Many long hours of study and research have placed me at this point in my career, though I would be remiss if I failed to acknowledge those who helped guide and encourage my progress. First, I would like to acknowledge my Major Professor, Dr. Michael Essington, who has been both my friend and mentor. My gratitude must also be extended to my committee members, Dr. Mark Radosevich and Dr. Amy Johnson, for their support. Special thanks must go to Galina Melnichenko, without whose kindness and knowledge I would be lost. Thank you, Galina, for always being willing to help me work a problem through to a solution. I must also acknowledge my family and friends, whose love and encouragement has always been my shelter: my mother Virginia Jean Journey, who never lets me quit; my grandparents Thomas and Jean Journey; my grandmother Imma Lorene Bentley; my aunt Aurora Anne Daniels; and my best friends Amanda Odessa Beckner and Jennifer Lauren Webster, who have been like sisters to me. Finally, my thanks go out to all of those friends not mentioned who have never failed to show me love and support. I could never have come this far without you.