Proceedings of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. Section B. Natural, Exact, and Applied Sciences. Feed

Beyond the Programme: What the XII Latvian Gastroenterology Congress Reveals About the Future of Gastroenterology

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Potential for Contactless Vital Sign Monitoring and Artificial Intelligence Applications in Crisis Situations

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Vital signs monitoring is essential for detecting medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, sleep disorders, and other physiological anomalies. It plays a critical role in civilian and military healthcare, offering the ability to analyse and predict adverse outcomes in diverse environments. This literature review explores recent advancements in contactless vital sign monitoring technologies, focusing on their applications, effectiveness, and integration in real-world medical scenarios. The review examines modern sensor technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in systems such as remote photoplethysmography (rPPG), thermal imaging, and radar-based monitoring. Emphasis is placed on machine learning-enhanced signal processing and the capacity of these technologies to operate without physical contact. Contactless systems enable real-time, long-term monitoring of patients without the need for direct human supervision. These systems have demonstrated significant potential in environments like emergency departments, mass casualty incidents, and home care, where they assist in patient sorting, early warning, and outcome prediction. When integrated with AI, these technologies reduce decision-making time, increase accuracy, and may prevent misdiagnosis. They are especially beneficial for solitary patients and overburdened healthcare workers. The integration of contactless vital sign monitoring systems with AI offers a promising future in healthcare. Such technologies can enhance clinical efficacy, improve patient safety, and potentially allow one healthcare professional to manage more patients effectively, raising effectiveness and economic productivity. As automation advances, these systems may become indispensable in reducing the workload and error rates associated with vital sign monitoring. Huge potential for use is possible in the Military Medicine and MASCAL-related environments, and further research is needed.

Problem of Gas Phase Flow in a Water-Saturated Porous Medium

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study is to develop efficient numerical methods for the solution of the fluid–fluid displacement problem in porous media, encountered in the development and exploitation of oil and gas reservoirs and in the construction and operation of underground gas storage in aquifers. At present, hydro-gas-dynamic simulations of underground gas storage facilities are performed using numerical methods that do not fully account for the actual physical properties of the porous reservoir, the gas, and the water, nor for the specific features of the displacement process. The same limitations apply to problems arising during the operation of gas reservoirs in contact with active edge-water aquifers. In this regard, there arises a need to develop efficient numerical methods for hydro-gas-dynamic simulations that take these factors into account, thus enabling a more accurate representation of the process. The numerical implementation of the algorithm is based on a finite difference scheme on a moving grid. The proposed difference–iterative method with moving grids can be employed to identify a rational reservoir stimulation strategy.

An Eight-Month Preliminary Analysis of Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) Proficiency Metrics in a Robotic Fellowship-Naïve Surgeon During a Pelvic Uro-Oncology Fellowship Training

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Structured, competency-based fellowships are essential for training in complex robotic surgery. This study analyses the initial learning curve of a robotic-fellowship-naïve surgical fellow performing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) within a high-volume, metrics-driven pelvic oncology fellowship, culminating in the milestone achievement of complete skin-to-skin independent performance.A prospective database of 68 consecutive RARP procedures (July 2025 – February 2026) was analysed. Primary endpoints were fellow participation as console surgeon, console time, and binary completion of 13 modular procedural phases. The phases were conceptually aligned with published modular training frameworks for RARP, comprising 12 phases adapted from established curricula plus a 13th phase representing complete skin-to-skin case performance. Secondary endpoints included clinical safety indicators (transfusion rate, length of stay, complications) and biochemical outcomes (postoperative prostate-specific antigen, PSA). Statistical analysis employed the Mann–Kendall test for trend analysis and Fisher’s exact test for association testing.The fellow participated in all 68 RARPs, acting as console surgeon under supervision in 48 cases (70.6%). Median fellow-specific console time was 32 minutes (IQR 20–45). A strong positive temporal trend was observed in the number of phases performed per case (Mann–Kendall τ = 0.61, p < 0.01). All 12 procedural phases were successfully completed by the fellow, with apical dissection first completed in case 57. The 13th phase — complete skin-to-skin RARP — was achieved in cases 67 and 68, with console times of 190 and 160 minutes, respectively, representing 100% of total operative console time. No patients required perioperative blood transfusion (0/68) or surgical drainage. One patient (Case 67, 1.5%) experienced a Clavien–Dindo grade II complication requiring postoperative antibiotics. A transurethral catheter was used in 67 cases, with one suprapubic catheter as part of an enhanced recovery protocol. 95.6% (65/68) of patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. The fellow participated in 17 RARP and 7 RARC extended pelvic lymphadenectomies (ePLND). Postoperative PSA data were available for 51 cases. Of these, 41 (80.4%) achieved an undetectable PSA (< 0.1 ng/ml), while 10 cases (19.6%) had detectable PSA ranging from 0.1 to 3.5 ng/ml. Final histo-pathology was available for 50 cases, revealing a positive surgical margin (PSM) rate of 40.0% (20/50). Among patients with both PSA and margin data available (n = 49), 39 (79.6%) had undetectable PSA, with 13 (33.3%) of these having a reported PSM. The Fisher’s exact test confirmed no significant association between PSA undetectability and margin status (p = 0.20).

Two-Year Monitoring of Ruderal Rapeseed Populations in Areas Potentially Contaminated with Genetically Modified Plants and Country-Wide Pollen Sample Screening for GMO Contamination in Latvia

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Latvia has documented cases of unintentional release of genetically modified plants (GMP), including contamination of rapeseed with GM varieties such as GT73. Due to significant import and export of rapeseed (over 120 thousand tons annually from 2020 to 2022), monitoring is essential to evaluate accidental GMP spread in the environment. Similar studies in Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Lithuania have been conducted to monitor GM rapeseed near processing plants, ports, and transport routes, generally finding minimal or no GM contamination in ruderal populations. By using bees as natural pollen collectors, pollen sampling serves as an indicator of GMO presence and spread while also providing insight into gene-flow risks within terrestrial ecosystems. Given Latvia’s recent detection of accidental GM rapeseed admixtures and limited annual testing, this study prioritised pollen analysis and monitoring of ruderal rapeseed plants. This study presents a comprehensive two-year monitoring effort of ruderal rapeseed populations in Latvia, focusing on potential contamination with GMPs near ports, railway cargo areas, and rape-seed processing factories. It also includes a nationwide screening of pollen samples to detect GMP presence, aiming to assess the environmental impact and spread of GMP in Latvia. None of the samples were considered to contain GMP screening elements.

Uric Acid Target Achievement and Factors Associated with Treatment Outcomes in Gout: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Rheumatology Centre

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Gout is a chronic inflammatory arthritis caused by monosodium urate crystal deposition. Despite the availability of urate-lowering therapy (ULT), many patients fail to achieve target uric acid levels, leading to poor disease control. This study assessed uric acid target attainment and associated factors among gout patients in Latvia. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 503 patients diagnosed with gout at the ORTO Clinic (2013–2025). Data included demographics, ULT type (allopurinol or febuxostat), frequency of rheumatologist visits, and laboratory parameters at diagnosis and in 2023–2025. The uric acid target was defined as < 360 μmol/l. Of 503 patients (93.2% men; mean age 51.6 years), 80.5% received allopurinol and 15.9% febuxostat. Only 22.5% achieved the target; 50.7% did not, and 26.8% had no recent uric acid testing. Target achievement was significantly associated with older age (p = 0.028), more frequent follow-up (p = 0.015), and higher vitamin D levels (p = 0.047). Uric acid correlated positively with LDL (r = 0.190) and total cholesterol (r = 0.200), and negatively with vitamin D (r = –0.193). Uric acid targets remain poorly achieved in routine practice. Improved patient monitoring, follow-up frequency, and attention to modifiable factors such as vitamin D status may enhance treatment outcomes.

Radionuclide and Chemical Contamination of the Environment as Factors of Increasing Mutational Variability of Organisms

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In the course of evolution, living organisms have adapted to constant contact with mutagenic factors, and the spontaneous mutations induced by them have served as the one of the most significant sources of new traits and properties. With the development of civilisation, wildlife, including humans, was exposed to contamination by mutagenic factors of man-made origin: natural and artificial radioisotopes, pollutants, and xenobiotics. The sources of their release into the environment are mineral processing, radioactive and chemical waste, nuclear weapons testing, accidents at nuclear facilities and chemical plants, and the use of xenobiotic pesticides. Increased activity of mutagenic factors in the environment leads to an increase in the frequency of mutations in plants, animals, and humans, an increase in the genetic burden, and a decrease in the adaptability of populations. Further ecological screening and genetic monitoring of hazardous areas should become a mandatory component of the preservation of natural ecosystems and scientifically sound placement of recreational areas, cultivated plants, and construction of residential, industrial, and livestock facilities to protect public health, flora, and fauna.

Internal Medicine: Different Disciplines: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mental Health, Neurology and Neuropharmacology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Internal Medicine: Cardiology, Endocrinology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Pathology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Internal Medicine: Gastroenterology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Surgery, Traumatology, and Orthopaedics: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Pharmaceutical Sciences: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Gynaecology and Obstetrics: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Oncology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Nursing and Dentistry: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Ophtalmology: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Paediatrics: International Scientific Conference on Medicine and Health Sciences of the University of Latvia, 2026

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT