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Mortazavi SA, Haghani M, Vafapour H, Ghadimi-Moghadam A, Yarbakhsh H, Eslami J, Yarbakhsh R, Zarei S, Rastegarian N, Shams SF, Darvish L, Mohammadi S. Should Parents Allow Their Children Use Smartphones and Tablets? The Issue of Screen Time for Recreational Activities. J Biomed Phys Eng 2023; 13:563-572. [PMID: 38148959 PMCID: PMC10749417 DOI: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has shown that children are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) and blue light emitted from digital screens compared to healthy adults. This paper presents the findings of a cross-sectional study conducted in Yasuj, Iran, to investigate the screen time habits of children and adolescents and its potential impact on their health. A total of 63 participants, including 44 boys and 19 girls, were randomly selected for the study. The results showed that the average daily screen time for the children was 87.38 minutes, with a standard deviation of 49.58. When examining the specific purposes of screen time, it was found that the children spent an average of 17.54 minutes per day on screens for school assignments, 70 minutes per day for recreational purposes, and 23.41 minutes per day for contacting family, friends, and relatives. Our study highlights that a significant portion of the children's screen time was allocated to recreational activities. We observed some differences in screen time between girls and boys. Boys had a slightly higher overall daily screen time, primarily driven by more recreational screen time. However, girls spent slightly more time on screens for school assignments. The screen time for social interactions was similar for both genders. Our findings on the cognitive performance of children with different levels of screen time will be published in a separate paper.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masoud Haghani
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hassan Vafapour
- Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Helia Yarbakhsh
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
| | - Jamshid Eslami
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Yarbakhsh
- Department of Computer Engineering, Sharif University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Zarei
- Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Rastegarian
- Department of Speech Pathology, School of Rehabilitation, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Fateme Shams
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Valiasr Hospital, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Leili Darvish
- MVLS College, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Sahar Mohammadi
- Department of Radiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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AYDIN F, AKŞİT E, HÜSEYİNOĞLU AYDIN A, TURGAY YILDIRIM Ö. The Effects of Heart-to-Mobile Phone Distance on the Circulatory System. KONURALP TIP DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.18521/ktd.835364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Yahyazadeh A, Altunkaynak BZ. Neuroprotective efficacy of luteolin on a 900-MHz electromagnetic field-induced cerebellar alteration in adult male rat. Brain Res 2020; 1744:146919. [PMID: 32485174 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The adverse health consequences of exposure to electromagnetic field emitted from cell phone has recently raised public concerns worldwide. Also, the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) standard that operates in 900 MHz frequency is the most popular. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the adverse effect of exposure to 900 MHz EMF (1 h/day) on the cerebella of 12-week-old rats. We also evaluated the protective activity of luteolin (20 μg/kg/day) against possible biological change in the cerebellar tissues exposed to EMF. Twenty-four male wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into four group of six rats: Control, EMF, EMF + luteolin, luteolin. Serological and biochemical analyses, as well as histopathological examination were performed on all cerebellar samples. We found that SOD (superoxide dismutase) level was significantly increased in the EMF group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). To the contrary, decreased SOD activity was detected in the EMF + luteolin group compared to control group (p < 0.05). The total number of Purkinje and granular cells was significantly decreased in the EMF group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In the EMF + luteolin group, the total number of Purkinje and granular cells was significantly higher than the EMF group (p < 0.05). Histopathological evaluation also showed destructive damage to the architectures of cerebellar tissues. Our results suggest that exposure to EMF may cause cellular damage to the rat cerebellum. Further, the improvement of cerebellar damage may have resulted from antioxidant efficacy of luteolin by alleviating oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yahyazadeh
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey.
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de Seze R, Poutriquet C, Gamez C, Maillot-Maréchal E, Robidel F, Lecomte A, Fonta C. Repeated exposure to nanosecond high power pulsed microwaves increases cancer incidence in rat. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226858. [PMID: 32267859 PMCID: PMC7141660 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
High-power microwaves are used to inhibit electronics of threatening military or civilian vehicles. This work aims to assess health hazards of high-power microwaves and helps to define hazard threshold levels of modulated radiofrequency exposures such as those emitted by the first generations of mobile phones. Rats were exposed to the highest possible field levels, under single acute or repetitive exposures for eight weeks. Intense microwave electric fields at 1 MV m-1 of nanoseconds duration were applied from two sources at different carrier frequencies of 10 and 3.7 GHz. The repetition rate was 100 pps, and the duration of train pulses lasted from 10 s to twice 8 min. The effects on the central nervous system were evaluated, by labelling brain inflammation marker GFAP and by performing different behavioural tests: rotarod, T-maze, beam-walking, open-field, and avoidance test. Long-time survival was measured in animals repeatedly exposed, and anatomopathological analysis was performed on animals sacrificed at two years of life or earlier in case of precocious death. Control groups were sham exposed. Few effects were observed on behaviour. With acute exposure, an avoidance reflex was shown at very high thermal level (22 W kg-1); GFAP was increased some days after exposure. Most importantly, with repeated exposures, survival time was 4-months shorter in the exposed group, with eleven animals exhibiting a large sub-cutaneous tumour, compared to two in the sham group. A residual X-ray exposure was also present in the beam (0.8 Gy), which is probably not a bias for the observed result. High power microwaves below thermal level in average, can increase cancer prevalence and decrease survival time in rats, without clear effects on behaviour. The parameters of this effect need to be further explored, and a more precise dosimetry to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- René de Seze
- Chronic Risks Division, PeriTox/Experimental Toxicology Unit UMR-I 01, Institut National de l’Environnement Industriel et des Risques, Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Carole Poutriquet
- Brain and Cognition Research Center CerCo, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR5549, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Christelle Gamez
- Chronic Risks Division, PeriTox/Experimental Toxicology Unit UMR-I 01, Institut National de l’Environnement Industriel et des Risques, Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Emmanuelle Maillot-Maréchal
- Chronic Risks Division, PeriTox/Experimental Toxicology Unit UMR-I 01, Institut National de l’Environnement Industriel et des Risques, Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Franck Robidel
- Chronic Risks Division, PeriTox/Experimental Toxicology Unit UMR-I 01, Institut National de l’Environnement Industriel et des Risques, Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Anthony Lecomte
- Chronic Risks Division, PeriTox/Experimental Toxicology Unit UMR-I 01, Institut National de l’Environnement Industriel et des Risques, Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Caroline Fonta
- Brain and Cognition Research Center CerCo, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR5549, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Movahedi MM, Nouri F, Tavakoli Golpaygani A, Ataee L, Amani S, Taheri M. Antibacterial Susceptibility Pattern of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus after Exposure to Electromagnetic Waves Emitted from Mobile Phone Simulator. J Biomed Phys Eng 2019; 9:637-646. [PMID: 32039094 PMCID: PMC6943849 DOI: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: The increasing use of telecommunication devices such as Wi-Fi modems and mobile phones in the recent years can change the cellular structure of microorganisms so the generation of electromagnetic waves has led to concern in the community whenever be exposed to these fields and may have harmful effects on human health. Material and Methods: In this experimental study, standard strains of bacteria were prepared on Mueller-Hinton agar for bacterial growth to obtain 0.5 McFarland turbidity (1.5 × 108 CFU) of bacteria.
Antibiotic susceptibility test using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was done. For Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa,
antibiotics susceptibility test was conducted. The test group was exposed to electromagnetic waves emitted by mobile phone simulator with a frequency of 900 MHz and the control group were not exposed. Results: The results revealed that increasing duration of exposure to electromagnetic waves emitted by the mobile simulators with a frequency of 900 MHz especially after 24 h of exposure,
can increase bacterial resistance in S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. Conclusion: Several factors can cause bacterial resistance against antibiotics. One of these factors is the electromagnetic waves emitted from mobile simulator with a frequency of 900 MHz,
which can increase the permeability of the cell wall of bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Movahedi
- PhD, Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- PhD, Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - F Nouri
- PhD, Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - L Ataee
- MD, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - S Amani
- MD, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - M Taheri
- PhD, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Jadia S, Qureshi S, Jain L, Shringirishi M. Adverse Effect of Mobile Phone on Hearing in Healthy Individuals: A Clinical Study. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2019; 71:1169-1173. [PMID: 31750144 PMCID: PMC6841797 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-018-1247-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mobile phone is a ubiquitous piece in this modern world. An estimated 85% of Americans, 80% of the British, and perhaps 75% of Indians use it, as of today. Mobile phones communicate by transmitting radio waves through a network of fixed antennas called base stations. Radio frequency waves are electromagnetic fields, and unlike ionizing radiation such as X-rays or gamma rays, can neither break chemical bonds nor cause ionization in the human body. 1000 participants from outpatient department of a tertiary care center over a period of one and a half years, were included in the study and were divided equally into case (> 1 year use) and control (< 1 year use) groups. Out of 500 cases, maximum 233(46.6%) subjects were using mobile since last 4-6 year and 134(26.8%) were using mobile since last 7-9 year and maximum 344(68.8%) subjects were using mobile 1-3 h/day and 145(29.0%) were using mobile 4-6 h/day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Jadia
- Department of E.N.T, Peoples Medical College and Research Center, Bhopal, India
| | - Sadat Qureshi
- Department of E.N.T, Peoples Medical College and Research Center, Bhopal, India
| | - Leena Jain
- Department of E.N.T, SMBT Institute of Medical Sciences, Nashik, India
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Kim JH, Lee JK, Kim HG, Kim KB, Kim HR. Possible Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure on Central Nerve System. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2019; 27:265-275. [PMID: 30481957 PMCID: PMC6513191 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2018.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Technological advances of mankind, through the development of electrical and communication technologies, have resulted in the exposure to artificial electromagnetic fields (EMF). Technological growth is expected to continue; as such, the amount of EMF exposure will continue to increase steadily. In particular, the use-time of smart phones, that have become a necessity for modern people, is steadily increasing. Social concerns and interest in the impact on the cranial nervous system are increased when considering the area where the mobile phone is used. However, before discussing possible effects of radiofrequency-electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) on the human body, several factors must be investigated about the influence of EMFs at the level of research using in vitro or animal models. Scientific studies on the mechanism of biological effects are also required. It has been found that RF-EMF can induce changes in central nervous system nerve cells, including neuronal cell apoptosis, changes in the function of the nerve myelin and ion channels; furthermore, RF-EMF act as a stress source in living creatures. The possible biological effects of RF-EMF exposure have not yet been proven, and there are insufficient data on biological hazards to provide a clear answer to possible health risks. Therefore, it is necessary to study the biological response to RF-EMF in consideration of the comprehensive exposure with regard to the use of various devices by individuals. In this review, we summarize the possible biological effects of RF-EMF exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hwan Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Koo Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Gun Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Bong Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hak Rim Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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Rusin A, Hamada N. Exploring the legacy and impact of historical IJRB articles and contributions to ICRP publications and Radiation Research articles through graphical reference mapping. Int J Radiat Biol 2019; 95:802-815. [PMID: 30806134 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2019.1587195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The International Journal of Radiation Biology (IJRB) celebrates its 60th birthday this year. Ahead of this very special issue, we wanted to produce strong representations of the journal's publication history in order to celebrate the current status of the journal and to look forward to its future. This was accomplished using 'reference maps'. Reference data were used from 1959 onward from the highest-cited paper in IJRB, for each respective year, to create a figure displaying when those articles were cited in IJRB since their publication. This was done to show the relative impact of historical IJRB papers to future research. Common themes of research were also examined by decade. Additionally, to show the historical impact of the journal outside of its immediate area of research and its practical applications, information on IJRB articles cited by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) was collected. It was in 1959 when IJRB published the first issue, and when ICRP also issued Publication 1. Among all Publications (1-139), 43 publications have thus far cited 320 IJRB papers and each of which have been cited 1-7 times. Most notably, Publications 90, 99, 118, and 131 cited more than 40 IJRB papers. Further research was done into references for IJRB's contemporary journal: Radiation Research. The most highly cited IJRB articles for each year together since its inception were cited 16,760 times since they were published and cited 1385 times in Radiation Research. Together, these three datasets and their representations show the diversity of historical IJRB publications, the impact of historical IJRB articles in both future research in the journal and outside of it, and articles which new prospective authors contributing to IJRB might find useful in their own research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Rusin
- a Department of Biology , McMaster University , Hamilton , Canada
| | - Nobuyuki Hamada
- b Radiation Safety Research Center, Nuclear Technology Research Laboratory , Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry (CRIEPI) , Tokyo , Japan
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Béres S, Németh Á, Ajtay Z, Kiss I, Németh B, Hejjel L. Cellular Phone Irradiation of the Head Affects Heart Rate Variability Depending on Inspiration/Expiration Ratio. In Vivo 2018; 32:1145-1153. [PMID: 30150437 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile phones may have harmful health effects and clinical examinations report ambiguous results of exposure concerning neurophysiological and cardiovascular actions. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study investigated heart rate asymmetry (HRA) and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters with 1:2 and 1:1 metronome-paced inspiration/expiration ratios during short-term 1,800MHz GSM cellular phone exposure in 20 healthy volunteers. RESULTS Significant HRA changes by Porta and Guzik indices were not found on exposure compared to sham exposure. Time-domain HRV parameters on exposure showed significant differences at 1:1 paced, but not at 1:2 paced breathing compared to sham exposure. A mild post-exposure effect was observed regarding root mean square of successive RR-differences. CONCLUSION The findings reflect persisting acute effects of GSM handset emission on the autonomic nervous system. Exploring its influences on health status and survival needs further studies. Symmetrical breathing can be used as a sensitizing factor in other HRV/HRA analysis studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ádám Németh
- Heart Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zénó Ajtay
- Heart Institute, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - István Kiss
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Balázs Németh
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Curcio G. Exposure to Mobile Phone-Emitted Electromagnetic Fields and Human Attention: No Evidence of a Causal Relationship. Front Public Health 2018. [PMID: 29527523 PMCID: PMC5829032 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past 20 years of research regarding effects of mobile phone-derived electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on human cognition, attention has been one of the first and most extensively investigated functions. Different domains investigated covered selective, sustained, and divided attention. Here, the most relevant studies on this topic have been reviewed and discussed. A total of 43 studies are reported and summarized: of these, 31 indicated a total absence of statistically significant difference between real and sham signal, 9 showed a partial improvement of attentional performance (mainly increase in speed of performance and/or improvement of accuracy) as a function of real exposure, while the remaining 3 showed inconsistent results (i.e., increased speed in some tasks and slowing in others) or even a worsening in performance (reduced speed and/or deteriorated accuracy). These results are independent of the specific attentional domain investigated. This scenario allows to conclude that there is a substantial lack of evidence about a negative influence of non-ionizing radiations on attention functioning. Nonetheless, published literature is very heterogeneous under the point of view of methodology (type of signal, exposure time, blinding), dosimetry (accurate evaluation of specific absorption rate-SAR or emitted power), and statistical analyses, making arduous a conclusive generalization to everyday life. Some remarks and suggestions regarding future research are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Curcio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Kim HS, Park JS, Jin YB, Do Choi H, Kwon JH, Pack JK, Kim N, Ahn YH. Effects of exposure to electromagnetic field from 915 MHz radiofrequency identification system on circulating blood cells in the healthy adult rat. Bioelectromagnetics 2017; 39:68-76. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.22093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hye Sun Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery; Ajou University School of Medicine; Suwon Republic of Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program; Department of Biomedical Sciences; Graduate School of Ajou University; Suwon Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Sung Park
- Department of Neurosurgery; Konkuk University Chungju Hospital; Konkuk University School of Medicine; Chungju Republic of Korea
| | - Yeung-Bae Jin
- National Primate Research Center; Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology; Cheongju Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Do Choi
- Radio Technology Research Department; Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute; Daejeon Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hwa Kwon
- Radio Technology Research Department; Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute; Daejeon Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Ki Pack
- Department of Radio Sciences and Engineering; College of Engineering; Chungnam National University; Daejeon Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Kim
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering; Chungbuk National University; Cheongju Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hwan Ahn
- Department of Neurosurgery; Ajou University School of Medicine; Suwon Republic of Korea
- Neuroscience Graduate Program; Department of Biomedical Sciences; Graduate School of Ajou University; Suwon Republic of Korea
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Altuntas G, Sadoglu D, Ardic S, Yilmaz H, Imamoglu M, Turedi S. Acute effects of the electromagnetic waves emitted by mobile phones on attention in emergency physicians. Am J Emerg Med 2017; 36:455-460. [PMID: 29157789 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2017.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of the electromagnetic waves (EMW) emitted by mobile phones on attention in emergency physicians. METHODS This single-center, prospective, randomized, double-blinded clinical study was performed among emergency physicians in a tertiary hospital. Thirty emergency physicians were enrolled in the study. Initial d2 test was applied in the evaluation of attention and concentration of all the physicians, who were randomly assigned into one of two groups. The control group members hold mobile phones in 'off' mode to their left ears for 15min. The members of the intervention group hold mobile phones in 'on' mode to their left ears for 15min, thus exposing them to 900-1800MHz EMW. The d2 test was re-applied to both groups after this procedure. Differences in attention and concentration levels between the groups were compared. RESULTS Difference between initial and final d2 test in total performance (TN-E, p=0.319), in total number of figures marked (TN, p=0.177), in test performance percentile (PR, p=0.619) and in attention fluctuation (FR, p=0.083) were similar between the groups. However, difference in the number of figures missed (E1 selective attention, p=0.025), difference between numbers of incorrectly marked figures (E2, p=0,018) and difference in focus levels (E, p=0.016) were significantly in favor of the intervention group. CONCLUSION According to our study findings, the EMW emitted by mobile phones has no deleterious effect on the attention and concentration levels of emergency physicians, and even has a positive impact on selective attention levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurkan Altuntas
- Rize Public Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Rize, Turkey
| | - Davut Sadoglu
- University of Health Science, Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Senol Ardic
- University of Health Science, Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Hakan Yilmaz
- University of Health Science, Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Department of Psychology, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Melih Imamoglu
- Rize Public Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Rize, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Turedi
- Karadeniz Technical University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey.
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Abstract
This study concerns the effects of microwave on health because they pervade diverse fields of our lives. The brain has been recognized as one of the organs that is most vulnerable to microwave radiation. Therefore, in this article, we reviewed recent studies that have explored the effects of microwave radiation on the brain, especially the hippocampus, including analyses of epidemiology, morphology, electroencephalograms, learning and memory abilities and the mechanisms underlying brain dysfunction. However, the problem with these studies is that different parameters, such as the frequency, modulation, and power density of the radiation and the irradiation time, were used to evaluate microwave radiation between studies. As a result, the existing data exhibit poor reproducibility and comparability. To determine the specific dose-effect relationship between microwave radiation and its biological effects, more intensive studies must be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jia Zhi
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Li-Feng Wang
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Xiang-Jun Hu
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, 100850, China.
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Al-Bayyari N. The effect of cell phone usage on semen quality and fertility among Jordanian males. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Megha K, Deshmukh PS, Ravi AK, Tripathi AK, Abegaonkar MP, Banerjee BD. Effect of Low-Intensity Microwave Radiation on Monoamine Neurotransmitters and Their Key Regulating Enzymes in Rat Brain. Cell Biochem Biophys 2017; 73:93-100. [PMID: 25672490 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-015-0576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The increasing use of wireless communication devices has raised major concerns towards deleterious effects of microwave radiation on human health. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the effect of low-intensity microwave radiation on levels of monoamine neurotransmitters and gene expression of their key regulating enzymes in brain of Fischer rats. Animals were exposed to 900 MHz and 1800 MHz microwave radiation for 30 days (2 h/day, 5 days/week) with respective specific absorption rates as 5.953 × 10(-4) and 5.835 × 10(-4) W/kg. The levels of monoamine neurotransmitters viz. dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E) and serotonin (5-HT) were detected using LC-MS/MS in hippocampus of all experimental animals. In addition, mRNA expression of key regulating enzymes for these neurotransmitters viz. tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) (for DA, NE and E) and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH1 and TPH2) (for serotonin) was also estimated. Results showed significant reduction in levels of DA, NE, E and 5-HT in hippocampus of microwave-exposed animals in comparison with sham-exposed (control) animals. In addition, significant downregulation in mRNA expression of TH, TPH1 and TPH2 was also observed in microwave-exposed animals (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results indicate that low-intensity microwave radiation may cause learning and memory disturbances by altering levels of brain monoamine neurotransmitters at mRNA and protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanu Megha
- Environmental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences & G.T.B. Hospital (University of Delhi), Dilshad Garden, New Delhi, 110095, India
| | - Pravin S Deshmukh
- Environmental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences & G.T.B. Hospital (University of Delhi), Dilshad Garden, New Delhi, 110095, India
| | - Alok K Ravi
- Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, Department of Ocular Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ashok K Tripathi
- Environmental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences & G.T.B. Hospital (University of Delhi), Dilshad Garden, New Delhi, 110095, India
| | - Mahesh P Abegaonkar
- Centre for Applied Research in Electronics (CARE), Indian Institute of Technology, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Basu D Banerjee
- Environmental Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University College of Medical Sciences & G.T.B. Hospital (University of Delhi), Dilshad Garden, New Delhi, 110095, India.
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16
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Barthélémy A, Mouchard A, Bouji M, Blazy K, Puigsegur R, Villégier AS. Glial markers and emotional memory in rats following acute cerebral radiofrequency exposures. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:25343-25355. [PMID: 27696165 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7758-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The widespread mobile phone use raises concerns on the possible cerebral effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMF). Reactive astrogliosis was reported in neuroanatomical structures of adaptive behaviors after a single RF EMF exposure at high specific absorption rate (SAR, 6 W/kg). Here, we aimed to assess if neuronal injury and functional impairments were related to high SAR-induced astrogliosis. In addition, the level of beta amyloid 1-40 (Aβ 1-40) peptide was explored as a possible toxicity marker. Sprague Dawley male rats were exposed for 15 min at 0, 1.5, or 6 W/kg or for 45 min at 6 W/kg. Memory, emotionality, and locomotion were tested in the fear conditioning, the elevated plus maze, and the open field. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP, total and cytosolic fractions), myelin basic protein (MBP), and Aβ1-40 were quantified in six brain areas using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. According to our data, total GFAP was increased in the striatum (+114 %) at 1.5 W/kg. Long-term memory was reduced, and cytosolic GFAP was increased in the hippocampus (+119 %) and in the olfactory bulb (+46 %) at 6 W/kg (15 min). No MBP or Aβ1-40 expression modification was shown. Our data corroborates previous studies indicating RF EMF-induced astrogliosis. This study suggests that RF EMF-induced astrogliosis had functional consequences on memory but did not demonstrate that it was secondary to neuronal damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Barthélémy
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, CNRS UPR 3212, 5 rue Blaise Pascal, 67084, Strasbourg, France
| | - Amandine Mouchard
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
- Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives CNRS UMR5293 Université de Bordeaux, 146 rue Léo Saignat, 33076, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marc Bouji
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
- Campus des sciences et technologies, Université Saint-Joseph, Dekwaneh, Mar Roukos, Lebanon
| | - Kelly Blazy
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
- Unité mixte PERITOX EA 4285-UM INERIS 01 Laboratoire Périnatalité et risques toxicologiques CHU Amiens-Picardie Hôpital, Sud Avenue Laënnec, 80 480, Salouël, France
| | - Renaud Puigsegur
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
- Sous-direction de la police technique et scientifique, 31 Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, 69130, Ecully, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Villégier
- Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (INERIS), Unité de Toxicologie Expérimentale, Parc Technologique ALATA, BP no. 2, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France.
- Unité mixte PERITOX EA 4285-UM INERIS 01 Laboratoire Périnatalité et risques toxicologiques CHU Amiens-Picardie Hôpital, Sud Avenue Laënnec, 80 480, Salouël, France.
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17
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Bianchi MT, Phillips AJK, Wang W, Klerman EB. Statistics for Sleep and Biological Rhythms Research. J Biol Rhythms 2016; 32:7-17. [PMID: 27836938 DOI: 10.1177/0748730416670050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Journal of Biological Rhythms will be publishing articles exploring analysis and statistical topics relevant to researchers in biological rhythms and sleep research. The goal is to provide an overview of the most common issues that arise in the analysis and interpretation of data in these fields. By using case examples and highlighting the pearls and pitfalls of statistical inference, the authors will identify and explain ways in which experimental scientists can avoid common analytical and statistical mistakes and use appropriate analytical and statistical methods in their research. In this first article, we address the first steps in analysis of data: understanding the underlying statistical distribution of the data and establishing associative versus causal relationships. These ideas are then applied to sample size, power calculations, correlation testing, differences between description and prediction, and the narrative fallacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt T Bianchi
- Neurology Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrew J K Phillips
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Wei Wang
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth B Klerman
- Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Wood AW, Lajevardipour A, McIntosh RL. Lessons and Perspectives from a 25-Year Bioelectromagnetics Research Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13100950. [PMID: 27669282 PMCID: PMC5086689 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13100950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The question of whether electromagnetic fields from electric power or telecommunications systems can be linked unequivocally to health detriments has occupied scientific research endeavors for nearly half a century. For 25 years, the bioelectromagnetic research group at Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia, has pursued a series of investigations with relevant endpoints, such as neurophysiological and neuropsychological effects, cell calcium level changes, proliferation, and genotoxic effects. Most have shown no significant changes due to fields, however, in some pilot studies significant changes were revealed, but in most cases these were not replicated in follow-up studies. This highlights a feature of this research area, generally; the unambiguous identification of small changes in noisy data where the understanding of possible interaction mechanisms is lacking. On the other hand, mathematical modelling studies, particularly with respect to fields near metallic implants, in workers exposed to fields in harsh environmental conditions and at very high frequencies (THz), continue to add to the expanding knowledge database on the characteristics of the complex electromagnetic environment we live in today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Wood
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Alireza Lajevardipour
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Robert L McIntosh
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
- Chief Technology Office, Telstra Corporation, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
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Belyaev I, Dean A, Eger H, Hubmann G, Jandrisovits R, Kern M, Kundi M, Moshammer H, Lercher P, Müller K, Oberfeld G, Ohnsorge P, Pelzmann P, Scheingraber C, Thill R. EUROPAEM EMF Guideline 2016 for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of EMF-related health problems and illnesses. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2016; 31:363-397. [PMID: 27454111 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2016-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic diseases and illnesses associated with non-specific symptoms are on the rise. In addition to chronic stress in social and work environments, physical and chemical exposures at home, at work, and during leisure activities are causal or contributing environmental stressors that deserve attention by the general practitioner as well as by all other members of the health care community. It seems necessary now to take "new exposures" like electromagnetic fields (EMF) into account. Physicians are increasingly confronted with health problems from unidentified causes. Studies, empirical observations, and patient reports clearly indicate interactions between EMF exposure and health problems. Individual susceptibility and environmental factors are frequently neglected. New wireless technologies and applications have been introduced without any certainty about their health effects, raising new challenges for medicine and society. For instance, the issue of so-called non-thermal effects and potential long-term effects of low-dose exposure were scarcely investigated prior to the introduction of these technologies. Common electromagnetic field or EMF sources: Radio-frequency radiation (RF) (3 MHz to 300 GHz) is emitted from radio and TV broadcast antennas, Wi-Fi access points, routers, and clients (e.g. smartphones, tablets), cordless and mobile phones including their base stations, and Bluetooth devices. Extremely low frequency electric (ELF EF) and magnetic fields (ELF MF) (3 Hz to 3 kHz) are emitted from electrical wiring, lamps, and appliances. Very low frequency electric (VLF EF) and magnetic fields (VLF MF) (3 kHz to 3 MHz) are emitted, due to harmonic voltage and current distortions, from electrical wiring, lamps (e.g. compact fluorescent lamps), and electronic devices. On the one hand, there is strong evidence that long-term exposure to certain EMFs is a risk factor for diseases such as certain cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and male infertility. On the other hand, the emerging electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) is more and more recognized by health authorities, disability administrators and case workers, politicians, as well as courts of law. We recommend treating EHS clinically as part of the group of chronic multisystem illnesses (CMI), but still recognizing that the underlying cause remains the environment. In the beginning, EHS symptoms occur only occasionally, but over time they may increase in frequency and severity. Common EHS symptoms include headaches, concentration difficulties, sleep problems, depression, a lack of energy, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. A comprehensive medical history, which should include all symptoms and their occurrences in spatial and temporal terms and in the context of EMF exposures, is the key to making the diagnosis. The EMF exposure is usually assessed by EMF measurements at home and at work. Certain types of EMF exposure can be assessed by asking about common EMF sources. It is very important to take the individual susceptibility into account. The primary method of treatment should mainly focus on the prevention or reduction of EMF exposure, that is, reducing or eliminating all sources of high EMF exposure at home and at the workplace. The reduction of EMF exposure should also be extended to public spaces such as schools, hospitals, public transport, and libraries to enable persons with EHS an unhindered use (accessibility measure). If a detrimental EMF exposure is reduced sufficiently, the body has a chance to recover and EHS symptoms will be reduced or even disappear. Many examples have shown that such measures can prove effective. To increase the effectiveness of the treatment, the broad range of other environmental factors that contribute to the total body burden should also be addressed. Anything that supports homeostasis will increase a person's resilience against disease and thus against the adverse effects of EMF exposure. There is increasing evidence that EMF exposure has a major impact on the oxidative and nitrosative regulation capacity in affected individuals. This concept also may explain why the level of susceptibility to EMF can change and why the range of symptoms reported in the context of EMF exposures is so large. Based on our current understanding, a treatment approach that minimizes the adverse effects of peroxynitrite - as has been increasingly used in the treatment of multisystem illnesses - works best. This EMF Guideline gives an overview of the current knowledge regarding EMF-related health risks and provides recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment and accessibility measures of EHS to improve and restore individual health outcomes as well as for the development of strategies for prevention.
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20
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Zhang X, Huang WJ, Chen WW. Microwaves and Alzheimer's disease. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:1969-1972. [PMID: 27698682 PMCID: PMC5038365 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's diseases (AD) is the most common type of dementia and a neurodegenerative disease that occurs when the nerve cells in the brain die. The cause and treatment of AD remain unknown. However, AD is a disease that affects the brain, an organ that controls behavior. Accordingly, anything that can interact with the brain may affect this organ positively or negatively, thereby protecting or encouraging AD. In this regard, modern life encompasses microwaves for all issues including industrial, communications, medical and domestic tenders, and among all applications, the cell phone wave, which directly exposes the brain, continues to be the most used. Evidence suggests that microwaves may produce various biological effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and many arguments relay the possibility that microwaves may be involved in the pathophysiology of CNS disease, including AD. By contrast, previous studies have reported some beneficial cognitive effects and that microwaves may protect against cognitive impairment in AD. However, although many of the beneficial effects of microwaves are derived from animal models, but can easily be extrapolated to humans, whether microwaves cause AD is an important issue that is to be addressed in the current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221009, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Juan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221009, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Wei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221009, P.R. China
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Nagarjunakonda S, Amalakanti S, Uppala V, Gajula RK, Tata RS, Bolla HB, Rajanala L, Athina S, Daggumati R, Lavu H, Devanaboina AK. Mobile phones and seizures: drug-resistant epilepsy is less common in mobile-phone-using patients. Postgrad Med J 2016; 93:25-28. [DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2016-134140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Arendash GW. Review of the Evidence that Transcranial Electromagnetic Treatment will be a Safe and Effective Therapeutic Against Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 53:753-71. [PMID: 27258417 PMCID: PMC4981900 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We have demonstrated in multiple studies that daily, long-term electromagnetic field (EMF) treatment in the ultra-high frequency range not only protects Alzheimer's disease (AD) transgenic mice from cognitive impairment, but also reverses such impairment in aged AD mice. Moreover, these beneficial cognitive effects appear to be through direct actions on the AD process. Based on a large array of pre-clinical data, we have initiated a pilot clinical trial to determine the safety and efficacy of EMF treatment to mild-moderate AD subjects. Since it is important to establish the safety of this new neuromodulatory approach, the main purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive assessment of evidence supporting the safety of EMFs, particularly through transcranial electromagnetic treatment (TEMT). In addition to our own pre-clinical studies, a rich variety of both animal and cell culture studies performed by others have underscored the anticipated safety of TEMT in clinical AD trials. Moreover, numerous clinical studies have determined that short- or long-term human exposure to EMFs similar to those to be provided clinically by TEMT do not have deleterious effects on general health, cognitive function, or a variety of physiologic measures-to the contrary, beneficial effects on brain function/activity have been reported. Importantly, such EMF exposure has not been shown to increase the risk of any type of cancer in human epidemiologic studies, as well as animal and cell culture studies. In view of all the above, clinical trials of safety/efficacy with TEMT to AD subjects are clearly warranted and now in progress.
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Terzi M, Ozberk B, Deniz OG, Kaplan S. The role of electromagnetic fields in neurological disorders. J Chem Neuroanat 2016; 75:77-84. [PMID: 27083321 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the modern world, people are exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) as part of their daily lives; the important question is "What is the effect of EMFs on human health?" Most previous studies are epidemiological, and we still do not have concrete evidence of EMF pathophysiology. Several factors may lead to chemical, morphological, and electrical alterations in the nervous system in a direct or indirect way. It is reported that non-ionizing EMFs have effects on animals and cells. The changes they bring about in organic systems may cause oxidative stress, which is essential for the neurophysiological process; it is associated with increased oxidization in species, or a reduction in antioxidant defense systems. Severe oxidative stress can cause imbalances in reactive oxygen species, which may trigger neurodegeneration. This review aims to detail these changes. Special attention is paid to the current data regarding EMFs' effects on neurological disease and associated symptoms, such as headache, sleep disturbances, and fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Terzi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Berra Ozberk
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Omur Gulsum Deniz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Kaplan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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The effects of the duration of mobile phone use on heart rate variability parameters in healthy subjects. Anatol J Cardiol 2016; 16:833-838. [PMID: 27109242 PMCID: PMC5324882 DOI: 10.14744/anatoljcardiol.2016.6717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to estimate the influence of the duration of mobile phone use on heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy individuals. Methods: One hundred forty-eight individuals without any established systemic disease and who had undergone 24-h ambulatory ECG monitoring were included in the case-control study. All the individuals had been using mobile phones for more than 10 years. Three-channel 24-h Holter monitoring was performed to derive the mean heart rate, standard deviation of normal NN intervals (SDNN), standard deviation of 5-min (m) mean NN intervals (SDANN), the proportion of NN50 divided by the total number of NNs (pNN50), the root mean square differences of successive NN intervals (RMSSD), high (HF)-, low (LF)-, very low (VLF)-frequency power, total power components, and the LF/HF ratio. Individuals were divided into four groups according to their duration of mobile phone use [no mobile phone use (Control group), <30 min/day (Group 1), 30–60 min/day (Group 2), and >60 min/day (Group 3)]. Results: All the groups had similar features with regard to demographic and clinical characteristics. No significant arrhythmias were observed in any of the groups. The LF/HF ratio was higher, whereas the SDNN, SDANN, RMSSD, and pNN50 values were lower in the study groups than in the control group (p<0.05). No significant differences were identified among groups with respect to heart rate, VLF, and total power values (p>0.05). Conclusion: In this study, it was shown that the duration of mobile phone use may affect the autonomic balance in healthy subjects. The electromagnetic field created by mobile phone use may induce HRV changes in the long term.
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Motawi TK, Darwish HA, Moustafa YM, Labib MM. Biochemical Modifications and Neuronal Damage in Brain of Young and Adult Rats After Long-Term Exposure to Mobile Phone Radiations. Cell Biochem Biophys 2014; 70:845-55. [DOI: 10.1007/s12013-014-9990-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Mortazavi SAR, Tavakkoli-Golpayegani A, Haghani M, Mortazavi SMJ. Looking at the other side of the coin: the search for possible biopositive cognitive effects of the exposure to 900 MHz GSM mobile phone radiofrequency radiation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2014; 12:75. [PMID: 24843789 PMCID: PMC4004454 DOI: 10.1186/2052-336x-12-75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Although exposure to electromagnetic radiation in radiofrequency range has caused a great deal of concern globally, radiofrequency radiation has many critical applications in both telecommunication and non-communication fields. The induction of adaptive response phenomena by exposure to radiofrequency radiation as either increased resistance to a subsequent dose of ionizing radiation or resistance to a bacterial infection has been reported recently. Interestingly, the potential beneficial effects of mobile phone radiofrequency radiation are not only limited to the induction of adaptive phenomena. It has previously been indicated that the visual reaction time of university students significantly decreased after a 10 min exposure to radiofrequency radiation emitted by a mobile phone. Furthermore, it has been revealed that occupational exposures to radar radiations decreased the reaction time in radar workers. Based on these findings, it can be hypothesized that in special circumstances, these exposures might lead to a better response of humans to different hazards. Other investigators have also provided evidence that confirms the induction of RF-induced cognitive benefits. Furthermore, some recent reports have indicated that RF radiation may play a role in protecting against cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease. In this light, a challenging issue will arise if there are other RF-induced stimulating effects. It is also challenging to explore the potential applications of these effects. Further research may shed light on dark areas of the health effects of short and long-term human exposure to radiofrequency radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Ali Reza Mortazavi
- Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Masoud Haghani
- Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Javad Mortazavi
- Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medical Physics and Medical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Medical Physics & Medical Engineering Department, School of Medicine, Imam Hossein, Shiraz, Iran
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Khullar S, Sood A, Sood S. Auditory Brainstem Responses and EMFs Generated by Mobile Phones. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2013; 65:645-9. [PMID: 24427730 PMCID: PMC3889369 DOI: 10.1007/s12070-013-0676-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a manifold increase in the number of mobile phone users throughout the world with the current number of users exceeding 2 billion. However this advancement in technology like many others is accompanied by a progressive increase in the frequency and intensity of electromagnetic waves without consideration of the health consequences. The aim of our study was to advance our understanding of the potential adverse effects of GSM mobile phones on auditory brainstem responses (ABRs). 60 subjects were selected for the study and divided into three groups of 20 each based on their usage of mobile phones. Their ABRs were recorded and analysed for latency of waves I-V as well as interpeak latencies I-III, I-V and III-V (in ms). Results revealed no significant difference in the ABR parameters between group A (control group) and group B (subjects using mobile phones for maximum 30 min/day for 5 years). However the latency of waves was significantly prolonged in group C (subjects using mobile phones for 10 years for a maximum of 30 min/day) as compared to the control group. Based on our findings we concluded that long term exposure to mobile phones may affect conduction in the peripheral portion of the auditory pathway. However more research needs to be done to study the long term effects of mobile phones particularly of newer technologies like smart phones and 3G.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Khullar
- />Department of Physiology, ESIC Dental College and Hospital, Sector-15, Rohini, Delhi, 110089 India
- />E-605, First Floor, Greater Kailash Part-2, New Delhi, 110048 India
| | - Archana Sood
- />Department of Biochemistry, ESIC Dental College and Hospital, Sector-15, Rohini, Delhi, 110089 India
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Meral I, Tekintangac Y, Demir H. Effects of 900 MHz electromagnetic field emitted by cellular phones on electrocardiograms of guinea pigs. Hum Exp Toxicol 2013; 33:164-9. [PMID: 24220873 DOI: 10.1177/0960327113482596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out to determine the effects of electromagnetic field (EMF) emitted by cellular phones (CPs) on electrocardiograms (ECGs) of guinea pigs. A total of 30 healthy guinea pigs weighing 500-800 g were used. After 1 week of adaptation period, animals were randomly divided into two groups: control group (n = 10) and EMF-exposed group (n = 20). Control guinea pigs were housed in a separate room without exposing them to EMFs of CPs. Animals in second group were exposed to 890-915 MHz EMF (217 Hz of pulse rate, 2 W of maximum peak power and 0.95 wt kg(-1) of specific absorption rate) for 12 h day(-1) (11 h 45 min stand-by and 15 min speaking mode) for 30 days. ECGs of guinea pigs in both the groups were recorded by a direct writing electrocardiograph at the beginning and 10th, 20th and 30th days of the experiment. All ECGs were standardized at 1 mV = 10 mm and with a chart speed of 50 mm sec(-1). Leads I, II, III, lead augmented vector right (aVR), lead augmented vector left (aVL) and lead augmented vector foot (aVF) were recorded. The durations and amplitudes of waves on the trace were measured in lead II. The data were expressed as mean with SEM. It was found that 12 h day(-1) EMF exposure for 30 days did not have any significant effects on ECG findings of guinea pigs. However, this issue needed to be further investigated in a variety of perspectives, such as longer duration of exposure to be able to elucidate the effects of mobile phone-induced EMFs on cardiovascular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Meral
- 1Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Banaceur S, Banasr S, Sakly M, Abdelmelek H. Whole body exposure to 2.4 GHz WIFI signals: effects on cognitive impairment in adult triple transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (3xTg-AD). Behav Brain Res 2012. [PMID: 23195115 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2012.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The present investigation aimed at evaluating the effects of long-term exposure to WIFI type radiofrequency (RF) signals (2.40 GHz), two hours per day during one month at a Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 1.60 W/kg. The effects of RF exposure were studied on wildtype mice and triple transgenic mice (3xTg-AD) destined to develop Alzheimer's-like cognitive impairment. Mice were divided into four groups: two sham groups (WT, TG; n=7) and two exposed groups (WTS, TGS; n=7). The cognitive interference task used in this study was designed from an analogous human cognitive interference task including the Flex field activity system test, the two-compartment box test and the Barnes maze test. Our data demonstrate for the first time that RF improves cognitive behavior of 3xTg-AD mice. We conclude that RF exposure may represent an effective memory-enhancing approach in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana Banaceur
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Intégrée, Faculté des sciences de Bizerte, 7021 Jarzouna, Tunisia.
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Abstract
This paper reviews the value and utility of measuring cognitive function in the development of new medicines by reference to the most widely used automated system in clinical research. Evidence is presented from phase 1 to 3 of the nature and quality of the information that can be obtained by applying the Cognitive Drug Research computerized assessment system to ongoing clinical trials. Valuable evidence can be obtained even in the first trial in which a novel compound is administered to man. One application of such testing is to ensure that novel compounds are relatively free from cognition-impairing properties, particularly in relation to competitor products. Another is to ensure that unwanted interactions with alcohol and other medications do not occur, or, if they do, to put them in context. In many patient populations, cognitive dysfunction occurs as a result of the disease process, and newer medicines which can treat the symptoms of the disease without further impairing function can often reveal benefits as the disease-induced cognitive dysfunction is reduced. Another major application is to identify benefits for compounds designed to enhance cognitive function. Such effects can be sought in typical phase 1 trials, or a scopolamine model of the core deficits of Alzheimer's disease can be used to screen potential antidernentia drugs. Ultimately, of course, such effects can be demonstrated using properly validated and highly sensitive automated procedures in the target populations. The data presented demonstrate that the concept of independently assessing a variety of cognitive functions is crucial in helping differentiate drugs, types of dementia, and different illnesses. Such information offers a unique insight into how the alterations to various cognitive functions will manifest themselves in everyday behavior. This reveals a major limitation of scales that yield a single score, because such limited information does not permit anything but a quantitative interpretation; and the concept of "more" cognitive function or "less" is manifestly inappropriate for something as complex and diverse as the interplay between cognitive function and human behavior. Finally, the next generations of cognitive testing are described. Testing via the telephone has just been introduced and will have dramatic effects on the logistics of conducting cognitive testing in large patient trials. Testing via the Internet is not far off either, and will come fully into play as the proportion of homes connected to the Internet increases in Europe and North America. There are no sound reasons for not wishing to include cognitive function testing in the development protocol of any novel medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Wesnes
- Cognitive Drug Research Ltd, Reading, UK
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Trunk A, Stefanics G, Zentai N, Kovács-Bálint Z, Thuróczy G, Hernádi I. No effects of a single 3G UMTS mobile phone exposure on spontaneous EEG activity, ERP correlates, and automatic deviance detection. Bioelectromagnetics 2012; 34:31-42. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.21740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Vecchio F, Tombini M, Buffo P, Assenza G, Pellegrino G, Benvenga A, Babiloni C, Rossini PM. Mobile phone emission increases inter-hemispheric functional coupling of electroencephalographic alpha rhythms in epileptic patients. Int J Psychophysiol 2012; 84:164-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Revised: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Barutcu I, Esen AM, Kaya D, Turkmen M, Karakaya O, Saglam M, Melek M, Çelik A, Kilit C, Onrat E, Kirma C. Do mobile phones pose a potential risk to autonomic modulation of the heart? PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2012; 34:1511-4. [PMID: 21797894 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2011.03162.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has long been speculated that mobile phones may interact with the cardiac devices and thereby cardiovascular system may be a potential target for the electromagnetic fields emitted by the mobile phones. Therefore, the present study was designed to test possible effects of radiofrequency waves emitted by digital mobile phones on cardiac autonomic modulation by short-time heart rate variability (HRV) analysis. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 20 healthy young subjects were included to the study. All participants were rested in supine position at least for 15 minutes on a comfortable bed, and then time and frequency domain HRV parameters were recorded at baseline in supine position for 5 minutes. After completion of baseline records, by using a mobile GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) phone, HRV parameters were recorded at turned off mode, at turned on mode, and at calling mode over 5 minutes periods for each stage. CONCLUSION Neither time nor frequency domain HRV parameters altered significantly during off mode compare to their baseline values. Also, neither time nor frequency domain HRV parameters altered significantly during turned on and calling mode compared to their baseline values. Short-time exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phone does not affect cardiac autonomic modulation in healthy subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Barutcu
- Avicenna Hospital Department of Cardiology, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Abstract
Mental distractions and physical impairments can increase the risk of accidents by affecting a driver’s ability to control the vehicle. In this article, we developed a linear mathematical model that can be used to quantitatively predict drivers’ performance over a variety of possible driving conditions. Predictions were not limited only to conditions tested, but also included linear combinations of these tests conditions. Two groups of 12 participants were evaluated using a custom drivers’ reaction speed testing device to evaluate the effect of cell phone talking, texting, and a fixed knee brace on the components of drivers’ reaction speed. Cognitive reaction time was found to increase by 24% for cell phone talking and 74% for texting. The fixed knee brace increased musculoskeletal reaction time by 24%. These experimental data were used to develop a mathematical model to predict reaction speed for an untested condition, talking on a cell phone with a fixed knee brace. The model was verified by comparing the predicted reaction speed to measured experimental values from an independent test. The model predicted full braking time within 3% of the measured value. Although only a few influential conditions were evaluated, we present a general approach that can be expanded to include other types of distractions, impairments, and environmental conditions.
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Jing J, Yuhua Z, Xiao-qian Y, Rongping J, Dong-mei G, Xi C. The influence of microwave radiation from cellular phone on fetal rat brain. Electromagn Biol Med 2012; 31:57-66. [DOI: 10.3109/15368378.2011.624652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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36
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Vecchio F, Buffo P, Sergio S, Iacoviello D, Rossini PM, Babiloni C. Mobile phone emission modulates event-related desynchronization of alpha rhythms and cognitive–motor performance in healthy humans. Clin Neurophysiol 2012; 123:121-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2011.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2011] [Revised: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Kwon MS, Vorobyev V, Kännälä S, Laine M, Rinne JO, Toivonen T, Johansson J, Teräs M, Lindholm H, Alanko T, Hämäläinen H. GSM mobile phone radiation suppresses brain glucose metabolism. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2011; 31:2293-301. [PMID: 21915135 PMCID: PMC3323189 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2011.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of mobile phone radiation on cerebral glucose metabolism using high-resolution positron emission tomography (PET) with the (18)F-deoxyglucose (FDG) tracer. A long half-life (109 minutes) of the (18)F isotope allowed a long, natural exposure condition outside the PET scanner. Thirteen young right-handed male subjects were exposed to a pulse-modulated 902.4 MHz Global System for Mobile Communications signal for 33 minutes, while performing a simple visual vigilance task. Temperature was also measured in the head region (forehead, eyes, cheeks, ear canals) during exposure. (18)F-deoxyglucose PET images acquired after the exposure showed that relative cerebral metabolic rate of glucose was significantly reduced in the temporoparietal junction and anterior temporal lobe of the right hemisphere ipsilateral to the exposure. Temperature rise was also observed on the exposed side of the head, but the magnitude was very small. The exposure did not affect task performance (reaction time, error rate). Our results show that short-term mobile phone exposure can locally suppress brain energy metabolism in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myoung Soo Kwon
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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Ng TP, Lim ML, Niti M, Collinson S. Long-term digital mobile phone use and cognitive decline in the elderly. Bioelectromagnetics 2011; 33:176-85. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.20698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Accepted: 07/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Abstract
This review focuses upon the past 8 years of research on hyperthermic effects on behavior. Heat stress and heat stoke become severe conditions when body temperatures exceed 40°C as this can lead to delirium, convulsions, coma, and death. The animal literature indicates that hyperthermia can increase glutamatergic and decrease GABAergic neurotransmission. Interestingly, µ-opiate receptor antagonists can attenuate the morphological and biochemical changes in brain, as well as, ameliorate some behavioral deficits induced by heart stress. In humans, heat stress can produce detrimental effects on motor and cognitive performance. Since most cognitive tasks require a motor response, some cognitive deficiencies may be attributed to decreased motor performance. Although hyperthermia may exert more deleterious effects on complex than simple cognitive tasks, systematic studies are needed to examine the effects of different levels and durations of hyperthermia (irrespective of dehydration) on cognition. Additionally, body temperatures should be carefully monitored where controls are run for baseline or brief exposures to a hyperthermic environment. Acute radiofrequency exposure can disrupt behavior when body temperatures increase >1°C with whole body SAR between 3.2-8.4 W/kg and time-averaged power densities at 8-140 mW/cm(2). Effects of lower levels of radiation are conflicting and some experiments fail to replicate even with the original investigators. This suggests either that brief exposure to the radiation is at a threshold where some individuals are affected while others are not, or that these levels are innocuous. Nevertheless, thermal changes appear to account for almost all of the behavioral effects reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- William C Wetsel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Barth A, Ponocny I, Gnambs T, Winker R. No effects of short-term exposure to mobile phone electromagnetic fields on human cognitive performance: a meta-analysis. Bioelectromagnetics 2011; 33:159-65. [PMID: 21853449 DOI: 10.1002/bem.20697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 07/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
During recent years, a large number of studies on the effects of electromagnetic fields emitted by cellular mobile phones on human cognitive performance have been carried out. However, the results have been ambiguous. We carried out the current meta-analysis in order to investigate the impact of electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones on human cognition. Seventeen studies were included in the meta-analysis as they fulfill several requirements such as single- or double-blind experimental study design, and documentation of means and standard deviations of dependent variables. The meta-analysis was carried out as a group comparison between exposed and non-exposed subjects. No significant effects of electromagnetic fields emitted by Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) mobile phones were found. Cognitive abilities seem to be neither impaired nor facilitated. Results of the meta-analysis suggest that a substantial short-term impact of high frequency electromagnetic fields emitted by mobile phones on cognitive performance can essentially be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfred Barth
- Institute of Working and Organisational Psychology, UMIT-University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Linz, Austria.
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41
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Wallace D, Eltiti S, Ridgewell A, Garner K, Russo R, Sepulveda F, Walker S, Quinlan T, Dudley S, Maung S, Deeble R, Fox E. Cognitive and physiological responses in humans exposed to a TETRA base station signal in relation to perceived electromagnetic hypersensitivity. Bioelectromagnetics 2011; 33:23-39. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.20681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Electromagnetic field effect or simply stress? Effects of UMTS exposure on hippocampal longterm plasticity in the context of procedure related hormone release. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19437. [PMID: 21573218 PMCID: PMC3088670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Harmful effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on cognitive and behavioural features of humans and rodents have been controversially discussed and raised persistent concern about adverse effects of EMF on general brain functions. In the present study we applied radio-frequency (RF) signals of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) to full brain exposed male Wistar rats in order to elaborate putative influences on stress hormone release (corticosteron; CORT and adrenocorticotropic hormone; ACTH) and on hippocampal derived synaptic long-term plasticity (LTP) and depression (LTD) as electrophysiological hallmarks for memory storage and memory consolidation. Exposure was computer controlled providing blind conditions. Nominal brain-averaged specific absorption rates (SAR) as a measure of applied mass-related dissipated RF power were 0, 2, and 10 W/kg over a period of 120 min. Comparison of cage exposed animals revealed, regardless of EMF exposure, significantly increased CORT and ACTH levels which corresponded with generally decreased field potential slopes and amplitudes in hippocampal LTP and LTD. Animals following SAR exposure of 2 W/kg (averaged over the whole brain of 2.3 g tissue mass) did not differ from the sham-exposed group in LTP and LTD experiments. In contrast, a significant reduction in LTP and LTD was observed at the high power rate of SAR (10 W/kg). The results demonstrate that a rate of 2 W/kg displays no adverse impact on LTP and LTD, while 10 W/kg leads to significant effects on the electrophysiological parameters, which can be clearly distinguished from the stress derived background. Our findings suggest that UMTS exposure with SAR in the range of 2 W/kg is not harmful to critical markers for memory storage and memory consolidation, however, an influence of UMTS at high energy absorption rates (10 W/kg) cannot be excluded.
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SCHMID MARCR, LOUGHRAN SARAHP, REGEL SABINEJ, MURBACH MANUEL, BRATIC GRUNAUER ALEKSANDRA, RUSTERHOLZ THOMAS, BERSAGLIERE ALESSIA, KUSTER NIELS, ACHERMANN PETER. Sleep EEG alterations: effects of different pulse-modulated radio frequency electromagnetic fields. J Sleep Res 2011; 21:50-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2869.2011.00918.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Hareuveny R, Eliyahu I, Luria R, Meiran N, Margaliot M. Cognitive effects of cellular phones: A possible role of non-radiofrequency radiation factors. Bioelectromagnetics 2011; 32:585-8. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.20671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Suresh S, Sabanayagam C, Kalidindi S, Shankar A. Cell-phone use and self-reported hypertension: national health interview survey 2008. Int J Hypertens 2011; 2011:360415. [PMID: 21629867 PMCID: PMC3095917 DOI: 10.4061/2011/360415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Revised: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. Cell-phone usage has increased dramatically over the last decade, along with a rising public concern over the health effects of using this device. The association between cell-phone usage and hypertension has not been examined before. Methods. We analysed data from 21,135 adults aged ≥18 years who participated in the 2008 National Health Interview Survey. Based on reported cell-phone use, participants were categorized as cell-phone nonusers, predominantly landline users, dual users of cell phone and landline, and predominantly cell-phone users. The main outcome of interest was self-reported physician-diagnosed hypertension (n = 6,793). Results. 43.5% of the participants were cell-phone nonusers, while 13.8% were predominantly cell-phone users. We found that cell-phone use was inversely associated with hypertension, independent of age, sex, race/ethnicity, smoking, alcohol consumption, education, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity. Compared to cell-phone nonusers, the multivariable odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of hypertension was 0.86 (0.75-0.98, P trend = .005) among predominantly cell-phone users. This inverse association between cell-phone use and hypertension was stronger in women, those aged <60 years, whites, and those with BMI <25 kg/m(2). Conclusion. We found that cell-phone usage was protectively associated with self-reported hypertension in a nationally representative sample of US adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivaranjani Suresh
- University Scholars Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119260
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Juutilainen J, Höytö A, Kumlin T, Naarala J. Review of possible modulation-dependent biological effects of radiofrequency fields. Bioelectromagnetics 2011; 32:511-34. [PMID: 21480304 DOI: 10.1002/bem.20652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jukka Juutilainen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
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Regel SJ, Achermann P. Cognitive performance measures in bioelectromagnetic research--critical evaluation and recommendations. Environ Health 2011; 10:10. [PMID: 21266038 PMCID: PMC3041732 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-10-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The steady increase of mobile phone usage has led to a rising concern about possible adverse health effects of radio frequency electromagnetic field (RF EMF) exposure at intensities even below the existing safety limits. Accumulating evidence suggests that pulse-modulated RF EMF may alter brain physiology. Yet, whereas effects on the human electroencephalogram in waking and sleep have repeatedly been shown in recent years, results on cognitive performance are inconsistent. METHODS This review compares 41 provocation studies regarding the effects of RF EMF exposure similar to mobile telephones on cognitive performance measures in humans. The studies were identified via systematic searches of the databases Pub Med and ISI Web of Science and were published in peer-reviewed journals between 1998 and the end of 2009. RESULTS Based on a critical discussion within the scope of methodological standards it is concluded that state-of-the-art-methods in bio-electromagnetic research on RF EMF effects and cognition have neither been specified nor fully implemented over the last 10-11 years. The lack of a validated tool, which reliably assesses changes in cognitive performance caused by RF EMF exposure, may contribute to the current inconsistencies in outcomes. The high variety of findings may also be due to methodological issues such as differences in sample size and the composition of study groups, experimental design, exposure setup as well as the exposure conditions, and emphasizes the need for a standardized protocol in bioelectromagnetic research. CONCLUSIONS At present, no underlying biological mechanism has been identified which mediates the effects on brain functioning as observed in electroencephalographic (EEG) studies. A future aim must be to identify this mechanism as well as a reliable exposure protocol in order to gain more insights into possible behavioral and related health consequences of high-frequency EMF exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine J Regel
- University of Zurich, Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Achermann
- University of Zurich, Institute of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, Institute of Physiology, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Neuroscience Center Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Kwon MS, Hämäläinen H. Effects of mobile phone electromagnetic fields: Critical evaluation of behavioral and neurophysiological studies. Bioelectromagnetics 2010; 32:253-72. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.20635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2010] [Accepted: 11/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Sauter C, Dorn H, Bahr A, Hansen ML, Peter A, Bajbouj M, Danker-Hopfe H. Effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields emitted by GSM 900 and WCDMA mobile phones on cognitive function in young male subjects. Bioelectromagnetics 2010; 32:179-90. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.20623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Revised: 09/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Effects of GSM signals during exposure to event related potentials (ERPs). Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2010; 23:191-9. [PMID: 20682490 DOI: 10.2478/v10001-010-0021-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this work was to assess the effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) from the GSM mobile phone system on human brain function. The assessment was based on the assay of event related potentials (ERPs). MATERIAL AND METHODS The study group consisted of 15 volunteers, including 7 men and 8 women. The test protocol comprised determination of P300 wave in each volunteer during exposure to the EMF. To eliminate possible effects of the applied test procedure on the final result, the test was repeated without EMF exposure. P300 latency, amplitude, and latency of the N1, N2, P2 waves were analysed. RESULTS The statistical analysis revealed an effect of EMF on P300 amplitude. In the experiment with EMF exposure, lower P300 amplitudes were observed only at the time in which the volunteers were exposed to EMF; when the exposure was discontinued, the values of the amplitude were the same as those observed before EMF application. No such change was observed when the experiment was repeated with sham exposure, which may be considered as an indirect proof that lower P300 amplitude values were due to EMF exposure. No statistically significant changes were noted in the latencies of the N1, N2, P2 waves that precede the P300 wave, nor in the latency of the P300 itself. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that exposure to GSM EMF exerts some effects on CNS, including effects on long latency ERPs.
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