Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Effects of electromagnetic fields emitted by cellular phones on the electroencephalogram during a visual working memory task med./bio.

Published in: Int J Radiat Biol 2000; 76 (12): 1659-1667

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To assess the possible effects of electromagnetic field exposure by mobile phones on the event related desynchronisation/synchronisation (ERD/ERS) responses of the 4-6, 6-8, 8-10 and 10-12 Hz EEG frequency bands during cognitive processing.

Background/further details

ERD/ERS is a pattern in the EEG signal, that shows functional alterations of neuronal networks. EEG frequencies are subdivided into frequency bands. The simultaneously recorded responses of different EEG frequency bands differ from each other and reflect different cognitive and/or mental processes.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 902 MHz
Modulation type: pulsed
Exposure duration: continuous for about 30 min

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 902 MHz
Type
Exposure duration continuous for about 30 min
Modulation
Modulation type pulsed
Pulse width 0.557 ms
Repetition frequency 217 Hz
Additional info

One time slot was used. Pulse width is probably a misprint instead of 0.577 ms.

Exposure setup
Exposure source
Distance between exposed object and exposure source 20 mm
Chamber The subject was seated in a comfortable chair in the registration room and was instructed to look at a TV screen placed 1.5 m in front of him/her and to avoid unnecessary eye movements.
Setup A standard GSM phone was mounted to the subject's head over the right posterior temporal region in a normal use position. The antenna was located about 20 mm from the skin. The phone was operated via a computer from an adjacent room.
Additional info Each EEG test session was subdivided into two segments, with or without EMF in single-blind, counterbalanced order. The total testing time was about 60 min.
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
power 0.25 W mean - - -

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

Investigated system:
Investigated organ system:
Time of investigation:
  • before exposure
  • during exposure
  • after exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

The presence of electromagnetic fields altered the ERD/ERS responses in the 6-8 and 8-10 Hz frequency bands during mental processes requiring attention. The data do not, however, allow any conclusions concerning the possible effects of mobile phone use on cognition.

Study character:

Study funded by

Replication studies

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