A semiconductor device including a bipolar transistor having an emitter layer consisting of a semiconductor containing indium, and a protective insulating film containing silicon and oxygen which is formed on the surface of the guard ring of the emitter layer, wherein the protective insulating film has a density of oxygen of less than 71022 cm3. A numerically-controlled analog oscillator provides a clock output and has an input for receiving a rational number. Methods and compositions are presented for the preparation and use of novel therapeutic compositions for modulating diseases and conditions associated with elevated or decreased apoptosis.