Unless otherwise indicated in the text or references, or acknowledged above, this thesis is entirely the product of my own scholarly work. Any inaccuracies of fact or faults in reasoning are my own and accordingly I take full responsibility. This thesis has not been submitted, either in whole or part, for a degree at this or any other university or institution.

I hereby agree to indemnify and save harmless The University of Concordia from any and all
claims which may be asserted or which may arise from any copyright violation.