Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Effects of GSM-like radiofrequency on distortion product otoacoustic emissions of rabbits: comparison of infants versus adults med./bio.

Published in: Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2009; 73 (8): 1143-1147

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To investigate the effects of 1800 MHz GSM-like radiofrequency exposure on the cochlear functions of female infant and adult rabbits .

Background/further details

18 infant rabbits (one month old) and 18 adult rabbits (13 months old) were randomly divided into four groups (each n=9): 1) infant control group; 2) infant exposure group; 3) adult control group; 4) adult exposure group. All groups were compared with each other.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 1,800 MHz
Modulation type: pulsed
Exposure duration: continuous for 15 min/day on 7 days

General information

two groups of animals were exposed: i) infant rabbits : exposure starting at an age of one month ii) adult rabbits

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 1,800 MHz
Type
Exposure duration continuous for 15 min/day on 7 days
Modulation
Modulation type pulsed
Pulse width 0.576 ms
Duty cycle 12.5 %
Repetition frequency 217 Hz
Pulse type rectangular
Exposure setup
Exposure source
Setup horn antenna placed over the top of the cage in a shielded room
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
power 0.1 W - - - -

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

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

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)


The data showed that the mean DPOAE amplitudes of the adult exposure group were significantly lower than the values of the other three groups. The mean DPOAE amplitudes of the infant exposure group were significantly higher than those of the other three groups.
Harmful effects of GSM-like 1800 MHz radiofrequency exposure were detected more in the adult female rabbits than infant female rabbits. Prolonged exposure and related temperature increase in the ear canal may decrease the DPOAE amplitudes. Water containing medium in the middle ear of infant rabbits may play a protective role from radiofrequency damage.

Study character:

Study funded by

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