First, I want to thank my supervisor Prof. Thambipillai Srikanthan for giving me the opportunity of undertaking a Ph.D. under his sage guidance. His vision and most insightful advice have shaped this endeavor into a fruitful culmination-from choosing the topic to developing ideas and identifying any missing pieces to thesis writing. The motivation and kind support that he has provided have enabled the smooth continuation of the Ph.D., especially around the birth of my second daughter. This thesis would not have completed without the phenomenal support provided by my mentor Dr. Vivek Chaturvedi through his excellent guidance and constant help. The many technical discussions and numerous writing revisions have contributed profoundly to my research. A special note of thanks goes to Dr. Muhammad Shafique, whose exceptional guidance into research writing and the brainstorming into the formulation of some critical ideas have been vital for this thesis. Also, I thank Dr. Amit K. Singh for the most timely and critical review of my work, and Dr. Lam Siew-Kei for introducing me to the research field. I am grateful to Rohith R., the intern who developed the simulator. I thank Mr. Jeremiah, the administrative staff member of HESL, for the swift technical support. This journey was enlivened by the joyful presence of my friends Yan, Serene, Surabhi, Indira, Bhavan, Akhila, and Nruthya. My senior, Dr. Kavitha, has been a never-exhausting source of motivation. My colleague Kalindu has always been a high helping hand and provided me with insights. With my colleagues Deshya and Thilina, I shared many light moments and also a deep understanding. Peilan was my empath who understood the struggles of student-mothers. Meiqing uplifted me with her sweet demeanor. Kratika always made me positive. Dr. Jagadeesh was ever available with great advice. The role my husband, Virender Singh, and my daughters Prisha and Mitali in this thesis cannot be entirely expressed in words. Their sacrifice and love I can xi xii never repay. The positivity, comfort, fun, smile, and laughter they bring always rejuvenated me after a hard day. My husband's encouraging words, care, and understanding, as well as the technical discussions with him, made this journey possible. I thank Prisha for her loving smile and kindness, and Mitali for the zeal and strength she imparted. Also, the unconditional support of my parents-in-law and their highly understanding and helpful nature is almost not heard of elsewhere. My helpers have been the support-system allowing me to juggle work and personal responsibilities. The foundation of values and courage laid by my parents has been fundamental. My mother, Mrs. Pushpa Rathore has encouraged me throughout the journey. My brother and sisters have given me comfort and a listening ear whenever needed. I would forever remain indebted to Daaji, global guide of Heartfulness meditation system, for what has been given spiritually, equipping me with lightness, serenity, and positivity. My trainer and friend, Sis. Sheenah Hamid, has contr...