A membrane-electrode assembly for electrochemical cells such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells and direct methanol fuel cells operating at ambient conditions are activated first by exposing them at a temperature higher than ambient temperature and with the gaseous reactants back-pressurized. The modifier can provide improved low-temperature impact resistance of a polymer alloy including a polar group-containing polymer and an olefin polymer, and can provide a molded article with smooth surface when the polymer alloy is molded. Selection of a test entity from a set of test entities satisfying received parameters may utilize stochastic techniques. The trigger devices and the SCRs provide power-down-mode-compatible operation of the power lines, as well as ESD protection.