From the intrinsic self-promoting nature of a work like this, it may appear that I claim sole responsibility for the contents of this dissertation.
I would like to rectify this injustice and recognize the talented and supporting individuals involved in the creation of this work.
First, I acknowledge my dissertation advisor, Eric Abraham. 
This work is a result of Eric's judicious superposition of freedom for enquiry and careful guidance.
I am appreciative of the latitude that Eric provides, allowing me to formulate my own questions.
Of equal importance is Eric's uncanny ability to recognize when to intervene with advise or expertise. \\
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\indent I also acknowledge Alberto Marino, whose expertise in quantum optics aided and motivated many areas of study in this project.
Next, I thank Michael Morrison.
Although he entered retirement during my tenure at the University of Oklahoma, Michael maintained an active presence in our research group.
Michael's theoretical background was indispensable to me when I was developing the models for this work. \\
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\indent When I first joined Eric Abraham's laboratory, he was in the process of relaunching his atomic rubidium experiment.
I was very fortunate to have a fellow graduate student, Sean Krzyzewski, join the group shortly after me. 
Together, we built the entire apparatus from the optics table - up.
Sean's skill and diligent attitude challenged me to work toward my full potential.
I am grateful for our resident theorist, James Dizikes, for asking probing questions throughout my graduate career.
James is a wonderful fountain of theoretical knowledge, which I often tapped when building the models for this work. \\
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\indent I acknowledge my family: mother Connie, father Terry, brother Tim, brother Theo, grandfather Glenn, and grandmother June.
I literally could not have done this without first being conceived by my parents (but that was the easy part).
More importantly, I am grateful for the encouraging environment in which my parents raised me.
They have always valued education, and their principles formed the foundation of my character.
I would like to thank my grandparents for their perpetual support, and for serving as role models on how to live an enriched life. \\
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\indent Finally, I acknowledge Sara Barber (spouse) and Ginger Elanore Pooh (\textit{Canis lupis familiaris}).
Sara and I defended our dissertations within twenty-six hours of each other.
Sara's intimate understanding of the process involved in a work of this scale tailored her support with a precision that was essential for shortening the time constant characterizing my distress.
I have unabating gratitude that I had the opportunity to complete this experience with Sara.
Though Ginger does not have any cognitive understanding of this work, her unconditional comfort is a contributing factor to my positive attitude throughout this process.
