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I wish to express my deepest appreciation to my advisor, Dr. W. R. M. Graham, for his guidance and support in my research and education. Thanks to Dr. C. M. L. Rittby for his assistance with computer simulations and providing theoretical insight in this research. Thanks to M. Murdock, D. Yale, and G. Katchinska for their assistance in maintaining the laboratory equipment. Thanks to my family and friends who supported and encouraged me in my studies. Funding for this research and equipment by the Welch Foundation, the W. M. Keck Foundation, and the TCU Research and Creative Activities Fund is gratefully acknowledged. ii TABLE OF CONTENT