Search Results (560)

Background: In May 2011 the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as a possible human carcinogen mainly based on epidemiological studies about the association between mobile phone (MP) use and brain tumors. Considering that brain tumors have long latencies of around 30 years, it is unlikely that this association is due to an ‘initiating’ activity of MPs since virtually all studied brain tumor cases must have had already a covertly growing tumor when they started MP use. But there could be other adverse effects exerted by a MP when acting on later stages of malignant development. We propose that MP use acts adversely by increasing tumor growth rate and model it by an impact on the latency distribution shifting the age-incidence function to younger age. Methods: We calculate (1) relative risks (RRs) for MP use in comparison to the meta-analytic RR estimate for glioma in adults; (2) RRs for neuroepithelial childhood brain tumors in comparison to the findings of the MOBIkids study; and (3) hazard ratios in comparison to the results of the Million Women Study (MWS). Results: The meta-analytical odds ratio for glioma and long-term MP use in adults of 1.22 (95% confidence-interval: 1.02–1.46) could be explained by a shift in the age-incidence function by 32% of MP usage duration. Applying a 20% shift for childhood neuroepithelial brain tumors reproduced the ORs that were predominantly less than 1 in the MOBIkids study. For glioma risk in perimenopausal women in relation to long-term MP use in the MWS we found hazard-ratios close to 1 applying a 32% shift in the age-incidence function. Conclusions: The standard interpretation of relative risk estimates must be revised if exposure to the agent commenced after the malignant development has already started. All reported RR estimates of MP use can be reproduced by positing MP use increased tumor growth rate. However, since these results are obtained applying a modeling approach, further tests using epidemiological methods, which will be difficult or hardly feasible, or utilizing more promising laboratory methods are needed. Full article

Electrification of public transit is central to sustainable urban development, yet it introduces passenger exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs), which the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). This study presents a systematic cross-platform comparison of ELF-MF exposure in direct current (DC) light rail and alternating current (AC) heavy rail systems operating under a single national regulatory framework. A total of 9100 continuous measurements were collected across 28 trips on the Tel Aviv Red Line light rail transit (1500 V DC) and the Israel Railways Tel Aviv–Binyamina corridor (25 kV, 50 Hz AC) during 23–26 November 2025, using calibrated Tenmars TM-192D gaussmeters. Mean passenger seat magnetic flux density was 0.226 ± 0.147 µT (2.26 ± 1.47 mG) for the DC system and 0.900 ± 0.606 µT (9.00 ± 6.06 mG) for the AC system. The difference was highly significant (Welch’s t = −73.06, p < 0.001). DC light rail exposure remained consistently below Israel’s precautionary 0.4 µT (4 mG) threshold for continuous public exposure, whereas AC heavy rail mean levels exceeded this threshold in every monitored trip while remaining far below ICNIRP general public reference levels. These findings highlight a “Green Dilemma” in sustainable transport policy: the environmental benefits of rail electrification must be balanced with prudent electromagnetic exposure management in jurisdictions applying strict precautionary limits. Full article

Internet of things long range (IoT/LoRa) devices emit radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), ensuring long-range, low-power communication, and their use in precision agriculture continuously expands. Thus, the interest in the impact of low-intensity but long-term EMF exposure on plants has increased. In this study, maize plants were exposed to 868 MHz, 10 mW EMF for the first 28 days of their development with soil-buried antennas. Plants were divided into three groups: Control, Sham-exposed, and EMF-exposed. Biological effects were followed on morphological, physiological, and biochemical levels every week. The plant height values were fitted to a Gompertz function modeling the growth. The results showed slightly faster early development of EMF-exposed plants in about 21 days. The relative dry-leaf biomass from EMF-affected plants was a bit higher than in the Control and Sham groups until day 21. Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis (JIP-test) indicated photosynthetic stability. Antioxidant enzyme activity, antioxidant capacity, content of malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and reducing sugars were measured, and principal component analysis was done for all parameters. Overall, the developmental stage accounts for most of the observed variations in the data rather than EMF exposure. The results suggest that under the tested conditions, IoT/LoRa-emitted EMF did not provoke adverse effects in maize and acted as a modest modulator of physiological functions. Full article

The growing use of wireless technology significantly increases the exposure of all living organisms to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). However, the physiological effects of RF-EMF on plants have not yet been sufficiently researched. In this study, we investigated the effects of RF-EMF radiation in the frequency ranges 1890–1900 MHz (DECT) and 2.4 GHz plus 5 GHz (Wi-Fi) on photosynthetic performance of Tilia plants (Tilia tomentosa). The recorded fast chlorophyll fluorescence transients were used to analyze the structure and function of PSII by the JIP-test. The analysis of the fluorescence of chlorophyll a showed that the RF-EMF interfered with the electron transport processes of photosynthesis. Tilia plants exposed to RF-EMF induced decrease in photosynthetic efficiency (F_V/F_M) and inactivation of part of PSII reaction centers (RC/CS_O). Observations of leaf senescence and lifespan over a period of 102 days showed that RF-EMF-exposed Tilia plants exhibited accelerated aging. Full article

The rapid global expansion of 5G technology has increased concerns regarding its potential health effects. Postural balance, a complex sensorimotor function reflecting central nervous system integrity, may be susceptible to electromagnetic field exposure. However, evidence on 5G effects on comprehensive balance outcomes remains limited. This randomized controlled pilot study investigated the effects of short-term exposure to 5G mobile phones on static and dynamic postural balance using computerized posturography. Nineteen healthy adults (mean age: 31 ± 7 years) participated in a randomized crossover design involving three conditions: 5-min exposure, 20-min exposure, and sham. Static and dynamic balance were assessed using the NeuroCom Balance Master, including the Unilateral Stance, Rhythmic Weight Shift, and Limits of Stability tests, which were performed immediately before and after each condition. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA showed no significant interaction between exposure condition and time (pre vs. post) across all outcomes. Bayesian analyses provided support against detectable exposure-related interaction effects, although evidence for some time-related effects was inconclusive or varied across outcomes. These findings suggest that short-term 5G exposure did not produce detectable alterations in postural control under the experimental conditions tested. Full article

Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) at different frequencies has been reported to induce apoptotic changes in brain tissue. Apoptosis is commonly evaluated using the TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) method; however, conventional semi-quantitative scoring is subjective and may vary between observers. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of transfer learning-based convolutional neural network (CNN) models for the objective and automated classification of apoptotic damage in TUNEL-stained brain sections. A total of 92 light microscopy images of TUNEL-stained rat brain tissue, obtained from experimental groups, were analyzed. Apoptotic damage was categorized into three classes (0: no, +1: slight, +2: moderate) based on semi-quantitative scoring. Pre-trained convolutional neural network models, including AlexNet, SqueezeNet, GoogLeNet, Inception-v3, and ResNet-101, were applied for image classification. All models were able to classify apoptotic damage levels, defined by the extent of TUNEL staining, from images with varying performance. The best-performing model achieved high classification accuracy and demonstrated strong agreement with manual scoring, as determined by visual assessments by experts. The models successfully distinguished between different levels of apoptotic damage observed across experimental groups. The findings suggest that transfer learning-based CNN models may provide an objective and reproducible approach for the classification of apoptotic damage in TUNEL-stained histopathological images, thereby reducing observer-dependent variability. This approach may also support histopathological evaluation in experimental models, including studies investigating EMF-induced brain injury. Full article

Germicidal UV (GUV) technology, which utilizes light in the UV-C portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, has become a viable alternative to traditional chemical disinfectants to sanitize surfaces in the built environment. However, the degradation of polymers that have been exposed to UV-C light is a concern due to the potential change in structural integrity and visual appearance. The resistance to UV-C degradation is often tabulated in relative qualitative terms, making it rather difficult for designers to understand the implications of the choice of a material of construction. This study was initiated to develop a systematic, standardized method of exposing polymeric materials to UV-C light to ensure that the subsequent property measurements can be compared quantitatively. The exposure method is based on an apparatus that can be readily duplicated using commercially available materials and equipment. To demonstrate the proposed exposure framework, samples of six formulated polymer resins were exposed to three UV-C light sources with different peak wavelengths (KrCl excimer lamp [222 nm], low-pressure mercury lamp [254 nm], and LED lamp [280 nm]). Exposures were conducted at five independent laboratories, and subsequent property testing was performed at multiple facilities using established materials-characterization methods. This coordinated approach enables comparative evaluation of material responses across UV-C source types, wavelengths, and dose levels, providing a practical foundation for developing standardized exposure methodologies and informing future formulation development efforts. Post-exposure testing included quantifying changes in optical, mechanical, and physical properties, including color, gloss, reflectivity, spectral transmittance (haze), flammability, tensile strength, and elastic modulus. These measurements were conducted using established laboratory methods commonly employed throughout the polymer and materials industries. Together, these results provide a comparative dataset illustrating how polymer properties respond to coordinated UV-C exposure conditions, supporting the development of standardized approaches for evaluating material durability in germicidal UV applications. Full article

Private 5G mobile networks are emerging as a platform for wireless connectivity in professional applications across smart industrial sectors such as automated warehousing, logistics, autonomous vehicle deployments in campus environments, mining, and material processing, among others. It is expected that most Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) communication links will increasingly rely on wireless solutions, as the flexibility they offer provides clear advantages over hard-wired network installations. To gain insight into workers’ exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF EMF) emitted by 5G private mobile networks, an analysis was conducted based on measured and calculated RF EMF levels from various 5G private networks in real-world scenarios across different smart industrial sectors and R&D platforms in three countries. Several exposure scenarios were evaluated, including production facilities, logistics operations, office environments, and research sites. The installations included different configurations: private standalone and non-standalone 5G networks operating at 3.5 GHz and 26 GHz, as well as public networks with private slicing. The results clearly demonstrated that exposure levels in all investigated scenarios were well below existing exposure limits. In a typical indoor industrial environment where pico 5G base stations are deployed, the measured exposure was found to be no greater than 0.006% of the Directive 2013/35/EU action value and 0.03% of the ICNIRP guideline limits for the general public. Full article

To improve the durability of terahertz (THz) electromagnetic shielding materials in atomic oxygen environments relevant to low Earth orbit (LEO), two MXene/para-aramid nanofiber (ANF) composite architectures were designed, including a uniformly blended structure and a sandwich configuration. Ti₃C₂T_x MXene was used as the conductive phase, while ANF served as a protective matrix. Oxygen plasma treatment was employed to simulate atomic oxygen exposure. The results show that the plasma resistance of blended films strongly depends on MXene content. Increasing the MXene fraction enhances conductive network redundancy and reduces conductivity degradation. In contrast, the sandwich-structured film exhibits superior structural stability. The outer ANF layers effectively limit direct plasma–MXene interaction and undergo surface carbonization during plasma exposure, forming an additional diffusion barrier. As a result, the sandwich film maintains stable THz shielding performance, with the average shielding effectiveness increasing from 42.6 dB to 44.9 dB after plasma treatment. These results indicate that structural regulation of the internal conductive network, which limits plasma penetration, is essential for maintaining stable MXene-based THz shielding performance under oxidative plasma conditions. Full article

Neural oscillations in the alpha and theta bands have been linked to environmental factors, including geomagnetic disturbances, yet the temporal dynamics of these interactions remain poorly understood. This study examined the relationship between geomagnetic activity, quantified by the Kp index, and brain activity in low alpha (7–10 Hz) and theta (4–7 Hz) bands using two complementary approaches. In Experiment 1, archival EEG data from 238 subjects collected over four years were analyzed for correlations between daily Kp values and band power across a ±90-day window. Significant positive correlations (p < 0.01) emerged in both bands, with a spatially coherent peak in caudal regions occurring 19 days prior to EEG measurement. In Experiment 2, an independent sample of 22 participants was exposed to a simulated geomagnetic storm, and EEG was recorded at baseline and 19 days post-exposure. Paired-samples t-tests revealed significant within-subject reductions in theta, low alpha, and high alpha power over frontal and parietal regions, consistent with a delayed neural response. Together, these findings provide converging correlational and experimental evidence for a lagged influence of geomagnetic activity on human brain oscillations. The 19-day delay observed in both datasets suggests that geomagnetic disturbances may exert residual effects on neural dynamics well beyond immediate exposure, warranting further investigation into underlying mechanisms and potential behavioral relevance. Full article

The brain and testes are connected via the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Both are vulnerable to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). However, no comprehensive study had evaluated the effects of RF-EMR on key hormones along this axis. Hereby, this study evaluated the effect of RF-EMR on the hormonal changes along the axis, including the neuropeptide kisspeptin. A total of 18 (N = 18) adult Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups (n = 6): Control, 4 h, and 24 h. The Control group was sham-exposed to an inactive router. The exposed groups were subjected to 2.45 GHz RF-EMR for 4 and 24 h daily, for 60 days at a 20 cm distance. The power density was 0.141 W/m² with a whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR) of 0.41 W/kg. No significant changes were observed in hypothalamic Kiss1 gene expression or serum kisspeptin levels. GnRH levels increased significantly in both exposed groups, while FSH and LH remained unchanged. Testicular testosterone was significantly reduced in the 24 h group, while serum testosterone was elevated in the 24 h group compared to the 4 h group. In conclusion, prolonged 2.45 GHz RF-EMR exposure caused selective changes in components of the HPG axis, particularly involving GnRH and testosterone, suggesting potential endocrine effects on male reproductive regulation. Full article

The increasing complexity and extended operational lifetimes of modern space infrastructure have significantly intensified the demand for reliable structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. However, the extreme space environment, characterized by radiation exposure, microgravity, ultra-high vacuum, and severe thermal cycling, imposes critical limitations on conventional electrical sensing technologies, leading to reduced measurement accuracy, instability, and long-term degradation. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of fiber Bragg grating (FBG)-based sensing technologies as a promising solution for deformation monitoring in space infrastructure. The study investigates the fundamental operating principles of FBG sensors under space conditions and systematically classifies existing FBG-based SHM architectures, including point-based, multiplexed, long-distance, and hybrid sensing systems. Furthermore, the advantages of FBG sensors—such as immunity to electromagnetic interference, passive operation, and high-resolution multipoint sensing—are critically evaluated in comparison with traditional electrical sensors. In addition, key challenges affecting the performance of FBG systems in space environments are analyzed, including radiation-induced wavelength drift, temperature–strain cross-sensitivity, signal attenuation, and long-term stability issues. The paper also highlights recent advances in interrogation techniques and network architectures that enable reliable in situ and real-time deformation monitoring of space structures. The results demonstrate that FBG-based sensing systems provide a scalable and robust framework for SHM in extreme environments while also revealing existing limitations and open research challenges. This work establishes a structured foundation for the development of next-generation intelligent monitoring systems for space infrastructure. Full article

Background: Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs), generated mainly by power infrastructure and household devices, have raised scientific interest due to their potential impact on the endocrine system. Animal research consistently shows effects on melatonin secretion, stress hormone levels, thyroid activity, and reproductive function—largely mediated by oxidative stress and calcium ion imbalance. In contrast, human studies remain inconsistent, often hindered by methodological limitations and insufficient exposure characterization. Objective: This review synthesizes experimental and epidemiological studies examining low-frequency electromagnetic field exposure (≤100 kHz) and its influence on hormonal regulation. Methods: A bibliometric analysis highlights focused interest on specific endocrine targets, particularly the pineal gland. Importantly, many experimental studies use field strengths above those found near high-voltage power lines, limiting direct applicability. Conclusions: While a definitive causal link has not been established, the widespread exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields justifies precautionary considerations. Several important research gaps remain, many of which are identified in this review. The topic of low-frequency electromagnetic field effects on the endocrine system requires more rigorous, long-term human studies with accurate exposure assessment. Full article

The rapid deployment of 5G networks and the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices have significantly increased the complexity of urban electromagnetic radiation (EMR) environments. Conventional ground-based monitoring systems are spatially limited and unable to provide three-dimensional field characterization. This paper proposes an integrated IoT–UAV framework for high-resolution EMR monitoring, spatial reconstruction, and intelligent source classification. A four-layer architecture combining distributed sensing, edge computing, cloud analytics, and visualization is developed. A formal electromagnetic propagation model is introduced to ensure consistency between broadband exposure measurements and frequency-selective spectral analysis. A CNN–LSTM architecture is implemented for spectral–temporal source classification, achieving 95% validation accuracy across five EMR categories. Simulation-based validation demonstrates up to an eightfold improvement in spatial coverage compared to fixed ground networks while maintaining a practical anomaly detection threshold of −55 dBm in the spectrum-analysis RF chain. The proposed framework establishes a mathematically consistent and practically deployable solution for next-generation EMR monitoring systems. Full article

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs), increasingly prevalent due to technological advancements, have raised significant concerns regarding their potential biological effects on living organisms. While much attention has focused on human health, growing evidence suggests that EMFs can also affect invertebrates, which play vital ecological roles. This study investigates the biochemical and cell death biomarker responses to EMF exposure for 24 h or 72 h in Parasteatoda tepidariorum. The focus is placed on the 10 MHz frequency, which is relevant to environmental exposure scenarios. Biochemical biomarkers include heat shock proteins (HSP70) and the percentage of apoptotic and living cells in individuals at their embryonic, young and adult stages. Results indicate that exposure to EMFs can induce measurable stress responses at the biochemical level, with variations depending on developmental stage and protective structures. Embryos outside of the egg sac exhibited significantly elevated levels of HSP70 and apoptosis markers compared to those within the sac, suggesting a partial protective effect of the cocoons. Furthermore, differences in biomarker sensitivity were observed across all the developmental stages and increased with prolonged exposure. These findings contribute to the understanding of EMF-induced biological effects in invertebrates and support the use of P. tepidariorum as a model species for environmental electromagnetic pollution. Full article