Thursday, March 2, 2023

Recent Research on Wireless Radiation and Electromagnetic Fields

I have been circulating abstracts of newly-published scientific papers on radio frequency and other non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) monthly since 2016. The collection contains more than 1,800 abstracts and links to more than 1,900 papers. Several hundred EMF scientists around the world receive these updates.

To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published since 2021 (including the new papers listed below) click on the following link (638 page pdf):

To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 to 2020
click on the following link (875 page pdf):


The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.

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.


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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.


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.

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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.


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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.


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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 = 104.5 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.


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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.


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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.
Conclusion

Our 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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


Conclusion

The 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.


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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.


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.

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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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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.


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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 Ewere 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 Ewere 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 E(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) Eregarding 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.


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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.


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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.


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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.

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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.


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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.