Problems in evaluating the health impacts of radio frequency radiation
Ishai PB, Davis D, Taylor H, Birnbaum L. Problems in evaluating the health impacts of radio frequency radiation. Environmental Research. 2023. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115038.
Abstract
In
an effort to clarify the nature of causal evidence regarding the
potential impacts of RFR
[radio frequency radiation]
on biological systems, this paper relies on a well-established framework
for considering causation expanded from that of Bradford Hill, that
combines experimental and epidemiological evidence on carcinogenesis of
RFR. The Precautionary Principle, while not perfect, has been the
effective lodestone for establishing public policy to guard the safety
of the general public from potentially harmful materials, practices or
technologies. Yet, when considering the exposure of the public to
anthropogenic electromagnetic fields, especially those arising from
mobile communications and their infrastructure, it seems to be ignored.
The current exposure standards recommended by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) and International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP) consider only thermal effects (tissue heating) as
potentially harmful. However, there is mounting evidence of non-thermal
effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation in biological systems
and human populations. We review the latest literature on in vitro and in vivo
studies, on clinical studies on electromagnetic hypersensitivity, as
well as the epidemiological evidence for cancer due to the action of
mobile-based radiation exposure. We question whether the current
regulatory atmosphere truly serves the public good when considered in
terms of the Precautionary Principle and the principles for deducing
causation established by Bradford Hill. We conclude that there is
substantial scientific evidence that RFR causes cancer,
endocrinological, neurological and other adverse health effects. In
light of this evidence the primary mission of public bodies, such as the
FCC to protect public health has not been fulfilled. Rather, we find
that industry convenience is being prioritized and thereby subjecting
the public to avoidable risks.
Excerpts
The
perennial question of the biological impacts of Radio Frequency
Radiation (RFR) constitutes an especially challenging matter that has
come to the fore recently, in part driven by public concerns over the
introduction of 5G mobile communications. 5G Small Cell base stations
are permitted to be sited as close as 3 m [meters] from the ground in
proximity to homes, schools and offices in many locales in the US. In
the U.S. alone, the industry estimates that up to one million new
antennas will be required. 5G ranges broadly from 800 MHz to 100 GHz ...
It
is important to note that such dismissive studies presume that the sole
biological impact of RFR is a consequence of heating. This presumption
ignores a substantial body of independent studies finding that RFR
induces numerous adverse biochemical changes affecting the formation of
free radicals, the rates of cell growth and death, and cellular membrane
transport. These changes are widely reported in organisms as diverse as
plants, animals, and humans. Furthermore, the Directorate-General for
Parliamentary Research Services (Belpoggi, 2021) of the European Union,
and an independent Swiss government scientific advisory group (BERENIS)
reaches similar conclusions, adding that "EMF (Electromagnetic Fields)
are probably carcinogenic for humans, in particular related to gliomas
and acoustic neuromas." In addition, they add that "… … 450–6000 MHz:
these frequencies clearly affect male fertility and possibly female
fertility too. They may have adverse effects on the development of
embryos, fetuses and newborns". This indicates that EMF/RF functions
like a classic endocrine disruptor impairing both male and female
reproductive functions....
...
Recent experimental and epidemiological studies have added considerably
to the record and have led Miller et al., 2018 to conclude that on the
basis of evidence amassed as of 2018 RFR constitutes a class one proven
human carcinogen. Another more recent report concurred (Hardell and
Carlberg, 2020), as do the recent publications by Lin (2022b) and the (International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields
(ICBE-EMF), 2022). This paper builds further on those records and
provides an update on the science applying the principles for deducing a
causal relationship between RFR and cancer.
These
conclusions regarding the carcinogenic and other potential adverse
effects of RFR are not shared equally, with strong dissent provided by a
vocal number of industry-affiliated scientists (Foster et al., 2000,
2022; Grimes, 2021; Repacholi, 2010). While some that have questioned
the causal nature of the relationship may be well-meaning, a
disproportionate number of those who discount the data are in the direct
or indirect employ of the affected telecom industries. As a result, the
ability to carry out independent analysis of the matter remains
hampered, fueled in no small part by the genuine complexity of the topic
and by a well-organized effort to 'manufacture doubt' (Alster, 2015;
Weller et al., 2022).
Given
the unprecedented and exponentially rising growth in worldwide
exposures to this technology, the lack of a vibrant well-funded program
of training and research constitutes a major problem. Since the 1990s,
panels of government and other experts have repeatedly examined the
scientific evidence, found it wanting and called for more research to be
conducted. Although the call for further research constitutes the one
matter on which all are agreed, funding for this work remains quite
limited. Thus, the principal output of such inquiries is to recommend
research but has not resulted in major ongoing funding for such
research. By the end of the 1990s, Motorola had closed its world class
bioelectromagnetics laboratory. The U.S. government programs on the
subject were defunded by Congress at the same time. Thus, on this matter
the absence of evidence is not proof of safety. Rather it is an
indication of the intense struggle that has led to a lack of funding
with respect to critical research questions, the failure to monitor
human and environmental health impacts, and the ongoing manufacturing of
doubt that has been documented by a number of experts (Davis, 2010)....
To
clarify the matter, this four-part review evaluates the epistemological
foundations for concluding that RFR is carcinogenic in animals and
humans. First, we explore possible mechanisms of action underlying
biological impacts of non-ionizing RFR. Then we assess recent key
experimental findings including detailed reports from the genetic
toxicology component of the National Toxicology Program (NTP) study (M.
Wyde et al., 2018). We also evaluate evidence from evaluations of
exposed human populations obtained through case-control and
population-based studies. Finally, we consider the weight of evidence
that RFR constitutes a carcinogen and also promotes other negative
health effects....
Conclusion
There
is a plethora of both experimental and epidemiological evidence
establishing a causal relationship between EMF and cancer and other
adverse health effects including adverse effects on fetal development
and the endocrine system. Increases in biochemical alterations such as
DNA damage, increased production of free radicals and other signals
found to be predictive of cancer and other degenerative diseases have
been clearly demonstrated. While the evidence is not consistent, the
reasons for that inconsistency merit independent review and assessment. A
number of industry-affiliated scientists have offered criticisms that
are subject to bias, as we have outlined here. If progress is to be made
in improving the public understanding of this complicated issue, it is
imperative to insist on a complete picture of the evidence that relies
on independent science.
While we may disagree strongly with the
conclusions some critics have provided, we concur wholeheartedly that
there is a need for a serious concerted program of research. No such
program exists with support from National governments in the United
States and Canada. The job of the government is to ensure the protection
of Public Health. We earnestly hope that as the situation evolves,
those in positions to create the training and funding for major
interdisciplinary research programs in engineering, medicine,
toxicology, and bioelectromagnetics will do so. In the meantime, we add
our voices to those of more than four hundred experts in the field
calling for discussion of a moratorium on 5G. Without such a program we
are effectively conducting an uncontrolled experiment on ourselves, our
families, and our children.
Indeed, the subject of RFR and
carcinogenicity remains truly complex. Studies have to simulate
intricate exposures that are taking place every day to billions of
people around the world. Given the ubiquity of the technology, as we
move ahead it will not be possible to find an unexposed control group in
the modern world. The inarguable intricacy of the technology can easily
become a way of confusing rather than clarifying the matter. The
subject of the impact of RFR on human health is one of the most
important topics of our age. It is one in which the general public seeks
clear answers to a collective, but poorly defined angst. It is the job
of experts to present the state of knowledge in clear and concise
language that the layman can understand. The numerous omissions and
distortions in recent articles originating from the industry perspective
do not meet this criteria. The medical and public health communities
deserve the whole story, no matter how complicated or unpalatable it may
be. There is an abundance of evidence pointed towards deleterious
effects of RFR exposure on human health. Further, the growing
applications of low levels of RF in medicine through electroceuticals
constitutes evidence per se of biological impacts (Mishra, 2017). Any
agent that can be beneficial, whether aspirin or oncology drugs, can
also have negative impacts. Consequently, it is imperative to insist on a
complete picture of the evidence and not the whitewashed or distorted
version currently promoted. The need to take into account the complete
weight of the evidence in devising regulatory policies is widely ignored
to our detriment. It is time that the Precautionary Principle be
applied to RFR.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935122023659
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Special issue editorial: In vivo experimental studies of prenatal and
neonatal exposures to EMF provide grounds for epidemiological
surveillance and precaution
Kaplan S, Davis DL, Steinbusch HWM. Special issue editorial: In vivo experimental studies of prenatal and neonatal exposures to EMF provide grounds for epidemiological surveillance and precaution. J Chem Neuroanat. 2023 Feb 1;129:102238. doi: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102238.
No abstract
Excerpt
The widespread use of wireless communication tools such as
mobile phones and their effects on human health requires serious
investigation. Since cell phones are employed in close proximity to the
brain and body, the impact of exposure to different frequencies of EMF
on the central nervous system also requires careful evaluation. This
special issue provides an in-depth look at the effects of different
frequencies of EMF emitted from mobile phones on the brain. The findings
can be regarded as preliminary indications of a wide range of potential
neurological problems that may be expected to increase in the near
future, extending from behavioral issues to autism and other more
serious neuronal disturbances.
We hope that this
special issue, which covers the effects of EMF exposure on the nervous
system and neurodevelopmental processes, will encourage researchers to
conduct epidemiological studies on human subjects. In the meantime, we
concur with those researchers that conclude that current experimental
evidence provides grounds for reducing human exposures to wireless
radiation, especially for the young, pregnant woman and men who wish to
father healthy children.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36736746
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Development of the Microwave Syndrome in Two Men Shortly after Installation of 5G on the Roof above their Office
Nilsson M, Hardell L. Development of the Microwave Syndrome in Two Men Shortly after Installation of 5G on the Roof above their Office. Ann Clin Case Rep. 2023; 8: 2378.
Abstract
The 5th generation, 5G, for wireless communication is
rolled out without previous studies on potential effects on human
health and the environment. In this case study we describe two men, case
1 and case 2, working in three office rooms close to base stations.
After the deployment of 5G, both men developed symptoms typical for the
microwave syndrome, e.g., headache, tinnitus, dizziness, balance
disorder, concentration and attention deficiency, and fatigue.
Radiofrequency Radiation (RFR) after the 5G deployment was measured in
the three offices. In office one maximum (peak) RFR during one minute
varied from 463 to 1,180,000 μW/m2, in office two from 6,230 to 501,000
and in office three from 13,700 to 613,000 μW/m2. The symptoms
disappeared in both men within a couple of weeks (case 1) or immediately
(case 2) after leaving the office for other offices with much lower
maximum peak RFR emissions, maximum for case 1 =16 and for case 2 =2,920
μW/m2. This case report may be regarded as a provocation study on
health from 5G RFR. The clinical picture in both men was clearly related
to the exposure, although the exposures were well below the guidelines
recommended by ICNIRP that are claimed to protect against all health
effects. We conclude that the guidelines for RFR exposure based only on
tissue heating by ICNIRP are inadequate to protect human health and that
5G appears to provoke symptoms of microwave syndrome in previously
healthy people.
Open access paper: https://www.anncaserep.com/abstract.php?aid=9589
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Overview of the Evaluation Methods for the Maximum EMF Exposure in 5G Networks
Fellan A, Schotten HD. Overview of the Evaluation Methods for the Maximum EMF Exposure in 5G Networks. 2022 IEEE Conference on Standards for Communications and Networking (CSCN), Thessaloniki, Greece, 2022, pp. 53-57, doi: 10.1109/CSCN57023.2022.10050915.
Abstract
Instantaneous measurements of the electromagnetic field (EMF) strength do not reflect the maximum exposure levels possible in a given location. An extrapolation factor needs to be applied to the measurements before comparing them against the local exposure guidelines or recommendations for compliance evaluation. For the fifth generation (5G) networks, a standardized approach for extrapolating EMF values is yet to be defined. This work provides an overview of the state-of-the-art research that focuses on estimating the maximum EMF exposure caused by radiation from 5G base stations. It also considers current efforts by national and international organizations to establish standardized methods for extrapolating the EMF measurements which is necessary in investigating conformance with the EMF guidelines and regulations.
Conclusions
In this work, we provided a short review of current research on the
extrapolation of 5G NR EMF measurements to the maximum EMF exposure
values; a necessary step to ensure the compliance of 5G NR BSs with the
EMF exposure limits and guidelines, set by organizations such as the
ICNIRP or the responsible national regulatory authorities, that are
intended to protect humans and the environment. We classified the
research efforts based on the measurement method used in the two main
categories of frequency-selective and code-selective methods. We also
summarized some of the national and international standardization
endeavours that aim to set a reference method for evaluating the human
EMF exposure taking into consideration the recent 5G technology. We plan
to use this overview as a foundation for choosing the appropriate
measurement methodology and EMF extrapolation method to assess our
recently deployed 5G campus network in Kaiser-slautern [9].
https://ieeexplore-ieee-org.libproxy.berkeley.edu/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=10050915&isnumber=10050893
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Occupational Exposure to Nonionizing Radiation and Risk for Malignancy in Young Adults
Shapira S, Nitecki M, Tzur D, Schwartz N, Silverman BG, Zack O, Friedensohn-Zuck L. Occupational Exposure to Nonionizing Radiation and Risk for Malignancy in Young Adults. Military Medicine, 2023. doi: 10.1093/milmed/usad020.
Abstract
Introduction Nonionizing
radiation (NIR) is considered "possibly carcinogenic to humans," and
therefore, exposure of young military personnel raises concerns
regarding increased risk for cancer. The aim of our study was to compare
the cancer incidence in exposed and nonexposed populations in order to
gain better understanding of their risk.
Materials and Methods A
longitudinal retrospective cohort study, between 2009 and 2018, was
conducted. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) aerial defense units service
members, with NIR exposure (range of 2-300 GHz, below the International
Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection guidelines), were
compared with a similar sociodemographic group of service members
without NIR exposure. Both groups were followed for cancer incidence
(all-cause and specific malignancies). Kaplan–Meier analysis of
cancer-free survival and univariate and multivariable logistic
regressions for possible confounders and risk factors were performed.
This analysis was repeated on a matched 1:1 control group.
Results Exposure
and comparison groups included 3,825 and 11,049 individuals,
respectively. Forty-one cases diagnosed with cancer were identified
during the follow-up time (mean 4.8 [±2.7] years), 13 (0.34%) of which
were reported in the exposure group, and 28 (0.25%) were reported in the
comparison group. The odds ratio (OR) for cancer incidence in the
exposure vs. control groups was 1.34 (95%CI, 0.70-2.60), P-value = 0.3807.
The results remained unchanged after adjustment for sex, age at
enrollment, service length, socioeconomic status, and military
occupation (adjOR = 1.38 [95%CI, 0.67-2.82], P = 0.3818).
Conclusions Our
study did not find an increased short-term risk for cancer in young
adults exposed to NIR radiation as compared with unexposed young adults.
Excerpts
A trend toward a higher rate of hematological and testicular malignancies was reported, albeit was statistically insignificant.
The main shortcoming of most epidemiological data, both in the military
and in mobile communication risk assessment, is a lack of a personal
exposure dose measurement....
Another limitation is the relatively short follow-up period (a median of
4.4 years in the exposed group), which may be insufficient to diagnose
some types of malignancies, although following our population for over
17,710 person years. Considering the rarity of cancer diagnosis in young
adults, this study might have been underpowered to detect the effect of
NIR because of an overall small number of cases despite the large
cohort.
In this study, occupational exposure to NIR radiation did not increase
the risk for cancer in young adults during the 9-year follow-up, as
compared with unexposed individuals. Constant regulation of exposures by
the IDF Occupational Health Administration as well as epidemiological
surveillance is important for monitoring and reassessing possible health
effects of modern radar systems.
https://academic.oup.com/milmed/advance-article/doi/10.1093/milmed/usad020/7025337
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Effect of Mobile Phone use on Hearing in Young Adults: An Observational Study
Sharma D, Chauhan A, Thakur S. Effect of Mobile Phone use on Hearing in Young Adults: An Observational Study. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022 Dec;74(Suppl 3):3754-3757. doi: 10.1007/s12070-021-02523-x.
Abstract
There are concerns regarding the health effects of electromagnetic
fields (EMFs) generated by mobile phones. There are apprehensions
regarding the effect of these radiations on auditory system. The
objective of this study was to find the effect of mobile phone on
hearing in young adults. We studied 75 medical students who were mobile
phone users for >1 year. Initial hearing status of subjects was
assessed by Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA), Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) and
Brainstem evoked response audiometry (BERA) at the time of enrollment in
the study and repeat audiological assessment was conducted at 6 months
and again at one year and comparison was done. The mean age of the
population was 20.13 + 1.33 years. Right, left and no particular
preference for any ear was seen in 74.7%, 16% and 9.3%, respectively.
Mean PTA at baseline in right ear at baseline, 6 months and 1 year was
12.71 ± 3.51 dB, 13.73 ± 3.69 dB and 14.07 ± 3.25 dB (p value=0.120), respectively and the same values for left ear were 13.28±3.57, 14.32±3.10 and 14.24±3.20 (p =
0.170) at baseline, 6 months and 1 year. No statistically significant
difference in hearing thresholds was seen at baseline and at subsequent
follow-ups and between dominant ear and non-dominant ear on BERA and
OAE. We did not find any short term effect of mobile phones on the
hearing in young adults, however, long term effect on hearing with
progressing age cannot be ruled out.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36742690/
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Association of Autonomic Balance With Phone Call Duration in Healthy Individuals
Gangwar V, Gupta S, Verma M, Singh AK, John N, Jasrotia RB, Singh A. Association of Autonomic Balance With Phone Call Duration in Healthy Individuals. Cureus. 2023 Jan 9;15(1):e33566. doi: 10.7759/cureus.33566.
Abstract
Background This study aimed to estimate the association of autonomic
balance with the duration of phone calls in healthy individuals.
Methodology A total of 30 subjects aged between 18 and 30 years without
any established systemic disease and using mobile phones for more than
five years with minimum daily usage of 30 minutes were included in this
analytical study. Heart rate variability (HRV) was recorded using a
three-channel physiograph (AD Instruments South Asia (India) Pvt. Ltd.,
New Delhi, India) with the software LabChart PROV8.1.8 with HRV Module
version 2.0.3 for 10 minutes. Time domain parameters were recorded in
terms of the standard deviation of normal to normal interval (SDNN),
root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats
(RMSSD), R-R intervals greater than 50 ms (pRR50), and mean heart rate
(MHR), and frequency domain parameters were total power, low-frequency
power (LF), high-frequency power (HF), and the ratio of low-frequency to
high-frequency power (LF/HF). HRV was recorded three times in each
subject that included baseline HRV, HRV during the use of a mobile
phone, and HRV after the use of a mobile phone.
Results A total of 30
subjects (14 males and 16 females) participated in this study. The mean
age of participants was 31.93 ± 8.59 years (32.07 ± 9.87 years for
males, and 31.81 ± 7.64 years for females). There were no findings of
significant arrhythmia in any of the participants. There was a
significant difference in pRR50 on comparing all three phases (p =
0.036). However, there was no significant variation in other parameters
such as very low frequency (VLF, ms2), VLF (%), LF (ms2), LF (%), HF (ms2),
HF (%), LF/HF, SDNN (ms), RMSSD (ms), Poincare plot standard deviation
perpendicular to the line of identity (ms), Poincare plot standard
deviation along the line of identity (ms), systolic blood pressure
(mmHg), and diabolic blood pressure (mmHg) during, before, and after
exposure to mobile phone calls. There was no significant difference in
the value of all parameters between males and females (p < 0.05).
Conclusions Mobile phone calls may influence HRV and autonomic balance.
This change may be affected by the electromagnetic field and by speaking
as well.
Open access paper: https://www.cureus.com/articles/129516-association-of-autonomic-balance-with-phone-call-duration-in-healthy-individuals#!/
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Joint Uplink and Downlink EMF Exposure: Performance Analysis and Design
Insights
Chen L, Elzanaty A, Kishk MA, Chiaraviglio L, Alouini M -S. Joint Uplink and Downlink EMF Exposure: Performance Analysis and Design Insights. IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications. 2023. doi: 10.1109/TWC.2023.3244155.
Abstract
Installing more base stations (BSs) into the existing cellular
infrastructure is an essential way to provide greater network capacity
and higher data rates in the 5th-generation cellular networks (5G).
However, a non-negligible amount of the population is concerned that
such network densification will generate a notable increase in exposure
to electric and magnetic fields (EMF) over the territory. In this paper,
we analyze the downlink, uplink, and joint downlink&uplink exposure
induced by the radiation from BSs and personal user equipment (UE),
respectively, in terms of the received power density and exposure index.
In our analysis, we consider the EMF restrictions set by the regulatory
authorities such as the minimum distance between restricted areas
(e.g., schools and hospitals) and BSs, and the maximum permitted
exposure. Exploiting tools from stochastic geometry, mathematical
expressions for the coverage probability and statistical EMF exposure
are derived and validated. Tuning the system parameters such as the BS
density and the minimum distance from a BS to restricted areas, we show a
trade-off between reducing the population's exposure to EMF and
enhancing the network coverage performance. Then, we formulate
optimization problems to maximize the performance of the EMF-aware
cellular network while ensuring that the EMF exposure complies with the
standard regulation limits with high probability. For instance, the
exposure from BSs is two orders of magnitude less than the maximum
permissible level when the density of BSs is less than 20 BSs/km2.
Excerpt
In Fig. 16, when R < 100 m, the total exposure is mainly from the BSs in downlink but when R ≥ 100 m, downlink exposure is gradually decreasing and uplink exposure becomes dominant. Namely, there exists an optimal value, e.g., R∗ = 100 m, that minimizes the total exposure for the network with λb = 10−4.5 BSs/m2.
Conclusions
This paper integrated the EMF restrictions on the coverage performance and exposure analysis and formulated optimization problems on how to design the EMF-aware cellular networks. Particularly, the distribution of BSs was generated by a 13 PHP, accounting for the distance between BSs and restricted areas where the presence of BSs is prohibited. Using tools of stochastic geometry, we analyzed the radiation and coverage probability in terms of downlink and uplink. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of system parameters on the joint downlink&uplink radiation from both BSs and UE through EI. With the aid of numerical results, we showed that even the conservative evaluation of the 95-th percentile of EMF exposure level can still comply with the international guidelines, and the exposure in more typical settings is far below the maximum permissible level. It can also be seen that increasing the baseline density of BSs or decreasing the permitted distance around restricted areas can reduce the exposure from mobile equipment in uplink while exacerbating the exposure from BSs in downlink. Such opposite trend demonstrated the reasonability of taking joint downlink&uplink exposure into account when designing the system parameters for the EMF- aware cellular network. We found that there exists optimal values of the distance between restricted areas and BSs and the baseline density of BSs that minimizes the total exposure under a certain network configuration.
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10047969
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Investigation of
Microwave Electromagnetic Fields in Open and Shielded Areas and Their
Possible Effects on Biological Structure
Vaverka F, Smetana M, Gombarska D, Psenakova Z. Investigation of
Microwave Electromagnetic Fields in Open and Shielded Areas and Their
Possible Effects on Biological Structure. Sensors (Basel). 2023 Feb
20;23(4):2351. doi: 10.3390/s23042351.
Abstract
The article's subject is the investigation of electromagnetic fields (EMF) of the microwave frequency band in a typical human living environment, especially in shielded areas. The point of view of electromagnetic field presence in the environment with the rapid increase in the level of the electromagnetic background is currently an essential point concerning population protection against the potential adverse effects of such EMFs. The authors focus on actual measurements, especially in shielded spaces frequently used in everyday life, such as elevator cabins and cars. The goal is a quantitative evaluation of the distribution of specific vector quantities of the EM field and a comparison with the currently valid hygiene standards. Measured values in shielded spaces show elevated levels in contrast to the open space. However, the values do not exceed limits set by considering the thermal effect on living tissues.
Conclusions
This article dealt with the measurements of the EM field in the microwave frequency band in shielded areas. A dipole antenna was used to perform the experiments, while a discone antenna was also used to verify the measurement results and calibrate the instruments. The assessment of the degree of possible EMF influence in the microwave band was carried out given the current legislation in force in the EU. Hygienic limits set maximum permissible EMF values, converted to given tissue parameters, but they do not include situations where EMF sources are in a shielded environment (for example, underground parking garages, garages, cellars, personal elevators, etc.). This study showed that the values are significantly elevated in the premises in question. At the same time, under certain circumstances (for example, several people talking on the phone in an elevator simultaneously, etc.) it can potentially affect the proper function of various implantable electronic devices (pacemaker, insulin pump, etc.) [13,18,21].
Measurements in shielded spaces such as elevators and car cabins show the raised values of RF fields when using communication devices, even car-embedded hands-free. It is recommended to avoid using the phone in a shielded environment or vehicles. The effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields depend on the human health constitution and qualification.
The directives and standards limiting the exposure of EMF are electric field strength limits for the frequency range up to 1800 MHz for "Public" 58 V/m and "Occupational" 127 V/m and for the frequency range up to 2100 MHz for "Public" 61 V/m and "Occupational" 137 V/m. The electric field strength in shielded space is much lower in our measurements than in exposure limits. Nevertheless, it is advisable to approach the use of mobile devices, especially in shielded areas, with caution.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/4/2351
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Radiofrequency Exposure Levels in Greece
Tyrakis C, Theodorou K, Kiouvrekis Y, Alexias A, Kappas C. Radiofrequency Exposure Levels in Greece. Bioelectromagnetics. 2023 Feb 14. doi: 10.1002/bem.22434.
Abstract
Medical Physics Department (Medical School, University of Thessaly)
participated in a Greek National EMF research program (EDBM34) with the
scope to measure and evaluate radiofrequency (RF) exposure (27-3000 MHz)
in areas of sensitive land use. A thousand (1000) measurements were
carried out at two "metropolitan locations" (Athens and Thessaloniki:
624 points) and several rest urban/rural locations (376 points). SRM
3006 spectrum analyzer manufactured by Narda Safety Test Solutions was
used. The broadband mean electric field in metropolitan areas was 0.41
V/m, while in the rest of Greece was 0.36 V/m. In metropolitan areas,
the predominant RF source was the TV and Radio FM signals (36.2% mean
contribution to the total RF exposure level). In the rest areas, the
predominant source was the systems of the meteorological and
military/defensive service (31.1%). The mobile sector contributed 14.9%
in metropolitan areas versus 12.2% in the rest of Greece. The
predominant mobile source was 900 MHz in both cases (4.5% in
metropolitan areas vs. 3.3% in the rest of Greece). The total exposure
from all RF sources complied with the International Commission on
Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) 2020 safety guidelines
[ICNIRP, 2020]. The maximum exposure level was 0.129% of the limit for
the metropolitan areas vs. 0.110% for the rest of Greece. Nonremarkable
differences between metropolitan areas' exposure and the rest of Greece.
In most cases, new 5 G antennas will be added to the existing base
stations. Thus, the total exposure may be increased, leading to higher
safety distances.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36786436/
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Effects of generalization descriptions on risk perception
Freudenstein F, Boerner F, Croft RJ, Leung RWS, Loughran SP, Wiedemann
PM. Effects of generalization descriptions on risk perception. Environ
Res. 2023 Feb 2:115422. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115422.
Abstract
The study addresses the effects of generalization descriptions on
risk perceptions. In a 1-factorial online experiment, 629 participants
were randomly allocated to one of three groups. Group G1 received an
excerpt of an original press release from the International Agency for
Research on Cancer (IARC) regarding mobile phones and cancer,
classifying RF EMF as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Group G2 received
an additional explanatory text module, and Group G3 received a
rewritten text, with both G2 and G3 highlighting that the possible
cancer risk only refers to mobile phones. Risk perceptions regarding
cell phones and related personal devices, base stations, and high
voltage power lines were used as dependent variables measured before and
after text reading. Further, the degree to which participants
generalized from cell phone-related to other RF EMF exposures was
assessed to determine whether this was predictive of their post-text
risk perceptions. Regarding risk perceptions, no differences between the
three groups were observed after reading the presented texts. Instead,
all three experimental groups indicated increased risk perceptions for
all electromagnetic field sources. However, we found significant
differences according to the prevailing risk generalization belief.
Respondents expressing a strong risk generalization belief showed
significantly higher risk perceptions for all tested EMF sources (except
mobile phones) than subjects with a weak risk generalization belief.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36738768
Highlights- • The study investigated how different description formats regarding potential health effects influence risk perception.
- • Further the role of respondents' risk generalization beliefs was investigated.
- • The example of risk communication on electromagnetic fields (EMF) was used in an experimental setup.
- • The study results indicate that all description formats elevated respondents' risk perception.
- • It is also shown that a strong risk generalization belief leads to higher risk perceptions for all tested EMF sources.
ConclusionOur findings point to the usefulness of Reyna's fuzzy trace theory for risk communication research (Reyna, 2021a, 2021b).
This is because information does not equal knowledge. Studies analyzing
effects of different information provision, such as in our study,
cannot assume that the same information leads to the same knowledge and
that different information leads to different knowledge. Therefore, it
makes sense to consider manipulation checks that are common in
psychological experiments from a theoretically perspective. Risk
communication research would benefit from considering how information is
interpreted and which mental representations are formed is essential
when it comes to relevant risk communication.
The
mental representation of given risk information, particularly the risk
generalization belief, is critical for risk perception. These beliefs
determine the risk perception of a group of associated exposure sources,
in our case, mobile communication devices. Therefore, the risk
generalization belief is a significant component of intuitive risk
appraisal that should have a place in risk perception studies.
Furthermore, we would like to underline that risk assessors should pay
attention to indicate the scope of their risk evaluations, i.e., under
which conditions and for which exposure sources they are valid. In
addition, risk communicators should be aware of people's tendency
towards risk generalization, and further research should explore how to
correct generalization biases.
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Genotoxic Risks to Male Reproductive Health from Radiofrequency Radiation (Review)
Kaur P, Rai U, Singh R. Genotoxic Risks to Male Reproductive Health from Radiofrequency Radiation. Cells. 2023; 12(4):594.
https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12040594.
Abstract
During modern era, mobile phones, televisions, microwaves, radio, and
wireless devices, etc., have become an integral part of our daily
lifestyle. All these technologies employ radiofrequency (RF) waves and
everyone is exposed to them, since they are widespread in the
environment. The increasing risk of male infertility is a growing
concern to the human population. Excessive and long-term exposure to
non-ionizing radiation may cause genetic health effects on the male
reproductive system which could be a primitive factor to induce cancer
risk. With respect to the concerned aspect, many possible RFR induced
genotoxic studies have been reported; however, reports are very
contradictory and showed the possible effect on humans and animals.
Thus, the present review is focusing on the genomic impact of the
radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) underlying the male
infertility issue. In this review, both in vitro and in vivo studies
have been incorporated explaining the role of RFR on the male
reproductive system. It includes RFR induced-DNA damage, micronuclei
formation, chromosomal aberrations, SCE generation, etc. In addition,
attention has also been paid to the ROS generation after radiofrequency
radiation exposure showing a rise in oxidative stress, base adduct
formation, sperm head DNA damage, or cross-linking problems between DNA
& protein.
Conclusions
The
present review reveals a better understanding of the genotoxic effects
of radiofrequency radiation on male reproductive health emitted from
mobile phones, laptops, microwaves, wireless networks, etc. The study
focused on different endpoints such as DNA damage, micronuclei formation
and genomic instability, SCE & chromosomal aberrations covering
both in vitro and in vivo parameters. The available information
following in vitro and in vivo exposure shows that all the yielded data
has both positive and negative results. In this review, studies reported
DNA fragmentation, apoptosis, and elevated protein expression in both
human and animal spermatozoa, concluding a decrease in viability,
mitochondrial genomic destruction and DNA strand breaks. Further
micronuclei formation, SCE and chromosomal aberrations are also found to
cause abnormalities, leading to the accumulation of mutations and hence
causing cancer risk. While controversial investigation, on the other
hand, supported with no effect on cellular apoptosis or DNA integrity.
Our present study reviewed that RFR has insufficient energy production
to generate genomic damage. Yet, such effects were probably found to be
responsible for male infertility due to the indirect mechanism of
oxidative stress via ROS generation in the exposed system. Few studies
also suggested that the damage due to the cumulative effect of repeated
exposure varies with physical parameters such as distance from the
radiation source, short-term or long-term exposure duration, penetration
depth, and frequency of exposure. Therefore, considering all data
together, the present review supports the capability of radiofrequency
radiation to induce genotoxicity underlying male infertility keeping
some limitations in mind, since the report is a conclusion of narrative
study and limited literature were found explaining the actual mechanism
of micronuclei formation, sister chromatid exchange, chromosomal
aberration and genomic instability. Hence, more studies are needed to
elucidate the DNA damage mechanism with more robust study designs
favoring potential genotoxic effects of RFR on male reproductive health.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/12/4/594
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Exposure to Low Levels of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Emitted
from Cell-phones as a Promising Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: A
Scoping Review Study
Shirbandi K, Khalafi M, J Bevelacqua J, Sadeghian N, Adiban S, Bahaeddini Zarandi F, Mortazavi SA, Mortazavi SH, Mortazavi SMJ, S Welsh J. Exposure to Low Levels of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Emitted from Cell-phones as a Promising Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: A Scoping Review Study. J Biomed Phys Eng. 2023 Feb 1;13(1):3-16. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2109-1398.
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most significant public health concerns and tremendous economic challenges. Studies conducted over the past decades show that exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) may relieve AD symptoms.
Objective: To determine if exposure to RF-EMFs emitted by cellphones affect the risk of AD.
Material and methods: In this review, all relevant published articles reporting an association of cell phone use with AD were studied. We systematically searched international datasets to identify relevant studies. Finally, 33 studies were included in the review. Our review discusses the effects of RF-EMFs on the amyloid β (Aβ), oxidative stress, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS), neuronal death, and astrocyte responses. Moreover, the role of exposure parameters, including the type of exposure, its duration, and specific absorption rate (SAR), are discussed.
Results: Progressive factors of AD such as Aβ, myelin basic protein (MBP),
nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, and
neurofilament light polypeptide (NFL) were decreased. While tau protein
showed no change, factors affecting brain activity such as glial
fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), mitogen-activated protein kinases
(MAPKs), cerebral blood flow (CBF), brain temperature, and neuronal
activity were increased.
Conclusion: Exposure to low levels of RF-EMFs can reduce the risk of AD by increasing MAPK and GFAP and decreasing MBP. Considering the role of apoptosis in AD and the effect of RF-EMF on the progression of the process, this review indicates the positive effect of these exposures.
Conclusion Studies included in this review show that exposure to RF-EMFs act as a double-edged sword. While the findings of some studies indicate a reduced incidence of AD, other studies show an acceleration of the course of the disease. We believe that parameters such as the level of exposure (e.g., specific absorption rate, exposure duration, cumulative exposure, etc.) can determine if the response to RF-EMFs will prove beneficial or detrimental. A future research effort should be conducted to determine if there is an optimum range of SAR values or radio frequency ranges that affect AD either positively or negatively. Moreover, it is crucial to determine how the animal data can be translated into human effects. Therefore, further studies in this field are clearly warranted.
Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/article_48598.html
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Neuroendocrine System Adaptation during Consecutive Extrinsic Stimuli: A Pilot Dynamic Study
Geronikolou SA, Vasdekis V, Mantzou A, Davos C, Cokkinos DV, Chrousos GP. Neuroendocrine System Adaptation during Consecutive Extrinsic Stimuli: A Pilot Dynamic Study. Children (Basel). 2023 Jan 30;10(2):248. doi: 10.3390/children10020248.
Abstract
This pilot repeated measures study aims to evaluate
the dynamics of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), the
hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and/or their interplay with
low-level inflammation in healthy schoolchildren during consecutive
extrinsic stimuli. Twenty healthy schoolchildren and adolescents aged
11–14 years (12.5 ± 1.5) were consecutively exposed to an oral task (#2)
and an arithmetic task (#3) (Trier Social Stress Test for Children
(TSST-C)), lasting 5 min each, and a three-minute cellular phone call
(#4). Salivary cortisol (SC) was sampled at baseline (#1) and
immediately after each exposure (#2, 3, and 4). Baseline serum
high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and cortisol levels were
also assessed. ANS dynamics and complexity were measured using Sample
Entropy (SampEn) at each experimental time period (#1–4). Baseline serum
hCRP and cortisol correlated negatively to each other, while the ANS
and HPA axis acute reactions to the three consecutive stimuli differed
over time. The ANS adaptation to these stimuli included complexity
modulation, which was not dependent on baseline hsCRP or cortisol, and
weakened during the third stimulation. However, baseline hsCRP and
cortisol had a weakening and an increasing effect on the HPA axis over
time, respectively. We conclude that low-level inflammation and baseline
morning cortisol level have no effect on ANS dynamics but influence the
HPA axis response to consecutive external stimuli.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/10/2/248
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The Importance of Subcellular Structures to the Modeling of Biological
Cells in the Context of Computational Bioelectromagnetics Simulations
Jerbic K, Svejda JT, Sievert B, Rennings A, Fröhlich J, Erni D. The Importance of Subcellular Structures to the Modeling of Biological Cells in the Context of Computational Bioelectromagnetics Simulations. Bioelectromagnetics. 2023;10.1002/bem.22436. doi:10.1002/bem.22436
Abstract
Numerical investigation of the interaction of electromagnetic fields with eukaryotic cells requires specifically adapted computer models. Virtual microdosimetry, used to investigate exposure, requires volumetric cell models, which are numerically challenging. For this reason, a method is presented here to determine the current and volumetric loss densities occurring in single cells and their distinct compartments in a spatially accurate manner as a first step toward multicellular models within the microstructure of tissue layers. To achieve this, 3D models of the electromagnetic exposure of generic eukaryotic cells of different shape (i.e. spherical and ellipsoidal) and internal complexity (i.e. different organelles) are performed in a virtual, finite element method-based capacitor experiment in the frequency range from 10 Hz to 100 GHz. In this context, the spectral response of the current and loss distribution within the cell compartments is investigated and any effects that occur are attributed either to the dispersive material properties of these compartments or to the geometric characteristics of the cell model investigated in each case. In these investigations, the cell is represented as an anisotropic body with an internal distributed membrane system of low conductivity that mimics the endoplasmic reticulum in a simplified manner. This will be used to determine which details of the cell interior need to be modeled, how the electric field and the current density will be distributed in this region, and where the electromagnetic energy is absorbed in the microstructure regarding electromagnetic microdosimetry. Results show that for 5 G frequencies, membranes make a significant contribution to the absorption losses.
Open access paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bem.22436
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Changes in cognitive function, synaptic structure and protein expression
after long-term exposure to 2.856 and 9.375 GHz microwaves
Wang H, Liu Y, Sun Y, Dong J, Xu X, Wang H, Zhao X, Zhang J, Yao B, Zhao L, Liu S, Peng R. Changes in cognitive function, synaptic structure and protein expression after long-term exposure to 2.856 and 9.375 GHz microwaves. Cell Commun Signal. 2023 Feb 13;21(1):34. doi: 10.1186/s12964-022-01011-1.
Abstract
Health hazards from long-term exposure to microwaves, especially
the potential for changes in cognitive function, are attracting
increasing attention. The purpose of this study was to explore changes
in spatial learning and memory and synaptic structure and to identify
differentially expressed proteins in hippocampal and serum exosomes
after long-term exposure to 2.856 and 9.375 GHz microwaves. The spatial
reference learning and memory abilities and the structure of the DG area
were impaired after long-term exposure to 2.856 and 9.375 GHz
microwaves. We also found a decrease in SNARE-associated protein Snapin
and an increase in charged multivesicular body protein 3 in the
hippocampus, indicating that synaptic vesicle recycling was inhibited
and consistent with the large increase in presynaptic vesicles.
Moreover, we investigated changes in serum exosomes after 2.856 and
9.375 GHz microwave exposure. The results showed that long-term 2.856
GHz microwave exposure could induce a decrease in calcineurin subunit B
type 1 and cytochrome b-245 heavy chain in serum exosomes. While the
9.375 GHz long-term microwave exposure induced a decrease in proteins
(synaptophysin-like 1, ankyrin repeat and rabankyrin-5, protein
phosphatase 3 catalytic subunit alpha and sodium-dependent phosphate
transporter 1) in serum exosomes. In summary, long-term microwave
exposure could lead to different degrees of spatial learning and memory
impairment, EEG disturbance, structural damage to the hippocampus, and
differential expression of hippocampal tissue and serum exosomes.
Excerpts
...
There were no significant increases in rectal temperature (p = 0.1000, p = 0.128, p = 0.104)
between the time points before and immediately after microwave exposure
in any group, indicating that the effects of microwave radiation on the
mice in this experiment were mainly nonthermal effects (Fig. 1C)....
The radiation duration in this study was based on the ICNIRP guidelines
for Limiting Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (2020 version), which
established a standard time interval of 6 min for head health threats.
Therefore, 6 min was used as a daily exposure time to explore the
effects. Moreover, to determine whether the thermal effect played a role
in the exposure period, a core temperature detection method was used in
our study according to the previous literature [30]. The experimental results indicated that nonthermal effects were mainly involved in our study....
In summary, long-term microwave exposure (2.856 and 9.375 GHz, 6 min/d, 5
d/w, 6 w) led to different degrees of spatial learning and memory
impairment, EEG disturbance, damage to hippocampal structure and
differential expression of hippocampal tissue and serum exosomes. The
SNARE-associated protein Snapin and charged multivesicular body protein 3
in the hippocampus could be used as sensitive markers of microwave
exposure, and synaptic vesicle recycling was inhibited by long-term
microwave exposure. Different proteins in serum exosomes were found
after exposure to different frequency microwaves.
Open access paper: https://biosignaling.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12964-022-01011-1
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Effects of Nonthermal Radiofrequency Stimulation on Neuronal
Activity and Neural Circuit in Mice
Hao Y, Liu W, Liu Y, Liu Y, Xu Z, Ye Y, Zhou H, Deng H, Zuo H, Yang H, Li Y. Effects of Nonthermal Radiofrequency Stimulation on Neuronal Activity and Neural Circuit in Mice. Adv Sci (Weinh). 2023 Feb 8:e2205988. doi: 10.1002/advs.202205988.
Abstract
Whether the nonthermal effects of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exist
and how nonthermal RFR acts on the nervous system are unknown. An animal
model of spatial memory impairment is established by exposing mice to
2856-MHz RFR in the range of thermal noise (≤1 °C). Glutamate release in
the dorsal hippocampus (dHPC) CA1 region is not significantly changed
after radiofrequency exposure, whereas dopamine release is reduced.
Importantly, RFR enhances glutamatergic CA1 pyramidal neuron calcium
activity by nonthermal mechanisms, which recover to the basal level with
RFR termination. Furthermore, suppressed dHPC dopamine release induced
by radiofrequency exposure is due to decreased density of dopaminergic
projections from the locus coeruleus to dHPC, and artificial activation
of dopamine axon terminals or D1 receptors in dHPC CA1 improve memory
damage in mice exposed to RFR. These findings indicate that nonthermal
radiofrequency stimulation modulates ongoing neuronal activity and
affects nervous system function at the neural circuit level.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36755196/
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Pilot Study of the Long-Term Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure on the Mouse Brain
Spandole-Dinu S, Catrina A-M, Voinea OC, Andone A, Radu S, Haidoiu C,
Călborean O, Popescu DM, Suhăianu V, Baltag O, Tuță L, Roșu G. Pilot
Study of the Long-Term Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic
Radiation Exposure on the Mouse Brain. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2023; 20(4):3025.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph20043025.
Abstract
The increasing radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation pollution
resulting from the development and use of technologies utilizing RF has
sparked debate about the possible biological effects of said radiation.
Of particular concern is the potential impact on the brain, due to the
close proximity of communication devices to the head. The main aim of
this study was to examine the effects of long-term exposure to RF on the
brains of mice in a real-life scenario simulation compared to a
laboratory setting. The animals were exposed continuously for 16 weeks
to RF using a household Wi-Fi router and a laboratory device with a
frequency of 2.45 GHz, and were compared to a sham-exposed group. Before
and after exposure, the mice underwent behavioral tests (open-field
test and Y-maze); at the end of the exposure period, the brain was
harvested for histopathological analysis and assessment of DNA
methylation levels. Long-term exposure of mice to 2.45 GHz RF radiation
increased their locomotor activity, yet did not cause significant
structural or morphological changes in their brains. Global DNA
methylation was lower in exposed mice compared to sham mice. Further
research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these effects and
to understand the potential effects of RF radiation on brain function.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/4/3025
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Adverse effects of 900, 1800 and 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from mobile phones on bone and skeletal muscle
Bektas H, Nalbant A, Akdag MB, Demir C, Kavak S, Dasdag S. Adverse effects of 900, 1800 and 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from mobile phones on bone and skeletal muscle. Electromagn Biol Med. 2023 Feb 16:1-9. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2023.2179065
Abstract
The goal of this study was to biomechanically and morphologically research both the impact of mobile phone like radiofrequency radiations (RFR) on the tibia and the effects on skeletal muscle through oxidative stress parameters. Fifty-six rats (200-250 g) were put into groups: healthy sham (n = 7), healthy RFR (900, 1800, 2100 MHz) (n = 21), diabetic sham (n = 7) and diabetic RFR (900, 1800, 2100 MHz) (n = 21). Over a month, each group spent two hours/day in a Plexiglas carousel. The rats in the experimental group were exposed to RFR, but the sham groups were not. At the end of the experiment, the right tibia bones and skeletal muscle tissue were removed. The three-point bending test and radiological evaluations were performed on the bones, and CAT, GSH, MDA, and IMA in muscles were measured. There were differences in biomechanics properties and radiological evaluations between the groups (p < .05). In the measurements in the muscle tissues, significant differences were statistically found (p < .05). The average whole-body SAR values for GSM 900, 1800 and 2100 MHz were 0.026, 0.164, and 0.173 W/kg. RFRs emitted from mobile phone may cause adverse effects on tibia and skeletal muscle health, though further studies are needed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36794487/
ConclusionThe
results of this study show that mobile phone-derived RFRs (900, 1800
and 2100 MHz) may cause adverse effects on tibia bone and skeletal
muscle health, according to bone biomechanics and morphological analysis
evaluations and determined skeletal muscle oxidative stress parameters.
It was observed that some of these adverse effects intensify with the
increase in the frequency of the exposed RFR. In addition, these results
suggest that the effects of mobile phone-derived RFRs on bone and
muscle tissue should be investigated further through both molecular and
histological analyses.
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Swimming exercise reduces oxidative stress and liver damage indices of male rats exposed to electromagnetic radiation
Amiri H, Shabkhiz F, Pournemati P, Saffar Kohneh Quchan AH, Zeighami Fard R. Swimming exercise reduces oxidative stress and liver damage indices of male rats exposed to electromagnetic radiation. Life Sci. 2023 Jan 30;317:121461. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121461.
Abstract
Objectives: Hepatic damage caused by oxidative stress is one of the problems associated with the emission of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). In this study, the effects of swimming exercise (SE) on oxidative stress and liver cell damage caused by EMR emission in rats were investigated.
Methods: Thirty-two rats (8 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups, including control (C), EMR, SE, and EMR + SE. During four weeks, the animals engaged in SE (30 min/session, 5session/week) and were also exposed to EMR (4 h/day, seven days/week) emission from a Wi-Fi 2.45GHZ router. The liver and blood samples were collected at 48 h after completing four weeks of SE to assess histopathological damage, oxidative stress, and liver enzymes.
Key findings: Tissue sections showed severe liver damage in the EMR group compared to the C group, while the SE attenuated the liver damage. In the EMR group, compared to the C, SE and EMR + SE groups, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) decreased significantly, and the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP) increased significantly (P < 0.05). Swimming exercise in the SE and EMR + SE groups compared to EMR led to a significant increase in the activity of SOD and CAT and a significant decrease in the concentration of MDA and liver enzymes (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The study findings showed that the SE is beneficial in attenuating the harmful effects of RF-EMR emitted from the Wi-Fi on the liver.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36731647/
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Exercise ameliorates hippocampal damage induced by Wi-Fi radiation; a biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical study
Mohamed AO, Hafez SMNA, Ibrahim RA, Rifaai RA. Exercise ameliorates hippocampal damage induced by Wi-Fi radiation; a biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical study. J Chem Neuroanat. 2023 Feb 14:102252. doi: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102252.
Highlights
• The use of electromagnetic devices has now increased. Additionally, using the wireless devices has an impact on human health.
• Physical activity is a good non-pharmacological strategy that protect against the adverse effects of electromagnetic waves
• This study investigates the protective effect of exercise on the hippocampal damage induced by waves of the Wi-Fi devices
• It preserves hippocampal structure, enhances neurogenesis and reduces oxidative stress induced by waves of the Wi-Fi devices.
• This provides an insight on the importance of exercise in prevention of many health problems including mental health.
Abstract
Introduction: Nowadays, using electromagnetic devices (EMD) has been increased. However, the control of EMD hazards was poorly evaluated, especially those affected the hippocampus. Regular physical exercises are safe, easily, inexpensive and acceptable for long-term use. It is reported that exercise protects against many health problems.
Aim: is to investigate the hypothesis of the possible prophylactic effect of exercise on the hippocampal damage induced by electromagnetic waves of Wi-Fi.
Material and methods: Adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: group I (control), group II (exercise), group III (Wi-Fi), and group IV (exercise -Wi-Fi). Hippocampi were subjected to biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical techniques.
Results: In group III, a significant increase in the oxidative enzymes as well as decrease in antioxidant enzymes were detected in rat hippocampus. Additionally, the hippocampus showed degenerated pyramidal and granular neurons. An evident decrease in both PCNA and ZO-1 immunoreactivity was also noticed. In group IV, physical exercise alleviates the effect of Wi-Fi on previously mentioned parameters.
Conclusion: Regular physical exercise performance significantly minimizes the hippocampal damage and protects against the hazarders of chronic Wi-Fi radiation exposure.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36796735/
Excerpts
Wi-Fi device (802–16e 2005- WiMAX- Indoor CPE -antenna,
model number: WIXFMM-130, China) with a frequency of 2.45 -GHz. Duration
of radiation was 2 h per day in a 30-cm distance from antenna to the
cages (Mahmoudi et al., 2018).
Animals
of the exposed groups were exposed to Wi-Fi radiation from the 2nd week
of the experiment for 2 h per day per week for 6 weeks, while the
control and exercised groups were isolated in a separate room away from
any source of radiation....
Regular exercise has three potential
pathways that can help to reduce the risk associated with Wi-Fi
radiation exposure. It could lower ROS levels and increase the activity
of antioxidant enzymes. It also could enhance neurogenesis in the
dentate gyrus which could compensate the degenerated cells resulting
from EMR exposure. More-over it plays an important role in neuronal
communication and survival.
Taken together, it could be
concluded that physical exercise attenuates the effect of EMF exposure
on the hippocampus through different mechanisms. It reduces oxidative
stress, preserves neuronal structure, maintains BBB and synaptic
integrity and enhances neurogenesis.
Further
investigations on the prophylactic effect of exercise against EMR on
different organs and at different time point using different spectrum is
recommended. Also, further research about using antioxidant agents with
exercise to augment the protective effect against hazards of Wi-Fi
radiation is also recommended.
--
Effects of 2.45 GHz
Non-Ionizing Radiation on Anxiety-Like Behavior, Gene Expression, and
Corticosterone Level in Male Rats: Long-term Radiation Exposure Modifies
Memory and Anxiety Behavior
Tarsaei M, Peyrovan ZS, Mahdavi SM, Modarresi Chahardehi A,
Vafaie R, Haidari MH. (2022). Effects of 2.45 GHz
Non-Ionizing Radiation on Anxiety-Like Behavior, Gene Expression, and
Corticosterone Level in Male Rats: Long-term Radiation Exposure Modifies
Memory and Anxiety Behavior in Rats. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences, 13, e56.
Abstract
The effects of short-term and long-term exposures to 2.45 GHz
radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on anxiety-like
behavior, corticosterone level, and gene expression were investigated.
The animals have been classified into eight groups, sham groups and,
exposed groups for short-term and long-term exposure to the same dose of
RF-EMR for one hour daily. The Wi-Fi equipment in the sham control
group was not turned on during the experiment. The goal of this study
was to explore the effect of electromagnetic fields of 2.45 GHz on
clinical signs such as bodyweight and anxiety-like behavior, including
the elevated plus maze test and open-field test, and also on messenger
RNA (mRNA) expression of Bax (Bcl2-associated x) and Bcl-2
(B-cell lymphoma 2) genes on the cognitive memory functions in an
animal model of rats. Both genes were further confirmed by reverse
transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The semi-quantitative
PCR method of electromagnetic fields in the 2.45 GHz range impacted the
expression of Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the rat's memory.
The present study exhibited that short-term radiation could decrease
the percentage of entry into the open arm and the percentage of time
spent, while there were no substantial impacts on the long-term
radiation effect. Our data support the hypothesis that short-term
exposure worked as a systemic stressor, raising plasma corticosterone
and changing glucocorticoid receptor expression in the hippocampus.
Additional research on this specific frequency and amount of radiation
is required to discover strategies for protecting the nervous system
from the detrimental effects of RF-EMR radiation.
Open access paper: https://journals.sbmu.ac.ir/jlms/article/view/39761
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Evaluation of cognitive functions and EEG records in rats exposed to 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field
Yucel H, Dundar NO, Doguc DK, Uguz C, Celik O, Aksoy FT, Nazıroglu M, Comlekci S, Dundar B. Evaluation of cognitive functions and EEG records in rats exposed to 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field.
Int J Radiat Res 2022, 20(4): 753-760.
Abstract
Background: Electromagnetic fields may primarily affect cognitive functions. It has not been elucidated how electromagnetic radiation affects the brain, particularly in the young age group. We aimed to examine the cognitive function, expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA), and EEG alterations in weaned rats exposed to a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-one weaned (21 days old) male Wistar Albino rats were divided into two groups as experimental group (n=12) and control group (n=9). Animals in the experimental group were exposed to a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field for one hour a day for more than 28 days. At the end of this period, rats were subjected to training and learning test using Morris Water Maze. After obtaining EEG records, hippocampi were removed. 2A and 2B subunits of NMDA receptors were studied in hippocampal homogenates using the Western Blot method.
Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in measures of latency to target quadrant, time spent in the target quadrant, and average swim speed as compared in Morris water maze. However, the time to arrive at the visible platform was significantly longer in experimental animals. There were no statistically significant differences in expression of 2A and 2B subunits of NMDA receptors between the two groups. Evaluation of EEG records revealed that spike frequency was significantly higher and time to first spike was significantly shorter in the experimental group.
Conclusion: These results indicated that a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field might negatively affect EEG, motivation, and attention, particularly in the young age group.
Open access paper: https://ijrr.com/article-1-4460-en.pdf
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Evaluating the Effect of Jammer Radiation on Learning and Memory in Male
Rats
Yazdanpanahi M, Namazi A, Shojaeifard MB, Nematolahi S, Pourahmad S.
Evaluating the Effect of Jammer Radiation on Learning and Memory in Male
Rats. J Biomed Phys Eng. 2023 Feb 1;13(1):29-38. doi:
10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2001-1049.
Abstract
Background: Previous studies shown that mobile phone can impairment of working memory in humans.
Objective: In this study, the effect of radiofrequency radiation emitted from common mobile jammers have been studied on the learning and memory of rats.
Material and methods: In this prospective study, 90 Sprague-Dawley rats, were divided into 9 groups (N=10): Control, Sham1st (exposed to a switched-off mobile jammer device at a distance of 50 or 100 cm/1 day, 2 hours), Sham2nd (similar to Sham1st, but for 14 days, 2 h/day), Experimental1st -50 cm/1 day &100 cm/1 day (exposed to a switched-on device at a distance of 50 or 100 cm for 2 hours), Experimental2nd (similar to experimental1st, but for 14 days, 2 h/day). The animals were tested for learning and memory the next day, by the shuttle box. The time that a rat took to enter the dark part was considered as memory.
Results: Mean short-term memory was shorter in the experimental- 50 cm/1 day than control and sham- 50 cm/1 day (P=0.034), long-term memory was similar. Mean short- and long-term memory were similar in the experimental- 100 cm/1 day, control and sham- 100 cm/1 day (P>0.05). Mean short-term memory was similar in experimental- 50 cm/14 days, control, and sham- 50 cm/14 days (P=0.087), but long-term learning memory was shorter in the radiated group (P=0.038). Mean short- and long-term were similar among experimental-100 cm/14 days, control or sham 100 cm/14 days (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Rats exposed to jammer device showed dysfunction in short- and long-term memory, which shown the unfavorable effect of jammer on memory and learning. Our results indicated that the distance from radiation source was more important than the duration.
Excerpt:
The mobile jammer used in this study was an MB06-Mobile blocker,
designed for 4-four different frequencies, including code division
multiple access, digital cellular service, global system for mobile
(GSM) communication, and third-generation which blocks the following
frequencies: 850, 900, and 1800 MHz. The shielding radius was indicated
to be 0-40 m on the jammer device.
Open access paper: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9923240/
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Microwaves can kill malaria parasites non-thermally
Coronado LM, Stoute JA, Nadovich CT, Cheng J, Correa R, Chaw K, González
G, Zambrano M, Gittens RA, Agrawal DK, Jemison WD, Donado Morcillo CA,
Spadafora C. Microwaves can kill malaria parasites non-thermally. Front
Cell Infect Microbiol. 2023 Feb 2;13:955134. doi:
10.3389/fcimb.2023.955134.
Abstract
Malaria, which infected more than 240 million people and killed around
six hundred thousand only in 2021, has reclaimed territory after the
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Together with parasite resistance and a
not-yet-optimal vaccine, the need for new approaches has become
critical. While earlier, limited, studies have suggested that malaria
parasites are affected by electromagnetic energy, the outcomes of this
affectation vary and there has not been a study that looks into the
mechanism of action behind these responses. In this study, through
development and implementation of custom applicators for in vitro
experimentation, conditions were generated in which microwave energy
(MW) killed more than 90% of the parasites, not by a thermal effect but
via a MW energy-induced programmed cell death that does not seem to
affect mammalian cell lines. Transmission electron microscopy points to
the involvement of the haemozoin-containing food vacuole, which becomes
destroyed; while several other experimental approaches demonstrate the
involvement of calcium signaling pathways in the resulting effects of
exposure to MW. Furthermore, parasites were protected from the effects
of MW by calcium channel blockers calmodulin and phosphoinositol. The
findings presented here offer a molecular insight into the elusive
interactions of oscillating electromagnetic fields with P. falciparum, prove that they are not related to temperature, and present an alternative technology to combat this devastating disease.
Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2023.955134/full
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Impacts of Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)—Evidence for RF-EMF Interference with Plant Stress Responses
Tran NT, Jokic L, Keller J, Geier JU, Kaldenhoff R. Impacts of Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)—Evidence for RF-EMF Interference with Plant Stress Responses. Plants. 2023; 12(5):1082. doi: 10.3390/plants12051082.
Abstract
The increased use of wireless technology causes a significant exposure
increase for all living organisms to radio frequency electromagnetic
fields (RF-EMF). This comprises bacteria, animals, and also plants.
Unfortunately, our understanding of how RF-EMF influences plants and
plant physiology remains inadequate. In this study, we examined the
effects of RF-EMF radiation on lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa)
in both indoor and outdoor environments using the frequency ranges of
1890–1900 MHz (DECT) at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (Wi-Fi). Under greenhouse
conditions, RF-EMF exposure had only a minor impact on fast chlorophyll
fluorescence kinetics and no effect on plant flowering time. In
contrast, lettuce plants exposed to RF-EMF in the field showed a
significant and systemic decrease in photosynthetic efficiency and
accelerated flowering time compared to the control groups. Gene
expression analysis revealed significant down-regulation of two
stress-related genes in RF-EMF-exposed plants: violaxanthin de-epoxidase
(VDE) and zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP). RF-EMF-exposed plants had lower
Photosystem II's maximal photochemical quantum yield (FV/FM)
and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) than control plants under light
stress conditions. In summary, our results imply that RF-EMF might
interfere with plant stress responses and reduced plant stress
tolerance.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/12/5/1082
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Effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells: proteomic characterization
Lazzarini R, Eléxpuru-Zabaleta M, Piva F, Giulietti M, Fulgenzi G, Tartaglione MF, Zingaretti L, Tagliabracci A, Valentino M, Santarelli L, Bracci M. Effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells: proteomic characterization. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2023 Feb 16;253:114650. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114650.
Abstract
Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-MF) can modify the
cell viability and regulatory processes of some cell types, including
breast cancer cells. Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease where a
role for ELF-MF cannot be excluded. ELF-MF may influence the biological
properties of breast cells through molecular mechanisms and signaling
pathways that are still unclear. This study analyzed the changes in the
cell viability, cellular morphology, oxidative stress response and
alteration of proteomic profile in breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231)
exposed to ELF-MF (50 Hz, 1 mT for 4 h). Non-tumorigenic human breast
cells (MCF-10A) were used as control cells. Exposed MDA-MB-231 breast
cancer cells increased their viability and live cell number and showed a
higher density and length of filopodia compared with the unexposed
cells. In addition, ELF-MF induced an increase of the mitochondrial ROS
levels and an alteration of mitochondrial morphology. Proteomic data
analysis showed that ELF-MF altered the expression of 328 proteins in
MDA-MB-231 cells and of 242 proteins in MCF-10A cells. Gene Ontology
term enrichment analysis demonstrated that in both cell lines ELF-MF
exposure up-regulated the genes enriched in "focal adhesion" and
"mitochondrion". The ELF-MF exposure decreased the adhesive properties
of MDA-MB-231 cells and increased the migration and invasion cell
abilities. At the same time, proteomic analysis, confirmed by Real Time
PCR, revealed that transcription factors associated with cellular
reprogramming were upregulated in MDA-MB-231 cells and downregulated in
MCF-10A cells after ELF-MF exposure. MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells
exposed to 1 mT 50 Hz ELF-MF showed modifications in proteomic profile
together with changes in cell viability, cellular morphology, oxidative
stress response, adhesion, migration and invasion cell abilities. The
main signaling pathways involved were relative to focal adhesion,
mitochondrion and cellular reprogramming.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36805133
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Effect of 50-Hz magnetic fields on the expression of activation-induced
deaminase, B-cell lymphoma 6 and serum levels of interleukin-6,
interleukin-21
Gholamian-Hamadan M, Behzad M, Molaei S, Zaerieghane Z, Talebi-Ghane E, Zamani A. Effect of 50-Hz magnetic fields on the expression of activation-induced deaminase, B-cell lymphoma 6 and serum levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-21. Int J Radiat Biol. 2023 Feb 6:1-18. doi: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2177767.
Abstract
Background: Investigations showed different effects of magnetic fields (MFs) on the immune system. During humoral immune responses, genes of activation-induced deaminase (AID) and B-cell lymphoma-6 (Bcl-6) are expressed and interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-21 are produced. These factors play significant roles in class switching, affinity maturation of antibodies and activations of B cells germinal centers (GCs). Therefore, this study investigated the effect of 50-Hz MFs exposure with different densities on these factors.
Materials and Methods: Eighty rats were divided into four exposures and a control groups. The treatment groups were exposed to magnetic flux densities of 1, 100, 500, and 2000 µT (50 Hz, 2h/day for 60 days). To activation of the immune system, all the animals were immunized with human serum albumin on days 31, 44, and 58 of exposure. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to assay the expression levels of AID and Bcl-6 genes in the spleen. The serum levels of IL-6 and IL-21 were also detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at the pre- and post-immunization phases.
Results: AID expression was significantly declined at 1µT magnetic flux density, while no change was observed in the expression of Bcl-6. Serum IL-6 was increased only in 500 µT group at the post-immunization phase.
Conclusion: It seems exposure to 50-Hz MFs at 1µT density, suppresses AID and may cause decline in class switching and affinity maturation of Abs. On the other hand, exposure to 500µT, may activate them. These findings demonstrate the various potential effects of MFs on the humoral immune system.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36745859/
Conclusion
It appears two months exposure to 50-Hz MFs causes to change some aspect of humoral immunity, both in low and high flux densities. Reduction in AID expression at lower density may hypothesize a suppression role in humoral immunity, especially class switching and affinity maturation of Abs. In contrast, higher density could increase serum IL-6 and activate the differentiation of B cells to plasma cells and may enhances humoral responses. This finding indicated the complexities of these reactions which highlight the need for further studies.
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Assessing
electric field strength inside a anatomical hand model caused by a magnetic deactivator device for Electronic Article Surveillance System labels
Schneeweiss P, Hirtl R, Schmid G. Assessing non-sinusoidal in situ electric field strength inside a detailed anatomical hand model caused by a magnetic deactivator device for EAS labels. J Radiol Prot. 2023 Feb 6. doi: 10.1088/1361-6498/acb955.
Abstract
To evaluate the localized magnetic field (MF) exposure of the
cashier's hand due to a particular de-magnetization device (deactivator)
for single-use labels of an acousto-magnetic (AM) electronic article
surveillance (EAS) system, comprehensive measurements of MF near the
surface of the deactivator and numerical computations of the induced
electric field strength Ei were performed in high-resolution
anatomical hand models of different postures and positions with respect
to the deactivator. The measurement results for magnetic induction B
were assessed with respect to the action levels (AL) for limb exposure,
and the computational results for Ei were evaluated with
respect to the exposure limit values (ELV) for health effects according
to EU directive 2013/35/EU. For the ELV-based assessment, the maximum of
the 2 x 2 x 2 mm3averaged Ei (maxEi,avg) and the respective 99.9th, 99.5th, and 99.0th percentiles
were used. As the MF impulse emitted by the deactivator for
de-magnetization of the AM-EAS labels was highly non-sinusoidal,
measurement results were assessed based on the weighted peak method in
time domain (WPM-TD). A newly developed scaling technique was proposed
to apply the WPM-TD also for the assessment of the (non-sinusoidal) Ei regarding
the ELV. It was used to calculate the resulting WPM-TD based exposure
index (EI) from frequency domain computations. The assessment regarding
the AL for limbs yielded peak values of magnetic induction of up to 97
mT (measured with a 3 cm2MF probe on top of the deactivator
surface) corresponding to an EI of 443 %. However, this was considered
an overestimation of the actual exposure in terms of Eias the AL were defined conservatively by intention. A WPM-TD based assessment of Eifinally led to worst case EI up to 135 %, 93 %, 78 %, and 72 % when using the maxEi,avg, 99.9th, 99.5th, and 99.0thpercentiles, respectively.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36745918/
...
it can be hypothesized that the ICNIRP 2010 reference levels may not be conservative in the sense that even when meeting the reference levels, compliance with the basic restrictions is not guaranteed, although an additional reduction factor of 3 was introduced when deriving the reference levels from the basic restrictions, with the intention to account for numerical uncertainties. In particular, this has significant implications for workplace safety, as according to the definition in 2013/35/EU, a workplace can be assumed compliant if the AL are met without any further investigation with respect to the ELV. All in all, the investigated device must be considered at least borderline to non-compliance and precautionary measures are recommended, e.g., ensuring a distance of 50 mm to the deactivator surface to ensure compliance. All in all, the investigated device must be considered at least borderline to non-compliance and precautionary measures are recommended, e.g., ensuring a distance of 50 mm to the deactivator surface to ensure compliance.
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Aligning Exposure Limits for Contact Currents with Exposure Limits for Electric Fields
Kavet R, Tell RA. Aligning Exposure Limits for Contact Currents with Exposure Limits for Electric Fields. Health Phys. 2023 Feb 3. doi: 10.1097/HP.0000000000001659.
Abstract
The Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and
the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection
(ICNIRP) have established limits for exposures to electromagnetic fields
across the 0-300 GHz (non-ionizing) spectrum, including limits on
contact currents (CC) specified by IEEE for 0-110 MHz (ICNIRP issued a
CC "guidance level"). Both sets of limits seek to protect against
potentially adverse effects, including aversive electrostimulation at
frequencies <100 kHz and excessive heating of tissue at frequencies
>100 kHz. For the most part, CC is linked to electric field (E-field)
exposures for an ungrounded person contacting a grounded object, with
the short-circuit current (ISC) through the contact point (usually the
hand) equivalent to the current through the grounded feet of a
free-standing person exposed to a vertically polarized E-field. The
physical linkage between these two quantities dictates that their
respective exposure limits align with one another, which is presently
not the case, especially with respect to frequencies from100 kHz to 110
MHz. Here we focus specifically on recommendations for revisions to the
IEEE standard, IEEE Std C95.1™-2019 ("IEEE C95.1"), in which the E-field
exposure limit (E-field exposure reference levels, ERLs) >100 kHz
induces substantially greater currents than the CC ERLs currently
prescribed. The most important scenario deserving of attention concerns
finger contact through a 1-cm2 cross-sectional interface between the
skin and a grounded conductor in which the rate of temperature rise in
the presence of an E-field ERL can be rapid enough to cause a burn
injury. This rate is highly dependent on the moistness/dryness of the
skin at the contact point (i.e., its impedance)-a highly variable
value-with temperature increasing more rapidly with increasing dryness
(greater contact impedance). The two main remedies to alleviate the
possibility of injury in this "touch" scenario are to (a) limit the time
of finger contact to 1 s in all cases and (b) revise the E-field ERL
between 100 kHz and 30 MHz from a "hockey-stick-shaped" curve vs.
frequency to a "ramp" across this frequency range. These measures
factored in with the real-world prevalence of potentially hazardous
scenarios should afford greater protection against adverse outcomes than
is presently the case. IEEE C95.1 also specifies limits for grasp
contact (15 cm2 in the palm) and associated wrist heating, plus heating
in the ankles from free-standing induction. However, these scenarios are
more manageable compared to finger touch due mainly to the
comparatively lower rates of tissue heating attributable to the wrist's
and ankle's relatively greater cross-sectional area. Recommendations for
grasp can thus be dealt with separately. Two identified but unaddressed
issues in IEEE C95.1 deserving of further attention are first, the
circumstance in which a grounded person contacts an ungrounded object
situated in an electric field for which there are countless numbers of
scenarios that are not amenable to a single ERL. Second, arcing between
an extended limb and E-field-exposed object is perhaps the most
hazardous of all scenarios. Both of these scenarios cannot be
stereotyped and must be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Future
revisions of IEEE Std C95.1-2019 (and the ICNIRP guidelines) will
benefit from improved insight into strategies of affording protection
from potentially adverse effects in these circumstances.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36735538/
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High-Fidelity 3D Stray Magnetic Field Mapping of
Smartphones to Address Safety Considerations with Active Implantable
Electronic Medical Devices
Saha N, Millward JM, Herrmann CJJ, Rahimi F, Han H, Lacour P, Blaschke
F, Niendorf T. High-Fidelity 3D Stray Magnetic Field Mapping of
Smartphones to Address Safety Considerations with Active Implantable
Electronic Medical Devices. Sensors (Basel). 2023 Jan 20;23(3):1209.
doi: 10.3390/s23031209.
Abstract
Case reports indicate that magnets in smartphones could be a source of
electromagnetic interference (EMI) for active implantable medical
devices (AIMD), which could lead to device malfunction, compromising
patient safety. Recognizing this challenge, we implemented a
high-fidelity 3D magnetic field mapping (spatial resolution 1 mm) setup
using a three-axis Hall probe and teslameter, controlled by a robot
(COSI Measure). With this setup, we examined the stray magnetic field of
an iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 12, and MagSafe charger to identify sources of
magnetic fields for the accurate risk assessment of potential
interferences with AIMDs. Our measurements revealed that the stray
fields of the annular array of magnets, the wide-angle camera, and the
speaker of the smartphones exceeded the 1 mT limit defined by ISO
14117:2019. Our data-driven safety recommendation is that an iPhone 13
Pro should be kept at least 25 mm away from an AIMD to protect it from
unwanted EMI interactions. Our study addresses safety concerns due to
potential device-device interactions between smartphones and AIMDs and
will help to define data-driven safety guidelines. We encourage vendors
of electronic consumer products (ECP) to provide information on the
magnetic fields of their products and advocate for the inclusion of
smartphones in the risk assessment of EMI with AIMDs.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/3/1209
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Evaluating 60 GHz FWA Deployments for Urban and Rural Environments in
Belgium
Castellanos G, De Beelde B, Plets D, Martens L, Joseph W, Deruyck M.
Evaluating 60 GHz FWA Deployments for Urban and Rural Environments in
Belgium. Sensors (Basel). 2023 Jan 17;23(3):1056. doi:
10.3390/s23031056.
Abstract
Fixed wireless access (FWA) provides a solution to compete with fiber
deployment while offering reduced costs by using the mmWave bands,
including the unlicensed 60 GHz one. This paper evaluates the deployment
of FWA networks in the 60 GHz band in realistic urban and rural
environment in Belgium. We developed a network planning tool that
includes novel backhaul based on the IEEE 802.11ay standard with
multi-objective capabilities to maximise the user coverage, providing at
least 1 Gbps of bit rate while minimising the required network
infrastructure. We evaluate diverse serving node locations, called edge
nodes (EN), and the impact of environmental factors such as rain and
vegetation on the network design. Extensive simulation results show that
defining a proper EN's location is essential to achieve viable user
coverage higher than 95%, particularly in urban scenarios where street
canyons affect propagation. Rural scenarios require nearly 75 ENs per
km2 while urban scenarios require four times (300 ENs per km2) this
infrastructure. Finally, vegetation can reduce the coverage by 3% or
increment infrastructure up to 7%, while heavy rain can reduce coverage
by 5% or increment infrastructure by 15%, depending on the node
deployment strategy implemented.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/23/3/1056
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Essential elements of radical pair magnetosensitivity in Drosophila
Bradlaugh AA, Fedele G, Munro AL, Hansen CN, Hares JM, Patel S, Kyriacou CP, Jones AR, Rosato E, Baines RA. Essential elements of radical pair magnetosensitivity in Drosophila. Nature. 2023 Feb 22. doi: 10.1038/s41586-023-05735-z.
Abstract
Many animals use Earth's magnetic field (also known as the geomagnetic field) for navigation1.
The favoured mechanism for magnetosensitivity involves a
blue-light-activated electron-transfer reaction between flavin adenine
dinucleotide (FAD) and a chain of tryptophan residues within the
photoreceptor protein CRYPTOCHROME (CRY). The spin-state of the
resultant radical pair, and therefore the concentration of CRY in its
active state, is influenced by the geomagnetic field2. However, the canonical CRY-centric radical-pair mechanism does not explain many physiological and behavioural observations2-8.
Here, using electrophysiology and behavioural analyses, we assay
magnetic-field responses at the single-neuron and organismal levels. We
show that the 52 C-terminal amino acid residues of Drosophila
melanogaster CRY, lacking the canonical FAD-binding domain and
tryptophan chain, are sufficient to facilitate magnetoreception. We also
show that increasing intracellular FAD potentiates both
blue-light-induced and magnetic-field-dependent effects on the activity
mediated by the C terminus. High levels of FAD alone are sufficient to
cause blue-light neuronal sensitivity and, notably, the potentiation of
this response in the co-presence of a magnetic field. These results
reveal the essential components of a primary magnetoreceptor in flies,
providing strong evidence that non-canonical (that is,
non-CRY-dependent) radical pairs can elicit magnetic-field responses in
cells.
Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05735-z
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Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) induces
alterations in epigenetic regulation in the myometrium - An in vitro
study
Franczak A, Drzewiecka EM, Kozlowska W, Zmijewska A, Wydorski PJ.
Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) induces
alterations in epigenetic regulation in the myometrium - An in vitro
study. Theriogenology. 2023 Feb 7;200:136-146. doi:
10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.005.
Abstract
Previous research by the authors indicated that an extremely
low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) evokes molecular
alterations in the porcine myometrium. It was hypothesized that the
ELF-EMF could induce alterations in the epigenetic regulation of gene
expression in the myometrium. In the current study, slices of the
porcine myometrium during the peri-implantation period (n = 4) were used
for further in vitro exposition to ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 8 mT, 2 h treatment
duration). The study tested whether the ELF-EMF may affect: 1/the
expression of DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and DNA
(cytosine-5)-methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a), 2/the level of genomic DNA
methylation, and 3/the level of amplification of methylated and
unmethylated variants of promoter regions of selected genes with altered
expression in response to ELF-EMF. It was found that ELF-EMF treatment
increased DNMT1, decreased DNMT3a mRNA transcript and protein abundance,
and increased the level of genomic DNA methylation. The direction of
alterations in the level of amplification of methylated and unmethylated
variants of the promoter region of selected genes with altered
expression, i.e. prodynorphin (PDYN), interleukin 15 (IL15) signal
transducer and activator of transcription 5A (STAT5A), tumor necrosis
factor (TNF), and between down-regulated genes were early growth
response 2 (EGR2), hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1),
and uteroferrin associated basic protein-2 (UABP2), mostly involving the
direction of changes in their transcriptional activity, which was
evaluated in a previous study by the authors. Thus, ELF-EMF radiation
disturbs epigenetic mechanisms, which may underlay ELF-EMF-related
transcriptomic alterations in the myometrium.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36806924/
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Comparison of electromagnetic exposure for passengers at different positions on the subway platform
Li J, Lu M. Comparison of electromagnetic exposure for passengers at different positions on the subway platform. EMIE 2022; The 2nd International Conference on Electronic Materials and Information Engineering, Hangzhou, China, 2022, pp. 1-6.
Abstract
To evaluate the safety of electromagnetic exposure for passengers at different positions on the subway platform, the High Frequency Structure Simulator software is used to establish the exposure source, i.e., the leakage coaxial cable model and the adult and child passenger models. Three waiting positions (A, B and C) with an interval of 1.5 m are selected on the subway platform. The distribution of the specific absorption rate of the adult and child passengers at different waiting positions was calculated at 900 MHz. Results show that among the three locations, the maximum SAR values in the adult and child bodies appear at position A nearest to the exposure source, which are 1.5859×10(exp -7) and 1.0854×10(exp -7) W/kg, respectively. According to the comparison of the SAR distribution between the adult and the child at positions A and C, the SAR values in the child's brain tissue are 4.98 and 2.80 times higher than those of the adult, respectively. The simulation results are well below the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection limits for the general public, indicating that the adult and child passengers do not suffer health risks under the electromagnetic exposure emitted by the leaky coaxial cable on the subway platform.
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10048274