Naegleria Fowleri Life Cycle

During two of its three life stages, the aquatic amoeba Naegleria fowleri can parasitize humans, causing a fatal, meningitis-like inflammation. The amoeba enters the body through nasal membranes and along olfactory (smell) nerves to the brain. Symptoms appear 3 to 10 days later. Diagnosis is made at autopsy. Water testing requires weeks to culture the amoeba, but routine water tests suggest that Naegleria fowleri is common in warm rivers and lakes. For the years 1998 to 2007, 33 infections were diagnosed in the United States.

Trophozoite

The trophozoite life stage is a slug-shaped amoeba, actively mobile with wide, rounded pseudopods. N. fowleri feeds during this stage and will consume brain tissue in a human host. Trophozoites can survive in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), as well as the brain and olfactory nerves. Trophozoite contains vacuoles (fluid filled sacs) in the cell plasm and has all of the sub-cellular organelles typical of eukaryotes (cells with a nucleus). Electron micrographs reveal cup-like extensions of the cell surface used for feeding on bacteria. As the cell moves, the posterior end is sticky and may have trailing filaments.

Reproduction

During the trophozoite stage, N. fowleri reproduces by asexual cell division. At all stages, this amoeba has a distinct cell nucleus, with a large dense nucleolus that contains genetic material. During nuclear division, the nuclear membrane remains intact while the nucleolus divides to form polar bodies for the daughter cells.

Flagellate

In fresh water between 80.6 to 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 37 degrees Centigrade) the trophozoite can grow two flagella within 1 to 20 hours. Flagella are a central filament with a cytoplasm coating. Agitation of growth medium and age of cell also affect enflagellation. Once complete, the flagella persist for as many as 24 hours, enabling the cell to swim. Swimming allows a wider dispersal of the organism in fresh water or cerebrospinal fluid. The flagellate stage does not feed. It has a large "contractile vacuole" (squeezing sac) that can eliminate liquid from the cell. In the laboratory, flagella disappear when the amoeba is placed into distilled water.

Cyst

The cyst (protected) stage of the N. fowleri life cycle is a time of reorganization. The shape of the organism becomes spherical and the cell wall thickens, but retains one or two minute pores. Inside the cell wall, the amoeba resembles a smaller version of the trophozoite stage, with a defined nucleus. Cysts form in water, soil and culture media, but not in human tissue. In dry conditions, cysts can survive for about 5 minutes, so that human infection from an airborne cyst is unlikely.

Exposure

Naeglaria fowleri can survive in any warm fresh water that is not chlorinated. It is not found in ocean water. Of the recorded deaths in the United States, one Arizona child was exposed in a hot tub and another was exposed in a swimming pool filled from a residential deep well. Similar pool exposures occurred in Australia. A Georgia child was exposed while playing in a small warm stream. N. fowleri has been found at hot springs, in sewage sludge, HVAC condensing units and in an Illinois lake thermally polluted from cooling waters of a nuclear power plant.

Tags: fresh water, cell wall, cerebrospinal fluid, child exposed, stage fowleri, trophozoite stage

Homemade Rat And Mice Spray Repellent

Keep rodents from your home with homemade spray repellents.

Mice and rat invasions are cumbersome and often pricey. They chew through materials and litter surfaces with bedding and droppings. Many find it inhumane to kill the rodents in traps, so they turn to alternative repellents. Homemade spray repellents are an ideal alternative to rodent traps. They work to repel the rodents through scent, without harming the animals. Does this Spark an idea?

Peppermint Oil Spray

Although peppermint oil smells clean and fresh to humans, mice and rats find it unappealing. Combine 1 cup water or rubbing alcohol with 2 tsp. peppermint oil in a spray bottle. Shake it until it is fully mixed. Spray the solution everywhere you have found evidence of the rodents. Spray cotton balls with the solution and set them in the locations as well. Spray again in one week. After two weeks, spray new cotton balls and replace the old ones.

Ammonia Spray

Rats and mice dislike the smell of ammonia because it smells like predator urine. Fill a spray bottle with 1 cup ammonia and 1 cup vinegar. Mix well and spray all areas the rodents frequent. Spray cotton balls with the solution and set them in the areas as well. Replace the cotton balls after two weeks. Monitor the areas to make certain the rodents are not returning. If so, spray the locations again.

Mothball Spray

Mothballs do not only repel moths, but also mice and rats. The odor deters them and keeps them away. Put 1/8 cup mothballs in a plastic sack and crush them with a hammer. Pour the crushed mothballs into a spray bottle and fill it with water. Mix in 1 tsp. dish detergent. Locate all areas the rodents have traveled and spray them with the solution. The scent will keep the rodents form returning. If you notice new rodent activity, spray the locations again.

Wintergreen Oil Spray

Like peppermint oil, rodents are repelled by the smell of wintergreen oil. Mix together 1 cup water or rubbing alcohol and 2 tsp. wintergreen oil in a spray bottle. Mix it well. Spray all areas the rodents have visited. Locate entrance holes and spray them as well. Spray cotton balls with the solution and set them in visited areas. Replace the cotton balls after two weeks.

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Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control Instructions

Cockroaches are a common household pest.

Pest control is essential for any home and, as any homeowner can tell you, it is often an uphill battle. When basic precautions are not enough, it may be time to consider a commercial insecticide. The Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control product line is designed for the homeowner who wants to control pests without the costly expense of an extermination service. With the right technique and application, you can use the Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control products in your home. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Outdoors

1. Spray the exterior of your home in any voids and holes in wood damaged by beetles or termites, and in spaces between wooden structures and the foundation where the wood is exposed.

2. Spray directly onto exposed workers and winged forms of the termites.

3. Spray directly into any swarm of termites or any area in which they collect.

4. Apply the Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control around doors and windows where ants can enter the home.

5. Spray cracks and crevices of the exterior of the home where ants or their nests are present. Cover the area with a heavy layer of spray.

6. Spray any entry holes where carpenter bees may be entering the home. Allow the spray to sit for at least 24 hours before sealing any holes. This will allow time for the bees to pass through the entry holes and come into contact with the spray.

Indoors

7. Remove any pets or children from the area before spraying indoor spaces.

8. Spray around baseboards, into cracks and other places where insects hide. Look for damp areas such as under sinks, cabinets, refrigerators, and so on. Spray until all surfaces are wet.

9. Spray Bayer Advanced Home Pest Control directly onto target insects, if possible. Allow the spray to dry completely before allowing any children or pets to enter the area.

Tags: Advanced Home, Advanced Home Pest, Bayer Advanced, Bayer Advanced Home, Home Pest, Home Pest Control

Smoke Damage Remedy

Whether you are a smoker or you had a kitchen accident, smoke damage happens. But there are a number of remedies you can use to rid your home of smoke damage. Does this Spark an idea?

Fire Restorers

The least work-intensive way to clean up after smoke damage has occurred in your home, specifically from a serious fire, is to contact a fire restorer, a professional whose job it is to assess and clean-up smoke damage. You can find a fire restorer by either getting a referral from your insurance agency or by looking on the Internet or in the phone book under "Fire Damage Restoration." A fire restorer will use professional-grade equipment and cleaners to cleanse and deodorize your upholstery, carpet, appliances and walls. The biggest drawback of using a fire restorer is that they can be expensive.

Counteractants

Counteractants are powerful chemicals that can break up smoke molecules to eliminate odor. There are a variety of counteractants available, and which one you employ will depend on what exactly caused the smoke damage. They can be used for things like furniture, draperies and carpets. Counteractants are much more effective than normal, household deodorizing sprays, as these merely mask the smell or only work temporarily. However, counteractants 9-D-9 is one of the most commonly used counteractants and is best used for fires that spring from wood or synthetic material origins.

Thermal Fogging

Another method best deployed by professionals, thermal fogging is used to clear homes of smoke odor after serious fires have occurred. The process works through the use of a warm chemical fog that travels through the home, soaking into fixtures and walls. This neutralizes the smoke odor.

Vinegar Or Ammonia

For cigarette smoke, one of the most effective remedies is to leave out a bowl of white vinegar or ammonia overnight. These chemicals will help absorb the smoke scent from the air.

Tags: smoke damage, fire restorer, smoke odor, your home

All Natural Houseplant Insect Repellent

Aphids, or plant lice, are a common pest that can feed on almost all types of houseplants.

Houseplants are just as susceptible to insect pests as outdoor plants. Some of these pests can cause significant damage. Chemical insecticides can eliminate many insects, but aren't always safe for your family. There are natural alternatives that are effective against many indoor insects, as well as safe for both your plants and your family. Does this Spark an idea?

Alcohol Spray

Alcohol spray can be effective against aphids, whiteflies, and scaly insects. It is typically most successful on plants with heavy, waxy leaves that aren't easily burned. Mix a cup of rubbing alcohol to 4 cups water in a spray bottle. Test a small area first. If the test spot shows no ill effects from the spray after a couple of days, treat the entire plant to kill off the pests.

Nightshade Plants

The nightshade family of plants, specifically tomato and tobacco plants, contain alkaloids, which are toxic for many plant pests. Tomato leaf sprays can help eliminate aphids and nicotine sprays can be effective against most soil pests such as aphids, fungus gnats, and some leaf-eating insects. Make a tomato leaf spray by mixing a cup of chopped tomato leaves with 2 cups of water and leave it to soak overnight. Strain and add 2 cups of water to dilute the liquid. Spray the leaves of your plant on both sides. To make a tobacco leaf spray, soak a cup of dried tobacco leaves, or cigarette butts, in a gallon of warm water. Add 2 to 3 drops of liquid soap and leave it to soak for 30 minutes. Strain and spray on the soil near the stem and root area and on both sides of the leaves. Nicotine may be absorbed by plants and can stay inside the plant for several weeks so it's best to avoid spraying on food plants with nicotine. Reapply as needed, never more than once each week.

Garlic Oil

Garlic oil is an effective repellent against many insect pests and for some, like aphids, earwigs and whiteflies, it's also toxic. To make your own garlic insecticide, soak 6 tbsp. minced garlic in 2 tsp. mineral oil for 24 hours. Add 2 cups of water and 2 to 3 drops of liquid soap. Stir the mixture and strain. When you're ready to use, dilute 2 tbsp. of the mixture with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle and apply to your plant sparingly. Do a test spray before treating the entire plant and watch for leaf damage. If the leaves appear unaffected after a couple of days, then apply to the entire plant.

Herbs

When made into teas, herbs such as sage, thyme, rosemary, catnip, chives, feverfew, marigolds and white clover may kill leaf-eating pests such as aphids. Test different herbs before you find one that is effective against your particular plant pest. Make your own herbal spray by mashing together 1 to 2 cups of fresh leaves with 2 to 4 cups of water. Leave them to soak overnight. Strain the mixture through a piece of cheesecloth, add 1/4 tsp. liquid soap and dilute further with another 2 to 4 cups of water before spraying on your plants. Cover the tops and bottoms of the leaves and repeat as needed, typically in weekly intervals.

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Get Rid Of Heart Worms

Get Rid of Heart Worms

While dogs are known for their ability to protect and love, their "big hearts" are also the ideal place for heart worms. All it takes is a bite from an infected mosquito for the heart worm larvae to enter the bloodstream and wiggle their way into a dog's heart. Once there, the larvae mature into adult worms that lodge themselves in a dog's heart and lungs, growing as long as 12 inches, mating and releasing offspring into the blood.

Instructions

Steps To Getting Rid Of Heart Worms

1. Get a physical examination from a veterinary doctor if you suspect heart worms. Some visible symptoms, according to the American Heartworm Society include, coughing, abnormal lung sounds and abnormal lung sounds. If you notice your dog is not as physical as before, appears dizzy or has troubles breathing, a veterinarian can do a blood test and physical exam to assess and treat your dog's condition.

2. Use mosquito-repelling products outdoors and vet-approved products directly on your dog to discourage mosquito bites. An insect repellent that is safe for animals and effective can be found in pet-friendly stores, like PetCo.

3. Prevent this situation from happening (or repeating), as recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association, by giving your dog a heartworm preventative medication. There are several FDA-approved formulations on the market that your dog's veterinarian can recommend. Preventatives do not kill existing heart worms, so a blood test is recommended before starting preventatives.

4. Medicate your dog with the heart worm medication your veterinarian recommends. There are two general categories of medicines to get rid of heart worms: adulticide for the adult worms and microfilaricide for the larvae, according to the American Heartworm Society.

5. Check for post-adulticide complications like severe pulmonary thromboembolism by observing your dog for fever, cough and hemoptysis (blood in the sputum). Another complication following adulticide treatment may be infection from the dead worms in the lungs and blood. In case of an infection, the American Heartworm Society recommends medicating your dog with veterinarian-approved anti-inflammatory corticosteroids.

Tags: American Heartworm, American Heartworm Society, Heartworm Society, abnormal lung, abnormal lung sounds, according American, according American Heartworm

About Dengue Fever Blood Tests

Dengue fever is a disease common to tropical areas, including popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. The virus that produces dengue is easily contracted and produces a short bout with fever and illness that can be so severe as to be potentially lethal. While there is no vaccine for Dengue Fever, there is a blood test to accurately diagnose it.

Geography

Dengue fever is found in tropical countries such as Bangladesh, Brazil, Cambodia, Guyana, Indonesia, India, Laos, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, Venezuela and Vietnam. It is found in places where malaria is also common but, unlike malaria, can be found just as often in urban as in rural areas.

Identification

Dengue Fever is initially identified by its symptoms: severe headaches, muscle pains (the joint pains associated with dengue have given it the nickname "breakbone" fever), red skin rashes and high fever. Abdominal problems can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mild cases are frequently misdiagnosed as influenza. Confirmation can be achieved by a blood test, which accurately identifies the Dengue Fever virus. This kind of blood test can be done at any modern general practice clinic. A 2008 breakthrough has produced a testing kit that can identify Dengue within 15 minutes at an 80 percent success rate ("Wired" magazine).

Features

Dengue is caused by a virus that is transmitted most often by the day-feeding mosquito breed Aedes aegypti. This mosquito also transmits yellow fever.

Time Frame

The typical bout with dengue lasts for a week, being punctuated by a spike in fever toward the end.

Considerations

Severe bouts with Dengue Fever require continued blood testing, due to the substantial drop in platelets that occurs in cases of the Fever that last more than 5 days. Daily blood testing to monitor platelet count may be ordered for any case of Dengue, but should be expected starting on the fifth day of a case of Dengue Fever. This testing is different from a test to identify the virus, but instead is to monitor a potentially dangerous change in blood condition. As platelet testing is a routine blood work task, this testing is performed widely, efficiently, and the results can be known quickly.

Prevention/Solution

There is no vaccine available for Dengue Fever. The only preventative measures revolve around mosquito control. On a health policy level, education about mosquito breeding and insecticide use are common dengue prevention measures. On a personal level, the use of insect repellent and mosquito netting, to prevent bites and therefore transmission, are also effective in reducing the odds of infection.

Tags: Dengue Fever, blood test, blood testing, bout with, case Dengue, Dengue Fever, virus that

Child Developmental Stages & Ages

Children often imitate adult behaviors as part of their early development.

Children develop at different rates. Some walk before their peers, and others read more quickly than their classmates. But the stages of development in nearly all children remain relatively consistent within a range of years. Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget is credited with defining the road map for understanding the cognitive stages of development in children.

Ages 0-2: Sensory Motor

Piaget's first stage of development takes place from birth to age 2. This is the period in which your child will develop various sensory motor skills that range from gross-motor skills to fine-motor skills. Within this period of development, several other sub-stages also help define the basic development of the child. During the first two months, for instance, children react reflexively, using basic instinctual movements like sucking. By the third month or so, children will begin to lift their heads, follow objects with their eyes, respond to external stimuli like a rattle, begin to smile and recognize the comforting touch of the parent. Beyond the eighth month, children will begin to make more intentional movements and efforts such as reaching for objects, crawling and walking.

Ages 2-7: Preoperational

Ages 2 to 7 represent the stage Piaget recognized as the preoperational period. These are the preschool years and the first year or two of primary education. Here, children begin to develop more complex ways of thinking. Increased vocabulary and language use result in the development of a more complex form of communication. The Child Development Institute notes language during this period is primarily egocentric. This happens from ages 2 to 4. From agse 4 to 7, children develop less egocentric communication skills. Children tend to have an intuitive understanding of logic while retaining belief in that which is magical.

Ages 7-12: Concrete Operational

Ages 7 to 12 represent the period that Piaget referred to as the concrete operational period. This is the period in a child's development where he moves beyond magical belief and develops more formalized logical thinking. No longer impeded by her developmental abilities, she can multitask much better than children in the preschool and early school phases who tend to focus on one task at a time. Children begin to read and write during the early part of this phase and develop these skills more fully by the time they reach age 12. Children tend to become more reflective in their mental development and may begin to develop their own sense of morality, based on experience.

Ages 12 and Beyond: Adolescence

During the child's final stage of development, from age 12 onward, abstract thought becomes more common. This period of formal operations, according to Piaget, is the period in which thought can move beyond concrete reality to conditional and hypothetical thought. Children can begin to understand more complex systems of thought and mathematical concepts like those found in algebra and geometry. Virginia Tech University's website points out that the child's brain is still developing, even at this late stage. Physically, children develop much more rapidly in weight and height; they also begin to develop secondary sex characteristics such as facial hair and voice changes in boys.

Tags: begin develop, more complex, Ages represent, Children begin, Children tend

Build A Pontoon Crane

Cranes of all sorts help construction workers perform tasks that they could never complete by themselves. The pontoon crane, a crane that is supported on pontoons, floats on water. Building a model of a pontoon crane is a craft that helps young minds understand the mechanics of large machinery and encourages their imaginations to understand perform feats of engineering.

Instructions

Making the Pontoon

1. Lay the 8-by-10-by-1/2-inch plywood on a flat work surface with the 8-inch width facing you.

Start at the near right corner and measure ½ inch to the left along the 8-inch side and mark with the pencil. Measure up 1 inch from this mark along the 10-inch length and mark. Insert an eye screw.

2. Measure up 3 inches from the eye screw, parallel to the 10-inch side. Insert an eye screw.

3. Repeat for the other corners of the 8-by-10-by-1/2-inch plywood.

4. Find the center of the board and mark.

5. Insert eye screws along the center-line between the points where you placed eye screws around the border.

6. Place a juice can on the board between the eye screws on the near right side. Turn the long side of the juice can parallel to the 10-inch side of the board.

7. Insert the end of the nylon thread through the eye screw at the bottom right corner. Loop the thread over the top of the can and through the eye screw that is perpendicular to this first eye screw; this is the bottom middle eye screw. Cut the thread, allowing enough length to tie the thread to the eye screw. Repeat to secure the other cans to the eye screws in the same manner to make the pontoon.

8. Turn over the pontoon.

9. Lay three of the 4-inch squares of wood on top of each other on a flat work surface. Match up the sides. Find the middle and mark. Set these on the plastic lid. Drill through the pieces.

10. Lay the 2-by-2-by-¼-inch wood on a flat surface. Find the middle and drill out the center.

11. Turn on the hot glue gun. Glue a 1-inch dowel to one corner of the 2-by-2-by-¼-inch wood to make a handle.

12. Set three 4-by-4-by-¼-inch pieces of wood on end to form a three-sided standing box. Two of these are the pieces with the holes; set these parallel to each other. Glue the three pieces together along the edges that touch to make the crane housing.

13. Insert the 6-inch wooden dowel through the wooden sides with the holes. Press the 2-by-2-by-¼-inch wood onto one end of the wooden dowel. Hot glue the dowel to the 2-by-2-by-¼-inch wood.

14. Drill a ¼-inch hole in the center top of the pontoon. Insert a 1-inch dowel and glue in place.

Making the Crane

15. Slide the plastic lid down over the dowel. Hot glue the top of the lid; then slide a 4-by-4-by ¼-inch piece of wood down over the dowel, which makes a lazy Susan on which the crane housing will pivot.

16. Hot glue the bottom edge of the crane housing and set on the lazy Susan with the sides aligned.

17.Lay the 2-by-6-by-1/2-inch piece of wood on a flat surface with the 2-inch width facing you. Cut a 45-degree corner from the near right corner using the miter box to form the bottom of the crane boom.

18. Measure up 1 inch on the edge opposite the 45-degree angle and insert an eye screw.

19. Lay the 2-by 6-by-1/2-inch piece of wood with the 45-degree corner on the 2-inch width facing away from you. Cut an 1/8-inch notch on the ½-inch edge that is on the opposite side of the 45-degree cut corner.

20. Find the center and measure up 1 inch from the end of the 2-by-6-by-1/2-inch piece of wood with the 45-degree corner on the 2-inch-wide side. Drill through.

21. Select two 2-by-2-inch pieces of modeling clay. Shape each into a mound. Set these in front of the open edge of the crane housing on the lazy Susan. Place the boom between them, with the 45-degree cut end down and facing away from the crane housing. The mounds act as side supports for the boom.

22. Push the 4-inch wooden dowel through one clay mound, through the hole in the crane boom and through the other clay mound. Remove the dowel and allow the clay to set.

23. Assemble the boom. Hold the boom between the two clay mounds with the 45-degree angle facing away from the crane housing. Place the 4-inch dowel through the first clay mound, through the hole in the crane boom and then through the other clay mound.

24. Thread the nylon thread through the eye screw on the crane boom. Hot glue an end of nylon thread onto the center of the dowel inside the crane housing. Cut off the end hanging from the top of the boom, allowing enough thread to tie on the magnet. Tie the magnet to the thread.

Tags: crane housing, 2-by-2-by- -inch, 2-by-2-by- -inch wood, 45-degree corner, clay mound, crane boom, -inch wood

Make Your Own Insect Fogging Liquid

To control insects on a property, many homeowners hire an insecticide spray service or purchase insecticide foggers for their personal use. Fogging for insects kills all undesirable pests in the treated area by releasing tiny particles of diluted insecticide that float in the air and kill insects that come into contact with the spray. Since fogging for insects leaves the possibility that pests may return to the affected area within a few days, it saves money to make your own insect fogging liquid. There are several different fogger spray recipes to choose from. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Soap Spray

1. Mix together 2 tbsp. of biodegradable liquid dish soap and 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket.

2. Fill the canister of your fogger with the liquid in order to apply the spray and store the rest of the insecticide liquid for later use.

3. Test a small portion of the spray on your plants if you intend to spray your garden for pests. Excessive use of insecticide spray in a short period of time may induce a foliage-burning phenomenon known as phytotoxicity, so testing a small area first avoids harming a whole garden.

Lemon Spray

4. Place the cooking pot over a stovetop burner and pour in 1 qt. of water.

5. Peel the rinds of two large or four small lemons and toss the lemon peels into the water in the pot.

6. Bring the lemon peels and the water to a boil and boil the mixture for 10 minutes. Allow the mixture time to completely cool.

7. Pour the cooled mixture through a strainer or open weave cheesecloth into a bottle to remove the lemon peels and replace the lid or cap on the bottle to store the spray.

Great Fleabane Spray

8. Measure out 1 cup of leaves or roots from the great fleabane plant (Inula conyza) and place the leaves in a cooking pot with a lid. Any heat-resistant container large enough for 5 cups or more of substance will easily substitute for the cooking pot as long as the container has a lid.

9. Put another cooking pot on a stove burner and pour in 4 cups of water, bringing the water to a boil.

10. Turn off the heat and pour the hot water over the fleabane in the other pot. Put a lid over the plant and water and wait 10 minutes for the ingredients to steep.

11. Strain the mixture back into the water's cooking pot and wait for it to completely cool.

12. Add 1/4 tsp. of castile or other pure soap into the mixture and use as a spray. Store the spray in a lidded container.

Tags: lemon peels, burner pour, completely cool, insecticide spray, into water, pour water, spray your

What Is A 555 Timer Used For

The 555 timer is one of the most popular integrated circuits of all time

One of the most popular integrated circuits (ICs) of all time, the 555 timer was introduced in the 1970s and is still made by the billions today. It's easy to use, inexpensive and suited to a wide range of applications.

Description

The 555 timer IC is an 8-pin electronic pulse generator. Its general-purpose design lets you configure it for different modes of operation, such as astable (free-running oscillator) or monostable (one-shot). It has a frequency range of less than one pulse per minute up to about 500 kilohertz.

Clock

Many digital circuits need a centralized pulse source, called a clock, to synchronize signals and events. The 555 IC's astable mode produces a steady pulse waveform suitable for clocking digital circuits.

Tone Source

The same astable mode that generates pulses can be used in the audio range to create tones in a speaker. You can use a 555 as a beeper, buzzer or siren.

One-Shot

The 555 can be configured in monostable, or one-shot, mode. When it receives a trigger pulse, it produces a single, precisely timed pulse of its own. You can, for example, use this to open an automatic door for ten seconds, then close it.

Light Flasher

You can use a 555 to directly drive a light-emitting diode (LED). Running as a pulse generator, it will flash the LED at any speed you wish. Several 555s flashing LEDs can create a colorful, twinkling display.

Tags: astable mode, circuits time, digital circuits, integrated circuits, integrated circuits time, monostable one-shot, most popular

Birch Tree Insects

The native Betula papyrifera is more resistant to birch borers than other types of birches.

Birch (Betula species) are desirable for their distinctive white or mottled bark and their small, graceful leaves. These moisture-loving trees can often be found growing on the banks of rivers or near other bodies of water. Like all plants, birch trees can suffer from insect problems, and some of the insect pests can be life-threatening. Keeping a birch tree well-watered can strengthen it against insect attacks, according to the University of Saskatchewan Extension Division. Does this Spark an idea?

Deadly Insects

The bronze birch borer (Agrilus anxius) is the deadliest of the insect pests that infest birch trees, according to the University of Wisconsin Extension. These insects commonly attack old or sick trees, which is why proper culture is so important for keeping your birch tree healthy. It is the larvae of this boring insect that causes the most damage. The larvae feed on sapwood, girdling the branches and even the trunks of some trees, and cutting off the flow of nutrients to the rest of the tree. Birch trees usually die from the crown downward.

Disfiguring Insects

The birch leafminer (Fenusa pusilla) can severely disfigure a birch tree due to the large amount of larvae this insect can lay in one growing season. In fact, there are four life cycles of the bug from spring to fall. The adult leafminers lay eggs on the tops of birch leaves. The first set of larvae begins to feed in May. As they eat, black spots appear on the leaves, and they will drop to the ground. Just as new leaves start developing, which happens in many cases, they will be devoured by the second set of larvae, and so the cycle continues, with the birch valiantly trying to put forth leaves and failing each time. Although the tree lives, the canopy will be sparsely populated with brown, spotted leaves.

Minor Insects

Many common insects attack birch trees. Paper wasps peel off the thin, delicate bark of the tree, causing twig dieback to occasionally occur. Aphids and other sucking insects can damage the leaves, but they do not cause life-threatening injuries to the tree, nor are the effects usually very noticeable---although a heavy infestation may cause some of the leaves to drop prematurely from the tree. Look for these and other insects, such as scale, to cluster under the leaves and in the forks of twigs and branches.

Control

While there is no way to cure a tree infested by birch borers or leafminers, if only a small section of the tree appears to be infested, try pruning off the affected branches and then covering the tree with an insecticide. Prevent these and minor insects from gaining a foothold on your birch by keeping it healthy and spraying it with insecticide in the spring and any time insect activity is noticeable.

Prevention/Solution

The best way to prevent insect pests from harming your birch tree is by keeping it as healthy as possible and observing the tree closely for any signs of insects. Proper watering is a must. Birch trees thrive in cool, moist soils but also like a full day's worth of sun exposure. These trees are best grown in climates with cool winters and mild summers and need plenty of room to stretch out their extensive root systems.

Tags: birch tree, insect pests, your birch, your birch tree, according University

Make Some Incense Sticks

Make homemade incense sticks.

Incense is composed of aromatic biotic materials that release fragrant smoke when burned. It comes in various forms. Incense has been used since Biblical times and comes in a wide variety of scents. Incense sticks are beautiful to keep in the house or to use as gifts wrapped in homemade boxes. Stored in tightly covered plastic containers, incense can last for decades. One trip to a candle making or herbal store will help you collect all the ingredients you need to make incense sticks.

Instructions

1. Mix one part fragrance oil to three parts DPG in a glass or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic container. Stir the mixture thoroughly. Continue to mix the DPG and fragrance for about 10 minutes.

2. Add the sticks into the mixture and allow to soak in the mixture overnight. This mixture can make many sticks of incense so put in as many sticks as you can.

3. Lay the disposable towels under the drying rack or screen. Make sure that the drying rack is in an area where it will not be disturbed and the whole area is well-ventilated.

4. Take out the soaked sticks using the tongs and lay them on the drying rack or screen. Make sure the sticks are not touching each other or overlapping. Let the sticks dry for at least 48 hours. Wet or damp incense will not burn. You can use an electric fan to help dry the sticks faster, but do not use heat.

5. Feel the sticks to make sure that they are dry. You can burn one stick as a test to be sure. Feel each stick and make sure that they are not wet before you store them. Make sure each stick does not have any damp or wet spots. Properly dried incense should burn up to 45 minutes. Store the incense sticks in tightly sealed containers to preserve the fragrance.

Tags: drying rack, incense sticks, Make sure, sure that, drying rack screen

Keep Mosquitoes Out Of Rain Barrels

If you don't take action, mosquitoes will use your rain barrel as a breeding area.

Rain barrels are used to collect rainwater from rooftops, which can be used for watering gardens, washing cars or flushing toilets. This method of harvesting rainwater cuts down the cost of water usage in the household and conserves water. However, rain barrels with standing water can also become rich breeding grounds for mosquitoes. There are ways you can keep mosquitoes out of rain barrels and help reduce mosquito breeding sites. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Empty rain barrels every four to six days. Female mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. It only takes seven to 14 days for the egg to emerge into an adult mosquito.

2. Add mosquito-eating fish into the rain barrels. Minnows or goldfish, for example, are known to eat mosquito larvae. Provide adequate ventilation for the fish inside the barrel, or they'll die.

3. Use small portions of mosquito dunks. Buy the product from most garden supply stores. Mosquito dunks are bacterial larvicide that kill mosquito larvae. These dunks slowly release an active ingredient, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), that kills mosquitoes for 30 days or more. They are safe for your plants and don't harm pets or people.

4. Cover the rain barrel with fine screening. Screens keep mosquitoes out and prevent them from laying eggs into the water. Secure plastic mesh window screening over your rain barrel's openings. Add cheesecloth on top of the screen as an additional filter.

5. Have an overflow hole on the rain barrel to keep the water level below the screen. Mosquitoes can breed in the water between the screen and the top of the water surface if the rain barrel is full to the top.

Tags: rain barrel, rain barrels, your rain barrel, keep mosquitoes, mosquito larvae

Canine Encephalitis Symptoms

Depression can be a sign of encephalitis in dogs.

According to the North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, encephalitis refers to the inflammation of the the brain. In cases where the encephalitis is caused by parasites, fungi, viruses or bacteria, it is known as infectious encephalitis. In cases where the cause is unknown, it is referred to as idiopathic encephalitis. Learning the symptoms of canine encephalitis can lead to quick treatment and recovery.

Seizures

Seizures are evidenced by a violent shaking or twitching of the dog's limbs, and they can last for a few seconds or for several minutes. The dog may fall over and start to paddle its feet in the air. Seizures are associated with encephalitis in the forebrain.

Behavior Changes

A friendly dog might suddenly turn moody or aggressive, and a formerly quiet dog might become outgoing and overly energetic. A behavior change should always be given attention and it should be considered along with other symptoms.

Poor Balance

Poor balance may manifest itself as falling down or a lack of coordination. A dog may lose its ability to run or walk smoothly, and navigating the house or yard may become difficult for it. Poor balance is a sign of issues regarding the brainstem.

Facial Paralysis

One side of the dog's face may suddenly go slack. If the mouth is affected, the dog may begin to salivate uncontrollably. Facial paralysis can indicate that the encephalitis has affected the brainstem. It might also be combined with a head tilt, where the dog will tilt its head to one side or the other.

Depression

A dog who is dealing with the pain and disorientation caused by encephalitis may express depression. It might be uninterested in food, or it might be unenthusiastic when it comes to playing. While depression can be a marker for many issues, it can, in conjunction with other symptoms, be a sign of canine encephalitis.

Tags: cases where, other symptoms, Poor balance, with other, with other symptoms

Homemade Organic Pesticide For Vegetables

Rhubarb leaves can be used to make a homemade organic pesticide for your vegetable garden.

Having a vegetable garden often means dealing with garden pests that appear and feed on the leaves and stems of plants. Gardeners have a variety of products available to combat these pests, but some of these contain chemicals that are toxic to wildlife and the environment. You may prefer organic products that do not have these detrimental effects. Some of these homemade organic pesticides can be made with ingredients you may already have at home. Gardeners can choose from many recipes for homemade organic pesticides. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Garlic Pesticide

1. Puree 15 garlic cloves and 1 pint of water in a food processor or blender.

2. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean spray bottle.

3. Spray the tops and undersides of all leaves.

4. Repeat every few days until the pests are gone.

Rubbing Alcohol Pesticide

5. Mix ½ cup rubbing alcohol with 1 quart of liquid soap directly into a spray bottle.

6. Spray on vegetable plant leaves. Allow to sit for 20 minutes.

7. Spray plants with clear water to minimize foliage damage.

8. Spray every three days for two weeks.

Orange Peel Pesticide

9. Pour boiling water over orange peels.

10. Allow it to steep for 24 hours.

11. Remove the peels and strain the mixture.

12. Mix in a few drops of castile soap.

13. Spray on plants as needed.

Horseradish Pesticide

14. Boil 2 quarts of water.

15. Add 2 cups of cayenne peppers and a 1-inch piece of horseradish root.

16. Allow mixture to steep for one hour. Let cool.

17.Strain mixture. Pour into spray bottle.

18. Spray on plants to eliminate aphids, beetles, caterpillars and whiteflies.

Rhubarb Pesticide

19. Boil 1 lb. of rhubarb leaves in a few pints of water for 20 minutes. Allow it to cool.

20. Strain into a container.

21. Add a small amount of dish detergent to allow the mixture to adhere to vegetable plants.

22. Spray on plants to kill aphids and spider mites.

Tomato Leaf Pesticide

23. Soak 2 cups of tomato leaves in water overnight.

24. Strain the mixture and add 1 pint of fresh water and ½ tsp. of liquid soap.

25. Spray foliage and soil to control asparagus beetles, flea beetles and earworms.

Tags: Spray plants, bottle Spray, homemade organic, spray bottle, spray bottle Spray, cool Strain, homemade organic pesticides

Mosquito Proof A Yard

Get these little guys out of your yard

No one likes mosquito bites, but mosquitoes are almost impossible to get rid of. If you've tried bug sprays, citronella candles and torches and still find yourself being bitten in your own backyard, it's time to take action. Follow these steps and you will drastically decrease the number of mosquitos in your yard. Here's have a bite-free summer. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Look for sources of water in your yard. Mosquitoes love still, standing water. If you have empty flowerpots, bird baths, a baby pool, puddles or any other area with standing water, it could be a breeding ground for mosquitos. Drain birdbaths at least once a week and empty any other sources of water regularly.

2. If you have a source of standing water in your backyard, like a pond, treat the water with Bacillus Thuringiensis liquid. Bacillus Thuringiensis is a bacteria that kills mosquito larvae, but will not do harm to animals or humans. You can purchase Bacillus Thuringiensis in your local garden store.

3. If there are any ditches on your property, fill them with sand. This way, there are no cold, dark and damp places for mosquitoes to hide and populate.

4. Put a birdhouse in your yard. Many birds eat mosquitoes, so it would be in your best interest to put a birdhouse in your yard. If you draw the bird population into your area, it will keep the mosquito population out.

5. Plant flowers. Flowers in your yard will attract dragonflies and birds, both of which are mosquito predators. Not only will your yard look and smell beautiful, you'll have the most mosquito-free yard on the block.

Tags: your yard, Bacillus Thuringiensis, standing water, birdhouse your, birdhouse your yard, sources water

Duct Tape Art

Turn extra duct tape into artwork.

Duct tape is no longer just a sturdy, convenient replacement for glue. Manufacturers and enterprising hobbyists turned duct tape into a full-fledged art medium, complete with a wide array of colors and designs. Today, teens and young adults sport everything from duct tape wallets and bags to belts, hats, pants and jewelry. Lovers on a budget can make duct tape rose bouquets and crafty girls with lots of time can make duct tape prom dresses.

No matter what you're making, duct tape art follows the same basic rules. By following these rules, you can make virtually anything from this sturdy material.

Instructions

1. Decide what you want to make from duct tape. This may be anything from a simple belt to a suit jacket. Novices should begin with things like wallets and neck ties; experts may move on to clothing and purses.

2. Think about your project. Plan what you want it to look like when finished, whether it needs pockets and what shapes you'll need to mold from duct tape. Every project needs a foundation, so consider what your foundation will look like.

3. Tear off a piece of duct tape to start your foundation. Lay it sticky side up on your work surface. Add more duct tape strips to it, overlapping the edges a bit, until you have a sticky sheet. This serves as the basis for many projects.

4. Cover the sticky sheet with more strips of duct tape placed sticky side down. This gives you a non-sticky piece with which to work. Create all the pieces of your project this way. Create smaller sheets for pockets and large sheets for pieces of clothing.

5. Snip and shape your pieces as necessary. You may use a clothing pattern to make jackets and dresses. You may also simply need to remove ragged edges.

6. Butt the edges of each of your pieces together and apply long pieces of tape over the seams to connect them. Picture butting the pieces together as "pinning" them in sewing and applying tape to the seams as "stitching" them together. Keep the tape smooth and free of ripples. Use several pieces of overlapping tape to reinforce seams. All clothing items and most accessories, like bags and wallets, should come together this way.

7. Piece together small, three-dimensional items one section at a time. Many of these projects, like roses and other flowers, don't fit together like clothing does. For roses, the the petals wrap around and stick to a central stem. There are no seams for flowers, just the base of the flower that you wrap with tape to keep it together.

8. Fold pieces of tape around any ragged edges, giving the piece a smooth, finished look.

Tags: duct tape, duct tape, duct tape, from duct, from duct tape, anything from, duct tape into

Ant Bite Facts

Some ant "bites" are really stings from pinchers.

Ranging in size from mere millimeters to inches long, ants are viewed as industrious workers, annoying pests and interesting scientific study topics. Perhaps one of the only insects to be regularly invited into homes as pets (via ant farms), ants have long fascinated humans with their organized community and way of life. However, ants can also be mighty little pests, despite their relatively minute sizes. With fierce biting and stinging capabilities, these little insects of the family Formicidae can cause much irritation and frustration during the warmer months. Does this Spark an idea?

Fire Ants

Perhaps best known for their fiercely frustrating (and painful) "bites," fire ants are common in regions with warm climates and often build their nests close to rivers, lakes or other water sources. Fire ants do not actually bite their victims. Instead, these pests use their pinchers to establish a firm grasp on their subjects and use their abdomen to sting their victims, thereby injecting a venom by the name of solenopsin. A fire ant may continue to sting its victim many times; the resulting welt is usually the result of a circular area that has been stung. Usually not lethal (unless perhaps under rare extremely allergic conditions), an estimated 20 million people are bitten each year by fire ants.

Bullet Ant Bites

Bullet ants are another species of ant that also stings (rather than bites) its prey. Named after the sensation of pain caused by the sting, bullet ants cause their victims to feel as if they've just been shot by a bullet. These ants reside in both Central and South America, and according to the Shmidt Sting Pain Index, the sting delivered by these ants is thought to be the most painful sting in the insect world.

Bull Ants

Bull ants, native to Australia, are also infamous for their biting tendencies. Again, while the bites of bull ants are not usually overly threatening to most individuals, victims who are allergic to the bite of these insects may need to seek immediate medical attention, as bull ant bites account for several deaths each year. Reaching lengths up to about four centimeters, bull ants are larger than many other ants. The bites of bull ants can usually be treated with antihistamines.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are known to bite humans only when these ants feel threatened in some way. Unlike other bites and stings, carpenter ant bites do not inject any venom into their subjects, and because of this, they tend to be far less painful and heal much faster.

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Are Mosquito Dunks Safe For Pools

Mosquito dunks present no danger to swimmers when used properly.

Mosquito larvae have to develop in standing water before they become become adult mosquitoes. Even a small area where water remains for seven to 10 days can support mosquito larvae. Because pool water often stays still over long periods, mosquitoes may lay eggs in it. Mosquito dunks may be able to safely kill the mosquito larvae in the pool. Does this Spark an idea?

Bacteria

A mosquito dunk contains the bacterium Bacillus thiringiensis israelensis as the active ingredient. This bacterium naturally occurs in the soil and also comes in a liquid spray formulation that you can use in the garden to control mosquitoes. The Bti in mosquito dunks produces a toxin that attacks the larvae of certain insects, including mosquitoes, black flies and aquatic gnats. The toxin damages the larvae's digestive tract and eventually kills the larvae.

Application

You can obtain mosquito dunks from pet stores, garden centers, hardware stores, pool supply stores and home improvement centers. A mosquito dunk comes as a doughnut-shaped solid item that you simply immerse in the still body of water where mosquito larvae develop. Water breaks down the mosquito dunk and distributes the bacterial toxin throughout the pool, killing the mosquito larvae. One mosquito dunk treatment lasts for 30 days before you need to reapply.

Safety

Because the toxin released by Bti only attacks the larvae of certain insects, it is safe for use in pools. If you use mosquito dunks according to the product label instructions, the Bti toxin does not harm humans swimming in the pools. It also does not harm pets, birds and wildlife. In fact, Access America E-gov E-zine recommends using mosquito dunks for all sources of standing water outdoors, including pools, bird baths and fish ponds.

Efficacy

Whether mosquito dunks can effectively kill the mosquito larvae in your pool depends on its size. According to North Carolina Cooperative Extension, mosquito dunks work best in small pools 100 square feet or less in size. If you have a larger pool, proper maintenance procedures should keep it free of mosquito larvae. Chlorine prevents mosquito larvae from developing in the pool. Turning on the pool filter and aeration system also improves water circulation and keeps mosquito larvae away.

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Equine Neurological Disorders That Mimic Epm

Several equine neurological disorders have common symptoms.

Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis, also known by the acronym EPM, is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorders in horses. The symptoms include muscle atrophy, loss of coordination, trouble swallowing, stumbling, drowsiness, general weakness, sore back,tilted head and drooping eyelids. Several neurological disorders have similar or identical symptoms to EPM; subsequently, horses are sometimes diagnosed with EPM when in fact a different disorder is present. Alternatively, a horse with EPM may be wrongly diagnosed with a different neurological condition that mimics EPM's symptoms.

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNV) is transmitted by mosquitos and affects an infected horse's central nervous system. Neurological symptoms produced by WNV mimic those of EPM. These include lameness, falling down on the front knees, toe dragging, drowsiness, fever and additional symptoms such as violent behavior or extreme sensitivity to touch, light and sound. About half of all horses who contract WNV will survive the infection, and a vaccine is available for those horses who have not been infected.

Equine Encephalitis

Two types of equine encephalitis -- Eastern Equine Encephalitis or "EEE" and Western Equine Encephalitis or "WEE" -- are transmitted to horses by mosquitoes. A horse infected either of these conditions may display symptoms that mimic those associated with EPM: lethargy, weakness, a lack of coordination, recumbency or even death. Preventative vaccines are available, but once a horse is infected there is no cure for EEE and WEE. Some horses will independently recover from these diseases, but many are euthanized to save additional suffering to the horse when recovery is unlikely.

Equine Herpes Virus Type I

Equine Herpes Virus Type I, known by the acronym EHV-1, is usually first noticed as a form of respiratory disease. However, EHV-1 can sometimes take a form that affects the horse's nervous system, with symptoms similar to those associated with EPM. These may include weakness, hind-leg paralysis, recumbency and death. While no particular treatment for EHV-1 exists, care and therapeutic treatment of symptoms can help a horse to recover from the virus.

Tags: neurological disorders, associated with, diagnosed with, disorders have, Equine Encephalitis, Equine Herpes

About Mushrooms Growing In The Lawn

About Mushrooms Growing in the Lawn

Congratulations. You have mushrooms growing in the lawn. Many homeowners think that mushrooms are somehow dangerous or indicative of disease, but nothing could be further from the truth. Mushrooms are actually quite helpful to the soil. The only danger by having mushrooms in the lawn is if pets or small children actually eat them, since most mushroom species are poisonous. Mushrooms help nurture a healthy lawn and provide valuable nutrients to the soil. Does this Spark an idea?

Identification

The most common mushrooms growing in a typical suburban lawn include stinkhorns, puff balls and birds nests. Stinkhorns look like thick fingers sticking up from the lawn, with a black, slightly slimy cap. Although they're ugly and smell bad, they do have redeeming qualities. Stinkhorns attract beneficial insects, and they break down organic matter under the soil into its many components, including nitrogen, which helps green up a lawn. The puff ball mushroom is characterized by round, ping pong ball-sized white caps. When you knock into them, they release a cloud of spores to make more mushrooms. Birds nest mushrooms typically cluster in groups, and do indeed look like tiny nests with "eggs" inside. The eggs are actually the part of the mushroom that contains the spores, the seeds of which will continue to make new mushrooms.

Misconceptions

Many homeowners are afraid of mushrooms in the lawn. They think that mushrooms contain disease or will ruin the lawn. The opposite is true. Mushrooms indicate a healthy lawn, with lots of organic matter, such as leaves, branches or twigs in the soil. The more mushrooms, the healthier the lawn. Another common misconception is that picking the mushrooms or running over them with a lawn mower or weed whacker will get rid of them permanently. Every time you disturb a mushroom, you're actually helping it propagate by releasing the spores inside of it. So when you hit it with the lawn mower, you're actually seeding the space with more spores. Whether they grow depends on the conditions.

Benefits

Mushrooms benefit the lawn in many ways. First, they will decompose organic matter in the soil. This process releases nutrients into the soil to help your lawn grow better. Grass growing in areas once inhabited by mushrooms tends to be lush, green and thick. This is often due to the higher nitrogen content in the soil. If your lawn looks spotty, with patches of dark green from mushroom activity among lighter green, applying more fertilizer to the lighter green areas will often help even out the darker patches and create one swath of emerald green lawn.

Warning

The only known risk of mushrooms in the lawn is the risk of poisoning if anyone eats the mushrooms. Although a very small risk, parents know that small children frequently put anything and everything into their mouths. This may include mushrooms. Little ones love to "pick flowers" and may inadvertantly pick mushrooms, believing them to be flowers. Many species of mushroom are poisonous, and it takes an expert to identify safe mushrooms from poisonous ones. If worried about children playing on a lawn infested with mushrooms, simply have an adult pick the mushrooms before children go out to play.

Expert Insight

If you're still bothered by the mushrooms growing on the lawn, the only way to totally eradicate mushroom growth is to actually remove the soil where they grow. Probe the soil and look for places where there are mats of growth under mushrooms. Dig up the mat to a depth of 6 or more inches to remove all traces of spores. Remove objects that create environments favorable to mushroom growth, such as stumps, branches and clumps of fallen leaves. But the healthiest way to manage mushrooms is to simply let them run their course. They add more than they take away, and a few days of unsightly, or even smelly, mushroom growth will yield a greener lawn in the future.

Tags: mushroom growth, mushrooms growing, mushrooms lawn, organic matter, About Mushrooms

Freeze Dry Insects

Collect and freeze dry flies.

Capturing insects is a tricky proposition. Collecting insects to freeze dry makes the scheme even trickier. Freeze dried insects are often collected by farmers to use as feed. Scientists who accumulate freeze dried insects do so for reasons of experimentation and study of the creatures. It is possible to freeze dry nearly all varieties of insects -- from mosquitoes to ants -- and the process, once mastered, is easily repeated.

Instructions

1. Gather the insects. Prepare enough solution to anesthetize and preserve -- as opposed to kill -- the targeted insects. Dilute the solution according to the directions. Nematoda, for example, requires a use of 10% of the actual formalin solution, a 70% alcohol substitution and 30% water. Amounts of adjusted solution will vary depending upon how many square feet you wish to cover. Spray the solution onto foliage, hay and other natural objects as necessary.

2. Turn on a suction vacuum with an attached collection bag. Aim the nozzle at branches and twigs where insects have become comatose. Suck up insects from off of the ground or on leaves. Shake foliage to remove hidden insects and make them easier to collect.

3. Remove insects from collection bag with tweezers. Pinch the insects gently and place them into Petri dishes. Position a maximum of five insects into one Petri dish -- depending on the size of the creatures. Secure lids to all of the dishes.

4. Place the Petri dishes carefully and immediately into a freeze drier set at -30 degrees Celsius. Keep insects frozen for 48 to 72 hours before removing.

Tags: insects from, dried insects, into Petri, Petri dishes

Clean A Mosquito Magnet

Mosquitoes can make it impossible to enjoy your yard.

The Mosquito Magnet trap helps remove biting insects from your yard. The Mosquito Magnet produces a warm carbon dioxide plume from propane gas, combined with octenol, which attracts the mosquitoes to the device. The Mosquito Magnet then vacuums the bugs into a net where they die from dehydration. Periodic cleaning of the Mosquito Magnet is necessary to make sure the vacuum's air flow is unrestricted, the net isn't full and the propane tank entrance doesn't become clogged. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use a Quick-Clear cartridge with the Quick-Clear valve to prevent clogging from the build up of propane contaminants. Quick-Clear cartridges can be purchased at retail stores that sell the Mosquito Magnet. Use the Quick-Clear valve after the first propane change and after each tank change. You will experience trap failure from clogging if contaminants are allowed to build up.

2. Empty and clean the mosquito net when it is half full. Replace the mosquito net if it becomes ripped or damaged. It can also become excessively dirty from dust and pollen after months of use. Replacement nets can be purchased from the company's website at Mosquitomagnet.com.

3. Wipe the outside of the trap with a damp towel to keep it clean.

4. Remove any dead bugs that are stuck to the inside of the vent. Too many bugs can reduce air flow, making the vacuum less effective.

Tags: Mosquito Magnet, your yard Mosquito, Quick-Clear valve, yard Mosquito, yard Mosquito Magnet

Grow A Hummingbird Vine

A hummingbird vine is also known as a trumpet vine. It got its names from the trumpet shaped flowers that grow on it which are a favorite of the hummingbird. This plant is also sometimes called a trumpet creeper or a cow itch vine. Read on to learn grow hummingbird vine. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Start your hummingbird vine by sowing seeds outdoors in the fall or getting an offspring from someone who has a vine in the spring.

2. Plant the vine some place where it will get full sun or partial shade. A hummingbird vine will not grow in full shade.

3. Give the vine something to climb on. A fence or pole is best. Do not allow the vine to grow on a tree, it will strangle and kill the tree. While it might be tempting to plant a Hummingbird vine near your house, it is never a good idea. The vine will grow very large with a woody stalk and can become as large as a tree. It needs plenty of room to grow.

4. Prune your hummingbird vine in spring or fall. Pruning the vine on a regular basis will prevent it from getting too large.

5. Deadhead the vine as the flowers die if you do not want seed pods to form. If you want to get seeds from your hummingbird vine do not deadhead it. Seed pods will form in the fall. The pods should be left on the vine to dry before collecting the seeds.

6. Water during dry periods. It is not necessary to water you hummingbird vine when you are getting average rainfall, but if there is a dry period be sure to give it a drink.

7. Weed out the offspring of the vine if you do not want them growing all over your yard. Hummingbird vines can become invasive in the right growing conditions.

Tags: hummingbird vine, hummingbird vine, your hummingbird, your hummingbird vine, vine spring, vine will

The Impact Of The Federal Reserve On Inflation

Ted Allrich states in his book "Comfort Zone Investing," that the chairman of the Federal Reserve is more powerful than the President of the United States due to his immense control over the monetary system. The ability to control inflation is one reason for this reputation. When prices of basic goods and services begin to rise and inflation encroaches on the country, the Fed has many tools it can use to promote this activity or curb it.

Raise Interest Rates

Raising the interest rate is the primary tool the Federal Reserve uses to impact inflation. High interest rates deter people from borrowing money. When few people are borrowing money and banks are not issuing as many loans, the money supply contracts and the prices of goods and services decline. On the other hand, low interest rates compel people to consider purchasing expensive items including homes and cars. When banks issue loans, this money increases the amount of money in circulation. This expansion of the money supply corresponds with a rise in prices.

Sell Assets

The Federal Reserve can sell its government-backed assets and in doing so, remove them from circulation. Removing money from circulation by contracting the money supply means prices remain stable or in some cases, decrease. A 2010 'Wall Street Journal Market Watch' article explains that the Fed is exerting caution when selling its mortgage-backed securities to avoid rising prices. On the other hand, the Fed buys such assets when it wants to flood the market with liquidity and encourage rising prices.

Considerations

The Federal Reserve is not the only party responsible for managing inflation. Inflation is also a risk when the budget is not balanced and the U.S. is in too much debt. During these times, an enticing way to pay off the debts is through printing more money. Germany printed more money to pay its exorbitant war reparations post-WWI and consequently caused its currency to become worthless. Thus, maintaining a balanced budget and low trade deficit is another way the U.S. can offset the risk of inflation.

Expert Insight

The chairman of the Federal Reserve implements policies based on his economic school of thought. Those who adopt a Keynesian belief towards economics believe inflation is prevented by strict control over the markets and infusing the economy with cash during down times. President Obama's Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke subscribes to this belief. Other chairmen subscribe to Fredrick Hayek's Austrian school of thought, which states the government's role should be limited and the market self-corrects. President Reagan's chairman, Paul Volcker adopted these beliefs.

Tags: Federal Reserve, money supply, borrowing money, chairman Federal, chairman Federal Reserve, control over, from circulation

Diy Mosquito Bait

Some areas of the world require netting as protection against mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are a type of insect in the Diptera, or true fly, family. As such, mosquitoes have two wings; unlike other true flies, the wings are covered in scales. Over 2,500 mosquito species exist in the world, with over 200 species in the United States alone. Some species can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, yellow fever, filariasis and West Nile virus. Mosquitoes can attack livestock, leading to a decrease in weight and milk production. You can protect your family and animals from mosquitoes by making your own mosquito bait. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take a 2-liter bottle and cut it about 2/3 of the way up. This is the funnel portion of the bottle. Save both bottle pieces.

2. Mix one part brown sugar in two parts boiling water. Place the mixture in a container and set it in your refrigerator to chill.

3. Pour the sugar water and a gram of yeast into the bottom section of the cut bottle. Take the top funnel part of the bottle and place it upside down into the bottom half of the bottle. Tape the sections together.

4. Cover the sides of the bottle in dark paper. Do not cover the opening, which is how the mosquitoes will enter the trap. Place the bottle wherever you are having mosquito problems. The trap creates carbon dioxide, which is attractive to mosquitoes. The bait should last a few weeks before it requires replacing.

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Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Noseeums

Called no-see-ums because of their small size, biting midges (Culicoides spp.) are a common pest in damp areas, especially in the early morning and around dusk. With a wing-span that's less than 1/8 inch, the flying and biting insects often go unnoticed until they begin to bite the skin. Adult biting midges feed on blood, but do not spread diseases among humans, making them more of a nuisance than a serious pest. Though chemical insecticides have historically been the weapon of choice against no-see-ums, natural methods and preventative measures can go a long way. Does this Spark an idea?

Botanicals

Many natural insecticides and insect repellents rely on botanical oils and extracts, and may work against no-see-ums with varied results. Look for candles, sprays and fragrances that contain active ingredients such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass or geranium oils. Typically, botanical-based bug repellent sprays, to be applied to the body, last up to 20 minutes, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Landscaping

Instead of scrambling to obliterate a booming population of no-see-ums, take steps to make your garden or yard less attractive to the flying pests. No-see-um eggs require standing water or damp soil, so if you can remove any pools or swampy ground from your yard, you can dramatically reduce their population. Naturally, if you live in a place where marshland predominates, you have less control over potential breeding grounds. On the other hand, if you live in a dry climate, simply clearing any water that's pooled around your air conditioner may cut out a prime breeding territory.

Screens and Fans

If you live close to marshes or ponds, you can't stop no-see-ums from proliferating. However, you can use screening and install ceiling fans to repel the insects from your favorite outdoor spots. Screen in any patios or verandas with the smallest gauge mesh you can find. As an additional measure, install ceiling fans above your preferred seating areas. The continuous gusts of wind from a fan make it difficult for tiny no-see-ums to fly.

Additional Considerations

While natural insect repellents and physical barriers can partially cut down on no-see-um problems, the best way of avoiding their bites is to keep your body covered with long-sleeve shorts, long pants and socks. When spending a long period outdoors around dusk or dawn, such as during gardening, wear a netted hat to protect your face. For lightweight but bug-proof clothing, try specialized jackets or pants made from the same insect-proof mesh. If the problem persists, contact your county or municipal insect control authority and ask what programs they have in place.

Tags: against no-see-ums, around dusk, biting midges, ceiling fans, from your, insect repellents, install ceiling

Breed Guppies

If you house together at least one female guppy and at least one male guppy, chances are you will eventually have a crowded fish tank. Guppies breed like rabbits and watching the babies grow is a pleasure. Here are some tips on how breed guppies.

Instructions

Let nature take its course

1. Set up a basic tropical fish tank, using a rectangle acrylic or glass fish tank that can hold at least 10 gallons of water. Assemble your heater and keep it between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Assemble an oxygen pump as well. Let your fish tank cycle for several weeks until you add your guppies. Enrich your water and make it healthier by adding manufactured bacteria from your local fish store.

2. Purchase and add to your tank two or three female adult guppies and one male guppy. The number of females should always outnumber the number of males because the males are going to chase after them and could wear them out if there are not enough for the males to alternate between. Choose wisely-these fish are going to mate and mate often, and you want their babies to be attractive. You may opt to purchase half of your fish stock from a different pet store to discourage inbreeding. Guppies who are inbred are more susceptible to genetic disorders and diseases.

3. Feed your fish a pinch of veggie flakes or protein once or twice a day. Do not allow your water to become cloudy. Clean it regularly as you would any other fish tank. If one fish shows signs of disease, remove it from the aquarium and treat it in another "hospital" tank.

4. Let nature take its course. The male guppy is going to chase the female guppies. The guppies are going to mate. The females are going to become pregnant. They will stay pregnant for about a month. Their stomachs will grow, obviously. Their gravid spot-the black spot near their abdomens -will grow. Around the time they are due to pop, you will see little pairs of baby guppy eyes through their spot, and their abdomens will appear boxy.

5. Set up several plastic "grass" plants in your tank before the babies are born. They can be rooted into the gravel on the bottom of the tank or placed to float on the surface. Either way, they are going to serve as shelters for the babies. Guppies are livebearers. They give birth to fry rather than hatch eggs. They also have no maternal instincts-they eat their young.

6. Watch as your baby guppies appear out of the blue one day. Out of the dozens of guppy babies that each female is going to produce, only a handful will survive. It's Guppy Darwinism. Accept this.

7. Feed your baby guppies a pinch of finely-crushed veggie flakes, bloodworms or shrimp at least twice a day. The pieces must be small enough to fit in their little mouths. They also enjoy crushed egg yolks, although this will make your water dirty.

8. Enjoy watching your babies develop. They will show their colors and markings after about 1-2 months. They will be able to breed themselves after they are about four months old.

Tags: fish tank, male guppy, your fish, your water, baby guppies, Feed your, going chase

Raise The Potash Levels In A Container Garden

Raise the Potash Levels in a Container Garden

If you've noticed the tips and edges of your leaves are looking yellow and scorched, chances are your container garden doesn't have enough potassium. A great way to fix the problem is to add a potassium-rich fertilizer, also called potash, which can include anything from greensand or cow manure to wood ashes. As the potash is absorbed into the rest of the soil, and eventually the plants, you should begin to see healthier plants growing in your container garden. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Sprinkle a coating of wood ash over the top surface layer of your containers. Avoid touching the stems of any growing plants, but do sprinkle around them within two to four inches of the base of the plant.

2. Mix the wood ash lightly with the upper one to two inches of the soil with your cultivator if you have plants growing in the container to which you added potash. Mix the ash and soil just enough to turn it under so the wood ash doesn't blow away in the wind, but avoid damaging any roots under the soil.

3. Turn the soil in the entire container to mix in the potash if you don't have any plants currently growing in your container. Mix the wood ash with the existing soil thoroughly.

4. Add more wood ash only if you continue to notice the same symptoms of deficiency after a month or two, as too much potassium can be potentially harmful to your plants. Upon reapplication, still only use a light coating of wood ash over the surface.

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Care For Guppies

Guppies are members of the family Poedciliidae.

Hardy tropical fish, guppies are native to Barbados. Guppies are members of the family Poedciliidae, and usually measure between 1 ½ inches and inches in length. As with many types of species, the males are more colorful than the females, but the females are larger. Easy to care for, guppies usually do not require a tank larger than 10 gallons. Heavy breeders, female guppies can produce between 50 and 100 live babies at one time. Proper care is required to keep the guppies healthy and producing at their normal rates.

Instructions

1. Maintain a pH level between 6.8 and 7.6 in the tank at all times. Use a water testing kit to determine the pH of the water in your guppy tank. Adjust the pH of the water if necessary, following the instructions that came with the water testing kit.

2. Provide the guppies with a constant water temperature between 75 and 85 degrees. Attach a heater to the tank and set the dial to the required temperature. Check the thermostat regularly to ensure that the temperature is within range.

3. Attach a biological filter to the tank, which will help maintain good water quality. A biological filter removes bacteria and waste from the water, keeping the water clear.

4. Add live or plastic plants to the tank, which will give the guppies a place to hide when necessary. Along with an air stone and an algae eater, the plants will help keep your tank water clean and improve the oxygen/carbon dioxide exchange.

5. Supplement your guppy's diet with protein. Fish flakes are a guppy food staple, but baby brine shrimp and white worms are a tasty protein treat. Follow the label instructions for allocation amounts when providing supplemental feedings. Guppies fare better when fed three small daily meals opposed to one big meal.

6. Siphon out 20 percent of the tank water on a weekly basis. Use a siphon purchased from a fish or pet store to remove the water from the tank. Insert one end of the siphon into the water at the substrate level and the other end into a bucket to collect the siphoned water. Add fresh water to the tank after siphoning.

Tags: biological filter, family Poedciliidae, Guppies members, Guppies members family, members family

Endangered Species In Mahogany Mountain Oregon

Mahogany Mountain is a caldera volcano in Oregon made up of large amber-colored cliffs, some of which contain honeycombing effects. Part of the area where streams have eroded through the rock to create canyons that surround the mountain is called Leslie Gulch. The mountain and the surrounding area are home to many plant and animal species. Some of those species have become endangered over time, others are a part of dwindling populations that will soon be considered endangered.

Warm-blooded Animals

Among the many birds, mammals and other warm-blooded animals that live on Mahogany Mountain, the bighorn sheep, white-tailed antelope squirrel, mountain squirrel, and Townsend's big-eared bat are among the endangered inhabitants, according to the "Kalmiopsis Journal," published by the Native Plant Society of Oregon. The journal describes the animal habitats as Mahogany Mountain and the surrounding areas. The bald eagle also calls the mountain home. It is one of the most well-known endangered species.

Trees

Though they seem plentiful in the Mahogany Mountain area, there are a few trees that are in danger of extinction. They are the Ponderosa pine and the curled leaf mountain mahogany. These trees are endangered in other states as well, making their existence on Mahogany Mountain even more significant.

Plants

Endangered plants on Mahogany Mountain have learned to thrive on the rocky terrain. According to "Kalmiopsis Journal," the plant actually grow in volcanic ash that has formed on and around the mountain. Among these plants, the Packard's blazingstar, grimy mousetail, and barren milkvetch flowers are considered threatened by the state of Oregon. They form colonies on the sides of the mountain and in the surrounding canyons that are constantly under siege by erosion.

Reptiles

Cold-blooded animals also call Mahogany Mountain home. The Mojave black-collared lizard and western ground snake are the endangered species among them. These reptiles are actually considered rare in the state of Oregon.

Tags: Mahogany Mountain, canyons that, endangered species, Kalmiopsis Journal, mountain surrounding, state Oregon

Clean A Concrete Bird Bath

Clean a concrete bird bath with the garden hose.

A concrete bird bath attracts birds to your yard, where you can enjoy watching them as they splash around in the bath. The water not only allows the birds to clean themselves, but also keeps off the mites that often feed on birds. Since the bird baths are placed outdoors, and birds constantly use the baths, the concrete quickly becomes stained and soiled with dirt, algae, bird droppings and other outdoor elements. Plus, when you leave the water standing for too long you provide a place for mosquito larvae to develop. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Change the water in the bird bath every one to two days. Dump out the water, rinse with the garden hose and refill with clean water. This prevents the bath water from stagnating, thus providing a breeding ground for mosquito larvae and harmful bacteria.

2. Fill the bird bath with 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water when heavier buildup is present.

While many people use bleach to clean the bird baths, vinegar is a safe, chemical-free disinfectant and cleaning agent that won't harm the birds and surrounding vegetation.

3. Let the vinegar and water stand for 15 minutes, and scrub with a nylon scrub brush.

4. Discard the vinegar water when all residue is scrubbed off of the concrete.

5. Fill the concrete bird bath with fresh water from the garden hose.

6. Drop a birdbath additive cleaner into the bird bath every 30 days, or as recommended on the brand you purchase. These come in liquid and tablet form, and reduce cloudiness, stains and residue buildup.

Tags: bird bath, bath with, bird bath with, concrete bird bath, garden hose, bath every

Doityourself Water Globes

Capture a beloved memory by adding a personal treasure to your water globe.

Water globes are water-filled containers that hold small objects and typically have small flecks of fake snow or glitter that float in the water when the globe is shaken. The objects inside the globes range from miniature scenes of people or nature to keepsakes, such as toys or photos. Make your own globes filled with snow instead of purchasing generic ones to give as gifts for the holidays. You could even capture a memory, such as a laminated wedding photo, with a water globe.

Instructions

1. Wash a glass jar and its matching screw-on lid thoroughly with hot soapy water to remove any food residue. Rinse well and let the pieces air-dry. Paint the outside of the metal lid to match the color scheme of your water globe using oil-based enamel paint. Let the paint dry.

2. Turn the lid over so you are looking at the underside of the lid. Affix small plastic or ceramic objects to the inside surface of the lid using florist clay. Include miniature people, figurines, flowers, trees or buildings to create a scene for a holiday or seasonal water globe. Use small toys, such as cars, trains, balls, clowns or animals, for a water globe made for a child.

3. Fill the glass container with distilled water, leaving approximately 1/4-inch of headspace so the objects on the lid do not cause the water to overflow when the lid is screwed on. Add 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. of glitter or fake snow, or both, to the water, depending on how large the jar is and how thick you want the snow or sparkle to fall when the globe is shaken.

4. Add a drop or two of glycerin to the water, but not too much or the snow or glitter will get stuck to the lid. Glycerin helps slow the floating material as it falls down in the water and is sold at drugstores.

5. Add a line of hot glue around the inside rim of the jar and quickly screw the lid onto the jar of water so the objects are submerged. Screw the lid on as tight as possible and add another line of hot-glue in the space between the rim of the lid and the glass jar.

6. Use hot glue to attach the lid of the water globe to a wood block that is painted or stained if you'd like a wooden base for your water globe.

Tags: water globe, your water globe, your water, fake snow, globe shaken

Osage Orange Insect Repellents

The Osage orange (Maclura pomifera), also known as hedge apple, is a bumpy fruit that grows in the Great Plains. Many people believe that the Osage orange can be used to keep insects out of homes, but the evidence for its effectiveness is mixed. Does this Spark an idea?

History

One folk remedy claims that placing an Osage orange in your house will keep away insects such as cockroaches. However, research at the University of Iowa suggests that while the fruit does have bug repelling properties, simply placing an Osage orange in your house will do nothing to ward off critters.

Function

Osage orange oil contains chemicals known as sesquiterpenoid components, which are part of a group called terpenoids. Terpenoids give scents and flavors to ginger, cinnamon, cloves and menthol.

Fun Fact

Iowa State researchers have obtained a patent to use sesquiterpenoid components from the Osage orange as a natural insect repellent, according to the University of Illinois.

Tags: Osage orange, your house will, house will, orange your, orange your house, Osage orange your, placing Osage

An All Natural Bug Spray For A Vegetable Garden

Keep vegetable gardens pest-free by using natural bug sprays.

If you have ever worked hard at growing a vegetable garden only to find that bugs are eating your vegetables, you know how discouraging that can be. However, you can spray the vegetable plants with an all natural bug spray, which you can make at home, that will keep the bugs off your plants, and not harm your family or the environment. Does this Spark an idea?

Soapy Water

Simple soapy water works to keep some insects off your vegetable plants. Mix your soap and water in a spray bottle, 3 parts water to 1 part dish soap. To use the mixture, simply spray the soapy water on your vegetable plants. Soak the leaves and any growing produce thoroughly. If it rains or if you water your garden, you may want to spray the plants again, as the soap will wash off.

Lemon Grass

Use Thai lemon grass to make a concoction that some insects do not like. Crush 1/2 cup of lemon grass leaves, and put them in a spray bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with rubbing alcohol. Spray this on your plants at the first sign of bugs. To prevent possible foliage damage, allow the solution to remain on the foliage for two hours and then off rinse with water.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is an inexpensive way to keep bugs off your vegetables. You will need 1 cup of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of dish soap. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of the oil mixture to 1 cup of water and mix well. Fill a spray bottle with the mixture and spray the vegetable's foliage. To prevent possible plant injury, test the solution on a small portion of foliage before using it on the entire plant. Wait 24 hours and if foliage injury does not occur, spray the entire plant. Do not use the mixture on plants when conditions are sunny and temperatures are above 80 degrees F. Spray the vegetable plants late in the evening. Use weekly to keep bugs at bay.

Garlic

Garlic is another ingredient that helps keep bugs off your vegetables. Grate a whole head of raw garlic, and mix it with 1 cup of vegetable oil. Store this mixture in the refrigerator for two days, or until the oil has a very strong garlic smell. Once the garlic smell is very strong, separate the garlic from the oil. Fill a spray bottle with 3 cups of warm water, 3 teaspoons of the garlic-infused oil and 2 teaspoons of dish soap. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Spray the mixture on your plants at the first sign of insect damage. To prevent plant damage, test the mixture on a small portion of the plant's foliage. Wait 24 hours and if damage does not occur, spray the entire plant. Do not apply to foliage when conditions are above 80 degrees F. and sunny. Apply the mixture late in the evening.

Tags: keep bugs, spray bottle, vegetable plants, bottle with, bugs your

Bathtubs That Retain Heat

The right bathtub can allow you to create your own spa environment.

Whether for little children who have had a busy day of playing or adults trying to wind down after a long day, a warm bath can start a relaxing evening and help promote a good night's sleep. To ensure you can enjoy long, warm baths in your bathroom, it is essential to choose a tub that retains heat effectively. Does this Spark an idea?

Enameled Cast Iron

Enameled cast iron bathtubs are very durable, come in a variety of color choices and hold heat very well. Potential downsides are primarily their cost and weight. An empty tub can weigh more than 300 pounds. Before installing one of these tubs, it is essential to ensure your floor has enough support to hold the bathtub.

Acrylic Tubs

With their availability in a variety of colors, sizes and styles, acrylic bathtubs have the benefit of being lightweight and are more durable than fiberglass. As long as acrylic tubs are properly insulated, they retain heat very well. The only drawback to choosing an acrylic tub is that they can be scratched and stained when exposed to the right material, such as hair dye.

Cast Polymers

Cast polymers, such as cultured marble, granite or onyx, are bathtubs that appear to be stone but have the capability to be molded like synthetic materials. These types of bathtubs are thicker than acrylic or fiberglass and hold heat well, without the necessary insulation of acrylic. Potential downfalls to cast polymer bathtubs are scratches or other damages to their gel coat, which is not as durable as acrylic bathtubs.

Soapstone, Brass and Copper

Known as a higher-end choice for a bathtub, soapstone is an excellent choice for heat retention. Although this type of bathtub is dependable for its ability to hold heat, its cost and limited style options can be drawbacks. Brass and copper retain heat very well and resist denting due to the thickness of the materials.

Fiberglass

The benefits of fiberglass bathtubs include being affordable, lightweight and their availability of styles and colors. Unfortunately, fiberglass bathtubs do not retain heat well and are also subject to scratching easily and fading. While a cheaper option for a bathtub, fiberglass is not as durable as acrylic.

Tags: heat very, heat very well, hold heat, very well, acrylic bathtubs

Make A Civil War Dress

Make a Civil War Dress

Civil War dresses have an elegance and style rarely duplicated since that time. Sleeves and skirts were full, held aloft by a hoop skirt underneath, with bodices narrow and usually pointed at the waist. You can use a small check, satin stripes, or a solid color for your dress, with velvet ribbon and narrow lace trim. The project requires some skill at sewing. Buy one of the patterns on the market, or make a dress from scratch by taking apart clothing you have to use as a guide. When you're finished, you'll have a beautiful custom-made 1860s style dress to wear.

Instructions

1. Cut the back and front pieces of the A-line bodice, tapering it to the waist in front and ending in a point. Make a slight cap sleeve at the ends of the shoulders. Once the bodice is assembled, trim the round neckline with a narrow row of cotton lace. Add a velvet or satin bow at the throat. Sew four bands of velvet to the bodice, two on either side on the front, descending from the shoulders so they curve downward and meet at the pointed waist.

2. Make the sleeves long and full. Draw the fabric in at the end of the sleeve by finishing it with a tight cuff. Attach the sleeves at the shoulder beneath the cap sleeves of the bodice. Edge the cap sleeves with a band of velvet and narrow lace.

3. Make the skirt in sections to create fullness. Civil War skirts are often sewn using four panels. Once the panels are sewn together, use elastic to gather the skirt at the waistband. About a quarter of the way from the bottom, end the skirt with a ruffle. Add a second layer of fabric below that, bringing the dress to the ground and hemming it with a bottom ruffle. Make the ruffles from the same fabric as the skirt, or make them out of white eyelet for contrast.

4. Attach the bodice to the skirt at the waist by stitching them together. Allow the pointed waist to show over the waistband of the full skirt.

5. Buy a stiff crinoline square dancing slip to wear beneath the full skirt to make it even fuller. The crinoline underneath will make the skirt puff out and start falling from the knees down as you want it to. You can also leave it out for ease and comfort if you prefer.

Tags: pointed waist, Civil Dress, full skirt, Make Civil, Make Civil Dress, narrow lace

Ant Repellent Herbs

Mint has a strong scent that can deter ants.

Ants can deliver an irritating sting. They also can invade your home, swarming toward the kitchen and getting into any food that is not completely sealed up. There are many methods for repelling ants from your home. Using herbs is one effective option. There are several herbs that can keep your home free of ants. Does this Spark an idea?

Tansy

Tansy is a perennial plant that grows between 3 and 4 feet tall. It is most effective against sugar ants, so check the species of your invading ants. It can be planted by the door or dried and sprinkled throughout the home. It also will repel moths and attract ladybugs. Tansy is toxic to livestock, so it should not be planted near livestock grazing areas.

Mint

Mint is an aromatic herb that can be used to repel ants from the home. Fresh or dried mint leaves can be scattered around the affected areas, or mint can be planted around the house. It is important to remember that mint is an herb that spreads very quickly and can choke out other plants. Spearmint, catmint and peppermint all work as ant repellents.

Pennyroyal

The pennyroyal is a strong, pungent herb that deters a number of different pests. Not only does it repel ants, it also keeps away aphids, ticks, cabbage maggots and fleas. Pennyroyal can be planted around the home, or in the garden, where it is a useful companion plant for broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts.

Sage

Dried leaves of sage can be placed around your home. Not only does sage have a pleasant smell, it can prevent ants from entering your home at all. Growing sage near the door or around the foundations of the house also can prevent ants from getting in. Sage also can be used as an herb for flavoring food.

Tags: your home, ants from, herb that, only does, planted around