Effects Of Non-ionizing Electromagnetic Fields Research Articles

Cellular and molecular effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields.

The way that living cells respond to non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF), including static/extremely-low frequency and radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, fits the pattern of 'cellular stress response'- a mechanism manifest at the cellular level intended to preserve the entire organism. It is a set pattern of cellular and molecular responses to environmental stressors, such as heat, ionizing radiation, oxidation, etc. It is triggered by cellular macromolecular damage (in proteins, lipids, and DNA) with the goal of repairing and returning cell functions to homeostasis. The pattern is independent of the type of stressor encountered. It involves cell cycle arrest, induction of specific molecular mechanisms for repair, damage removal, cell proliferation, and cell death if damage is too great. This response could be triggered by EMF-induced alternation in oxidative processes in cells. The concept that biological response to EMF is a 'cellular stress response' explains many observed effects of EMF, such as nonlinear dose- and time-dependency, increased and decreased risks of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, enhanced nerve regeneration, and bone healing. These responses could be either detrimental or beneficial to health, depending on the duration and intensity of the exposure, as well as specific aspects ofthe living organism being exposed. A corollary to electromagnetic hypersensitivity syndrome (EHS) could be an inappropriate response of the hippocampus/limbic system to EMF, involving glucocorticoids on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.

Biological Effects of Non-Ionizing Electromagnetic Fields at 27 GHz on Sperm Quality of Mytilus galloprovincialis

Recently, an increasing use of wireless internet technologies has been demonstrated. The devices which use these technologies emit in new spectral regions an electromagnetic radiation (EMF) which could interact with the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to investigate in vitro the effect of electromagnetic fields at 27 GHz on sperm quality in Mytilus galloprovincialis. Sperm samples were collected from sexually mature males of M. galloprovincialis and placed in seawater. Once we evaluated the number and quality of spermatozoa, sperm cells were exposed to electromagnetic fields radiated by a pyramidal horn antenna. The effect of exposure was evaluated after 10, 20, 30, 40 and 60 min by a light microscope and using an Eosin test. Ten replications were performed for each time series, and statistical analysis was carried out by t-test. Sperm motility decreased after 10 min of exposure, and after 30 min most of the spermatozoa were immobile and not vital. This study provides useful data on the potential ecological impact of the high-band 5G on animal fertility, the effect of which is currently under investigation.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, Part 3. Exposure standards, public policy, laws, and future directions.

Due to the continuous rising ambient levels of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs) used in modern societies-primarily from wireless technologies-that have now become a ubiquitous biologically active environmental pollutant, a new vision on how to regulate such exposures for non-human species at the ecosystem level is needed. Government standards adopted for human exposures are examined for applicability to wildlife. Existing environmental laws, such as the National Environmental Policy Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the U.S. and others used in Canada and throughout Europe, should be strengthened and enforced. New laws should be written to accommodate the ever-increasing EMF exposures. Radiofrequency radiation exposure standards that have been adopted by worldwide agencies and governments warrant more stringent controls given the new and unusual signaling characteristics used in 5G technology. No such standards take wildlife into consideration. Many species of flora and fauna, because of distinctive physiologies, have been found sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that surpass human reactivity. Such exposures may now be capable of affecting endogenous bioelectric states in some species. Numerous studies across all frequencies and taxa indicate that low-level EMF exposures have numerous adverse effects, including on orientation, migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance, defense, vitality, longevity, and survivorship. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have long been observed. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. A robust dialog regarding technology's high-impact role in the nascent field of electroecology needs to commence. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards should be set accordingly for wildlife, including, but not limited to, the redesign of wireless devices, as well as infrastructure, in order to reduce the rising ambient levels (explored in Part 1). Possible environmental approaches are discussed. This is Part 3 of a three-part series.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, Part 2 impacts: how species interact with natural and man-made EMF.

Ambient levels of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last five decades to become a ubiquitous, continuous, biologically active environmental pollutant, even in rural and remote areas. Many species of flora and fauna, because of unique physiologies and habitats, are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that surpass human reactivity. This can lead to complex endogenous reactions that are highly variable, largely unseen, and a possible contributing factor in species extinctions, sometimes localized. Non-human magnetoreception mechanisms are explored. Numerous studies across all frequencies and taxa indicate that current low-level anthropogenic EMF can have myriad adverse and synergistic effects, including on orientation and migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance and defense, and on vitality, longevity and survivorship itself. Effects have been observed in mammals such as bats, cervids, cetaceans, and pinnipeds among others, and on birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, microbes and many species of flora. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have long been observed in laboratory research on animal models that can be extrapolated to wildlife. Unusual multi-system mechanisms can come into play with non-human species - including in aquatic environments - that rely on the Earth's natural geomagnetic fields for critical life-sustaining information. Part 2 of this 3-part series includes four online supplement tables of effects seen in animals from both ELF and RFR at vanishingly low intensities. Taken as a whole, this indicates enough information to raise concerns about ambient exposures to nonionizing radiation at ecosystem levels. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced - a subject explored in Part 3.

Effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on flora and fauna, part 1. Rising ambient EMF levels in the environment.

Ambient levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF) have risen sharply in the last 80 years, creating a novel energetic exposure that previously did not exist. Most recent decades have seen exponential increases in nearly all environments, including rural/remote areas and lower atmospheric regions. Because of unique physiologies, some species of flora and fauna are sensitive to exogenous EMF in ways that may surpass human reactivity. There is limited, but comprehensive, baseline data in the U.S. from the 1980s against which to compare significant new surveys from different countries. This now provides broader and more precise data on potential transient and chronic exposures to wildlife and habitats. Biological effects havebeen seen broadly across all taxa and frequencies at vanishingly low intensities comparable to today's ambient exposures. Broad wildlife effects have been seen on orientation and migration, food finding, reproduction, mating, nest and den building, territorial maintenance anddefense, and longevity and survivorship. Cyto- and geno-toxic effects have been observed. The above issues are explored in three consecutive parts: Part 1 questions today's ambient EMF capabilities to adversely affect wildlife, with more urgency regarding 5G technologies. Part 2 explores natural and man-made fields, animal magnetoreception mechanisms, and pertinent studies to all wildlife kingdoms. Part 3 examines current exposure standards, applicable laws, and future directions. It is time to recognize ambient EMF as a novel form of pollution and develop rules at regulatory agencies that designate air as 'habitat' so EMF can be regulated like other pollutants. Wildlife loss is often unseen and undocumented until tipping points are reached. Long-term chronic low-level EMF exposure standards, which do not now exist, should be set accordingly for wildlife, and environmental laws should be strictly enforced.

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD INFLUENCES ON HUMAN HEALTH

The environment we live in is exposed to the increasing and increasing frequency of electromagnetic radiation in our homes and workplaces. In addition to natural radiation from the sun, radiation sources such as high-voltage transmission lines and powerful radar devices are sources of strong electric and magnetic fields. Increasing the number of portable communication and entertainment devices also increase the human body's exposure to additional electromagnetic radiation. This paper describes the most common effects of low-frequency non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (ELFs), which can cause biological changes, sometimes negative for human health. Different methods and approaches are used to investigate the effect of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on biological systems. In vitro cell culture studies provide important insights into the underlying mechanisms of biological effects of low radiation levels. It is often not possible to deduce the functional response of a human organism to a particular biological effect. In vivo animal and human studies provide more convincing evidence of possible adverse health effects. There is a problem with the extrapolation of the results obtained from animal experiments to humans. Epidemiological studies provide the most direct information on the risk of adverse effects in humans. However, it is difficult to find good control groups that in all aspects (gender, similar life habits, etc.) fit the exposed groups. Care should be taken in interpreting the results of epidemiological studies, especially if low risk is found, as this may be due to other factors. Epidemiological studies are important for monitoring the impact of new technologies on human health [1].

Is MRI imaging in pediatric age totally safe? A critical reprisal.

Current radiological literature is strongly focussed on radiation imaging risks. Indeed, given there is a small but actual augment in cancer risk from exposure to ionizing radiation in children, it is important to understand what the risk of alternative techniques could be. We retrospectively review literature data concerning possible MR imaging risks, focussing on the biological effects of MR, sedation and gadolinium compound risks when dealing with infant patients. The main concerns can be summarized in: (1) Biological effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) employed-whose mechanisms of interaction with human tissues are polarization, induced current, and thermal heating, respectively. (2) Risks associated with noises produced during MRI examinations. (3) Hazards from ferromagnetic external and/or implanted devices-whose risk of being unintentionally brought inside MR room is higher in children than in adults. (4) Risks associated with sedation or general anaesthesia, essential problem in performing MR in very young patients, due to the exam long-lasting. (5) Risks related to gadolinium-based contrast agents, especially considering the newly reported brain deposition.

Genotoxic and carcinogenic effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields

New technologies in electronics and communications are continually emerging. An increasing use of these electronic devices such as mobile phone, computer, wireless fidelity connectors or cellular towers is raising questions concerning whether they have an adverse effect on the body. Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) is frequently suggested to have adverse health effects on humans and other organisms. This idea has been reported in many studies. In contrast, the therapeutic effects of EMF on different organs have also been reported. Research findings are inconsistent. This has given rise to very profound discrepancies. The duration and frequency of mobile phone calls and the association observed with various health effects has raised serious concerns due to the frequency with which these devices are used and the way they are held close to the head. The present review assesses the results of in vitro, in vivo, experimental, and epidemiological studies. The purpose of the study is to assess data concerning the carcinogenic and genotoxic effects of non-ionizing EMF. The major genotoxic and carcinogenic effects of EMF, divided into subsections as low frequency effects and radiofrequency effects, were reviewed. The inconsistent results between similar studies and the same research groups have made it very difficult to make any comprehensive interpretation. However, evaluation of current studies suggests that EMF may represent a serious source of concern and may be hazardous to living organisms.

Semi-quantitative proteomics of mammalian cells upon short-term exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic fields.

The potential effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs), such as those emitted by power-lines (in extremely low frequency range), mobile cellular systems and wireless networking devices (in radio frequency range) on human health have been intensively researched and debated. However, how exposure to these EMFs may lead to biological changes underlying possible health effects is still unclear. To reveal EMF-induced molecular changes, unbiased experiments (without a priori focusing on specific biological processes) with sensitive readouts are required. We present the first proteome-wide semi-quantitative mass spectrometry analysis of human fibroblasts, osteosarcomas and mouse embryonic stem cells exposed to three types of non-ionizing EMFs (ELF 50 Hz, UMTS 2.1 GHz and WiFi 5.8 GHz). We performed controlled in vitro EMF exposures of metabolically labeled mammalian cells followed by reliable statistical analyses of differential protein- and pathway-level regulations using an array of established bioinformatics methods. Our results indicate that less than 1% of the quantitated human or mouse proteome responds to the EMFs by small changes in protein abundance. Further network-based analysis of the differentially regulated proteins did not detect significantly perturbed cellular processes or pathways in human and mouse cells in response to ELF, UMTS or WiFi exposure. In conclusion, our extensive bioinformatics analyses of semi-quantitative mass spectrometry data do not support the notion that the short-time exposures to non-ionizing EMFs have a consistent biologically significant bearing on mammalian cells in culture.

A novel model of interaction between high frequency electromagnetic non-ionizing fields and microtubules viewed as coupled two-degrees of freedom harmonic oscillators.

The question regarding the potential biological and adverse health effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields on living organisms is of primary importance in biophysics and medicine. Despite the several experimental evidences showing such occurrence in a wide frequency range from extremely low frequency to microwaves, a definitive theoretical model able to explain a possible mechanism of interaction between electromagnetic fields and living matter, especially in the case of weak and very weak intensities, is still missing. In this paper it has been suggested a possible mechanism of interaction involving the resonant absorption of electromagnetic radiation by microtubules. To this aim these have been modeled as non-dissipative forced harmonic oscillators characterized by two coupled "macroscopic" degrees of freedom, respectively describing longitudinal and transversal vibrations induced by the electromagnetic field. We have shown that the proposed model, although at a preliminary stage, is able to explain the ability of even weak electromagnetic radiating electromagnetic fields to transfer high quantities of energy to living systems by means of a resonant mechanism, so capable to easily damage microtubules structure.

The toxic effects of mobile phone radiofrequency (940 MHz) on the structure of calf thymus DNA

Currently, the biological effects of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs) including radiofrequency (RF) radiation have been the subject of numerous experimental and theoretical studies. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible biological effects of mobile phone RF (940MHz, 15V/m and SAR=40mW/kg) on the structure of calf thymus DNA (ct DNA) immediately after exposure and 2h after 45min exposure via diverse range of spectroscopic instruments. The UV–vis and circular dichroism (CD) experiments depict that mobile phone EMFs can remarkably cause disturbance on ct DNA structure. In addition, the DNA samples, immediately after exposure and 2h after 45min exposure, are relatively thermally unstable compared to the DNA solution, which was placed in a small shielded box (unexposed ct DNA). Furthermore, the exposed DNA samples (the DNA samples that were exposed to 940MHz EMF) have more fluorescence emission when compared with the unexposed DNA, which may have occurred attributable to expansion of the exposed DNA structure. The results of dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential experiments demonstrate that RF-EMFs lead to increment in the surface charge and size of DNA. The structure of DNA immediately after exposure is not significantly different from the DNA sample 2h after 45min exposure. In other words, the EMF-induced conformational changes are irreversible. Collectively, our results reveal that 940MHz can alter the structure of DNA. The displacement of electrons in DNA by EMFs may lead to conformational changes of DNA and DNA disaggregation. Results from this study could have an important implication on the health effects of RF-EMFs exposure. In addition, this finding could proffer a novel strategy for the development of next generation of mobile phone.

Electromagnetic field (EMF) effects on channel activity of nanopore OmpF protein

In this study, the effects of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF; 925 MHz) on the OmpF porin channel have been characterized at the single-channel level. Channel activity was recorded in real time by the voltage clamp method. Our results showed an increase in the frequency of channel gating and voltage sensitivity. The effects of EMF lasted for several milliseconds after the field source was terminated. However, the conductance levels of channels did not change significantly. Thermal effects of EMF on single-channel properties are a possible cause, based on theoretical evaluation of results that were comparable to those seen in conventional experiments at different temperatures. We conclude that EMF affects both the dynamics and conformation of the channel, either directly by affecting critical amino acid side-chain arrangement, or indirectly, via the electrolyte or the lipid membrane.

Light, literacy and the absence of ultraviolet radiation in the development of myopia

As the prevalence of myopia steadily increases, reaching as high as 90% in some populations, investigators continue to look for causative factors other than family history. Most current research suggests an association of axial myopia with reading or either the presence or absence of light. Even though these studies are frequently inconsistent, non-reproducible or contradictory, many clinicians utilize them in recommending treatments for children, such as bifocals or atropine. By reviewing the biologic effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields, we may gain insight into these discrepancies as well as unify the combined role of literacy and light in the pathogenesis of myopia. These biologic effects are wavelength specific. The wavelength of artificial (either incandescent or fluorescent) light is primarily 700-400 nm, while the wavelength of natural light is 700-200 nm, inclusive of the ultraviolet spectrum. So the opposite findings of myopia resulting from either accommodation under continuous light or under darkness (form deprivation) can be reconciled by restating it: Close focusing in the absence of UV light may provoke axial myopia. Experimental evidence exhibiting both scleral remodeling under accommodation as well as the inhibition of scleral remodeling by the hardening of collagen under ultraviolet exposure may support this concept. Perhaps new research can look into the role of the presence or absence of UV light in animal models of myopia.

Risk, Controversy, and Rhetoric: Response to Goodnight

It makes sense to use controversy as a way for argumentation and rhetorical studies to contribute to study of science and technology, for controversy is central to both. Controversy provides occasions and strategies for rhetoric. Contrarianism is of essence in rhetoric, according to Thomas Sloane (3), and he draws out its presence throughout rhetorical tradition--in disputation, Ciceronian controversia, pro and con thinking, dissoi logoi, Erasmian via diversa, argument in utramque partem, and so forth. Burke puts idea a little differently, emphasizing divisions that make rhetoric necessary: the Scramble, Wrangle of MarketPlace, flurries and flare-ups of Human Barnyard, Give and Take, ... Logomachy (23). Although traditional views of science held that scientific method obviates controversy, more recent views put controversy at center of scientific progress. (1) Karl Popper, for example, characterized science as conjectures and refutations, reasoning that because we cannot verify a proposition by any number of observations, we instead conjecture, or jump to conclusions from a limited number of observations and then subject conclusion to subsequent observations in an attempt to falsify or refute it. Thomas Kuhn described science as a sequence of activities, from normal puzzle-solving and accumulation of anomalies to crisis and revolution, with controversy characterizing last two of these. As Professor Goodnight notes, other STS scholars have emphasized policy issues and public controversies that science and technology can instigate. Controversy thus can be seen both as an engine internal to science and as an external consequence of its epistemic innovations (and artifactual innovations of technology) as they diffuse beyond forums and enclaves of scientific community and skunk-works of technological RD lawsuits and public hearings open files; disagreements between experts disturb seamless surface of unquestioned facts; competition between proprietors or between products challenges culturally embedded technical systems. But Professor Goodnight means to point out more than these possibly commonplace notions about how controversy makes rhetorical study of science and technology possible. Controversy, he emphasizes, also is persistent condition that makes such studies useful and important, both in understanding continuing operations of modernity and in addressing critical public problems. In what follows, I offer some observations based on two recent studies of my own that substantiate some of Professor Goodnight's contentions and suggest some additions to his agenda. I've looked in some detail at nuclear power controversy of 1970s and at more recent controversy about biological effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs) (Presumptions; Novelty). The early controversy over nuclear power is represented in 1975 Reactor Safety Study, also known as Rasmussen report, prepared for Atomic Energy Commission. Now understood as first real risk analysis, it was begun in anticipation of Congressional controversy over renewal of Price-Anderson Act, which protected electric utilities from liability in case of a nuclear reactor accident. The report, however, did little to quell controversy, but rather became a subject of controversy itself, both inside and outside expert community. In one sense, this controversy was lost by experts to public opinion and economic conditions: although Price-Anderson Act was renewed in late 1975, nuclear power became a moribund technology, with no new plants ordered after 1978 and all 41 orders placed after 1973 canceled or rejected by state regulators. (3) In another sense, however, experts prevailed in making risk analysis methods of Rasmussen report basis for decision making in a large number of other areas of science-based controversy. …

Electromagnetic Fields: Lai’s Response

I agree with Stevens that free radicals and changes in oxidative state in cells could play an important mediating role in some biological effects of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs), such as DNA damage. Certainly, cellular iron metabolism affects these processes. Genetic damage in cells can lead to malignancy and cancer. However, excessive cumulative genetic damages could also result in cell death. One possibility is that EMFs may be useful in treating cancer.

Understanding conditions for which biological effects of nonionizing electromagnetic fields can be expected

Scientific interest in the interaction of nonionizing electromagnetic fields with biological systems is longstanding, but often still controversial. Theories, models and computer simulations have usually emphasized physical interactions with subsystems (e.g. cell membranes) of a biological system. By extending this first necessary physical step to a second step of explicitly and quantitatively considering chemical changes, increased understanding appears possible. In the case of “strong fields”, the role of field-altered chemistry is important to electrochemotherapy [Biochem. Pharmacol. 42, Suppl. (1991) 567] and creation of transdermal microconduits [Bioelectrochem. Bioenerg. 49 (1999) 11; J. Controlled Release 61 (1999) 185; J. Invest. Dermatol. 116 (2001) 40] For “weak fields” (a topic with much more controversy) consideration of chemical change shows that organized multicellular systems can be understood to respond to extremely small electric [Chaos 8 (1998) 576] or magnetic fields [Nature 405 (2000) 707]. In contrast, isolated individual cells interacting via voltage-gated channels [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 92 (1995) 3740; Biophys. J. 75 (1998) 2251; Bioelectromagnetics 20 (1999) 102], or processes without “temperature compensation” [Biophys. J. 76 (1999) 3026], appear implausible. Satisfactory understanding is likely only if experimental and theoretical work is reconciled, which should therefore be emphasized. The interaction of electromagnetic fields with biological systems is of interest because of fundamental scientific curiosity, potential medical benefits and possible human health hazards.