Medical and biological problems in the use of equipment generating electromagnetic broadband surge pulses

Introduction. In recent decades, there have been created powerful pulsed sources of electromagnetic radiation capable of generating and transmitting high peak signals with effective antennas. Wide-band and ultra-wide-band (NB, UWB) generator complexes in the frequency range from 0.5 Hz to 100 Hz, concentrating the energy in ultrashort pulses in duration, have become widespread. Most studies of the biological effects of these radiations are associated with their special purpose (directional action). Today, high-voltage pulsed radiation is widely used in such areas as radiolocation and navigation, radio communication, in semiconductor and composite technology, chemical compounds, medicine, and others. Biomedical aspects of ultra-wideband radiation pulses have not been studied enough. The issues of the safety and regulation for occupational exposure are considered. The studies of broadband electromagnetic pulses effect on outbred white mice during generator equipment testing were carried out in experimental conditions. 

Material and methods. Behavioral responses in the “open field” test, memory in a “T-shaped maze”, working capacity in “forced swimming” test were studied, as well the temperature response, electrostatic body potential and body mass were measured. The studies were implemented in an anechoic chamber. The antenna system of the high-voltage pulse generator enabled us to generate a uniform field having a volume sufficient for the group exposure. Pulse simulator was remote-controlled. The study covered three groups of animals exposed daily for 15, 30 and 60 minutes during five days and a control group. Animals were studied during and after expose periods. 

Results. Statistically significant changes were revealed in 30 and 60 minutes daily exposure to 100 kV / m voltage pulses, which evidences disturbances in behavioral responses, motor activity, memory, and work capacity. A decline in the electrostatic body potential was shown. Thermogenic effect was not seen. The pilot study findings prove the biological activity of broadband electromagnetic pulses in short-term experiment.