The delay between two signals is determined by obtaining zero crossings from each signal, and using each crossing to trigger the sampling of the other signal. The device also includes a gas delivery line comprising a manifold with a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with each other. The characteristics may reflect information about how much of a cost or inconvenience a user may incur by having to later replace the deleted file. Specialized inputoutput cassettes are used for transferring the samples through an inputoutput module into the system. wherein R111, R112, R121, R122, R131, R132, R141 and R142 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, an aliphatic group or an aromatic group; R103, R113, R123, R133 and R143 each independently represent a substituent; and n103, n113, n123, n133 and n143 each independently denote an integer from 0 to 4. The annuity contract has a payment base value, a contract value, and a lifetime benefit payment amount available for withdrawal without reduction in the payment base.