Wednesday, May 7, 2025

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 complete collection contains more than 2000 abstracts with links to these papers. Several hundred EMF scientists around the world receive these updates.

To download Volume 3 which contains abstracts of papers published since 2024 
(including the new papers listed below) click on the following link (331 page pdf):
https://bit.ly/EMFstudies-May2025

To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2021 through 2023 
click on the following link (867 page pdf):
https://bit.ly/EMFStudies-2021-2023

To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 through 2020 
click on the following link (875 page pdf):
https://bit.ly/EMFStudies-2016-2020

The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.

 



Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure on cancer in laboratory animal studies, a systematic review

Mevissen M, Ducray A, Ward JM, Kopp-Schneider A, McNamee JP, Wood AW, Rivero TM, Straif K. Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure on cancer in laboratory animal studies, a systematic review. Environment International. 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109482.

Abstract

Background  

More than ten years ago, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) published a monograph concluding there was limited evidence in experimental animals for carcinogenicity of Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF EMF).

Objective  

The objective of this review was to systematically evaluate the effects of RF EMF exposure on cancer in experimental animals.

Methods   

  Eligibility criteria: Based on pre-established Populations, Exposures, Comparators, Outcomes, and Study Type (PECOS) criteria, studies in experimental animals of the following study types were included: chronic cancer bioassays, initiation-(co–)promotion studies, and studies with tumor-prone animals. 
  Information sources: MEDLINE (PubMed), Science Citation Index Expanded and Emerging Sources Citation Index (Web of Science), and the EMF Portal. 
  Data abstraction and synthesis: Data are publicly available online as interactive visuals with downloadable metadata. We adapted the risk-of-bias (RoB) tool developed by Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) to include considerations pertinent to the evaluation of RF EMF exposure and cancer bioassays. Study sensitivity was assessed with a tool adopted from the Report on Carcinogens (RoC). We synthesized studies using a narrative approach. Effect size was calculated as the 1% Bayesian Average benchmark dose (BMD) of a respective study when dose–response or a trend was identified (see BMDAnalysisSupplementaryMaterial) (Supplement 1).
  Evidence Assessment: Certainty of the evidence (CoE) was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Developing and Evaluations (GRADE) approach, as refined by OHAT. Evidence from chronic cancer bioassays was considered the most directly applicable to evaluation of carcinogenicity.

Results 

We included 52 studies with 20 chronic bioassays No studies were excluded based on risk of bias concerns. Studies were not considered suitable for meta-analysis due to heterogeneity in study design, species, strain, sex, exposure characteristics, and cancer outcome. No or minimal evidence of RF EMF exposure-related cancer outcomes was found in most systems or organs in any study (these included gastrointestinal/digestive, kidney, mammary gland, urinary, endocrine, musculoskeletal, reproductive, and auditory). For lymphoma (18 studies), with 6 chronic bioassays (1,120 mice, 1,780 rats) inconsistency between two chronic bioassays was not plausibly explainable, and the CoE for lymphoma was rated ‘moderate’. For brain tumors (20 studies), including 5 chronic bioassays (1,902 mice, 6,011 rats), an increase in glial cell-derived neoplasms was reported in two chronic bioassays in male rats. The CoE for an increased risk in glioma was judged as high. The BMD analysis was statistically significant for only one study and the BMD was 4.25 (95% CI 2.70, 10.24). For neoplasms of the heart (4 chronic bioassays with 6 experiments), 3 studies were performed in rats (∼2,165 animals), and 1 in mice (∼720 animals). Based on 2 bioassays, statistically significant increases in malignant schwannomas was judged as high CoE for an increase in heart schwannomas in male rats. The BMDs from the two positive studies were 1.92 (95 %CI 0.71, 4.15) and 0.177 (95 %CI 0.125, 0.241), respectively. Twelve studies reported neoplasms in the adrenal gland (5 chronic bioassays). The CoE for an increased risk in pheochromocytoma was judged as moderate. None of these findings were dose-dependent when compared to the sham controls. Sixteen studies investigated tumors of the liver with 5 of these being chronic bioassays. The CoE was evaluated as moderate for hepatoblastomas. For neoplasms of the lung (3 chronic bioassays), 8 studies were conducted in rats (∼1,296 animals) and 23 studies in mice (∼2,800 animals). In one chronic bioassay, a statistically significant positive trend was reported for bronchoalveolar adenoma or carcinoma (combined), which was rated as moderate CoE for an increase in lung neoplasms with some evidence from 2 initiation-(co–)promotion studies.

Discussion  

Meta-analysis was considered inappropriate due to the heterogeneity in study methods. The GRADE/OHAT CoE framework has not been frequently applied to animal studies and experience to date suggests refinements are needed. We deferred to standard methods in environmental health where CoE is framed in the context of strength of the evidence providing positive support for carcinogenicity. High CoE can be interpreted as the true effect is highly likely to be reflected in the apparent relationship. Moderate CoE indicates the true effect may be reflected in the apparent relationship. Cancer bioassays conducted in experimental animals are commonly used to identify potential human carcinogens. We note that the two tumor types with high CoE in animals in this systematic review are the same as those identified with limited evidence in humans by the IARC Working Group. However, even in cases where the animal evidence demonstrates high CoE, the extrapolation of risk from cancer bioassays to humans is particularly complex for RF EMF. Without a better understanding of the mechanism of the carcinogenicity of RF-EMF, the choice of exposure metric for risk extrapolation (whole body versus localized), intensity or cumulative exposure, whether or not a monotonic dose–response holds for carcinogenic effects, and whether SAR is the appropriate dose metric for adverse effects induced by RF-EMF may be critical.

Other 

This review was partially funded by the WHO radioprotection programme. The protocol for this review was registered in Prospero reg. no. CRD42021265563 and published in Environment International 2022 (Mevissen et al. 2022).

Final conclusions 

The findings of this systematic review indicate that there is evidence that RF EMF exposure increases the incidence of cancer in experimental animals with the CoE being strongest for malignant heart schwannomas and gliomas.

Despite the high level of certainty that evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals may predict a carcinogenic hazard to humans, extrapolation of risk from cancer bioassays to humans is particularly complex for RF EMF. Without an understanding of the mechanism of the carcinogenicity of RF-EMF the choice of exposure metric for risk extrapolation (whole body versus localized), intensity or cumulative exposure whether or not a monotonic dose–response holds for carcinogenic effects, and whether SAR is the appropriate dose metric for adverse effects induced by RF-EMF may be critical.

Besides the integration of the sensitivity domain adopted from the RoC, more work is needed to tailor the GRADE approach to assessing the CoE from animal cancer bioassays designed to identifying risks of environmental agents.

Open access paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412025002338

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The association of widely used electromagnetic waves exposure and pregnancy and birth outcomes in Yazd women: a cohort study

Razavimoghadam M, Sefidkar R, Ehrampoush MH, Teimouri F, Hassanabadi MHZ, Nokhostin F. The association of widely used electromagnetic waves exposure and pregnancy and birth outcomes in Yazd women: a cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2025 Apr 11;25(1):427. doi: 10.1186/s12884-025-07512-4.

Abstract

Background: The present study investigated the association between exposure to electromagnetic waves from widely used devices and pregnancy and birth outcomes among women in Yazd City.

Methods: This study was conducted on a total of 1,666 participants enrolled in the Yazd Mother and Child Cohort Center between 2015 and 2019. Cell phones, cordless phones, and Wi-Fi instruments were considered electromagnetic wave sources. Pregnancy and birth outcomes examined in this study include miscarriage, preterm labor, abnormal birth weight, and deviations in newborn height and head circumference. SPSS version 24 and R-studio version 4.3.1 software were used for statistical analysis.

Results: The current study revealed that 41 (2.5%) mothers had miscarriage and 174 (10.4%) mothers experienced preterm labor. Furthermore, 181 (10.9%) infants with abnormal birth weights, 117 (7%) infants with abnormal height, and 124 (7.4%) infants with abnormal head circumference were observed in this study. Individuals with longer cell phones call duration during pregnancy had higher risk of miscarriage (p < 0.001, RR (95% CI), 1.0061(1.003-1.0093)), abnormal birth weight (p = 0.002, RR (95% CI), 1.0012 (1.0004-1.002)) and height (p = 0.003, RR (95% CI), 1.0014 (1.0004-1.0023)) in comparison with those with lower cell phone call duration in this period.

Conclusion: The findings of the study revealed that an increase in exposure to cell phones during pregnancy can increase the risk of pregnancy and birth outcomes, namely miscarriage, abnormal weight and height of the infant. Furthermore, cordless phone conversations could increase the risk of abnormal weight in newborns.


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Effects of Mobile Electromagnetic Exposure on Brain Oscillations and Cortical Excitability: Scoping Review

Torkan A, Zoghi M, Foroughimehr N, Yavari A, Jaberzadeh S. Effects of Mobile Electromagnetic Exposure on Brain Oscillations and Cortical Excitability: Scoping Review. Sensors. 2025; 25(9):2749. doi: 10.3390/s25092749.

Abstract

With the widespread adoption of smartphones, concerns about increased exposure to non-ionizing radiofrequency have emerged. This scoping review examines the effects of mobile phone exposure on neural oscillations and cortical excitability, focusing on both motor and non-motor regions of the cerebral cortex. A scoping review identified seventy-eight studies that involved healthy individuals and employed electroencephalography and only two studies that investigated transcranial magnetic stimulation as primary technical tools. The findings suggest that mobile phone exposure may affect brain oscillations and cortical excitability. However, inconsistencies in experimental methods across studies make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Additionally, research on fifth-generation technology, particularly mmWave exposure from next-generation mobile networks, remains limited and needs further exploration. These gaps highlight the need for more in-depth studies on how mobile phone exposure impacts brain function.

Conclusions and Future Work

Our literature review indicates that mobile EM exposure can induce changes in brain oscillations, primarily increasing the amplitude of alpha, beta, theta, and delta bands, particularly in the eyes closed condition. This review suggests that mobile EM exposure may enhance CSE due to strengthened facilitator mechanisms and weakened inhibitory mechanisms. Despite extensive research over the years, several gaps remain in the literature, which require further investigation, particularly regarding the effects of 5G as an emerging technology. This is linked to the non-thermal effect even at exposure levels below current thermal thresholds. These findings underscore the need to revise SAR limits and to incorporate neurophysiological EEG and TMS metrics as non-invasive measures. Furthermore, the advent of 5G technology, with its use of higher frequency mmWave bands (>24 GHz), demands urgent investigation into potential unique tissue interactions and indirect neural impacts, which warrants precautionary measures until robust safety data are available. The conclusions of this review may be judged as consistent with the evidence. However, they should be treated with caution due to key limitations, such as limited TMS studies (only two), which resulted in a lack of data and some methodological and technical problems in EEG studies, as mentioned in the discussion and limitations section. Additionally, the lack of research verifying 5G frequencies above 6 GHz prevents definitive claims.

The following recommendations are suggested for future research in this field: (1) Conduct more comprehensive examinations of the effects of 5G mobile EM exposure on brain oscillations and brain excitability. This requires additional experimental research, including exposure systems operating at 5G frequencies and post-exposure assessments. (2) Study the impact of age factors on brain structure and physiology by assessing mobile EM exposure effects on both young and older adults to better understand age-related differences. (3) Investigate potential gender effects of mobile EM exposure on brain structure and function. (4) Enhance the precision of future research by refining methodological aspects, from data acquisition to result analysis, in EEG and TMS studies. This includes careful attention to study design, optimal sample size determination, and comprehensive study setup, all contributing to improved accuracy in future investigations. (5) Standardize exposure parameters (frequency, SAR, distance from the head), sham/control conditions (double-blind protocols), and reporting EEG/TMS technical details (electrode placement, filtering) in EEG and TMS protocols, which are critical updates to international EM exposure guidelines.


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Sleep and Arousal Hubs and Ferromagnetic Ultrafine Particulate Matter and Nanoparticle Motion Under Electromagnetic Fields: Neurodegeneration, Sleep Disorders, Orexinergic Neurons, and Air Pollution in Young Urbanites

Calderón-Garcidueñas L, Cejudo-Ruiz FR, Stommel EW, González-Maciel A, Reynoso-Robles R, Silva-Pereyra HG, Pérez-Guille BE, Soriano-Rosales RE, Torres-Jardón R. Sleep and Arousal Hubs and Ferromagnetic Ultrafine Particulate Matter and Nanoparticle Motion Under Electromagnetic Fields: Neurodegeneration, Sleep Disorders, Orexinergic Neurons, and Air Pollution in Young Urbanites. Toxics. 2025 Apr 8;13(4):284. doi: 10.3390/toxics13040284.

Abstract

Air pollution plays a key role in sleep disorders and neurodegeneration. Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and/or transactive response DNA-binding protein TDP-43 neuropathology have been documented in children and young adult forensic autopsies in the metropolitan area of Mexico City (MMC), along with sleep disorders, cognitive deficits, and MRI brain atrophy in seemingly healthy young populations. Ultrafine particulate matter (UFPM) and industrial nanoparticles (NPs) reach urbanites' brains through nasal/olfactory, lung, gastrointestinal tract, and placental barriers. We documented Fe UFPM/NPs in neurovascular units, as well as lateral hypothalamic nucleus orexinergic neurons, thalamus, medullary, pontine, and mesencephalic reticular formation, and in pinealocytes. We quantified ferromagnetic materials in sleep and arousal brain hubs and examined their motion behavior to low magnetic fields in MMC brain autopsy samples from nine children and 25 adults with AD, PD, and TDP-43 neuropathology. Saturated isothermal remanent magnetization curves at 50-300 mT were associated with UFPM/NP accumulation in sleep/awake hubs and their motion associated with 30-50 µT (DC magnetic fields) exposure. Brain samples exposed to anthropogenic PM pollution were found to be sensitive to low magnetic fields, with motion behaviors that were potentially linked to the early development and progression of fatal neurodegenerative diseases and sleep disorders. Single-domain magnetic UFPM/NPs in the orexin system, as well as arousal, sleep, and autonomic regions, are key to neurodegeneration, behavioral and cognitive impairment, and sleep disorders. We need to identify children at higher risk and monitor environmental UFPM and NP emissions and exposures to magnetic fields. Ubiquitous ferrimagnetic particles and low magnetic field exposures are a threat to global brain health.


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Understanding Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) From Mobile Phone Radiofrequency Radiation (RFR) Exposure: A Mixed-Method Study Protocol

Razak NSZM, Rahman AA, Minhat HS, Fauzi FA. Understanding Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS) From Mobile Phone Radiofrequency Radiation (RFR) Exposure: A Mixed-Method Study Protocol. Bioelectromagnetics. 2025 May;46(4):e70007. doi: 10.1002/bem.70007.

Abstract

More than 7 billion mobile phone users were recorded worldwide in 2022. Radiofrequency radiation (RFR) from mobile phones can produce radiobiological effects, which may lead to electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) in humans. This study employs a mixed-method approach: the quantitative component identifies predictors of EHS from mobile phone RFR using the biopsychosocial model, whereas the qualitative component explores individual experiences that contribute to EHS. Quantitative analysis is conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 for descriptive and analytical statistics, whereas qualitative analysis is carried out with NVivo version 14 for thematic analysis. Findings from both analyses are compared and discussed to highlight similarities and differences, providing a richer, in-depth understanding of EHS resulting from mobile phone RFR exposure among undergraduate students. The study sample consists of 351 undergraduate students aged 18-25 from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), conducted between April 2023 and December 2023. Approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects at UPM before the study. The quantitative component uses a proportionate simple random sampling method with a validated questionnaire, whereas the qualitative component utilizes purposive sampling through in-depth interviews. Enhancing understanding of EHS may contribute to new knowledge and raise awareness of its potential effects on the population.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40293416/

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Temporal Change of Outdoor Rf-Emf Levels Four in European Countries: A Microenvironmental Measurement Study

Belackova L, Veludo AF. Aminzadeh R, Van Bladel H, Griffon V, Cardis E. et al. Temporal Change of Outdoor Rf-Emf Levels Four in European Countries: A Microenvironmental Measurement Study. Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=5146655 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.5146655.

Abstract

Introduction Over the past two decades, the amount of transmitted mobile data have increased rapidly. It is unknown whether the implementation of the new technologies enabling this has resulted in changes of outdoor radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure. Therefore, microenvironmental measurements were used to investigate temporal trends in RF-EMF exposure between 2016 and 2023, in the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and Spain, following a similar protocol across campaigns. This allowed us to compare exposure trends between countries and years.

Methods  The data was collected as part of the ACCEDERA (2016-2018), ETAIN (2023), and GOLIAT (2023) projects, walking repeatedly the same routes with RF-EMF exposimeters. Identical microenvironments were identified in each country and measurements of the exposure of mobile base station, contribution of mobile phones and the total levels were compared across years.

Results Comparing measurements between 6 to 14 unique microenvironments in each country, our data did not suggest significant changes in the exposure from the mobile base station origin (total downlink exposure) between 2016 and 2023 for the four countries. Across all countries the median values of the mobile base station exposure ranged from 0.12 mW/m2 in Switzerland and 0.24 mW/m2 in Belgium in 2016 to 0.28 mW/m2 in the Netherlands in 2023, 0.20 mW/m2 in Belgium, 0.11 mW/m2 in Switzerland and 0.19 mW/m2 in Spain in 2023. There was no consistent trend in the individual microenvironments across the countries.

Conclusions Our measurements of across included environment groups RF-EMF outdoor exposure levels do not indicate change in exposure levels between 2016 and 2023 despite an increase in mobile data traffic by a factor of 8 in Western Europe.

https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5146655

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Assessing EMF Exposure in Greek Urban and Suburban Areas During 5G Deployment: A Focus on 5G EMF Levels and Distance Correlation

Manassas A, Christopoulou M, Papanikolaou N, Delidimitriou S, Karabetsos E, Samaras T. Assessing EMF Exposure in Greek Urban and Suburban Areas During 5G Deployment: A Focus on 5G EMF Levels and Distance Correlation. Electronics. 2025; 14(8):1554. doi: 10.3390/electronics14081554

Abstract

This study presents an extensive analysis of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in Greek urban and suburban areas during the ongoing deployment of the 5G technology. A total of 400 in situ measurements of electric field strength were conducted at ground level across four distinct regions. The first part of the study provides a statistical analysis of the overall EMF exposure, highlighting the contributions of different cellular generations (2G–5G) to the total field. The results show that 4G networks are the dominant contributors, while the impact of 5G remains limited. The second part investigates the correlation between electric field levels in the 3.5 GHz band and the distance from 5G base stations (BS). Using geospatial analysis, we computed distances to the nearest BS and examined their relationship with measured EMF levels. The findings indicate a general inverse correlation between EMF levels and BS distance, although variations occur due to factors such as line-of-sight conditions and urban built environment characteristics. These results confirm that distance remains a key predictive feature for AI-based EMF exposure models, even in the case of 5G networks.

Conclusions

This study presents a descriptive statistical analysis of electric field measurements in four different regions in Greece, focusing on both the existing cellular networks and the emerging 5G technology. The findings reveal that electric field levels vary considerably across different environments, with urban areas exhibiting higher values due to greater population density and a higher concentration of BS. Cellular networks, especially 4G, contribute significantly to the overall electric field levels, whereas the 5G network shows only a minor contribution. Recording the electric field at the 3.5 GHz band without generating data traffic and examining its correlation with distance from BS, we observed that, in general, as distance increased, the recorded electric field decreased. Our results confirm that distance from BS antennas should be included as a predictive feature in AI models for EMF levels, not only for 2G, 3G, and 4G networks, but also for 5G. This finding highlights the enduring significance of distance as a key factor for accurately predicting EMF levels in the 5G band, where its influence on field strength is clearly observed.


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Impact of expectancy on fatigue by exposure to the fifth generation of mobile communication signals

Yang L, Ding X, Zhang S, Wu T. Impact of expectancy on fatigue by exposure to the fifth generation of mobile communication signals. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Apr 23:1-12. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2496151.

Abstract

There is a long-standing debate about the relationship between Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) exposure and fatigue. Past studies primarily rely on self-report scales to assess fatigue, but these methods are often susceptible to personal biases. Notably, the role of psychological factors in the fatigue response induce by RF-EMF exposure remains unclear. Therefore, our study focuses on exploring the impact of 5G signal exposure on human fatigue, particularly considering the influence of expectancy induced by psychological priming on the outcomes. In this study, we recruited 21 healthy subjects who were tested in three sessions. Each session included two 30-min exposures to either real or sham 5 G signals, with the order randomized. The experiment was conducted under varying informational conditions: subjects were provided with correct, false, or no information about the order of exposure. Additionally, subjects completed a fatigue scoring questionnaire and underwent Electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements during the experiment. The statistical comparison indicates that 5 G RF-EMF exposure at routine levels does not lead to changes in EEG power. The finding reveals that the report of fatigue can be altered by the conveyed information of being exposed by 5 G signals although there is no real exposure and no detectable electrophysiological indicator. Our findings suggest that it is necessary to prevent psychological priming in any kind or to take its possible consequence into consideration, to reveal this effect of RF-EMF exposure.


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Determining the relationship between mobile phone network signal strength and RF-EMF exposure: protocol and pilot study to derive conversion functions

Sandoval-Diez N, Belácková L, Fernandes Veludo A, Jalilian H, Guida F, Deltour I, Thielens A, Zahner M, Fröhlich J, Huss A, Röösli M. Determining the relationship between mobile phone network signal strength and radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure: protocol and pilot study to derive conversion functions. Open Res Eur. 2025 Mar 31;4:206. doi: 10.12688/openreseurope.18285.2.

Abstract

Mobile phones continuously monitor and evaluate indicators of the received signal strengths from surrounding base stations to optimise wireless services. These signal strength indicators (SSIs) offer the potential for assessing radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure on a population scale, as they can be related to exposure from both base stations and handset devices. Within the ETAIN (Exposure To electromAgnetic fields and plaNetary health) project, an open-access RF-EMF exposure app for smartphones, named "ETAIN 5G-Scientist", has been developed using citizen science. This paper delineates a measurement protocol for deriving formulas to convert the app SSIs into electric field values to estimate RF-EMF exposure. It presents pilot study results from measurements taken at four locations in France (FR), and 14 locations in the Netherlands (NL), using three different phone models and the most common network providers in each country. The measurements were conducted while executing different usage scenarios, such as calls or data transmission. The exposimeter ExpoM-RF4 and on-body electric field probes were used to measure exposure from far-field sources and the handset, respectively. Two-minute aggregates were considered the sample unit for analyses (n=891 in NL, n=395 in FR). Regression analyses showed a positive log-linear relationship between Long Term Evolution (LTE) Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and far-field RF-EMF exposure when aggregating data by location (coefficients for normalised RSSI: 0.91 [95% CI: 0.55 - 1.28] in FR, 1.09 [95% CI: 0.96 - 1.22] in NL). Negative log-linear trends were observed for handset-related RF-EMF exposure at the ear (-0.31 [95% CI: -0.46 - -0.16]) and chest (-0.20 [95% CI: -0.37 - -0.03]) during data transmission scenarios. These results demonstrate that the ETAIN 5G-Scientist app can be implemented for smartphone-based RF-EMF estimation. However, uncertainties in individual measurement points highlight the need for further data collection and analysis to improve the accuracy of exposure estimates.

Plain language summary

In this study, we looked at how mobile phones can help us measure exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) from mobile wireless communication. As part of the ETAIN project (Exposure To electromAgnetic fields and plaNetary health), we developed an app called "5G Scientist" to keep track of the signal strength indicators (SSIs) that smartphones continuously use to establish and improve wireless connections. Our goal is to study how these indicators are related to RF-EMF exposure and to develop formulas for converting them into exposure values. To achieve this, we developed a measurement protocol and tested it in a pilot study. In this pilot study, we took spot measurements in France and the Netherlands using various phone models and network providers, while applying different usages of the phone, e.g. voice or video calls and data transmission. We used a personal exposimeter to measure exposure from far-field sources (such as base stations) and on-body electric field probes to measure exposure from near-field sources (such as own phone use). Our measurements indicate that as signal quality improves, exposure from mobile phone base stations increases, whereas exposure from one's own device decreases in both strength and duration. These results suggest that smartphone apps could serve as valuable tools for large-scale exposure assessment, as they show the potential to capture ambient exposure as well as exposure coming from the own mobile phone. However, more extensive measurement campaigns are needed to make this method more accurate.


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Chicken or egg? Attribution hypothesis and nocebo hypothesis to explain somatization associated to perceived RF-EMF exposure

Ariccio S, Traini E, Portengen L, Martens A, Slottje P, Vermeulen R, Huss A. Chicken or egg? Attribution hypothesis and nocebo hypothesis to explain somatization associated to perceived RF-EMF exposure. Front Public Health. 2025 Apr 9;13:1561373. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1561373. 

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study is to understand the temporal relationship between the somatization usually attributed to RF-EMFs, and to evaluate the attribution hypothesis and the nocebo hypothesis in this context.

Method: In this longitudinal study, data from the Dutch Occupational and Environmental Health Cohort Study (AMIGO) was analyzed, consisting of a baseline questionnaire collected in 2011 (14,829 participants) and a follow-up questionnaire collected in 2015 (7,904 participants). Participants completed a questionnaire providing information on their health status, perceived environmental exposures, and demographics. Two sets of multiple regressions were conducted to evaluate the two hypotheses.

Results: Results show that the attribution hypothesis overall explained symptom reporting in association to perceived RF-EMF base station exposure and perceived electricity exposure more frequently than the nocebo hypothesis.

Discussion: This finding stands out from most of the existing literature, which primarily points to the nocebo effect as the main explanation for somatization in response to RF-EMF exposure. While this does not exclude, in absolute terms, the existence of a nocebo effect, potentially at other time scales, this finding has relevant consequences at the policy making level. The emerging relevance of the attribution hypothesis moves the focus on the discomfort of people with unexplained symptoms and their need to find a plausible explanation for their discomfort.

Open access paper: 

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Electromagnetic fields regulate iron metabolism: From mechanisms to applications  (Review)

Wang S, Yang J, Zhen C, Wang H, Shang P. Electromagnetic fields regulate iron metabolism: From mechanisms to applications. J Adv Res. 2025 Apr 29:S2090-1232(25)00288-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jare.2025.04.044.

Abstract

Background: Electromagnetic fields (EMFs), as a form of physical therapy, have been widely applied in biomedicine. Iron, the most abundant trace metal in living organisms, plays a critical role in various physiological processes, and imbalances in its metabolism are closely associated with the development and progression of numerous diseases. Numerous studies have demonstrated that EMF exposure induces significant changes in both systemic and cellular iron metabolism.

Aim of review: This review aims to summarize the evidence and potential biophysical mechanisms underlying the role of EMFs in regulating iron metabolism, thereby enhancing the understanding of their biological mechanisms and expanding their potential applications in biomedical fields.

Key scientific concepts of review: In this review, we have synthesized research findings and proposed the hypothesis that the biophysical mechanisms of EMFs regulate iron metabolism involve the special electromagnetic properties of iron-containing proteins and iron-enriched tissues, as well as the modulation of membrane structure and function, ion channels, and the generation and activity of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Then, the review summarizes the latest advances in the effects of EMFs on iron metabolism and their safety, as well as their impact on immunoregulation, cardiovascular diseases, neurological diseases, orthopedic diseases, diabetes, liver injury, and cancer.

Open access paper: 

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Efficient design of electromagnetic field exposure maps with multi-method evolutionary ensembles

Guillén-Pina J, Pérez-Aracil J, Chocano-del-Cerro R, Sánchez-Montero R, López-Espí P-L, Salcedo-Sanz S. Efficient design of electromagnetic field exposure maps with multi-method evolutionary ensembles. Environmental Research, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.121636.

Abstract

Radio-frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure is a growing concern among the population. This concern has led to a need for practical tools to contribute to an adequate risk perception. Representing spatial variations af- ter measurements from fixed sites and interpolating using different techniques is the most suitable method for obtaining EMF high-quality exposure maps. This paper uses evolutionary computation to obtain the optimal set of points to construct high-quality electromagnetic field exposure maps (minimizing an error measure with respect to a reference exposure map). A multi-method en- semble evolutionary approach, able to combine different search operators in a single population (PCRO-SL), is introduced for this particular problem, and it has been tested over actual measurements at Meco town, Madrid, Spain, obtaining good quality electromagnetic field exposure map reconstructions in terms of the differences with a reference EMF exposure map. The results obtained show that reducing the number of measurement points necessary to obtain significant exposure maps, while maintaining their representativeness, is possible.

Conclusions

In this work, an evolutionary multi-method ensemble algorithm for opti- mization (PCRO-SL) has been used to determine the best points that allow a true representation of the EMF exposure values to be obtained in an ur- ban area. This choice makes it possible to optimize the effort involved in producing these type of maps, for which measurements are taken from fixed locations. The density of points required has been reduced from the initial 8-10 points/km2 to just over 5 points/km2.

The division of the territory to be sampled into 250-meter squares can be useful to establish a first analysis of the area, but it is necessary to determine those points of largest interest in order to optimize the sampling effort. The analysis of the results obtained with the proposed multi-method ensemble for optimization, has made possible to establish the following criteria for the preparation of future exposure maps:
  • At least one point in direct line-of-sight (LOS) conditions shall be cho- sen within a first radius of 250 meters.
  • Within a second radius of 500 meters, sampling points should be chosen in different radial directions, regardless of their LOS/NLOS status, to determine the rate of variation in the different directions.
  • If they are not included in the above criteria, points should be chosen on the perimeter of the surface to be analyzed to avoid artifacts due to interpolation at the extremes of the exposure map.
The above criteria allow obtaining a spatial representation of EMF expo- sure while also maintaining the basic statistical properties of the chosen set of points: mean, variance and approximation to the lognormal distribution.

The effort required to produce these type of maps has been reduced using an evolutionary-type algorithm. This has make possible to obtain exposure maps leading to an adequate perception of the risk of exposure by the general public. For future work, the specific analysis depending on the type of mobile
technology or radio service, and the comparison of the results obtained when the measurements are taken by means of exposure meters or other meters are still pending.

Open access paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935125008874

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High Radiofrequency Radiation in the Surroundings of 10 Schools in Örebro, Sweden

Hardell L, Nilsson M. High Radiofrequency Radiation in the Surroundings of 10 Schools in Örebro, Sweden. Fortune Journal of Health Sciences. 8 (2025): 306-310.

Abstract

In Sweden as well as in many other countries the fifth generation, 5G, for wireless communication is rolled-out since 2019/2020. This has caused increasing environmental exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation. Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to RF radiation. Exposure sources in schools such as Wi-Fi routers, wireless connected mobile phones, and computers may cause high RF-exposure inside the schools but also outside sources, such as mobile phone base stations, may contribute significantly. In this study outside environmental exposure to RF radiation from 4G and 5G base stations was measured in October 2024 in close proximity to 10 schools in Sweden. The maximum levels ranged from 10,716 to 68,452 μ/m2. These levels far exceed the EUROPAEM EMF guidelines for daytime RF radiation exposure 10-1,000 μW/m2, nighttime 1-100 μW/m2, and for sensitive persons 0.1-10 μW/m2.

Excerpts

The measurements were made with the Narda broadband field meter NBM-550, with the probe EF-1891, measuring frequencies between 3 MHz-18 GHz and measurement range 0.6 V/m (955 μW/m2) to 65 V/m (11,206,897 μW/m2). This meter shows results in root mean square (RMS) for both minimum, maximum and average RF radiation level. The frequencies used for 5G in city environments in Sweden are in general around 3.5 GHz while frequencies used for 4G are primarily around 2.6 GHz (https://www.induo.com/b/lte-band-mobilt-bredband/)....

The Narda meter RMS results were considerably lower than Safe and Sound maximum peak exposure values. As one example, at two different spots, the Safe and Sound meter showed max peak levels of 749,000 μW/m 2 (sleeping room, desk, daughter) and 504,000 μW/m2 (sleeping room, pillow, daughter). The Narda RMS maximum levels at the same spots were 137,889 μW/m2 and 88,616 μW/m2, respectively (22). Both measurements were made at the same time.

Open access paper:
https://cdn.fortunejournals.com/articles/high-radiofrequency-radiation-in-the-surroundings-of-10-schools-in-oumlrebro-sweden.pdf

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The effect on rat peripheral nerve morphology and function of a 900-MHz electromagnetic field applied in the prenatal period

Hancı H, Yenilmez E, Demir S, Yıldırım M, Gedikli Ö, Kaya H. (2025). The effect on rat peripheral nerve morphology and function of a 900-MHz electromagnetic field applied in the prenatal period. Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, 1–16. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2479517

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a 900 megahertz (MHz) electromagnetic field (EMF) applied in the prenatal period on rat peripheral nerve morphology, nerve conduction velocity, and locomotor activity. Nine pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were assigned into three groups. No procedure was applied to the first group (control). The second (sham) group was placed inside an EMF cage for 1 h a day throughout the experiment (days 1–21 of pregnancy), but was not exposed to EMF. The third group (EMF) was placed inside the EMF cage for 1 h a day throughout the experiment (days 1–21 of pregnancy) and exposed to a 900 MHz EMF. No procedure was applied to the newborn pups until postnatal (PN) day 21, and new groups were constituted from among these. All the newly established groups were subjected to the open field and rotarod tests on PN days 21 and 60, after which electrophysiological measurements were performed on the groups in line with the study protocol. Sciatic nerves obtained from the animals sacrificed on PN day 60 were subjected to histopathological, histomorphometric, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses. In light of the study results, we concluded that prenatal application of a 900 MHz EMF adversely affects rat peripheral nerve development, and that these effects persist up to adulthood such as to be detectable in the sciatic nerve morphology, but that these morphological changes are not sufficiently severe to affect functional associated with the sciatic nerve.

Plain Language Summary

This study explores the impact of a 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) applied during the prenatal period on the peripheral nerve morphology, nerve conduction velocity, and locomotor activity of rats. Nine pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control, sham, and EMF. The control group received no treatment, the sham group was placed in an EMF cage without exposure, and the EMF group was exposed to the 900 MHz EMF for 1 hour daily throughout pregnancy. The offspring were tested on postnatal days 21 and 60 using open field and rotarod tests, followed by electrophysiological assessments. Sciatic nerves from the sacrificed animals on postnatal day 60 underwent histopathological, histomorphometric, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses. The results indicated that prenatal EMF exposure negatively affects peripheral nerve development in rats, with these effects persisting into adulthood, though not severe enough to impair functional outcomes associated with the sciatic nerve. Additionally, the study provides context on the evolution of communication technologies, emphasizing the increasing use of EMF-emitting devices like cell phones. Given that these devices emit EMF even in standby mode, understanding their potential effects on peripheral nerve integrity is crucial, especially considering the vital role of Schwann cells in nerve development and function. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the long-term impacts of EMF exposure on peripheral nerve health, particularly during critical developmental periods.


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Experimental Study of Animal Behavior under the Influence of the Electromagnetic Field of the 5G Mobile Communication Standard

Nikitina VN, Kalinina NI, Dubrovskaya EN et al. Experimental Study of Animal Behavior under the Influence of the Electromagnetic Field of the 5G Mobile Communication Standard. Biol Bull Russ Acad Sci 51, 3473–3480 (2024). doi: 10.1134/S1062359024701875.

Abstract

A pilot experimental study was carried out to assess the effect of unmodulated and modulated electromagnetic fields of the 5G mobile communication standard on the central nervous system of animals. Mature male Wistar rats were exposed to electromagnetic fields with a frequency of 4.9 GHz and an intensity of 250 μW/cm2 for 15 days for two hours a day. The animals of the two irradiated groups and the control group were in identical conditions in a semi-anechoic shielded chamber. The effect of the electromagnetic field on the functional state of the central nervous system was assessed by a comprehensive analysis of behavior patterns in the “open field” test before and after irradiation. The study did not reveal clear differences in animal behavior when exposed to unmodulated and modulated 5G electromagnetic fields. Statistically significant changes in animal behavior were recorded in the dynamics of the experiment in two irradiated and control groups, which may be due to a change in the natural electromagnetic background in a semi-anechoic shielded chamber.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1134/S1062359024701875

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Effect оf Repeated Exposure to Complexly Organized Electromagnetic Radiation on the Rat Behavior in the “Open Field” Test

Kolganova OI, Panfilova VV, Izmestyeva OS et al. The Effect оf Repeated Exposure to Complexly Organized Electromagnetic Radiation on the Rat Behavior in the “Open Field” Test. Biol Bull Russ Acad Sci 51, 3467–3472 (2024). doi.org: 10.1134/S1062359024701826.

Abstract

The effect of threefold (1 hour a day with an interval of three days) and multiple (8 weeks, 5 days a week, 2 hours a day) pulsed-modulated electromagnetic radiation on the orienting-exploratory response was studied on males and females of Wistar rats by the “open field” method. The animals were irradiated in an anechoic chamber in the zone of the formed wave of the microwave source (a block of 10 generators carrying frequencies from 1 to 4 GHz, the total pulse power density 300 µW/cm2, pulse duration 25 ms, sweep cycles 1–6 Hz, cycle turn-around time 30 s). It was shown that the exposure to such parameters could cause a stress reaction and an impairment of long-term memory in some irradiated animals, female rats being more sensitive to the action of microwaves than males. This reaction was transient and the animal behavior was restored 1.5–2 months after cessation of irradiation. However, there is a danger that in the case of constant exposure to microwaves, which, for example, occurs in mobile users, such behavior deviations may be fixed and clinically significant.


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Experimental Study of Stress Reactions Induced by Low-Intensity Microwave Radiation

Izmestieva OS, Kolganova OI, Chibisova OF et al. Experimental Study of Stress Reactions Induced by Low-Intensity Microwave Radiation. Biol Bull Russ Acad Sci 51, 3457–3466 (2024). doi: 10.1134/S1062359024701802.

Abstract

A study was made of the severity and dynamics of changes in indicators reflecting the state of the blood system (the number of myelokaryocytes in the femur, the level of CFU-S in the exo and endotest, hemolytic resistance of erythrocytes, as well as the mass and cellularity of the thymus) in mice exposed to monochromatic pulsed electromagnetic fields of the frequency range 2.27–2.78 GHz with an average power flux density of 60 μW/cm2 at doses from 0.086 to 0.86 J/g. It is shown that, under repeated exposure to electromagnetic fields, the bioeffect cumulates, leading to the development of a stress-like adaptive reaction in animals.


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Effects of 700MHz radiofrequency radiation (5G lower band) on the reproductive parameters of female Wistar rats

Jha N, Sarsaiya P, Tomar AK, Pardhiya S, Nirala JP, Chaturvedi PK, Gupta S, Rajamani P. Effects of 700MHz radiofrequency radiation (5G lower band) on the reproductive parameters of female Wistar rats. Reprod Toxicol. 2025 Apr 10:108910. doi: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2025.108910.

Abstract

The advent of 5G technology has raised concerns about its potential biological effects, particularly reproductive health being one key area of focus. This study investigated the impact of 700MHz, a lower 5G frequency band, on the reproductive health of female Wistar rats. The experiment analyzed the effects of short-term and long-term exposure to 700MHz mobile radiation on female Wistar rats. Rats were divided into three groups (control, sham-exposed, and exposed), with sample sizes of n=6 for short-term and n=8 for long-term exposure. For short-term exposure, rats were subjected to 6 hrs of radiation daily for 10 days, while for long-term exposure, rats exposed 4 hrs daily for 60 days. Physiological parameters, including estrous cyclicity, were monitored, and histopathological and biochemical analyses were conducted on harvested ovaries. Comet assay was performed to assess DNA damage. The results indicated no changes in estrous cycles or comet assay parameters in either exposure group. Serological hormone levels, including estradiol and progesterone, remained within normal ranges, but a slight yet significant increase in testosterone levels was observed in exposed groups. Oxidative stress markers revealed elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and significant decreases in superoxide dismutase (SOD), total sulfhydryl content, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) in exposed ovaries. Histopathological analysis showed no significant changes in ovarian morphology in short-term exposure but revealed alterations, including cystic follicles and abnormal vasculature, in long-term exposure. These findings suggest that 700MHz radiation may induce oxidative stress and tissue changes in ovarian samples over prolonged exposure

Highlights

• The length of estrous cycle remained unaffected in both short-term and long-term exposure to 700 MHz.
• Short-term exposure showed no major histoarchitectural changes. However, in long term exposure the exposed group showed abnormal structures when compared to control and sham group.
• For both short-term and long-term exposure significant changes in the testosterone level of the exposed group observed. However, the change in level remained within the normal range.
• The comet assay results indicated no DNA damage in both short-term and long-term exposure.

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Possible effects of RF EMR on contextual fear conditioning, hippocampal perivascular space, apoptosis and adrenal gland microarchitecture in rats

Narayanan SN, Kumar RS, Kumar N, Prabhakar P, Nayak SB, Bhat PG. Possible effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on contextual fear conditioning, hippocampal perivascular space, apoptosis and adrenal gland microarchitecture in rats. Behav Brain Res. 2025 Mar 12;481:115424. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2025.115424.

Abstract

Whilst the world sees the tremendous growth of mobile phone technology, radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) induced possible health effects have emerged as a topic of recent day debate. The current study is designed to test the hypothesis that chronic 900 MHz radiation exposure would potentially dysregulate the stress response system (HPA axis) in vivo, via, its non-thermal mechanisms, leading to alterations in the microarchitecture of the adrenal gland, vulnerable brain regions such as the hippocampus which may results in altered behaviours in rats. Male albino Wistar rats aged four weeks, weighing 50-60 g were subjected to 900 MHz radiation from a mobile phone for four weeks at a rate of one hour per day. On the 29th day, animals from the control, sham exposed and RF-EMR exposed groups were tested for contextual fear conditioning. They were later euthanized to study hippocampal and adrenal gland cytoarchitecture. Bright and dark compartment transitions in the avoidance box were considerably elevated in the RF-EMR exposed group and they exhibited a significant decrease in the latency to enter the dark compartment during the contextual fear conditioning test. Apoptosis was apparent in the CA3 region and perivascular space was significantly increased in the hippocampus of the radiation-exposed group. In addition to lymphocytic infiltrates, congested sinusoids, apoptotic-like changes were evident in the zona fasciculata of the adrenal gland. However, the cytoarchitecture of the adrenal medulla was comparable in all three groups. Chronic RF-EMR exposure caused changes in contextual fear conditioning, enlargement of hippocampal perivascular space, apparent CA3 apoptosis, and apoptotic-like changes in the zona fasciculata of the adrenal gland in rats.

Highlights

Chronic 900 MHz radiation-induced altered contextual fear memory.
Exposure to 900 MHz radiation resulted in increasing the hippocampal perivascular space.
Altered memory is attributed to hippocampal apoptosis induced by 900 MHz radiation.
900 MHz radiation triggered apoptosis and lymphocytic infiltration in the adrenal gland.

Open access paper: 

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Impact of a Terahertz electromagnetic field on the ion permeation of potassium and sodium channels

Song Z, Xue L, Ouyang Q, et al. Impact of a Terahertz electromagnetic field on the ion permeation of potassium and sodium channels. Commun Chem 8, 101 (2025). doi: 10.1038/s42004-025-01503-4.

Abstract

Ion channels are essential for various physiological processes, and their defects are associated with many diseases. Previous research has revealed that a Terahertz electromagnetic field can alter the channel conductance by affecting the motion of chemical groups of ion channels, and hence regulate the electric signals of neurons. In this study, we conducted molecular dynamics simulations to systematically investigate the effects of terahertz electromagnetic fields on the ion permeation of voltage-gated potassium and sodium channels, particularly focusing on the bound ions in the selectivity filters that have not been extensively studied previously. Our results identified multiple new characteristic frequencies and showed that 1.4, 2.2, or 2.9 THz field increases the ion permeability of Kv1.2, and 2.5 or 48.6 THz field increases the ion permeability of Nav1.5. Such effects are specific to the frequencies and directions of the electric field, which are determined by the intrinsic oscillation motions of the permeating ions in the selectivity filter or certain chemical groups of the ion channels. The amplitude of the THz field positively correlates with the change in ion permeation. This study demonstrates that THz fields can specifically regulate ion channel conductances by multiple mechanisms, which may carry great potential in biomedical applications.

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Residential exposure to magnetic field due to high-voltage power lines and childhood leukemia risk in mainland France - GEOCAP case-control study

Mancini M, Hémon D, Faure L, Clavel J, Goujon S. Residential exposure to magnetic field due to high-voltage power lines and childhood leukemia risk in mainland France - GEOCAP case-control study, 2002-2010. Environ Res. 2025 Apr 16:121638. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.121638. 

Abstract

Background: Environmental exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) is suspected of being a risk factor of childhood acute leukemia (AL) and classified as possible carcinogen. Results of recent epidemiological studies remain however heterogeneous.

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate AL risk in children exposed to ELF-MF by living close to high-voltage overhead power lines (HVOL) in France.

Methods: We included 4,117 AL cases under the age of 15 diagnosed in 2002-2010 and 44,838 contemporary controls representative of the French pediatric population, drawn from the national registry-based GEOCAP study. The distance between the geocoded address of residence and the closest 63-400kV HVOL, and the closest 225-400kV HVOL, were evaluated. ELF-MF exposure was also calculated at the geocoded addresses considering the characteristics of the neighboring HVOLs. Logistic regression models adjusted for age were used to estimate odds-ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. Sensitivity analyses were carried out to account for geocoding error and potential confounders.

Results: 0.7% of the controls lived within 50 meters of HVOL and 0.3% were exposed to more than 0.3 μT. Living within 50 m of HVOL was associated with an increased risk of AL for children under 5 (OR=1.6 (1.0-2.7)), an association more marked when restricting to the high-quality geocoded addresses (OR=3.2 (1.3-7.9)). ELF-MF was not associated with AL risk (≥ 0.3 μT, OR=0.6 (0.3-1.3)). The results remained stable in all the sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion: Our study brings new evidence that ELF-MF are probably not associated with AL risk, and cannot explain an association with distance to HVOL.

Open access paper: 
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935125008898?via%3Dihub

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Use of Electrical Household Appliances and Risk of All Types of Tumours: A Case-Control Study

Noori S, Aleem A, Sultan IN, Tareen AK, Ullah H, Khan MW. Use of Electrical Household Appliances and Risk of All Types of Tumours: A Case-Control Study. Med Sci (Basel). 2025 Apr 1;13(2):36. doi: 10.3390/medsci13020036.

Abstract

Introduction: The use of electrical appliances using extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) has increased in the past few years. These ELF MF are reported to be linked to several adverse health effects. However, only a couple of studies have been conducted on the association between risk of tumours and use of electronic devices using low frequency (LF) EMF.

Methods: We studied the use of common household electrical appliances and suspected risk of tumours in a multi-hospital-based case-control study. In total, 316 patients were included in the final analysis.

Results: The study results showed a below unity risk for most of the devices. A slight increased risk of tumour was observed for computer screen use OR: 1.13 (95% CI: 0.43-3.02) and use of microwave oven OR: 1.21 (95% CI: 0.36-4.04). We also had chance to investigate ELF MFs exposure association with tumour. Where we observed elevated odd ratios in individuals living near electricity transformer stations, with a statistically significant risk OR: 2.16 (95% CI: 1.30-3.59). However, the risk was below unity (OR: 0.98) in individuals residing close to powerlines.

Conclusion: The current study serves as a pilot study of primary data and will be helpful in future epidemiological research studies on the topic in the region.

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3271/13/2/36

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Magnetoreception and the ruling hypothesis

Vortman Y, Fitak R, Natan E. Magnetoreception and the ruling hypothesis. J Exp Biol. 2025 Apr 1;228(7):jeb250252. doi: 10.1242/jeb.250252.

Abstract

Whereas science is written by humans and cannot escape emotions intervening with scientific thought, the scientific community should be on guard against unnoticeably adopting a favorite hypothesis. When adopting a favorite hypothesis, scientists tend to review their work in favor of this hypothesis and reject contradictory data. In 1890, Thomas Chrowder Chamberlin first described this phenomenon as when 'the search for facts, and their interpretation are dominated by affection for the favored theory until it appears to its advocate to have been overwhelmingly established'. The favorite hypothesis can then quickly transition into a ruling hypothesis, leading to an unconscious bias in favor of supporting evidence and neglect of contradictory observations. This is especially problematic when a scientific field adopts a favorite hypothesis. In this Commentary, we suggest that the field of animal magnetoreception - in particular mechanisms based on radical-pair chemistry and cryptochrome proteins - may be under the reign of a ruling hypothesis. We argue that repeatedly, conclusions are unfounded or otherwise not consistent with the results presented. We use the case of magnetoreception - the only sense that remains without a clearly described receptor - to raise general awareness of the phenomenon of a ruling hypothesis in the scientific community. We emphasize the distinction between the scientist and the scientific community suffering from a hypothesis regime, and further highlight suggestions to mitigate the risk of working under a ruling hypothesis.


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Effect of electromagnetic field radiation on transcriptomic profile and DNA methylation level in pig conceptuses during the peri-implantation period

Franczak A, Zmijewska A, Drzewiecka EM, Kozlowska W, Wydorski P, Paukszto L, Brevini TL. Effect of electromagnetic field radiation on transcriptomic profile and DNA methylation level in pig conceptuses during the peri-implantation period. Sci Rep. 2025 Apr 23;15(1):14025. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-98918-9. 

Abstract

Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) radiation alters the steroidogenic activity of porcine conceptuses during the peri-implantation period. This study investigated whether short exposure (2 h) to ELF-EMF radiation may induce changes in the transcriptomic profile of conceptuses and their DNA methylation levels, with a focus on the promoter regions of differentially expressed genes of interest. Porcine conceptuses were collected on days 15-16 of pregnancy, preincubated, and then exposed in vitro to ELF-EMF at a frequency of 50 Hz. ELF-EMF treatment affected the expression of 21 protein-coding transcripts, including solute carrier family 34 member 1 (SLC34A1), hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 2 (HSD17B2), apolipoprotein M (APOM), regucalcin (RGN), heat shock protein family A (Hsp70) member 6 (HSPA6), fibrinogen beta chain, and fibrinogen gamma chain (FGG). There were evaluated 21 GO annotations for biological process terms, nine GO annotations for cellular component terms and two KEGG pathways. The ELF-EMF exposure increased approximately 16 times genomic DNA methylation in conceptuses. ELF-EMF-induced changes in methylation were observed in the promoter regions of APOM, HSD17B2, FGG, and SLC34A1. The results determined 116 predicted single nucleotide variant substitutions within RNA editing sites. In conclusion, ELF-EMF radiation appears to interact with DNA methylation levels and to affect the expression of genes involved mainly in cellular homeostasis, conceptuses development, and attachment, suggesting the need for further investigation to elucidate better the impact of ELF-EMF exposure on the physiology of early conceptuses.


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Potential influence of geomagnetic activity on blood pressure statistical fluctuations at mid-magnetic latitudes

He P, Li C, Xu M, Guo R, Degeling AW, Pitkänen T, Bu Y, Zheng X, Zhang Y, Jia X, Tian A, Han C, Wang S, Chen T, Fang J, Sun S, Liu W, Cao J, Quan K, Cong Z, Ma D, Zong Q, Fu S, Yao S, Zhang H, Shi Q. Potential influence of geomagnetic activity on blood pressure statistical fluctuations at mid-magnetic latitudes. Commun Med (Lond). 2025 Apr 28;5(1):143. doi: 10.1038/s43856-025-00822-w.

Abstract

Background: Solar activity and the consequent geomagnetic activity (GMA) profoundly influence human biological rhythms and cardiovascular system functions. Although the response of blood pressure (BP) to GMA has attracted considerable attention, it is unclear whether the GMA can have an influence alone and how it occurs.

Methods: In this six-year time series analysis, we collated over 500,000 BP measurements from two representative cities (Qingdao and Weihai) at mid-magnetic latitudes in China. Using various statistical methods, we analyzed the correlation between BP and the GMA (represented by Ap index) and their quasi-periodic fluctuations. Additionally, we conducted a comparative analysis of the influence of other environmental factors (air temperature and PM2.5) on BP.

Results: The statistical BP level fluctuations correlate with the GMA. Both BP and the GMA index exhibit similar annual bimodal patterns and multiple periodicities, including 12-month and 6-month cycles, and an intermittent 3-month cycle. In contrast, other known environmental factors influencing BP such as air temperature and PM2.5 do not exhibit similar periodicities, particularly they lack 3-month cycles. In years with higher GMA levels, the BP shows stronger correlations with the Ap index and responds on a shorter timescale. Additionally, BP in females appears to be more strongly correlated with GMA.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight potential risks to individuals with hypertension with elevated GMA levels, deepen our understanding of GMA's role in human health, and offer insights for healthcare policymakers on the clinical significance of the geomagnetic environment.

Plain language summary

Human blood pressure fluctuates constantly and is influenced by various factors such as hormone levels in the body and environmental conditions. Geomagnetic activity is change in the Earth’s magnetic field as a consequence of the sun’ s activity, such as the impact of solar winds. We used six years of data to investigate whether changes in geomagnetic activity have an impact on blood pressure. Our results show a relationship between geomagnetic activity and blood pressure, particularly during periods of high geomagnetic activity. Understanding this relationship could enhance our knowledge of the geomagnetic environment’s clinical significance and potentially contribute to better hypertension risk assessment and management.


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Earth's magnetic field and its relationship to the origin of life, evolution and planetary habitability

Tarduno JA, Zhou T, Huang W, Jodder J. Earth's magnetic field and its relationship to the origin of life, evolution and planetary habitability. Natl Sci Rev. 2025 Mar 3;12(5):nwaf082. doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwaf082.

Abstract

Earth's magnetic field history can provide insight into why life was able to originate and evolve on our planet, and how habitability has been maintained. The magnetism of minute magnetic inclusions in zircons indicates that the geomagnetic field is at least 4.2 billion years old, corresponding with genetic estimates for the age of the last universal common ancestor. The early establishment of the field would have provided shielding from solar and cosmic radiation, fostering environments for life to develop. The field was also likely important for preserving Earth's water, essential for life as we know it. Between 3.9 and ca. 3.4 billion years ago, zircon magnetism suggests latitudinal stasis of different ancestral terrains, and stagnant lid tectonics. These data also indicate that the solid Earth was stable with respect to the spin axis, consistent with the absence of plate tectonic driving forces. Moreover, these data point to the existence of low-latitude continental nuclei with equable climate locales that could have supported early life. Near the end of the Precambrian (0.591 to 0.565 billion years ago), the dynamo nearly collapsed, but growth of the inner core during earliest Cambrian times renewed the magnetic field and shielding, helping to prevent drying of the planet. Before this renewal, the ultra-weak magnetic shielding may have had an unexpected effect on evolution. The extremely weak field could have allowed enhanced hydrogen escape to space, leading to increased oxygenation of the atmosphere and oceans. In this way, Earth's magnetic field may have assisted the radiation of the macroscopic and mobile animals of the Ediacara fauna. Whether the Ediacara fauna are genetically related to modern life is a matter of debate, but if so, magnetospheric control on atmospheric composition may have led to an acceleration in evolution that ultimately resulted in the emergence of intelligent life.

Open access paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11980988/

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The effects of radiofrequency radiation on male reproductive health and potential mechanisms (Review)

Bektas H, Dasdag S. The effects of radiofrequency radiation on male reproductive health and potential mechanisms. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025 Mar 19:1-26. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2480664.

Abstract

Recent studies have demonstrated that radiofrequency (RF) radiation emanating from devices such as mobile phones and Wi-Fi may have adverse effects on male reproductive health. This radiation can elevate testicular temperature, potentially compromising sperm quality and DNA integrity, and influence the specific absorption rate (SAR) across different body regions, leading to detrimental reproductive outcomes. Furthermore, exposure to RF radiation has been linked to conditions that could affect male reproductive function, such as oxidative stress, alterations in ion transitions across cell membranes, and inflammation. The article reviews research conducted on both humans and animal models regarding the effects of electromagnetic radiation on sperm quality, DNA damage, oxidative stress, hormone levels, and testicular function, suggesting that exposure to electromagnetic radiation could have harmful implications for male reproductive health. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation on male infertility.

Plain-language Summary

In this review, the effects of RF on male reproduction and the mechanisms related to them were examined and the results were discussed. “The effects of RF on sperm, reproductive hormones and testis, occupational exposure and male reproductive health, mechanisms of RF effects on reproductive system” were discussed here. In conclusion, further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation on male infertility.

Excerpts

A total of 90 articles were evaluated in this review.

The effects of RF radiation on sperm

In conclusion, despite an incomplete understanding of the precise mechanisms underlying the impact of non-thermal RF radiation on sperm and testicular function, research across animal and human studies consistently suggests a connection between increased levels of ROS and/or DNA damage and negative impacts on fertility factors. This indicates that the negative effects of RF radiation on sperm parameters may primarily be linked to the induction of ROS. Furthermore, the variability in study outcomes underscores the complexity of RF radiation’s effects, which may be influenced by factors such as exposure duration, frequency, and individual susceptibility. Therefore, limiting mobile phone use may be advisable to mitigate the incidence of male infertility. However, further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects of mobile phone radiation on male fertility and the generalizability of these findings (). Future studies should aim to clarify the specific biological pathways affected by RF radiation and standardize experimental protocols to resolve inconsistencies in the literature.

The effects of RF radiation on DNA

In conclusion, these studies highlight the harmful effects of RF radiation on male reproductive health, including DNA damage, decreased sperm mobility and vitality, increased DNA fragmentation, and oxidative stress. The variability in the findings, driven by differences in study design, exposure parameters, and biological models, suggests that the biological impact of RF radiation may be multifactorial, involving complex interactions between ROS production, DNA repair mechanisms, and cellular apoptosis pathways. It is advisable to limit RF exposure by keeping mobile phones away from the pelvic region and minimizing the use of RF-emitting electronic devices. However, given the inconsistent outcomes across various studies, future research should focus on standardizing experimental conditions and exploring the dose-response relationship to better understand the threshold levels at which RF radiation becomes detrimental to reproductive health. Further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term implications of RF radiation on human reproductive health.

The effects of RF radiation on reproductive hormones and testis

In conclusion, the research discussed in this section indicates that RF radiation exposure could negatively affect male reproductive health, leading to changes in hormone levels, testicular morphology, and sperm count and viability (). Prolonged exposure to wireless internet and mobile phones has been associated with alterations such as increased abnormalities in sperm heads and reduced weight of reproductive organs. Additionally, RF radiation can impact testicular parenchyma in rats, resulting in irregularly shaped seminiferous tubules with epithelial cell abnormalities. The complexity of these findings suggests that RF radiation may induce a cascade of biological responses, including oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, and apoptotic processes, which collectively contribute to testicular damage and compromised reproductive health. The observed effects appear to be dose-dependent, with longer durations and higher intensities of RF exposure correlating with more severe reproductive outcomes. These findings emphasize the importance of avoiding long-term exposure to RF radiation emissions, particularly from wireless technologies, to prevent potential harm to male reproductive health. Future research should focus on elucidating the precise mechanisms by which RF radiation affects the reproductive system and identifying potential protective strategies to mitigate these effects.

Occupational exposure and male reproductive health

In conclusion, the diverse findings from these studies shed light on the complex relationship between occupational exposure, particularly to radiofrequency radiation, and male reproductive health outcomes (). The variability in study outcomes highlights the challenges in establishing a clear causal link, suggesting that individual susceptibility, exposure duration, and the specific characteristics of RF equipment used in different occupational settings may play significant roles. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to inform occupational health guidelines and practices. Future studies should focus on standardizing exposure assessment methods and consider long-term monitoring of workers in high-risk occupations to better understand the cumulative effects of RF radiation. Additionally, exploring potential protective strategies, such as shielding technologies and exposure limits, could be critical in mitigating the reproductive risks associated with occupational RF exposure.

Conclusion

This study comprehensively examined the mechanisms by which RF radiation may impact male reproductive health, focusing on both thermal and non-thermal pathways. The findings indicate that RF exposure, particularly through increased oxidative stress, ionic imbalances, and inflammation, can disrupt spermatogenesis and impair sperm quality. While thermal effects highlight the role of testicular temperature elevation, non-thermal mechanisms such as ROS generation and ionic dysregulation further emphasize the multifaceted nature of RF-induced reproductive toxicity. Despite the robust body of evidence, inconsistencies across studies warrant standardized research protocols to resolve methodological discrepancies. Future investigations should prioritize long-term exposure assessments and explore protective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with RF radiation. These efforts are critical for informing public health guidelines and ensuring reproductive health safety in the era of pervasive wireless communication technologies. Findings underline the importance of revisiting current regulatory standards to better protect reproductive health.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40108785/

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Use of Mobile and Cordless Phones and the Association with Prostate Cancer

Hardell L, Carlberg M. Use of Mobile and Cordless Phones and The Association with Prostate Cancer. Fortune Journal of Health Sciences, 8 (2025): 267-273. doi: 10.26502/fjhs.273

Abstract

Exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation in the frequency range 30 kHz–300 GHz was in 2011 evaluated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) at the World Health Organization (WHO) to be a ‘possible’ human carcinogen, Group 2B. This was based on epidemiological results on increased risk for glioma and acoustic neuroma. Results on other cancer types are sparse. An increased incidence in male rats of proliferative lesions in the prostate gland induced by RF radiation was found in the US NTP study. Thus, it was pertinent to study an association with prostate cancer in human studies. We analyzed data in two of our previous studies, one on brain tumors (only deceased subjects; those who died from prostate cancer were defined as cases) and another on prostate cancer (living subjects) that included similar questions on use of mobile phones or cordless phones. The pooled analysis gave for mobile phone use OR = 1.8, 95 % CI = 1.01-3.1, increasing in the >10 year latency group to OR = 2.8, 95 % CI = 1.5-5.3. Also, use of the cordless phone gave increased risk, although not statistically significant. Dose-response analysis gave highest risk for >2,000 h use of the mobile phone with OR = 2.4, 95 % CI = 1.2-5.1. The cordless phone yielded highest risk in the group 1001-2000 h with OR = 2.3, 95 % CI = 1.01-5.4. Lower OR was seen for use > 2,000 h but based on low numbers. Higher risk was seen in cases with more aggressive cancer based on Gleason score, PSA, and high risk profile, and among subjects with heredity for prostate cancer.

Open access paper: https://www.fortunejournals.com/articles/use-of-mobile-and-cordless-phones-and-the-association-with-prostate-cancer.html

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Disease burden, risk factors, and trends of primary central nervous system (CNS) cancer: A global study of registries data

My note: Because it can take up to three decades for a solid tumor to be diagnosed and be reported in tumor registries, it is important to model the latency when examining tumor incidence data. Nonetheless, it is tricky trying to interpret ecological studies. Moreover, trends over time in tumor incidence can be difficult to interpret due to changes in screening, diagnostic and reporting procedures.

Huang J, Chan SC, Lok V, Zhang L, Lin X, Lucero-Prisno DE, Xu W, Zheng ZJ, Elcarte E, Withers M, Wong MCS; NCD Global Health Research Group; Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU). Disease burden, risk factors, and trends of primary central nervous system (CNS) cancer: A global study of registries data. Neuro Oncol. 2023 May 4;25(5):995-1005. doi: 10.1093/neuonc/noac213.

Key Points

  • Brain cancer burden was higher in more developed countries and male population.

  • Brain cancer was related to HDI, GDP, brain injuries, carcinogens, and phone use.

  • There was an increasing trend of brain cancer in the younger male population.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the global incidence, mortality, associated risk factors, and temporal trends of central nervous system (CNS) cancer by sex, age, and country.

Methods: We extracted incidence and mortality of CNS cancer from the GLOBOCAN (2020), Cancer Incidence in Five Continents series I-X, WHO mortality database, the Nordic Cancer Registries, and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. We searched the Global Health data exchanges for the prevalence of its associated risk factors. We tested the trends by Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC) from Joinpoint regression analysis with 95% confidence intervals in different age groups.

Results: The age-standardized rates (ASRs) of CNS cancer incidence and mortality were 3.5 and 2.8 per 100,000 globally. Southern Europe (ASR = 6.0) and Western Asia (ASR = 4.2) had the highest incidence and mortality, respectively. The incidence was associated with Human Development Index [HDI], Gross Domestics Products per capita [GDP], prevalence of traumatic brain injuries, occupational carcinogens exposure, and mobile phone use at the country level. There was an overall stable and mixed trend in the CNS cancer burden. However, increasing incidence was observed in younger male population from five countries, with Slovakia (AAPC = 5.40; 95% CI 1.88, 9.04; P = .007) reporting the largest increase.

Conclusions: While the overall global trends of cancer have been largely stable, significant increasing trends were found in the younger male population. The presence of some higher-HDI countries with increasing mortality suggested an ample scope for further research and exploration of the reasons behind these epidemiological trends.

Excerpts

"There are inconsistent results reporting by different settings of studies regarding the associations between mobile phone use and CNS cancer. Although some studies show mobile phone use was not associated with an increased risk of brain cancer, 45–47 they may have suffered from poor exposure assessment that likely contributed to exposure mis-classification. 48 A meta-analysis of 11 studies found a significant positive association between long-term ipsilateral mobile phone use and the risk of glioma (OR = 1.46, 95% CI 1.12–1.92). 49 Another meta-analysis showed a similar significant 1.33 times increase in risk. 11 A more recent meta-analysis of 46 studies found increased CNS cancer incidence with cumulative call time of 1000 or more hours. 50"

"Higher CNS cancer incidence was associated with a higher-HDI (βmale = 0.87, CI 0.66–1.08, P < .001; βfemale = 0.59, CI 0.45–0.73, P < .001), GDP per capita (βmale = 0.49, CI 0.32–0.66, P < .001; βfemale = 0.30, CI 0.18–0.42, P < .001), and higher prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (βmale = 2.92, CI 2.47–3.37, P < .001; βfemale = 2.79, CI 2.35–3.24, P < .001), occupational carcinogens (βmale = 1.39, CI 0.13–2.66, P = .031; βfemale = 0.78, CI 0.06–1.49, P = .034), and mobile [phone] use (βmale = 2.07, CI 0.83–3.30, P = .001; βfemale = 1.43, CI 0.61–2.24, P = .001) but not with exposure to unsafe water (P > .05 for both sexes; Figure 2)."

"Higher CNS cancer mortality was associated with a higher-HDI (βmale = 0.58, CI 0.41–0.74, P < .001; βfemale = 0.37, CI 0.26–0.47, P < .001), GDP per capita (βmale = 0.29, CI 0.16–0.42, P < .001; βfemale = 0.18, CI 0.09–0.26, P < .001), and higher prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (βmale = 1.96, CI 1.60–2.32, P < .001; βfemale = 1.64, CI 1.28–2.00, P < .001), occupational carcinogens (βmale = 1.06, CI 0.12–2.00, P = .027; βfemale = 0.63, CI 0.12–1.14, P = .016), and mobile [phone] use (βmale = 1.34, CI 0.42–2.25, P = .005; βfemale = 0.81, CI 0.22–1.39, P = .007) but not with the exposure to unsafe water (P > .05 for both sexes; Figure 3)."

"The largest incidence and mortality of CNS cancer were found in populations with very high HDI. The high incidence could be attributable to the ample resources in early detection with advanced diagnostic techniques and regular health check-ups while the high mortality could be ascribed to higher exposure to its related risk factors, such as traumatic brain injuries, occupational carcinogens exposure, and mobile phone use. While the overall global trends of cancer have been largely stable, significant increasing trends were found in the younger male population. The presence of some higher-HDI countries with increasing mortality suggested an ample scope for further research and exploration of the reasons behind these epidemiological trends."


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Could electrohypersensitivity be a specific form of high sensory processing sensitivity?

Bordarie J, Ledent M, Dieudonné M, Choisay F, De Clercq E. Could electrohypersensitivity be a specific form of high sensory processing sensitivity? Front Public Health. 2025 Feb 28;13:1550427. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1550427.

Abstract

Introduction: Electrohypersensitivity (EHS) refers to a syndrome in which individuals claim to suffer from a variety of symptoms that they attribute to electromagnetic fields. The characteristics of this specific hypersensitivity, particularly in terms of symptoms, are similar to those associated with high sensory processing sensitivity (HSPS). This article raises the question of the superposition of these two types of sensitivity and investigates the existence of a link between the two.

Methods: Participants (n = 100) completed a questionnaire measuring EHS and HSPS, as well as absorption, risk perception and avoidance strategies related to electromagnetic fields, and anxiety and depressive disorders.

Results: They showed an overrepresentation of highly sensitive people within the electrohypersensitive group. Furthermore, the results showed differences in terms of anxiety-depressive symptomatology and cognitive strategies (risk perception and avoidance strategies).

Discussion: The article discusses these results in the light of the literature and suggests avenues for future research and ways to help highly sensitive people, whether wor not this condition is considered to be caused by electromagnetic radiation.

Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1550427/full

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Self-diagnosing electromagnetic hypersensitivity—A case study

Ashton D.  Self-diagnosing electromagnetic hypersensitivity—A case study. Front Public Health 2025; 13: 1535513

No abstract

Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1535513/full

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A Novel Method for Achieving Precision and Reproducibility in a 1.8 GHz Radiofrequency Exposure System That Modulates Intracellular ROS as a Function of Signal Amplitude in Human Cell Cultures

Dahon C, Aguida B, Lebon Y, Le Guen P, Dangremont A, Meyer O, Citerne JM, Pooam M, Raad H, Thoradit T, Jourdan N, Bertagna F, Ahmad M. A Novel Method for Achieving Precision and Reproducibility in a 1.8 GHz Radiofrequency Exposure System That Modulates Intracellular ROS as a Function of Signal Amplitude in Human Cell Cultures. Bioengineering (Basel). 2025 Mar 4;12(3):257. doi: 10.3390/bioengineering12030257.

Abstract

Radiofrequency fields in the 1-28 GHz range are ubiquitous in the modern world, giving rise to numerous studies of potential health risks such as cancer, neurological conditions, reproductive risks and electromagnetic hypersensitivity. However, results are inconsistent due to a lack of precision in exposure conditions and vastly differing experimental models, whereas measured RF effects are often indirect and occur over many hours or even days. Here, we present a simplified RF exposure protocol providing a single 1.8 GHz carrier frequency to human HEK293 cell monolayer cultures. A custom-built exposure box and antenna maintained in a fully shielded anechoic chamber emits discrete RF signals which can be precisely characterized and modelled. The chosen amplitudes are non-thermal and fall within the range of modern telecommunication devices. A critical feature of the protocol is that cell cultures are exposed to only a single, short (15 min) RF exposure period, followed by detection of immediate, rapid changes in gene expression. In this way, we show that modulation of genes implicated in oxidative stress and ROS signaling is among the earliest cellular responses to RF exposure. Moreover, these genes respond in complex ways to varying RF signal amplitudes consistent with a hormetic, receptor-driven biological mechanism. We conclude that induction of mild cellular stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a primary response of human cells to RF signals, and that these responses occur at RF signal amplitudes within the range of normal telecommunications devices. We suggest that this method may help provide a guideline for greater reliability and reproducibility of research results between labs, and thereby help resolve existing controversy on underlying mechanisms and outcomes of RF exposure in the general population.

Excerpts

Concluding Remarks and Future Perspectives

We here describe an experimental RF exposure device and protocol that present fully characterized, defined RF signals to human cells in culture. Their effects are consistent with a biological receptor-driven mechanism whereby RF exposure modulates intracellular ROS and ROS signaling pathways. This provides a testable hypothesis for the many and varied effects of RF described in the literature.

These cellular responses occur at RF signal amplitudes that are orders of magnitude below those needed to achieve thermal effects, and lie within the signal range of personal electronic devices and mobile phones. Because this human cell response to RF is not linear as a function of the RF signal amplitude, the relation between RF exposure conditions and a physiological outcome is not readily deducible; indeed a robust gene expression response may occur at one amplitude but be undetected at another signal amplitude, or even undergo the opposite response entirely (e.g., opposite expression of the same gene at different signal amplitudes). It is therefore necessary to assess physiological response to RF signal exposure at multiple signal amplitudes and wavelengths, and preferably by using a readout assay that is rapid and direct. This may help explain existing confusion and contradictions in the literature, as well as stimulate future studies on the nature of the biological reception mechanisms.

Finally, although RF exposure from cell phones and telecommunications devices has not been proven harmful in any way, there is a definite physiological response in human beings to this signal range. Risk factors may therefore exist for susceptibility to RF exposure, for instance in individuals with reduced tolerance to oxidative stress and/or who are exposed to excessive stressors in their daily life. These additive or synergistic effects may contribute to certain poorly defined syndromes such as electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) that have been linked to RF exposure in rare individuals in the past [29].

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5354/12/3/257

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RF-EMF exposure assessment with add-on uplink exposure sensor in different microenvironments in seven European countries

Bladel HV, Stroobandt B, Veludo AF, Deprez K, Röösli M, Tognola G, Parazzini M, Thuróczy G, Polańska K, Politański P, Wiart J, Guxens M, Joseph W. RF-EMF exposure assessment with add-on uplink exposure sensor in different microenvironments in seven European countries. Environment International, Volume 197, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109368.

Abstract

Introduction  Several devices have been developed to assess exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). Since the existing solutions to measure the personal exposure induced by emerging 5G New Radio (NR) are expensive, complex, and bulky, a new cost efficient and low-complexity sensor is developed, that aims to measure RF-EMF exposure in different scenarios of data transmission within different areas.

Methods  With this novel sensor, activity-based microenvironmental surveys were conducted across seven European countries: Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The device is attached to a smartphone to quantify the auto-induced uplink (a-UL) transmission component of the total exposure for a broadband frequency range from 100 MHz to 6000 MHz and is thus denoted as add-on sensor. In-situ measurements were performed for three usage scenarios, namely non-user (i.e., environmental exposure), maximum downlink (max DL), and maximum uplink (max UL) scenarios, in a large city, a secondary city, and three rural villages a priori selected within each country.

Results  Power levels were lowest in non-user scenarios (median: −2.64 dBm or 0.54mW), increasing by a factor of 5.00 dB in maximum downlink scenarios and by a factor of 14.15 dB in maximum uplink scenarios. In the maximum uplink scenarios, the highest median a-UL power of 18.68 dBm (= 73.79 mW) was recorded in The Netherlands, while the lowest median a-UL power of 4.77 dBm (= 3 mW) was observed in the UK. The analysis of the measured data showed a prominent trend of a 2.72 dB lower power in the cities compared to the villages. Further comparisons were made based on microenvironment groups, where the lowest a-UL power levels (median: 12.35 dBm) were measured in outdoor areas, with an increase of 1.78 dB and 1.91 dB in power was measured compared to public transport and public places, respectively.

Conclusion  This study compares RF-EMF power levels between different countries, urbanization settings, and usage scenarios, which is important for future epidemiological studies.

Conclusions

An add-on RF-EMF sensor was used in activity-based microenvironmental surveys. The low-cost broadband add-on sensor was used to map RF-EMF exposure in Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, The Netherlands and The UK in different microenvironments for three network usage scenarios, i.e., non-user, maximum downlink and maximum uplink. Median powers were used to determine any underlying general trends. When examining the measured data, the most prominent trend is found with the difference of 2.27 dB between the cities and villages and the different city areas. Lowest powers are obtained during the non-user scenarios and increase 5.00 dB and 14.15 dB for the maximum downlink and maximum uplink scenarios, respectively.

Future work entails the comparison of the measurement results obtained by this add-on sensor with the results of other measurement devices and phone applications, namely QualiPoc and the ExpoM – RF4, that were used simultaneously to verify the discussed trends. Including the GPS data creates the possibility of investigating present base stations on the different routes and locations. Furthermore, the temporal behavior will be investigated as this activity-based measurement campaign will be repeated after two years, to investigate the influence of the 5G deployment.

Open access paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412025001199

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The Effect of Proximity Sensor & Grip Sensor Use on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in Smartphones

Aydin E. The Effect of Proximity Sensor & Grip Sensor Use on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in Smartphones. Gazi University Journal of Science Part A: Engineering and Innovation. 2025, 12(1):292-306, 26.03.2025. doi: 10.54287/gujsa.1616086.

Abstract

Today, with the contribution of the new generation of communication technologies, many smart devices are produced. Almost every electronic device, including smart phones, smart watches, wireless headphones, tablets, emits some form of radiation. While most of this electromagnetic radiation is harmless, some of it can have potential health effects, depending on the frequency of use over long periods of time and in close usage. Specific Absorption Rate is a measure of how much human body tissue absorbs energy when the body is exposed to radiation. This measurement helps determine whether a device is safe for regular use. The SAR value may vary depending on the antenna and schematic design of the smartphone. To support high band requirements for 5G smartphones, more RF antennas required to be added in PCB design. When designing smartphones, designers also need to design proximity-grip sensors that accurately meet the industry's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) requirements. In this study, the effects of proximity and grip sensors used in smartphones on LTE and 5G NR SAR values are investigated. During these measurements, a combination of Grip and Proximity Sensors were alternately turned on and off. Although the proximity sensor and grip sensor are not mainly used to optimize SAR values, it is foreseen that they may have indirect effects on SAR. In this context, SAR measurements were made in 3D environment for different frequencies. As a result of this study, it was observed that the grip-proximity sensors used in smartphones significantly reduce the SAR value and transfer less energy to the users in close range use. The effect of using the proximity sensor on the SAR rate was measured to be approximately 8%, while the effect of using the Grip Sensor was observed to be approximately 10%.

Excerpt

In this study, the effects of the use of the grip sensor and the proximity sensor on the SAR values are realized in 4 different scenarios for different communication technologies. Both grip sensors and proximity sensors contribute indirectly to reducing SAR in mobile phones. However, their effect is primarily through optimized power management. Specifically, proximity sensing can actively reduce transmission power when the phone is near the head of the user, directly reducing SAR. Grip sensors, while helpful in managing the behavior of the phone, have a less direct impact on SAR, but they can contribute to power adjustment based on the way the device is being held. As shown in Figure 7, we achieved best case with both sensors are in ON state, provides from 5% to 11% improvement on SAR values with different frequencies. It is important to use these sensors in future smartphones as a standard hardware component.


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A Decision Support System for Managing Health Symptoms of Living Near Mobile Phone Base Stations

Parsaei H, Faraz M, Mortazavi SMJ (2024). A Decision Support System for Managing Health Symptoms of Living Near Mobile Phone Base Stations. Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, (), -. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2310-1667.

Abstract

Background: The rapid increase in the number of Mobile Phone Base Stations (MPBS) has raised global concerns about the potential adverse health effects of exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (RF-EMF). The application of machine learning techniques can enable healthcare professionals and policymakers to proactively address concerns surrounding RF-EMF exposure near MPBS.

Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the potential of machine learning models for the prediction of health symptoms associated with RF-EMF exposure in individuals residing near MPBS.

Material and Methods: This analytical study utilized Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) algorithms, incorporating 11 predictors related to participants’ living conditions. A total of 699 adults participated in the study, and model performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the Area Under Curve (AUC).

Results: The SVM-based model demonstrated strong performance, with accuracies of 85.3%, 82%, 84%, 82.4%, and 65.1% for headache, sleep disturbance, dizziness, vertigo, and fatigue, respectively. The corresponding AUC values were 0.99, 0.98, 0.920, 0.89, and 0.81. Compared to the RF model and a previously developed model, the SVM-based model exhibited higher sensitivity, particularly for fatigue, with sensitivities of 70.0%, 83.4%, 85.3%, 73.0%, and 69.0% for these five health symptoms. Particularly for predicting fatigue, sensitivity and AUC were significantly improved (70% vs. 8% and 11.1% for SVM, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MLPNN), and RF, respectively, and 0.81 vs. 0.62 and 0.64, for SVM, MLPNN, and RF, respectively).

Conclusion: Machine learning methods, specifically SVM, hold promise in effectively managing health symptoms in individuals residing near or planning to settle in the vicinity of MPBS.

Excerpts

"Figure 1 highlights three variables as the most important predictors of health symptoms: the distance from the mobile base station, the age of the participant, and the duration of residence in the area."

"From a broader standpoint, our findings are in line with studies that have reported that while there is an increasing concern regarding the potential negative health consequences of RF-EMF exposures from mobile phone base stations, the health complaints of individuals living near these base stations cannot be fully explained by these concerns alone [31]. No- tably, previous large population-based studies have shown that residents who were concerned about or attributed detrimental biological effects of RF-EMF generated by mobile phone base stations, as well as those living closer to the base station (e.g., <500 m), had more health complaints compared to others [31]. Furthermore, our results support reports showing the presence of sleep disturbances, headaches, dizziness, irritability, concentration difficulties, and hypertension in the majority of people residing near mobile phone base stations [32]. Additionally, the obtained results align with reports indicating a higher risk of developing neuropsychiatric problems in individuals living in the vicinity of mobile phone base stations. Headache, memory changes, dizziness, tremors, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbance have been reported to be significantly higher in individuals living around mobile phone base stations [33]."

Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/article_49803.html

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Brain Disease-Modifying Effects of Radiofrequency as a Non-Contact Neuronal Stimulation Technology  (Review)

Sun S, Bok J, Jang Y, Seo H. Brain Disease-Modifying Effects of Radiofrequency as a Non-Contact Neuronal Stimulation Technology. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Mar 4;26(5):2268. doi: 10.3390/ijms26052268.

Abstract

Non-invasive, non-contact, and painless methods of electrical stimulation to enhance neural function have been widely studied in recent years, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias, which cause cognitive decline and other neurological symptoms. Radiofrequency (RF), which is a rate of oscillation in the range of 3 kHz to 300 GHz (3 THz), has been suggested as one potential non-contact neuronal stimulation (NCNS) technique for improving brain function. A new type of electrical stimulation uses a radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). RF exposure has been shown to modulate neural stimulation and influence various brain activities in in vitro and in vivo models. Recent studies have explored the effects of RF-EMF on human physiology, particularly in areas such as brain activity, cognition, and sleep behavior. In this review, we summarize recent findings about the effects of non-contact stimulations in in vitro studies, in vivo animal models, and human clinical cases.

Conclusions

In conclusion, RF exposure has the potential to affect neural stimulation and influence various brain activities in in vitro and in vivo models. The in vitro/in vivo effects of RF-EMF exposure are summarized in Figure 1. RF-EMF exposure therapy might improve cognitive performance in optimized conditions. Cognitive dysfunction caused by increased reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress may be improved after RF-EMF exposure through cellular mechanisms such as mitochondrial restoration, gene expression regulation, and cytoskeletal trafficking, etc. Recent studies have explored the influence of EMF on human physiology, particularly brain activity, cognition, sleep, behavior, and sensory functions. Research data vary depending on the RF stimulation conditions, highlighting the need for more clinical trials to clarify its potential effects. However, research is still very limited, and conflicting results can arise depending on the exposure conditions and individual variations. Moreover, although extensive research has been conducted to assess the effects of RF exposure, current data remain insufficient to understand its biological impact. Therefore, careful consideration is needed before clinically applying RF exposure. Additionally, further investigation into the effects of RF and their mechanisms is essential, as many researchers strive to establish reliable safety and efficacy data.

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/5/2268

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Repeated Head Exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz Signal Do Not Alter Behavior but Modify Intracortical Gene Expression in Adult Male Mice

Lameth J, Royer J, Martin A, Marie C, Arnaud-Cormos D, Lévêque P, Poirier R, Edeline JM, Mallat M. Repeated Head Exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz Signal Do Not Alter Behavior but Modify Intracortical Gene Expression in Adult Male Mice. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Mar 10;26(6):2459. doi: 10.3390/ijms26062459. PMID: 40141104; PMCID: PMC11941837.
Abstract

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile communications promotes human exposure to electromagnetic fields exploiting the 3.5 GHz frequency band. We analyzed behaviors, cognitive functions, and gene expression in mice submitted to asymmetrical head exposure to a 5G-modulated 3.5 GHz signal. The exposures were applied for 1 h daily, 5 days per week over a six-week period, at a specific absorption rate (SAR) averaging 0.19 W/kg over the brain. Locomotor activities in an open field, object location, and object recognition memories were assessed repeatedly after four weeks of exposure and did not reveal any significant effect on the locomotion/exploration, anxiety level, or memory processes. mRNA profiling was performed at the end of the exposure period in two symmetrical areas of the right and left cerebral cortex, in which the SAR values were 0.43 and 0.14 W/kg, respectively. We found significant changes in the expression of less than 1% of the expressed genes, with over-representations of genes related to glutamatergic synapses. The right cortical area differed from the left one by an over-representation of responsive genes encoded by the mitochondrial genome. Our data show that repeated head exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal can trigger mild transcriptome alterations without changes in memory capacities or emotional state.

Exposure System and Exposure Protocol to 5G-3.5 GHz Signals

Head-only exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal were performed in awake restrained mice. Each mouse was habituated to the exposure conditions by progressively increasing the time during which the mouse was head-fixed (from 15 min to 60 min over a week) in a red plastic tube (internal diameter: 32 mm) with the hook screwed to a small plastic post (see Figure 1A,B). Each day, a dipole antenna (SID3500, MVG, Plouzané, France) was positioned 5 mm from the animal’s head in a fixed/standardized position (Figure 1B) for one hour in the vicinity of the right temporal cortex.

The exposure system was similar to the one described in a previous study [35], replacing the frequency emitted by the radiofrequency generator to generate a 5G-3.5 GHz signal corresponding to 5G NR (release 15, Digital Standards SMBVB-K444; Rohde & Schwarz, Munich, Germany) with FDD duplexing, QPSK modulation, and a 100 MHz channel bandwidth. Briefly, a radiofrequency generator emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz electromagnetic field (SMBV100B, Rohde & Schwarz) was connected to a power amplifier (ZHL-4W-422+, Mini-Circuits, Brooklin, NY, USA), a circulator (Pasternack, PE83CR1005, Irvine, CA, USA), a bidirectional coupler (Mini-circuits, ZGBDC30-372HP+, Brooklin, NY, USA) and a four-way power divider (Mini-circuits ZB4PD-462W-N+, Brooklin, NY, USA), allowing potential simultaneous exposure of four animals. A power meter (E4417A and E9323A, EPM-P Series Power Meter, Agilent, Santa Clara, CA, USA) connected to the bidirectional coupler allowed continuous measurements and monitoring of incident and reflected powers within the setup.

Each exposed mouse was matched with a PSD-exposed mouse that was in head-fixed restrained conditions next to it (at about 30 cm, Figure 1A). An antenna was also placed 5 mm from the head of the PSD-exposed mouse, but this antenna was not connected to the 5G-3.5 GHz generator.

Conclusions and Limitations

Altogether, our results show that 1h of daily head exposure to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal over a six-week period does not alter emotional state and memory performance but triggers significant modification of expression in a limited set of genes, which can potentially affect glutamatergic synapses and mitochondrial activities. We acknowledge the limitations of our study. We cannot exclude that prolongations of the head exposures beyond 6 weeks could ultimately affect the emotional state or memory abilities of the exposed mice. While the classical OF tests used in our study did not show 5G-induced change in the animals’ behavior, we cannot rule out subtle alterations in emotional state that might be revealed by applying other behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze or emergence tests [55]. The experiments were carried out with male mice because of the impossibility of separately housing male and female mice during 5G exposure and behavioral testing. Further investigation will be required to evaluate whether female and male mice could be differentially affected by chronic exposure to 5G-3.5 GHz. In addition, our RNA-seq analyses were performed at a single time point, e.g., 24 h after the last exposure to the 5G-3.5 GHz signal. The kinetics and reversibility of the reported changes in gene expression are undetermined, and further studies are needed to assess whether and to what extent the changes in transcript levels translate into proteomic or functional alterations in mitochondria and in glutamatergic synapses. The 5G-triggered transcriptome modifications were observed in cortical areas where the average SAR levels range around 0.43 or 0.14 W/kg. These SAR levels may be considered in light of the European safety guidelines for human head exposures [56], which set the upper SAR limit to 2 W/kg. This value is higher than the corresponding SAR levels reached in the brain due to the energy absorption in the surrounding skull tissues. Recent dosimetric analyses of human exposures to downlink RF-EMF from base stations show intracortical SAR levels attributed to environmental 5G-3.5 GHz that are much lower than the values applied in our study, being less than 1 mW/kg [9]. Further investigations are needed to specify the levels of SAR reached in the human cerebral cortex when mobile phones emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz signal are held close to the ear of the mobile-phone user.

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/6/2459

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5G Radiofrequency Exposure Reduces PRDM16 and C/EBP β mRNA Expression, Two Key Biomarkers for Brown Adipogenesis

Seewooruttun C, Bouguila B, Corona A, Delanaud S, Bodin R, Bach V, Desailloud R, Pelletier A. 5G Radiofrequency Exposure Reduces PRDM16 and C/EBP β mRNA Expression, Two Key Biomarkers for Brown Adipogenesis. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Mar 20;26(6):2792. doi: 10.3390/ijms26062792.

Abstract

The widespread use of wireless technologies has raised public health concerns about the biological effects of radiofrequency (RF) exposure. Children have a higher specific absorption rate (SAR) of radiation energy compared to adults. Furthermore, brown adipose tissue (BAT) is more prevalent in infants and tends to decrease with age. Previous animal studies demonstrated a cold sensation in rats exposed to 900 MHz (second generation, 2G). UCP1-dependent thermogenesis and BAT hyperplasia are two fundamental adaptive mechanisms initiated in response to cold. This study investigated the impact of short-term exposure to 2G and fifth generation (5G) on key thermogenic and adipogenic markers related to these mechanisms while considering age and exposure duration. Juvenile and young adult Wistar rats were randomized into three subgroups: a 5G group (3.5 GHz), 2G group (900 MHz), and a control group (SHAM). They were exposed to their respective continuous-wave RF signals for 1 or 2 weeks at an intensity of 1.5 V/m, with two exposure sessions of 1 h per day. After the exposure period, a RT-qPCR was carried out to evaluate the genetic markers involved in BAT thermogenesis and adipogenesis. Two adipogenic biomarkers were affected; a fold change reduction of 49% and 32% was detected for PRDM16 (p = 0.016) and C/EBP β (p = 0.0002), respectively, after 5G exposure, regardless of age and exposure duration. No significant RF effect was found on UCP1-dependent thermogenesis at a transcriptional level. These findings suggest that exposure to a 5G radiofrequency may partially disrupt brown adipocyte differentiation and thermogenic function by downregulating PRDM16 and C/EBP β, possibly leading to higher cold sensitivity.

RF Exposure System

The 5G group was exposed to a continuous-wave RF signal set at 3.5 GHz and the 2G group to one at 900 MHz, with an exposure period of one or two weeks. The two one-hour RF exposure sessions per day were applied at an intensity of 1.5 V/m. These sessions were scheduled randomly; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. According to the French national frequency agency (ANFR), this intensity level reflects our current environmental exposure when using wireless network technologies and mobile phones [27].

A generator (AnaPico ASPIN4010—9 kHz–4000 MHz, Glattbrugg, Switzerland), located outside the climatic chambers, was set to produce a 3.5 GHz band signal for 5G exposure. It was coupled with an amplifier RFPA (RF26003800-4x0.5W) connected to one antenna (antenna Laird multi-band CFS60383) inside the chambers. For 2G exposure, the same generator was set to 900 MHz, paired with another amplifier RFPA (RFS7002500-6x0.5) capable of emitting this RF band, and connected to two antennas (Kathrein 800-10465, Rosenheim, Germany).

The antennas were aligned horizontally in the climatic chamber, 80 cm above the exposed rats’ boxes, thus at a height larger than 2.4λ and 9λ, at 900 MHz and 3.5 GHz, respectively, with λ representing the wavelength. The position of the antennas was adjusted to minimize the variation in the field amplitude within each cage and between cages.

Using an electric field probe EP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy), we measured the intensity level in five different positions in each cage. An electric field of 1.6 ± 0.4 V/m was measured under 5G exposure and 1.6 ± 0.5 V/m under 2G exposure. These data were recorded on WinEP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy). The transmitting device did not generate a static magnetic field. For the non-exposed groups (controls), the antennas in the adjacent climatic chamber remained unconnected to the generator.

Using these data, the mean intensity of the RF signal per cage was used to estimate the mean whole-body SAR during the experiment. The mean whole-body SAR was calculated to be 0.07 mW/kg for the 5G exposure and 0.24 mW/kg for the 2G exposure, following the method described by Mai et al. [4].

Conclusions

Our research showed a fold change decrease of 49% for PRDM16 and 32% for C/EBP β in terms of their mRNA levels after exposure to 5G. As mentioned previously, these adipogenic markers are important in the differentiation and maturation of brown adipocytes from BAT precursors, as well as the maintenance of their thermogenic capacity. In contrast, UCP1-dependent thermogenesis was not impacted by RF exposure at the transcriptional level. Most of the studied thermogenic markers showed no age-related or exposure duration-related effects associated with RF exposure, except for PPAR α and ADRβ3. This study provides new insights into the potential impact of 5G exposure on brown adipogenesis. The disrupted differentiation and thermogenic capacity of brown adipocytes through PRDM16 and C/EBP β downregulation may affect the development and characteristics of BAT, potentially leading to increased cold sensitivity after RF exposure. These findings could partially explain the physiological events related to cold stress seen after RF exposures. However, it is important to investigate the peripheral tail temperature in rats in order to confirm our hypothesis and explain the observed biological effects. Furthermore, it may provide valuable insights to help us better understand the impact of low-intensity 2G and 5G RF signals on vasomotor responses. Most studies on low-level radiofrequency exposure have predominantly focused on “non-thermal” biological effects, such as oxidative stress, genetic instability, and reproductive health, although these findings remain heterogeneous [77]. The impact of low-intensity RFs on thermoregulation remains largely an uncharted aspect of environmental health and safety. This research addresses this gap and can help to raise public awareness about the potential health risks posed by radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation, particularly 5G, with the rise in wireless technologies.

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/6/2792

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The CB1R of mPFC is involved in anxiety-like behavior induced by 0.8/2.65 GHz dual-frequency electromagnetic radiation

Sun B, Xue T, Gao AN, Wang XY, Wu S, Liu XM, Zhang LH, Li MH, Zou DF, Gao Y, Wang CZ. The CB1R of mPFC is involved in anxiety-like behavior induced by 0.8/2.65 GHz dual-frequency electromagnetic radiation. Front Mol Neurosci. 2025 Mar 12;18:1534324. doi: 10.3389/fnmol.2025.1534324.

Abstract

As mobile phones and communication base stations become more widespread, concerns have arisen regarding the potential risks of environmental exposure to multi-frequency electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and its effects on mental health. To address these concerns, our study established a dual-frequency EMR mouse model at 0.8/2.65 GHz to explore potential molecular mechanisms and intervention targets. Our results revealed that exposure to this dual-frequency EMR significantly induced anxiety-like behavior in mice. Molecular experiments further showed a significant decrease in cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of the mice, along with a notable reduction in the endogenous cannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol and anandamide. This led to a downregulation of the entire endocannabinoid system (ECS). Additional confirmation was obtained by overexpressing and knocking down CB1R in the mPFC. We found that increasing mPFC CB1R levels could effectively reduce anxiety-like behavior, while decreasing mPFC CB1R levels exacerbated it. Furthermore, we found dual-frequency EMR induced the change of ECS in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). Notably, female mice exhibited similar behavioral phenotypes and molecular mechanisms in response to dual-frequency EMR. In summary, our study demonstrates that anxiety induced by dual-frequency EMR is closely linked to the function of the ECS in the mPFC and BLA, and that CB1R expression in the mPFC plays a significant role in modulating emotional behavior in mice.

EMR exposure equipment

The electromagnetic reverberation chamber (RC) utilized in this experiment was developed by Wu Tongning's team at the Department of Environment and Security, China Institute of Information and Communication Technology (Li et al., 2016). Constructed with reinforced concrete, the RC is a large shielded enclosure featuring highly conductive reflective walls and multiple mechanical stirrers. The stirrers' rotation alters the chamber's boundary conditions, creating a statistically uniform, isotropic, and randomly polarized electromagnetic environment. Key components of the RC include signal generators, power amplifiers, and shielding structures. The chamber can produce electromagnetic waves within a frequency range of 0 to 3 GHz. In this study, 0.8 and 2.65 GHz frequencies were applied at a dose of 4 W/kg. The electric field intensity was calculated based on the mice's average body weight, with specific experimental parameters detailed in Table 1.

Conclusions

In summary, this study demonstrates that anxiety-like behavior induced by dual-frequency EMR is closely associated with the ECS in the mPFC and BLA. Moreover, overexpression of CB1R in the mPFC significantly alleviates anxiety-like behavior in mice, while knockdown of CB1R in the mPFC exacerbates negative emotional responses (Figure 7). This research offers new insights into potential strategies for the treatment or prevention of the effects of dual-frequency EMR.

Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/molecular-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnmol.2025.1534324/full

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Mitigating Heat-Induced Sperm Damage and Testicular Tissue Abnormalities: The Protective Role of Radiofrequency Radiation from Wi-Fi Routers in Rodent Models

Mahmoudi R, Karbalay-Doust S, Masoudi E, Jafari-Barmak M, Ghanbri A, Nikseresht M, Mortazavi SMJ, Mortazavi SA. (2024). Mitigating Heat-Induced Sperm Damage and Testicular Tissue Abnormalities: The Protective Role of Radiofrequency Radiation from Wi-Fi Routers in Rodent Models. Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, (), -. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2405-1759

Abstract

Background: Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) have raised concerns due to their potential adverse effects on reproductive health. However, emerging evidence indicates that exposure to low-level RF-EMF may induce adaptive responses, rendering cells or organisms more resilient to subsequent stressors.

Objective: To investigate whether exposure to 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi radiation could mitigate heat-induced damage in the reproductive system of male rats.

Material and Methods: In this factorial experimental study, 32 adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, RF-EMF alone, heat stress alone, and RF-EMF combined with heat stress. Rats in the RF-EMF group were exposed to RF-EMF for 2 hours daily over 52 days, while those in the heat group experienced 10 minutes of heat stress per day over the same period. The ‘RF-EMF + heat’ group received both RF-EMF and heat exposure. After 52 days, the testes and sperm parameters were assessed.

Results: Animals exposed to ‘RF-EMF + heat’ combined with heat showed significant improvements in testis volume, tubular epithelium, interstitium, cell counts, sperm quality, and Leydig cells compared to those exposed to heat alone (P<0.05).

Conclusion: As far as we know, this is the first study to explore the potential protective effects of RF-EMF exposure against heat-induced structural abnormalities in the testes of male rats. Our findings suggest that RF-EMF exposure may mitigate heat-induced damage, possibly through the induction of adaptive responses. These results have implications for various fields, including reproductive biology, environmental health, and occupational safety, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. 

Excerpts

The Wi-Fi router operated on power level of 1W and the Specific Absorption Rate at the distance of 30 cm in animals’ head level, as reported in another publication by our team, was 0.091 W/kg [11]

The results suggest that RF-EMF exposure may lead to alterations in testicular weight, volume, and sperm parameters, consistent with previous research highlighting the potential negative effects on male reproductive health.

The observed decline in sperm parameters and germinal cell count in response to RF-EMF exposure and heat align with existing literature, indicating a potential link between environmental factors and male fertility. The increase in Leydig cells following exposure to heat underscores the intricate cellular responses to thermal stress.

Furthermore, the concept of adaptive response (AR) emerges as a potential mechanism through which cells may develop resistance to subsequent exposures to damaging agents. The induction of AR by RF-EMF and heat, as suggested by the study results, presents a fascinating avenue for further exploration into the protective mechanisms activated in response to low-level injuries.

Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/article_50328.html

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Histomorphometry and Sperm Quality in Male Rats Exposed to 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi

Vijay S, Ibrahim SF, Osman K, Zulkefli AF, Mat Ros MF, Jamaludin N, Syed Taha SMA, Hairulazam A, Jaffar FHF. Histomorphometry and Sperm Quality in Male Rats Exposed to 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi. Reproduction. 2025 Apr 1:REP-25-0048. doi: 10.1530/REP-25-0048.

Abstract

Numerous studies have documented the effect of 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi exposure on the testes and sperm quality. Nevertheless, detailed histological alterations of other male reproductive organs are underexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate detailed histological alterations of the testes, epididymis, seminal vesicle, coagulating organ, and sperms parameters following 2.45GHz Wi-Fi exposure. Eighteen adult male Sprague Dawley rats (N=18) were equally divided into three groups (n=6): Control, 4-hour, and 24-hour groups. The groups were exposed to an active router daily for 4 or 24 hours, respectively. The Control group was sham-exposed using an inactive router. The exposure lasted for eight weeks at a 20cm distance, with a power density of 0.141W/m² and a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 0.41W/Kg. Histological findings revealed vacuolation in the testes and the corpus epididymis of the 4-hour and 24-hour groups. The seminal vesicle in both exposed groups exhibited multifocal atypical hyperplasia. Besides, the seminiferous tubule diameter decreased gradually in both exposed groups, with a substantial decrease in the 24-hour group. The spermatogenesis index in 4-hour and 24-hour groups also reduced significantly. The latter result was reflected in the sperm concentration, where both groups showed a significant reduction compared to the Control group. Sperm motility also decreased significantly in the 4-hour groups. Interestingly, there was a substantial increase in sperm viability in the 24-hour group. These findings indicate that 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi exposure causes changes in the histology and histomorphometry measurement and impairs important sperm parameters. This highlights the consequences following Wi-Fi exposure on male reproductive health.


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The Frequency of a Magnetic Field Determines the Behavior of Tumor and Non-Tumor Nerve Cell Models

López de Mingo I, Rivera González MX, Ramos Gómez M, Maestú Unturbe C. The Frequency of a Magnetic Field Determines the Behavior of Tumor and Non-Tumor Nerve Cell Models. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Feb 26;26(5):2032. doi: 10.3390/ijms26052032.

Abstract

The involvement of magnetic fields in basic cellular processes has been studied for years. Most studies focus their results on a single frequency and intensity. Intensity has long been the central parameter in hypotheses of interaction between cells and magnetic fields; however, frequency has always played a secondary role. The main objective of this study was to obtain a specific frequency that allows a reduction in the viability and proliferation of glioblastoma (CT2A) and neuroblastoma (N2A) cell models. These were compared with an astrocyte cell model (C8D1A) (nontumor) to determine whether there is a specific frequency of response for each of the cell lines used. The CT2A, C8D1A, and N2A cell lines were exposed to a magnetic field of 100 µT and a variable frequency range between 20 and 100 Hz for 24, 48 and 72 h. The results fit a biological window model in which the viability and proliferation of N2A and CT2A cells decrease statistically significantly in a 50 Hz center of value window. In addition, the non-tumor cell model showed different behavior from tumor cell models depending on the applied frequency. These results are promising in the use of magnetic fields for therapeutic purposes.

Conclusions

It has been demonstrated that there are certain frequencies that can reduce the proliferation and viability of tumor cell models of nervous tissue. Exposure of cell models to different magnetic field frequency values produces a cellular response in viability and proliferation that responds to a “biological window” model centered at 50 Hz for the tumor models used. This window is cell-type specific. Astrocytes, the non-tumor cell line of comparison, show an increase in viability at 20 and 40 Hz. This allows us to consider the use of specific ’bioactive’ frequencies in therapeutic applications for different pathologies such as tumor development (with the consequent decrease in viability and proliferation) or neurodegenerative diseases (with the increase in viability and proliferation of the astrocytic network).

Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/5/2032

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20 kHz Magnetic Field Emission of Induction Cooking Heaters

Kamata K, Haga A. 20kHz Magnetic Field Emission of Induction Cooking Heaters. EMC Europe 2004, International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility, Eindhoven, The Netherlands, 2004, pp. 1-6, doi: 10.23919/EMC.2004.10805977.

Abstract

The distribution of the magnetic field leakage produced by an induction cooking heater (IH) is measured and analyzed using the finite element method. First, the dependence of the amplitude of leaked magnetic fields on the distance from the IH was measured with two S-type pans, one S-type pan, and one L-type pan and compared with the ICNIRP limit of general public exposure to 20 kHz magnetic fields. Next, the validity of the analysis is confirmed by comparing with measurement. The effects of pan size, etc. on magnetic field leakage are analyzed. The analysis makes clear the reason why the measured leaked magnetic fields from the IH are different with various types of pans. The data presented in this paper should be useful in understanding the levels of magnetic field produced by IHs, and also in estimating magnetic field exposure in homes and workplaces. 

Conclusion

Four different lHs made by four manufacturers were surveyed for their magnetic field characteristics. The magnetic field levels of IH appliances as a function of distance were presented in graphical form. All sets of measurements were carried out at the fundamental frequency of 20kHz and narrow-band rms levels of magnetic flux densities expressed in μT. The magnetic field densities generated by the THs of manufacturers A, B, C and D are different. The maximum magnetic field measurement was 16 μT in the case of manufacturer A with two S-type pans at X = Z= 0, Y= -20 cm.

The analysis showed that the basic model (two S- type pans) had the most magnetic leakage followed by one S-type pan, and two L-type pans. The analysis result was in agreement with the measurement results.

https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=10805977&isnumber=10805570

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Extremely low frequency magnetic field distracts zebrafish from a visual cognitive task

Ziegenbalg L, Güntürkün O, Winklhofer M. Extremely low frequency magnetic field distracts zebrafish from a visual cognitive task. Sci Rep. 2025 Mar 12;15(1):8589. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-90194-x.

Abstract

Electromagnetic fields emitted from overhead power lines and subsea cables are widely regarded to be a disruptive factor for animals using the natural magnetic field as orientation cue for guiding their directed movements. However, it is not known if anthropogenic electromagnetic fields also have the potential to disturb animals attending to information from other sensory modalities. To find out, we trained adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) individually to perform avoidance behavior in response to a visual signal (green LED light spot), which in the exposure group was presented simultaneously with a sinusoidally changing magnetic field (0.3 Hz, group A: 0.015 mT, group B: 0.06 mT). Despite the salience of the visual signal, which was both sufficient and necessary to elicit conditioned avoidance responses, the 0.06 mT magnetic condition had a negative impact on learning performance and response behavior. This suggests that extremely low frequency technical magnetic fields of Earth strength amplitude can act as cross-modal distractor that diverts the attention of animals away from environmentally relevant cues based on nonmagnetic sensory modalities. Our research highlights the need to study the role of anthropogenic magnetic fields as sensory pollutant beyond the scope of magnetic orientation behavior.

Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-90194-x

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Learned magnetic map cues and two mechanisms of magnetoreception in turtles

Goforth KM, Lohmann CMF, Gavin A, Henning R, Harvey A, Hinton TL, Lim DS, Lohmann KJ. Learned magnetic map cues and two mechanisms of magnetoreception in turtles. Nature. 2025 Feb;638(8052):1015-1022. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-08554-y. 

Abstract

Growing evidence indicates that migratory animals exploit the magnetic field of the Earth for navigation, both as a compass to determine direction and as a map to determine geographical position1. It has long been proposed that, to navigate using a magnetic map, animals must learn the magnetic coordinates of the destination2,3, yet the pivotal hypothesis that animals can learn magnetic signatures of geographical areas has, to our knowledge, yet to be tested. Here we report that an iconic navigating species, the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), can learn such information. When fed repeatedly in magnetic fields replicating those that exist in particular oceanic locations, juvenile turtles learned to distinguish magnetic fields in which they encountered food from magnetic fields that exist elsewhere, an ability that might underlie foraging site fidelity. Conditioned responses in this new magnetic map assay were unaffected by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields, a treatment expected to disrupt radical-pair-based chemical magnetoreception4-6, suggesting that the magnetic map sense of the turtle does not rely on this mechanism. By contrast, orientation behaviour that required use of the magnetic compass was disrupted by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields. The findings provide evidence that two different mechanisms of magnetoreception underlie the magnetic map and magnetic compass in sea turtles.



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Effects of moderate static magnetic fields on voltage-gated potassium ion channels in sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells

Kaneda E, Kawai T, Okamura Y, Miyagawa S. Effects of moderate static magnetic fields on voltage-gated potassium ion channels in sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells. Physiol Rep. 2025 Mar;13(6):e70236. doi: 10.14814/phy2.70236.

Abstract

While exposure of moderate static magnetic fields (SMF) can alter neuronal excitability, the effects on sympathetic neurons remain underexplored. This study investigates the effects of moderate SMF on Kv channels in the plasma membrane of sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells. The current density of Kv channels was significantly lower in the 18-h magnet-exposed group, with effects persisting even after the magnet was removed before patch-clamp measurements. The current density of outward current in the presence of TEA was not different between the two groups, indicating that magnetic field affects TEA-sensitive Kv channels. To further explore these changes, RNA sequencing was performed on samples from both the Sham and 18-h magnet-exposed groups, identifying 37 moderate SMF-sensitive genes. Changes in mRNA expression levels and KEGG analysis suggested that pathways involved in the inhibition of neuronal excitability, such as GABAB receptor activation and Kir3 channel opening, may be more likely to be activated. In conclusion, moderate SMF is strongly associated with reduced current density in PC12 cells, particularly affecting Kv channels. The present study provides fundamental information on the influence of long-term SMF exposure on the excitability of sympathetic neurons.


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Enhancement Effect of Static Magnetic Field on Bactericidal Activity

Zhang M, Song Y, Wang J, Shi X, Chen Q, Ding R, Mou J, Fang H, Zhou Y, Chen R. Enhancement Effect of Static Magnetic Field on Bactericidal Activity. Small. 2025 Mar 22:e2412334. doi: 10.1002/smll.202412334.

Abstract

The biological effects of magnetic fields are pervasive in microorganisms, with significant attention given to alternating magnetic fields (AMFs). However, AMFs induce electrical and magnetothermal effects, which complicate the interpretation of magnetic field-induced biological effects and introduce uncertainties regarding cytotoxicity in practical applications. The static magnetic field (SMF) with few variables and high biocompatibility presents a promising alternative for both understanding biological mechanisms and ensuring safe applications, but has a remaining problem on weak interactions with microorganisms. Here we show that the combination of SMF with paramagnetic calcium-polypyrrole nanoparticles (Ca-PPy) remarkably enhances bactericidal activity. Our experiments indicate that the synergistic action of SMF and Ca-PPy significantly promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), i.e., singlet oxygen and superoxide anion radicals, in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), coupled with the physical disruption of bacterial membrane, exhibiting the extraordinary bactericidal performance (the bactericidal rate is over 94%). The mechanism disclosed by computations is that the singlet-to-triplet transition of radical pairs can be increased by the introduction of magnetic fields. These findings offer new insights into the biological effects of magnetic fields and pave the way for their safe, highly effective use in bactericidal applications.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40119825/

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Magneto-oncology: a radical pair primer

Hore PJ. Magneto-oncology: a radical pair primer. Front Oncol. 2025 Mar 7;15:1539718. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1539718

Abstract

There are few well-established biophysical mechanisms by which external magnetic fields can influence the biochemistry of molecules in living systems. The radical pair mechanism is arguably the most promising. In this mini-review I summarize the characteristics of radical pairs in a way that may be useful to those engaged in the field of magneto-oncology. The intention is to help researchers decide whether an observed biomedical magnetic field effect could have its origin in radical pair biochemistry. Armed with a physically plausible interaction mechanism, it may be possible to devise and refine a theoretical model and thereby iteratively optimise therapeutic protocols. Such an approach may also help identify experimental artefacts.

Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2025.1539718/full

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Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing

Prokscha A, Sheikh F, Jalali M et al. Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing. Sci Rep 15, 10638 (2025). doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-91630-8.

Abstract

Terahertz (THz) technology provides precise monitoring capabilities in dynamic environments, offering unique insights into insect habitats. Our study focuses on environmental monitoring of European honey bees (Apis mellifera) through a combination of measurements and simulations. Initially, the dielectric material properties of honey bee body parts are characterized across the spectral range of 1–500 GHz to collect heterogeneous empirical data. To extend the study, honey bee mockups made from polyamide 12 (PA12) and epoxy resin are employed and validated as effective substitutes for real bees through comparative scattering analyses. The research further explores radar cross-section (RCS), imaging, and spectral properties using advanced THz technologies, including resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs) operating at 250 GHz and THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) for frequencies exceeding 250 GHz. High-resolution imaging, utilizing a 450 GHz bandwidth, captures intricate anatomical features of both real and 3D-printed bees, showcasing the potential of THz technology for detailed environmental monitoring. Finally, simulations at 300 GHz assess the dosimetry and feasibility of non-invasive, continuous monitoring approaches based on the heterogeneous honey bee model.

Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-91630-8

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Sensation of electric fields in the Drosophila melanogaster larva

Tadres D, Riedl J, Eden A, Bontempo AE, Lin J, Reid SF, Roehrich B, Williams K, Sepunaru L, Louis M. Sensation of electric fields in the Drosophila melanogaster larva. Curr Biol. 2025 Mar 28:S0960-9822(25)00299-4. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.014.

Abstract

Electrosensation has emerged as a crucial sensory modality for social communication, foraging, and predation across the animal kingdom. However, its presence and functional role as well as the neural basis of electric field perception in Drosophila and other invertebrates remain unclear. In environments with controlled electric fields, we identified electrosensation as a new sense in the Drosophila melanogaster larva. We found that the Drosophila larva performs robust electrotaxis: when exposed to a uniform electric field, larvae migrate toward the cathode (negatively charged elecrode) and quickly respond to changes in the orientation of the field to maintain cathodal movement. Through a behavioral screen, we identified a subset of sensory neurons located at the tip of the larval head that are necessary for electrotaxis. Calcium imaging revealed that a pair of Gr66a-positive sensory neurons (one on each side of the head) encodes the strength and orientation of the electric field. Our results indicate that electric fields elicit robust behavioral and neural responses in the Drosophila larva, providing new evidence for the significance of electrosensation in invertebrates.

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