Methods: We recruited participants in Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK 2007-2012. The baseline questionnaire assessed lifetime history of mobile phone use. Participants were followed through population-based cancer registers to identify glioma, meningioma, and acoustic neuroma cases during follow-up. Non-differential exposure misclassification was reduced by adjusting estimates of mobile phone call-time through regression calibration methods based on self-reported data and objective operator-recorded information at baseline. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for glioma, meningioma, and acoustic neuroma in relation to lifetime history of mobile phone use were estimated with Cox regression models with attained age as the underlying time-scale, adjusted for country, sex, educational level, and marital status.
Results: 264,574 participants accrued 1,836,479 person-years. During a median follow-up of 7.12 years, 149 glioma, 89 meningioma, and 29 incident cases of acoustic neuroma were diagnosed. The adjusted HR per 100 regression-calibrated cumulative hours of mobile phone call-time was 1.00 (95 % CI 0.98-1.02) for glioma, 1.01 (95 % CI 0.96-1.06) for meningioma, and 1.02 (95 % CI 0.99-1.06) for acoustic neuroma. For glioma, the HR for ≥ 1908 regression-calibrated cumulative hours (90th percentile cut-point) was 1.07 (95 % CI 0.62-1.86). Over 15 years of mobile phone use was not associated with an increased tumour risk; for glioma the HR was 0.97 (95 % CI 0.62-1.52).
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the cumulative amount of mobile phone use is not associated with the risk of developing glioma, meningioma, or acoustic neuroma.
Supplementary material: https://www.sciencedirect.com/
- This paper analyzes the feasibility of assessing the 5G base stations compliance using broadband field probes and compares their performance with alternative methodologies and equipment.
- Performance of three different methodologies and equipment (broadband probes, spectrum analyzers, and drive test scanners), in the context of human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) from 5G base stations, is compared.
- Quantification of the uncertainty that the fluctuation in 5G signal levels induces in the assessment of electromagnetic fields exposure is provided.
- The use of broadband field probes for 5G exposure assessment is still possible under certain considerations and correcting the results considering the base station load and beamforming effects.
5G networks deployment poses new challenges when evaluating human exposure to electromagnetic fields. Fast variation of the user load and beamforming techniques may cause large fluctuations of 5G base stations field level. They may be underestimated, resulting in compliance of base stations not fitting the requirements. Apparently, broadband field meters would not be adequate for measuring such environments. However, we analyze the feasibility of confidently using broadband field meters and compare their performance with alternative equipment. Measurements based on the synchronization signals power level, using spectrum analyzers or drive test scanners, may be valid, if gain differences between the signaling and data radiation patterns are characterized. These methods lead to good results but require more time and knowledge. Nevertheless, using broadband field meters is still possible if the measurement results are corrected considering the base station load. Under specific conditions, explained here, fast assessment of 5G compliance could be provided.
Assessing human exposure to an electromagnetic field in presence of a 5G base station is not an easy task. The implementation of M−MIMO techniques in 5G base stations results in adaptive beamforming. This makes difficult to guarantee that the field levels are at their maximum at the measurement location during the complete measurement period, which would limit the applicability of broadband instruments as having been done for previous generations. In this research, we have compared different methods for 5G exposure assessment, using a broadband field meter with an isotropic probe, a spectrum analyzer and a drive test scanner.
Along the paper, we first give an overview of the 5G signal structure, describing the frequency domain and time domain specifications. Afterwards, possible assessment methods are described. The SSB level is measured using the Keysight FieldFox N9913A SA and the Rohde & Schwarz TSM6 DTS. The values are extrapolated to the worst-case exposure and compared to the measurements done with the Wavecontrol WPF8 broadband field probe. Measurements are repeated increasing the base station load by performing a heavy download from a 5G user terminal located near the testers.
The proposed methods were field tested at the University of Vigo, Spain, with a commercial 5G base station located on its campus. The measurements were performed at 7 locations in LOS conditions around the base station, gathering data with the three different equipment at the same locations and at the same time. This data collection allows the comparison of the three methodologies under the same radiating conditions.
All results have been analyzed considering the specific measurement uncertainties, which allows a deeper and more precise comparison among them.
From the measurement results, we can extract that the exposure levels are low at this stage of the 5G deployment. When loading the base station, the results showed that using the broadband field meter can overestimate the field level. Thus, it is still a useful method to check if the field levels comply with the regulation in human exposure; very simple and cost-effective compared with others. In-situ measurements of human exposure to EMF have to be practical and easy to carry, involving only the resources and equipment strictly necessary, but without compromising the validity of the results. When the reference levels are surpassed, more accurate methods based in the assessment and extrapolation of the SSB level could be a solution. The drawback is the required post processing, specially correcting the gain difference between SSB and data signals. If not provided by the network operator, this difference can be determined through measurements, as explained along this document. Measuring with an SA in max-hold mode in the bandwidth of the SSB does not work in 5G as it does in LTE, as we cannot be sure if the measured level corresponds to the SSB or to the user data, no matter if we are forcing the load of the station or not.
The analysis of the results demonstrate that broadband instruments can be used for assessing human exposure to EMF in the vicinity of 5G base stations, which radiating elements provide fields with extreme fluctuations in their intensity as a function of the system load and beamforming configuration. This is accurate when measurements are done by forcing an extra load of the station and the pointing of an antenna beam towards the probe. The validation of this fast method as a first attempt to assess the compliance of 5G stations permits the testing of these base stations in an efficient way. Only when broadband instrument results (including their uncertainties) would overpass the reference levels, a more detailed analysis would be necessary, which procedure and tips are also depicted along this paper.
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In situ measurements of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure levels at rooftops, close to 117 base stations operating at 5G FR1 in Greece in order to evaluate the contribution of 5G to the total exposure.
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Statistical analysis of the follow-up for inspections of the same base stations, before and after the 5G FR1 launching in Greece.
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Case study of a 5G FR1 base station during its pilot and regular operation based on in situ and broadband & frequency selective 24/7 monitoring sensors measurements data.
In Greece, 5G New Radio (NR) has started launching in the end of 2020, at the 3400-3800 MHz (FR1) frequency band. Focusing on 117 Base Stations (BSs) which were already equipped with 5G NR antennas, in situ broadband and frequency selective measurements have been conducted at minimum three points of interest, at adjacent rooftops (when accessible). The points have been selected according to the sweeping method and the electric field strength (E) value has been stored on the selected worst-case scenario point. Spectrum analysis was conducted in the FR1, for the allocated spectrum that corresponds to each mobile communication provider, in order to get preliminary results concerning the contribution of the 5G NR emissions in the general public exposure levels. The vast majority of the in situ measurements has been conducted in urban environments from the beginning of 2021 until the mid of 2022, since in Greece 5G NR services launching started from the big cities. Additionally, a 5G NR BS, installed in a suburban environment (in the city of Kalamata) is thoroughly investigated during its pilot and regular operation, based on broadband and frequency selective measurements data derived by the National Observatory of Electromagnetic Fields (NOEF) monitoring sensor network. In situ measurement data within the 5G NR frequency range are verified via the NOEF's output. The 5G NR contribution to the total E-field levels is assessed in time, from pilot to regular operation of the BS. In all cases, compliance with the reference levels for general public exposure is affirmed.
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Editorial: Neurological Illness and National Security: Lessons to Be Learned
Relman DA. Neurological Illness and National Security: Lessons to Be Learned. JAMA. Published online March 18, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.26818
No abstract
ExcerptOpen access paper: https://jamanetwork.com/
Chan L, Hallett M, Zalewski CK, et al; NIH AHI Intramural Research Program Team. Clinical, biomarker, and research tests among US government personnel and their family members involved in anomalous health incidents. JAMA. Published March 18, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.2413
Key Points
Questions Do US government officials and their family members involved in anomalous health incidents (AHIs) differ from control participants with respect to clinical, biomarker, and research assessments?
Findings In this exploratory study that included 86 participants reporting AHIs and 30 vocationally matched control participants, there were no significant differences in most tests of auditory, vestibular, cognitive, visual function, or blood biomarkers between the groups. Participants with AHIs performed significantly worse on self-reported and objective measures of balance, and had significantly increased symptoms of fatigue, posttraumatic stress disorder, and depression compared with the control participants; 24 participants (28%) with AHIs presented with functional neurological disorders.
Meaning In this exploratory study, there were no significant differences between individuals reporting AHIs and matched control participants with respect to most clinical, research, and biomarker measures, except for self-reported and objective measures of imbalance; symptoms of fatigue, posttraumatic stress, and depression; and the development of functional neurological disorders in some.
Abstract
Importance Since 2015, US government and related personnel have reported dizziness, pain, visual problems, and cognitive dysfunction after experiencing intrusive sounds and head pressure. The US government has labeled these anomalous health incidents (AHIs).
Objective To assess whether participants with AHIs differ significantly from US government control participants with respect to clinical, research, and biomarker assessments.
Design, Setting, and Participants Exploratory study conducted between June 2018 and July 2022 at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, involving 86 US government staff and family members with AHIs from Cuba, Austria, China, and other locations as well as 30 US government control participants.
Exposures AHIs.
Main Outcomes and Measures Participants were assessed with extensive clinical, auditory, vestibular, balance, visual, neuropsychological, and blood biomarkers (glial fibrillary acidic protein and neurofilament light) testing. The patients were analyzed based on the risk characteristics of the AHI identifying concerning cases as well as geographic location.
Results Eighty-six participants with AHIs (42 women and 44 men; mean [SD] age, 42.1 [9.1] years) and 30 vocationally matched government control participants (11 women and 19 men; mean [SD] age, 43.8 [10.1] years) were included in the analyses. Participants with AHIs were evaluated a median of 76 days (IQR, 30-537) from the most recent incident. In general, there were no significant differences between participants with AHIs and control participants in most tests of auditory, vestibular, cognitive, or visual function as well as levels of the blood biomarkers. Participants with AHIs had significantly increased fatigue, depression, posttraumatic stress, imbalance, and neurobehavioral symptoms compared with the control participants. There were no differences in these findings based on the risk characteristics of the incident or geographic location of the AHIs. Twenty-four patients (28%) with AHI presented with functional neurological disorders.
Conclusions and Relevance In this exploratory study, there were no significant differences between individuals reporting AHIs and matched control participants with respect to most clinical, research, and biomarker measures, except for objective and self-reported measures of imbalance and symptoms of fatigue, posttraumatic stress, and depression. This study did not replicate the findings of previous studies, although differences in the populations included and the timing of assessments limit direct comparisons.
Pierpaoli C, Nayak A, Hafiz R, et al; NIH AHI Intramural Research Program Team. Neuroimaging findings in US government personnel and their family members involved in anomalous health incidents. JAMA. Published March 18, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.2424
Key Points
Question Can a systematic evaluation using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) metrics identify potential brain lesions in patients who have experienced anomalous health incidents (AHIs) compared with a well-matched control group?
Findings In this exploratory study that involved brain imaging of 81 participants who experienced AHIs and 48 matched control participants, there were no significant between-group differences in MRI measures of volume, diffusion MRI–derived metrics, or functional connectivity using functional MRI after adjustments for multiple comparisons. The MRI results were highly reproducible and stable at longitudinal follow-ups. No clear relationships between imaging and clinical variables emerged.
Meaning In this exploratory neuroimaging study, there was no significant MRI-detectable evidence of brain injury among the group of participants who experienced AHIs compared with a group of matched control participants. This finding has implications for future research efforts as well as for interventions aimed at improving clinical care for the participants who experienced AHIs.
Abstract
Importance US government personnel stationed internationally have reported anomalous health incidents (AHIs), with some individuals experiencing persistent debilitating symptoms.
Objective To assess the potential presence of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–detectable brain lesions in participants with AHIs, with respect to a well-matched control group.
Design, Setting, and Participants This exploratory study was conducted at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center and the NIH MRI Research Facility between June 2018 and November 2022. Eighty-one participants with AHIs and 48 age- and sex-matched control participants, 29 of whom had similar employment as the AHI group, were assessed with clinical, volumetric, and functional MRI. A high-quality diffusion MRI scan and a second volumetric scan were also acquired during a different session. The structural MRI acquisition protocol was optimized to achieve high reproducibility. Forty-nine participants with AHIs had at least 1 additional imaging session approximately 6 to 12 months from the first visit.
Exposure AHIs.
Main Outcomes and Measures Group-level quantitative metrics obtained from multiple modalities: (1) volumetric measurement, voxel-wise and region of interest (ROI)–wise; (2) diffusion MRI–derived metrics, voxel-wise and ROI-wise; and (3) ROI-wise within-network resting-state functional connectivity using functional MRI. Exploratory data analyses used both standard, nonparametric tests and bayesian multilevel modeling.
Results Among the 81 participants with AHIs, the mean (SD) age was 42 (9) years and 49% were female; among the 48 control participants, the mean (SD) age was 43 (11) years and 42% were female. Imaging scans were performed as early as 14 days after experiencing AHIs with a median delay period of 80 (IQR, 36-544) days. After adjustment for multiple comparisons, no significant differences between participants with AHIs and control participants were found for any MRI modality. At an unadjusted threshold (P < .05), compared with control participants, participants with AHIs had lower intranetwork connectivity in the salience networks, a larger corpus callosum, and diffusion MRI differences in the corpus callosum, superior longitudinal fasciculus, cingulum, inferior cerebellar peduncle, and amygdala. The structural MRI measurements were highly reproducible (median coefficient of variation <1% across all global volumetric ROIs and <1.5% for all white matter ROIs for diffusion metrics). Even individuals with large differences from control participants exhibited stable longitudinal results (typically, <±1% across visits), suggesting the absence of evolving lesions. The relationships between the imaging and clinical variables were weak (median Spearman ρ = 0.10). The study did not replicate the results of a previously published investigation of AHIs.
Conclusions and Relevance In this exploratory neuroimaging study, there were no significant differences in imaging measures of brain structure or function between individuals reporting AHIs and matched control participants after adjustment for multiple comparisons.
Open access paper: https://jamanetwork.com/
Exposure to blue light at bedtime, suppresses melatonin secretion, postponing the sleep onset and interrupting the sleep process. Some smartphone manufacturers have introduced night-mode functions, which have been claimed to aid in improving sleep quality. In this study, we evaluate the impact of blue light filter application on decreasing blue light emissions and improving sleep quality. Participants in this study recorded the pattern of using their mobile phones through a questionnaire. In order to evaluate sleep quality, we used a PSQI questionnaire. Blue light filters were used by 9.7% of respondents, 9.7% occasionally, and 80% never. The mean score of PSQI was more than 5 in 54.10% of the participants and less than 5 in 45.90%. ANOVA test was performed to assess the relationship between using blue light filter applications and sleep quality (p-value = 0.925). The findings of this study indicate a connection between the use of blue light filter apps and habitual sleep efficiency in the 31–40 age group. However, our results align only to some extent with prior research, as we did not observe sustained positive effects on all parameters of sleep quality from the long-term use of blue light filtering apps. Several studies have found that blue light exposure can suppress melatonin secretion, exacerbating sleep problems. Some studies have reported that physical blue light filters, such as lenses, can affect melatonin secretion and improve sleep quality. However, the impact of blue light filtering applications remains unclear and debatable.
Plain Language Summary
Using smartphones before bedtime and being exposed to its blue light can make it harder to fall asleep and disrupt your sleep. Some smartphone makers have introduced a night mode feature claiming it can help improve your sleep. In this study, we wanted to find out if using these blue light filters on smartphones really makes a difference. We asked people how often they used blue light filters on their phones and also had them fill out a questionnaire about their sleep quality. Only about 10% of people said they used blue light filters regularly, another 10% used them occasionally, and the majority, around 80%, never used them. When we looked at the results, more than half of the participants had sleep scores higher than 5, indicating they might have sleep problems. Less than half had sleep scores lower than 5, suggesting better sleep quality. We used some statistical tests to see if using blue light filters had any link to sleep quality, and the results showed that there was only a connection between the use of blue light filter apps and habitual sleep efficiency in the 31–40 age group. Our findings matched what other studies have found before, that using blue light filters on smartphones may not significantly help improve sleep. So, while it might be a good idea to limit smartphone use before bed, using a blue light filter app may not be the magic solution for better sleep.
Several human studies indicate that mobile phone specific electromagnetic fields may cause cancer in humans but the underlying molecular mechanisms are currently not known. Studies concerning chromosomal damage (which is causally related to cancer induction) are controversial and are based on the use of questionnaires to assess the exposure. We realized the first human intervention trial in which chromosomal damage and acute toxic effects were studied under controlled conditions. The participants were exposed via headsets at one randomly assigned side of the head to low and high doses of a UMTS signal (n = 20, to 0.1 W/kg and n = 21 to 1.6 W/kg Specific Absorption Rate) for 2h on 5 consecutive days. Before and three weeks after the exposure buccal cells were collected from both cheeks and micronuclei (MN, which are formed as a consequence of structural and numerical chromosomal aberrations) and other nuclear anomalies reflecting mitotic disturbance and acute cytotoxic effects were scored. We found no evidence for induction of MN and of nuclear buds which are caused by gene amplifications, but a significant increase of binucleated cells which are formed as a consequence of disturbed cell divisions, and of karyolitic cells, which are indicative for cell death. No such effects were seen in cells from the less exposed side. Our findings indicate that mobile phone specific high frequency electromagnetic fields do not cause acute chromosomal damage in oral mucosa cells under the present experimental conditions. However, we found clear evidence for disturbance of the cell cycle and cytotoxicity. These effects may play a causal role in the induction of adverse long term health effects in humans.
Final paragraph of paper:
As mentioned in the introduction, evidence is accumulating that exposure to HF-EMF is associated with specific brain tumors (Brabant et al., 2023; Carlberg et al., 2017; Coureau et al., 2014; Hardell and Carlberg, 2015; Hardell et al., 2013; IARC, 2013; INTERPHONE Study Group, 2010). The results of the present investigation indicate that molecular mechanisms other than chromosomal damage may cause neoplastic transformation of the cells as a consequence of exposure to mobile phone specific HF-EMF. As described in the result section, we found in the present study clear evidence for induction of acute toxicity and disturbance of the cell cycle (cytokinesis) as a consequence of exposure to a high radiation dose (1.6 W/kg). It is possible that these effects cause inflammatory responses and/or release of ROS, which were seen in a number of laboratory studies (e.g. Alipour et al., 2022; Benavides et al., 2023; IARC, 2013; Yakymenko et al., 2016). These processes may possibly lead to formation of neoplastic cells.
Abstract
Objective: The aim was to compare neonatal outcomes according to cell phone specific absorption rate (SAR) levels and daily time spent on cell phones by pregnant women.
Material and methods: Women who gave birth at Konya City Hospital between September 2020 and February 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Gestational ages, birth weight, birth length, head circumference, sex, 5-minute APGAR scores, neonate postpartum resuscitation requirement, delivery type, the model of phone used by the pregnant women, and the average time spent on the phone during a day were recorded. To determine the relation between the SAR values of the phones used and delivering a small for gestational age (SGA) baby, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed.
Results: In total 1495 pregnant women were included. The rate of delivering a SGA fetus was significantly higher in women who used phones with higher SAR values (p=0.001). The cut-off value for the SAR level was 1.23 W/kg with 69.3% sensitivity and 73.0% specificity (area under the curve: 0.685; 95% confidence interval: 0.643-0.726). No correlation was found between time spent on the phone and SGA birth rate. Although both phone SAR values and time spent on the phone were higher in the symmetrical SGA group compared to the asymmetrical SGA group, the difference was not significant (p>0.05). Although the women who had preterm delivery had higher phone SAR values and had spent more time on the phone compared to those who had term deliveries, the difference was again not significant (p>0.05).
Conclusion: As the SAR values of cell phones used during pregnancy increased, there was a trend towards delivering a SGA baby.
Open access paper: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Objective: Not much is known on the development of symptoms associated with environmental factors (SAEF), also known as (idiopathic) environmental intolerances. Findings from qualitative studies suggest that appearance of symptoms might be the first step, followed by the acquisition of a specific attribution. The current study investigated cross-sectional and longitudinal (three years) associations between attribution and symptoms with respect to symptoms associated with chemical substances, certain indoor environments (buildings), sounds, and electromagnetic fields (EMFs).
Methods: We used data from the first two waves of the population-based Västerbotten Environmental Health Study (n = 2336). Participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire Somatic Symptom Scale (PHQ-15), the Environmental Symptom-Attribution Scale, and answered single questions on the four aforementioned SAEFs.
Results: Using binary logistic regression analyses, all four SAEFs showed significant cross-sectional associations with somatic symptom distress and the respective attribution. In the longitudinal analysis, development of SAEF-Sound and SAEF-Chemicals were predicted by both somatic symptom distress and attribution. SAEF-EMFs was predicted only by attribution, whereas neither somatic symptom distress nor attribution forecasted SAEF-Buildings.
Conclusion: Overall, these findings suggest that attribution (i.e., a specific expectation) plays a substantial role in the development and maintenance of many SAEFs.
Background: A knowledge gap exists regarding longitudinal assessment of personal radio-frequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposures globally. It is unclear how the change in telecommunication technology over the years translates to change in RF-EMF exposure. This study aims to evaluate longitudinal trends of micro-environmental personal RF-EMF exposures in Australia.
Methods: The study utilised baseline (2015-16) and follow-up (2022) data on personal RF-EMF exposure (88 MHz-6 GHz) measured across 18 micro-environments in Melbourne. Simultaneous quantile regression analysis was conducted to compare exposure data distribution percentiles, particularly median (P50), upper extreme value (P99) and overall exposure trends. RF-EMF exposures were compared across six exposure source types: mobile downlink, mobile uplink, broadcast, 5G-New Radio, Others and Total (of the aforementioned sources). Frequency-specific exposures measured at baseline and follow-up were also compared. Total exposure across different groups of micro-environment types were also compared.
Results: For all micro-environmental data, total (median and P99) exposure levels did not significantly change at follow-up. Overall exposure trend of total exposure increased at follow-up. Mobile downlink contributed the highest exposure among all sources showing an increase in median exposure and overall exposure trend. Of seven micro-environment types, five of them showed total exposure levels (median and P99) and overall exposure trend increased at follow-up.
The assessment of change in total personal RF-EMF exposure distribution at follow-up across all micro-environments and those for different micro-environment types showed inconsistent changes in the exposure levels and overall exposure trend. The median and upper extreme total RF-EMF exposure levels across the micro-environments showed no significant change; whilst overall trend of total exposure at follow-up increased during the study period. Mobile downlink, the largest exposure source, median exposure and overall exposure trend increased (26.7%, up to 34.3%, respectively) at follow-up. The observed increase in median and upper extreme exposure levels as well as overall total exposure trend at follow-up remained consistent for the majority of micro-environment types.
Abstract
Introduction: Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) functions are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from electromagnetic fields (EMF). Data on EMI risks from new-generation electronic appliances (EA) are limited.
Objective: We performed a systematic literature review on the mechanisms of EMI, current evidence, and recently published trials evaluating the effect of EMF on CIEDs from electric vehicles (EV), smartphone, and smartwatch technology and summarize its safety data.
Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed and EMBASE, were searched for in vivo studies evaluating EMF strength and incidence between CIEDs and commercial EVs, new-generation smartphones, and new-generation smartwatches.
Results: A total of ten studies (three on EVs, five on smartphones, one on smartphones, one on smartphones and smartwatches) were included in our systematic review. There was no report of EMI incidence associated with EVs or smartwatches. Magnet-containing smartphones (iPhone 12) can cause EMI when placed directly over CIEDs - thereby triggering the magnet mode; otherwise, no report of EMI was observed with other positions or smartphone models.
Conclusion: Current evidence suggests CIED recipients are safe from general interaction with EVs/HEVs, smartphones, and smartwatches. Strictly, results may only be applied to commercial brands or models tested in the published studies. There is limited data on EMI risk from EVs wireless charging and smartphones with MagSafe technology.
Abstract
Background: The health impacts of the rapid transition to the use of electric vehicles are largely unexplored. We completed a scoping review to assess the state of the evidence on use of battery electric and hybrid electric vehicles and health.
Methods: We conducted a literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, CINAHL, Scopus, and Environmental Science Collection databases for articles published January 1990 to January 2024. We included articles if they presented observed or modeled data on the association between battery electric or hybrid electric cars, trucks, or buses and health-related outcomes. We abstracted data and summarized results.
Results: Out of 897 reviewed articles, 52 met our inclusion criteria. The majority of included articles examined transitions to the use of electric vehicles (n = 49, 94%), with fewer studies examining hybrid electric vehicles (n = 11, 21%) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (n = 8, 15%). The most common outcomes examined were premature death (n = 41, 79%) and monetized health outcomes such as medical expenditures (n = 33, 63%). We identified only one observational study on the impact of electric vehicles on health; all other studies reported modeled data. Almost every study (n = 51, 98%) reported some evidence of a positive health impact of transitioning to electric or hybrid electric vehicles, although magnitudes of association varied. There was a paucity of information on the environmental justice implications of vehicle transitions.
Conclusions: The results of the current literature on electric vehicles and health suggest an overall positive health impact of transitioning to electric vehicles. Additional observational studies would help expand our understanding of the real-world health effects of electric vehicles. Future research focused on the environmental justice implications of vehicle fleet transitions could provide additional information about the extent to which the health benefits occur equitably across populations.
Abstract
Background: The present study aims to determine the possible low dose-dependent adverse effects of 2.45 GHz microwave exposure and Wi-Fi frequency on the cochlea.
Methods: Twelve pregnant female rats (n=12) and their male newborns were exposed to Wi-Fi frequencies with varying electric field values of 0.6, 1.9, 5, 10 V/m, and 15 V/m during the 21-day gestation period and 45 days after birth, except for the control group. Auditory brainstem response testing was performed before exposure and sacrification. After removal of the cochlea, histopathological examination was conducted by immunohistochemistry methods using caspase (cysteine-aspartic proteases, cysteine aspartates, or cysteine-dependent aspartate-directed proteases)-3, -9, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests and multivariate analysis of variance were used.
Results: Auditory brainstem response thresholds in postexposure tests increased statistically significantly at 5 V/m and above doses. When the number of apoptotic cells was compared in immunohistochemistry examination, significant differences were found at 10 V/m and 15 V/m doses (F(5,15)=23.203, P=.001; Pillai's trace=1.912, η2=0.637). As the magnitude of the electric field increased, all histopathological indicators of apoptosis increased. The most significant effect was noted on caspase-9 staining (η2 c9=0.996), followed by caspase-3 (η2 c3=0.991), and TUNEL staining (η2 t=0.801). Caspase-3, caspase-9, and TUNEL-stained cell densities increased directly by increasing the electric field and power values.
Conclusion: Apoptosis and immune activity in the cochlea depend on the electric field and power value. Even at low doses, the electromagnetic field in Wi-Fi frequency damages the inner ear and causes apoptosis.
Microwave radiation (MWR) has been linked to neurodegeneration by inducing oxidative stress in the hippocampus of brain responsible for learning and memory. Ashwagandha (ASW), a medicinal plant is known to prevent neurodegeneration and promote neuronal health. This study investigated the effects of MWR and ASW on oxidative stress and cholinergic imbalance in the hippocampus of adult male Japanese quail. One control group received no treatment, the second group quails were exposed to MWR at 2 h/day for 30 days, third was administered with ASW root extract orally 100 mg/day/kg body weight and the fourth was exposed to MWR and also treated with ASW. The results showed that MWR increased serum corticosterone levels, disrupted cholinergic balance and induced neuro-inflammation. This neuro-inflammation further led to oxidative stress, as evidenced by decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT and GSH. MWR also caused a significant decline in the nissil substances in the hippocampus region of brain indicating neurodegeneration through oxidative stress mediated hippocampal apoptosis. ASW, on the other hand, was able to effectively enhance the cholinergic balance and subsequently lower inflammation in hippocampus neurons. This suggests that ASW can protect against the neurodegenerative effects of MWR. ASW also reduced excessive ROS production by increasing the activity of ROS-scavenging enzymes. Additionally, ASW prevented neurodegeneration through decreased expression of caspase-3 and caspase-7 in hippocampus, thus promoting neuronal health. In conclusion, this study showed that MWR induces apoptosis and oxidative stress in the brain, while ASW reduces excessive ROS production, prevents neurodegeneration and promotes neuronal health.
Effects of pre/postnatal 2.45 GHz continuous wave (CW), Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi) Microwave (MW) irradiation on bone have yet to be well defined. The present study used biochemical and histological methods to investigate effects on bone formation and resorption in the serum and the tibia bone tissues of growing rats exposed to MW irradiation during the pre/postnatal period. Six groups were created: one control group and five experimental groups subjected to low-level different electromagnetic fields (EMF) of growing male rats born from pregnant rats. During the experiment, the bodies of all five groups were exposed to 2.45 GHz CW-MW for one hour/day. EMF exposure started after fertilization in the experimental group. When the growing male rats were 45 days old in the postnatal period, the control and five experimental groups' growing male and maternal rats were sacrificed, and their tibia tissues were removed. Maternal rats were not included in the study. No differences were observed between the control and five experimental groups in Receptor Activator Nuclear factor-kB (RANK) biochemical results. In contrast, there was a statistically significant increase in soluble Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor-kB Ligand (sRANKL) and Osteoprotegerin (OPG) for 10 V/m and 15 V/m EMF values. Histologically, changes in the same groups supported biochemical results. These results indicate that pre/postnatal exposure to 2.45 GHz EMF at 10 and 15 V/m potentially affects bone development.
Excerpt
In the present study, the effects of 2.45 GHz MW radiation on the bone of healthy rat tibia exposed to different doses of EMF during the prenatal and postnatal period were investigated using biochemical methods such as RANK, RANKL, OPG, and histopathological methods such as Tunel and immunohistochemical straining. Our findings showed that 2.45 GHz low-level MW radiation at 10 V/m (the peak SAR 10g value 14.4 mW/kg) and 15 V/m (the peak SAR 10g value 33.8 mW/kg) could cause changes in the bone. To our knowledge, our study seems to be the first investigation in literature focusing on effects on the bone of 2.45 GHz low-level MW radiation at different EMF values. Additionally, this research is the first article to determine the level of thermal and non-thermal effects on bone.
This study investigated the potential effects on the hippocampus of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) disseminated by mobile phones and the roles of baobab (Adansonia digitata) (AD) and black seed (Nigella sativa) (BS) in mitigating these. Fifty-six male, 12-week-old Wistar albino rats were divided into eight groups of seven animals each. No EMF exposure was applied to the control, AD or BS groups, while the rats in the Sham group were placed in an EMF system with no exposure. A 900-MHz EMF was applied to the EMF+AD, EMF+BS, EMF+AD+BS and EMF groups for 1 hour a day for 28 days. Pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus were subsequently counted using the optical fractionator technique, one of the unbiased stereological methods. Tissue sections were also evaluated histopathologically under light and electron microscopy. The activities of the enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were also determined in blood serum samples. Analysis of the stereological data revealed no statistically significant differences between the EMF and control or sham groups in terms of pyramidal neuron numbers (p>0.05). However, stereological examination revealed a crucial difference in the entire hippocampus between the control group and the AD (p<0.01) and BS (p<0.05) groups. Moreover, exposure to 900-MHz EMF produced adverse changes in the structures of neurons at histopathological analysis. Qualitative examinations suggest that a combination of herbal products such as AD and BS exerts a protective effect against such EMF side-effects.
We suggest that using appropriate quantities of natural antioxidants in combination with foodstuffs can inhibit or reduce the harmful effects of EMF radiation on the neurons of the brain. The human population, and especially children, should also be protected against exposure to radiation, especially that emitted from mobile phones. To the best of our knowledge, no prior study has demonstrated the effect of AD and BS in the EMF exposed rat hippocampus. Further studies focusing on the effect mechanism of antioxidants, especially AD and BS, that may represent novel protective substances against the side-effects of EMF radiation in the hippocampus, are now needed. Research involving different methods, durations and doses is therefore required.
Navarrete-Meneses MdP, Salas-Labadía C, Gómez-Chávez F, Pérez-Vera P. Environmental Pollution and Risk of Childhood Cancer: A Scoping Review of Evidence from the Last Decade. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2024; 25(6):3284. doi: 10.3390/ijms25063284.
Zhao X, Li Z, Liu X, Wang Y, Dong G, Liu Q, Wang C. A broadband multi-frequency microwave combined biological exposure setup. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 1 April 2024; 95 (4): 044702. doi: 10.1063/5.0196908
Abstract
With the rapid popularization of wireless electronic devices, there has
been an increasing concern about the impacts of the electromagnetic
environment on health. However, most research reports on the biological
effects of microwaves have focused on a single frequency point. In
reality, people are exposed to complex electromagnetic environments that
consist of multiple frequency microwave signals in their daily lives.
It is important to investigate whether multi-frequency combined
microwave energies have different biological effects compared with
single frequency microwave energy. Unfortunately, there are limited
reports on this topic due to the lack of suitable platforms for research
on multi-frequency microwave energy combined with biological exposure.
To address this issue, this study presents a setup that has a very wide
working frequency bandwidth and can be compatible with single frequency
and multi-frequency microwave combined exposure. Moreover, it can
achieve relatively equal exposure to multiple biological samples at any
frequency point in the working frequency range, which is crucial for
electromagnetic biology research. The experimental results are in good
agreement with the simulation results, confirming its capability to
facilitate the study of complex electromagnetic environment effects on
organisms.
Open access paper: https://pubs.aip.org/aip/rsi/
