Earth Rotating

Earth Rotating
the 
Correct Way

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the WRONG Way !
(MAY BE SLOW)

Air Purifier 🪴 House Plants Alternative

A Surprising Alternative
To An Air Purifier
 

Purify the air without an air filter by buying potted plants that naturally clean your air. Some good choices are Rubber trees, Corn plants, Bamboo Palm, Ficus, Gerbera Daisies, English Ivy, Peace Lily and Philodendrons. 

 15 Houseplants 
to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Plants help clean indoor air, which is typically far more polluted than outdoor air. Find out what common toxins these plants can filter out of the air in your home.

In the late 1980s, NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America studied houseplants as a way to purify the air in space facilities. They found several plants that filter out common volatile organic compounds (VOCs). 

Lucky for us the plants can also help clean indoor air on Earth, which is typically far more polluted than outdoor air. 
Other studies have since been published in the Journal of American Society of Horticultural Science further proving the science. Here's our handy of list of the best air-filtering plants. (Plus, at the bottom of this story, you'll find links about plants that are good for the air and also safe for your pets.)

Aloe

(Aloe Vera)

This easy-to-grow, sun-loving succulent helps clear formaldehyde and benzene, which can be a byproduct of chemical-based cleaners, paints and more. Aloe is a smart choice for a sunny kitchen window. Beyond its air-clearing abilities, the gel inside an aloe plant can help heal cuts and burns.

Spider Plant
(ChlorophytumComosum)

Even if you tend to neglect houseplants, you'll have a hard time killing this resilient plant. With lots of rich foliage and tiny white flowers, the spider plant battles benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene, a solvent used in the leather, rubber and printing industries.  Great indoor plant for removing toxins or impurities. Spider plants are one of three plants NASA deems best at removing formaldahyde from the air.

Gerbera Daisy
(Gerbera Jamesonii)

This bright, flowering plant is effective at removing trichloroethylene, which you may bring home with your dry cleaning. It's also good for filtering out the benzene that comes with inks. Add one to your laundry room or bedroom - presuming you can give it lots of light. Not only do these gorgeous flowers remove benzene from the air, they’re known to improve sleep by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving off more oxygen over night.

Mother-in-Law's Tongue
Snake Plant
(Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii')

 

This plant is one of the best for filtering out formaldehyde, which is common in cleaning products, toilet paper, tissues and personal care products. Put one in your bathroom — it'll thrive with low light and steamy humid conditions while helping filter out air pollutants. Found by NASA to absorb nitrogen oxides and formaldahyde.

Golden Pothos
(Scindapsus aures)

Another powerful plant for tackling formaldehyde, this fast-growing vine will create a cascade of green from a hanging basket. Consider it for your garage since car exhaust is filled with formaldehyde. (Bonus: Golden pothos, also know as devil's ivy, stays green even when kept in the dark.)

Chrysanthemum
(Chrysantheium morifolium)

The colorful flowers of a mum can do a lot more than brighten a home office or living room; the blooms also help filter out benzene, which is commonly found in glue, paint, plastics and detergent. This plant loves bright light, and to encourage buds to open, you'll need to find a spot near an open window with direct sunlight.

 

Red-edged Dracaena
(Dracaena marginata)

The red edges of this easy dracaena bring a pop of color, and the shrub can grow to reach your ceiling. This plant is best for removing xylene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde, which can be introduced to indoor air through lacquers, varnishes and gasoline.

 

Weeping fig
(Ficus benjamina)

  A weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) in your living room can help filter out pollutants that typically accompany carpeting and furniture such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. Caring for a ficus can be tricky, but once you get the watering and light conditions right, they will last a long time.

Azalea
(Rhododendron simsii)

 

Bring this beautiful flowering shrub into your home to combat formaldehyde from sources such as plywood or foam insulation. Because azalea does best in cool areas around 60 to 65 degrees, it's a good option for improving indoor air in your basement if you can find a bright spot.

 

English Ivy
(Hedera helix)

A study found that the plant reduces airborne fecal-matter particles. It has also been shown to filter out formaldehyde found in some household cleaning products.

 

Warneck Dracaena
(Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii')

Combat pollutants associated with varnishes and oils with this dracaena. The Warneckii grows inside easily, even without direct sunlight. With striped leaves forming clusters atop a thin stem, this houseplant can be striking, especially if it reaches its potential height of 12 feet.

 

Chinese Evergreen
(Aglaonema crispum 'Deborah')

  This easy-to-care-for plant can help filter out a variety of air pollutants and begins to remove more toxins as time and exposure continues. Even with low light, it will produce blooms and red berries.

 

Bamboo Palm
(Chamaedorea sefritzii)

Also known as the reed palm, this small palm thrives in shady indoor spaces and often produces flowers and small berries. It tops the list of plants best for filtering out both benzene and trichloroethylene. It's also a good choice for placing around furniture that could be off-gassing formaldehyde. According to NASA, it is also said to act as a natural humidifier.

Heart Leaf Philodendron
(Philodendron oxycardium)

This climbing vine plant isn't a good option if you have kids or pets — it's toxic when eaten, but it's a workhorse for removing all kinds of VOCs. Philodendrons are particularly good at battling formaldehyde from sources like particleboard.

 

Peace Lily
(Spathiphyllum)

Shade and weekly watering are all the peace lily needs to survive and produce blooms. It topped NASA's list for removing all three of most common VOCs — formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. It can also combat toluene and xylene. Peace lilies could be called the “clean-all.” They’re often placed in bathrooms or laundry rooms because they’re known for removing mold spores.

Top 10 Air-Purifying Houseplants

 These plants filter hazardous chemicals from the air. Improve your air quality the natural way.

Most people spend a majority of their time indoors in increasingly well-sealed buildings surrounded by paints and other synthetic materials which off-gas noxious chemicals. These conditions are related to increasing incidences of asthma, allergies and cancer. Indeed, indoor air quality can be much more polluted than outdoor air, up to tenfold.

 

When “sick building syndrome” was first becoming recognized as a growing problem, NASA conducted a study of various houseplants and their effectiveness at filtering out hazardous chemicals from the air. Their findings? Many of the plants were highly effective at removing hazardous chemicals from the air. Not only that, but they can regulate humidity as well. They are also much less expensive than air purifying machines or humidifiers. 

 

The following are the top 10 indoor plants, as rated for ease of maintenance and effectiveness at purifying the air, summarized from NASA's studies. For more information, see B.C. Wolverton's “Eco-friendly Houseplants.”

 

1. Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens)

The best performer at removing airborne toxins, it also releases moisture into the air to regulate humidity, and is attractive to look at. It's also effective at removing salt from soil. It is easy to take care of and very resistant to pests. Enjoys semi-sun, temperatures between 65-75 degrees. 

One of the best air purifying plants for general air cleanliness.

2. Lady Palm (Rhapsis excelsa)

The lady palm is easy to care for because it is resistant to pests and grows slowly. Enjoys semi-sun and 60-70 degrees, and not less than 50 degrees during winter.

 

3. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

The bamboo palm can grow to 6 feet and is more resistant to pests than the areca palm. It is also more effective than the areca and the lady palm at removing airborne chemicals. Also an excellent humidifier. Enjoys semi-sun and 60-75 degree temperatures, and not less than 50 degrees.

 

4. Rubber Plant (Ficus robusta, shown above)

The rubber plant, named for the appearance of its leaves, is known for being a plant that requires little light and can tolerate lower temperatures than the previously mentioned plants. It is especially effective at removing the ubiquitous chemical formaldehyde from the air. It can grow to 8 feet. Enjoys semi-sun to semi-shade and 60-80 degree temperatures, and as low as 40 degrees for short periods.

 

5. Dracaena “Janet Craig” (Dracaena deremensis “Janet Craig”)

This plant is one of the most effective at removing trichloroethylene from the air, which is a chemical commonly emitted by photocopiers and similar devices. While the standard variety can grow to 10 feet, the smaller “Compacta” variety reaches only 1-3 feet and requires less maintenance. Enjoys semi-shade (even poorly lit areas) and 60-75 degree temperatures, and not less than 50 degrees. 

 

6. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English ivy grows well in hanging baskets. It can benefit from some time spent outdoors in the spring or summer. It is especially good at removing formaldehyde from the air. Enjoys semi-sun to semi-shade and 60-70 degrees temperatures, 50-60 degrees at night.

 

7. Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii)

The dwarf date palm can reach a maximum height of about 6 feet and grows slowly. It thrives without much light and can survive for decades. It is very effective at removing xylene from the air, which can come from caulking, adhesives, floor coverings, wall coverings, paints and particle board. Enjoys 60-75 degrees temperatures, but not below 50 degrees.

 

8. Ficus Alii (Ficus macleilandii)

You can find ficus alii grown three ways: one solitary plant, a bush (with multiple stems from one pot), and braided (with multiple stems intertwined). These plants may molt some of their leaves until they adapt to a new space. Enjoys 60-75 degree temperatures, and 55-68 at nights. 

 9. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata “Bostoniensis,” shown above)

The Boston fern grows lush foliage but does not flower. This plant is best grown in a hanging basket or on a pedestal. It is highly effective at removing chemicals and humidifying, but requires a bit more attention than the previous plants. It should be misted regularly. Enjoys 65-75 degrees, and 50-65 at night.

10. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)

I know, cute name, right? It boasts white, shell-like flowers reminscent of the more common calla lilly and is one of a handful of plants that successfully bloom indoors. Aesthetically pleasing, easy to take care of, and excellent at removing chemicals ... what more could you ask for? Enjoys 60-75 degrees temperatures, and 55-68 at night.

 

 

* For an average home of 2,000 square feet, the study recommends using at least fifteen samples of a good variety of these common houseplants to help improve air quality.
They also recommend that the plants be grown in six inch containers or larger.
(But starting out with one or two to get the hang of having plants is a great start- your collection of plants can then grow from there!) 

 

Also on MNN: 

• Indoor air quality: Be healthy at home

•  Plants poisonous to dogs

• Houseplants that are safe for pets

• What to do if your pet ingests a poisonous plant 

• http://www.mnn.com/health/healthy-spaces/stories/15-houseplants-to-improve-indoor-air-quality

 

1992 - 2010

1992 - 2010

Bright areas highly correlate with high population density – such as the densely populated cities like London, Paris and Rome.
-
Coastal areas are also more populated than inland regions, making the outline of Europe clearly visible in these night images.

Increased illumination in the second image is also an indicator of economic growth.  

For example, lights in Poland in 1992 appear dim, but are multiplied in the 2010 image.  Over that 18-year period, the country’s gross domestic product jumped some $377 billion.
 

This is evident in all areas pictured in the animation.
But by indicating population and economic growth, bright spots on these images also represent areas of high energy consumption, emissions and pollution – factors that greatly contribute to climate change. 

On 31 March, millions of people around the world will switch off their lights for 60 minutes in a demonstration against climate change and to promote a more sustainable lifestyle.

This sixth annual 'Earth Hour' is organized by the World Wildlife Fund and supported by ESA. 

You Might Be a Schoolteacher if...

The Evolution

of a Math Problem

1950:
A lumberjack sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of this price. 
* What is his profit?

 

1960    (traditional math):
A lumberjack sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5 of this price, or in other words $80. 
* What is his profit?

 

1970    (new math):
A lumberjack exchanges a set L of lumber for a set M of money. The cardinality of set M is 100, and each element is worth $1. Make 100 dots representing the elements of set M. The set C is a subset of set M, of cardinality 80. 
* What is the cardinality of the set P of profits, if P is the difference set MC?

 

1980    (equal opportunity math):
A lumberjack sells a truckload of wood for $100. His or her cost of production is $80, and his or her profit is $20. 
* Your assignment: Underline the number 20.

 

1990 (outcome based education):
By cutting down beautiful forest trees, a lumber-person makes $20. What do you think of his way of making a living?
* In your group, discuss how the forest birds and squirrels feel, and write an essay about it.

 

1995    (entrepreneurial math):
By laying off 402 of its lumberjacks, a company improves its stock price from $80 to $100. 
* How much capital gain per share does the CEO make by exercising his stock options at $80? Assume capital gains are no longer taxed, because this encourages investment.

 

1998    (motivational math):
A logging company exports its wood-finishing jobs to its Indonesian subsidiary and lays off the corresponding half of its US workers (the higher-paid half). It clear-cuts 95% of the forest, leaving the rest for the spotted owl, and lays off all its remaining US workers. It tells the workers that the spotted owl is responsible for the absence of fellable trees and lobbies Congress for exemption from the Endangered Species Act. Congress instead exempts the company from all federal regulation. 
* What is the return on investment of the lobbying?

You Might Be a Schoolteacher if...

1. You want to slap the next person who says, "Must be nice to work from 8 to 3 and have your summers free!"
2. You have no time for a life from August to June.
3. when out in public you feel the urge to talk to strange children and correct their behavior.
4. You refer to adults as "boys and girls."
5. You encourage your spouse by telling them they are a "good helper."
6. You've ever had your profession slammed by someone who would never dream of doing your job.
7.  
8.  Meeting a child's parents instantly answers the question, "Why is this kid like this?"
9. You believe "extremely annoying" should have its own box on the report card.
10. You know hundred good reasons for being late.
11. You don't want children of your own because there isn't a name you can hear that wouldn't elevate your blood pressure.

*
ART

The teacher brings a statue of Venus into class and asks, "What do you like best about it, class? Let's start with you, Robert."
"The artwork," says Robert.
"Very good. And you, Peter?"
"Her tits!" says Peter.
"Peter, get out! Go stand in the hall," responds the teacher with disgust. "And you, Johnny?"
"I'm leaving, teacher, I'm leaving..."
 

*

*

8 Tips For Teachers

1. Don’t tell the student “slow down” or “ just relax.”

2. Don’t complete words for the student or talk for him or her.

3. Help all members of the class learn to take turns talking and listening. All students — and especially those who stutter — find it much easier to talk when there are few interruptions and they have the listener’s attention.

4. Expect the same quality and quantity of work from the student who stutters as the one who doesn’t.

5. Speak with the student in an unhurried way, pausing frequently.

6. Convey that you are listening to the content of the message, not how it is said.

7. Have a one-on-one conversation with the student who stutters about needed accommodations in the classroom. Respect the student’s needs, but do not be enabling.

8. Don’t make stuttering something to be ashamed of. Talk about stuttering just like any other matter.

Compiled by Lisa Scott, Ph.D., The Florida State University

 

*

Dog 🐕 Never Feed 🛑 Some Foods

10 Treats to 

Never Feed Your Dog

Everyone loves to give their pets treats, but what's great on your plate might be dangerous for your dog. So here are 10 foods you should never feed your dog, no matter how nicely he asks.

Chocolate 🍫

Is chocolate really bad for dogs, as many pet owners think?

Yes, says Dr. Marty Becker, author of "Chicken Soup for the Pet-Lovers Soul."

"But I hate to see people worry so much," he says. "A 10-pound dog has to eat the equivalent of an entire milk chocolate bar to be in any real danger."

Dark chocolate and baker's chocolate are more hazardous, as they contain high levels of the offending substance, theobromine. It can cause excessive thirst, irregular heart beat, seizures, and even death.

Coffee ☕

Some dogs like coffee, and some otherwise responsible dog owners think it's cute to allow their dog to finish the last inch of a cold Starbucks. But caffeine, whether in coffee or soda, can be dangerous for a canine. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors, according to WebMD.

Alcohol 🍺

Give a dog alcohol? It happens, says Dr. Johnson.

"Some people do it maliciously, but sometimes, at a party, a dog will walk around lapping up the spilled beer," he says.

Booze has the same effect on your dog's liver and brain as it does on yours - only your dog's organs are smaller and thus more sensitive. Depending on the type of alcohol and the size of the dog, alcohol can cause difficult breathing, coma and even death.

Ice Cream 🍦
Just like some humans, many dogs have lactose intolerance. But even if your dog is okay with milk, it's not a good idea to give him a lot of sugar.
You've heard about the epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes in America? Dogs mirror these problems.
Case in point: Up to 35 percent of American dogs are overweight, says Dr. Tony Johnson, clinical assistant professor of emergency veterinary medicine at Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine.

(For the Summer, instead of IceCream I give my Dog couple of spoonful of Cold Yogurt - Plain, Fat Free - ProBiotic)

Gum

Some people like to give dogs chewing gum. Don't be one of them. If the gum (or candy) is sweetened with xylitol, it could cause liver failure, says Dr. Becker.

According to WebMD, symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination. Eventually, your dog may have seizures.

Grapes and Raisins 🍇

What could seem more harmless than grapes? They're a perfect natural snack for children, and some dogs love them. Yet even small amounts can cause lethargy, depression, and kidney failure. Vomiting and hyperactivity are early signs of grape poisoning.

Macadamia Nuts 🥜

 "People go on vacations and they bring back macadamia cookies and things like that, and they give them to their dog," says Dr. Becker.

It seems like a harmless little treat, but he says macadamia nuts top the list of foods that can devastate dogs. Just a few can cause muscle tremors, vomiting, fever, and rapid heart rate.

"I know a dog that was euthanized for rear leg paralysis after eating macadamias," says Becker. "But the condition corrects itself over time with supportive care."

Salty Food  🧂

It's fun to share salty snacks like chips and fries, but don't share too much with your dog. High doses of salt can cause tremors, high temperature, seizures, and even death.

"One potato chip or treat isn't likely to cause a problem," says Dr. Johnson.

The one exception? Dogs with heart trouble should avoid salt completely.

Onion 🧅

How can onions be bad for dogs? They are, though, whether they're eaten cooked, raw, or in onion powder. In large quantities, they can destroy a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia severe enough to require a blood transfusion, says Dr. Johnson.

With all of the pet food scares out there, many people are making food for their dogs, sometimes including onions and garlic (which is also not so great for dogs.)

Avocado 🥑

Avocado may be good for humans but bad, bad, bad for dogs. No matter how famous you are for your homemade guacamole, the avocado in it contains a stomach-upsetting substance called persin.

If you have a plant-chewer on your hands, keep him away from avocado plants as well-persin is also in the leaves.