Letter to the Editor concerning the paper "A novel database of bio-effects from non-ionizing radiation"

Abstract

Overview

The authors describe their involvement with the EMF-Portal, an extensive database hosted by RWTH Aachen University in Germany, which catalogs scientific publications related to the effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF). The World Health Organization recognizes this platform as a vital reference source.

Financial Challenges and Database Management

• The EMF-Portal has received primary funding from German sources despite having an international user base.
• Financial constraints have limited the continuous updating of certain categories within the database, specifically concerning radiofrequency and mobile communications.
• Recent financial contributions have allowed the inclusion of new articles up to April 30, 2018.

Conclusion

In response to the bias observed in the classification of effect studies within other databases, the authors have opted to refrain from using a simplified effect/no effect feature in the EMF-Portal to foster a more nuanced discussion of study results.