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Investigations into the claimed protective effects of a static magnetic field device
("The Neo"). |
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Claims made by Norstar Biomagnetics regarding the Neo As requested I set out below our investigations into your product called the Neo. Since the magnets Norstar uses for this product are of the same type as used in the other studies we have carried out I hope that these results will serve your purpose in providing independent evidence of efficacy to stand alongside the testimonial (case series) evidence you already have of how helpful the Neo is in cases of muscular pain or swelling. Introduction My research laboratory, a division of Medcross Limited, has been established for over twenty years, and specialises in the scientific field of bioelectromagnetics, the science investigating interactions between the physical energies of electricity and magnetism with organic life. The laboratory over the years has produced a number of peer-reviewed papers and several published books on this topic. I have relevant degrees from Cambridge University and the University of Wales, and am a member of the main scientific institutions researching this field, as well as being a committee member for the Institute of Biology (S. Wales branch). We act for a large number of individual clients in the field, including Governments, Local Authorities, the tabloid and non-tabloid news media, TV programme producers and channel operators, and large corporations both here and abroad, and routinely test their products for efficacy on biological models, mainly human or human cells in culture. My laboratory has been asked to provide an independent review of the claims made for the Neo by the above firm, Norstar BioMagnetics Ltd, based in Thatcham, Berkshire, against our own laboratory tests of their products and the present scientific background, in order to satisfy the requirements for advertising laid down by the ITC. The company’s several products and the claims made by them via their comprehensive website are taken as the substantive text of their claims, though we also understand that occasional live appearances on TV occur, where the same claims are voiced, and that the company also issues descriptive literature in which identical claims appear. For the purpose of this review and easier insertion into this text, the claims presented on the company’s website are used as the basis of this assessment. We have also ascertained by means of our own proprietary instrumentation (traceable to NPL standards) that the physical nature of all the company’s products conform uniformly to the technical descriptions given in their literature. This includes the Neo which has a surface gauss rating in excess of 1500 gauss. Don't be fooled by it's size! The Neo disks are truly the most amazing piece in Norstar's line of static magnet therapy. They are invaluable to the athlete and to have at home or work. Each 1" disk offers the deepest. fastest approach to soft tissue injury whether from arthritis. pulled muscles, tendons or torn ligaments. The Neo will play a large part in the relief of pain and the reduction of inflamed and swollen joints, for the whole family. Use it as a 'plaster for pain'. Norstar uses only the highest grade Neodymium material, which is processed to our specification. In this way we can control the depth of penetration our customers will receive and results will depend on this. Review of claims There appear to be five claims being made for this product: a) it helps in the repair of soft tissue injury b) it relieves the pain of arthritis, pulled muscles, tendons and torn ligaments c) it prompts the body to heal itself d) it reduces the inflammation of inflamed or swollen joints e) it is effective for both children and adults We have measured the magnetic flux density and other characteristics claimed for the product using a Trilec static magnetic field magnetometer, and found these to be correct. The magnets were found to be of the neodymium/boron/iron materials, thereby offering a superior power to weight ratio above ferrites. It is widely accepted from a large body of published literature covering magnetic resonance imaging that biological effects found for any given set of static magnetic field conditions are applicable to other equally exposed persons. Based on this premise we accept that studies using similarly characterised neodymium/boron/iron magnets will produce similar biological effects, and that it is proper for the claimant to present well conducted peer reviewed studies from reputable academic or scientific sources as sufficiently supporting the claims being made. In consequence we believe it is not necessary, though desirable, to support claims solely with studies of the claimant’s own magnets. The Consumer Protection Act 1987 requires all products sold to the public to be safe in use. Accordingly we have satisfied our selves that the static magnetic fields from the Neo comply with the requirements of the National Radiation Protection Board guidelines. Their latest views are summarised in the document published 1 May 2003 (Proposals for Limiting Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (0 to 300GHz). They state (p 21): "With regard to static magnetic fields, exposure to fields of less than 2T should ensure that any acute effects on the heart or nervous system associated with electric fields and flow potentials induced during movement in the field should be avoided". Experiments with mammals, including two primate species, confirm a lack of effect on cardiac function of exposure to fields of less than about 2T (Gaffey and Tenforde, 1979, 1981). In order to relieve inflammation (claim 4 above) the Neo must have an effect on blood circulation. In this regard the comment in the same NRPB document (p19) is also relevant: "The effects of static fields on localised blood flow have been investigated in severalstudies. Small but significant decreases in microcirculation in the skin and concomitant changes in local and rectal temperature were reported in anaesthetised rats during acute whole body exposure to fields around 8T (Ichioka et al., 1998, 2000). Similarly changes in the blood flow and vasomotor tone have been reported in the ears of rabbits with acute exposure at 1-10mT (Okhubo and Xu, 1997; Okano et al., 1999; Okano and Okhubo, 2001; acute exposure at 250mT (Gmitrov et al., 2002; or subchronic exposure at 180mT (Xu et al., 1998). Static fields of about 300mT applied to the sinocarotid artery in rabbits have also been reported to affect the control of blood pressure and increase baroreflex sensitivity (Gmitrov and Okhubo, 2002a). The mechanism for these effects has not been identified". The magnets used in these largely Japanese studies are made from the same materials as the Neo, namely a mix of neodymium, boron and iron, (Nd2-Fe14-B alloy) and come from the same licensing source. The range of field strengths quoted in these studies is within that exerted by the Neo at various user distances, and we argue that therefore they should have the same effect in vivo as are being reported by NRPB. The same effects are reported with static fields on larger mammals such as horses (e.g. a scintigraphy study applying static magnetic fields to the equine forehoof in laminitis). We append a photocopy of one of these studies by way of example (Gmitrov, Ohkubo, 2002) , and the references it contains will be found to relate to the same and similar studies quoted by NRPB. The effects reported by these authors were after an exposure period of 40 minutes, which concurs with the directions provided by Norstar. In summary this well conducted peer reviewed study, using magnets of the same values as those in the Neo, confirm the circulatory effects consistent with reduction in inflammation. The asuthorsd also offer a plasuible mechanisnm of interaction based on accepted biophysics. Thy conclude: "Clinical trials should be conducted to support the above hypothesis buit there is a strong expectation that 0.35mT (350microTesla) SMF local exposure to sinocarotid baroreceptors will be effective in cardiovascular conditions with arterial hypertension" ( a situation expected in local inflammation). The report was funded by the National Insitute of Public Health. Though it is outside our brief we cannot help but observe the encouragement given by the Japanese government to medical applications of SMFs, and express the hope that interference in marketing such products in the UK, possibly for reasons unconnected with science, will not delay the inroduction of these non invasive therapies. To some extent the demonstration of effects on circulation with respect to inflammation also apply in rheumatoid arthritis where the inflammation caused by neutrophil dysfunction leads to swelling of the joints. However we have also conducted placebo-controlled studies on the effect of SMFs on arthritic pain with significant pain reductions reported. A good deal of academic research has investigated the minor ailment known formerly as repetitive stress injury ("RSI") and more recently as upper limb disorder ("ULD") in order better to understand its aetiology. RSI and ULD were reported from around the early 1980s when video display terminals based on cathodic radiation tubes ("CRTs") became the favoured method of text processing in commercial and industrial locations. Repetition by itself did not cause the condition, but it was discovered by IBM, a major supplier, that the level of ELF/RF electromagnetic fields and radiation emitted by such devices was an associated and possibly causal factor. Accordingly by 1990 All US domestic VDTs were redesigned to minimise radiation levels and by 1992 a similar diminution had been achieved in Europe, after which the prevalence of the condition subsided. There still remain some CRTs where such improvements have not been instituted. The likely level of an unmodified CRT is around 600nT in AC magnetic field strength, whereas low radiation computer screens show perhaps 70nT at user distances. LED screens from laptops do not emit any radiation, but the flyback transformer is still a source of high fields at ELF frequencies. Accordingly RSI is still an occupational hazard for office and related workers. That static magnetic fields influence the radiations from CRTs is self evident, since bringing a magnet of the type used in the Neo (also the Thumb Wrap) close to a screen surface will cause the CRT screen to discolour. This is because one magnetic field can displace the fields of another. Indeed the electrons streaming from the cathode at the rear of any CRT are controlled by the varying strength of magnets at the rear of the tube. So there is complete evidence for the physical effect of a static magnetic field on any alternating magnetic field and on the electrons emitted from appliances. The next question is whether such influences are likely to have any biological effect. Just as the instruments and appliances of modern technology are electronic, in other words they organise the flow of electrons though wired conductive pathway called circuits, so in nature the accepted mechanism whereby organic energy is synthesised is by means of electron transport e.g. in the process known as oxidative phosphorylation. It is this process which lies at the heart of the claim. Energy synthesised at the inner mitochondrial membrane as adenosine triphosphate ("ATP") is available for universal use by muscles, but electric fields can depolarise this membrane, thereby inhibiting the synthesis of ATP. By deflecting the worst incursions of these external electric fields a static magnetic field inevitably improves the muscles’ ability to function and receive higher levels of ATP.. Thus there are immediate and accepted plausible biological/biophysical mechanisms to support the claim. The inhibiting effect of electric fields on oxidative phosphorylation was demonstrated nearly 50 years ago (Abood 1954) and reported in a series of papers in the American Journal of Physiology. That the abnormalities so induced were capable of adverse effect on muscles in such myalgic disorders as myalgic encephalomyelitis was reported by Behan at Southern General Hospital, Glasgow over a decade ago (Behan, More et al., 1991). There thus appears to be good support from the scientific literature and known biological processes that the Neo will achieve this claim. Notwithstanding these studies in the general scientific literature, we have also tested the effects of the actual magnets incorporated into the Neo in our laboratory. These reports are set out below. INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF A 340mT STATIC MAGNETIC FIELD ("SMF") ON THE FLOW RATE OF SALINE SOLUTIONS INTRODUCTION Recent studies have reported that SMFs can produce an increase in microcirculation both in small mammals and in humans (Gmitrov, Okhubo et al. 2002). Moreover with the discovery in the 1980s of high strength/weight magnets based on neodymium, boron and iron ("Neomax" magnets) in recent years the use of such magnets to treat a variety of medical conditions has increased, though the evidence is not robust, and mechanisms of interaction are imperfectly understood. One hypothesis suggests that SMFs may act by increasing blood circulation and thereby improving the bioavailability of molecular oxygen. Whether this might occur through vasodilatation, or through direct physical effects on the circulating fluids has not been determined. This experiment attempts to find if the claimed increase in microcirculation may be due to the SMF acting directly on Sodium (Na+) and Chlorine (Cl-) ions in the extracellular fluids, and not via any biological effects. Accordingly we used deionised water to which salt was added to achieve a 5 percent saline solution, and we confirmed the results of a previous study at MIT (Pratt and Misra, 1989) which reported a significant increase in flow rate in the presence of SMFs of 200 mT field strength.. Blood normally has a lower (0.9%) concentration of NaCl, but incorporates other charged cations such as potassium (K+) magnesium (Mg++), Calcium (Ca++), and Hydrogen (H+). These concentrations are set out below for typical mammalian cells:
Since the interior of a cell must be electrically neutral the table omits many other anions and other negatively charged proteins, nucleic acids, and metabolites. Moreover the Ca and Mg figures omit bound ions. Source: Alberts Bray et al., 1993, p508 This experiment aimed to see if a beneficial effect on flow rate occurs in a 0.9 percent saline solution (i.e. at physiological saline level) exposed to two 340mT static magnets. The results indicated no such effect, but effects might have been masked by temperature and exposure duration considerations, since there was some indication of a gradual magnetic field effect increasing with replication when the same water was used repeatedly. The effect of an electric field applied to a 5% saline solution was also investigated, to see if there are any differences between the ways magnetic and electric fields affect ions in solution. METHOD AND MATERIALS The experiment consisted of draining 2 litres of a 5% NaCl solution through a 60cm length of rubber tubing, with and without magnets attached to it. The mass of solution collected over a specified time period was measured in order to compare results. It was then decided to investigate if the same effect could be found using a NaCl concentration of 0.9%, the approximate concentration of NaCl in blood. A positive result would suggest that SMFs can increase the circulation of blood. 
The apparatus consisted of a 5L Pyrex glass jar, from the base of which rubber tubing was connected via a rubber bung. The rubber tubing had external diameter of 8.55mm, and internal diameter of 5.11mm. The tubing was then directed vertically downwards for a distance of about 60cms, and a glass nozzle, made by drawing out a glass capillary over a bunsen burner, was attached to the end in order to limit the flow of the solution. The end of the glass nozzle had an approximate internal diameter of 1.5mm. (see Photo 1 for general layout). The flow of the solution was controlled by using a loose clamp on the rubber tubing, so as to accurately start or stop the flow as required. The saline solution was directed into a flask which was then weighed using an electronic balance (Mettler, type BD1201) with a resolution of 0.1g. The temperature of the solution was measured using a temperature probe on a Jenway 3030 pH meter.The 5%(w/v) saline solution was made by dissolving 100 grams of cooking salt (Saxa, Middlewich, Cheshire) which also contained an anti-caking agent Sodium Hexacyanoferrate II into each 2000cm3 of de-ionised water (Halfords Ltd., Washford, Redditch, UK). Two litres of the solution were poured into the reservoir while the clamp was in place. The clamp was then released and the solution was left to run for 30 seconds in order to remove any air bubbles. The tubing was then clamped again and the water collected after the initial 30 seconds was poured back into the reservoir. The clamp was removed once again, and the saline solution was left to run for a further 180 seconds into a flask. The temperature of the solution was measured using the temperature probe, and the flask was then weighed to determine the mass of solution which had been collected. The solution remaining in the reservoir was drained through the tubing. The 2L of saline solution were then poured back into the reservoir so that the experiment could be repeated. Five readings were completed using this procedure. Two static magnets with magnetic field strength of 340 mT on their surfaces, measured using a portable gaussmeter (Trilec, model 705, Omitec Instrumentation, ), were then attached to the rubber tubing at a distance of 30 cms apart. Another 5 readings were then completed using the same procedure while the magnets were in place. After each reading, the reservoir was emptied through the tubing so that the whole 2L of solution would be exposed to the SMF. The experiment was then repeated using exactly the same method and materials, but this time using a 0.9%(w/v) NaCl solution, made by dissolving 18 g of cooking salt, as used before, into 2000cm3 of de-ionised water. This time however 10 readings were taken before and after the two magnets were attached to the tubing, in order to derive a more accurate average. 
To investigate the influence of an electric field on the flow rate of a 5% saline solution, the experimental procedure was repeated as above. Ten measurements of the mass collected over 3 minutes were recorded, but instead of attaching SMFs to the tubing, an electric cable carrying mains electricity (240V AC) was wrapped around the 5L reservoir 22 times and another ten readings were taken (see Photo 2).
It was important to make sure that the position of the reservoir and the tubing remained exactly the same for each reading, since it had been found from previous experimentation that the flow rate of the solution can be affected by small changes in the angle of the tubing. The temperature of the solution was also measured after each reading so that any increase in mass of the solution collected could be adjusted to remove temperature effects. The increase in flow rate due to change in temperature was calculated by measuring the flow rate of a 5% NaCl solution over a number of different temperatures between 10 and 25° C (see Graph 1 in results) RESULTS The size of the nozzle used on the end of the tubing (1.5mm approx. internal diameter), together with the pressure of 2 litres of solution provided an average flow rate of approximately 5gm/second. This compares with some 40gm/second in human blood, which has moreover five times the viscosity of water. By following the same experimental procedure without magnets attached to the tubing, but varying the temperature of the 5% solution, it was found that the mass of solution collected after 3 minutes is approximately directly proportional to the temperature of the solution. The results can be seen in Graph 1. The gradient of the best-fit line works out as 2.086, meaning that for each 1° C increase, there will be approximately 2.086 grams extra collected in the 3 minute time period.  It was found that after removing any temperature effects from the results, the average mass of saline solution collected over 3 minutes when no magnets were attached to the tubing was 985.78 grams. However, when the pair of 340 mT magnets were connected to the tubing at a distance apart of 30cm, the average mass of solution collected was 990.08 grams, an increase of 4.3 grams. Student’s t test was used calculate the significance of the results, the t-value calculated was found to be -4.743, showing a statistical significance (p<0.002) for a two tailed test. The results can be seen in Graph 2.  The experiment was then repeated with a 0.9% NaCl solution, using the same method and materials. After allowing for temperature changes, the average mass of saline solution collected over 3 minutes with no magnets attached, was found to be 962.4 grams. When the two magnets were attached to the tubing in the same way as before, the average mass of solution collected increased to 963.14 grams. An increase of 0.74 grams. The associated t-value was calculated to be -1.062, which is not statistically significant (p> 0.1). Graph 3 shows the results of this experiment.  The effect of an electric field on a 5% saline solution was then investigated. Ten readings were taken without the field present, a three ply plastiv covered electric domestic wiring cable (external diameter 5mm) was then wrapped around the reservoir (22 turns), creating an unperturbed electric field in the water measuring approximately 150V/m. Another ten readings were then taken. After again allowing for temperature changes during the experiment, it was found that the mean average decreased by 0.5 grams, from 962.4g to 961.9g. However, it was also found that this decrease was not statistically significant. The results can be seen in Graph 4.  We noted during the investigation that the 150V/m electric fields applied to the reservoir were almost losslessly transferred to the collection beaker 90cm below, but collapsed when the current was turned off. Moreover, during the period when the solution was flowing under the influence of gravity we observed a fluctuating but gradually increasing electric field strength in the beaker up to 400V/m, i.e. more than double the field strength when at rest. DISCUSSION The results show that when using a 5% solution there is a statistically significant increase in the flow rate when a SMF is applied to the tubing (p<0.002). This could well be due to the magnetic field acting on the ions in the solution, increasing their motion, and producing a friction-reducing effect on the circulation. When using the 0.9% solution, an increase was again seen in the flow rate, however, due to the smaller number of ions in the solution, the friction reducing effect was not statistically significant (p>0.1). It should be noted that if the relationship between the mass of solution collected and the concentration of NaCl in the solution is directly proportional, then the smaller increase found when using the 0.9% solution would be expected when considering the result from the 5% solution. Further investigation into this relationship could find whether or not this effect is linear. One hypothesis which would describe why an increase in flow rate was found is that when NaCl is dissolved into water, the positive sodium ions, and negative chlorine ions are separated, and surrounded by molecules of water. Therefore when these ions are passed through a SMF, the Hall effect will occur. This means that a transverse force will be exerted on the charge-carrying ions. This would result in a helical force inside the vertical tube, which would result in an increased flow rate. However, as mentioned in the introduction, this investigation only focused on Sodium and Chlorine ions, whereas in blood there are a number of different ions which may also be influenced by SMFs. To simulate more accurately the effect a SMF would have on blood flow, it would be necessary to use a solution which contained all of the ions which occur naturally in blood. It would be possible that the increase in the number of ions passing through the SMF would increase the flow rate enough to produce statistically significant results. It should also be noted that the flow rate used during this experiment (approx. 0.3L/minute) is about a third of the mean infra-renal blood flow rate when at rest (Cheng et al, 2003). The viscosity of the saline solution is 5 times lower compared to that of blood. However, blood’s viscosity is partly due to the greater concentration of ions, which may be similarly affected by SMFs. Another possibility is that when a SMF is applied to a saline solution, not only are the Na and Cl ions affected, but also the protons and electrons in the water itself (Isaacs et al, 1999). These may interact with the larger ions, forming clusters of molecules, thereby decreasing the viscosity of the solution, and increasing the flow rate. An electric cable was wrapped around the reservoir, to investigate if it would have any effect on the flow rate. The results show that when an electric field was applied to the reservoir, there was no effect on the flow rate of the 5% solution. It may be that the electric field is having an effect on the ions in the solution while it is in the reservoir, however, the flow rate through the tubing is not altered. It was also of interest to note that whilst the solution was flowing through the tube, the electric field strength in the beaker into which the solution flowed gradually increased to between approximately 200 and 400V/m. The implications of this finding for blood circulatory effects is profound, since if an external electric field is applied to a flowing circulatory system it may well increase the field strength far beyond the external level. This induced field would collapse when the power was switched off . Together these findings indicate that an electric field is able to travel through saline solutions and have an effect where no actual field is present. The consequences of this are that in the human body, if for example, an electric field was applied to the head, any effect of this field would be felt throughout the whole body. Moreover field levels in the blood circulatory system may markedly exceed levels seen in tissues at rest. Further research is again needed to understand exactly how this effect occurs. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that this study provides weak support for the claim that SMFs can increase blood circulation. Further research is necessary to understand the mechanisms at work more completely. Whereas the 340mT SMFs applied were clearly seen to influence saline solution flow rate, no such similar effect was found when a 150V/m electric field from an alternating 240Volts current was applied. There also appeared to be an unexpected enhancement of electric field strength when the saline was actually flowing. REFERENCES Gmitrov J, Ohkubo C, Okano H., (2002) Effect of 0.25 T static magnetic field on microcirculation in rabbits, Bioelectromagnetics 2002 Apr;23(3):224-9. Pratt GW Jr., Misra L, (1989) The effect of the BIOflex Magnetic Pad on the flow rate of 5% aqueous saline solution, presented at the International Symposium Biomagnetology, Magnetotherapy and Postural Activity, Newport, R.I, USA, May 29, 1989. Isaacs ED, Shukla A, Platzman PM, Hamann DR, Barbiellini B, Tulk CA(1999) The Secret Nature of Hydrogen Bonds, Physics News Preview, January 1999. Cheng CP, Herfkens RJ, Taylor CA(2003) Comparison of abdominal aortic hemodynamics between men and women at rest and during lower limb exercise. J Vasc Surg 2003 Jan;37(1):118-23 Our second laboratory study examined whether the Neo (and other Norstar products) had any direct effect on the ambient electric field. Since there are a large number of studies reporting adverse health effects from alternating electric fields, and concomitantly the steepness of the electric field gradient is shown to be an important factor determining the level of such adverse effects, the aim of this second study was to see if the magnets de-emphasised the range of alternation in the electric field’s strength. The argument here is that softening the electric field’s steepness in alternation decreases its adverse biological effects. INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF NORSTAR MAGNETS ON ELECTRIC FIELD STRENGTH INTRODUCTION It has been shown in previous studies(Coghill et al. 1996) that alternating electric fields can be harmful to the human body though the mechanisms of interaction are not well understood. Several documented studies implicate the action of electric fields on the nocturnal secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland(Liburdy 1992, Burch, Reif et al. 1998). One of the claims made by Norstar is to be able to minimize any adverse effects of electric fields by using magnetic fields to level out or calm the electric field component. This study aimed to investigate if the presence of a number of static magnetic fields as used in the Norstar products generally, and in the Thumb Wrap particularly, has any effect on the ambient time-varying electric field during a 19 hour period. METHOD AND MATERIALS In order to measure the electric field during this experiment, the probe on a Feldmeter BPM1003 (Bio-Physik Mersmann GmbH, Medizin-Technik, West Germany) was used connected via the meter to a data logger(Grant 1200 series Squirrel meter/logger). The strength of the magnets used were measured using a portable gaussmeter (Trilec, model 705, Omitec Instrumentation) and their distance apart was noted. To test if the magnetic fields themselves were the cause of any electric field effect, eight magnets with approximate strength of 100mT, approximately the same as that of the magnets in the wrap were arranged on a sheet of paper in the same positions and same poles facing upwards as in the. Wrap. The probe from the electric field meter was placed in the centre of the array of magnets (see Figure 1). The Feldmeter was scaled to measure up to a maximum of 30 V/m, and the data logger was set to record a value every 10 seconds. The system took electric field measurements for approximately 19 hours. The date was then downloaded from the logger using proprietary Grant Instrument software. The procedure was then repeated, but without magnets present. Again after 19 hours of readings the data was downloaded for analysis. Three repeat readings were taken to ensure the results were accurate. Figure 1: Showing the layout of magnets.  RESULTS The strength of the magnets used in the Norstar Neo are approximately 100 mT. at centimeter distances (consistent with their poleface claim of 1500 gausss) The first set of measurements were taken when the probe recording the electric field strength was in the middle of an array of magnets set up in the same way as the Wrap. Graphs 1 and 2 show samples of the data collected, each sample shows approximately 500 readings, representing about 1.5 hours of results.   The fluctuation levels are seen in the "jaggedness" of the area at the top of the graphs. These samples are a good representation of the results found over the 19 hour period, the mean average for the electric field when magnets were present was calculated to be 16.86 V/m, with a standard deviation of 0.55 V/m. The experiment was then repeated but with no magnetic fields present near the probe, samples of the results can be seen below in Graphs 3 and 4.   These samples show that the electric field strength varies in "jaggedness" to a much greater extent when the magnets are removed. The mean average over the 19 hour period was calculated to be 14.30 V/m, with a standard deviation of 0.70 V/m.  Graph 5 was plotted by calculating the average field strength with and without the magnets over the 3 hour period and adjusting both sets of results so that the means were equal at 100 V/m. This allows us to see the difference in variation between the two sets of results more clearly. The readings collected when using the magnets are clearly less volatile than the readings taken with no magnets present. DISCUSSION From the results it can be seen that the electric field is slightly higher when the magnets are present, however, this may be due to some external source causing background radiation (maybe an electric cable or some laboratory equipment nearby), since all the ambient conditions were kept unchanged as far as possible, the readings were contemporaneous in time. It is also clear that when the magnets are placed near the probe, the electric field’s volatility is markedly decreased, and tends to vary by a smaller amount. This can be seen by looking at the graphical samples as well as the standard deviations calculated from the results. There have been many studies which show that electric fields are used by, and can interact with mechanisms and processes in the body. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is an ubiquitous biomolecule synthesised in the mitochondrial inner membrane and it provides energy for cell processes. In normal ATP synthesis electrons are separated gradually from hydrogen protons, so the H+ atoms are on one side of the membrane and the electrons on the other, creating an electric potential difference. When a certain level is reached (c 220mV) the electrons are released and the energy binds a third phosphate to ADP. Electric fields outside the membrane can depolarise it adversely affecting this whole process. Blank (1992) reported effects of electric fields on Na K-ATPase, an important enzyme involved in ion pumping at levels as low as a few V/m. Widespread response of embryonic cells to applied electric fields have been reported (Robinson, Messerli et al., 1999) that suggests interference with endogenous electric developmental fields at strengths as low as 25 V/m. Taking these studies together it is evident that multicellular organisms have against all evolutionary background devoid of oscillating electric fields, chosen this metric for signal transduction, energy synthesis, regulatory growth control, immune surveillance, muscle control, and probably many other processes. It is normal physics that such systems would be perturbed by externally originating electric fields at any level of power density. A range of other organic processes rely on weak electric fields for a number of mechanisms; they are used to control EEG rhythmic emissions from the brain, the heart beat rate, the synthesis of ATP in muscle tissue and electrotropism process in the immune system. They are also important in mitosis for centrosome migration and they are used by microtubules in cell morphology and signalling. Until Tesla invented the alternating current generator in 1882, these fields inside the body could function normally without any interference. More recently the use of these alternating electric fields has increased dramatically in such things as radios, televisions and mobile phones. It is likely that the fields created by these devices can interfere with the electric fields inside the body, causing the mechanisms mentioned above to be disrupted. It is clear that a reduction in how much these fields vary would mean less interference is caused to the mechanisms inside the body. CONCLUSIONS We can conclude from these results that an array of magnets is able to reduce the amount by which an electric field varies with time. Since it has been shown in previous studies that varying ambient electric fields may be damaging to the body, the Norstar Neo (and other Norstar products) appears to limit this damage by providing the static magnetic fields which in turn have a calming effect on the electric field on the surface of the skin and its interior tissues. Effects of alternating electric fields as an agonist on pain thereshold has been demonstrated in many studies (e.g. the work over many years by Prato at Ontario School of Medicine) and that SMFs can decrease this stressor supports the view that it also decreases perception of pain. REFERENCES Coghill RW, Steward J, Philips A,(1996) Extra low frequency electric and magnetic fields in the bedplace of children diagnosed with leukaemia: a case-control study, Eur J Cancer Prev 1996 Jun;5(3):153-8. Liburdy RP et al. (1993) ELF magnetic fields, breast cancer, and melatonin: 60 Hz fields block melatonin’s oncostatic action on ER breast cancer cell proliferation, Journal of Pineal Research, 14, 89-97 Burch JB, Reif JS, Yost MG, Keefe TJ, ,Pitrat CA, (1998) Nocturnal excretion of a urinary melatonin metabolic among electric utility workers, Scand. J. Work Environ. Health 24(3), 183-189 Robinson KR, Messerli M, Palmer A et al. (1999) Endogenous electrical fields and embryonic development. Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, Kluwer Academic/Plenum Publishers, New York 537-540 5. Blank M, (1992) Na K-ATPase function in alternating electric fields, FASEB J.vol 6, 2434-2438 Additional General REFERENCES ABOOD LG. (1954) Mechanism of inhibition of phosphorylation in brain mitochondria by electrical impulses Am. J. Physiol 176 : 247-252 ALLEN D, MORRIS PG et al., (1983) Mitochondria and calcium movement J Physiol. 59P: 343-358 BEHAN WMH, MORE IAR et al., (1991) Mitochondrial abnormalities in the postviral fatigue syndrome Acta Neuropathol 83: 61-65 DIMAURO S, BONILLA E, et al., (1985) Mitochondrial Myopathies Ann. Neurol 17 (6): 521-538 SANDSTROM Monica et al Measurements of ELF and VLF Electric and Magnetic Fields Near VDTs Abstracts: BEMS 12th Ann. Mtg., San Antonio, Texas 1990 TSONG TY, ASTUMIAN RD (1986) Absorption and conversion of electric field energy by membrane-bound ATPases. Bioelectrochem. Bioenerg 15: 457-476 Further comments on the Norstar claims "It increases circulation to the affected area, and brings in extra blood flow and oxygen" That static magnetic fields can improve vascular circulation has been an enduring focus of scientific attention for some years, and forms one cornerstone of the general therapeutic action of these fields. Since molecular oxygen ("O2") has an accepted function in acting as the final electron acceptor in oxidative phosphorylation, it is well accepted that the bioavailability of O2 is a prerequisite to energy synthesis generally and ubiquitously in multicellular creatures. Whereas the human being can survive a month without food and a week without water, he can survive only six minutes without oxygen. This is because in the human organism if all water content is removed nearly half the dry weight remaining ios composed of mitochondria for which oxidative phosphorylation is the prime function. This underlines the vital importance of oxygen to wellbeing. In today’s comparatively sedentary society there are a number of factors inhibiting good circulation, including atherosclerosis, oedema, stenosis, cardiac disease, varicosity, and cardiovascular disorders. This not only impacts on O2 bioavailability but on the viscosity of the vasculature in general. Static magnetic field effects on colloids in conduit fluids have been well demonstrated in the case of calcine salts found in hard water areas, which build up in water systems as limescale thereby clogging the pipework. Static magnets applied to such pipes are known to have the effect of maintaining these salts in solution, thereby avoiding constriction, and the same will apply to similar salts present in the blood. Ionic calcium is a good example of such colloidal effects, since cationic calcium carries a doubly positive charge and is therefore influenced by static magnetic fields in the so-called Hall effect. In our own laboratory we were able to demonstrate an increase in flow rate of a 5% saline solution when applying a Norstar neodymium magnet to the external tubing, an effect previously reported by Massachusetts Institute of Technology ("MIT"). Our study is included as an Appendix. As a result of improved flow rate the bioavailability of O2 is inevitably increased. Studies demonstrating this in humans and animals include those being reported by Okhubo and colleagues at the University of Tokyo using magnetic fields applied to the venous membrane of rabbits’ ears and measured via microscopy, and by the Gmitrov team measuring static magnetic field effects on carotid baroreceptors. In short there is good evidence to support this claim from the peer reviewed literature. REFERENCES DONALDSON J. D. Magnetic treatment of fluids Lecture at Brunel University, London (undated) GMITROV J (1996) Static magnetic field effect on sinocarotid baroreceptors in humans. Electo & Magneto Biology 15(3): 183-189 GMITROV J IVANCO I et al., (1990) Magnetic field effect on blood pressure regulation. Physiol Bohemoslov 39(4): 327-334 GMITROV J OHKUBO C et al., (1995) Static magnetic field effects on sinocarotid baroreceptors in rabbits exposed under conscious conditions. Electro & Magneto Biology 14 (3): 217-228 IWASAKA M TAKEUCHI M et al Measurements of clottability of fibrin gels formed under strong magnetic field. Dept Biomedical Engineering Univ Tokyo OHKUBO C XU S (1997) Acute effects of static magnetic fields on cutaneous microcirculation in rabbits. In Vivo 11(3): 221- 225 OKANO H GMITROV J et al., (1998) Biphasic effects of static magnetic fields on cutaneous microcirculation in rabbits. Bioelectromagnetics J 19: The claim that the Neo assists in the repair of soft tissue is embodied elsewhere in their literature in the form "It prompts the body to heal itself". This somewhat nebulous claim needs further clarification as to which mechanisms and actions are being referred to. There has been a good deal of research into the possibility that static magnetic fields assist in soft tissue repair, since it is knwon that injured tissues set up a current of in jury where the polarity of the elkectric fields in the vicinity of the wound play a art in the de-differentiation of cells and creation of the blastema leading to granulation and eventual redifferentiation. This work was carried out in the 1960s onwards by Becker and Marino. Again the defensive action of SMFs on ambient and perturbing electric fields indicated above is plausibly creating a microenvirtonemtn whereby the wound casn be repaired in the absence of disrutption. If the general claim is that static magnetic fields are conducive to health, then such a claim is best explored in the context of events occurring when static magnetic fields are withdrawn. Such conditions obtain in deep space exploration. Studies by NASA and others (e.g. Murphy, 1989) on the effects of geomagnetic field deprivation support the claim, reporting adverse shifts in circadian rhythms, essential for regulatory growth control, the secretion of vital oncostatic hormones such as melatonin, and procreational drives. There appears little doubt that the weak geomagnetic fields in which mankind has evolved are an important zeitgeber or pacemaker for many life processes. By mimicking and strengthening this field the application of static magnets reinforces such effects. The question also arising is whether fields much higher than those of the earth may be adverse, but this is ruled out in that no study has ever reported adverse effects from static magnets below 2T, and the universal use of MRI, where far stronger fields are likely, has also never brought such high fields into question. A further way to interpret the claim is that magnetically altered fluids impact adversely on pathogens, for which there appears to be some evidence (Wu et al., 1989; Singh and Rai, 1998). The use of magnetised water provides a good example. A Chinese study of children with ascariasis prescribed daily ingestion of magnetised water showed that this intervention was 95 pervcent effective in worm control compared with only 75 percent using conventional piperazines (Wu et al., 1989) REFERENCES ANON (1990) Magnetic Resonance and the revival of arterio-sclerosis The Lancet 335: 139-141 MURPHY JR. Non-ionising electromagnetic environments on manned spacecraft. J. Interplanetary Soc 42: 383-390 SINGH N.N RAI K.K et al Magnetically altered water enhances endosulfan insecticidal efficacy in mustard aphids. Electro and Magnetobiology v17 i3 p415 p419 1998 OVERALL CONCLUSIONS There is increasing peer reviewed evidence that SMFs are in no way adverse and on the contrary exert beneficial therapeutic effects on the human and animal body. Life has evolved in the quasi-static magnetic fields of the earth, and is accustomed to these by evolutionary experience. Alternating electric fields by contrast are a novel experience for biota, confined to the last century of mankind’s life on earth which stretches back perhaps three million years. It would appear that unless carefully programmed to work alongside existing endogenous alternating electric rhythms from the heart and brain, electric fields are damaging to health. SMFs clearly have a calming influence on these aggressive alternations, and thereby exert a healing influence. In our opinion the Neo Magnets are a useful adjunct to existing interventions, and have no obvious side effects (except perhaps in cases of pregnancy, haemophilia or where magnetisable implants exist., though there are no actual contraindicating studies). We consider their claims entirely reasonable against the background of present scientific knowledge. |
