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 2500 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 (646 page pdf):
To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2021 through 2023
click on the following link (867 page pdf):
To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 through 2020
click on the following link (875 page pdf):
The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.
Human Bioelectromagnetism and the Environment: Introduction to the Problem
Nevoit
G, Potyazhenko M, Mintser O, Jarusevicius G, Vainoras A. Human
Bioelectromagnetism and the Environment: Introduction to the Problem. Applied Sciences. 2026; 16(8):3627. https://doi.org/10.3390/
Abstract
Background: The increasing contribution of anthropogenic
electromagnetic radiation has altered the Earth’s electromagnetic
landscape and poses a serious problem for electromagnetic ecology and
medicine. The aim of this study was to develop a working theoretical
framework to describe the current state of interaction between the human
body and electromagnetic fields in the external environment and to
facilitate transdisciplinary collaboration among scientists in studying
and addressing this problem.
Methods: Extensive research has been
conducted in the literature to provide a comprehensive presentation of
data, enabling a working concept of the interaction between the human
body and electromagnetic fields in the external environment.
Results: General data, theoretical foundations, mechanisms, and results
of the interaction of external electromagnetic fields with the human
body were presented.
Conclusions: There is a proven interaction
between the human body and external electromagnetic fields, as the body
is part of the Earth’s electromagnetic landscape and has biophysical
mechanisms for coupling with it. The increase in anthropogenic
electromagnetic radiation is an electromagnetic environmental problem,
and this requires further study of the safety issues and the impact of
anthropogenic electromagnetic fields on the human body, and a
reassessment of their biological impact on the human body, tightening
the standards and requirements for electromagnetic safety in places
where people live, a moratorium on further deployment of 5G, urgent
application of the precautionary principle, and stricter exposure
limits, especially for Wireless Communication Electromagnetic Fields.
Conclusions
Based on the
analyzed scientific data available through literature search, the
following can be stated:
- There is a proven interaction between the human body and external electromagnetic fields (natural and anthropogenic).
- The human body is a component of the Earth’s electromagnetic landscape and has biophysical mechanisms for coupling with it.
- The development of human civilization has led to the active use of electromagnetic energy with the creation of a large number of anthropogenic sources and to a change in the Earth’s electromagnetic landscape.
- Anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation has fundamental differences from the natural electromagnetic background of the Earth and has a proven negative impact on the human body.
- At present, anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation is a serious problem in electromagnetic ecology.
- To solve the existing problems of electromagnetic ecology, a transdisciplinary consolidation of scientists is necessary for further study of safety issues and the impact of anthropogenic electromagnetic fields on the human body.
- Such measures as re-evaluation of the biological impact of Extremely Low Frequency and Wireless Communication Electromagnetic Fields, classification of them as probably carcinogenic (Group 2A) or carcinogenic (Group 1) for humans, tightening of electromagnetic safety standards and requirements in places of human habitation, a moratorium on further deployment of 5G, urgent application of the precautionary principle, stricter exposure limits, especially for Wireless Communication Electromagnetic Fields are necessary.
- Further study of aspects of biomagnetism of the human body is a relevant and promising transdisciplinary scientific direction of fundamental science, which is associated with future discoveries in understanding the essence of human life and health.
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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Children’s Sensitivity to Environmental Electromagnetic Fields
Bevington M. Children’s Sensitivity to Environmental Electromagnetic Fields. International Journal of Research in Medical and Clinical Science (IJRMCS). Volume 4, Issue 1, 2026.
Abstract
This review concerns children’s health in relation to their typical environmental exposure at home and school to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), including radiofrequency from Wi-Fi, mobile phones and masts. It examines the extent to which children, here defined as including adolescents up to adulthood, are physiologically more sensitive to EMFs than adults, especially in the early years and while the brain is still developing myelin. It is challenging for parents, teachers andclinicians to identify the level of sensitivity to EMFs in a particular child and whether that child suffers electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS). There are well established short-term and long-term health hazards associated with EMF exposure. In addition, the psychological and social harms from digital addiction are becoming better recognised. Finally, children’s rights and the appropriate protection of children from EMF exposure are considered. This includes the problems of the ICNIRP’s thermal guidelines which are unprotective of sensitive groups like children, and the World Health Organization’s arbitrary denial of physiological sensitivity to EMFs. With accurate information and appropriate long-term guidelines, parents, teachers and general practitioners can help ensure that children’s EMF environments are safe and healthy.
Conclusion
All children are more sensitive than adults to the EMFs in their environment and need greater protection at home and school from short-term and long-term effects. Children who are hypersensitive to EMFs need particular protection, and all children need protection from being exposed so much that they become hypersensitive. Parents and teachers need to provide children with an environment which has safe levels of EMFs below the threshold for adverse health. However, many parents and teachers lack the necessary information, since “the media, the responsible organizations (World Health Organization) and the governments are not transmitting this crucial information to the population, who remain uninformed.” [164] The greater information and appropriate actions outlined above and elsewhere [165] show how children’s health can be protected, and how their electromagnetic environment can be made safe.
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Recording the extremely low
frequency pulsations of wireless communication electromagnetic fields
Panagopoulos DJ, Litovsky R, Chamberlin K. Recording the extremely low
frequency pulsations of wireless communication electromagnetic fields.
Electromagn Biol Med. 2026 Apr 19:1-10. doi:
10.1080/15368378.2026.2654072.
Abstract
All digital Wireless Communication (WC) electromagnetic field
(EMF)/radiation (EMR) signals (from mobile/"smart" phones and
corresponding base antennas, cordless domestic phones, Wireless Fidelity
(Wi-Fi) routers, "Bluetooth" wireless connection among electronic
devices, etc.) are emitted discontinuously, in the form of on/off pulses
repeated at various Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) rates. Yet, many
scientists ignore/underestimate these ELF pulsations, and characterize
all WC emissions simply as Radio Frequency (RF)/Microwave (MW) signals.
Here, we provide recordings of ELF pulsations with respect to time,
emitted by the most common WC devices, specifically Wi-Fi router, 4th and 5th
Generation (4G, 5G) mobile phones. We used a broadband antenna,
connected to an RF spectrum analyzer (SA), calibrated the SA at the
signal's carrier MW frequency and recorded the power of the final
emitted RF/MW signal with respect to time. We recorded emissions at 10
ms, 100 ms, 1 s, and 2 s sweep times, capturing the pulses repeated at
various ELF rates, clearly showing the ELF pulsing emissions from the WC
devices. As in all real WC EMF signals emitted by commercially
available devices and corresponding antennas, there is intense
variability in the amplitude, shape, duration, and repetition frequency
of the pulses. The present study, in combination with the Ion Forced
Oscillation and Voltage-Gated Ion Channel (IFO-VGIC) mechanism of
non-thermal EMF-bioeffects, imply that the non-thermal biological and
health effects of WC EMFs are induced by the ELF pulsation, modulation
and variability, and not by the standalone (non-modulated) RF carrier
wave EMFs which can produce only heating.
Plain language summary
Electromagnetic fields/radiation (EMFs/EMR) emitted by digital wireless communication (WC) devices (mobile/“smart” phones, cordless domestic phones, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) routers for connection to the Internet, etc.) and corresponding base antennas, are usually referred to simply as Radio Frequency (RF: 300 kHz–300 GHz) EMFs/EMR. Yet, as we have repeatedly declared before, this reflects only one part of the reality. The other part is that the RF signals that carry the transmitted information (text, speech, music, images, video, etc.) are contained within on/off pulses which are emitted/repeated at various Extremely Low Frequency (ELF: 3–3000 Hz) rates. Moreover, the RF signal within the pulses is modulated mostly by ELF EMFs, and the final signal contains random variability especially in amplitude which lies mainly in the Ultra-Low Frequency (ULF: 0–3 Hz) band. Therefore, all WC EMFs are a combination of high (RF) and low (ELF/ULF) frequencies. To record the ELF pulses, specific methodology and instrumentation are required. Here, we have recorded these pulses (as power with respect to time) from the most common WC EMFs/EMR, namely Wi-Fi, 4th, and 5th Generation (4G, 5G) WC EMFs/EMR. The present study, in combination with a widely accepted biophysical mechanism, the Ion Forced Oscillation and Voltage-Gated Ion Channel (IFO-VGIC) mechanism, of non-thermal EMF-bioeffects, imply that the non-thermal biological and health effects associated with exposure to WC EMFs are induced by the ELF/ULF pulsation, modulation and variability, and not by the standalone (non-modulated) RF carrier wave EMFs which can produce only heating at adequately high intensities rarely found in the environment.
Excerpt
The present study clearly shows the existence of ELF pulsations in modern digital WC EMFs, which, in combination with the IFO-VGIC mechanism, fully explain and further validate the non-thermal biological and health effects reported in the EMF-bioeffects literature to be induced by various types of WC EMFs. An important application of the present research should be that the scientific community, the health authorities, and the industry, should stop treating WC EMFs as standalone RF EMFs with thermal-only effects, but should start measuring their inherent ELF pulsations, and considering the corresponding non-thermal biological effects. Especially, the health authorities should revise their guidelines to account for the non-thermal biological and health effects due to the ELF pulsations which occur at RF power densities much lower than those inducing thermal effects.
In conclusion, the more we know about the physical characteristics and waveforms of the various EMFs and the mechanism of induced biological effects, the more we understand about these effects and how to control them. We hope the present study effectively contributes toward a more realistic understanding, recording, and quantization of the physical properties, and consequently, a more relevant evaluation and understanding of the non-thermal effects and health risks associated with WC EMF exposures.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.
A comprehensive
mechanism of biological and health effects of anthropogenic extremely
low frequency and wireless communication electromagnetic fields
Panagopoulos DJ, Yakymenko I, De Iuliis GN, Chrousos GP. A comprehensive
mechanism of biological and health effects of anthropogenic extremely
low frequency and wireless communication electromagnetic fields. Front
Public Health. 2025 Jun 4;13:1585441. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1585441
Abstract
Exposure to anthropogenic electromagnetic fields (EMFs), especially those of wireless communications (WC) has increased tremendously. This is an unprecedented phenomenon throughout biological evolution because, all anthropogenic EMFs, being fully polarized, coherent, and, especially WC EMFs, highly variable, differ substantially from the natural EMFs. WC EMFs consist of Microwave (MW) carrier waves, modulated, by Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) signals, and included in on/off pulses repeated at various ELF rates. Moreover, they exhibit intense random variability, mainly in the Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) band. Thus, WC EMFs are a combination of MW and ELF/ULF EMFs. The combination of polarization/coherence and intense low-frequency (ELF/ULF) variability seems to be the key to EMF-bioactivity. Epidemiological and laboratory studies highlight a connection between ELF or WC EMF exposure and cancer, infertility, electro-hypersensitivity, and various other pathologies. Studies also find DNA damage and Oxidative Stress (OS) which explain these pathologies. While man-made EMFs cannot directly ionize molecules, they are capable of doing this indirectly in biological tissue, by triggering the biosynthesis of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) which can damage biomolecules, including DNA. The (over)production of ROS and the consequent OS are triggered by irregular gating of Voltage-Gated Ion Channels (VGICs) in the cell membranes as described by the Ion Forced Oscillation (IFO)-VGIC mechanism: Mobile ions within VGICs forced to oscillate by the applied ELF/ULF EMFs exert forces on the voltage sensors of the VGICs, similar to or greater than the forces that physiologically gate those channels, resulting in their irregular gating (dysfunction). Dysfunction of ion channels disrupts intracellular ionic concentrations. This triggers ROS overproduction and OS by the ROS-generating systems/enzymes in the cells, such as the electron transport chain (ETC) in the mitochondria, or the NADPH/NADH oxidases (NOXs), the Nitric Oxide synthases (NOS), etc. The IFO-VGIC mechanism and the consequent OS constitute a comprehensive mechanism that explains all known adverse biological and health effects reported to be induced by anthropogenic EMFs.
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Electromagnetic field-inducible in vivo gene switch for remote spatiotemporal control of gene expression
Gemini: "For years, the idea that low-level, non-heating (non-thermal) EMFs could significantly alter cellular function was highly controversial. Physicists and skeptics rightly asked: If the field isn't physically heating the cell, what is the biological "antenna" receiving the signal? Isolating Cyb5b provides that missing hardware. It proves that living cells possess native molecular machinery capable of sensing electromagnetic fields and translating them into biological instructions. This (study) validates a core concept of quantum biology—showing that quantum spin-state changes at the electron level (within the heme group of the protein) can drive massive physiological outcomes.""Perhaps the most profound biophysical takeaway is that the EMF didn't just blast the cell into a state of generic stress. Instead, the Cyb5b sensor converted the EMF into rhythmic oscillatory calcium dynamics. This showed that EMFs can write an intracellular timing structure. It means we aren't just zapping cells; we are speaking to them in a structured, rhythmic chemical language that the cell natively uses to make complex biological decisions."
Kim J, Hwang Y, Kim S, Kwon D, Park J, Cho B, An S, Kang S, Kim Y, Kim
S, Lengner CJ, Kim S, Kwon Y, Sung JS, Kim J. Electromagnetic
field-inducible in vivo gene switch for remote spatiotemporal control of
gene expression. Cell. 2026 Apr 14:S0092-8674(26)00330-2. doi:
10.1016/j.cell.2026.03.029.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/
Highlights
Highlights
• EMF-inducible gene switch (Ei) for precise spatiotemporal gene expression control
• Cyb5b mediates EMF-specific calcium oscillations for gene switch activation
• Ei gene switch enables in vivo rejuvenation by reversing aging phenotypes
• Ei system models Alzheimer’s disease and restores serotonergic function in vivo
Summary
Gaining precise control of gene expression is crucial in biomedical applications. However, spatiotemporal precision remains challenging. Here, we present a remotely controlled in vivo gene switch responsive to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that enables precise spatiotemporal activation of target genes. We uncovered the EMF-inducible gene switch activation mechanism via a CRISPR-Cas9 screen, identifying cytochrome b5 type B (Cyb5b) as an essential mediator likely acting as an EMF sensor. The EMF-inducible gene switch was activated by rhythmic oscillatory calcium dynamics rather than generic calcium influx, defining a precisely tuned and bio-orthogonal induction mechanism. Functionally, EMF activation of the Oct4-Sox2-Klf4 (OSK) cassette induced in vivo partial reprogramming in aged mice, conditional expression of human mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP) for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) modeling recapitulated pathological features, and EMF-mediated Tph2 expression restored serotonergic activity and ameliorated depressive-like behaviors in Tph2-mutant depression mice. Overall, a remotely controlled EMF-inducible gene switch represents a versatile and effective biomedical platform.
• Cyb5b mediates EMF-specific calcium oscillations for gene switch activation
• Ei gene switch enables in vivo rejuvenation by reversing aging phenotypes
• Ei system models Alzheimer’s disease and restores serotonergic function in vivo
Summary
Gaining precise control of gene expression is crucial in biomedical applications. However, spatiotemporal precision remains challenging. Here, we present a remotely controlled in vivo gene switch responsive to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that enables precise spatiotemporal activation of target genes. We uncovered the EMF-inducible gene switch activation mechanism via a CRISPR-Cas9 screen, identifying cytochrome b5 type B (Cyb5b) as an essential mediator likely acting as an EMF sensor. The EMF-inducible gene switch was activated by rhythmic oscillatory calcium dynamics rather than generic calcium influx, defining a precisely tuned and bio-orthogonal induction mechanism. Functionally, EMF activation of the Oct4-Sox2-Klf4 (OSK) cassette induced in vivo partial reprogramming in aged mice, conditional expression of human mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP) for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) modeling recapitulated pathological features, and EMF-mediated Tph2 expression restored serotonergic activity and ameliorated depressive-like behaviors in Tph2-mutant depression mice. Overall, a remotely controlled EMF-inducible gene switch represents a versatile and effective biomedical platform.
Excerpt
To
develop an EMF-responsive gene switch, we initially sought to find out
genes that could be efficiently stimulated by EMF in the brain. We
established an EMF system using a pair of Helmholtz coils (Data S1.1),
capable of delivering a magnetic flux density of 0.0–10.0 mT over a
0–200 Hz frequency range. We designed the EMF system to generate
unipolar pulsed fields where each 16.67 ms cycle (e.g., 60 Hz) consists
of a 5 ms active burst of 20 consecutive single pulses, followed by a
11.67 ms resting interval (Figure S1A). Characterized by a pulsed sine
square wave, the EMF uniformity was determined to be approximately 99%
within the central region between the coils, ensuring consistent
exposure (Data S1.1). We performed single-cell RNA sequencing
(scRNA-seq) to analyze transcriptional changes in the mouse brain after
exposure to EMF (2.0 mT and 60 Hz) for 48 h. We identified a diverse
range of cell types, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia,
and neuroblasts (Figures S1B and S1C). We found 15 upregulated genes
that were classified as being positively responsive to external stimuli
related to signaling following EMF exposure (Figure S1D). We found that
the proportion of Lgr4+ cells significantly increased across all
identified cell types, as well as relative to the total cell population,
in the EMF-exposed brain (Figures S1E and S1F).
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Resonant Convergence: An Integrative Model for Electromagnetic
Interactions in Biological Systems
Greco A. Resonant Convergence: An Integrative Model for Electromagnetic
Interactions in Biological Systems. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Dec
31;27(1):423. doi: 10.3390/ijms27010423.
Abstract
Over the past 50 years, scientific interest in electromagnetic
field-biology interactions has flourished. Important experimental
observations and mathematical hypotheses remain central to academic
debate. Adey and Blackman found that specific electromagnetic
frequencies affect calcium transport in cells. To explain this
phenomenon, Liboff introduced ion cyclotron resonance-like (ICR-like)
theory, proposing a specific mechanism for ion modulation. Preparata and
Del Giudice introduced quantum electrodynamics (QED), offering
controversial quantum-level explanations that complement classical
models. Lucia and NASA contributed further with thermomagnetic resonance
and experimental observations. Together, these hypotheses have
partially clarified how weak electromagnetic fields interact with cells
and suggest possible parallel endogenous mechanisms. The aim of this
narrative review is to provide a clear and logical framework for
understanding biological events, both those that arise naturally within
biology and those that can be initiated externally through the
application of electromagnetic fields. As electromagnetism constitutes
one of the four fundamental forces, this interaction warrants rigorous
scientific scrutiny.
Conclusions
The complexity
of the described system suggests that eventual complete quantitative
understanding might require the development of advanced mathematical
models. The proposed model is not the simple sum of individual
mechanisms, but represents the challenge of describing an integrated
system where each level potentiates and modulates the others. Such
integration might require mathematical models that combine the
deterministic nature of EMFs with the intrinsic variability of cellular
processes. To use a musical analogy: as in a symphony orchestra, each
instrument (mechanism) contributes to the overall melody (biological
effect), but it is the coordinated ensemble that produces the final
effect.
This holistic view explains parameter
sensitivity in biological responses: small variations in stimulation can
produce different effects or no effect at all. We are modulating a
complex system where minor changes shift cellular state balance.
Liboff’s culture studies [46,47,48,49,50]
first demonstrated this principle; decades of subsequent research have
confirmed these observations, though only partially reviewed here.
Despite
theoretical advances and encouraging preclinical data, clinical
translation remains challenging. Part of this difficulty relates to
reproducibility, driven by high sensitivity to environmental variables
such as fluctuations in the local geomagnetic field and artificial
electromagnetic interference [27].
The historical fragmentation between ICR, QED, and thermodynamic models
has also hindered the development of unified predictive frameworks, a
gap that the Resonant Convergence model aims to fill.
The
primary challenge is developing predictive algorithms: integrating
thermomagnetic resonance calculations with ICR frequencies for dominant
ions could enable patient-specific protocols—optimized frequency
sequences tailored to individual pathophysiology. In this framework,
regenerative medicine [53,56] and complementary treatments in oncology represent the most promising clinical applications for development.
In
conclusion, the convergence of multiple independent theoretical
frameworks supported by diverse experimental validations across scales
suggests that EMF interactions with biological systems represent a
fundamental aspect of cellular regulation. The Resonant Convergence
model provides a unified conceptual foundation; its ultimate validation
will depend on experimentally discriminating specific mechanistic
contributions to translate these theoretical insights into effective
clinical reality.
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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Latent class analysis of mobile phone usage patterns and association with sleep problems in children
Ajmal A, Tamura n, Bamai YA, Yamazaki K, Yoshikawa T, et al. Latent class analysis of mobile phone usage patterns and association with sleep problems in children: Findings from the Hokkaido Birth Cohort Study. Computers in Human Behavior Reports. Volume 22, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.chbr.2026.101077.
Abstract
This study determined distinct latent classes of mobile phone usage and examined the association of each class with sleep problems among 4869 children aged 7–17 years in the Hokkaido Birth Cohort Study (January 2020 to July 2021). Parent–child dyads reported mobile phone usage and sleep problems were evaluated using the brief version of the Japanese Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire. Five mobile phone use classes were identified: lowest use, low use, high on mobile phone calls and SMS, high on internet activities, and overall high use. The lowest use class was more common in elementary school students, while higher use classes predominated in older students. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that low use (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.14), high on mobile phone calls and SMS (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.32–1.53), and overall high use (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.20–1.36) were associated with sleep problems. In stratified analysis of elementary school students, low use (OR = 1.14, 95% CI:1.06–1.23), high on mobile phone calls and SMS (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.41–1.67), and overall high use (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.12–1.41) were associated with sleep problems. Conversely, among junior high and high school students, only overall high use (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.12–1.33) was associated with sleep problems. The findings show that elementary school students were more susceptible to sleep problems, which may be attributable to behavioral disruptions and physiological effects. However causal inference cannot be drawn due to cross-sectional nature of the study.
Abstract
This study determined distinct latent classes of mobile phone usage and examined the association of each class with sleep problems among 4869 children aged 7–17 years in the Hokkaido Birth Cohort Study (January 2020 to July 2021). Parent–child dyads reported mobile phone usage and sleep problems were evaluated using the brief version of the Japanese Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire. Five mobile phone use classes were identified: lowest use, low use, high on mobile phone calls and SMS, high on internet activities, and overall high use. The lowest use class was more common in elementary school students, while higher use classes predominated in older students. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that low use (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.14), high on mobile phone calls and SMS (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.32–1.53), and overall high use (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.20–1.36) were associated with sleep problems. In stratified analysis of elementary school students, low use (OR = 1.14, 95% CI:1.06–1.23), high on mobile phone calls and SMS (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.41–1.67), and overall high use (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.12–1.41) were associated with sleep problems. Conversely, among junior high and high school students, only overall high use (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.12–1.33) was associated with sleep problems. The findings show that elementary school students were more susceptible to sleep problems, which may be attributable to behavioral disruptions and physiological effects. However causal inference cannot be drawn due to cross-sectional nature of the study.
Highlights
• Latent class analysis identified five distinct patterns of mobile phone use.
• Sleep problems linked to low use, high mobile phone calls, SMS and overall high use.
• Junior high school and higher, only overall high use was linked to sleep problems.
• No association between high use for internet activities and sleep problems.
• Mobile phone's influence of behavioral factors rather than RF-EMF exposure.
• Latent class analysis identified five distinct patterns of mobile phone use.
• Sleep problems linked to low use, high mobile phone calls, SMS and overall high use.
• Junior high school and higher, only overall high use was linked to sleep problems.
• No association between high use for internet activities and sleep problems.
• Mobile phone's influence of behavioral factors rather than RF-EMF exposure.
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Protective Effects
of Ginseng on the Blood–Brain Barrier in Rats Exposed to 2600 MHz
Radiofrequency Radiation
Postacı
Karaman İ, Coşkun Ö, Şenol N, Şahin U, Çömlekçi S. Protective Effects
of Ginseng on the Blood–Brain Barrier in Rats Exposed to 2600 MHz
Radiofrequency Radiation. Applied Sciences. 2026; 16(8):4012. doi: 10.3390/app16084012.
Abstract
Radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exposure is higher in the structures
surrounding the ears and head. Moreover, the brain is the organ most
vulnerable to microwave radiation, exhibiting earlier and more severe
mitochondrial damage compared to other tissues. The present study
investigated the impact of 2600 MHz RFR on the blood–brain barrier (BBB)
through immunohistochemical, genetic, and biochemical analyses and
explored the potential protective role of ginseng. The animals in the
study were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 8 per group): control, sham, ginseng, 2600 MHz RFR, and 2600 MHz RFR + ginseng. The RFR groups were exposed to RFR for 1 h day−1
for 30 days. Ginseng was applied every day (150 mg/kg/day) by gavage
for 30 days. Histopathological examination of the 2600 MHz RFR group
revealed degenerative changes, vacuolization, vascular dilatation, and
mild edema, particularly in cortical neurons. These alterations appeared
reduced in the sham and 2600 MHz RFR + ginseng groups. The
immunohistochemical findings indicated moderate damage in the RFR group,
whereas a statistically significant decrease was observed in the
ginseng-treated groups (p < 0.05).
Overall, the findings suggest that 2600 MHz RFR may be associated with
increased apoptotic activity and ginseng may exert a protective effect.
Excerpts
The carousel exposure system consisted of an RF generator with a center
frequency of 2600 MHz (tuning range: 2550–2650 MHz; Set Elektronik
A.Ş., Sakarya, Türkiye) that was connected to a monopole antenna with a
characteristic impedance of 50 Ω. Each animal was individually
restrained in cylindrical plastic tubes (7 cm diameter, 22 cm length)
and placed at equal distances from the antenna during exposure. The RF
generator output was carefully tuned in a stepwise manner to obtain an
electric field strength of 10 V/m at the brain region, with measurements
performed using an electromagnetic field meter produced by EXTECH
Instruments Corporation (Nashua, NH, USA) [15].
At this stage, energy absorption within the brain tissue was quantified
in terms of specific absorption rate (SAR). A visual overview of the
study configuration is presented in Figure 2.... the average SAR value generated in the tissue was automatically
calculated in MATLAB R2021b (MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA) and was found
to be 61.76 mW/kg....
Conclusions
According to
previous studies, increased BAX protein levels are generally associated
with enhanced apoptotic activity. In this study, the immunohistochemical
findings demonstrated increased apoptosis in the RFR groups. Although
some variation in COX-2 expression was observed, these differences were not statistically significant. Therefore, any relationship between COX-2
expression and apoptosis should be interpreted with caution and cannot
be considered a definitive mechanistic link. The mechanisms underlying
the protective effects of ginseng remain unclear. Although changes in COX-2
expression were observed, these findings do not support a direct
mechanistic role due to the lack of statistical significance. Therefore,
factors other than COX-2 may contribute to the observed protective effects.
Since
RFR effects were observed histologically, genetic and biochemical
studies were conducted to investigate these processes further. The
effects of RFR on brain tissue were clearly demonstrated both
histologically and immunohistochemically.
The
potential protective role of ginseng against RFR-induced damage was also
evaluated; however, the precise mechanisms underlying these effects
remain unclear and require further investigation. Although ginseng is
known to possess antioxidant properties, oxidative stress markers were
not evaluated in the present study. In particular, parameters such as
reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were not measured. Therefore, the
involvement of oxidative processes in RFR-induced effects and the
protective role of ginseng remains unclear and requires further
investigation in future studies.
BAX is a
widely used marker of apoptosis and was included in this study to
provide biochemical support for the histological findings. The results
demonstrated increased apoptotic activity in the RFR groups, consistent
with the immunohistochemical observations. Although there were some
discrepancies between the molecular and histological findings, these
differences highlight the complexity of apoptotic processes and suggest
that multiple factors may be involved.
In this study, variations in COX-2
expression were observed; however, these differences were not
statistically significant. Therefore, its potential relationship with
apoptosis should be interpreted with caution. Overall, these findings
emphasize the importance of integrating histological,
immunohistochemical, and molecular analyses to better understand the
cellular responses to RFR exposure.
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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Testicular Heat-Shock Protein Expression in Rats Following 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz RF-EMF Exposure
My note: The signal generators employed in this study did not produce 5G signals. The maximum SAR values (full body exposure) were 0.22 W/kg.
Syed Taha SMA, Jaffar FHF, Hairulazam A, Vijay S, Jamaludin N, Zulkefli AF, Mat Ros MF, Osman K, Zakaria Z, Mohd Bahar MAA, et al. Testicular Heat-Shock Protein Expression in Rats Following 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz RF-EMF Exposure. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2026; 27(8):3452. doi: 10.3390/ijms27083452.
Abstract
The expansion of fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks has increased
environmental exposure to mid-band and millimeter-wave radiofrequency
electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), but their molecular effects on male
reproductive tissues remain insufficiently understood. This study
evaluated whether repeated exposure to 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz RF-EMF alters
testicular stress-associated molecular responses by integrating
electromagnetic dosimetry with an in vivo rat model. Whole-body specific
absorption rate (SAR) and 10 g peak SAR were estimated using a rat
voxel model and scaled to the 20 cm antenna-to-cage geometry used during
exposure. Thirty-six adult male Sprague Dawley rats were allocated to
sham, 3.5 GHz, or 24 GHz groups and exposed for 1 h/day or 7 h/day over
60 days. Testes were examined histologically and assessed for HSP27,
HSP70, and HSP90 protein expression. SAR values were low overall,
although absorption was higher at 3.5 GHz than at 24 GHz. Histological
evaluation showed preserved seminiferous tubule architecture without
consistent structural injury. In contrast, molecular analysis
demonstrated frequency- and duration-dependent modulation of heat shock
proteins, including early HSP70 downregulation at both frequencies,
followed by HSP90 upregulation at 3.5 GHz and HSP27 upregulation at 24
GHz. These findings indicate that low-level 5G-relevant RF-EMF exposure
can modify molecular stress responses in testicular tissue even in the
absence of overt histological damage.
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Cellular redox disruption and apoptosis: Differential effects of RFR frequencies on Leydig cells
Jangid P, Rai U, Sevak JK, Singh S, Rajeev Singh R. Cellular redox disruption and apoptosis: Differential effects of RFR frequencies on Leydig cells. Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology. Volume 511, 2026, doi: 10.1016/j.taap.2026.117807.
Abstract
Radiofrequency radiation (RFR), widely emitted from modern wireless devices, has raised questions regarding its possible impact on male reproductive health. In this comparative study, we examined the redox and apoptotic responses of TM3 Leydig cells following exposure to mobile phone radiation, as well as 2450 MHz, and 1800 MHz frequencies for 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 & 120 min, and redox imbalance was assessed by quantifying nitric oxide (NO) and intracellular superoxide (SO) levels. Apoptotic cell percentages were evaluated by dual labeling with Annexin V-FITC/PI using flow cytometry. Mobile phone and 2450 MHz exposures induced biphasic alterations in NO levels, while 1800 MHz exposure resulted in a sustained reduction in NO. SO levels increased progressively in a time- and frequency-specific manner. Apoptotic analysis revealed early apoptotic activation in mobile and 2450 MHz groups, whereas 1800 MHz exposure led to delayed but sustained late-stage apoptosis. These findings demonstrate that RFR triggers redox imbalance and apoptosis in TM3 cells, with effects varying by frequency and exposure duration. This comparative analysis underscores the biological risks of chronic low-intensity RFR exposure and highlights the growing concerns about RFR-associated testicular stress and its implications for male reproductive toxicity.
Abstract
Radiofrequency radiation (RFR), widely emitted from modern wireless devices, has raised questions regarding its possible impact on male reproductive health. In this comparative study, we examined the redox and apoptotic responses of TM3 Leydig cells following exposure to mobile phone radiation, as well as 2450 MHz, and 1800 MHz frequencies for 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 & 120 min, and redox imbalance was assessed by quantifying nitric oxide (NO) and intracellular superoxide (SO) levels. Apoptotic cell percentages were evaluated by dual labeling with Annexin V-FITC/PI using flow cytometry. Mobile phone and 2450 MHz exposures induced biphasic alterations in NO levels, while 1800 MHz exposure resulted in a sustained reduction in NO. SO levels increased progressively in a time- and frequency-specific manner. Apoptotic analysis revealed early apoptotic activation in mobile and 2450 MHz groups, whereas 1800 MHz exposure led to delayed but sustained late-stage apoptosis. These findings demonstrate that RFR triggers redox imbalance and apoptosis in TM3 cells, with effects varying by frequency and exposure duration. This comparative analysis underscores the biological risks of chronic low-intensity RFR exposure and highlights the growing concerns about RFR-associated testicular stress and its implications for male reproductive toxicity.
Highlights
• TM3 cells exposed to RFR showed frequency-specific redox imbalance.
• Mobile and 2450 MHz exposures induced biphasic nitric oxide alterations.
• Superoxide levels increased progressively with RFR exposure.
• Annexin V-FITC/PI staining revealed frequency-dependent apoptotic changes.
• Short term RFR exposure may impair testicular function and redox homeostasis.
• TM3 cells exposed to RFR showed frequency-specific redox imbalance.
• Mobile and 2450 MHz exposures induced biphasic nitric oxide alterations.
• Superoxide levels increased progressively with RFR exposure.
• Annexin V-FITC/PI staining revealed frequency-dependent apoptotic changes.
• Short term RFR exposure may impair testicular function and redox homeostasis.
2.4.1. Mobile phone exposure
Radiofrequency radiation and sham exposures were conducted in line with the approach detailed by Jangid et al. (2024) & Yadav and Singh (2023). In short, a 4G smartphone (Xiaomi Note 7), with a power density of 0.224 W/m2,
was employed to deliver exposure at different time intervals, inside a
CO₂ incubator (5% CO₂) maintained at 37 °C. The cell culture suspension
(1 × 106 cells/mL) was placed in sterile 15 mL tubes
immediately prior to exposure. According to the manufacturer, the
specific absorption rate (SAR) of the phone is 0.838 W/kg for the body
and 0.962 W/kg for the head (measured at a 15 mm distance). Calibration
of the device was verified using the Narda 520 system by assessing its
physical parameters. Over the course of exposure, no variation in the
temperature was detected. Background conditions remained the same in
both sham and RFR exposure groups.
2.4.2. 2450 MHz & 1800 MHz exposure
The
experimental setup for 2450 MHz and 1800 MHz exposure included a signal
generator, an incubator (irradiation chamber), a horn antenna, and a
handheld power meter. A Keysight signal generator (USA) was used to
generate electromagnetic waves at 2450 MHz and 1800 MHz, which were
transmitted through a horn antenna. Exponential growing TM3 cells were
selected for treatment. The temperature variation between the exposed
and control groups was less than 0.1 °C and the incubator maintained
stable conditions of 37 °C and 5% CO₂ throughout the procedure. Cell
suspensions at a concentration of 1 × 106 cells/mL were
seeded in 35 mm Petri dishes immediately prior to exposure, and
positioned 2 cm away from the horn antenna during the procedure.
Conclusion
This
study demonstrates that even under non-thermal conditions, exposure to
RFR from commonly encountered sources, can significantly disrupt redox
homeostasis and trigger apoptosis in Leydig cells in a frequency- and
time-specific manner. Mobile phone and 2450 MHz exposures elicited
biphasic NO responses and robust SO generation, alongside early-stage
apoptotic activation. In contrast, 1800 MHz exposure induced a more
sustained suppression of NO and predominantly late-stage apoptosis,
indicating distinct mechanistic pathways across frequencies. These
findings suggest that even low-intensity RFR exposures, traditionally
considered biologically inert, may exert significant redox imbalance and
apoptotic responses in Leydig cells, potentially impairing
steroidogenic function.
Given
the essential role of Leydig cells in testosterone biosynthesis and
reproductive health, our results raise important concerns regarding
chronic RFR exposure in the male population, particularly in the context
of increasing wireless device usage. The observed redox imbalance and
apoptosis may contribute to broader testicular dysfunction and,
ultimately, male infertility. These insights underscore the need for
more comprehensive regulatory frameworks that consider not only thermal
but also non-thermal biological effects of RFR. Future studies should
expand on these findings by exploring molecular signaling pathways,
mitochondrial dynamics, and in vivo reproductive outcomes to better
inform public health policies and exposure guidelines.
--
Radiofrequency radiation-induced changes in Leydig cell function
Jangid, P., Rai, U., Sevak, J.K. et al. Radiofrequency radiation-induced changes in Leydig cell function.
Sci Rep (2026). doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-39244-6.
Abstract
Radiofrequency radiation, emitted from commonly used wireless
communication devices, has been implicated in disrupting cellular
homeostasis; however, its effects on testicular somatic cells such as
Leydig cells remain poorly understood. To address this, the present
study investigated the frequency- and time-specific effects of RFR on
cellular morphology, proliferation, and cell cycle dynamics in TM3
Leydig cells. Cells were exposed to mobile phone radiation and
radiofrequency signals at 1800 MHz and 2450 MHz for 15–120 min under
non-thermal conditions. Following exposure, morphological alterations
were examined using Giemsa staining, while proliferation and cell cycle
progression were evaluated by BrdU-ELISA and PI-based flow cytometry.
BrdU assays showed a progressive reduction in DNA synthesis across
conditions, indicating suppressed proliferative activity. Consistently,
cell cycle analysis revealed accumulation of cells in G1 phase with a
corresponding decline in S-phase population at longer durations,
suggesting checkpoint activation. These changes were supported by
morphological alterations such as cell rounding, loss of adherence, and
membrane blebbing, features associated with stress-induced
antiproliferative responses. Overall, these findings indicate that RFR
disrupts cellular morphology, DNA synthesis, and cell cycle progression
in a frequency- and time-dependent manner, highlighting Leydig cell
vulnerability to prolonged exposure and potential implications for male
reproductive health.
Open access: https://www.nature.
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Thermal
responses of rats exposed to continuous or intermittent 915 MHz mobile
phone RF signals
Kim HS, Kim Y, Jeon SB, Moon JI, Choi HD, Lee AK, Ahn YH. Thermal
responses of rats exposed to continuous or intermittent 915 MHz mobile
phone RF signals. J Therm Biol. 2026 Apr 20;139:104464. doi:
10.1016/j.jtherbio.2026.
Abstract
The thermal effects of a mobile phone emitting radiofrequency
electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) are well known, but the in vivo impact
of different exposure patterns has not been directly demonstrated. This
study aimed to compare the in vivo effects of continuous and
intermittent exposure to 915 MHz LTE-modulated mobile phone signals
under conditions that simulate typical mobile phone use. Male
Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed either continuously at whole-body
averaged specific absorption rates (SAR) of 0, 4, 6, or 8 W/kg, or
intermittently at 0 or 8 W/kg using 10-min on/off cycles. Rectal and
interscapular temperatures were recorded during 9 h of continuous
exposure or 10 h of intermittent exposure. Comparisons were made under
two matched conditions: continuous exposure at 8 W/kg for 5 h versus
intermittent exposure at 8 W/kg for 10 h (equal RF-on time), and
continuous 4 W/kg versus intermittent 8 W/kg (50% duty cycle; equal
time-averaged SAR). Under equal cumulative RF-on time, intermittent 8
W/kg exposure caused only a brief temperature increase, whereas
continuous 8 W/kg exposure resulted in a gradual and sustained rise.
Under equal time-averaged SAR, continuous 4 W/kg showed no temperature
change, whereas intermittent 8 W/kg caused a transient rise. No
significant effects were observed at 6 W/kg continuous exposure, and
sham groups remained stable. These findings provide direct, comparative
in vivo evidence that both SAR level and exposure pattern significantly
influence thermal outcomes during exposure to mobile phone RF signals.
Highlights
• Continuous RF exposure at 8 W/kg induced a sustained ∼1 °C core temperature rise.
• Intermittent RF exposure (10-min on/off) at 8 W/kg caused a transient rise.
• Distinct thermal responses occurred despite matched RF-on time or averaged SAR.
• RF-induced thermal effects depended on both SAR magnitude and exposure pattern.
• RF exposure pattern and recovery intervals are key considerations for RF safety
Excerpts
An RF reverberation chamber system for small animals was used as described previously (Kim et al., 2013a; Kim et al., 2013b; Kim et al., 2020). Two chambers, one for sham exposure and one for RF exposure, were maintained under controlled conditions, including ventilation, temperature (22 ± 2 °C), humidity, and a 12-h light/dark cycle. Accordingly, RF-exposed and sham-exposed animals were studied simultaneously under identical environmental conditions. Animals had ad libitum access to gamma-irradiated RodFeed (Dea-Han Biolink) and filtered tap water. The exterior dimensions (L × W × H) of the chamber are 2.3 × 2.3 × 1.5 m. An LTE source with a frequency of 915 MHz was generated using a signal generator (E4438C; Keysight Technologies, Santa Rosa, CA, USA). The input signal was amplified using a high-power amplifier (HPA-272+; Mini-Circuits, Brooklyn, NY, USA), and the output power level (maximum: 100 W) was regulated using a system controller (KSS-SC 349; Korea Shield System Co., Cheongju, Korea). A customized software program (Korea Shield System Co.) controlled the RF signal exposure level and duration. The input power was monitored in real-time using a power sensor (E9301A, Keysight) and a power meter (E4478B, Keysight) through a 20-dB directional coupler (ZGDC20-372HP+, Mini-Circuits). The field uniformity of the reverberation chamber was measured at 24 points within the working volume using an isotropic field probe (HI-6005; ETS-Lindgren), ensuring the field distribution remained within ±2 dB over a 1-min average....
No biologically relevant changes occurred at 4 or 6 W/kg, which are
consistent with a practical threshold near 8 W/kg in healthy young male
rats in this setting. These findings align with the U.S. NTP study (Wyde et al., 2018),
in which intermittent exposure at 8 W/kg induced significant
temperature increases in young males, and even greater rises (>1 °C)
in pregnant and aged rats, while 4 or 6 W/kg produced little or no
change in young males.
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Effects of prolonged exposure to
2.45 GHz electromagnetic fields on mouse health over a 5-month period
Lv Z, Wu Y, Zhao K, Li J, Gao H, Zhao X, Li S, Xu A, Li J, Cai Y, Xiang
S, Chen H, Yin R, Yu M, Yang X, Li C. Effects of prolonged exposure to
2.45 GHz electromagnetic fields on mouse health over a 5-month period.
Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2026 Apr 7;315:120106. doi:
10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.120106.
Abstract
With the ubiquitous and prolonged nature of human exposure to
S-band electromagnetic fields (EMF, 2.45 GHz), concerns regarding its
potential health impacts are growing. However, existing preclinical
evidence is inconsistent, and a comprehensive assessment of its effects
across multiple physiological systems is lacking. This study aimed to
perform an integrated evaluation of the biological consequences of
prolonged 2.45 GHz EMF exposure in mice, focusing on the reproductive,
immune, metabolic, and hematopoietic systems. We established a murine
model of prolonged EMF exposure, wherein mice were subjected to 2.45 GHz
radiation (whole-body average specific absorption rate, SAR 15 W/kg)
for 5 months. A combination of physiological monitoring, functional
sperm analysis, comprehensive flow cytometry, hematopoietic stem cell
functional assays, and metabolic challenge tests insulin tolerance test
(ITT) and pyruvate tolerance test (PTT) was employed to assess systemic
impacts. Our findings revealed a system-specific pattern of responses.
Notably, prolonged EMF exposure did not induce measurable adverse
effects on core physiological parameters, sperm functional integrity
(kinematics and morphology), immune cell populations and distribution,
or hematopoietic competence. In stark contrast, it significantly
disrupted systemic glucose homeostasis, leading to elevated fasting
blood glucose and impaired insulin sensitivity. This study demonstrates
that biological effects of prolonged 2.45 GHz EMF exposure are not
monolithic but exhibit distinct organ susceptibility. We identified a
selective vulnerability in metabolic regulation, while reproductive,
immune, and hematopoietic systems remained resilient under our specific
exposure conditions. These findings challenge the universality of
generalized toxicity claims, underscore the critical role of exposure
parameters, and highlight metabolic dysfunction as a potential risk for
prolonged EMF exposure, providing crucial insights for future risk
assessment.
Highlights
• Reveals system-specific biological effects of prolonged 2.45 GHz EMF.
• Shows no adverse effects on reproduction, immunity, or hematopoiesis and identifies selective vulnerability in glucose homeostasis regulation.
• Demonstrates elevated blood glucose and insulin resistance.
Excerpts
Regarding non-thermal
mechanisms, several biophysical pathways may contribute to the observed
metabolic effects independent of bulk tissue heating. RF-EMF can induce non-thermal bioeffects through membrane depolarization, altered ion channel kinetics, and modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels (Pall, 2013). The microthermal hypothesis suggests that while macroscopic temperature remains stable, nanoscale thermal fluctuations at membrane interfaces or within mitochondria could affect enzyme kinetics and signaling cascades (Riu et al., 1997). Additionally, electromagnetic field interactions with cellular structures—particularly the plasma membrane’s dielectric properties—can trigger conformational changes in membrane proteins, alter lipid raft dynamics, and generate reactive oxygen species through non-thermal activation of NADPH oxidase or disruption of mitochondrial electron transport (Yakymenko et al., 2016, Sies, 2015). These mechanisms may collectively contribute to the selective metabolic dysregulation observed, though their relative contributions require further investigation.
In
conclusion, this study offers crucial insights into the system-specific
biological effects of prolonged 2.45 GHz EMF exposure. Our results
challenge the broad assertion of reproductive toxicity under certain
exposure regimens, reveal a marked vulnerability in metabolic
homeostasis likely mediated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial
impairment, and demonstrate preserved immune and hematopoietic function.
The clear metabolic dysfunction observed in the absence of overt
pathology in other organ systems indicates that biological responses are
not uniform and may emerge initially at molecular and biochemical
levels prior to advancing to structural or functional deficits.
Organ-specific molecular responses, suggested by comparative analysis of
bone marrow scRNA-seq and published hepatic transcriptomic data, merit
further exploration. These findings substantially enhance the
mechanistic understanding of prolonged 2.45 GHz EMF exposure bioeffects
and support refined risk assessment modeling. Future work should
emphasize longitudinal tracking of metabolic dysregulation, examination
of cross-system interactions and analysis of individual or genetic
susceptibility. Such evidence is vital to inform science-driven public
health guidelines and safety standards for prolonged environmental EMF
exposure.
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The effects of acute and chronic exposure of 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on rat mismatch negativity
Er H, Hidisoglu E, Kantar D, Acun AD, Akkoyunlu G, Ozen S, Yargicoglu P. The effects of acute and chronic exposure of 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on rat mismatch negativity, Journal of Radiation Research and Applied Sciences. 19(1), 2026. doi:10.1016/j.jrras.2025.
Abstract
Cell phones operate by emitting radiofrequency radiation (RFR), a form of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Consequently, ongoing researches target to determine whether it poses potential risks to human health. One of these risks is related with brain and auditory system. This study aims to examine the impact of acute and chronic exposure to 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on mismatch negativity (MMN) in rats. In this study, we established 1-week (RFR1) and 10-week (RFR10) RFR groups from rats, which were subjected to 2100 MHz RFR exposure. Cage control groups (CC1, CC10) and sham groups (S1, S10) that were not subjected to RFR for equivalent durations were also established. Following auditory event-related potential (AERP) recordings, MMN waves were computed and analyzed. Additionally, brain samples were collected and biochemical and histological analyses were performed. The RFR1 group exhibited a reduction in AMPAR GluR2 subunit protein levels relative to the CC1 and S1 groups, although GFAP protein levels increased. Conversely, the opposite was observed in the chronic groups. Edema of astrocytic endfeet, mitochondrial damage, and lysosomal vesicles were identified in the RFR1 group. The MMN amplitude was found to be reduced in the RFR1 group relative to the CC1 group. The RFR1 group exhibited a reduction in delta and theta power relative to the S1/CC1 groups. Alpha coherence diminished in the RFR1 group relative to the S1 group, however it augmented in the RFR10 group compared to the S10 group. The assessment of event-related potentials indicated that 2100 MHz RFR led to a decrease in MMN amplitude, power spectrum, and coherence values in the RFR1 group relative to the S1 and CC1 groups, but an increase was observed in the RFR10 group compared to the S10 group. Consequently, in the acute period, 2100 MHz RFR may have adverse effects on auditory sensory memory.
Abstract
Cell phones operate by emitting radiofrequency radiation (RFR), a form of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Consequently, ongoing researches target to determine whether it poses potential risks to human health. One of these risks is related with brain and auditory system. This study aims to examine the impact of acute and chronic exposure to 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on mismatch negativity (MMN) in rats. In this study, we established 1-week (RFR1) and 10-week (RFR10) RFR groups from rats, which were subjected to 2100 MHz RFR exposure. Cage control groups (CC1, CC10) and sham groups (S1, S10) that were not subjected to RFR for equivalent durations were also established. Following auditory event-related potential (AERP) recordings, MMN waves were computed and analyzed. Additionally, brain samples were collected and biochemical and histological analyses were performed. The RFR1 group exhibited a reduction in AMPAR GluR2 subunit protein levels relative to the CC1 and S1 groups, although GFAP protein levels increased. Conversely, the opposite was observed in the chronic groups. Edema of astrocytic endfeet, mitochondrial damage, and lysosomal vesicles were identified in the RFR1 group. The MMN amplitude was found to be reduced in the RFR1 group relative to the CC1 group. The RFR1 group exhibited a reduction in delta and theta power relative to the S1/CC1 groups. Alpha coherence diminished in the RFR1 group relative to the S1 group, however it augmented in the RFR10 group compared to the S10 group. The assessment of event-related potentials indicated that 2100 MHz RFR led to a decrease in MMN amplitude, power spectrum, and coherence values in the RFR1 group relative to the S1 and CC1 groups, but an increase was observed in the RFR10 group compared to the S10 group. Consequently, in the acute period, 2100 MHz RFR may have adverse effects on auditory sensory memory.
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Evaluation of Electromagnetic Field Exposure Level from Mobile Phones
and Its Health Risks
Akpolile FA, Agbajor GK, Omoriwhovo OJ, Adonuja JA, Ukerun-Akpesiri AA (2026). Evaluation of Electromagnetic Field Exposure Level from Mobile Phones and Its Health Risks. 11(3). doi: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.11030054.
AbstractThis study investigated the electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) levels associated with different mobile phone models operating at frequencies of 900 MHz and 2100 MHz. The objective was to assess the electric field strength, magnetic field strength, and power density emitted by these devices, and to determine the potential impact of mobile phone radiation on human health. Using an EMF Multi-Function Meter (GQ EMF-390V2 Electronics), measurements of the electric field (E), magnetic field (H), and power density (S) were obtained. The specific absorption rate (SAR) and health risk index (HRI) were computationally analyzed from dielectric and density data for seven (7) head tissues and the measured electric field over a range of popular mobile phone models and compared their EMF exposure levels against the safety limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). The study found that while most mobile phones complied with ICNIRP safety standards, significant differences in radiation emission were observed between models, with certain devices exceeding recommended SAR thresholds. The findings suggested that radiation exposure varies across phone designs and operating frequencies, with potential implications for long-term health, especially in sensitive tissue areas like the brain and cerebrospinal fluid. This study indicated the importance of adhering to EMF safety guidelines and encourages consumers to be aware of SAR values when selecting mobile devices, particularly those frequently used close to the head.
This study has been able to assess the variability in electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure levels and Specific Absorption Rates (SAR) for different mobile phone models at operational frequencies of 900 MHz and 2100 MHz. The measured electric field strength (E-field), magnetic field strength (H-field), and power density reveal significant differences across phone models, with some exceeding the ICNIRP recommended safety limits. Additionally, SAR values for various tissues (cerebrospinal fluid, dura, brain, muscle, skin, skull, and fat) indicate varying levels of radiation absorption, depending on the phone model and operational frequency. The results of this study indicated the need for strict regulatory measures to ensure mobile phones comply with international safety standards to minimize health risks. Consumers should be aware of SAR values when selecting mobile devices, particularly those frequently used close to the head. They are also advised to use hand-free devices and also employ proper phone casing accessories which have the potential of absorbing part of the radiation energy thereby reducing the exposure to radiation.
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Spatiotemporal trends of ambient radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) during the 5G rollout in Switzerland
Loizeau, N., Haas, D., Zahner, M. et al. Spatiotemporal trends of ambient radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) during the 5G rollout in Switzerland.
J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/
Background The fifth generation of mobile phone technology (5G) is being extensively deployed worldwide, potentially reshaping the population’s exposure to ambient radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF).
Objective This study aims to characterise the changes in ambient exposure to RF-EMF during the rollout of 5G in Switzerland.
Methods First, the ambient RF-EMF levels were characterised between July 2021 and May 2024 in 300 outdoor areas, 244 public spaces, and on 332 public transport rides. Two ExpoM-RF4 were used to measure the electric field strengths from 80 MHz to 6 GHz and recorded the root-mean-square (RMS) signals and the instantaneous highest signals (Peak). Second, we conducted a temporal comparison with the RF-EMF median levels measured at baseline (2021/22) and follow-up (2023/24) in the same microenvironments and at the same time (±one hour, ±one week). Thirdly, we compared the ambient RF-EMF exposure in a subset of 49 outdoor areas that were measured in 2014, 2021, and 2023.
Results Total RF-EMF median levels (RMS signals) remained constant or slightly increased between 2021/22 and 2023/24 in 150 outdoor areas (0.16 V/m to 0.17 V/m), 91 public spaces (0.24 V/m to 0.25 V/m), and in 101 public transport rides (0.20 V/m to 0.24 V/m). Minor but significant increases in median Time Division Duplexing (TDD) exposure levels, related to 5G, were observed in all areas from virtually 0 V/m to 0.04 V/m during that period. Peak signals followed a comparable trend.
Significance Between 2014 and 2023, the overall ambient RF-EMF levels from mobile phone communication technology have not increased following the introduction of 5G in Switzerland. The extensive RF-EMF exposure measurements conducted by the same person during the rollout of 5G makes our study one of the most comprehensive time trend exposure analyses to date, which is highly valuable for future epidemiological research and public communication.
Objective This study aims to characterise the changes in ambient exposure to RF-EMF during the rollout of 5G in Switzerland.
Methods First, the ambient RF-EMF levels were characterised between July 2021 and May 2024 in 300 outdoor areas, 244 public spaces, and on 332 public transport rides. Two ExpoM-RF4 were used to measure the electric field strengths from 80 MHz to 6 GHz and recorded the root-mean-square (RMS) signals and the instantaneous highest signals (Peak). Second, we conducted a temporal comparison with the RF-EMF median levels measured at baseline (2021/22) and follow-up (2023/24) in the same microenvironments and at the same time (±one hour, ±one week). Thirdly, we compared the ambient RF-EMF exposure in a subset of 49 outdoor areas that were measured in 2014, 2021, and 2023.
Results Total RF-EMF median levels (RMS signals) remained constant or slightly increased between 2021/22 and 2023/24 in 150 outdoor areas (0.16 V/m to 0.17 V/m), 91 public spaces (0.24 V/m to 0.25 V/m), and in 101 public transport rides (0.20 V/m to 0.24 V/m). Minor but significant increases in median Time Division Duplexing (TDD) exposure levels, related to 5G, were observed in all areas from virtually 0 V/m to 0.04 V/m during that period. Peak signals followed a comparable trend.
Significance Between 2014 and 2023, the overall ambient RF-EMF levels from mobile phone communication technology have not increased following the introduction of 5G in Switzerland. The extensive RF-EMF exposure measurements conducted by the same person during the rollout of 5G makes our study one of the most comprehensive time trend exposure analyses to date, which is highly valuable for future epidemiological research and public communication.
Impact
- The presented RF-EMF measurements conducted in numerous environments during the rollout of 5G provide a baseline to which the population is unavoidably exposed to RF-EMF.
- Despite the substantial growth in mobile data traffic, the deployment of 5G has not drastically changed the exposure to ambient RF-EMF from mobile phone communication technology between 2021/22 and 2023/24.
Open access: https://www.nature.
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The further away the better? Factors influencing
the public's location preferences for mobile phone base stations. A
10-country study
Link
SC, Martin L, Grellier J, Böcker ME, Abacioglu F, Schulz C, Vaupotič N,
White MP, Boehmert C. The further away the better? Factors influencing
the public's location preferences for mobile phone base stations. A
10-country study. Journal of Environmental Psychology, Volume 112, 2026.
doi: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2026.103070.
Abstract
New
mobile phone base stations are frequently opposed by the public, even
though mobile phones are used by most of the population. While such
reaction has often been described as NIMBYism (‘not in my back yard’),
this label offers little insight into the psychological mechanisms
underlying such opposition. The present mixed-methods research moves
beyond a simple NIMBY interpretation through an in-depth investigation
of public location preferences for 4G-plus 5G-capable base stations.
Study 1 included six focus groups conducted in December 2022, and Study 2
was a ten-country survey (n = 10,358) conducted between
September-December 2023. In both studies, participants were asked to
select their preferred base station site from six hypothetical locations
and indicate the reasons underlying their choice. Overall, many
participants followed one of two siting approaches: approach A
preferring locations ‘as far away as possible’, and approach B
preferring the ‘least visually appealing’ location. While in Study 1
participants tended to follow approach B (16 out of 35), in Study 2
approach A was followed most frequently (53.6%). Among the reasons
surveyed, distance had the greatest influence on location preferences,
followed by reception, exposure to EMFs, and visual appearance. Distance
and EMF were strongly correlated (r = .531), which is why we assume
that distance was a proxy for reduced exposure. However, greater
distance can in fact increase overall exposure due to the increased
power required for higher handset transmission. Age, gender, risk
perception, exposure perception, use of 5G, acceptance and the expected
impact of 5G were also associated with the choice of location. We found
that widespread public communication efforts are needed to explain how
5G technology works, and that other issues such as visual amenity also
need to be sensitively managed. Our results inform the broader discourse
on base station siting: communication between stakeholders needs to be
improved, fostering mutual understanding of preferences, and guiding
decision-making for both telecommunication companies and the public.
Highlights
• Investigation into people's location preferences for 4G-plus 5G-capable base stations.
• Mixed methods study, comprising focus groups and an international survey (n > 10,000).
• Preference for farther and visually unappealing locations found.
• Location preferences mainly influenced by considerations about distance.
Excerpts
Potential health risks of RF-EMF emitted by mobile communications technologies have been assessed by international institutions like the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In 2013, IARC classified RF-EMF from mobile phones as possibly carcinogenic (IARC, 2013). According to ICNIRP and WHO, the weight of evidence indicates no adverse health effects below the existing threshold values (ICNIRP, 2009; WHO, 2020). The only clear biological effect that has been identified is that of tissue heating.
More recently, the WHO commissioned a series of ten systematic reviews based on a survey with 164 leading experts in the field of RF-EMF (Verbeek et al., 2021), focusing on six possible health outcomes. These reviews, along with a contextual summary (Verbeek et al., 2025), reported: moderate to high certainty evidence for no or only minor effects of RF-EMF on cancer (in humans), cognition, and symptoms, while there was high certainty evidence from animal studies for a significant impairment of male fertility. For other endpoints, such as oxidative stress, thyroid cancer, or fertility in humans, the evidence is currently very limited or contradictory (Verbeek et al., 2025). To date, neither ICNIRP nor IARC have updated their risk assessment based on these reviews.
Conclusions
The
current paper provides insights into where the public would place base
stations if given the choice, and why certain location preferences
emerge. Two high frequency siting approaches were identified: approach A
‘as far away as possible’ and approach B ‘at the visually most
unappealing location’. While approach B was preferred in focus group
Study 1, approach A was followed by the majority of respondents in the
international survey, (Study 2) indicating a preference for more distant
base station locations. We found that, depending on the approach, the
influence of the recorded siting factors varied. Approach A was
associated with a greater influence of distance and EMFs, whereas visual
appearance played a more important role for those following approach B.
While it has not yet been investigated which siting factors influence
the choice of location for base stations, studies on 2G already
suggested that distant locations are favored (Cousin & Siegrist,
2010a, 2010b). A similar pattern was observed for 4G/5G, with our
qualitative and quantitative studies indicating that, in addition to
distant locations, visually unappealing sites are preferred over more
central locations in a town, for example. Since the most distant
location is usually not the technically most feasible solution, good
science and risk communication could help to improve the public's
understanding of how mobile communications work. This, in turn, could
help overcome misconceptions and potentially reduce controversies about
base station siting, alongside other factors not explored here such as
procedural justice concerns.
--
No thermal skin effects at environmental 26 GHz field
strengths relevant to 5G deployment
Michelant L, Delanaud S, Hugueville L, Leveque P, Bach V, Tourneux P,
Selmaoui B. No thermal skin effects at environmental 26 GHz field
strengths relevant to 5G deployment. Sci Rep. 2026 Apr 27. doi:
10.1038/s41598-026-49616-7.
Abstract
The deployment of 5G millimeter wave technology at 26 GHz raises
questions about potential thermal effects on human tissues. Controlled
human studies examining millimeter wave thermal responses remain
limited. We investigated the effects of acute 26 GHz exposure on skin
temperature in healthy volunteers under controlled laboratory
conditions. Thirty-one healthy young adults participated in a
triple-blind, randomized, crossover study. Participants underwent
genuine 26 GHz exposure (2 V/m at head level, 1 V/m at torso level) and
sham exposure, each lasting 26 minutes 30 seconds. Skin temperature was
continuously monitored using infrared thermography at five anatomical
regions (face, bilateral hand dorsum, bilateral infraclavicular areas)
across three experimental phases. No statistically significant thermal
effects were detected, with no main effect of exposure condition for any
skin region (all p > 0.34). No significant exposure-phase
interactions were detected for any measurement (all p > 0.09).
Progressive decreases in distal skin temperatures (exceeding 1.5°C, p
< 0.0001) occurred independently of exposure condition, reflecting
normal thermoregulatory adaptation to seated immobility. Distal-proximal
gradient analysis showed no significant difference between conditions
(right: p = 0.332; left: p = 0.319), and bilateral comparisons revealed
no thermal asymmetry (p = 0.269). These findings provide reassuring
evidence that acute 26 GHz exposure at environmental field strengths
produces no detectable thermal effects in healthy young adults, at
levels substantially below ICNIRP reference limits. However, these
results should not be interpreted as a direct validation of those
guideline threshold values
Excerpts
Rohde & Schwarz SMM 100A signal generator producing 5G NR signals at 26 GHz with 100 MHz bandwidth....
Under these far-field conditions, the incident power density was calculated using Pinc = E²/377 W/m², yielding 10.6 mW/m² at the head (2 V/m) and 2.65 mW/m² at the torso (1 V/m). These incident power density values are substantially below the ICNIRP (2020) reference levels for 26 GHz exposure....
Future research would benefit from integration of physiological markers such as skin blood flow, sweat rate, and metabolic indicators to provide more comprehensive assessment of thermoregulatory responses to MMW exposure. Such multimodal approaches could reveal subtle physiological adjustments not detectable through skin temperature measurements alone....
... generalizability remains limited to healthy young adults under controlled conditions, with measurements restricted to superficial skin temperatures. Future research should examine vulnerable populations (children, elderly, thermoregulatory- compromised individuals), prolonged exposure scenarios, and real-world deployment conditions with complementary physiological measurements.
Open access: https://www.nature.
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Evaluating the Protective
Effect of Melatonin on Apoptosis, Expression of Bax and Bcl2 Genes, and
ROS Level after Radiofrequency Radiation on L929 Fibroblast Cell Line
Fardid R, Zaker F, Haghani M, Saberzadeh J. Evaluating the Protective
Effect of Melatonin on Apoptosis, Expression of Bax and Bcl2 Genes, and
ROS Level after Radiofrequency Radiation on L929 Fibroblast Cell Line. J
Biomed Phys Eng. 2026 Apr 1;16(2):131-138. doi:
10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2409-1828.
Abstract
Background: The increasing use of mobile phones has raised concerns about potential health risks. In addition, the effect of protective materials is also important.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of Melatonin on cell viability, apoptosis, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) level, and gene expression of Bax and Bcl2 in L929 fibroblast cells after Radiofrequency (RF) radiation.
Material and methods: In this experimental study, cells were divided into six groups with at least 3 replications in each group. The two groups were respectively exposed to radiofrequency waves for 8 and 16 hours. They were pretreated with melatonin before radiation exposure, while the control group did not receive any radiation or melatonin during the experiment, and the melatonin group was just treated with melatonin.
Results: Cellsurvival was reduced after 8 hours of RF radiation. After 16
hours, the total apoptosis was increased, and pretreatment with
melatonin increased cell survival and reduced total apoptosis. Radiation
increased intracellular ROS levels. RF increased the Bax/Bcl2 ratio,
and the treatment with melatonin decreased it after 8 hours.
Conclusion: Melatonin prevents the increase in apoptosis and Bax/Bcl2 ratio, but there are no significant changes in survival and ROS levels.
Open access: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/--
Characterization of Static Magnetic Fields Produced by Smartphones
Zastko
L, Kubičková I, Míšek J, Kuchta I, Makinistian L, I. Belyaev I.
Characterization of Static Magnetic Fields Produced by Smartphones. IEEE
Journal of Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology,
doi: 10.1109/JERM.2026.3683318.
Abstract
Smartphones
integrate permanent magnets for speakers, cameras, vibration motors, or
accessory magnetic snap systems, which generate static magnetic fields
(SMF). While time-varying electromagnetic fields have been extensively
studied, quantitative characterization of SMF remains limited. Modern
smartphones generate measurable localized SMF hotspots that contribute
to background electromagnetic exposure. In this study, we mapped the
spatial distributions of SMF near smartphone surfaces and evaluated
their potential biomedical relevance using computational exposure
models. Three smartphone models released between 2021 – 2022 were
measured with a triaxial magnetometer at multiple distances (5 – 50 mm)
in triplicate, background-corrected, and analyzed for field intensity.
Anatomical voxel models were used to simulate exposure conditions and
field penetration into tissues. All smartphones exhibited heterogeneous
SMF distributions with local hotspots, often exceeding 800 μT at close
distances (<15 mm), associated mostly with speakers, microphones,
magnetic rings, and camera modules. Although overall SMF levels were
below the ICNIRP public whole-body exposure limit (400 mT), localized
peaks approached thresholds relevant to interference with implantable
cardiac devices (0.5 - 1 mT). Simulations confirmed localized field
penetration into adjacent tissues under realistic smartphone use
conditions. Modern smartphones generate spatially complex SMF exposures
that, although compliant with public exposure limits, may approach
levels reported to activate magnet mode in implantable cardiac devices
and represent a minor yet pervasive component of electromagnetic
exposure. These findings provide quantitative data for exposure
characterization and electromagnetic compatibility assessment.
Conclusion
Modern
smartphones generate non-negligible static magnetic fields due to their
integrated permanent magnets. Whereas field strengths remain compliant
with public exposure limits, local hotspots near device surfaces can
reach intensities relevant or implant interference and exposure
characterization. These results support inclusion of SMF in exposure
guidelines, environmental monitoring, and sustainable device design
frame-works. Recognizing SMF as a routine exposure metric will improve
future risk assessment and device safety standards.
--
A historical review of ephaptic field research: from
early foundations through contemporary renaissance
Hunt T, MacIver MB. A historical review of ephaptic field research: from
early foundations through contemporary renaissance. Front Hum Neurosci.
2026 Apr 13;20:1747899. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2026.1747899.
Abstract
Ephaptic field research has undergone a remarkable evolution spanning
over nine decades, from pioneering observations in the 1930s through a
period of severe scientific skepticism in the mid-20th century to a
contemporary renaissance driven by advanced computational modeling,
measurement techniques, and new consciousness theories. This review
traces the complete chronological development of ephaptic coupling
research, examining early foundational work by Adrian, Katz and Schmitt,
and Arvanitaki, the influential skepticism of Lashley's study that
marginalized the field for decades, and the recent resurgence beginning
in the 2000s that has led to recognition of ephaptic interactions as
providing fast and direct communication throughout the brain.
Contemporary research has established that weak electric fields (0.1-5
V/m) can produce measurable physiological effects and that ephaptic
coupling contributes significantly to brain network complexity, memory
formation, and potentially consciousness itself. Ephaptic communication,
together with some form of electromagnetic field (EMF) theory of
consciousness, provides a ready solution to the critical 'binding
problem' that has perplexed philosophers and neuroscientists for at
least the last century. This historical perspective demonstrates how
scientific paradigms can shift dramatically as methodological advances
allow for more sophisticated investigation of previously dismissed
phenomena.
Conclusion
The history of ephaptic field research demonstrates how scientific paradigms can undergo dramatic shifts as methodological advances enable more sophisticated investigation of complex phenomena. The arc from early enthusiasm through decades of dismissal to contemporary renaissance illustrates the importance of continued scientific inquiry and the willingness to revisit previously dismissed theories when new evidence emerges.
Contemporary ephaptic coupling research has established that electromagnetic field interactions represent a fundamental mechanism of neural communication that operates alongside, but independently from, chemical synaptic, as well as electrical (gap junction) transmission. The recognition that ephaptic effects can influence memory formation, brain network complexity, and potentially consciousness itself suggests that electromagnetic field theories will play an increasingly important role in understanding brain function and developing new therapeutic approaches.
Future research directions include further elucidation of ephaptic mechanisms across different brain regions and cell types, the co-evolution of differential myelination with ephaptic field effects, development of therapeutic applications based on electromagnetic field manipulation, and continued integration of ephaptic coupling into comprehensive theories of consciousness and cognition. An emerging frontier involves applying EM field principles to artificial intelligence and neuromimetic computing, particularly in developing neuromorphic chips that replicate neural electromagnetic field phenomena. The historical trajectory of this field suggests that understanding the brain and consciousness requires grasping the fundamental role of quasistatic electromagnetic fields across all spatial and temporal scales.
Open access: https://www.
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Hybrid ray-tracing-QuaDRiGa/FDTD method for realistic 28 GHz exposure
with 6G CF-MaMIMO in 3D outdoor environments
Wydaeghe R, Shikhantsov S, Vermeeren G, Martens L, Tanghe E, Joseph W.
Hybrid ray-tracing-QuaDRiGa/FDTD method for realistic 28 GHz exposure
with 6G CF-MaMIMO in 3D outdoor environments. NPJ Wirel Technol.
2026;2(1):13. doi: 10.1038/s44459-026-00031-4.
Abstract
Amid worry for 5G and 6G, the layman's question arises: "How much exposure do I realistically
experience when I walk down the street?" Focusing on mmWave
radio-frequency electromagnetic field exposure with Distributed Massive
Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (DMaMIMO) technology, a new
state-of-the-art (SOTA) numerical method is proposed to enable accurate
exposure assessment almost anywhere on Earth. Google Earth 3D
photorealistic tiles provide high-level-of-detail and high-coverage
photogrammetry. We semantically classify the meshes with an SOTA deep
learning model. The path of a pedestrian is first ray-traced at 28 GHz
with either 6G DMaMIMO or realistically deployed 5G antenna systems as
the transmitter. The large-scale fading parameters are extracted and
form the input for the QuaDRiGa tool, which finely models the
small-scale fading features of the channel along the full path with an
omnidirectional User Equipment (UE) as receiver. The resulting channel
is used in a hybridization procedure with a Huygens' box that models the
Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs) around the UE. The surface-absorbed power
density (S ab) exposure metric is computed along the
path using FDTD simulations of a realistic anatomical phantom. A case
study in Helsinki finds that the cell-free MaMIMO free-space exposure
range is 20 dB more uniform than collocated MaMIMO. A case study in New
York City finds that users experience, on average, 20 dB higher values
in exposure compared to non-users. The small-scale fading hotspot
phenomenon in realistic environments is studied in detail, showing on
average a 12 dB electric field increase w.r.t. the background and a
specific shape with up to 3 sidelobes, which is characterized
quantitatively. The S ab is less than 1% of the ICNIRP guidelines during all simulations at realistic Tx powers.
Open access: https://www.nature.
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Toward Next-Generation Exposure Metrics for the Communication Systems
Kumar S, Devi P. Toward Next-Generation Exposure Metrics for the Communication Systems. International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research. 8(2), Mar-Apr 2026. doi: 10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.
Abstract
The rapid evolution of 6G networks and
the increasing adoption of Terahertz (THz) communication systems require
the accurate and reliable exposure metrics to ensure the safe and
efficient deployment, such systems operating in 0.1-10 THz frequency
range. The next generation exposure metrics essential to investigate the
impact of THz radiation on human being and the environment. This paper
explores the induced electric field, absorbed power density and
temperature rise dossimetric instead of SAR metrics at THz frequencies
for human skin tissue. The results shows that the absorbed power density
and temperature raise in human skin are found within standards limits
given by international agencies like International commission on Non-
Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) and institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Furthermore we examine the current state
of research on biological materials and to understand the potential
biological effects of THz radiation on humans.
Open access: https://www.ijfmr.
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Impact of Continuous Wi-Fi Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure on Nutritional Quality and Metabolic Responses in Parsley and Coriander Seedlings
Djamai, N.I., Belabed, A.I., Bouslama, Z. et al. Impact of Continuous WIFI Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure on Nutritional Quality and Metabolic Responses in Parsley (Petroselinum crispum L.) and Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Seedlings.
Russ J Plant Physiol 73, 106 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1134/
Abstract
The rapid evolution of WIFI wireless technology has resulted in elevated environmental levels of electromagnetic radiation, leading to the concerns about its effects on physiological and metabolic functions of plants. This study aims to evaluate the effects of low-power WIFI microwave exposure on three growth stages (seed, germination ,and vegetative growth stage) of two aromatic plants: parsley (Petroselinum crispum L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Four groups are formed: unexposed control (Gp1), exposed from vegetative growth stage (Gp2), exposed from seed stage (Gp3), and exposed from germination stage (Gp4). The growth period was six weeks. The investigation focused on biochemical properties (soluble sugars, starch, proline content, and mineral composition) and bioactive properties (vitamins, polyphenolic compounds, antioxidants, and antibacterial activities). The exposure of WIFI microwave from the vegetative growth stage exhibited a moderate metabolic alterations in parsley and coriander. While, at the early stages, parsley and coriander displayed a pronounced metabolic changes, with a reduction of soluble sugars, starch, vitamin C, alpha tocopherol and niacin content. Additionally, the riboflavin content increased. However, the beta carotene increased at the seed stage and decreased at the germination stage. Furthermore, elemental analysis revealed an increase in the content of K, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn, and a decrease in Na. While Ca remained unchanged. Exposure at the early stages also stimulated the production of polyphenolic compounds, enhanced the antioxidant capacity and improved the antibacterial activity. The findings suggest that the impact of WIFI on parsley and coriander responses depends on the growth stage at which exposure occurred. The greatest metabolic changes were observed at the early stages.
Excerpts
Parsley and coriander were exposed to the
TL-WR841N WIFI router, which is based on the IEEE 802.11 g standard. It
is equipped with two omnidirectional antennas which transmit the WIFI
signal within the frequency range of 2.412 GHz to 2.483 GHz, and with a
maximum peak output power of 0.1 mW (20 dBm). The WIFI router was placed
at a distance of 20 cm from the different groups of irradiated plants. According to this, these kinds of WIFI devices can produce, at a distance of 20 cm, a maximum peak power density of approximately 330 mW/m2 [10]....
In conclusion, the outcome of this study suggests that WIFI radiation caused stress to the aromatic plant’s parsley and coriander, particularly upon application on the seed and germination stages. Additionally, the findings indicate also that the effect on the impact of WIFI radiofrequency varies depending on the plant’s developmental stage
The greatest deterioration in the plant system occurred when exposure to WIFI radiation started at germination or seed stage. This induced a pronounced reduction in soluble sugars, vitamin C, α-tocopherol, β-carotene and niacin content, respectively. In contrast, an increase in proline and antioxidant and antibacterial activity was observed. For riboflavin, a drop was recorded in cases of exposure to radiofrequencies after the first week, and an increase was recorded in cases of exposure to WIFI waves over the entire growing period. Elemental analysis also revealed an increase in the content of the elements K, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu and Mn, and a decrease in Na, with no effect on Ca. A growth stage-dependente relationship were observed in this study. Likewise, the parsley and coriander plants exhibited generally a similar responses to WIFI. In future works, it is worthwhile to study the effect of 2.45 or 5 GHz radiation on all of stage of growth plant.
https://link-springer-com.
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Dosimetry of a Thermoregulated TEM Cell for 5G 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz Band Frequencies for Bioelectromagnetic Investigations
Nasri A, Michard L, Serradeill L, Orlacchio R, Percherancier Y, Leveque
P, Dalmay C, Arnaud-Cormos D. Dosimetry of a Thermoregulated TEM Cell
for 5G 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz Band Frequencies for Bioelectromagnetic
Investigations. Sensors. 2026; 26(8):2393. doi: 10.3390/s26082393.
Abstract
This work presents the design and characterization of a thermoregulated,
bandwidth-enhanced TEM cell system optimized for bioelectromagnetic
experiments on biological cells, with a focus on bioluminescence
resonance energy transfer investigations at 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz.
Bandwidth improvement, achieved through geometric modifications and
optimized connector transitions, resulted in reduced return and
insertion losses and improved field uniformity, particularly in the
2.5–6 GHz range. Numerical simulations showed homogeneous electric field
and normalized specific absorption rate (SAR) distributions (~1 W/kg)
at 700 MHz. At 3.5 GHz, the improved TEM cell provided the most uniform
exposure of the biological sample with SAR values of 15 W/kg and 10.5
W/kg, for the bulk and surface (bottom layer), respectively.
Experimental SAR measurements using a ~1 mm3 fluoro-optic
probe agreed well with simulations. To counteract RF-induced heating,
the system incorporated active thermoregulation at 37 °C. At 3.5 GHz and
20 W input power, a 1.5 °C rise over 120 s was effectively mitigated
using water-circulation cooling. This work provides a controlled and
reliable setup for future studies on the interaction of 5G-band
electromagnetic fields with biological systems.
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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Effects of Electromagnetic Fields on Apoptosis and Stress Protein
Biomarkers in the Spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum
Porc W, Rozpędek K, Glenszczyk M, Lis A, Babczyńska A. Assessment of the
Effects of Electromagnetic Fields on Apoptosis and Stress Protein
Biomarkers in the Spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2026; 27(9):4088. doi: 10.3390/ijms27094088.
Abstract
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs), increasingly prevalent due to
technological advancements, have raised significant concerns regarding
their potential biological effects on living organisms. While much
attention has focused on human health, growing evidence suggests that
EMFs can also affect invertebrates, which play vital ecological roles.
This study investigates the biochemical and cell death biomarker
responses to EMF exposure for 24 h or 72 h in Parasteatoda tepidariorum.
The focus is placed on the 10 MHz frequency, which is relevant to
environmental exposure scenarios. Biochemical biomarkers include heat
shock proteins (HSP70) and the percentage of apoptotic and living cells
in individuals at their embryonic, young and adult stages. Results
indicate that exposure to EMFs can induce measurable stress responses at
the biochemical level, with variations depending on developmental stage
and protective structures. Embryos outside of the egg sac exhibited
significantly elevated levels of HSP70 and apoptosis markers compared to
those within the sac, suggesting a partial protective effect of the
cocoons. Furthermore, differences in biomarker sensitivity were observed
across all the developmental stages and increased with prolonged
exposure. These findings contribute to the understanding of EMF-induced
biological effects in invertebrates and support the use of P. tepidariorum as a model species for environmental electromagnetic pollution.
Excerpts
The experimental setup for electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure included a pair of parallel copper plates (10 cm × 10 cm) separated by a distance of 10 cm and connected to a sinusoidal signal generator (Funktionsgenerator 250350—Frederiksen Scientific, Olgod, Denmark), providing a frequency of 10 MHz. The electromagnetic field strength was monitored using a broadband field meter (Tenmars TM-196, Taipei, Taiwan). Samples were placed precisely in the central part of the experimental setup (Figure 9).
Given the dimensions of the setup, the field between
the plates was in the near-field regime. The dominant component of the
field in our conditions is the electric field, which was directly
measured and was within the range of 4.264–5.045 V/m. Measurements were
performed at multiple positions between the plates to verify the spatial
distribution and approximate uniformity of the generated field.
Background
magnetic field levels were monitored prior to exposure using a
low-frequency range meter (Tenmars TM-191, Taipei, Taiwan), and ranged
from approximately 0.12 µT. These values refer to low-frequency
environmental background, mainly associated with power-frequency fields
(50 Hz), and are not directly comparable with the high-frequency
electromagnetic field generated in the present experimental setup.
Additionally, the background field was measured by means of the Tenmars
TM-196 m. These values for the electric component were equal to 0.2–0.5
V/m, which are typical for indoor RF background (WiFi/GSM).
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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A Study
on Biological Effects of Terahertz Radiations for 6G Communications
Niranjan SP, Phani R, Attel HB, Baligar J. A Study
on Biological Effects of Terahertz Radiations for 6G Communications. 2026 2nd International Conference on Computing for Sustainability and Intelligent Future (COMP-SIF), Bengaluru, India, 2026, pp. 1-5, doi: 10.1109/COMP-SIF69752.2026.
Abstract
The advent of sixth-generation (6 G) wireless communication systems,
operating within the terahertz (THz) frequency spectrum (0.1−10THz),
heralds a new frontier in ultra- high-speed data transmission and
energy-efficient connectivity. This review critically examines the
biological effects of THz radiation, focusing on cellular and molecular
responses that include DNA damage, chromosomal instability, epigenetic
modifications, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered gene expression
profiles. Experimental evidence from neural and stem cell models
demonstrates that THz exposure can induce oxidative stress, apoptosis,
and changes in cell proliferation, highlighting potential health risks
associated with prolonged exposure. Concurrently, THz radiation's
capacity to modulate membrane permeability and gene regulation opens
promising biomedical applications in diagnostics and regenerative
therapies. The paper also addresses the challenges of integrating THz
antennas into wearable devices, emphasizing the need for designs that
minimize human tissue absorption while maintaining performance. As 6 G
technologies advance toward widespread adoption, this review underscores
the imperative for interdisciplinary research to establish robust
safety standards and harness the full potential of THz radiation in both
communication and medical fields.
Excerpt
Evidence from preliminary studies points to changes at the cellular and molecular levels, with implications for systems such as neural and reproductive health. These concerns emphasize that the progress of wireless technology must go hand in hand with thorough safety assessments, ensuring that the benefits of 6G are realized without compromising human well-being.
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Effect of three different
frequencies of micro-magnetic stimulation on the neuronal electrical
activity of the hippocampal CA1 neurons in mice
Zheng Y, Wang M, Dong L, Tian C, Qi D, Chen Y. Effect of three different
frequencies of micro-magnetic stimulation on the neuronal electrical
activity of the hippocampal CA1 neurons in mice. Neuroscience. 2025 Apr
6;571:96-107. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2025.
Abstract
Frequency is essential in regulating neuroelectric activity using magnetic fields. Current reports focus on 100 Hz or less. Studying other relatively high magnetic stimulation frequencies is necessary to reveal the influence of magnetic stimulation frequency parameters on electrical activity.This paper examined the pyramidal neurons in the CA1 region of the hippocampus of C57 mice. A custom-built micro-magnetic stimulation (μMS) device with sub-millimeter dimensions was utilized. Three magnetic field frequencies of 15 Hz, 3 kHz, and 70 kHz were chosen at a magnetic field strength of 1 mT. Precision-targeted magnetic stimulation of CA3 area neurons upstream of CA1 by whole-cell membrane clamp method. The effects of three various magnetic stimulation frequencies on the action potential (AP), sodium channel current (INa), and transient outward potassium channel current (IA) of neurons in the hippocampal CA1 area were investigated. 15 Hz inhibited the excitability of pyramidal neurons within the CA1 area; 3 kHz had a facilitating effect, while the 70 kHz magnetic stimulation had a more pronounced facilitating effect. Magnetic field stimulation at 15 Hz decreased neuronal excitability, whereas magnetic field stimulation at 3 and 70 kHz increased neuronal excitability.
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Impact of extremely low frequency
electromagnetic fields exposure on sleep quality and mental health in a
Tunisian power plant: a cross-sectional study
Kacem I, Jammeli I, Sridi C, Gaddour A, Makhloufi M, Aloui A, Chouchane
A, Maalel OE, Kahloul M, Mrizak N. Impact of extremely low frequency
electromagnetic fields exposure on sleep quality and mental health in a
Tunisian power plant: a cross-sectional study. Front Psychiatry. 2026
Apr 24;17:1755918. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1755918.
Abstract
Introduction: Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) are ubiquitous in our daily life. They may have an impact not only on physical health but also on mental health.
Objectives: To assess the impact of occupational exposure to the ELF-EMFs on sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress among workers at the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (TEGC).
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The study population included two groups: an exposed group (EG), consisting of power plant employees, and a non-exposed group (NEG), consisting of administrative workers. Exposure to ELF-EMFs was assessed via spot measurements using a magnetometer. Sleep quality, depression, anxiety and stress were assessed by the French versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21).
Results: Seventy-seven participants in the EG and 88 participants in the NEG were included in the study. The median value of the ELF-EMFs was 5.86 μT at the power plant [min 0.1, max 40.34 μT]. According to the PSQI global score, 64.9% of the EG had poor sleep quality versus 29.5% of the NEG. Depression was registered in 24.7% of EG and in 3.4% of NEG. Anxiety was noted in 23.4% of the EG and in none of the NEG. Stress was found in 46.8% of the EG and none of the NEG. After multivariate analysis, ELF-EMF exposure was significantly associated with poor sleep quality and depression.
Conclusion: The present study revealed that ELF-EMFs can affect sleep and mental health. Further studies are needed to explain the mechanism involved.
Open access: https://www.
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Determination of Ground Clearance for EHV 400
kV Overhead Power Lines Based on Electromagnetic Field Limits
Bendík
J, Cenký M, Eleschová Ž. Determination of Ground Clearance for EHV 400
kV Overhead Power Lines Based on Electromagnetic Field Limits. Electricity. 2026; 7(2):39. doi: 10.3390/electricity7020039
Abstract
The planning and design of Extra-High Voltage (EHV) overhead power lines
require strict adherence to electromagnetic field exposure limits to
ensure public safety. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of
the minimum ground clearance required for standard 400 kV transmission
towers to comply with international safety guidelines. A review of
legislative frameworks across 37 countries indicates a widespread
consensus on limiting values of 5 kV/m for the electric field and 100 T
for magnetic flux density. Using analytical methods, the electric and
magnetic fields were calculated for four common tower geometries (Cat,
Portal, Danube, and Barrel) under varying ground clearances and phase
configurations. The results demonstrate that the magnetic flux density
is not a limiting factor, as it remains well below safety thresholds
even at standard technical clearances. Conversely, the electric field
intensity proves to be the critical design constraint, often requiring
clearances significantly higher than those dictated by insulation
coordination. The study identifies that optimizing the phase sequence in
double-circuit towers can reduce the required ground clearance by up to
28%, offering a cost-effective mitigation strategy. These findings
provide power line designers with essential decision-making data for the
preliminary design phase, enabling the optimization of tower geometry
and phase arrangement without the need for computationally intensive
simulations.
Conclusions
This study provides a systematic evaluation of the
ground clearance requirements for 400 kV overhead power lines based on
electromagnetic field limitations. The review of international
regulatory frameworks reveals that the majority of European nations and
surveyed countries align with the standard exposure limits of 5 kV/m for
the electric field and 100 T
for the magnetic flux density. This legislative uniformity underscores
the broad applicability of the presented results across the continental
power grid.
The numerical analysis confirms that for EHV transmission lines, the electric field intensity E is the governing design constraint. In every simulated scenario, the magnetic flux density B remained significantly below the 100 T
threshold, even at the minimum technical clearance of 8 m. Therefore,
safety assessments and mitigation efforts must prioritize the electric
field, which often necessitates tower heights exceeding standard
mechanical requirements.
Crucially, this
research highlights the impact of phase sequence position optimization
as a primary mitigation technique. For double-circuit configurations,
selecting the optimal phase arrangement can lower the required ground
clearance by several meters—most notably in the Barrel tower
configuration—without incurring additional construction costs.
The
data presented in this paper serves as a vital tool for power line
designers. By integrating these findings into the preliminary design
phase, engineers can determine the optimal tower geometry and phase
sequence early in the project lifecycle. This proactive approach
prevents the need for costly iterative modifications or complex custom
simulations later in the process, ensuring both regulatory compliance
and economic efficiency in the development of 400 kV transmission
infrastructure.
Open access: https://www.mdpi.com/
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A Cumulative Exposure Assessment Method for Low-Frequency Magnetic Field for Electric Vehicles Based on Peak Detection
Zhao S, Wang R, Fu J, Cui X, Cui P, She H. A Cumulative Exposure Assessment Method for Low-Frequency Magnetic Field for Electric Vehicles Based on Peak Detection. 2026 IEEE 8th International Conference on Communications, Information System and Computer Engineering (CISCE), Guangzhou, China, 2026, pp. 538-542, doi: 10.1109/CISCE69494.2026.
Abstract
This paper investigates the assessment method for low-frequency magnetic filed based on peak detection for electric vehicles. When applying the GB 8702 criterion to 20 actual EV measurements using full-frequency-point accumulation, the compliance rate was 0%, indicating overly conservative exposure assessment. This paper establishes an assessment model comprising threshold screening and peak detection. This approach elevates the compliance rate and yields a logically physical interpretation. Furthermore, it conducts an in-depth analysis of the significance of varying thresholds and peak detection, thereby providing a more scientifically grounded engineering methodology for the electromagnetic field safety assessment of electric vehicles.
Excerpt
The weighted method was employed to reflect the average contribution of each operational state. Under the 1% threshold with weighting, no vehicles passed (zero pass rate) regardless of whether the threshold limit or peak detection filtering was applied, indicating that all vehicles failed to meet the requirements under this stringent criterion.
At the 5% weighted threshold, 10 vehicles passed based on the threshold limit, while the application of peak detection increased this number to 14. This represents an improvement of 5 and 7 vehicles, respectively, compared to the direct superposition method at the 5% threshold. Similarly, at the 10% weighted threshold, 14 vehicles passed using the threshold limit, which increased to 18 when peak detection was applied. Thus, there is a gain of 5 and 8 vehicles over the direct superposition results.
These results suggest that the 1% threshold is overly stringent, as neither peak detection nor the weighted method can effectively improve the pass rate. However, under the 5% and 10% thresholds, peak detection significantly enhances the pass rate, and the weighted method proves to be more lenient than direct superposition.
It is worth noting that all 20 selected vehicles have already passed the GB/T 37130 standard. Therefore, subsequent engineering adjustments regarding the frequency-domain accumulation scheme can be benchmarked against these results.
At the 5% weighted threshold, 10 vehicles passed based on the threshold limit, while the application of peak detection increased this number to 14. This represents an improvement of 5 and 7 vehicles, respectively, compared to the direct superposition method at the 5% threshold. Similarly, at the 10% weighted threshold, 14 vehicles passed using the threshold limit, which increased to 18 when peak detection was applied. Thus, there is a gain of 5 and 8 vehicles over the direct superposition results.
These results suggest that the 1% threshold is overly stringent, as neither peak detection nor the weighted method can effectively improve the pass rate. However, under the 5% and 10% thresholds, peak detection significantly enhances the pass rate, and the weighted method proves to be more lenient than direct superposition.
It is worth noting that all 20 selected vehicles have already passed the GB/T 37130 standard. Therefore, subsequent engineering adjustments regarding the frequency-domain accumulation scheme can be benchmarked against these results.
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Higher Daytime Light Exposure Predicts Lower Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancer Incidence and Mortality
Mei X, Wang W, Zheng N, et al., Higher Daytime Light Exposure Predicts Lower Risk of Gastrointestinal Cancer Incidence and Mortality. International Journal of Cancer (2026): 1–10, https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.
Abstract
Daytime light exposure is essential for health, primarily by synchronizing tissue and cellular-level clocks with the external light/dark cycle. Insufficient exposure may disrupt circadian alignment and contribute to adverse outcomes, including cancer. Given the high prevalence of gastrointestinal cancer, we conducted a prospective cohort study of 89,069 participants with objectively measured daytime light intensity and duration. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate associations with gastrointestinal cancer incidence and mortality. Over a median follow-up of 8.8 years (804,111 person-years), 1692 gastrointestinal cancer cases were recorded, of which 891 were fatal. Higher mean levels of daytime light (≥ 1916 lux between 7:30–20:30, based on the 80% cut-off) were associated with lower risk of gastrointestinal cancer incidence (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–0.99, p = 0.04) and mortality (HR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63–0.93, p = 0.008), particularly for pancreatic cancer incidence (HR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.40–0.85, p = 0.005) and mortality (HR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.30–0.73, p = 0.001). Daytime light exposure ≥ 2.4 h (≥ 5000 lux between 7:30 and 20:30, which is often used as a chronotherapeutic threshold) was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality. Predictive ability of daytime light metrics exceeded that of sleep quality, diet, depression, and alcohol consumption. Higher daytime light exposure was associated with lower risks of gastrointestinal cancer incidence and mortality, especially for pancreatic cancer, indicating a potential protective effect that warrants further investigation in prevention and prognostic contexts.
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A systematic review of the health effects of occupational exposure to ultraviolet radiation
Rocha R, Guedes J, Santos J et al. A systematic review of the health effects of occupational exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Discov Public Health 23, 488 (2026). doi: 10.1186/s12982-026-01745-0.
Abstract
Introduction Given the increasing duration and intensity of occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR), outdoor workers are particularly vulnerable to its adverse effects. This systematic review aimed to identify the health outcomes associated with occupational exposure to solar UVR, considering both negative and positive effects, and examining related factors such as occupational groups involved, sun protection practices, and study limitations.
Methods A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases on 19 November 2024. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, published in English between 2019 and 2024, and involved human participants occupationally exposed to solar UVR. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist for Qualitative Research. Data were synthesized descriptively.
Results A total of 16 studies involving 12,268 participants met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently reported adverse health effects included skin cancer, cataracts, and photoaging. On the other hand, moderate solar UVR exposure was associated with a reduced risk of colon and prostate cancers. Sun protection practices varied considerably among studies. Common limitations included methodological heterogeneity and potential publication bias.
Conclusion This review highlights the substantial health risks, and some potential benefits associated with occupational exposure to solar UVR. The findings support the urgent need for improved sun protection policies in occupational settings and call for more robust, quantitative research to better inform risk assessment and prevention strategies.
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Ultraviolet radiation exposure and melanoma risk among over 2 million Ontario workers
O’Sullivan DE, Eros FR, DeBono NL, et al. Ultraviolet radiation exposure and melanoma risk among over 2 million Ontario workers.
Sci Rep (2026). doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-48477-4.
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the association between occupational sun
exposure and melanoma risk among a large cohort of 2.4 million workers.
These workers were identified through accepted compensation claims,
which were linked to cancer records to identify melanoma diagnoses from
1983 to 2019 in Ontario, Canada. An existing job exposure matrix,
SUNJEM, was used to estimate occupational solar ultraviolet radiation
(UVR) exposure as low-intermittent (intermittent/partly shaded
exposure), moderate (2 to < 6 h/day), or high (≥6 h/day). The
association between occupational solar UVR and melanoma risk was
assessed using Cox proportional hazard regression models, with age as
the timescale and adjustment for sex and birth cohort. A total of 8,170
incident melanoma cases were identified among workers. Both the
low-intermittent (HR = 1.26; 95%CI = 1.17–1.38) and high exposure groups
(HR = 1.13; 95%CI = 1.01–1.26) had higher rates of melanoma than indoor
workers. The low-intermittent exposure group had elevated melanoma
rates on the arms and trunk (body), while the high exposure group had an
elevated rate on the head and trunk. High risk occupation groups
included truck drivers and farmers. Findings support an association
between low-intermittent and high occupational solar UVR exposures and
melanoma risk. Sun protection measures should focus on at-risk
occupational groups.
Open access: https://www.nature.
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Broad presence of
ferromagnetism in bees and relationship to phylogeny, natural history,
and sociality
Russo L, Allen C, Jorgensen CS, Quigley L, Buchanan CC, Winklhofer M,
Brady SG, Packer L, Murray A, Gilbert DA. Broad presence of
ferromagnetism in bees and relationship to phylogeny, natural history,
and sociality. Sci Adv. 2026 Apr 17;12(16):eaed7391. doi:
10.1126/sciadv.aed7391.
Abstract
Scientists have long been fascinated by magnetoreception, the innate capacity of many animals to sense and use Earth's magnetic field for navigation. In eusocial insects like honey bees, magnetoreception has been linked to communication and foraging. However, little is known about magnetoreception's phylogenetic patterns and relationship to species traits and natural history. Here, we demonstrate that putative magnetoreception based on ferromagnetic particles is widespread across a diversity of bee species (74 of 96 species tested), with no phylogenetic signal. We also detected such putative magnetoreception in non-bee outgroups, suggesting that this magnetic capacity predates the evolution of the Anthophila. Although magnetic signals were found across a diversity of life history traits, the strength of the magnetic signal varied within and between species and increased with body size and social behavior.
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Magnetic disc enhances resilience and over-winter survival of honeybees (Apis mellifera)
Havas M. Magnetic disc enhances resilience and over-winter survival of honeybees (Apis mellifera). Electromagn Biol Med. 2026 Apr 16:1-10. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2026.2644215.
Abstract
Honeybee losses continue to threaten ecological and agricultural
stability worldwide. This field study evaluated whether a static
neodymium magnetic disc placed beneath beehives could enhance colony
resilience and overwinter survival. Two commercial apiaries (≈60 hives
total) under identical management in Ontario, Canada, were monitored in
late summer 2023, spring 2024 and after a mid‑season partial crossover
in August 2024. One yard received magnetic discs, while the second
served as control. Treated hives (i.e. with magnets) compared with the
control hives exhibited significantly higher overwinter survival,
stronger spring populations, better hygiene and fewer queen replacements
than controls (p < 0.001). After discs were added to the
control yard, colony performance improved within 8 weeks, reaching
parity with the initially treated hives. Static magnetic arrays
positioned beneath hives appear to enhance colony health and stability,
possibly through modulation of bioelectromagnetic or redox processes
known to influence cellular energy metabolism. Although magnetic
modulation of bioenergetic and redox processes is hypothesized, direct
electrical or biochemical measurements were not performed and should be
prioritized in future studies. This approach provides a simple, low-cost
intervention to improve apicultural outcomes and pollinator resilience.
Future studies could investigate the effectiveness of these magnets in
areas with known environmental stressors.
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Exposure limits to
radiofrequency EMF do not account for cancer risk or reproductive
toxicity assessed from data in experimental animals
Melnick RL, Moskowitz JM, International Commission on the Biological
Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF). Exposure limits to
radiofrequency EMF do not account for cancer risk or reproductive
toxicity assessed from data in experimental animals. Environ Health.
2026 Mar 14. doi: 10.1186/s12940-026-01288-6.
Abstract
Background Recent WHO-commissioned systematic reviews have concluded with “high certainty” that exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) increases cancer risk and reduces male fertility in experimental animals.
Methods We performed benchmark dose (BMD) analyses on experimental cancer data to estimate exposure levels associated with cancer risk of 1 × 10–5 (1 in 100,000). Due to the lack of an established non-linear mode of action for RF-EMF-induced tumor responses, we utilized linear low-dose extrapolation from 1% BMD values. In addition, we applied traditional uncertainty factors to the reported linear potency value of 0.03 per W/kg for male reproductive toxicity to derive health-protective exposure limits.
Results The derived dose per hour (expressed as the specific absorption rate, SAR) at 1 × 10–5 cancer risk ranges from about 0.8 to 5 mW/kg. It should be noted that cancer risk increases with increasing time of exposure to RF-EMF. For protection of male fertility due to exposure to RF-EMF, the estimated SAR exposure limit was 3.3 to 10 mW/kg. These health protective whole-body exposure values are significantly lower than the current whole-body exposure limit value of 0.08 W/kg (80 mW/kg) established by ICNIRP and the FCC for the general public.
Conclusions For the general public, current regulatory limits to RF-EMF are 15- to 900-fold higher than our estimates of exposure levels associated with cancer risk of 1 × 10–5 (depending on the duration of daily exposure), and 8- to 24-fold higher than levels that are protective of male reproductive health. Thus, we strongly recommend an independent re-evaluation of RF-EMF exposure limits, integrating scientific data accumulated over the past 30 years and applying rigorous health-protective methodologies.