Dr. Dennis Barnum, who all reviewed my dissertation draft, and made helpful comments during the defense. My fellow graduate students, Leslie Parr and Richard Rausch, provided support and sympathy throughout these last five years, as did my good friend, Lynn Larson, who also provided immeasurable assistance in securing supplies and employment. Thirdly, I want to dedicate this dissertation to my wife, Victoria, who was at my side during the entire time it took for this project to be finished. She never doubted that it would be a success; I could never have done it without her. Finally, I wish to remember my dog, Skoshi. a constant companion during most of this doctoral project, but who, sadly, did not live to see the final product.