Evaluating Ecohydrological Model Sensitivity to Input Variability with an Information-Theory-Based Approach.

Ecohydrological models vary in their sensitivity to forcing data and use available information to different extents. We focus on the impact of forcing precision on ecohydrological model behavior particularly by quantizing, or binning, time-series forcing variables. We use rate-distortion theory to quantize time-series forcing variables to different precisions.

Novel Biodegradable Zn Alloy with Exceptional Mechanical and In Vitro Corrosion Properties for Biomedical Applications.

A series of quaternary Zn-Al-Cu-Li alloys with different weight fractions of Cu, Al, and Li were developed and investigated for potential application in high load bearing bioresorbable implants. The developed alloys provided various fractions of binary and ternary intermetallic structures, which resulted in formation of multiphase microstructures containing a zinc-rich η-phase and LiZn and CuZn phases. The intermetallic phases promoted grain refinement and a good combination of mechanical properties.

Development of high strength and ductile Zn-Al-Li alloys for potential use in bioresorbable medical devices.

A series of Zn-Al-Li alloys with potential application in bioresorbable implants were cast, thermomechanically processed and tested. The formation of secondary phases, such as LiZn, LiZnAl and AlLi, contributed to both dynamic recrystallization and grain refinement of the matrix (η-phase) during the hot-extrusion process, leading to grain sizes as small as 1.75 μm for Zn-4Al-0.