Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure Research Articles

Effects of non-ionizing radio frequency electromagnetic radiation on the development and behavior of early embryos of Danio rerio

ABSTRACT Biological effects of radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) in the range of 900–1800 MHz emerging from the mobile phone were investigated and were found to influence the locomotor pattern when exposure was initiated from 1 hour post fertilization (hpf) in zebrafish embryos (ZE), Danio rerio. Mobile phones and other wireless devices offer tremendous advantages. However, on the flipside they are leading to an increased electromagnetic energy in the environment, an excess of which could be termed as electromagnetic pollution. Herein, we tried to understand the effects of RF-EMR emerging from the mobile phone, on the development and behavior of ZE, exposed to RF-EMR (specific absorption rate of 1.13 W/kg and 1800 MHz frequency) 1 hr daily, for 5 days. To understand if there could be any developmental stage-specific vulnerability to RF-EMR, the exposure was initiated at three different time points: 1hpf, 6hpf and 24hpf of ZE development. Observations revealed no significant changes in the survival rate, morphology, oxidative stress or cortisol levels. However, statistically significant variations were observed in the batch where exposure started at 1hpf, with respect to locomotion patterns (distance travelled: 659.1 ± 173.1 mm Vs 963.5 ± 200.4 mm), which could be correlated to anxiety-like behavior; along with a corresponding increase in yolk consumption (yolk sac area: 0.251 ± 0.019 mm2 Vs 0.225 ± 0.018 mm2). Therefore, we conclude that RF-EMR exposure influences the organism maximally during the earliest stage of development, and we also believe that an increase in the time of exposure (corresponding to the patterns of current usage of mobile phones) might reveal added afflictions.

Panax ginseng Ameliorates Pituitary-Ovarian Dysfunction Induced by Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation from Cell Phones via Upregulation of the CREM Signaling Pathway.

Panax ginseng (PG) is a plant that contains ginsenosides, which are considered adaptogens that confer cellular protection. However, the impact of PG on pituitary-ovarian dysfunction and subsequent infertility is unknown. This study investigated the hypothesis that PG would attenuate pituitary-ovarian dysfunction associated with mobile phone's Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation (RF-EMR) in experimental rat models and the possible involvement of a cAMP Response Element Modulator (CREM)-dependent pathway. Twenty adult female Wistar rats were divided randomly into four groups, each consisting of five rats. The control group was administered a vehicle (distilled water) orally, while the P. ginseng group received 200 mg/kg of P. ginseng extract orally. The RF-EMR group was exposed to 900MHz radiation, and the RF-EMR + PG group was exposed to the same radiation while also being treated with 200 mg/kg of P. ginseng orally. These treatments were administered daily for a period of 56 days. The RF-EMR group exhibited significant reductions in serum levels of LH, FSH, estradiol, and progesterone compared to the control group. Moreover, levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly lower in the RF-EMR group compared to the control. Additionally, there was a notable decrease in the expression of the CREM gene, accompanied by disrupted pituitary/ovarian morphology in the RF-EMR group compared to the control. However, the administration of PG mitigated these changes. The findings of this study indicate that P. ginseng extract shields against pituitary-ovarian impairment linked to RF-EMR exposure from cell phones by boosting antioxidant capacity and promoting the CREM-dependent pathway.

The effect of 6GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on rat pain perception

ABSTRACT This paper presents data on pain perception in rats exposed to 6 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). Rats were divided into two groups: control (n = 10, 4 replicates per test) and RF-EMR exposed group (n = 10, 4 replicates per test). Nociceptive responses of the groups were measured using rodent analgesiometry. Rats were divided into control and RF-EMR exposed groups. Nociceptive responses were measured using rodent analgesiometry. RF-EMR exposed rats had a 15% delay in responding to hot plate thermal stimulation compared to unexposed rats. The delay in responding to radiant heat thermal stimulation was 21%. We determined that RF-EMR promoted the occurrence of pressure pain as statistical significance by + 42% (p < 0.001). We observed that RF-EMR exposure increased nociceptive pain by + 35% by promoting cold plate stimulation (p < 0.05). RF-EMR exposure did not affect thermal preference as statistical significance but did support the formation of pressure pain perception.

Effect of 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation emitted from mobile phone on testicular immunity and the associated risk of testicular germ cell tumor

The emission of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) from mobile phones has been implicated in causing inflammatory changes in the testis. Nevertheless, the direct association of these changes with the development of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) remains unclear. Therefore, we purposed to investigate the effect of RF-EMR exposure on inflammatory changes in the testis, cytokine gene expression levels, and the incidence of TGCT. Twenty male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to either the study or control groups. The study group was exposed to RF-EMR at 900 MHz, 26 V/m, and a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 0.14 W/kg for 4 h/day over 8 weeks. Histopathological analysis, vitality analysis using Annexin V, and real-time polymerase chain reaction for the analysis of interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-4, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interferon-gamma (IFN-&amp;gamma;) cytokine gene expressions were performed on the testicular tissue. The median testis weight (163.0 g [133.0 &amp;ndash; 183.0] vs. 179.0 g [134.0 &amp;ndash; 195.0], P = 0.012) and volume (0.95 cm3 [0.800 &amp;ndash; 1.400] vs. 1.100 cm3 [1.050 &amp;ndash; 1.500], P = 0.031) of the study group were significantly lower compared to the control group. The seminiferous tubule damage (P &lt; 0.001) and interstitial edema (P = 0.042) were significantly higher in the study group. The tunica albuginea thickness was significantly reduced in the study group (P &lt; 0.001). The fold changes in the expression levels of IL-4 and IFN-&amp;gamma; increased significantly in the study group. Our findings indicate that RF-EMR exposure causes structural, histopathological, and inflammatory toxic effects on the testis. The observed elevation in gene expression levels of IL-4 and IFN-&amp;gamma; cytokines following RF-EMR exposure suggests their potential role as regulators of TGCT initiation, thereby offering a viable potential therapeutic target in combination with current treatments. Nonetheless, future well-designed studies are necessary to validate our findings.

(304) Effects of Wireless Radiation Exposure on Genetic Variants in Human Sperm: A Preliminary Prospective Study

Abstract Introduction In the present era, the extensive use of modern cell phones has raised the health risks associated with the radiofrequency-electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) they emit, which the human body can absorb. RF-EMR exposure can potentially harm the process of spermatogenesis by increasing oxidative stress, elevating mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and triggering the formation of free radicals that leads to sperm DNA damage. Our previous research revealed decreased sperm motility and viability in semen samples exposed to RF-EMR through WiFi calling. Objective To investigate the effects of WiFi radiation on genetic variants in human sperm using current-generation smartphones. Methods Six healthy, normozoospermic men aged 25-35 provided semen samples for this study. A current generation smartphone was used in WiFi calling mode, specifically through Whatsapp voice call, to serve as the source of RF-EMR. The call duration was six hours. Semen samples were analyzed based on the 2010 WHO guidelines before and after the radiation exposure. The genomics facility at our university extracted DNA from semen samples of each participant before and after RF-EMR exposure to perform whole exome sequencing with alignment to the reference genome. After sequencing, we compared genetic variants for each participant before and after RF-EMR exposure. Results After six hours of exposure, a significant decrease in sperm progressive motility was observed (p&amp;lt;0.05). Following exposure, the median number of exonic, nonsynonymous variants absent before exposure increased to 4 (IQR 3). Across the four successfully sequenced samples, we found 20 new, exonic, nonsynonymous variants after RF-EMR exposure. Significantly, male reproductive tissues expressed 12 variants, five associated with ciliary function and two related to mitochondrial function (see Table 1). Gene Chromosome Variant Location Function SPDYE11 Chr7 A &amp;gt; C Spermatids • Acetylcholine receptor activity • Cell cycle regulation SPDYE17 Chr7 A &amp;gt; C Spermatids • Protein kinase activity • Cell cycle regulation PRB2 Chr12 T &amp;gt; G salivary gland • Cell cycle regulation GGT2 Chr22 G &amp;gt; A Spermatids • Cell cycle regulation RGPD3 Chr2 C &amp;gt; T Spermatids • Ciliary function EPPK1 Chr8 G &amp;gt; A Spermatids, spermatocytes • Epithelial structure GOLGA6L4 Chr15 G &amp;gt; A Spermatids, spermatocytes • Ciliary function TCP11X2 ChrX T &amp;gt; C Spermatids • Acrosome reaction • Cilia function • Spermatid development HRNR Chr1 A &amp;gt; G Mitochondria • Metal ion binding POUF1 Chr13 &amp;gt; GCC Mitochondria • Structure &amp; function of spermatozoa NPIPB13 Chr16 T &amp;gt; A Spermatids • Ciliary function • Sperm motility NBPF11 Chr1 A &amp;gt; C Spermatids, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells • Cell cycle regulation • Microtubule development ANKRD20A1 Chr9 T &amp;gt; A Spermatocytes • Ciliary function Table 1. Candidate genes with variants after six hours of phone radiation exposure Conclusions Based on our pilot study, we observed a decrease in sperm progressive motility and an increase in potentially related genetic variants associated with sperm motility following six hours of exposure to RF-EMR. These preliminary results highlight the need for further research to investigate the effects of RF-EMR exposure on semen parameters and to determine the clinical significance of these genetic variants. Disclosure No.

(180) Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation Emittted by Smartphones on Sperm Quality: An in Vitro Study

Abstract Introduction In modern times, the widespread use of mobile phones is a notable source of radiofrequency–electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) with a potential impact on human health. The advancements in technologies such as Bluetooth earphones have increased the time the cell phone resides inside the pant pockets of men, in close contact with their testicles. As a result, it makes the testicles more prone to RF-EMR exposure for longer. Recent literature has shown that such long exposure is likely to cause damage to the sperm quality and functioning in several ways, including the increase in local body temperature, high oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, and free radical formation (1,2). However, the causing effect of modern cell phones and wireless communication networks (4G and 5G) on sperm quality has not been explored. Objective The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of cell phone radiations emitted through communication technologies - 4G, 5G and WIFI on sperm motility and viability using an in-vitro approach and further try to shed light if physical barriers or distance ease these effects. Methods Normozoospermic men (n=18) aged 25-35 were recruited whose samples after semen analysis were divided into three parts i) in close contact with sample without cover ii) mobile phone covered with physical barrier, and iii) phone kept at distance from the samples. Standard semen analysis was carried according to WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen, 5th ed. Voice calls over the internet were made using 4G, 5G, or WIFI and using these, RF-EMF exposure was given for six hours which was measured by RF-EMR detection meter. In addition, to check for the heating effect, samples were kept inside the incubator at 37°C for samples exposed to WIFI effects. Continuous variables were presented as medians and interquartile ranges [25th - 75th], and comparison between groups was performed using the U Mann Whitney test. SPSS v.28 was used for statistical analysis. Results A decrease in both parameters under study was evident with WIFI (Motility (50% vs. 38%, p = 0.024; viability 60% vs 47%, p = 0.003), while no decrease was noted with 4G or 5G RF-EMR. Samples connected with WIFI were warmer but samples inside the incubator, when observed had decreased progressive motility (40% vs 24%, p= 0.04). On the other hand, the effect of RF-EMR by WIFI on smartphone was mitigated both for sperm motility and viability (p = 0.01, p = 0.01), n = 18) with the use of a case and on increasing the distance of the contact respectively. Conclusions The result from the study suggests that the radiation emitted by WIFI do have an adverse impact on the motility and viability of sperm. It seems plausible that the effect maybe a result of excess heat generation which was most evident with mobile phones connected to WIFI. However, further studies utilizing different phones and different time periods of exposure are warranted to effectively conclude the findings Disclosure No

The ZIP9-centered androgen pathway compensates for the 2605 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation-mediated reduction in resistance to H2O2 damage in Sertoli cells of adult rats

The direct biological effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) from wireless communication equipment on the testes are still unclear. Our previous study proved that long-term exposure to 2605 MHz RF-EMR gradually damage spermatogenesis and resulted in time-dependent reproductive toxicity by directly disrupting blood-testis barrier circulation. Although short-term exposure did not cause readily observable damage to fertility, whether it caused specific biological effects and how these effects contributed to the time-dependent reproductive toxicity of RF-EMR were currently unknown. Studies on this issue are important for elucidating the time-dependent reproductive toxicity of RF-EMR. The present study established a 2605 MHz RF-EMR (SAR=1.05 W/Kg) scrotal exposure model with rats and extracted primary Sertoli cells for exposure to investigate the direct biological effects of short-term RF-EMR exposure on the testis. The results showed that short-term RF-EMR exposure did not decrease sperm quality and spermatogenesis, but it increased the levels of testicular testosterone (T) and zinc transporter 9 (ZIP9) in Sertoli cells of rats. In vitro, 2605 MHz RF-EMR exposure did not increase the apoptosis rate of Sertoli cells, but it increased the apoptosis rate and MDA of Sertoli cells exposed to H2O2. T reversed these changes and increased ZIP9 level in Sertoli cells, whereas inhibiting ZIP9 expression significantly suppressed these T-mediated protective effects. Moreover, T increased the levels of phosphorylated inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (P-IRE1), phosphorylated protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (P-PERK), phosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor 2a (P-eIF2a) and phosphorylated activating transcription factor 6 (P-ATF6) in Sertoli cells, and these effects were reversed by ZIP9 inhibition. With prolonged exposure time, testicular ZIP9 was gradually downregulated, and testicular MDA increased. ZIP9 level was negatively correlated with MDA level in the testes of exposed rats. Thus, although short-term exposure to 2605 MHz RF-EMR (SAR=1.05 W/kg) did not significantly disturb spermatogenesis, it suppressed the ability of Sertoli cells to resist external insults, which was rescued by enhancing the ZIP9-centered androgen pathway in the short term. Increasing the unfolded protein response might be an important downstream mechanism involved. These results promote a better understanding of the time-dependent reproductive toxicity of 2605 MHz RF-EMR.

Effects of continuous prenatal and postnatal global system for mobile communications electromagnetic waves (GSM-EMW) exposure on the oxidative stress biomarkers in female rat liver

In light of the increased use of communication technologies, the harm caused by continuous exposure to emitted radiation on pregnancy and developing newborns is among the public concerns. Using Sprague-Dawley rats, our study investigates the effects of 24 h/day prenatal and postnatal 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) exposure of female rats on liver oxidative stress (OS) and other hepatic parameters at postnatal days (PND) 1, 9, and 21. Our results showed that RF-EMR exposure led to an increase in oxidative stress status as indicated by a significant elevation in MDA level at PND9 and PND21, a decrease in catalase (CAT) activity at all ages, a reduction (PND1 and PND9) in catalase amounts and mRNA expression, in addition to a decrease in GPx activity at PND21 in the exposed group. Current findings also showed a significant increase in cytoSOD at PND9 and 21 and a reduction in mitoSOD at PND21 in the exposed groups compared to the control groups. However, significant increases in glutathione peroxidase (GPx) level and mitoSOD activity were observed at all studied ages. Furthermore, cytoSOD activity showed a significant reduction in PND1, whereas in PND9 the value of this parameter increased compared to the non-exposed group. Moreover, while SOD1 mRNA expression increased at PND1, it decreased at PND9 and 21. However, GPx1 expression was shown to be always decreased in the exposed group. In addition, at PND1 and 9, exposed rats showed a similar response on Akt1, nuclear factor erythroïd 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression. Therefore, an increased oxidative stress status produced from a continuous (24 h/day) GSM-modulated 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods may result in adverse health effects during future life stages.

Acute radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation exposure impairs neurogenesis and causes neuronal DNA damage in the young rat brain

A mobile phone is now a commonly used device for digital media and communication among all age groups. Young adolescents use it for longer durations, which exposes them to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). This exposure can lead to neuropsychiatric changes. The underlying cellular mechanism behind these changes requires detailed investigation. In the present study, we investigated the effect of RF-EMR emitted from mobile phones on young adolescent rat brains. Wistar rats (5 weeks, male) were exposed to RF-EMR signal (2115 MHz) at a head average specific absorption rate (SAR) of 1.51 W/kg continuously for 8 h. Higher level of lipid peroxidation, carbon-centered lipid radicals, and single-strand DNA damage was observed in the brain of rat exposed to RF-EMR. The number of BrdU-positive cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) decreased in RF-EMR-exposed rats, indicating reduced neurogenesis. RF-EMR exposure also induced degenerative changes and neuronal loss in DG neurons but had no effect on the CA3 and CA1 neurons of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. The activity of Pro-caspase3 did not increase upon exposure in any of the brain regions, pointing out that degeneration observed in the DG region is not dependent on caspase activation. Results indicate that short-term acute exposure to RF-EMR induced the generation of carbon-centered lipid radicals and nuclear DNA damage, both of which likely played a role in the impaired neurogenesis and neuronal degeneration seen in the young brain's hippocampus region. The understanding of RF-EMR-induced alteration in the brain at the cellular level will help develop appropriate interventions for reducing its adverse impact.

Paternal Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation Exposure Causes Sex-Specific Differences in Body Weight Trajectory and Glucose Metabolism in Offspring Mice.

Nowadays, concerns about the harmful effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on male fertility and offspring health are growing. In the present study, we investigated the effects of long-term exposure (at least 10 weeks) to the RF-EMR [2.0 GHz; power density, 2.5 W/m2; whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR), 0.125–0.5 W/kg] on male mice fertility and F1 growth and glucose metabolism. No significant injuries were observed in testis organization, sperm quality, and pregnancy rate. However, mice exposed to RF-EMR exhibited a significantly elevated apoptosis rate in testis germ cells. Interestingly, paternal RF-EMR exposure resulted in sex-specific weight trajectory differences and glucose metabolism changes in male F1 mice but not in female F1 mice. The changed glucose metabolism in F1 male may result from the altered gene expression of liver Gck. These data collectively suggested that 2.0 GHz RF-EMR whole-body exposure of male mice does not cause obvious impairment in testis, sperm quality, and pregnancy rate. Paternal RF-EMR exposure causes male-specific alterations in body weight trajectories and glucose metabolism of F1.

1,800 MHz Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Irradiation Impairs Neurite Outgrowth With a Decrease in Rap1-GTP in Primary Mouse Hippocampal Neurons and Neuro2a Cells.

Background: With the global popularity of communication devices such as mobile phones, there are increasing concerns regarding the effect of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on the brain, one of the most important organs sensitive to RF-EMR exposure at 1,800 MHz. However, the effects of RF-EMR exposure on neuronal cells are unclear. Neurite outgrowth plays a critical role in brain development, therefore, determining the effects of 1,800 MHz RF-EMR exposure on neurite outgrowth is important for exploring its effects on brain development.Objectives: We aimed to investigate the effects of 1,800 MHz RF-EMR exposure for 48 h on neurite outgrowth in neuronal cells and to explore the associated role of the Rap1 signaling pathway.Material and Methods: Primary hippocampal neurons from C57BL/6 mice and Neuro2a cells were exposed to 1,800 MHz RF-EMR at a specific absorption rate (SAR) value of 4 W/kg for 48 h. CCK-8 assays were used to determine the cell viability after 24, 48, and 72 h of irradiation. Neurite outgrowth of primary hippocampal neurons (DIV 2) and Neuro2a cells was observed with a 20 × optical microscope and recognized by ImageJ software. Rap1a and Rap1b gene expressions were detected by real-time quantitative PCR. Rap1, Rap1a, Rap1b, Rap1GAP, and p-MEK1/2 protein expressions were detected by western blot. Rap1-GTP expression was detected by immunoprecipitation. The role of Rap1-GTP was assessed by transfecting a constitutively active mutant plasmid (Rap1-Gly_Val-GFP) into Neuro2a cells.Results: Exposure to 1,800 MHz RF-EMR for 24, 48, and 72 h at 4 W/kg did not influence cell viability. The neurite length, primary and secondary neurite numbers, and branch points of primary mouse hippocampal neurons were significantly impaired by 48-h RF-EMR exposure. The neurite-bearing cell percentage and neurite length of Neuro2a cells were also inhibited by 48-h RF-EMR exposure. Rap1 activity was inhibited by 48-h RF-EMR with no detectable alteration in either gene or protein expression of Rap1. The protein expression of Rap1GAP increased after 48-h RF-EMR exposure, while the expression of p-MEK1/2 protein decreased. Overexpression of constitutively active Rap1 reversed the decrease in Rap1-GTP and the neurite outgrowth impairment in Neuro2a cells induced by 1,800 MHz RF-EMR exposure for 48 h.Conclusion: Rap1 activity and related signaling pathways are involved in the disturbance of neurite outgrowth induced by 48-h 1,800 MHz RF-EMR exposure. The effects of RF-EMR exposure on neuronal development in infants and children deserve greater focus.

Challenges on the effect of cell phone radiation on mammalian embryos and fetuses: a review of the literature.

Cell phones operate with a wide range of frequency bands and emit radiofrequency-electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). Concern on the possible health hazards of RF-EMR has been growing in many countries because these RF-EMR pulses may be absorbed into the body cells, directly affecting them. There are some in vitro and in vivo animal studies related to the consequences of RF-EMR exposure from cell phones on embryo development and offspring. In addition, some studies have revealed that RF-EMR from cellular phone may lead to decrease in the rates of fertilization and embryo development, as well as the risk of the developmental anomalies, other studies have reported that it does not interfere with in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection success rates, or the chromosomal aberration rate. Of course, it is unethical to study the effect of waves generated from cell phones on the forming human embryos. Conversely, other mammals have many similarities to humans in terms of anatomy, physiology and genetics. Therefore, in this review we focused on the existing literature evaluating the potential effects of RF-EMR on mammalian embryonic and fetal development.

Ameliorative effect of Punica granatum on sperm parameters in rats exposed to mobile radioelectromagnetic radiation

Objective: To study the effect of mobile emitted radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on sperm parameters (sperm count, viability, motility, progressivity, and morphology) and ameliorative effect of pomegranate juice in rats.Methods: Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=6 in each group). Group I was neither exposed to RF-EMR nor given pomegranate juice, group II, III and IV were exposed to mobile emitted RF-EMR for 60 min/day for 90 days. After 90-day exposure to RF-EMR, group III was supplemented with pomegranate juice for 90 days (1 mL/day) and group IV was allowed to recover for 90 days without supplementation of pomegranate juice. Group V was supplemented with pomegranate juice for 90 days without exposure to RF-EMR. At the end of intervention, epididymal sperm parameters (sperm count, viability, motility, progressivity, and morphology) were measured.Results: The microscopic examination of sperm parameters such as sperm count, sperm viability, sperm motility, progressivity were significantly decreased in group II (the mobile RF-EMR group) compared to group I (the control group) (P<0.05). In addition, sperm morphology was also significantly altered (abnormal) in group II compared to group I (P<0.05). However, the sperm parameters including sperm morphology were significantly altered in group III (mobile RF-EMR + pomegranate juice) compared to group II (P<0.05). The sperm parameters including sperm morphology were not significantly altered in group IV (the mobile RF-EMR recovery group) compared to group II (P>0.05). The sperm parameters were non-significantly increased in group V (the pomegranate juice group) compared to group I (P>0.05).Conclusions: Mobile RF-EMR exposure reduces the sperm parameters, which, however, can be reversed by treatment with pomegranate juice, indicating that pomegranate juice can be used as a nutritional supplement to improve sperm quality.

Effects of 2.1 GHz Electromagnetic Radiation on Locomotor Activity, Recognition Memory, and Anxiety-Related Behavior in Rats

The effects of short-term (2 h per day for 7 days) exposures to different doses of 2.1 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on cognition and behavior of rats were examined. The animals were divided into three equal groups, sham-exposed group 1 and two RF groups irradiated with different doses, groups 2 and 3, respectively. To assess locomotor activity, recognition memory, and anxiety-related behavior, the open field (OF), novel object recognition (NOR), and marble burying (MB) tests were used, respectively. Overall results showed that both 45 and 65 V/m doses of 2.1 GHz RF-EMR did not lead to significant modifications of locomotor activity in the OF test. At the same time, higher doses (65 V/m) significantly (about two times) decreased the exploration time and number of touches for a novel object in the NOR test. In the MB test, both RF-EMR doses led to significant dose-dependent decreases in the number of buried marbles, which was indicative of lower levels of anxiety. Further studies are needed, regarding this particular type and level of radiation, for the development of methods to provide protection of the brain from harmful effects of RF-EMR exposure.

Investigating the impact of mobile range electromagnetic radiation on the medial prefrontal cortex of the rat during working memory

Research has been focused on the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) emitted from a mobile phone on general health, especially the nervous system.The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of RF-EMR on the brain mechanism of rats by recording local field potentials (LFPs) signals during working memory (WM) task.Subjects were exposed to 900 MHz from a dipole antenna daily for three hours. Exposure was applied, first on a short term base (1 week) and then on a long term base (4 weeks). Behavioral parameters were measured weekly while rats performed T-maze tasks in two types of normal and delayed. LFPs signals were simultaneously recorded by implanted microelectrode arrays on the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of rats.Results showed a significant increase (*p < 0.05) in the task completion time of exposed rats which vanished shortly after the end of short term RF-EMR exposure. Before exposure, during correctly performed delayed tasks, an increase (peak) in power changes of theta band (4−12 Hz) was observed. But during correctly performed normal tasks, an increase appeared only by applying RF-EMR exposure. The similarity in power changes pattern of theta band in both types of tasks was observed after long term exposure. Classification accuracy of LFPs in truly done normal and delayed tasks was compared in pre and post-exposure states. Initial classification accuracy was 84.2 % which decreased significantly (*P < 0.05) after exposure.These observations indicated that RF-EMR may cause unusual brain functioning which is temporary at least for short term exposure.

Precision apiculture: Development of a wireless sensor network for honeybee hives

Wireless in-hive sensor networks show promise in apiary management and research. However, radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) emitted by wireless technologies could affect honeybees at the individual and the colony level. Prior research has noted that different operation frequencies and power of transferred signals affect insect and larger animal behavior. An on-line wireless sensor network was developed that continuously monitored in-hive temperature, relative humidity, and acoustics. While testing the network performance, a wired version of the developed sensor network was used to substantiate whether or not RF-EMR from Wi-Fi affects the measured parameters through a 30-day study in 2015. Two groups of three beehives were monitored: the first group was subjected to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal while the second group was located outside of radio communication range. During RF-EMR exposure, in-hive temperature increased by an average of 0.09C and relative humidity increased by 1.53%, sound increased in amplitude by 0.03 dB but decreased in frequency by 2.57 Hz. All measured parameters had a higher standard deviation (SD) during the exposure treatment as compared to these changes during RF-EMR exposure, thus differences were not significant at the p < 0.05 level However, Control hive 1 swarmed 2 months before the start of the experiment and was on average 14.4% less humid and 1.57 dB quieter than the other monitored. Based on this research, no evidence of beehive environment change in response to RM-EMR was found. At the same time, the observation of abnormally measured parameters could be linked with a stressed colony (due to a swarming event), which might help apiculturists reduce production losses by rapidly reacting to the observed indicators of potential stress. Given the complexity of beehive dynamics, research on other potential effects of RF-EMR is needed before adopting wireless technologies in beehive sensors.

Effects of acute and chronic exposure to both 900 MHz and 2100 MHz electromagnetic radiation on glutamate receptor signaling pathway

Purpose: To demonstrate the molecular effects of acute and chronic exposure to both 900 and 2100 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on the hippocampal level/activity of some of the enzymes – including PKA, CaMKIIα, CREB, and p44/42 MAPK – from N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-related signaling pathways.Materials and methods: Rats were divided into the following groups: sham rats, and rats exposed to 900 and 2100 MHz RF-EMR for 2 h/day for acute (1 week) or chronic (10 weeks), respectively. Western blotting and activity measurement assays were used to assess the level/activity of the selected enzymes.Results: The obtained results revealed that the hippocampal level/activity of selected enzymes was significantly higher in the chronic groups as compared to the acute groups at both 900 and 2100 MHz RF-EMR exposure. In addition, hippocampal level/activity of selected enzymes was significantly higher at 2100 MHz RF-EMR than 900 MHz RF-EMR in both acute and chronic groups.Conclusions: The present study provides experimental evidence that both exposure duration (1 week versus 10 weeks) and different carrier frequencies (900 vs. 2100 MHz) had different effects on the protein expression of hippocampus in Wistar rats, which might encourage further research on protection against RF-EMR exposure.

Effect of 1.8\u2009GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on novel object associative recognition memory in mice

Mounting evidence suggests that exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) can influence learning and memory in rodents. In this study, we examined the effects of single exposure to 1.8 GHz RF-EMR for 30 min on subsequent recognition memory in mice, using the novel object recognition task (NORT). RF-EMR exposure at an intensity of >2.2 W/kg specific absorption rate (SAR) power density induced a significant density-dependent increase in NORT index with no corresponding changes in spontaneous locomotor activity. RF-EMR exposure increased dendritic-spine density and length in hippocampal and prefrontal cortical neurons, as shown by Golgi staining. Whole-cell recordings in acute hippocampal and medial prefrontal cortical slices showed that RF-EMR exposure significantly altered the resting membrane potential and action potential frequency, and reduced the action potential half-width, threshold, and onset delay in pyramidal neurons. These results demonstrate that exposure to 1.8 GHz RF-EMR for 30 min can significantly increase recognition memory in mice, and can change dendritic-spine morphology and neuronal excitability in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. The SAR in this study (3.3 W/kg) was outside the range encountered in normal daily life, and its relevance as a potential therapeutic approach for disorders associated with recognition memory deficits remains to be clarified.

The effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on sperm function.

Mobile phone usage has become an integral part of our lives. However, the effects of the radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) emitted by these devices on biological systems and specifically the reproductive systems are currently under active debate. A fundamental hindrance to the current debate is that there is no clear mechanism of how such non-ionising radiation influences biological systems. Therefore, we explored the documented impacts of RF-EMR on the male reproductive system and considered any common observations that could provide insights on a potential mechanism. Among a total of 27 studies investigating the effects of RF-EMR on the male reproductive system, negative consequences of exposure were reported in 21. Within these 21 studies, 11 of the 15 that investigated sperm motility reported significant declines, 7 of 7 that measured the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) documented elevated levels and 4 of 5 studies that probed for DNA damage highlighted increased damage due to RF-EMR exposure. Associated with this, RF-EMR treatment reduced the antioxidant levels in 6 of 6 studies that discussed this phenomenon, whereas consequences of RF-EMR were successfully ameliorated with the supplementation of antioxidants in all 3 studies that carried out these experiments. In light of this, we envisage a two-step mechanism whereby RF-EMR is able to induce mitochondrial dysfunction leading to elevated ROS production. A continued focus on research, which aims to shed light on the biological effects of RF-EMR will allow us to test and assess this proposed mechanism in a variety of cell types.

Immune responses of a wall lizard to whole-body exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation

Purpose During the last three decades, the number of devices that emit non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) at the wireless communication spectrum has rapidly increased and possible effects on living organisms have become a major concern. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of radiofrequency EMR emitted by a widely used wireless communication device, namely the Digital Enhanced Communication Telephony (DECT) base, on the immune responses of the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii).Materials and methods Adult male lizards were exposed 24 h/day for 8 weeks to 1880–1900 MHz DECT base radiation at average electric field intensity of 3.2 V/m. Immune reactivity was assessed using the phytohemagglutinin (PHA) skin swelling and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) tests.Results Our results revealed a noticeable suppression (approximately 45%) of inflammatory responses in EMR-exposed lizards compared to sham-exposed animals. T cell-mediated responses were marginally affected.Conclusion Daily radiofrequency EMR exposure seems to affect, at least partially, the immunocompetence of the Aegean wall lizard.