S.TRUEMAN PhD THESIS 2016

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without Professor Birks’ understanding, support and insight, it just wouldn’t have happened. The researcher, with sincerest of hearts, makes an unqualified and unconditional proclamation to his partner, Frieda Marfleet. A gargantuan thank you. The researcher openly acknowledges his gratitude for your support in so many ways. The researcher believes that a PhD candidate’s partner—certainly in his own case and in others he is aware of anecdotally—makes significant and substantial sacrifices and commitments; obviously, each in different ways and means. Frieda, I thank you for your sacrifice, support, and unwavering and not insignificant belief in me. The creation of this thesis is as much about me, as it is about us.