECA) of the European Parliament. The event is co-organized by influential patient organizations of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries – Romania, Greece, Estonia, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Poland, etc.

Congress participants together with more than 30 internationally recognized experts – patient advocacy leaders, teachers, doctors, politicians, representatives of national governments and the European Parliament (EP) – will identify the causes of inequality in cancer care and request the CEE region health policy officials and decision-makers to address them so that cancer patients who are living in this part of the European Union (EU) would receive the same modern, innovative cancer care as in the EU's welfare states. Mārcis Leja Professor at the University of Latvia, Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia, former member of the Board of the EU Cancer Mission will speak in Congress as one of the speakers.

Read more about the event - HERE

Free testing for gastro-intestinal diseases

As part of ERDF project No 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 “Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening - HYCOR”, the University of Latvia's Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, in cooperation with Liepaja Regional Hospital, has started to carry out free gastro-intestinal disease tests for 40-64-year-olds.

Gastro-intestinal disease tests are performed in the Liepaja study centre: Jurmala Street 23, Liepaja. Study Centre working time 7:00 - 13:00. To sign in for free exams, please call 25 679 868.

More about the project – HERE

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035."

Training is being provided for the staff of the Liepaja Research Center

From 1.-11. training for future employees of the GISTAR Research Center is taking place at the Liepaja Research Center. Training is organized both on-site and remotely, according to epidemiological requirements. On March 2 a lecture for participants was given by ERDF project no. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 “Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening - HYCOR” Leading Researcher Marcis Leja. In the Microsoft Teams environment, Mārcis Leja introduced the research staff to the GISTAR research, the current issues of gastric and intestinal cancer in Latvia and in the world. The youngest scientists of the project Arnis Kiršners, Daiga Šantare and Sergejs Paršutins also took part in the training as teachers. During the training, the new team is introduced to the research website, data usage and security rules, GISTAR data management system, research protocol and inclusion of research participants, as well as collaboration with GPs and specialists at the local level.

© Photo from personal archive - photo with employees of Liepaja Research Center (from left side: Zanda Atmata, Agneta Freimane, Laura Rišmite)

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035."

The online Meeting Of Minds 4 from 23. till 24. february gathered over 100 patients, researchers, clinicians and caregivers around the question ,,How can new technologies better support patients?“

The event aimed at engaging patients and gathering important feedback from end-users. They were given the opportunity to share their insight and contribute to design better tools based on their needs as cancer patients and survivors. The Cluster members presented their projects with an overview of their work, the scope of their research and how they apply new technology in their solution designs.

Ten EU funded projects were presented during the event: MENHIR, LIFECHAMPS, ONCORELIEF, FAITH, PERSIST, QUALITOP, CLARIFY, ASCAPE, REBECCA, CAPABLE.

Project PERSIST was presented by its coordinator Victoria Cal. Gazihan Alankus from Gradiant and one of the app developers Gazihan Alankus from EMODA. They made a demonstration of the patients’ mHealth app of PERSIST.

One of the most exciting parts of the event was the roundtable discussion with cancer patients, who were invited to provide their insights on series of questions, related to trust in new technologies, patients’ participation in studies, data sharing and patients’ motivation to participate in the design of research of innovative digital health solutions.

Learn more: Meeting of Minds 4.

  

© Photos from PERSIST Blog - http://bit.ly/3C0nKvH

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

Chance to apply for free conference - Transforming Healthcare with AI

Deloitte Baltics, in partnership with digital marketing agency Adore, is inviting data practitioners, pharmaceutical companies, and public and private health organizations to join a free artificial intelligence(AI) and machine learning technology healthcare conference to discuss the various operational challenges faced by AI in the Baltics.

Transforming Healthcare with AI conference will take place online on 22 of February 2022, 9:30 – 15:00 EET.

Inese Polaka, leading researcher at the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, will also participate in the conference with a presentation “Experience and potential in clinical research: application of ML in process improvement and gaining new insights”. Un which she will speak about institute previous experience with AI and machine learning in medical data analysis, process improvement and introduction of new technologies, as well as planned applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Find out more about the conference.

Registration application form for the conference.

PERSIST is organizing a mini-symposia session on "Digital Health Interventions and Big Data for Personalized Cancer Survivorship" within ICCMSE 2022. The event will take place on October 26-29, 2022 in Crete, Greece. The session is dedicated to discussing the use of real-world data, big data, information technologies, and artificial intelligence to support cancer survivors and patients. Although primarily focused on solutions for cancer survivors and patients, any contribution towards improving (HR)QoL, using real-world data is welcome.

Deadline for submission: Extended Abstracts (3-4 pages) should be submitted by 06 August 2022. (Requirements can be seen here).

Information about the fees, registration and logistics can be found at the ICCMSE 2022 official website: www.iccmse.org.

  

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

Researchers should think about professional ethics

Photo: LU Photo archive

In October 2021, the first ethics committee for sectoral groups was set up at the University of Latvia (LU). After that On 2022 of January Maris Zander had a conversation with the chairman of the LU Committee on Ethics for Life and Medicine Studies, associate professors of the University of Latvia and lead researcher of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, Signe Mezinska about, why researchers should think about professional ethics. Article is published in Latvian. Read more about the conversation they had in the winter number of the edition “Alma Mater”, 2022.

#PERSIST joins people and organizations worldwide in commemorating World Cancer Day on February 4. This day is dedicated to the courage and achievements of people living with cancer and calls for everyone to join in helping to save lives.

Learn more here.

  

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

How can new technologies better support patients?

Find the answer on February 23-24 where the #CS_AIW Cluster will hold its 4th Meeting of Minds - the first to be open to the public, as patients and survivors will be part of the audience.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3FXqsCn

  

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

Dr. Apinis and the audience get acquainted with the HYCOR project

Yesterday, January 24, ERDF project no. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035 Professor Marcis Leja, Head and Leading Researcher of “Hybrid-sensor breath analysis for colorectal cancer screening - HYCOR” was on channel TV24 broadcast “Dr.Apinis - What's New in Gastroenterology”.
During the show, Marcis Leja told about the latest scientific research in the field of gastroenterology, as well as introduced the listeners to the HYCOR study.
The recording of the show can be watched here: part one and  part two. *The recording of the show is available in Latvian.

 

© Screenshot from the “Dr.Apinis - What's New in Gastroenterology” on the 24.01.2022. (From left: LU Professor, Director of the Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the UL and Leading Researcher Mārcis Leja, Assistant Professor of the Department of Internal Medicine, RSU Vita Skuja, Head of the Clinic of RAKUS Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Aleksejs Derovs Peter Apinis.)

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035."

Project participants have submitted theses to the International Conference on Scientific Medicine

The International Scientific Medicine Conference of the University of Latvia will take place on March 25-26, 2022. Five participants of the project “Optimisation of H.pylori eradication therapy for population-based gastric cancer prevention” on the following topics have submitted theses to the conference, section of medicine and health science:

- “The Use of Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing for Detection of H. Pylori Pre- and Post-Eradication: Bioinformatics Feasibility Assessment”, autori Vangravs Reinis, Čivkulis Kristaps, Ļeonova Elīna, Dauss Edgars, Poļaka Inese, Sjomina Olga, Leja Mārcis;

- “Evaluation of Dietary Habits of Jekabpils Inhabitants: Adherence to Nordic Diet and Association With Helicobacter Pylori Infection”, autori Jurkevica Ineta, Daugule Ilva, Kojalo Ilona, Poļaka Inese, Paršutins Sergejs, Leja Mārcis, Šantare Daiga;

- “Addition of Saccharomyces Boulardii to Standard Triple Therapy in Eradication of H. pylori: Comparison of Adverse Events and Effectiveness”, autori Sjomina Olga, Suhorukova Jekaterina, Rūdule Aiga, Vangravs Reinis, Paršutins Sergejs, Poļaka Inese, Daugule Ilva, Stonāns Ilmārs, Park Jin Young, Leja Mārcis.

We invite you to follow the conference and find out what was found in the study!

 

The study is financed 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 first HYCOR project particiapnts are included

Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine of the University of Latvia in cooperation with the Latvian Oncology Center has started the clinical activities of the HYCOR project, ensuring the recruitment of colorectal cancer patients for the project.

Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of colorectal cancer are invited to participate in the study. Patients are provided with information about the study, its goals, and the opportunity to donate breath samples and tissue material obtained during the operation for the study. Currently, the project includes 21 study participants with colorectal cancer.

The project is funded by the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) 1.1.1.1. project "Practical Studies", 4th phase, project ID Nr. 1.1.1.1/20/A/035."

Abstract submission deadline for the 80th International Scientific Conference of the UL extended

The International Scientific Conference on Medicine is traditionally held at the Faculty of Medicine as part of the annual international scientific conference staged by the University of Latvia (UL), bringing in industry experts both from Latvia and from abroad. The UL Conference celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. The event begins every time with an academic plenary session. Afterwards, the conference work is organised in section meetings, including the field of medicine and health sciences.

The International Scientific Conference on Medicine activities will be held online on March 25-26, 2022. In efforts to foster the spirit of international collaboration, participation is free of charge. Certificates of attendance with credit points for further education will be awarded to participants of the event.

The abstracts should be submitted via the UL Conference platform, the deadline has been extended to Sunday, January 23. Every UL employee has their own profile on the website. Please find below the illustrative images of how to access the platform. For additional enquiries, please contact the organiser or send your question to the Department of Science.