Low Intensity Electromagnetic Fields Act via Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel (VGCC) Activation to Cause Very Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease: 18 Distinct Types of Evidence

Long-Term Impact of Using Mobile Phones and Playing Computer Games on the Brain Structure and the Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Large Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Despite the increasing popularity of electronic devices, the longitudinal effects of daily prolonged electronic device usage on brain health and the aging process remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the daily use of mobile phones/computers on the brain structure and the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

METHODS

We used data from the UK Biobank, a longitudinal population-based cohort study, to analyze the impact of mobile phone use duration, weekly usage time, and playing computer games on the future brain structure and the future risk of various neurodegenerative diseases, including all-cause dementia (ACD), Alzheimer disease (AD), vascular dementia (VD), all-cause parkinsonism (ACP), and Parkinson disease (PD). All the characteristics of using mobile phones and playing computer games were collected through face-to-face interviews at baseline, and outcomes were extracted from the algorithmic combinations of self-reported medical conditions, hospital admissions, and death registries. In addition, a group of participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at follow-up. Cox regression and linear regression were performed.

RESULTS

The study included over 270,000 participants for risk analysis, with a mean baseline age of approximately 55.85 (SD 8.07) years. The average follow-up duration was approximately 13.9 (SD 1.99) years. Lengthy mobile phone use was associated with a reduced risk of ACD (2-4 years: hazard ratio [HR] 0.815, 95% CI 0.729-0.912, P<.001; 5-8 years: HR 0.749, 95% CI 0.677-0.829, P<.001; >8 years: HR 0.830, 95% CI 0.751-0.918, P<.001), AD (5-8 years: HR 0.787, 95% CI 0.672-0.922, P=.003), and VD (2-4 years: HR 0.616, 95% CI 0.477-0.794, P<.001; 5-8 years: HR 0.729, 95% CI 0.589-0.902, P=.004; >8 years: HR 0.750, 95% CI 0.605-0.930, P=.009) compared to rarely using mobile phones. Additionally, lengthy mobile phone use was linked to a decreased risk of ACP (5-8 years: HR 0.747, 95% CI 0.637-0.875, P<.001; >8 years: HR 0.774, 95% CI 0.663-0.904, P=.001) and PD (5-8 years: HR 0.760, 95% CI 0.644-0.897, P=.001; >8 years: HR 0.777, 95% CI 0.660-0.913, P=.002) in participants older than 60 years. However, higher weekly usage time did not confer additional risk reduction compared to lower weekly usage of mobile phones. The neuroimaging analysis involved 35,643 participants, with an average duration of approximately 9.0 years between baseline and neuroimaging scans. Lengthy mobile phone use was related to a thicker cortex in different areas of the brain.

CONCLUSIONS

Lengthy mobile phone use is associated with a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases and improved brain structure compared to minimal usage. Our research provides valuable background knowledge for future studies on the impact of modern electronic devices on brain health.

Variables associated with cognitive function: an exposome-wide and mendelian randomization analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence indicates that cognitive function is influenced by potential environmental factors. We aimed to determine the variables influencing cognitive function.

METHODS

Our study included 164,463 non-demented adults (89,644 [54.51%] female; mean [SD] age, 56.69 [8.14] years) from the UK Biobank who completed four cognitive assessments at baseline. 364 variables were finally extracted for analysis through a rigorous screening process. We performed univariate analyses to identify variables significantly associated with each cognitive function in two equal-sized split discovery and replication datasets. Subsequently, the identified variables in univariate analyses were further assessed in a multivariable model. Additionally, for the variables identified in multivariable model, we explored the associations with longitudinal cognitive decline. Moreover, one- and two- sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted to confirm the genetic associations. Finally, the quality of the pooled evidence for the associations between variables and cognitive function was evaluated.

RESULTS

252 variables (69%) exhibited significant associations with at least one cognitive function in the discovery dataset. Of these, 231 (92%) were successfully replicated. Subsequently, our multivariable analyses identified 41 variables that were significantly associated with at least one cognitive function, spanning categories such as education, socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, body measurements, mental health, medical conditions, early life factors, and household characteristics. Among these 41 variables, 12 were associated with more than one cognitive domain, and were further identified in all subgroup analyses. And LASSO, rigde, and principal component analysis indicated the robustness of the primary results. Moreover, among these 41 variables, 12 were significantly associated with a longitudinal cognitive decline. Furthermore, 22 were supported by one-sample MR analysis, and 5 were further confirmed by two-sample MR analysis. Additionally, the quality of the pooled evidence for the associations between 10 variables and cognitive function was rated as high. Based on these 10 identified variables, adopting a more favorable lifestyle was significantly associated with 38% and 34% decreased risks of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

CONCLUSION

Overall, our study constructed an evidence database of variables associated with cognitive function, which could contribute to the prevention of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Brain structure alterations following neonatal exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields: A histological analysis

Nitric oxide (NO) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) have been extensively studied for their roles in neurobiology, particularly in regulating cerebral functions and synaptic plasticity. This study investigates the impact of EMFs on NO modulation and its subsequent effects on neurodevelopment, building upon prior research examining EMF exposure's consequences on Wistar albino rats. Rats were exposed perinatally to either tap water, 1 g/L of L-arginine (LA) or 0.5 g/L of N-methylarginine (NMA). Half of the rats in each group were also exposed to a 7-Hz square-wave EMF at three separate intensities (5, 50 and 500 nT) for 2-14 days following birth. Animals were allowed to develop, and their brains were harvested later in adulthood (mean age = 568.17 days, SD = 162.73). Histological analyses were used to elucidate structural changes in key brain regions. All brains were stained with Toluidine Blue O (TBO), enabling the visualization of neurons. Neuronal counts were then conducted in specific regions of interest (e.g. hippocampus, cortices, amygdala and hypothalamus). Histological analyses revealed significant alterations in neuronal density in specific brain regions, particularly in response to EMF exposure and pharmacological interventions. Notable findings include a main EMF exposure effect where increased neuronal counts were observed in the secondary somatosensory cortex under low EMF intensities (p < 0.001) and sex-specific responses in the hippocampus, where a significant increase in neuronal counts was observed in the left CA3 region in female rats exposed to EMF compared to unexposed females (t(18) = 2.371, p = 0.029). Additionally, a significant increase in neuronal counts in the right entorhinal cortex was seen in male rats exposed to EMF compared to unexposed males (t(18) = 2.216, p = 0.040). These findings emphasize the complex interaction among sex, EMF exposure and pharmacological agents on neuronal dynamics across brain regions, highlighting the need for further research to identify underlying mechanisms and potential implications for cognitive function and neurological health in clinical and environmental contexts.

Calcium (Ca2+) hemostasis, mitochondria, autophagy, and mitophagy contribute to Alzheimer's disease as early moderators

This review rigorously investigates the early cerebral changes associated with Alzheimer's disease, which manifest long before clinical symptoms arise. It presents evidence that the dysregulation of calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis, along with mitochondrial dysfunction and aberrant autophagic processes, may drive the disease's progression during its asymptomatic, preclinical stage. Understanding the intricate molecular interplay that unfolds during this critical period offers a window into identifying novel therapeutic targets, thereby advancing the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. The review delves into both established and emerging insights into the molecular alterations precipitated by the disruption of Ca2+ balance, setting the stage for cognitive decline and neurodegeneration.

Central Causation of Autism/ASDs via Excessive [Ca2+]i Impacting Six Mechanisms Controlling Synaptogenesis during the Perinatal Period: The Role of Electromagnetic Fields and Chemicals and the NO/ONOO(-) Cycle, as Well as Specific Mutations

The roles of perinatal development, intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i, and synaptogenesis disruption are not novel in the autism/ASD literature. The focus on six mechanisms controlling synaptogenesis, each regulated by [Ca2+]i, and each aberrant in ASDs is novel. The model presented here predicts that autism epidemic causation involves central roles of both electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and chemicals. EMFs act via voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) activation and [Ca2+]i elevation. A total of 15 autism-implicated chemical classes each act to produce [Ca2+]i elevation, 12 acting via NMDA receptor activation, and three acting via other mechanisms. The chronic nature of ASDs is explained via NO/ONOO(-) vicious cycle elevation and MeCP2 epigenetic dysfunction. Genetic causation often also involves [Ca2+]i elevation or other impacts on synaptogenesis. The literature examining each of these steps is systematically examined and found to be consistent with predictions. Approaches that may be sed for ASD prevention or treatment are discussed in connection with this special issue: The current situation and prospects for children with ASDs. Such approaches include EMF, chemical avoidance, and using nutrients and other agents to raise the levels of Nrf2. An enriched environment, vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s in fish oil may also be helpful.

Problems in evaluating the health impacts of radio frequency radiation

In an effort to clarify the nature of causal evidence regarding the potential impacts of RFR on biological systems, this paper relies on a well-established framework for considering causation expanded from that of Bradford Hill, that combines experimental and epidemiological evidence on carcinogenesis of RFR. The Precautionary Principle, while not perfect, has been the effective lodestone for establishing public policy to guard the safety of the general public from potentially harmful materials, practices or technologies. Yet, when considering the exposure of the public to anthropogenic electromagnetic fields, especially those arising from mobile communications and their infrastructure, it seems to be ignored. The current exposure standards recommended by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) consider only thermal effects (tissue heating) as potentially harmful. However, there is mounting evidence of non-thermal effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation in biological systems and human populations. We review the latest literature on in vitro and in vivo studies, on clinical studies on electromagnetic hypersensitivity, as well as the epidemiological evidence for cancer due to the action of mobile based radiation exposure. We question whether the current regulatory atmosphere truly serves the public good when considered in terms of the Precautionary Principle and the principles for deducing causation established by Bradford Hill. We conclude that there is substantial scientific evidence that RFR causes cancer, endocrinological, neurological and other adverse health effects. In light of this evidence the primary mission of public bodies, such as the FCC to protect public health has not been fulfilled. Rather, we find that industry convenience is being prioritized and thereby subjecting the public to avoidable risks.

Harmonizing Magnetic Mitohormetic Regenerative Strategies: Developmental Implications of a Calcium-Mitochondrial Axis Invoked by Magnetic Field Exposure

Mitohormesis is a process whereby mitochondrial stress responses, mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), act cumulatively to either instill survival adaptations (low ROS levels) or to produce cell damage (high ROS levels). The mitohormetic nature of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure thus makes it susceptible to extraneous influences that also impinge on mitochondrial ROS production and contribute to the collective response. Consequently, magnetic stimulation paradigms are prone to experimental variability depending on diverse circumstances. The failure, or inability, to control for these factors has contributed to the existing discrepancies between published reports and in the interpretations made from the results generated therein. Confounding environmental factors include ambient magnetic fields, temperature, the mechanical environment, and the conventional use of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Biological factors include cell type and seeding density as well as the developmental, inflammatory, or senescence statuses of cells that depend on the prior handling of the experimental sample. Technological aspects include magnetic field directionality, uniformity, amplitude, and duration of exposure. All these factors will exhibit manifestations at the level of ROS production that will culminate as a unified cellular response in conjunction with magnetic exposure. Fortunately, many of these factors are under the control of the experimenter. This review will focus on delineating areas requiring technical and biological harmonization to assist in the designing of therapeutic strategies with more clearly defined and better predicted outcomes and to improve the mechanistic interpretation of the generated data, rather than on precise applications. This review will also explore the underlying mechanistic similarities between magnetic field exposure and other forms of biophysical stimuli, such as mechanical stimuli, that mutually induce elevations in intracellular calcium and ROS as a prerequisite for biological outcome. These forms of biophysical stimuli commonly invoke the activity of transient receptor potential cation channel classes, such as TRPC1.

Mapping the Landscape of Magnetic Field Effects on Neural Regeneration and Repair: A Combined Systematic Review, Mathematical Model, and Meta-Analysis

Magnetic field exposure is a well-established diagnostic tool. However, its use as a therapeutic in regenerative medicine is relatively new. To better understand how magnetic fields affect neural repair in vitro, we started by performing a systematic review of publications that studied neural repair responses to magnetic fields. The 38 included articles were highly heterogeneous, representing 13 cell types, magnetic field magnitudes of 0.0002-10,000 mT with frequencies of 0-150 Hz, and exposure times ranging from one hour to several weeks. Mathematical modeling based on data from the included manuscripts revealed higher magnetic field magnitudes enhance neural progenitor cell (NPC) viability. Finally, for those regenerative processes not influenced by magnitude, frequency, or time, we integrated the data by meta-analyses. Results revealed that magnetic field exposure increases NPC proliferation while decreasing astrocytic differentiation. Collectively, our approach identified neural repair processes that may be most responsive to magnetic field exposure.

Association between Mobile Phone Use and Incidence of Dementia: A Prospective Cohort Study Using the UK Biobank

INTRODUCTION

The rapid growth in mobile phone use has led to public concern about its potential effects on the risk of dementia. This study aimed to investigate the association between mobile phone use in daily life and the risk of dementia incidence in community-dwelling adults based on the data from the UK Biobank.

METHODS

Participants in the UK Biobank aged 60 years or older with no diagnosis of dementia at the time of recruitment were included in this prospective cohort study. A Cox regression model adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, general health factors, mental health, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and medication use was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and confidence interval (CI) of the association between mobile phone use and dementia risk.

RESULTS

The final analyses included 213,181 participants. During a median follow-up period of 12.4 years, 6,344 cases of incident dementia occurred. Mobile phone use displayed a modest association with lower risk of dementia incidence, with HRs of 0.85 (95% CI: 0.79-0.91), 0.85 (95% CI: 0.80-0.91), 0.78 (95% CI: 0.71-0.86), 0.86 (95% CI: 0.77-0.96), and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.70-0.98) for participants who reported phone call usage of fewer than 5 min, 5-29 min, 30-59 min, 1-3 h, and more than 3 h per week, respectively, compared with nonusers. In addition, the proportions of the association medicated by family/friend visits and other leisure/social activities were 2.62% (95% CI: -0.64-6.51) and 2.22% (95% CI: 1.12-4.12), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily mobile phone use is significantly associated with a reduced risk of incident dementia in community-dwelling adults in the UK Biobank population. This association seems to be mediated by improved social and mental activities.

Microwave Radiation and the Brain: Mechanisms, Current Status, and Future Prospects

Modern humanity wades daily through various radiations, resulting in frequent exposure and causing potentially important biological effects. Among them, the brain is the organ most sensitive to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure. Despite numerous correlated studies, critical unknowns surround the different parameters used, including operational frequency, power density (i.e., energy dose), and irradiation time that could permit reproducibility and comparability between analyses. Furthermore, the interactions of EMR with biological systems and its precise mechanisms remain poorly characterized. In this review, recent approaches examining the effects of microwave radiations on the brain, specifically learning and memory capabilities, as well as the mechanisms of brain dysfunction with exposure as reported in the literature, are analyzed and interpreted to provide prospective views for future research directed at this important and novel medical technology for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies on brain degeneration caused by microwave radiation. Additionally, the interactions of microwaves with biological systems and possible mechanisms are presented in this review. Treatment with natural products and safe techniques to reduce harm to organs have become essential components of daily life, and some promising techniques to treat cancers and their radioprotective effects are summarized as well. This review can serve as a platform for researchers to understand the mechanism and interactions of microwave radiation with biological systems, the present scenario, and prospects for future studies on the effect of microwaves on the brain.

High Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Improves Cognitive Performance Parameters in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease - An Exploratory Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Currently available medication for Alzheimer's disease (AD) slows cognitive decline only temporarily but has failed to bring about long term positive effects. For this slowly progressive neurodegenerative disease, so far, no disease modifying therapy exists.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to find out if non-pharmacologic non-invasive neuromodulatory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may offer a new alternative or an add on therapeutic strategy against loss of cognitive functions.

METHODS

In this exploratory intervention study, safety and symptom development before and after frontopolar cortex stimulation (FPC) using intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) at 10 subsequent working days was monitored as add-on treatment in 28 consecutive patients with AD. Out of these, 10 randomly selected patients received sham stimulation as a control. Serum concentrations of neurotransmitter precursor amino acids, immune activation and inflammation markers, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and nitrite were measured.

RESULTS

Treatment was well tolerated, and no serious adverse effects were observed. Improvement of cognition was detected by an increase in Mini Mental State Examination score (MMSE; p<0.01, paired rank test) and also by an increase in a modified repeat address phrase test, part of the 6-item cognitive impairment test (p<0.01). A trend to increase the clock drawing test (CDT; p = 0.08) was also found in the verum treated group. Furtheron, in 10 of the AD patients with additional symptoms of depression treated with iTBS, a significant decrease in the HAMD-7 scale (p<0.01) and a trend to lower serum phenylalanine concentrations (p = 0.08) was seen. No changes in the parameters tested were found in the sham treated patients.

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results may indicate that iTBS is effective in the treatment of AD. Also a slight influence of iTBS on the metabolism of phenylalanine was found after 10 iTBS sessions. An impact of iTBS to influence the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), as found in the previous series of treatment resistant depression, could not be seen in our first observational trial in 10 AD patients with comorbidity of depression. Longer treatment periods for several weeks in a higher number of AD patients with depression could cause more intense and disease modifying effects visible in different neurotransmitter concentrations important in the pathogenesis of AD.