Abstract

DEDICATION This thesis is dedicated to my father, who devoted his entire life to aiding my pursuit of knowledge and education. This thesis is also dedicated to my mother, who set a larger than life example of diligence and prudence. This thesis is also dedicated to my dear sister, without whose help none of this would have been possible. Finally, this thesis is dedicated to my beloved wife, who has always stood by me and given me unconditioned love and support. ii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Dr. Jignesh M. Patel has been the ideal thesis supervisor. His sage advice, insightful criticisms, out-of-the-box thinking, and patient encouragement aided the writing of this