Geology of the Venus equatorial region from Pioneer Venus radar imaging

The surface characteristics and morphology of the equatorial region of Venus were first described by Masursky et al. who showed this part of the planet to be characterized by two topographic provinces, rolling plains and highlands, and more recently by Schaber who described and interpreted tectonic zones in the highlands. Using Pioneer Venus (PV) radar image data (15 deg S to 45 deg N), Senske and Head examined the distribution, characteristics, and deposits of individual volcanic features in the equatorial region, and in addition classified major equatorial physiographic and tectonic units on the basis of morphology, topographic signature, and radar properties derived from the PV data. Included in this classification are: plains (undivided), inter-highland tectonic zones, tectonically segmented linear highlands, upland rises, tectonic junctions, dark halo plains, and upland plateaus. In addition to the physiographic units, features interpreted as coronae and volcanic mountains have also been mapped. The latter four of the physiographic units along with features interpreted to be coronae

Atla Regio, Venus: Geology and origin of a major equatorial volcanic rise

Regional volcanic rises form a major part of the highlands in the equatorial region of Venus. These broad domical uplands, 1000 to 3000 km across, contain centers of volcanism forming large edifices and are associated with extension and rifting. Two classes of rises are observed: (1) those that are dominated by tectonism, acting as major centers for converging rifts such as Beta Regio and Alta Regio, and are termed tectonic junctions; and (2) those forming uplands characterized primarily by large-scale volcanism forming edifices. Western Eistla Regio and Bell Regio, where zones of extension and rifting are less developed. Within this second class of features the edifices are typically found at the end of a single rift, or are associated with a linear belt of deformation. We examine the geologic characteristics of the tectonic junction at Alta Regio, concentrating on documenting the styles of volcanism and assessing mechanisms for the formation of regional topography

Optimization of N fertilization for hops (Humulus lupulus) in Iowa soils

Due to the increased production of local craft beers in the state of Iowa, interest in local hops has been piqued. In order to support the budding hop industry in the Midwest United States, regionally relevant empirical research is necessary, specifically regarding nitrogen (N) fertilizer recommendations. In order to refine fertilizer recommendations for the Midwest, a hop yard was established, and two experiments were conducted. The objective of the first experiment was to determine the optimal concentration of urea (U) to maximize yield and quality, defined as the percentage of α- and β-acids in the final dried cones. It was hypothesized that a specific amount of urea would be optimal to support biomass accumulation and maintain quality. To test this hypothesis seven concentrations of U were tested, starting at 0 lb N∙a–1 to 300 lb N∙a–1 in 50 lb N∙a–1 increments. Quality and yield were measured at the end of each growing season. As the concentration of urea increased yield also increased, but quality, specifically the percentage of α-acids declined. Based on experimental results, 150 lb N∙a–1 may be recommended in order to maintain quality and support biomass accumulation. The objective of the second experiment was to determine the optimal form of N fertilizer. It was hypothesized that a nitrate (NO3–) based fertilizer would promote biomass accumulation. To test the hypothesis, an experiment was conducted with five combinations of N fertilizer applied in split-application at a concentration of 150 lb N∙a–1. The combinations were made up of calcium nitrate (CN), urea ammonium nitrate (UAN), and U applied in the following combinations (first application-second application): CN-CN, CN-UAN, U-U, U-UAN, and UAN-UAN at 75 lb N∙a–1 per application. Nitrate-based fertilizers resulted in higher yields and may be recommended to support biomass production. Quality was unaffected by N form

Between design and digital: bridging the gaps in architectural education

Developing technologies, such as computational design and digital fabrication, are transforming the design and construction of contemporary architecture. Today, architecture schools are tasked with introducing digital technologies as they are changing, creating an opportunity to develop innovative curricula and democratize access to these skills. However, the understanding of how to teach digital technology as an essential design skill has not kept pace with these rapid changes. Design education and digital technology education continue to be seen as separate loci of learning, separated by pedagogical gaps and teaching mindsets