A system and method of encoding an audio stream includes generation of a distortion threshold templates database that is accessible by a perceptual audio encoder. The base portion includes one or more container wells each adapted to support a container. The ALUs of the data path are coupled using a left-going, or forward, carry chain for transmitting at least one carry bit from the LSB ALU to the MSB ALU. This stabilizes the step coverage of a subsequently formed transparent electrode. Preferably the cavity has an insert opening accessible from outside of said frame, such that the insert can be placed into and removed from the cavity. A sampling pathway including a probe or a nebulizer, in one example, may be simultaneously reconditioned and cleaned by mixing an isotopically enriched species andor natural abundant species with a cleaning solution, and then cleaning the sampling pathway with the spiked cleaning solution through various means and procedures.