This disclosure provides a way for securely protecting secret information\u2014for example, a secret key\u2014in a programmed electronic device. The present invention also provides an image-processing apparatus for presetting output layouts and merging images. A set of signal-state estimated values that includes phase and power parameters is generated during each synchronization process. Particularly contemplated are modules which include integral fuses and indicator lights. The system further comprises a favorite list data base comprising a list of favorite URLs collected by the favorite list collection module. The screening mechanisms may be used to measure the expression of the \u03b14\u03b22\u03b4 GABAA receptors, in order to identify members of the general population as having an increased sensitivity to lower concentrations alcohol coupled with a decrease sensitivity to higher concentrations of alcohol, a scenario frequently found in patients suffering from alcoholism and premenstrual anxiety.