HNF-4 is a protein enriched in liver extracts that binds to sites required for the transcription of the transthyretin and apolipoprotein CIII genes. The annealing step includes simultaneously irradiating the non-single crystalline semiconductor thin film with a plurality of energy beams to form a plurality of unit regions each including at least one irradiated region irradiated with the energy beam and at least one non-irradiated region that is not irradiated with the energy beam. By keeping the photodiode under reverse bias even under conditions that may otherwise saturate the pixel, image lag is reduced. Other stored-value card assemblies and associated methods are also disclosed. The compositions are particularly suitable for sealing and obturating dental root canals and root apices. An adapter is mounted on the mask housing and includes a pair of suction conduit tubes for removal of air within the nasal housing.