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The dc characteristics of AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) were measured before and after irradiation with 2 MeV Ge+ ions at doses from 5 × 1010 to 5 × 1012 cm−2. The drain current, gate leakage current, and transconductance decreased monotonically with dose, while the drain-source resistance increased to a much greater extent than observed previously for proton irradiation of similar devices. The data are consistent with a strong decrease in electron concentration in the HEMT channel. During off-state electrical stressing of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs, the typical critical voltage for unirradiated devices was ∼13 V. By sharp contrast, no critical voltage was detected for proton irradiated HEMTs up to 35 V, indicating that the Ge irradiation had a strong influence on the electric field distribution near the gate electrode.

BackgroundDogs seized by law enforcement agencies during dogfighting investigations are at increased risk of Babesia gibsoni infection. A rapid and cost‐effective diagnostic test would increase the feasibility of mass screening of dogs for infection and monitoring treatment efficacy in B. gibsoni‐infected dogs.ObjectiveTo determine the performance of a point‐of‐need insulated isothermal PCR (iiPCR) test for diagnosis of B. gibsoni in dogs rescued in dogfighting investigations.AnimalsTwo hundred and thirty‐three dogs seized in dogfighting investigations.MethodsCross‐sectional study. Whole blood samples were tested for B. gibsoni and Babesia spp. by iiPCR. Results were compared to a reference standard comprised of concordant results from real‐time PCR in a commercial diagnostic laboratory and antibody titers.ResultsThe iiPCR system was quick to learn, portable, and had a short processing time of <2 hours. Sensitivity and specificity of the iiPCR assay for B. gibsoni were 90% (95% confidence interval [CI] 81–95%) and 99% (CI, 95–100%), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the iiPCR assay for Babesia spp. were 87% (CI, 78–93%) and 98% (CI, 0.94–99%), respectively.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceThe iiPCR system produced few false‐positive results, indicating that positive results are likely to represent true infections when used in high‐risk animals. The iiPCR system can fail to identify 10–15% of truly infected dogs. However, the portability, speed, and economy of the iiPCR system compared to testing through a reference laboratory can allow rescue groups to screen and identify infection in more dogs.