Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Macro- and trace element concentrations in blood plasma and cerebrospinal fluid of dairy cows exposed to electric and magnetic fields med./bio.

Published in: Bioelectromagnetics 1999; 20 (6): 358-364

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To investigate the effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on concentration of macro- and trace minerals in blood plasma and cerebrospinal fluid in cows.

Background/further details

Eight pregnat cows and seven sterilized heifers were exposed continuously for 30 days. Blood samples and cerebrospinal fluid were collected for 3 consecutive befor exposure, last 3 days of exposure and for 3 days starting 5 days after exposure. Concentrations of calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese, phosphorus, and potassium were determined.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 60 Hz
Exposure duration: 30 days
Exposure 2: 60 Hz
Exposure duration: 30 days

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 60 Hz
Type
Exposure duration 30 days
Exposure setup
Exposure source
Chamber 15 m long x 10 m wide x 3 m high containing eight wooden crates
Additional info 14 rectangular coils 10 m x 4 m each
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
magnetic flux density 30 µT - measured - horizontal field

Exposure 2

Main characteristics
Frequency 60 Hz
Type
Exposure duration 30 days
Exposure setup
Exposure source
  • Two plates 9 m x 6.5 m hanging 0.4 m from the ceiling, fixed with synthetic insulators
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
electric field strength 10 kV/m - measured - vertical field

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

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

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

EMF exposure leads to a decrease of magnesium in blood plasma, whereas concentrations of calcium and phosphorus were increased. Concentrations of iron and manganese were decreased in cerebrospinal fluid.

Study character:

Study funded by

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