Add to ORKGii ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I would like to thank Dr. Ramírez for directing this thesis and for sharing a great deal of encouragement and constructive criticism. I would also like to thank Dr. Parker, Dr. Arbujas and Dr. Buckingham for contributing and agreeing to be part of the committee. Special thanks also go out to Dr. Hegarty whose enthusiasm and expertise has served as a great inspiration. I must also thank Claudia Ceja Pérez, my gatekeeper and fiancée, whose help with this project was immense. I also send a warm thanks to all of the participants who agreed to donat