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We present a novel concept for wideband, wide-scan phased array applications. The array is composed by connected-slot elements loaded with artificial dielectric superstrates. The proposed solution consists of a single multi-layer planar printed circuit board (PCB) and does not require the typically employed vertical arrangement of multiple PCBs. This offers advantages in terms of complexity of the assembly and cost of the array. We developed an analytical method for the prediction of the array performance, in terms of active input impedance. This method allows to estimate the relevant parameters of the array with a negligible computational cost. A design example with a bandwidth exceeding one octave (VSWR

We present an analytical method to model artificial dielectric layers (ADLs) of finite height. Starting from the closed-form solution for the scattering from a single layer under plane wave illumination, the formulation is extended to the multi-layer case, by including the higher-order interaction between parallel layers in analytical form. The method can be used to describe the radiation of a source located in the close proximity of the ADL. Experimental data obtained from a prototype demonstrator are presented and show a good agreement with the results of the theoretical analysis.

We have analysed dataon exacerbation rates, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, and lesion burdens using the results of two neutralizing antibody (NAB) assays (CPE and MxA) from the pivotal relapsing i/remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) trial of interferon beta-1b (IFNB) with a longitudinal approach, where the influence of NABs in individual patients is assessed by comparing responses during NABpositive and NAB-negative periods. There are apparent influences on exacerbation rate related to dose of IFNB, titer level, and duration of positivity. With the MxA assay, exacerbation rates after switching to NAB-positive status are estimated to be 28% higher [95% confidence interval (CI): ( o/15%, 92%)] and o/2% higher [95% CI: ( o/21%, 21%)] on the low- and high-dose IFNB arms, respectively. When compared with all NAB-negative periods, exacerbation rates during NAB-positive periods are estimated to be 29% higher [95% CI: (0%, 67%)] and 18% higher [95% CI: (0%, 40%)] on the low- and high-dose IFNB arms, respectively. When NAB-positive patients again become NAB-negative, no evidence of increased exacerbation rates could then be demonstrated. More detailed exploratory analyses indicate that the effects are most evident in the approximately 20% of patients developing high titers. In these patients, the influence of NABs may be self-limited, as titers often diminish or NABs become undetectable with time. Multiple Sclerosis (2004) 10, 126i/138