• Electrohypersensitivity must be defined by the decrease of brain electromagnetic fields tolerance threshold.
Abstract
Much of the controversy
over the cause of electrohypersensitivity (EHS) lies in the absence of
recognized clinical and biological criteria for a widely accepted
diagnosis. However, there are presently sufficient data for EHS to be
acknowledged as a distinctly well-defined and objectively characterized
neurologic pathological disorder. Because we have shown that 1) EHS is
frequently associated with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) in EHS
patients, and 2) that both individualized disorders share a common
pathophysiological mechanism for symptom occurrence; it appears that EHS
and MCS can be identified as a unique neurologic syndrome, regardless
its causal origin. In this overview we distinguish the etiology of EHS
itself from the environmental causes that trigger pathophysiological
changes and clinical symptoms after EHS has occurred. Contrary to
present scientifically unfounded claims, we indubitably refute the
hypothesis of a nocebo effect to explain the genesis of EHS and its
presentation. We as well refute the erroneous concept that EHS could be
reduced to a vague and unproven “functional impairment”. To the
contrary, we show here there are objective pathophysiological changes
and health effects induced by electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in
EHS patients and most of all in healthy subjects, meaning that excessive
non-thermal anthropogenic EMFs are strongly noxious for health. In this
overview and medical assessment we focus on the effects of extremely
low frequencies, wireless communications radio frequencies and
microwaves EMF. We discuss how to better define and characterize EHS.
Taken into consideration the WHO proposed causality criteria, we show
that EHS is in fact causally associated with increased exposure to
man-made EMF, and in some cases to marketed environmental chemicals. We
therefore appeal to all governments and international health
institutions, particularly the WHO, to urgently consider the growing
EHS-associated pandemic plague, and to acknowledge EHS as a new real EMF
causally-related pathology.
--
An
idiographic approach to Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance attributed
to Electromagnetic Fields (IEI-EMF) Part II. Ecological momentary
assessment of three individuals with severe IEI-EMF
Zsuzsanna
Dömötör, Gábor Ruzsa, György Thuróczy, Péter P Necz, Steven Nordin,
Ferenc Köteles, Renáta Szemerszky.
An idiographic approach to Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance
attributed to Electromagnetic Fields (IEI-EMF) Part II. Ecological
momentary assessment of three individuals with severe IEI-EMF. Heliyon.
2022 May 14;8(5):e09421. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09421.
Abstract
IEI-EMF
refers to a self-reported sensitivity characterized by attribution of
non-specific physical symptoms to exposure to weak EMFs. The majority of
empirical results do not support the existence of a causal relationship
between EMF and IEI-EMF. However, this conclusion was drawn from
environmental and experimental studies that are not without
methodological limitations. In the current study, as part of a complex
biopsychosocial approach, an ecological momentary assessment (EMA)
protocol was applied for the investigation of the temporal relationship
between actual radio frequency (RF) EMF exposure and IEI-EMF, at the
individual level. Continuous measurement of autonomic variables by
holter electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors and the ambient RF EMF by
personal dosimeters, as well as repeated (8/day) paper-and-pencil
assessments of momentary internal states (symptoms, mood, perceived EMF
intensity) and situational factors was conducted for 21 days with the
participation of three individuals with severe IEI-EMF. Temporal
relationships were examined by time series analyses. For two
participants, the results did not support the association between the
suspected EMF frequency range(s) and symptom reports. Nevertheless, the
results revealed a reverse association with respect to another frequency
range (GSM900 downlink), which contradicts the IEI-EMF condition.
Autonomic activation related findings were inconsistent. For the third
participant, the claimed association was partly supported, both for
symptom reports and autonomic reactions (UMTS downlink, total RF; RMS
values). The findings of this study suggest that IEI-EMF does not have a
unitary aetiology. For certain individuals, a biophysical background
cannot be excluded, whereas no such underlying factor appears to be at
work for others. EMA is a useful method for the investigation of the
aetiology of IEI-EMF.
--
Effect of mobile phone usage duration during pregnancy on the general motor movements of infants
H Bektas, MS Bektas, S Dasdag. Effect of mobile phone usage duration during pregnancy on the general motor movements of infants. Biotechnology & Biotechnological Equipment. 36(1). 2022. doi: 10.1080/13102818.2022.2046505.
Abstract
Radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted from wireless devices increases rapidly and the most sensitive groups are pregnant women and children. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the fidgety movements (FMs) and motor repertoires of the infants of pregnant women with different durations of mobile phone usage (DOMFU) in the prenatal period by performing a general movement assessment (GMA) using the Prechtl method. Infants suitable for the study were divided into 4 groups according to their mothers' duration of mobile phone usage during pregnancy, comprising those who did not talk on a mobile phone (Control Group, n: 31), those with mobile phone usage (MFU) of similar to 20 min a day (Group 1, n: 33), those with MFU of similar to 40 min a day (Group 2, n: 31), and those with MFU of similar to 2 h a day (Group 3, n: 28). The analysis showed that the abnormal fidgety (AF) and absent fidgety (F-), suboptimal motor optimality score (MOS) and reduced motor repertoire were statistically higher in Group 3 compared to the other groups. Normal posture and the quality of other movements were statistically higher in the Control, and Groups 1 and 2 compared to Group 3. According to the findings, infants of mothers with different DOMFU during pregnancy differed with regard to the quality of FMs, MOS, repertoire, posture and other movements. In conclusion, the findings suggested that there may be a relationship between prenatal RFR exposure and motor development in infants. More long-term studies are needed to determine whether these changes are temporary or permanent.
--
Microwave Emissions and the Problem of Modern Viral Diseases
S V Avakyan, L A Baranova.
Microwave Emissions and the Problem of Modern Viral Diseases.
Her Russ Acad Sci. 2022;92(2):177-187. doi: 10.1134/S1019331622020058.
Abstract
The results of a study on the mechanisms of
the influence of an increased level of microwave radiation on the
growth of infectious, primarily viral, diseases in the environment are
presented. This is the radiation of the earth's ionosphere, which
reached its maximum in the late 1980s-early 2000s, following an increase
in the level of solar activity since the 17th century. Over the past 30
years, the anthropogenic electromagnetic background has increased 100
times due to the development of cellular mobile communications and
computerization. The predicted interaction of natural and anthropogenic
sources of microwaves sharply increases their negative impact on the
ecological situation. Of particular concern is the active spread in
recent years of the new 5G communication standard; in the future, it is
the development of the most dangerous millimeter range in our country.
Energy from the environment in the microwave range can cause "unexpected
behavior" in the DNA of viruses. Clarifications to the recommendations
of experts on the protection of the population with the help of
electromagnetic shielding, obtained in the framework of supramolecular
physics of the environment, are proposed.
Excerpt
The effect of a permanent increase in microwave fluxes
from the environment on the activation of viral pandemics is considered.
This is not only the radiation of the earth’s ionosphere but also the
anthropogenic electromagnetic background, caused by an avalanche-like
increase in microwave pollution of the habitat during the operation of
mobile cellular telephony, household computer equipment, and
digitalization systems. The predicted interaction of natural and
anthropogenic sources of microwaves sharply increases their negative
impact on the ecological situation. Therefore, efforts are needed to
reduce drastically the amount of time spent using mobile phones and
surfing the Internet among at-risk populations, including secondary
school students. This wish of the authors is consistent with the
concerns expressed recently by both teachers and parents of students, as
well as with the opinion of the General Prosecutor’s Office of the
Russian Federation.
The proposed
clarifications to the recommendations of experts on the protection of
the population using electromagnetic shielding suggest the development
of biophysical studies of the cumulative microwave impact both within
heliobiology (at the present stage of the decline in the level of
solar–geomagnetic activity) and taking into account the resonant
mechanisms of increasing anthropogenic exposure at communication
frequencies.
--
Symptoms reported by
Canadians posted in Havana are linked with reduced white matter fibre
density
Guillermo Aristi, Lyna Kamintsky, Margaux Ross, Chris Bowen, Cynthia
Calkin, Alon Friedman, Javeria A. Hashmi. Symptoms reported by
Canadians posted in Havana are linked with reduced white matter fibre
density, Brain Communications. 4:2, 2022, fcac053, doi: 10.1093/braincomms/fcac053.
Abstract
Diplomats representing the USA have reported with unusual neurologic
symptoms and MRI changes after being posted in Havana, Cuba between late
2016 and 2018. Here, we examined white matter microstructure and
network connectivity of individuals stationed in Havana, using
diffusion-weighted MRI, fixel-based analysis and structural connectomics
as implemented in MRtrix3. MRI data acquisition and clinical
assessments were done in a total of 24 diplomats and their family
members and 40 healthy controls. The diplomat data were grouped into an
exposed cohort (n = 16) and an unexposed cohort (n = 10),
and among these, two individuals were assessed before and after
potential exposure. Fixel-based analysis revealed a reduction in fibre
density in two specific regions: the fornix and the splenium, in exposed
individuals, relative to unexposed individuals and healthy controls. Post hoc analyses showed the effect remained present (P < 0.05)
in both regions when comparing exposed and unexposed diplomats; and
reduced fibre density was correlated with longer time period stationed
in Cuba after age correction. Reduction of fibre density was also found
to be linked with clinical symptoms of persistent migraine, tinnitus,
sound sensitivity and fatigue. Network statistical comparisons revealed
decreased structural connectivity in two distinct networks, comprising
subcortical and cortical systems in exposed individuals, relative to
unexposed and normative data. While the cause for the differences
between the groups remains unknown, our results reveal region-specific
white matter injury, that is, significantly correlated with clinical
symptoms.
--
Microwave Auditory Effects Among U.S. Government Personnel
Reporting Directional Audible and Sensory Phenomena in Havana
James C. Lin. Microwave Auditory Effects Among U.S. Government Personnel
Reporting Directional Audible and Sensory Phenomena in Havana. IEEE Access, vol. 10, pp. 44577-44582, 2022, doi: 10.1109/ACCESS.2022.3168656.
Abstract:
The mysterious incidents on diplomatic and intelligence personnel began
in 2016. Since then, nearly 200 incidents have been reported. The
illnesses and symptoms are called Havana Syndrome, named for the city
where cases were first reported. The initial accounts from Havana
include hearing of loud high-pitched sounds, localizing the sources as
coming from above or behind the head, experiencing a directional sound
that ceases if one steps away, the covering of ears not making any
difference, some hearing the sound but others in the same room not
hearing it, or hearing it in one part of a room but not in other areas.
Assuming the reported symptoms and accounts are consistent, the
microwave auditory effect provides a scientific explanation for Havana
Syndrome.
Excerpts
Although the required peak power
densities are high, they are achievable with existing high-power
commercial and military microwave systems operating under pulsed
conditions [25]. Significantly, they also fall within the permissible
“safe” limits of currently promulgated safety standards and protection
guidelines, The required microwave technology is mature and in general,
commercially available in many developed countries. confirming the
conclusion of earlier studies.
Furthermore,
the study showed that to generate tissue injuring level of high-power
microwave induced acoustic pressures inside the human brain, the
theoretical microwave pulse induced temperature elevation would be
substantially below 1o C (see Table 2), which is again “safe” according to currently promulgated RF and microwave safety protection guidelines.
--
Editorial: Human Exposure to New-Emerging Electric, Magnetic and Electromagnetic Fields
Wu Tongning, Peng Ruiyun, Zhang Lei, Li Kun.
Editorial: Human Exposure to New-Emerging Electric, Magnetic and
Electromagnetic Fields. Frontiers in Public Health, 10, 2022. doi:
10.3389/fpubh.2022.894624.
No abstract
With
the advancement of wireless technologies and electronic/electrical
devices, humans are exposed to more complicated electric, magnetic, and
electromagnetic fields (EMF), which has raised public concerns on
potential health effects. Researchers have recently conducted a series
of studies on diverse exposure scenarios. In addition, international
standard organizations have revised safety guidelines and standards (1).
These recent results and practices can enhance our knowledge in
assessing health risks from the exposure to EMF (2). This Research Topic
consists of 14 articles (one review article, two brief research report
articles, and 11 original research articles) published in the Radiation
and Health section of Frontiers in Public Health....
Paternal Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure Causes
Sex-Specific Differences in Body Weight Trajectory and Glucose
Metabolism in Offspring Mice
Yan Song, Ju Ying, Dong Jie, Lei Hui, Wang Jun, Xu Qian, Ma Yefei, Wang Jingjing, Wang Xiaohong.
Paternal Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure Causes
Sex-Specific Differences in Body Weight Trajectory and Glucose
Metabolism in Offspring Mice. Frontiers in Public Health. 10, 2022.
doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.872198.
Abstract
Nowadays,
concerns about the harmful effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic
radiation (RF-EMR) on male fertility and offspring health are growing.
In the present study, we investigated the effects of long-term exposure
(at least 10 weeks) to the RF-EMR [2.0 GHz; power density, 2.5 W/m2;
whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR), 0.125–0.5 W/kg] on male mice
fertility and F1 growth and glucose metabolism. No significant injuries
were observed in testis organization, sperm quality, and pregnancy rate.
However, mice exposed to RF-EMR exhibited a significantly elevated
apoptosis rate in testis germ cells. Interestingly, paternal RF-EMR
exposure resulted in sex-specific weight trajectory differences and
glucose metabolism changes in male F1 mice but not in female F1 mice.
The changed glucose metabolism in F1 male may result from the altered
gene expression of liver Gck. These data collectively suggested that 2.0
GHz RF-EMR whole-body exposure of male mice does not cause obvious
impairment in testis, sperm quality, and pregnancy rate. Paternal RF-EMR
exposure causes male-specific alterations in body weight trajectories
and glucose metabolism of F1.
Measurement and Exposure Assessment of Intermediate Frequency
Magnetic Fields From Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) Gates in
Libraries
Ikuyo Miwa, Esaki Kaoru, Aimoto Atsuko, Wake
Kanako, Yamaguchi-Sekino Sachiko, Kojimahara Noriko, Suzuki Yukihisa,
Taki Masao. Measurement and Exposure Assessment of Intermediate
Frequency Magnetic Fields From Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS)
Gates in Libraries. Frontiers in Public Health. 10, 2022. doi:
10.3389/fpubh.2022.871134.
Abstract
Exposure
to magnetic fields from the electronic article surveillance (EAS) gate
was evaluated in consideration of the application to epidemiological
studies of library workers who are exposed continually to intermediate
frequency magnetic fields from the EAS gate. Two types of exposures were
investigated. One was transient exposure due to passing through or
beside the gate and another was chronic exposure in the room. We
measured magnetic fields from five EAS gate models which were commonly
used in libraries in Japan. Detailed measurements were performed for two
of them in consideration of the phase difference of vector components
of magnetic flux density. The polarization of the magnetic field in the
gate was investigated with the index of ellipticity. The induced
electric field in a human body was numerically calculated for exposures
to magnetic fields of the two gate models. The results provide a
quantitative understanding of exposures during passing through or by the
EAS gate. Magnetic field distribution was measured in a large room for
one gate model to quantify the chronic exposure of library workers
during the work at the desk. It was found that the magnetic field was
distributed as a function of the horizontal distance to the nearest
gatepost. The 45-point average value BIEC defined
by the IEC standard was suggested to be a useful quantity to
characterize the magnitude of the magnetic field from the EAS gate.
Exposures to different EAS gates are expected to be compared through
this quantity without detailed measurements. These results are expected
to provide useful means for exposure assessment of epidemiological
studies on the association between the IF-EMF exposure and possible
health outcomes.
--
Letter to the Editor “Mobile phone electromagnetic radiation and the risk of headache: a systematic review and meta‑analysis”
Jalilian, H., Dongus, S., Bosch-Capblanch, X. et al. Letter to the Editor “Mobile phone electromagnetic radiation and the risk of headache: a systematic review and meta‑analysis”.
Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2022. doi: 10.1007/s00420-022-01890-4
No abstract
In conclusion, this review has not followed a systematic approach and
should thus not be labeled as a systematic review. Calculating only an
average effect estimate based on a convenient sample of studies without
addressing potential risk of bias and not considering the duration and
level of exposure is largely uninformative.
--
Investigation of the impact of electromagnetic fields emitted close to the head by smart glasses
Philipp
Jungk, Matthias Wienke, Christoph Schiefer, Ulrich Hartmann, Volker
Harth, Claudia Terschüren, Carsten Alteköster, Daniel Friemert.
Investigation of the impact of electromagnetic fields emitted close to
the head by smart glasses.
Biomed Tech (Berl). 2022 May 17. doi: 10.1515/bmt-2021-0301.
Abstract
The functionality of smart glasses includes the
possibility of wireless communication. For this purpose, WiFi or
Bluetooth modules are integrated into the glasses. They emit
electromagnetic radiation in the vicinity of the user's head. This
simulation study investigates the impact of varying positions,
frequencies, and antenna types of the embedded WiFi or Bluetooth modules
on different tissue types in the human head. The absorption of
electromagnetic energy causes the main impact on the tissue in the head.
This physical process is best described by the specific absorption rate
SAR. To investigate the effects of position, frequency, and antenna
type on the simulated SAR values multiple simulations have been carried
out considering real-world applications of smart glasses. The results
show that the type of antenna has little effect on the SAR values of the
different tissues. The maximum regulated output powers explain the
frequencies' impact on the exposure. According to our findings, the
greatest influence on the SAR values can be attributed to the placement
of the antenna. Finally, our study reveals that positioning the antenna
at the front side of the head is optimal for most tissues because of its
maximal distance to the head tissues.
--
5G NR Base Station Exposure of the General Public: Comparison of Assessment Methods
Kenneth
Deprez, Leen Verloock, Loek Colussi, Sam Aerts, Matthias Van den
Bossche, Jos Kamer, John Bolte, Luc Martens, David Plets, Wout Joseph.
In-Situ 5G NR Base Station Exposure of the General Public: Comparison of
Assessment Methods.
Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2022 May 3;ncac061. doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncac061.
Abstract
New measurement
methods and equipment for correct 5G New Radio (NR) electromagnetic
field (EMF) in-situ exposure assessment of instantaneous time-averaged
exposure (Eavg) and maximum extrapolated field exposure (Emax) are
proposed. The different options are investigated with in-situ
measurements around 5G NR base stations (FR1) in different countries.
The maximum electric field values satisfy the ICNIRP 2020 limit (maximum
7.7%). The difference between Emax and Eavg is <3 dB for the
different measurement equipment at multiple sites in case there is only
self-generated traffic. However, in a more realistic scenario, Eavg
cannot be used to assess the exposure correctly due to influence of
other users as the spatial distribution of user equipment (UE)
influences Eavg, while Emax is not affected. However, when multiple UEs
are collocated, there is no influence of the number of UEs. A broadband
measurement can give a first impression of the RF-EMF exposure up to 700
m, but is not enough to assess the 5G-NR exposure.
Conclusions and Future Work
This
paper provides an overview of different measurement equipment and
optimal settings that can be used to correctly perform in-situ 5G NR
electromagnetic field exposure assessment at 3.5 GHz (FR1). Both
time-averaged exposure and maximum extrapolated field exposure
assessment are proposed and investigated with in-situ measurements in
different countries. The maximum electric field values satisfy the
ICNIRP 2020 limit (i.e. maximum 7.7%). Furthermore, in a low-traffic
environment, one UE is sufficient to attract the beam towards the
measurement equipment. The difference between Emax and Eavg is <3 dB
for the different measurement equipment at multiple sites. Hence, the
current setups are to be recommended in 5G-NR exposure assessment in the
current low-traffic scenarios. In a more realistic scenario, not all
measurement methods are valid and must thus be adapted. When Eavg is
used as metric, the exposure assessment drops with 6 dB when four UEs
are spatially separated. However, Emax is not affected by the spatially
separated UEs (difference of 0.60 dB between the various measurements)
and is the recommended metric to use for exposure assessment in
high-traffic environments.A
broadband measurement can give a first impression of the RF-EMF
environment up to 700 m (deviations of 0.05–4.86 dB), but is limited in
use (larger separations) and not enough to assess the 5G-NR field
exposure.
The future work can be divided into
two main parts. The first part is to test the measurement methods and
equipment in more realistic, higher traffic environments. This will give
a more accurate view on the impact of 5G NR on everyday RF-EMF
exposure. The second part is to test the measurement methods for the frequency range 2 of 5G-NR (FR2), i.e. mm-waves. Here, more beams, higher bandwidths and more traffic are expected.
On the Exposure Dose Minimization of Multi-antenna Multi-carrier System Users
F. Heliot, T. Brown. On the Exposure Dose Minimization of Multi-antenna Multi-carrier System Users. IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology.
Apr 27, 2022.
doi: 10.1109/TVT.2022.3170606.
Abstract
From the fourth generation (4G) of cellular systems onward, wireless
personal devices (WPDs) support multi-input multi-output (MIMO)
communication. However, the impact of MIMO communication on the
electromagnetic field (EMF) of WPD users has yet to be fully understood
and analyzed at the system level. In this paper, we first provide a
generic model for assessing the individual exposure dose of
multi-antenna WPD users in a multi-user multi-carrier communication
system. An optimization framework for minimizing this exposure dose is
then developed based on our exposure model. This framework helps us to
identify a new criterion, i.e., the ratio between the normalized
exposure dose and the channel to noise ratio (CNR), as the main system
level criterion for minimizing the individual exposure dose of
multi-antenna WPD users. This criterion is further integrated in the
design of two novel centralized resource allocation schemes that take
advantage of the multiple antennas at the WPD to minimize the per-user
exposure dose, when full or limited knowledge of each user channel is
available. Our new schemes can significantly reduce the individual
exposure dose of WPD users (by approximately $80\%$) in comparison with
the most relevant existing resource allocation schemes. Our results also
provide insights into the logarithmic relationship between the per-user
exposure dose and the number of receive antennas (or the number of time
slots), and how such a parameter can be exploited to further reduce the
exposure and/or provide a higher SE while maintaining a low exposure
dose.
--
Methodology to determine threshold distance for estimating main electromagnetic exposure in wireless local area network (WiFi)
Marta
Fernández, David Guerra. Methodology for determining the threshold
distance for estimating the main EM exposure contribution in WLAN.
Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal. Volume 25,
2022, 100997. doi:10.1016/j.jestch.2021.05.001.
Abstract
The
location of radiation sources in wireless networks is a key factor to
characterize their contribution to electromagnetic exposure levels in
order to deploy future networks that account for minimizing
electromagnetic field levels. In relation to wireless local area
networks, considering that mobile communication devices comply with the
SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) limits imposed by the international
standardization organizations for preserving human health, the interest
is nowadays focused on the signal levels coming from the WiFi access
points. This paper presents a methodology to determine the threshold
distance at which the field strength levels from the AP are negligible
in comparison with the radiation generated by a user equipment. The
theoretical concepts, which can be applied to other technologies, were
implemented by means of simulations and experimental measurements. For
the simulations, actual WiFi antennas were modelled. Experimental
measurements completed the results obtained in simulations, resulting in
a greater number of real situations. Results showed that the threshold
distance depends on the WiFi standard employed by the devices connected
to the network.
--
Quasi-Deterministic Channel Propagation Model for 60 GHz Urban WiFi Access from Light Poles
S.Y. Jun, C. Lai, D. Caudill, J. Wang, J. Senic, N. Varshney, C.
Gentile. Quasi-Deterministic Channel Propagation Model for
60 GHz Urban WiFi Access from Light Poles. IEEE Antennas and Wireless
Propagation Letters. Published online Apr 29, 2022. doi:
10.1109/LAWP.2022.3171503.
Abstract
There
is strong impetus by the Telecom Infra Project to exploit the 60 GHz
unlicensed band for public WiFi in urban environments, by installing
access points on light poles. Although many 60 GHz urban channel
measurements have been recorded to date, they have resulted only in path
loss models or RMS delay spreads. What is needed at millimeter-wave is a
spatially consistent channel model for beamtracking that embodies the
characteristics of these short wavelengths sparsity and rough surface
scattering such as the Quasi-Deterministic model. In this letter, we fit
the model to channel measurements we recorded in an urban environment.
The measurements were recorded at 4 m, 6 m, and 9 m antenna heights to
investigate the tradeoffs between light pole heights. The large-scale
channel metrics between the model and the measurements were shown to
match very well.
--
Effects of
Long-Term and Multigeneration Exposure of Caenorhabditis elegans to
9.4 GHz Microwaves
Sun A, Zhao X, Li Z, Gao Y, Liu Q, Zhou H, Dong G, Wang C. Effects of
Long-Term and Multigeneration Exposure of Caenorhabditis elegans to
9.4 GHz Microwaves. Bioelectromagnetics. 2022 May 11. doi:
10.1002/bem.22409.
Abstract
A large number of studies on the biological effects of microwaves are
carried out using rodents and cells, but the conditions are difficult to
control, and the irradiation period is short; the results obtained have
always been controversial and difficult to reproduce. In this study, we
expose nematodes to an electromagnetic environment for a long-term and
multigeneration period to explore the possible biological effects.
Wild-type N2 strains of Caenorhabditis elegans are exposed to 9.4 GHz
microwaves at a specific adsorption rate of 4 W/kg for 10 h per day from
L1 larvae to adults. Then, adult worms are washed off, and the laid
eggs are kept to hatch L1 larvae, which are continuously exposed to
microwaves until passing through 20 generations. The worms of the 10th,
15th, and 20th generations are collected for index detection.
Interestingly, we found that the fecundity of C. elegans decreased
significantly in the exposed group from the 15th generation. At the same
time, we found that the growth of C. elegans decreased, motility
decreased, and oxidative stress occurred in the exposed group from the
10th generation, which may play roles in the decreased spawning in
worms. We preliminarily believe that the microwave energy received by
worms leads to oxidative stress, which causes a decrease in the spawning
rate, and the underlying mechanism needs to be further studied.
--
Semi-quantitative
methodology to assess health and safety risks arising from exposure to
electromagnetic fields up to 300 GHz at workplaces according to Italian
regulations
Laura Filosa, Vanni Lopresto.
Semi-quantitative methodology to assess health and safety risks arising
from exposure to electromagnetic fields up to 300 GHz at workplaces
according to Italian regulations.
Int J Occup Saf Ergon. 2022 May 16;1-41. doi: 10.1080/10803548.2022.2077511.
3557482410803548.2022.2077511.
Abstract
This paper is
focused a semi-quantitative methodology to assess and manage the health
and safety risks arising from exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF)
up to 300 GHz at workplaces as well as to identify the priorities of
intervention, based on the requirements of European directive 2013/35/EU
and Italian regulations. The study includes a synthetic overview on the
effects arising from EMF exposure and the related regulatory framework
on protection. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis is carried-out on the
risk assessment process as well as on the technical and organisational
measures for risk mitigation and their adaptation to the specific
requirements of workers at particular risk, based on technical standards
and best practice guides issued by international and national (Italian)
standardisation bodies.
Conclusions
The EMF risk assessment process outlined in this paper takes into
account the provisions of Directive 2013/35/EU [32] and of technical
standard EN 50499:2019 [48], as well as the peculiar requirements of
Italian regulations as referred to in the Framework Law 36/2001 [43] and
relevant implementation decrees [41][42] along with the Legislative
Decree 81/2008 and s.m.a. [39]. To this end, a useful compass to assess
and manage EMF exposure at workplaces taking into account the specific
provisions of Italian regulations is represented by the EMF Guide CEI
106-45 [44].
A semi-quantitative methodology for EMF risk
assessment is proposed based on a two-dimensional matrix for risk
analysis. The matrix reports the indexes of risk calculated as the
product of the severity rate of a dangerous event and the likelihood of
occurrence of such an event. The severity rating assigned to the effect
should reflect the expected outcome of the hazardous event, meanwhile
the probability of occurrence should take into account a number
of factors related to the workplace and work practice. In relation to
assessed index of risk can be identified the prevention and protection
measures for risk mitigation as well as the intervention priorities,
which shall be adapted to the workers at particular risk. The outcomes
of the risk assessment process should be documented in the risk
assessment report along with the improvement actions included in the
Company Program for the Reduction of Exposure to EMF.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35574824/
--
Evaluation
of oxidative stress and genotoxicity of 900 MHz electromagnetic
radiations using Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) test system
Surbhi Sharma, Shalini Bahel, Jatinder Kaur Katnoria.
Evaluation of oxidative stress and genotoxicity of 900 MHz
electromagnetic radiations using Trigonella foenum-graecum test system. Protoplasma. 2022 May 11. doi: 10.1007/s00709-022-01768-9.
Abstract
Unprecedented growth in the communication sector
and expanded usage of the number of wireless devices in the past few
decades have resulted in a tremendous increase in emissions of
non-ionizing electromagnetic radiations (EMRs) in the environment. The
widespread EMRs have induced many significant changes in biological
systems leading to oxidative stress as well as DNA damage. Considering
this, the present study was planned to study the effects of EMRs at 900
MHz frequency with the power density of 10.0 dBm (0.01 W) at variable
exposure periods (0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 8 h per day for 7 days) on
percentage germination, morphological characteristics, protein content,
lipid peroxidation in terms of malondialdehyde content (MDA), and
antioxidant defense system of Trigonella foenum-graecum test system. The
genotoxicity was also evaluated using similar conditions. It was
observed that EMRs significantly decreased the germination percentage at
an exposure time of 4 h and 8 h. Fresh weight and dry weight of root
and shoot did not show significant variations, while the root and shoot
length have shown significant variations for 4 h and 8 h exposure
period. Further, EMRs enhanced MDA indicating lipid peroxidation. In
response to exposure of EMRs, there was a significant up-regulation in
the activities of enzymes such as ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide
dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), guaiacol peroxidase
(POD), and glutathione reductase (GR) in the roots and shoots of
Trigonella-foenum graecum. The genotoxicity study showed the induction
of chromosomal aberrations in root tip cells of the Trigonella
foenum-graecum test system. The present study revealed the induction of
oxidative stress and genotoxicity of EMRs exposure in the test system.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35546647/
--
A Systematic Method to Explore Radio-Frequency Non-Thermal Effect on the
Growth of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
D. Ye, G. Cutter, T. P. Caldwell, S. W. Harcum, P. Wang. A Systematic
Method to Explore Radio-Frequency Non-Thermal Effect on the
Growth of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae.IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology. 6(1):52-60. March 2022, doi: 10.1109/JERM.2021.3101408.
Abstract
Radio frequency (RF) non-thermal (NT) bio-effects have been a subject
of debate and attracted significant interests due to potential health
risks or beneficial applications. In this work, we report a systematic
method for broadband investigation of RF NT effects on
Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast growth. The
method includes a transverse electro-magnetic (TEM) device and a
dielectric spectroscopy technique for RF frequency selection. A
stripline-based TEM device has two
240-μL chambers 3D printed for
cell cultures. The fabricated device operates up to a few GHz and
produces uniform RF fields for cell exposure testing. A vector network
analyzer (VNA) was used to provide ~20 dBm continuous-wave
(CW) RF power. The heating effects on cell growth were estimated to be
negligible. Frequency regions, where large permittivity differences
between the medium and yeast cultures were obtained and used to select
RF testing frequencies, e.g., 1.0 MHz,
3.162 MHz, 10 MHz. These differences may indicate RF field gradients
near cell membrane, and the gradients may affect local nutrient
transport. Additionally, RF at 905 MHz is tested for comparison purpose.
Yeast cells in the exponential growth phase were examined at four RF
frequencies and compared with two controls. One control device held at
the same temperature as the test device, while the other control was
held at a temperature 1 degree C higher. The results showed that
the RF fields at 3.162 MHz reduced yeast growth rates by
15.1%; however, the RF fields at 1.0 MHz enhanced cell growth
by 13.7%, while the observed 4.3% growth rate
increase at 10 MHz is insignificant and the RF fields at 905 MHz had no
effects on the cell growth. These results showed a clear RF NT effects
on S. cerevisiae growth that was frequency
dependent. The hypothesized mechanisms of these effects, i.e.,
non-uniform RF fields near cell membranes and fluidic diodes in cell
membrane ion channels may play important roles in nutrient transport,
need to be further investigated.
--
Comparison of the effect of changing the spatial distance with exposure
time to mobile phones radiation on the structure and function of the
testis in NMRI mice
Homa Soleimani, Mahbobeh Gafori Ghadarijani, Fatemeh Rafiei, Parvindokht
Bayat. Comparison of the effect of changing the spatial distance with
exposure time to mobile phones radiation on the structure and function
of the testis in NMRI mice. Journal of Microwave Power and
Electromagnetic Energy, 56(2):87-102. 2022. doi:10.1080/08327823.2022.2066769.
Abstract
The present study was conducted to compare the effect of changing the
spatial distance and time radio frequency (RF) radiation from mobile
phone in standby mode on the structure and function of testicles. NMRI
mice were randomly divided into three groups. The first group was the
control and the second group (exposed group) was divided into four
subgroups: groups A (A1 and A2) and groups B (B1 and B2), which were
placed in plastic holder units at two distances of 5 cm and 20 cm from
RF radiation, respectively. A1 and B1, and A2 and B2 were exposed to RF
radiation for six and 10 weeks, respectively. The exposure duration was
5 days/week, 6 hours/day. The third group with two subgroups (sham1 and
sham2) were kept in plastic holder units without being exposed to
radiation and were evaluated after six and 10 weeks, respectively. The
changes in the external diameters of seminiferous tubules and the height
of germinal epithelium obviously depended more on the distance from the
radiation source than on the exposure time. The decrease in the
diameter of the testicles and sperm motility were found to be
time-dependent. These effects had a clear but unpredictable dependence
on the two variables of distance and RF radiation time.
Excerpts
The intensity of waves was measured at a distance of 5 and 20 cm every
10 seconds in water within 6 minutes (the time of thermal balance of
human body, at a density similar to the body density). Measurement of
the electromagnetic field intensity showed that the mean value in both
cases, without mobile phone (1.39 μW/m2) and with the mobile
phone, in standby mode at a distance of 20 cm were almost equal.
However, the amount of electromagnetic field fluctuated over time in the
presence of a mobile phone (Table 1)....
We also exhibited that each of the factors of stress and radiation
alone led to a significant decrease in sperm motility (Grade 1 and 2).
Meanwhile, the effects of stress and RF field were not synergistic.
Moreover, sperm motility (Grade 1) in sham2 group was not significantly
different with that in control group. This may be attributed to the
adaptation of biological tissues to stressor factors.
It seemed as
though the effect of RF field and decreased distance from the radiation
source leads to a decrease in the rate of sperm in Grades 1 and 2 and
an increase rate sperm in Grades 3 and 4. According to the obtained
results, the effect of the RF exposure on sperm motility might probably
change according to the distance from the radiation source, which is
more important than the exposure time.
Conclusion
This research shed light on the fact that although decreased distance or
increased irradiation time led to histological or physiological changes
in the structure and function of the male reproductive system, these
effects were not similar. These changes had significant impacts, but
unforeseeable dependence, on the two variables of distance and radiation
time of mobile phone in standby mode. Our findings also depicted the
significant and superior role of stress against mobile phone radiation
in the decrease in the diameter of testis, sperm motility, and the
reduction in sperm count. Furthermore, stress was the predominant factor
in comparison with radiation exposure and once the stress was
eliminated due to the habituation of the animal, the biological effects
of radiation exposure on the tissue became detectable.
--
Preliminary Chronic Effects of Radiation from Mobile Phones on Heart Rate Variability, Cardiac
Function, Blood Profiles, and Semen Quality in Healthy Dogs
Dong VNK, Tantisuwat L, Setthawong P, Tharasanit T, Sutayatram S,
Kijtawornrat A. The Preliminary Chronic Effects of Electromagnetic
Radiation from Mobile Phones on Heart Rate Variability, Cardiac
Function, Blood Profiles, and Semen Quality in Healthy Dogs. Vet Sci.
2022 Apr 21;9(5):201. doi: 10.3390/vetsci9050201.
Abstract
The present study aims to determine the effects of long-term exposure to
electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones (MPs) on heart rate
variability (HRV), cardiac function, blood profiles, body surface
temperature, and semen quality in healthy dogs. Eight male dogs were
exposed to MPs (1962-1966 MHz; specific absorption rate 0.96 W/kg) for 2
h/day, 5 days/week, for 10 weeks. Holter monitoring for HRV analysis
was performed at baseline (BL) and every 2 weeks, until the end of the
study. Electrocardiograms (ECG), blood pressure (BP), echocardiography,
cardiac troponin I (cTnI), hematology and biochemistry profiles, body
surface temperature, and semen quality were evaluated at BL, week 5, and
week 10 during exposure. The results showed that most of the HRV
parameters did not significantly differ among timepoints, except for the
mean of an interval between continuous normal R waves in week 6 that
was higher than that at BL (p = 0.022). The RR and QT intervals from ECG in week 5 were prolonged, compared to the BL values (p = 0.001 and p
= 0.003, respectively), but those parameters were within the normal
limits. The echocardiography, BP, cTnI concentrations, body surface
temperature, and semen quality results were not different from BL
values. In conclusion, this study found no evidence suggesting an
adverse effect of cell phone exposure on HRV, cardiac function, blood
profiles, body surface temperature, or semen quality in healthy dogs,
when exposed for 10 weeks.
--
Experimental Evidence of Radio Frequency Radiation From Staphylococcus
aureus Biofilms
M. Rao, K. Sarabandi, J. Soukar, N. A. Kotov and J. S. VanEpps.
Experimental Evidence of Radio Frequency Radiation From Staphylococcus
aureus Biofilms.IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology, doi: 10.1109/JERM.2022.3168618.
Abstract
This paper reports the first successful detection of electromagnetic
(EM) radiation from Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in the gigahertz
(GHz) frequency range. Two novel sensing systems are deployed for the
measurement. A very sensitive wideband near-zone radiative system
specifically designed for this application is first used to search for
signals in the 1–50 GHz frequency region. Notable radiation is observed
in the 3–4 GHz band. Exposure to lethal doses of Zinc oxide nanopyramids
(ZnO-NPY) is used to verify that the signals are indeed produced by
living cells rather than material thermal emission. Afterwards, a spiral
antenna system is exploited to further examine the band of interest in
the near-field region. Radiation from 3 identical biofilm samples is
monitored and recorded over 70 days. Two distinct frequency bands,
namely the 3.18 GHz and the 3.45 GHz bands, are identified as potential
“communication bands”. Furthermore, long-term and short-term cycles of
the total radiation intensity within the band are observed over the
course of the experiment. This work confirms the presence of EM
radiation within bacterial communities, which is a key requirement to
demonstrate EM signaling among bacterial cells. The insight could lead
to breakthroughs in demystifying how cells communicate as well as
advancement of important technologies in biology and communication
systems.
Conclusion
Although it has long been suggested that biological cells may transmit
and receive EM waves, no prior convincing experimental evidence has been
generated to support this hypothesis prior to this paper. Our work
is the first successful attempt to measure EM radiation from S. aureus
biofilms in the GHz frequency range. Two measurement systems are used in
the experiments. Two distinct radiating bands in the 3-4 GHz frequency
range are identified. Over the course of a 70-day experiment, we
discovered a long-term cycle of the radiated signal with short-term fluctuations.
This work proves the existence of EM radiation in biofilm communities,
which is validated by examining multiple samples over a long period of
time and comparing the measured power with that of PNG media (no
biofilms) in the same petri dish. In addition, it is shown that exposing
biofilms with significant RF radiation to lethal doses of ZnO-NPYs,
which inhibits metabolic activity, eliminates the biofilm RF emission.
--
Exposure effects of non-ionizing radiation of radio waves on antimicrobial potential of medicinal plants
Chandni Upadhyaya, Trushit Upadhyaya,
Ishita Patel. Exposure effects of non-ionizing radiation of radio waves
on antimicrobial potential of medicinal plants. Journal of Radiation
Research and Applied Sciences. 15(1):1-10. 2022.
doi:10.1016/j.jrras.2022.01.009.
Abstract
The high
frequency electromagnetic (EM) waves have been proven as potent
environmental polluters. The radio towers are considerably increasing to
cater to the growing telecommunication requirements. The presented
research focuses on the investigation of EM waves on antimicrobial
potential of pharmaceutically important medicinal plants viz. Tulsi
(Ocimum sanctum L.) and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri). The similar work has
not been reported till date at the best of our knowledge. The medicinal
plants were exposed to EM waves of 900 MHz possessing a 1.9 mG magnetic
field. Our former investigation on plant physiology gave deteriorative
effects on selected plants physiology in terms of growth, chlorophyll
content, protein and carbohydrate content. In the presented article, the
antimicrobial activity of two plants was inspected through various
bacterial and fungal species. In case of B. monnieri, investigations
revealed raise in Zone of Inhibition (ZOI) for both the bacterial and
fungal strains in the range of 50%, whereas for O. sanctum increase of
63.26% and 59.42% ZOI for bacterial and fungal strains were noted
respectively upon 24 h of exposure. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration
(MIC) also decreased for 24 and 48 h of exposure. The transient raise in
antimicrobial activity indicated the induction of plant defense system
which can be considered as positive influence of short term radiation on
medicinal properties of plants. Both plants exhibited the highest
antimicrobial potential for E. coli and P. chrysogenum showing a
prominent decline after 72 h of exposure. A substantial decline in
antimicrobial in MIC of B. monnieri reported was 211% against E. coli
and 166% against P. chrysogenum upon 144 h of exposure compared to
control plants. The antimicrobial potential of O. sanctum was also
decreased upon radiation, which is having a 392% reduction against E.
coli and a 225% reduction against P. chrysogenum upon 144 h of exposure.
The noteworthy deteriorative effects of radio waves on antimicrobial
potential have been observed for both the medicinal plants.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1687850722001091
--
Preliminary
Study: the Electromagnetics Radiation from Epipremnum Aureum (Money Plant) Using
Frequency Detector
F. A. A. Shahrien, Z. H. Murat, R. S. S. A. Kadir. Preliminary
Study: the Electromagnetics Radiation (EMR) from Epipremnum Aureum Using
Frequency Detector. 2021 6th IEEE International Conference on Recent Advances and Innovations in Engineering (ICRAIE), 2021, pp. 1-5, doi: 10.1109/ICRAIE52900.2021.9703990.
Abstract
Epipremnum Aureum or money plant is a popular indoor plant known to
emanate positive energy flow into space. Energy or aura is essentially
the frequency radiated from a body, including from plants, and
scientifically known as Electromagnetics Radiation (EMR). This
preliminary study is to investigate the EMR pattern from money plant
using frequency detector. The EMR are measured in a common sized room
during five specific time range each day for three weeks with the
presence of money plants and for two weeks without money plants
(absence). The seven observation points of the EMR are taken around the
money plant and in the middle of the room. The results shows that the
EMR increases by 24% in the presence of money plant. This finding
asserts that money plant radiates and influence the EMR frequency to
increase in the surrounding.
--
Magnetic field interactions
between current consumer electronics and cardiac implantable electronic
devices
Xu K, Sengupta J, Casey S, Peltier J, Stahl W, Peterson N, Settimi D,
Taylor A, Kippola J, Steele E, Hauser R. Magnetic field interactions
between current consumer electronics and cardiac implantable electronic
devices. J Interv Card Electrophysiol. 2022 May 10. doi:
10.1007/s10840-022-01241-w.
Abstract
Background:
Electronic products, including the iPhone 12, Apple Watch Series 6, and
2nd Generation AirPods, contain magnets to facilitate wireless
charging. Permanent magnets may affect CIED magnet mode features by
causing pacemakers to pace asynchronously and defibrillators to suspend
arrhythmia detection. This study determined if CIEDs are affected by
static magnetic fields from commonly used portable electronics (PE) at
any distance and intends to reinforce FDA recommendations concerning
consumer PE which contain permanent magnets.
Methods: The maximum
magnet field measurement was evaluated by a Gauss meter. The
interaction between PE and CIEDs from Boston Scientific and Medtronic
were tested ex vivo using a body torso model. The CIED was placed in
physiologic saline, and the PE was placed at the surface and at
increasing distances of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 cm. Interactions were recorded
by assessment of magnet mode status.
Results: The iPhone 12 had
almost three times the static magnetic field measured at the surface as
the iPhone XR, but magnetic field strength decreased dramatically with
increasing distance. At the surface of the model, PE triggered magnet
mode in all CIEDs. The maximum interaction distance for all combinations
of CIEDs and Apple products was 1.5 cm.
Conclusions: The iPhone
12 produces a stronger static magnetic field than previous iPhone
models. Magnets in PE tested will not interact with CIEDs when they are
15 cm from the implanted device. Since no interaction was observed
beyond 1.5 cm, it is unlikely that magnet mode activation will occur
during most daily activities.
--
Exposure of Infants to Gradient Fields in a Baby MRI Scanner
Fangfang Tang, Luca Giaccone, Jiahao Hao, Fabio Freschi, Tongning Wu, Stuart Crozier, Feng Liu.
Exposure of Infants to Gradient Fields in a Baby MRI Scanner.
Bioelectromagnetics. 2022 Feb;43(2):69-80. doi: 10.1002/bem.22387.
Abstract
In
pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), infants are exposed to
rapid, time-varying gradient magnetic fields, leading to electric fields
induced in the body of infants and potential safety risks (e.g.
peripheral nerve stimulation). In this numerical study, the in situ
electric fields in infants induced by small-sized gradient coils for a
1.5 T MRI scanner were evaluated. The gradient coil set was specially
designed for the efficient imaging of infants within a small-bore (baby)
scanner. The magnetic flux density and induced electric fields by the
small x, y, z gradient coils in an infant model (8-week-old with a mass
of 4.3 kg) were computed using the scalar potential finite differences
method. The gradient coils were driven by a 1 kHz sinusoidal waveform
and also a trapezoidal waveform with a 250 µs rise time. The model was
placed at different scan positions, including the head area (position
I), chest area (position II), and body center (position III). It was
found that the induced electric fields in most tissues exceeded the
basic restrictions of the ICNIRP 2010 guidelines for both waveforms. The
electric fields were similar in the region of interest for all coil
types and model positions but different outside the imaging region. The
y-coil induced larger electric fields compared with the x- and z- coils.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35005795/
Conclusions
In this paper, we have numerically studied the field exposure of an infant model inside the baby x, y, z gradient coils during an MRI scan. The B-fields
have exceeded the reference level 0.08 mT in most tissues for the
frequency 1 kHz in ICNIRP 2010 guidelines. Based on the simulation
results, it has been found that baby positioning primarily affected the
induced E-field profiles. In most tissues, the EI values
are larger than 1, indicating that the exposures have exceeded the
reference level 0.4 V/m in ICNIRP 2010 guidelines for the frequency of
1 kHz. The largest E99.9% and EI are 5.41 V/m and 9.56, found in fat produced by y-coil in position III. The EI
is determined based on the basic restrictions of ICNIRP 2010
guidelines; the results are possibly conservative as applicable
guidelines/restrictions are not yet accessible for exposure of infants
in MRI gradient fields.
The field exposure varies due to the variation of the
driving current and rise time. It is likely stronger when all three
gradient coils are switched faster and simultaneously during a realistic
MRI scan. Further work is required to characterize more realistic
field-infant tissue interactions with detailed nerve models, and it is
hoped that these simulations will help inform compliance of clinical
procedures.
--
The
effect of exposure to non-ionising radiofrequency field on Escherichia
coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms
Dobroslava Bujňáková, Samuel Bucko, Marek Češkovič, Vladimír Kmeť, Lívia Karahutová.
The effect of exposure to non-ionising radiofrequency field on
Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm.
Environ Technol. 2022 May 4;1-21. doi: 10.1080/09593330.2022.2074317.
Abstract
An environment with a higher accumulation of
electromagnetic non-ionising radiofrequency (RF) emissions generated by
various telecommunication, data transport and navigation devices (mobile
phones, Wi-Fi, radar, etc.) may have a major impact on biological
systems. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of an
electromagnetic field (EMF) on the development of bacterial biofilm.
Quantification of biofilm production was done by using microtiter plate
assay. Bacterial isolates of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa were exposed with EMF of frequencies 1-5 and 2.4
GHz with an exposure time 3 or 24 hours, respectively. Exposure of
bacteria to EMF produced a statistically significant increase in biofilm
production mainly at 1, 2 and 4 GHz, and in contrast, a significant
inhibition of biofilm development occurred at frequencies 3 and 5 GHz,
both with exception of Klebsiella oxytoca and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Wi-Fi operating at 2.4 GHz caused biofilm reduction. The results
indicate that EMF exposure act on bacteria in both ways, depending on
the frequency: as stressful by enhancing bacterial biofilm formation
(under environmental stress, bacteria produce a polysaccharide matrix
and aggregate to form biofilms to increase virulence and resistance),
although some frequencies leading to biofilm damage could be caused by
changes to the physicochemical properties of bacteria.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the results of our study revealed that EMF can stimulate/inhibit the ability of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
to form biofilms, depending on the frequency and/or specific type of
bacteria used. Based on the acquired results of the biofilm modulation
(increasing/decreasing) EMF can also be expected to influencs the
pathogenicity of microorganisms, since biofilm-associated bacteria are
considered more resistant and difficult to treat; however, some results
demonstrated EMF as a potential tool for biofilm removal, for example,
on medical devices and biomaterials. Further studies are in progress
(and need to be performed) to extend the current state of knowledge of
the influence of EMF on microorganisms and to gather more information on
other bacterial biological changeovers that may occur due to exposure
to EMF, including antibiotic susceptibility (resistance) as a next
substantial factor of bacterial pathogenicity. Undervaluing the problem
of exposure to electromagnetic non-ionising RF radiation generated by
various telecommunication and data transport as common part of the
environment could lead to a further rise in infectious diseases or their
complications.
--
Thapsigargin blocks electromagnetic field-elicited intracellular Ca 2+ increase in HEK 293 cells
Federico
Bertagna, Rebecca Lewis, S Ravi P Silva, Johnjoe McFadden, Kamalan
Jeevaratnam. Thapsigargin blocks electromagnetic field-elicited
intracellular Ca 2+ increase in HEK 293 cells.
Physiol Rep. 2022 May;10(9):e15189. doi: 10.14814/phy2.15189.
Abstract
Biological effects of electromagnetic
fields (EMFs) have previously been identified for cellular proliferation
and changes in expression and conduction of diverse types of ion
channels. The major effect elicited by EMFs seems to be directed toward
Ca2+ homeostasis. This is particularly remarkable since Ca2+ acts as a
central modulator in various signaling pathways, including, but not
limited to, cell differentiation and survival. Despite this, the
mechanisms underlying this modulation have yet to be unraveled. Here, we
assessed the effect of EMFs on intracellular [Ca2+ ], by exposing HEK
293 cells to both radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) and
static magnetic fields (SMFs). We detected a constant and significant
increase in [Ca2+ ] subsequent to exposure to both types of fields.
Strikingly, the increase was nulled by administration of 10 μM
Thapsigargin, a blocker of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ -ATPases
(SERCAs), indicating the involvement of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)
in EMF-related modulation of Ca2+ homeostasis.
Open access paper: https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.14814/phy2.15189
--
Extremely low frequency magnetic field enhances expression of a specific recombinant protein in bacterial host
Behnaz Rashidieh, Alireza Madjid Ansari, Mahdi Behdani, Behrad Darvishi, Mahdi Habibi-Anbouhi.
Extremely low frequency magnetic field enhances expression of a specific recombinant protein in bacterial host.
Anal Biochem. 2022 May 21;114745. doi: 10.1016/j.ab.2022.114745.
Abstract
Expression
of proteins in bacterial host cells, particularly E.coli, has gained
much attention in recent years. Low expression outcome is the main
technical drawback associated with this procedure, further restricting
its largescale application in industry. Therefore, application of new
amendments or reformations are required before further proceedings.
Extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) have shown to
significantly affect biological processes, including gene expression, in
E.coli. In current study, we investigated whether application of ELF-MF
could result in overexpression of proteins in E.coli or not. Cluster of
differentiation-22 (CD22), as a model protein, was expressed in E.Coli
Rosetta (DE3) under continuous exposure to ELF-MF after applying various
concentrations of Isopropyl ß-d-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG)
(0.25-1.25 mM) as inducer. The strength and frequency of electromagnetic
fields (EMFs) ranged between 15-100 mT and 2.5-20 Hz respectively.
Interestingly, application of 55mT EMFs with frequencies ranging from
2.5 to 2.8 Hz significantly enhanced the yield of expression at all
studied IPTG concentrations. Contrarily, EMFs with intensities other
than 55 mT meaningfully declined protein expression at IPTG
concentrations equal to 1 and 1.25 mM. In conclusion, application of
specific range of ELF-MFs may be exploited as a new modification for
enhancing heterologous expression of proteins in E.coli.
--
Commercial outdoor plant nurseries as a confounder for electromagnetic fields and childhood leukemia risk
A Nguyen, C M Crespi, X Vergara, L Kheifets.
Commercial outdoor plant nurseries as a confounder for electromagnetic fields and childhood leukemia risk.
Environ Res. 2022 May 10;212(Pt C):113446. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113446.
Highlights
• Close proximity to plant nurseries is a potential childhood leukemia risk factor.
• Proximity to nurseries did not explain distance to power lines and CL associations.
• Proximity to nurseries did not explain magnetic field and CL associations.
• First detailed study of pesticides as a confounder for magnetic fields and CL.
Abstract
Background: Close residential
proximity to powerlines and high magnetic fields exposure may be
associated with elevated childhood leukemia risks as reported by prior
studies and pooled analyses. Magnetic fields exposure from high-voltage
powerlines is associated with proximity to these powerlines and
consequently with any factor varying with distance. Areas underneath
powerlines in California may be sites for commercial plant nurseries
that can use pesticides, a potential childhood leukemia risk factor.
Objectives:
Assess if potential pesticide exposure from commercial plant nurseries
is a confounder or interacts with proximity or magnetic fields exposure
from high-voltage powerlines to increase childhood leukemia risk.
Methods:
A comprehensive childhood leukemia record-based case-control study with
5788 cases and 5788 controls (born and diagnosed in California,
1986-2008) was conducted. Pesticide, powerline, and magnetic field
exposure assessment utilized models that incorporated geographical
information systems, aerial satellite images, site visits and other
historical information.
Results: The relationship for calculated
fields with childhood leukemia (odds ratio (OR) 1.51, 95% confidence
interval (CI) 0.70-3.23) slightly attenuated when controlling for
nursery proximity (OR 1.43, 95% CI 0.65-3.16) or restricting analysis to
subjects living far (>300 m) from nurseries (OR 1.43, 95% CI
0.79-2.60). A similar association pattern was observed between distance
to high-voltage powerlines and childhood leukemia. The association
between nursery proximity and childhood leukemia was unchanged or only
slightly attenuated when controlling for calculated fields or powerline
distance; ORs remained above 2 when excluding subjects with high
calculated fields or close powerline proximity (OR 2.16, 95% CI
0.82-5.67 and OR 2.15, 95% CI 0.82-5.64, respectively). The observed
relationships were robust to different time periods, reference
categories, and cut points.
Discussion: Close residential
proximity to nurseries is suggested as an independent childhood leukemia
risk factor. Our results do not support plant nurseries as an
explanation for observed childhood leukemia risks for powerline
proximity and magnetic fields exposure, although small numbers of
subjects concurrently exposed to high magnetic fields, close powerline
proximity and plant nurseries limited our ability to fully assess
potential confounding.
Open access paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935122007733?via%3Dihub
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An overview of the biological effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields combined with ionizing radiation
Bahareh Gholipour Hamedani, Bahram Goliaei, Seyed Peyman Shariatpanahi, Maryamsadat Nezamtaheri.
An overview of the biological effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields combined with ionizing radiation.
Prog Biophys Mol Biol. 2022 May 2;S0079-6107(22)00037-2. doi: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2022.04.008.
Abstract
By
growing the electrical power networks and electronic devices,
electromagnetic fields (EMF) have become an inseparable part of the
modern world. Considering the inevitable exposure to a various range of
EMFs, especially at extremely low frequencies (ELF-EMF), investigating
the biological effects of ELF-EMFs on biological systems became a global
issue. The possible adverse consequences of these exposures were
studied, along with their potential therapeutic capabilities. Also,
their biological impacts in combination with other chemical and physical
agents, specifically ionizing radiation (IR), as a co-carcinogen or as
adjuvant therapy in combination with radiotherapy were explored. Here,
we review the results of several in-vitro and in-vivo studies and
discuss some proposed possible mechanisms of ELF-EMFs' actions in
combination with IR. The results of these experiments could be fruitful
to develop more precise safety standards for environmental ELF-EMFs
exposures. Furthermore, it could evaluate the therapeutic capacities of
ELF-EMFs alone or as an improver of radiotherapy.
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Toxicant-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Neoplastic Progress in
Rats Treated with Aflatoxin B1 Alone or in
Combination with Extremely Low Frequency EMF
Vornoli A, Tibaldi E, Gnudi F, Sgargi D,
Manservisi F, Belpoggi F, Tovoli F, Mandrioli D. Evaluation of
Toxicant-Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Liver Neoplastic Progress in
Sprague-Dawley Rats Treated with Low Doses of Aflatoxin B1 Alone or in
Combination with Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields. Toxins
(Basel). 2022 May 3;14(5):325. doi: 10.3390/toxins14050325. PMID:
35622572; PMCID: PMC9143281.
Abstract
The term toxicant-associated fatty liver disease (TAFLD) has been
proposed to describe fatty liver diseases connected to toxicants other
than alcohol. Aflatoxins are mycotoxins commonly found as contaminants
in foods and feeds, which are known liver toxicants and potential
candidates as potential causes of TAFLD. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was
administered at low doses to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, alone or in
combination with S-50 Hz an extremely low frequency electromagnetic
field (ELFEMF), to study the evolution of TAFLD, preneoplastic and
neoplastic lesions of the liver and the potential enhancing effect of
lifespan exposure to ELFEMF. Steatosis, inflammation and foci of
different types were significantly increased in both aflatoxin-treated
males and females, which is consistent with a pattern of TAFLD. A
significant increase in adenomas, cystic dilation of biliary ducts,
hepatocellular hyperplasia and hypertrophy and oval cell hyperplasia
were also observed in treated females only. The administration of low
doses of AFB1 caused TAFLD in SD rats, inducing liver lesions
encompassing fatty infiltration, foci of different types and adenomas.
Furthermore, the pattern of change observed in preneoplastic liver
lesions often included liver steatosis and steatohepatitis (TASH).
ELFEMF did not result in any enhancing or toxic effect in the liver of
SD rats.
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Lung Cell Toxicity of Co-Exposure to Airborne Particulate Matter and Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Field
Zahra
Panjali, Parviz Abdolmaleki, Behnam Hajipour, Omar Hahad, Rezvan
Zendehdel. Lung Cell Toxicity of Co-Exposure to Airborne Particulate
Matter and Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Field.
Xenobiotica. 2022 May 24;1-34. doi: 10.1080/00498254.2022.2082342.
Abstract
Although the toxic effects of urban airborne
particulate matter (PM) have been known on lung cells, there is less
attention to co-exposure to PM and extremely low frequency magnetic
(ELF-MF) in occupational settings. The present study investigated the
influences of PM and ELF-MF co-exposure on toxicity in human lung cells
(A549). In this case, total PM (TPM) was evaluated according to
NIOSH-0500. The TPM SiO2 and metal contents were determined based on
NIOSH-7602 and 7302, respectively. Besides, 900 mG ELF-MF exposure was
simulated based on field measurements. The toxicity mechanisms were
assessed by examining malondialdehyde, glutathione ratio, gene
expression, and DNA strand breaks. Also, the toxicity indicators of the
TPM samples were MDA generation, glutathione depletion, and DNA damage,
and their impacts were analyzed at doses below the LD50 (4 µg). In
addition, gene expression of OGG1 and MTH1 was upregulated after TPM
exposure at the lowest dose (2 µg). But ITPA was upregulated in the
presence of ELF-MF. The co-exposure to TPM and ELF-MF decreased
oxidative stress and DNA damage levels compared to a single exposure to
TPM. Although the ELF-MF reduced toxicity in response to TPM, this
reduction was not lower than the unexposed cells.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35608272/
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The
effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure on synthesis and release
of steroid hormones by the porcine conceptuses during the
peri-implantation period
Anita Franczak, Ewa Monika Drzewiecka, Wiktoria Kozlowska, Agata Zmijewska, Pawel Jozef Wydorski, Anna Koziorowska.
The effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure on synthesis and
release of steroid hormones by the porcine conceptuses during the
peri-implantation period.
Reprod Fertil Dev. 2022 May 2. doi: 10.1071/RD22040.
Abstract
Context: Electrical devices and power systems are the sources of EM-waves which propagate everywhere in the environment.
Aims:
The study aimed to determine whether EMF induced changes in the
steroidogenesis of conceptuses and whether progesterone (P4) may be a
possible protectant against the effects of EMF radiation.
Methods:
The entire porcine conceptuses were collected during the
peri-implantation period (days 15-16 of pregnancy), divided into
fragments (100mg) and treated in vitro with EMF (50Hz or 120Hz, 2 or 4h
exposure), and examined to determine of CYP17A1, HSD3B1, CYP19A3, and
HSD17B4 mRNA transcript and encoded protein abundance and the release of
steroid hormones. Selected fragments of conceptuses were treated with
P4.
Key results: In conceptuses incubated without P4, EMF at
120Hz decreased androstenedione (A4) and testosterone (T) release after
2h and increased oestrone (E1) release at 50Hz and 120Hz after 4h
exposure. In P4-treated conceptuses, EMF (50 and 120Hz, 4h exposure)
decreased CYP19A3 mRNA transcript abundance, and increased (120Hz, 2h
exposure) oestradiol-17β (E2) release.
Conclusions: The EMF
radiation alters androgen and oestrogen synthesis and release from the
conceptuses of pigs during the peri-implantation period. The P4 exerts
protective effects on androgens and E1 release but it sensitises the
conceptuses when comes to the mechanism of oestrogen synthesis and
release during EMF radiation.
Implications: The effect of EMF
radiation on the steroidogenic pathway in conceptuses may induce
disturbances in their proper development and implantation.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35491406/
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Scrutinizing the Impact of Alternating Electromagnetic Fields on Molecular Features of the Model Plant Arabidopsis thaliana
Sonja Michèle Schmidtpott, Saliba Danho, Vijay Kumar, Thorsten Seidel, Wolfgang Schöllhorn, Karl-Josef Dietz.
Scrutinizing the Impact of Alternating Electromagnetic Fields on Molecular Features of the Model Plant Arabidopsis thaliana.
Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Apr 23;19(9):5144. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19095144.
Abstract
Natural and anthropogenic electromagnetic fields
(EMFs) are ubiquitous in the environment and interfere with all
biological organisms including plants. Particularly the quality and
quantity of alternating EMFs from anthropogenic sources are increasing
due to the implementation of novel technologies. There is a significant
interest in exploring the impact of EMFs (similar to those emitted from
battery chargers of electric cars) on plants. The model plant
Arabidopsis thaliana was exposed to a composite alternating EMF program
for 48 h and scrutinized for molecular alterations using photosynthetic
performance, metabolite profiling, and RNA sequencing followed by
qRT-PCR validation. Clear differences in the photosynthetic parameters
between the treated and control plants indicated either lower
nonphotochemical quenching or higher reduction of the plastoquinone pool
or both. Transcriptome analysis by RNA sequencing revealed alterations
in transcript amounts upon EMF exposure; however, the gene ontology
groups of, e.g., chloroplast stroma, thylakoids, and envelope were
underrepresented. Quantitative real-time PCR validated deregulation of
some selected transcripts. More profound were the readjustments in
metabolite pool sizes with variations in photosynthetic and central
energy metabolism. These findings together with the invariable phenotype
indicate efficient adjustment of the physiological state of the
EMF-treated plants, suggesting testing for more challenging growth
conditions in future experiments.
Conclusions
EMF
exposure occurs ubiquitously on Earth and is a regular environmental
parameter all life forms have to deal with. Anthropogenic alternating
and rapidly changing EMF emission accentuate the requirement to research
the EMF–life and, as conducted here, EMF–plant interaction. The data
show that alternating EMF-exposed plants undergo significant alterations
at the levels of photosynthesis, transcriptome, and metabolome. The
underlying perception and response mechanisms to weak EMF still need
deeper scrutiny and could involve changes in cell signaling, e.g., by
interfering with Ca2+ fluxes and concentrations [57]. The changes in
photosynthetic features are remarkable particularly since the gross
growth parameters were unaltered. A profound metabolic readjustment was
detectable upon EMF exposure that would merit further experiments, both
in the context of photosynthesis and respiratory energy metabolism. The
growth conditions with about 5% of full sunlight (100 µmol photons.m−2
s−1) might not be ideal to work out possible negative effects of the EMF
treatment on plant performance. In future experiments, it would be
worthwhile to combine such EMF treatments with challenging growth
conditions, e.g., by growth in saturating light or combinatorial stress
applications [58]. Future experiments could also include the study of
early development such as seed germination and seedling establishment
similar to [57].
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Prussian blue technique is prone to yield false negative results in magnetoreception research
Franziska
Curdt, Katrin Haase, Laura Ziegenbalg, Helena Greb, Dominik Heyers,
Michael Winklhofer. Prussian blue technique is prone to yield false
negative results in magnetoreception research.
Sci Rep. 2022 May 25;12(1):8803. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-12398-9.
Abstract
Perls's Prussian blue staining technique has
been used in magnetoreception research to screen tissues for iron-rich
structures as proxies for putative magnetoreceptor structures based on
magnetic particles. However, seemingly promising structural candidates
in the upper beak of birds detected with Prussian blue turned out to be
either irreproducible or located in non-neuronal cells, which has
spurred a controversy that has not been settled yet. Here we identify
possible pitfalls in the previous works and apply the Prussian blue
technique to tissues implicated in magnetic-particle-based
magnetoreception, in an effort to reassess its suitability for staining
single-domain magnetite, i.e., the proposed magnetic substrate for the
interaction with the external magnetic field. In the upper beak of
night-migratory songbirds, we found staining products in great numbers,
but not remotely associated with fiber terminals of the traced
ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. Surprisingly, staining
products were absent from the lamina propria in the olfactory rosette of
rainbow trout where candidate magnetoreceptor structures were
identified with different techniques earlier. Critically, magnetosome
chains in whole cells of magnetotactic bacteria remained unstained. The
failure to label single-domain magnetite in positive control samples is a
serious limitation of the technique and suggests that two most
influential but antipodal studies conducted previously stood little
chances of obtaining correct positive results under the assumption that
magnetosome-like particles were present in the tissues. Nonetheless, the
staining technique appears suitable to identify tissue contamination
with iron-rich fine dust trapped in epithelia already in vivo.
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Effects of pre and postnatal 2450 MHz continuous wave (CW) radiofrequency radiation on thymus: Four generation exposure
Fazile Cantürk Tan, Betül Yalçin, Arzu Hanım Yay, Burak Tan, Korkut Yeğin, Süleyman Daşdağ.
Effects of pre and postnatal 2450 MHz continuous wave (CW) radiofrequency radiation on thymus: Four generation exposure. Electromagn Biol Med. 2022 May 30;1-10. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2022.2079673.
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the effects of pre- and postnatal 2450 MHz continuous wave (CW) radiofrequency radiation (RFR) on the thymus of rats spanning four generations. Four groups; sham, irradiated female, irradiated male, irradiated male and female, each consisting of four rats (one male and three females), were created. During the experiment, rats in the exposure groups were whole-body exposed to 2450 MHz CW-RFR for 12 h/day. Irradiation started one month before the fertilization in the experimental group. When the offspring were two months old, four rats, one male and three female, were allocated for the second-generation study. The remaining offspring were sacrificed under general anesthesia, and their thymuses were removed. The same procedure was applied to the next generation. Two months after the second generation gave birth, third-generation rats were decapitated, and their thymuses were removed. In all groups, cortex, medulla and resident cells could be clearly distinguished in the second and third generations. No differences were observed between the control and two experimental groups, defined as irradiated female and irradiated male. In contrast, vascularization was observed in the thymus of the fourth-generation offspring of the group where both males and females were irradiated. The number of offspring and mass of all rats decreased in the third-generation group. Pre-and postnatal 2450 MHz continuous wave radiofrequency radiation exposure may potentially affect the thymus of future generations.
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Effect of an Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field on the Concentration of Salivary Immunoglobulin A
Piotr Skomro, Danuta Lietz-Kijak, Olga Bogdziewicz-Wałęsa, Joanna Janiszewska-Olszowska.
Effect of an Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field on the Concentration of Salivary Immunoglobulin A.
Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 May 10;19(10):5786. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19105786.
Abstract
Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (ELF MF) therapy is effective in the treatment of injury, inflammation and postoperative complications. Its clinical applications relate to bone unification, pain reduction, soft tissue oedema and the decrease of electric potentials in the oral cavity. It enhances regeneration of periapical bone lesions. It is obvious that cells (leukocytes, platelets, keratinocytes, osteoblasts) and proteins (fibrin, collagen, elastin and growth factors) exhibit alterations when exposed to an Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of an Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (ELF MF) on the parotid gland on the concentration of salivary immunoglobulin A. The study group consisted of 24 patients, aged 14-16, who underwent ELF MF on the parotid gland region. The control group comprised 25 matching persons. The IgA concentration in saliva samples was established using radial immunodiffusion. Following ELF MF, a statistically significant increase in the concentration of secretory immunoglobulin A was found in the study group, whereas in the control group, no statistically significant differences were noted. It can be concluded that an Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field increases the activity of the immune system of the parotid gland.
Open access paper: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9141657/
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Interference thresholds for active implantable
cardiovascular devices in occupational low-frequency electric and
magnetic fields: a numerical and in vitro study
Zhou M, Kourtiche D, Claudel J, Deschamps F, Magne I, Roth P, Schmitt P,
Souques M, Nadi M. Interference thresholds for active implantable
cardiovascular devices in occupational low-frequency electric and
magnetic fields: a numerical and in vitro study. Med Eng Phys. 2022
Jun;104:103799. doi: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2022.103799.
Abstract
In light of concerns regarding the occupational safety and health
of workers wearing active implantable medical devices (AIMDs), this
study aims to investigate the potential risks of electromagnetic
interference (EMI) between AIMDs and low-frequency 50/60 Hz
electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in the workplace. A total of 58 AIMDs,
consisting of pacemakers (PMs) and implantable cardiac defibrillators
(ICDs) of different brands, models, and configurations were tested to
determine the immunity thresholds for high-voltage electric fields (EFs)
and magnetic fields (MFs) at 50/60 Hz. The EFs and MFs at the levels in
workplaces are reproduced by setups using Helmholtz coils and aluminum
plates, respectively, to ensure that the EM/MF exposures are
controllable and reproducible. The EMI thresholds were recorded by
observing the occurrences of PM or ICD dysfunctions. In addition,
numerical studies on anatomical models were carried out using CST®
software. The results indicate that the recorded thresholds all exceed
the EF and MF public exposure limits given in the ICNIRP 2010
guidelines. No dysfunction was observed among four ICDs tested under MF
exposure up to 2750 µT at 50 Hz and 2480 µT at 60 Hz. However, among the
43 PMs and 11 ICDs tested under EF exposures, potential hazards may
occur below the occupational exposure level proposed in the ICNIRP
guidelines.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35641069/
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Human magnetic sense is mediated by a light and magnetic field resonance-dependent mechanism
Kwon-Seok Chae, Soo-Chan Kim, Hye-Jin Kwon, Yongkuk Kim.
Human magnetic sense is mediated by a light and magnetic field resonance-dependent mechanism.
Sci Rep. 2022 May 30;12(1):8997. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-12460-6.
Abstract
Numerous organisms use the Earth's magnetic field as a sensory cue for migration, body alignment, or food search. Despite some contradictory reports, yet it is generally accepted that humans do not sense the geomagnetic field. Here, we demonstrate that a magnetic field resonance mechanism mediates light-dependent magnetic orientation in men, using a rotary chair experiment combined with a two-alternative forced choice paradigm. Two groups of subjects were classified with different magnetic orientation tendencies depending on the food context. Magnetic orientation of the subjects was sensitive to the wavelength of incident light and was critically dependent on blue light reaching the eyes. Importantly, it appears that a magnetic field resonance-dependent mechanism mediates these responses, as evidenced by disruption or augmentation of the ability to orient by radiofrequency magnetic fields at the Larmor frequency and the dependence of these effects on the angle between the radiofrequency and geomagnetic fields. Furthermore, inversion of the vertical component of the geomagnetic field revealed a non-canonical inclination compass effect on the magnetic orientation. These results establish the existence of a human magnetic sense and suggest an underlying quantum mechanical magnetoreception mechanism.