1
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Liu S, Tobita K, Onishi T, Taki M, Watanabe S. Electromagnetic field exposure monitoring of commercial 28-GHz band 5G base stations in Tokyo, Japan. Bioelectromagnetics 2024. [PMID: 38778514 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Fifth generation (5G) wireless communication is being rolled out around the world. In this work, the latest radio frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure measurement results on commercial 28-GHz band 5G base stations (BSs) deployed in the urban area of Tokyo, Japan, are presented. The measurements were conducted under realistic traffic conditions with a 5G smartphone and using both omnidirectional and horn antennas. First and foremost, in all cases, the electric-field (E-field) intensity is much lower (<-38 dB) than the exposure limits. The E-field intensities for traffic-off cases do not show any significant difference between the two antennas with the maximum being 3.6 dB. For traffic-on cases, the omnidirectional antenna can undesirably capture the radio wave from the smartphone in some cases, resulting in a 7-13 dB higher E-field intensity than that using the horn antenna. We also present comparative results between 4G long term evolution BSs and sub-6-GHz band and 28-GHz band 5G BSs and provide recommendations on acquiring meaningful EMF exposure data. This work is a further step toward the standardization of the measurement method regarding quasi-millimeter/millimeter wave 5G BSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Liu
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tobita
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Teruo Onishi
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masao Taki
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soichi Watanabe
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Laboratory, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Calvente I, Núñez MI. Is the sustainability of exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation possible? Med Clin (Barc) 2024; 162:387-393. [PMID: 38151370 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2023.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Technological advances imply an increase in artificially generating sources of electromagnetic fields (EMF), therefore, resulting in a permanent exposure of people and the environment (electromagnetic pollution). Inconsistent results have been published considering the evaluated health effects. The purpose of this study was to review scientific literature on EMF to provide a global and retrospective perspective, on the association between human exposure to non-ionizing radiation (NIR, mainly radiofrequency-EMF) and health and environmental effects. Studies on the health effects of 5G radiation exposure have not yet been performed with sufficient statistical power, as the exposure time is still relatively short and also the latency and intensity of exposure to 5G. The safety standards only consider thermal effects, do not contemplate non-thermal effects. We consider relevant to communicate this knowledge to the general public to improve education in this field, and to healthcare professionals to prevent diseases that may result from RF-EMF exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Calvente
- Research Support Unit, Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University Hospital Complex of Granada, Spain
| | - María Isabel Núñez
- Research Support Unit, Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), University Hospital Complex of Granada, Spain; Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Spain.
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3
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Recuero Virto L, Czerwiński M, Froidevaux J. The determinants of legislation for radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) with the onset of 5G: An empirical analysis with a worldwide cross-sectional dataset. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2024. [PMID: 38556257 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The unprecedented exposure of radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) to humans from mobile communications raises serious public concern about the possibility of unexpected adverse health effects and has stimulated authorities to adopt precautionary exposure limits. These limits are distinctly different across countries, and the causes of these differences are unclear from the literature. This article is the first empirical analysis on the determinants of RF-EMF exposure legislation, using a novel cross-sectional database of 164 countries worldwide. The analysis shows that decentralization and mobile competition in countries with low mobile network deployment tend to promote more stringent RF-EMF exposure limits across the dataset with 164 countries. In more decentralized countries, the regions had a greater influence on national legislation and could accommodate local demands with the advent of mobile technology in the 2000s. In contrast, decentralization and mobile competition in countries with high levels of mobile network deployment tend to relax RF-EMF exposure limits in the sample of 61 countries with fifth-generation (5G) technology. Indeed, restrictive RF-EMF exposure limits are constraining 5G deployment in a context of the widespread adoption of mobile-broadband technologies. These results should be useful for policymakers and mobile operators alike to anticipate the outcome of legislation in countries that have yet to introduce 5G technology. The results should also be useful when reviewing policies and strategies for the implementation of the upcoming 6G technology in frequency bands that will be increasingly higher (above 6 GHz up to THz for very local usage), and hence where the health effects on humans are less well studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Recuero Virto
- Léonard de Vinci Pôle Universitaire, Research Center, Paris La Défense, France
- Economics Departement, École polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
| | - Marek Czerwiński
- Department of Grassland and Natural Landscape Sciences, Poznań University of Life Sciences, ul. Dojazd, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jérémy Froidevaux
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
- Centre d'Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation, Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
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4
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Emre M, Karamazi Y, Emre T, Avci Ç, Aydin C, Ebrahimi S, Pekmezekmek AB. The effect of 6GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on rat pain perception. Electromagn Biol Med 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38521997 DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2024.2331134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
This paper presents data on pain perception in rats exposed to 6 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). Rats were divided into two groups: control (n = 10, 4 replicates per test) and RF-EMR exposed group (n = 10, 4 replicates per test). Nociceptive responses of the groups were measured using rodent analgesiometry. Rats were divided into control and RF-EMR exposed groups. Nociceptive responses were measured using rodent analgesiometry. RF-EMR exposed rats had a 15% delay in responding to hot plate thermal stimulation compared to unexposed rats. The delay in responding to radiant heat thermal stimulation was 21%. We determined that RF-EMR promoted the occurrence of pressure pain as statistical significance by + 42% (p < 0.001). We observed that RF-EMR exposure increased nociceptive pain by + 35% by promoting cold plate stimulation (p < 0.05). RF-EMR exposure did not affect thermal preference as statistical significance but did support the formation of pressure pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Emre
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Yasin Karamazi
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Toygar Emre
- Department of Industry, Faculty of Engineering, Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Çağrı Avci
- Department of Virology, Ceyhan Veterinary Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Cagatay Aydin
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye
| | - Sonia Ebrahimi
- Department of Electrical-Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, Izmir, Türkiye
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5
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Torres-Ruiz M, Suárez OJ, López V, Marina P, Sanchis A, Liste I, de Alba M, Ramos V. Effects of 700 and 3500 MHz 5G radiofrequency exposure on developing zebrafish embryos. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:169475. [PMID: 38199355 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Telecommunications industries are rapidly deploying the fifth generation (5G) spectrum and there is public concern about the safety and health impacts of this type of Radio Frequency Radiation (RFR), in part because of the lack of comparable scientific evidence. In this study we have used a validated commercially available setting producing a uniform field to expose zebrafish embryos (ZFe) to unmodulated 700 and 3500 MHz frequencies. We have combined a battery of toxicity, developmental and behavioral assays to further explore potential RFR effects. Our neurobehavioral profiles include a tail coiling assay, a light/dark activity assay, two thigmotaxis anxiety assays (auditory and visual stimuli), and a startle response - habituation assay in response to auditory stimuli. ZFe were exposed for 1 and 4 h during the blastula period of development and endpoints evaluated up to 120 hours post fertilization (hpf). Our results show no effects on mortality, hatching or body length. However, we have demonstrated specific organ morphological effects, and behavioral effects in activity, anxiety-like behavior, and habituation that lasted in larvae exposed during the early embryonic period. A decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity was also observed and could explain some of the observed behavioral alterations. Interestingly, effects were more pronounced in ZFe exposed to the 700 MHz frequency, and especially for the 4 h exposure period. In addition, we have demonstrated that our exposure setup is robust, flexible with regard to frequency and power testing, and highly comparable. Future work will include exposure of ZFe to 5G modulated signals for different time periods to better understand the potential health effects of novel 5G RFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Torres-Ruiz
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Oscar J Suárez
- Radio Frequency Laboratory, Telecommunications General Secretary and Audiovisual Communication Services Ordenation, Madrid, Spain
| | - Victoria López
- Chronical Diseases Research Functional Unit (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Pablo Marina
- Telemedicine and eHealth Research Unit, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sanchis
- Non-Ionizing Radiation Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Isabel Liste
- Chronical Diseases Research Functional Unit (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Mercedes de Alba
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Victoria Ramos
- Telemedicine and eHealth Research Unit, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Avda. Monforte de Lemos, 5, Madrid 28029, Spain.
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Foroughimehr N, Wood A, McKenzie R, Karipidis K, Yavari A. Design and Implementation of a Specialised Millimetre-Wave Exposure System for Investigating the Radiation Effects of 5G and Future Technologies. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:1516. [PMID: 38475053 DOI: 10.3390/s24051516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
As the fifth-generation (5G) network is introduced in the millimetre-wave (mmWave) spectrum, and the widespread deployment of 5G standalone (SA) is approaching, it becomes essential to establish scientifically grounded exposure limits in the mmWave frequency band. To achieve this, conducting experiments at specific frequencies is crucial for obtaining reliable evidence of potential biological impacts. However, there is a literature gap where experimental research either does not utilise the mmWave high band (e.g., the 26 Gigahertz (GHz) band) or most studies mainly rely on computational approaches. Moreover, some experimental studies do not establish reproducible test environment and exposure systems. Addressing these gaps is vital for a comprehensive exploration of the biological implications associated with mmWave exposure. This study was designed to develop and implement a mmWave exposure system operating at 26 GHz. The step-by-step design and development of the system are explained. This specialised system was designed and implemented within an anechoic chamber to minimise external electromagnetic (EM) interference, creating a controlled and reproducible environment for experiments involving high-frequency EM fields. The exposure system features a 1 cm radiation spot size, enabling highly localised exposure for various biological studies. This configuration facilitates numerous dosimetry studies related to mmWave frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negin Foroughimehr
- 6G Research and Innovation Lab, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Andrew Wood
- 6G Research and Innovation Lab, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Ray McKenzie
- 6G Research and Innovation Lab, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
| | - Ken Karipidis
- 6G Research and Innovation Lab, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), Melbourne, VIC 3085, Australia
| | - Ali Yavari
- 6G Research and Innovation Lab, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
- School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia
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7
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Ben Ishai P, Davis D, Taylor H, Birnbaum L. Problems in evaluating the health impacts of radio frequency radiation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 243:115038. [PMID: 36863648 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In an effort to clarify the nature of causal evidence regarding the potential impacts of RFR on biological systems, this paper relies on a well-established framework for considering causation expanded from that of Bradford Hill, that combines experimental and epidemiological evidence on carcinogenesis of RFR. The Precautionary Principle, while not perfect, has been the effective lodestone for establishing public policy to guard the safety of the general public from potentially harmful materials, practices or technologies. Yet, when considering the exposure of the public to anthropogenic electromagnetic fields, especially those arising from mobile communications and their infrastructure, it seems to be ignored. The current exposure standards recommended by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) consider only thermal effects (tissue heating) as potentially harmful. However, there is mounting evidence of non-thermal effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation in biological systems and human populations. We review the latest literature on in vitro and in vivo studies, on clinical studies on electromagnetic hypersensitivity, as well as the epidemiological evidence for cancer due to the action of mobile based radiation exposure. We question whether the current regulatory atmosphere truly serves the public good when considered in terms of the Precautionary Principle and the principles for deducing causation established by Bradford Hill. We conclude that there is substantial scientific evidence that RFR causes cancer, endocrinological, neurological and other adverse health effects. In light of this evidence the primary mission of public bodies, such as the FCC to protect public health has not been fulfilled. Rather, we find that industry convenience is being prioritized and thereby subjecting the public to avoidable risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ben Ishai
- Department of Physics, Ariel University, Ariel, 4070000, Israel.
| | - Devra Davis
- Environmental Health Trust, Washington, DC, 20002, USA; School of Medicine,Ondokuz-Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Hugh Taylor
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 05620, USA
| | - Linda Birnbaum
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
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8
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Wang X, Zhou G, Lin J, Qin T, Du J, Guo L, Lai P, Jing Y, Zhang Z, Zhou Y, Ding G. Effects of radiofrequency field from 5G communication on fecal microbiome and metabolome profiles in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3571. [PMID: 38347014 PMCID: PMC10861445 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53842-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of 5G networks, the influence of the radiofrequency field (RF) generated from 5G communication equipment on human health is drawing increasing attention in public. The study aimed at assessing the effects of long-term exposure to 4.9 GHz (one of the working frequencies of 5G communication) RF field on fecal microbiome and metabolome profiles in adult male C57BL/6 mice. The animals were divided into Sham group and radiofrequency group (RF group). For RF group, the mice were whole body exposed to 4.9 GHz RF field for three weeks, 1 h/d, at average power density (PD) of 50 W/m2. After RF exposure, the mice fecal samples were collected to detect gut microorganisms and metabolites by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and LC-MS method, respectively. The results showed that intestinal microbial compositions were altered in RF group, as evidenced by reduced microbial diversity and changed microbial community distribution. Metabolomics profiling identified 258 significantly differentially abundant metabolites in RF group, 57 of which can be classified to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Besides, functional correlation analysis showed that changes in gut microbiota genera were significantly correlated with changes in fecal metabolites. In summary, the results suggested that altered gut microbiota and metabolic profile are associated with 4.9 GHz radiofrequency exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wang
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Guiqiang Zhou
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
- School of Public Health, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jiajin Lin
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Tongzhou Qin
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Junze Du
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Ling Guo
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Panpan Lai
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuntao Jing
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhaowen Zhang
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China.
| | - Guirong Ding
- Department of Radiation Protection Medicine, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
- Ministry of Education Key Lab of Hazard Assessment and Control in Special Operational Environment, Xi'an, China.
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9
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Weller S, McCredden JE. Understanding the public voices and researchers speaking into the 5G narrative. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1339513. [PMID: 38283297 PMCID: PMC10820716 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1339513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The many different voices speaking into the current narrative surrounding the health effects of 5G technologies necessitate an exploration of the background of the various published author-spokespersons and their potential motives. This has been attempted recently by de Vocht and Albers. However, that opinion piece used a narrow investigative lens, resulting in an undermining of both the rationality of the concerned general public and the motives of specific researchers. At the same time, biases, conflicts of interest, and flaws found in "independent" reviews were not considered. To address these oversights, an evidence-based appraisal of public opinion and the scientific caliber of authors involved in the 5G health discussion is warranted. Subsequently, this review article presents an analysis of the available Australian data representing public voices, while also conducting a broader investigation of the level of expertise of recent author-spokespersons based on their experience as scientists, particularly in the area of health effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. This review thus attempts to more clearly illustrate for the reader the caliber and motives of the voices speaking into the 5G narrative. The article concludes with a set of questions that need to be answered to enable scientists to advise policy makers more effectively on matters of 5G and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Weller
- Centre for Environmental and Population Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association Inc. (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, Australia
| | - Julie E. McCredden
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association Inc. (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, Australia
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10
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Agrawal V, Agrawal S, Bomanwar A, Dubey T, Jaiswal A. Exploring the Risks, Benefits, Advances, and Challenges in Internet Integration in Medicine With the Advent of 5G Technology: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e48767. [PMID: 38098915 PMCID: PMC10719543 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The integration of 5G technology in the healthcare sector is poised to bring about transformative changes, offering numerous advantages such as enhanced telemedicine services, expedited data transfer for medical records, improved remote surgery capabilities, real-time monitoring and diagnostics, advancements in wearable medical devices, and the potential for precision medicine. However, this technological shift is not without its concerns, including potential health implications related to 5G radiation exposure, heightened cybersecurity risks for medical devices and data systems, potential system failures due to technology dependence, and privacy issues linked to data breaches in healthcare. We are striking a balance between harnessing these benefits and addressing the associated risks. Achieving this equilibrium requires the establishment of a robust regulatory framework, ongoing research into the health impacts of 5G radiation, the implementation of stringent cybersecurity measures, education and training for healthcare professionals, and the development of ethical standards. The future of 5G in the medical field holds immense promise, but success depends on our ability to navigate this evolving landscape while prioritizing patient safety, privacy, and ethical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Agrawal
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Suyash Agrawal
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Aarya Bomanwar
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Tanishq Dubey
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Arpita Jaiswal
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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11
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Yaghmazadeh O, Schoenhardt S, Sarabandi A, Sabet A, Sabet K, Safari F, Alon L, Buzsáki G. In-vivo measurement of radio frequency electric fields in mice brain. BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS: X 2023; 14:100328. [PMID: 37649960 PMCID: PMC10465067 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosx.2023.100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
With the development of novel technologies, radio frequency (RF) energy exposure is expanding at various wavelengths and power levels. These developments necessitate updated approaches of RF measurements in complex environments, particularly in live biological tissue. Accurate dosimetry of the absorbed RF electric fields (E-Fields) by the live tissue is the keystone of environmental health considerations for this type of ever-growing non-ionizing radiation energy. In this study, we introduce a technique for direct in-vivo measurement of electric fields in living tissue. Proof of principle in-vivo electric field measurements were conducted in rodent brains using Bismuth Silicon Oxide (BSO) crystals exposed to varying levels of RF energy. Electric field measurements were calibrated and verified using in-vivo temperature measurements using optical temperature fibers alongside electromagnetic field simulations of a transverse electromagnetic (TEM) cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid Yaghmazadeh
- Neuroscience Institute, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Seth Schoenhardt
- EMAG Technologies Inc., 775 Technology Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Arya Sarabandi
- EMAG Technologies Inc., 775 Technology Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Ali Sabet
- EMAG Technologies Inc., 775 Technology Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Kazem Sabet
- EMAG Technologies Inc., 775 Technology Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, USA
| | - Fatemeh Safari
- Department of Radiology, and School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Leeor Alon
- Department of Radiology, and School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - György Buzsáki
- Neuroscience Institute, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, 10016, USA
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12
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Durham AR, Tooker EL, Patel NS, Gurgel RK. Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Development of Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2023; 56:413-420. [PMID: 37019771 DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) are benign, slow-growing tumors of the eighth cranial nerve. Sporadic unilateral VSs constitute approximately 95% of all newly diagnosed tumors. There is little known about risk factors for developing sporadic unilateral VS. Potential risk factors that have been reported are familial or genetic risk, noise exposure, cell phone use, and ionizing radiation, whereas protective factors may include smoking and aspirin use. More research is needed to elucidate the risk factors for development of these rare tumors.
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Lin JC. Incongruities in recently revised radiofrequency exposure guidelines and standards. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 222:115369. [PMID: 36706903 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The currently promulgated RF exposure guidelines and standards cover the entire range of RF radiation and apply predominantly to restrict RF-induced short-term heating and in guarding against raising tissue temperatures, including the 5G frequencies. There are substantial abnormalities in these putative health safety protection guidelines and standards. Some of the safety limits are irrelevant, debatable, and absent of scientific justification from the standpoint of safety and public health protection. Also, the cellular mobile 5G technology is hailed as a speedier and more secure wireless communication technology than its predecessor systems. The key supporting architecture uses millimeter-wave (mm-wave) and antenna array technology to achieve better directivity, lower latency, and elevated data transmission rates. For radiation protection, it is not obvious whether the health effects of 5G mm-wave radiations would be analogous or not to radiations from previous generations (which was classified as possibly carcinogenic in humans by IARC). The interaction of mm-waves with the structure and function of pertinent cellular elements and cutaneous neuroreceptors in the skin are of special concern. The current scientific database is inadequate at mm wavelengths to render a trustworthy appraisal or to reach a judgment with confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Lin
- Departments of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Bioengineering, Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois Chicago, 851 S. Morgan St. (M/C 154), Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
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14
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The implications of 5G technology on cardiothoracic surgical services in India. Indian J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2023; 39:150-159. [PMID: 36721459 PMCID: PMC9880931 DOI: 10.1007/s12055-022-01448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The fifth-generation (5G) technology is finally making its long-anticipated arrival in India, where it has evoked much hope to advance healthcare accessibility and delivery to the masses as well as improving patient safety and efficiency. The 5G technology standard for broadband and cellular networks comes with improved coverage capability; better throughput, speed, bandwidth, and signal strength; and low latency. Such salient-advanced features could be the knight in shining armor for the cardiothoracic surgical community in bridging gaps in perioperative care, outreach, education, research, and much more.
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15
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McCredden JE, Weller S, Leach V. The assumption of safety is being used to justify the rollout of 5G technologies. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1058454. [PMID: 36815158 PMCID: PMC9940636 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1058454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julie E. McCredden
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association Inc. (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, Australia
| | - Steven Weller
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association Inc. (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, Australia,Centre for Environmental and Population Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Victor Leach
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association Inc. (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, Australia,*Correspondence: Victor Leach ✉
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16
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Prasad D, Kudva V, Singh A, Hegde RB, Rukmini PG. Role of 5G Networks in Healthcare Management System. Crit Rev Biomed Eng 2023; 51:1-25. [PMID: 37602445 DOI: 10.1615/critrevbiomedeng.2023047013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
The present-day healthcare system operates on a 4G network, where the data rate needed for many IoT devices is impossible. Also, the latency involved in the network does not support the use of many devices in the network. The 5G-based cellular technology promises an effective healthcare management system with high speed and low latency. The 5G communication technology will replace the 4G technology to satisfy the increasing demand for high data rates. It incorporates higher frequency bands of around 100 MHz using millimetre waves and broadband modulation schemes. It is aimed at providing low latency while supporting real-time machine-to-machine communication. It requires a more significant number of antennas, with an average base station density three times higher than 4G. However, the rise in circuit and processing power for multiple antennas and transceivers deteriorates energy efficiency. Also, the data transmission power for 5G is three times higher than for 4G technology. One of the advanced processors used in today's mobile equipment is NVIDIA Tegra, which has a multicore system on chip (SoC) architecture with two ARM Cortex CPU cores to handle audio, images, and video. The state-of-the-art software coding using JAVA or Python has achieved smooth data transmission from mobile equipment, desktop or laptop through the internet with the support of 5G communication technology. This paper discusses some key areas related to 5G-based healthcare systems such as the architecture, antenna designs, power consumption, file protocols, security, and health implications of 5G networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Prasad
- NITTE (Deemed to be University), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte - 574110, Karnataka, India
| | - Vidya Kudva
- NITTE (Deemed to be University), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte - 574110, Karnataka, India
| | - Ashish Singh
- NITTE (Deemed to be University), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte - 574110, Karnataka, India
| | - Roopa B Hegde
- NITTE (Deemed to be University), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte - 574110, Karnataka, India
| | - Pradyumna Gopalakrishna Rukmini
- NITTE (Deemed to be University), Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte - 574110, Karnataka, India
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17
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Weller S, May M, McCredden J, Leach V, Phung D, Belyaev I. Comment on "5G mobile networks and health-a state-of-the-science review of the research into low-level RF fields above 6 GHz" by Karipidis et al. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 33:17-20. [PMID: 36434135 PMCID: PMC9849131 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-022-00497-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Weller
- Centre for Environmental and Population Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia.
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, 4020, Australia.
| | - Murray May
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, 4020, Australia
| | - Julie McCredden
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, 4020, Australia
| | - Victor Leach
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Scarborough, QLD, 4020, Australia
| | - Dung Phung
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Igor Belyaev
- Department of Radiobiology, Cancer Research Institute, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, 845 05, Slovak Republic
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18
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McCredden JE, Cook N, Weller S, Leach V. Wireless technology is an environmental stressor requiring new understanding and approaches in health care. Front Public Health 2022; 10:986315. [PMID: 36605238 PMCID: PMC9809975 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.986315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Electromagnetic signals from everyday wireless technologies are an ever-present environmental stressor, affecting biological systems. In this article, we substantiate this statement based on the weight of evidence from papers collated within the ORSAA database (ODEB), focusing on the biological and health effects of electromagnetic fields and radiation. More specifically, the experiments investigating exposures from real-world devices and the epidemiology studies examining the effects of living near mobile phone base stations were extracted from ODEB and the number of papers showing effects was compared with the number showing no effects. The results showed that two-thirds of the experimental and epidemiological papers found significant biological effects. The breadth of biological and health categories where effects have been found was subsequently explored, revealing hundreds of papers showing fundamental biological processes that are impacted, such as protein damage, biochemical changes and oxidative stress. This understanding is targeted toward health professionals and policy makers who have not been exposed to this issue during training. To inform this readership, some of the major biological effect categories and plausible mechanisms of action from the reviewed literature are described. Also presented are a set of best practice guidelines for treating patients affected by electromagnetic exposures and for using technology safely in health care settings. In conclusion, there is an extensive evidence base revealing that significant stress to human biological systems is being imposed by exposure to everyday wireless communication devices and supporting infrastructure. This evidence is compelling enough to warrant an update in medical education and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie E. McCredden
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Naomi Cook
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Steven Weller
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Environmental and Population Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Victor Leach
- Oceania Radiofrequency Scientific Advisory Association (ORSAA), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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19
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de Vocht F, Albers P. The population health effects from 5G: Controlling the narrative. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1082031. [PMID: 36600933 PMCID: PMC9806221 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1082031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Frank de Vocht
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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20
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Leszczynski D. Call for consensus debate on mobile phone radiation and health: Are current safety guidelines sufficient to protect everyone's health? Front Public Health 2022; 10:1085821. [PMID: 36589931 PMCID: PMC9799717 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1085821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Leszczynski
- Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland,Frontiers, Lausanne, Switzerland,*Correspondence: Dariusz Leszczynski
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21
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5G Electromagnetic Radiation Attenuates Skin Melanogenesis In Vitro by Suppressing ROS Generation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081449. [PMID: 35892650 PMCID: PMC9331092 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, the impacts of 5G electromagnetic radiation (EMR) with 28 GHz on human health have been attracting public attention with the advent of 5G wireless communication. Here, we report that 5G (28 GHz) EMR can attenuate the skin pigmentation in murine melanoma cells (B16F10) and a 3D pigmented human epidermis model (Melanoderm™). B16 cells were exposed to 5G (28 GHz) with or without α-MSH for 4 h per day. Interestingly, 5G attenuated α-MSH-induced melanin synthesis. Fontana-Masson staining confirmed that the dendritic formation of α-MSH stimulated B16 cells was diminished by 5G exposure. To confirm the anti-melanogenic effect of 5G EMR, MelanoDerm™ was irradiated with 5G at a power intensity of 10 W/m2 for 4 h a day for 16 days and melanin distribution was detected with Fontana-Masson staining, which supported the anti-melanogenic effect of 5G EMR. Consistently, 5G EMR suppressed α-MSH induced upregulation of melanogenic enzymes; tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2. Of note, 5G EMR attenuated ROS production stimulated by α-MSH and H2O2, suggesting that 5G EMR may dissipate ROS generation, which is pivotal for the melanin synthesis. Collectively, we demonstrated that 5G EMR can attenuate skin pigmentation by attenuating ROS generation.
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22
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Istepanian RSH. Mobile Health (m-Health) in Retrospect: The Known Unknowns. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073747. [PMID: 35409431 PMCID: PMC8998037 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
For nearly two decades, mobile health or (m-Health) was hailed as the most innovative and enabling area for the digital transformation of healthcare globally. However, this profound vision became a fleeting view since the inception and domination of smart phones, and the reorientation of the concept towards the exclusivity of global smart phone application markets and services. The global consumerization of m-Health in numerous disciplines of healthcare, fitness and wellness areas is unprecedented. However, this divergence between 'mobile health capitalism' and the 'science of mobile health' led to the creation of the 'm-Health schism'. This schism was sustained by the continued domination of the former on the expense of the latter. This also led to increased global m-Health inequality and divide between the much-perceived health and patient benefits and the markets of m-Health. This divergence was more evident in low and middle income (LMIC) countries compared to the developed world. This powerful yet misguided evolution of the m-Health was driven essentially by complex factors. These are presented in this paper as the 'known unknowns' or 'the obvious but sanctioned facts' of m-Health. These issues had surreptitiously contributed to this reorientation and the widening schism of m-Health. The collateral damage of this process was the increased shift towards understanding 'digital health' as a conjecture term associated with mobile health. However, to date, no clear or scientific views are discussed or analyzed on the actual differences and correlation aspects between digital and mobile health. This particular 'known unknown' is presented in detail in order to provide a rapprochement framework of this correlation and valid presentations between the two areas. The framework correlates digital health with the other standard ICT for the healthcare domains of telemedicine, telehealth and e-health. These are also increasingly used in conjunction with digital health, without clear distinctions between these terms and digital health. These critical issues have become timelier and more important to discuss and present, particularly after the world has been caught off guard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The much hyped and the profiteering digital health solutions developed in response of this pandemic provided a modest impact, and the benefits were mostly inadequate in mitigating the massive health, human, and economic impact of this pandemic. This largely commercial reorientation of mobile health was unable not only to predict the severity of the pandemic, but also unable to provide adequate digital tools or effective pre-emptive digital epidemiological shielding and guarding mechanisms against this devastating pandemic. There are many lessons to be learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic from the mobile and digital health perspectives, and lessons must be learnt from the past and to address the critical aspects discussed in this paper for better understanding of mobile health and effective tackling of future global healthcare challenges.
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23
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Lagorio S, Blettner M, Baaken D, Feychting M, Karipidis K, Loney T, Orsini N, Röösli M, Paulo MS, Elwood M. The effect of exposure to radiofrequency fields on cancer risk in the general and working population: A protocol for a systematic review of human observational studies. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 157:106828. [PMID: 34433115 PMCID: PMC8484862 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) has an ongoing project to assess potential health effects of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) in the general and working population. Here we present the protocol for a systematic review of the scientific literature on cancer hazards from exposure to RF-EMF in humans, commissioned by the WHO as part of that project. OBJECTIVE To assess the quality and strength of the evidence provided by human observational studies for a causal association between exposure to RF-EMF and risk of neoplastic diseases. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We will include cohort and case-control studies investigating neoplasia risks in relation to three types of exposure to RF-EMF: near-field, head-localized, exposure from wireless phone use (SR-A); far-field, whole body, environmental exposure from fixed-site transmitters (SR-B); near/far-field occupational exposures from use of handheld transceivers or RF-emitting equipment in the workplace (SR-C). While no restriction on tumour type will be applied, we will focus on selected neoplasms of the central nervous system (brain, meninges, pituitary gland, acoustic nerve) and salivary gland tumours (SR-A); brain tumours and leukaemias (SR-B, SR-C). INFORMATION SOURCES Eligible studies will be identified through Medline, Embase, and EMF-Portal. RISK-OF-BIAS ASSESSMENT We will use a tailored version of the OHAT's tool to evaluate the study's internal validity. DATA SYNTHESIS We will consider separately studies on different tumours, neoplasm-specific risks from different exposure sources, and a given exposure-outcome pair in adults and children. When a quantitative synthesis of findings can be envisaged, the main aims of the meta-analysis will be to assess the strength of association and the shape of the exposure-response relationship; to quantify the degree of heterogeneity across studies; and explore the sources of inconsistency (if any). When a meta-analysis is judged inappropriate, we will perform a narrative synthesis, complemented by a structured tabulation of results and appropriate visual displays. EVIDENCE ASSESSMENT Confidence in evidence will be assessed in line with the GRADE approach. FUNDING This project is supported by the World Health Organization. Co-financing was provided by the New Zealand Ministry of Health; the Istituto Superiore di Sanità in its capacity as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Radiation and Health; ARPANSA as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Radiation Protection. REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021236798.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Lagorio
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità), Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Blettner
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University of Mainz, Germany.
| | - Dan Baaken
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University of Mainz, Germany.
| | - Maria Feychting
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ken Karipidis
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), Yallambie, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Nicola Orsini
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Martin Röösli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Marilia Silva Paulo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Methodology of Studying Effects of Mobile Phone Radiation on Organisms: Technical Aspects. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312642. [PMID: 34886365 PMCID: PMC8656635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The negative influence of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation on organisms, including humans, has been discussed widely in recent years. This paper deals with the methodology of examining possible harmful effects of mobile phone radiation, focusing on in vivo and in vitro laboratory methods of investigation and evaluation and their main problems and difficulties. Basic experimental parameters are summarized and discussed, and recent large studies are also mentioned. For the laboratory experiments, accurate setting and description of dosimetry are essential; therefore, we give recommendations for the technical parameters of the experiments, especially for a well-defined source of radiation by Software Defined Radio.
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Panagopoulos DJ, Karabarbounis A, Yakymenko I, Chrousos GP. Human‑made electromagnetic fields: Ion forced‑oscillation and voltage‑gated ion channel dysfunction, oxidative stress and DNA damage (Review). Int J Oncol 2021; 59:92. [PMID: 34617575 PMCID: PMC8562392 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2021.5272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure of animals/biological samples to human‑made electromagnetic fields (EMFs), especially in the extremely low frequency (ELF) band, and the microwave/radio frequency (RF) band which is always combined with ELF, may lead to DNA damage. DNA damage is connected with cell death, infertility and other pathologies, including cancer. ELF exposure from high‑voltage power lines and complex RF exposure from wireless communication antennas/devices are linked to increased cancer risk. Almost all human‑made RF EMFs include ELF components in the form of modulation, pulsing and random variability. Thus, in addition to polarization and coherence, the existence of ELFs is a common feature of almost all human‑made EMFs. The present study reviews the DNA damage and related effects induced by human‑made EMFs. The ion forced‑oscillation mechanism for irregular gating of voltage‑gated ion channels on cell membranes by polarized/coherent EMFs is extensively described. Dysfunction of ion channels disrupts intracellular ionic concentrations, which determine the cell's electrochemical balance and homeostasis. The present study shows how this can result in DNA damage through reactive oxygen species/free radical overproduction. Thus, a complete picture is provided of how human‑made EMF exposure may indeed lead to DNA damage and related pathologies, including cancer. Moreover, it is suggested that the non‑thermal biological effects attributed to RF EMFs are actually due to their ELF components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris J. Panagopoulos
- Laboratory of Health Physics, Radiobiology and Cytogenetics, Institute of Nuclear and Radiological Sciences and Technology, Energy and Safety, National Center for Scientific Research 'Demokritos', 15310 Athens, Greece
- Choremeion Research Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Electromagnetic Field-Biophysics Research Laboratory, 10681 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Karabarbounis
- Department of Physics, Section of Nuclear and Particle Physics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Igor Yakymenko
- Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 03022 Kyiv, Ukraine
- Department of Public Health, Kyiv Medical University, 02000 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - George P. Chrousos
- Choremeion Research Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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26
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Design and SAR assessment of three compact 5G antenna arrays. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21265. [PMID: 34711873 PMCID: PMC8553834 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper three different multi stub antenna arrays at 27–29.5 GHz are designed. The proposed antenna arrays consist of eight single elements. The structure of feeding parts is the same but the radiation elements are different. The feeding network for array is an eight way Wilkinson power divider (WPD). To guarantee the simulation results, one of the proposed structures is fabricated and measured (namely the characteristics of S11, E-, and H-plane patterns) which shows acceptable consistency with measurement results. The simulation results by CST and HFSS show reasonable agreement for reflection coefficient and radiation patterns in the E- and H- planes. The overall size of the proposed antenna in maximum case is 29.5 mm × 52 mm × 0.38 mm (2.8 \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$${{\varvec{\lambda}}}_{0}$$\end{document}λ0). Moreover, for Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) estimation, a three-layer spherical human head model (skin, skull, and the brain) is placed next to the arrays as the exposure source. The simulation results show that the performance of proposed antennas as low-SAR sources makes them ideal candidates for the safe usage and lack of impact of millimeter waves (mmW) on the human health. In all three cases of SAR simulations the value of SAR1g and SAR10g are below the standard limitations.
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Kaczmarczyk LS, Marsay KS, Shevchenko S, Pilossof M, Levi N, Einat M, Oren M, Gerlitz G. Corona and polio viruses are sensitive to short pulses of W-band gyrotron radiation. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:3967-3972. [PMID: 34456659 PMCID: PMC8385265 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01300-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has raised the need of versatile means for virus decontamination. Millimeter waves are used in biochemical research in dynamic nuclear polarization enhanced nuclear magnetic resonance (DNP/NMR) spectroscopy. However, their efficiency in object decontamination for viruses has not been tested yet. Here we report the high efficiency of 95 GHz waves in killing both coronavirus 229E and poliovirus. An exposure of 2 s to 95 GHz waves reduced the titer of these viruses by 99.98% and 99.375%, respectively, and formed holes in the envelope of 229E virions as detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The ability of 95 GHz waves to reduce the coronavirus titer to a range of limited infective dose of SARS-CoV-2 for humans and animal models along with precise focusing capabilities for these waves suggest 95 GHz waves as an effective way to decontaminate objects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz S. Kaczmarczyk
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Katherine S. Marsay
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
| | - Sergey Shevchenko
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Moritz Pilossof
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Nehora Levi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Moshe Einat
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Faculty of Engineering, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Matan Oren
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
| | - Gabi Gerlitz
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ariel University, Kiryat Hamada, 40700 Ariel, Israel
- Ariel Center for Applied Cancer Research, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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Wood A, Mate R, Karipidis K. Meta-analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies of the biological effects of low-level millimetre waves. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2021; 31:606-613. [PMID: 33727686 PMCID: PMC7962924 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-021-00307-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the roll-out of new technologies such as 5G, there has been renewed community concern regarding the adequacy of research on possible health effects from associated radiofrequency radiation, mainly in the millimetre wave (MMW) band. OBJECTIVE We conducted a meta-analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies investigating bioeffects of MMWs at low exposure levels. METHODS We identified 107 in vitro and in vivo studies investigating MMWs and biological effects in which the power density employed has been below 100 W/m2, which is below the current standards for occupational local exposures. Where possible, we estimated the magnitude of the principal effect reported or set this magnitude to zero in studies reporting no significant effects. We also estimated the quality of the studies, based on a methodology used in previous analyses. RESULTS We show a negative correlation between effect size and both power density and specific absorption rate. There was also a significant negative correlation between effect size and quality score. A multivariate analysis revealed that there is an increase in the effect size for certain biological systems being investigated and laboratories in which the work was carried out whilst the quality score for some of these tends to be low. We note that many of the studies were motivated by a desire to elucidate the possible mechanisms in therapeutic devices rather than assessing the safety of telecommunications systems. Finally, it appears that the presence or absence of modulation does not influence the reported effect size. SIGNIFICANCE Many of the findings of this meta-analysis have not been reported before and have important implications for overall interpretation of in vitro and in vivo data. Overall, the results of this study do not confirm an association between low-level MMWs and biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Wood
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Rohan Mate
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ken Karipidis
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, Melbourne, Australia
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