for agreeing to be a part of my committee and for all the help and guidance they have provided. My utmost respect and appreciation goes to my major professor Dr Leszek Czarnecki, for whom I have high regards, both academic and personal. I feel privileged to work under his guidance and for all the support I have received from him and his wife Mrs Maria Czarnecka. I thank God for providing me with all the intellect, health and opportunities to this day. Above all, I would like to express my love

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... nd gratefulness towards my parents, Manju and Kalyan, to whom I owe everything. Thank you for providing me with wonderful opportunities, righteous values and everlasting support. I feel honored to have you as my parents.