Abstract: Modular frames for instructional use that provide secure mounts for geometric solids are presented. Some contemplated modular frames can be assembled into three dimensional modular devices and are particularly suitable for instructional purposes. Modular devices comprising two or more frames could be coupled via a clip in two or more different configurations. Containers including conductive material and configured to provide a Faraday cage around their contents are also provided.

Abstract: A fluid sampling unit includes a housing and a shutoff valve adapted to selectively permit and restrict fluid flow to a fluid line disposed within an internal cavity of the housing. An electrically-actuated valve is disposed within the housing downstream from, and in fluid communication with, the shutoff valve. A first metallic line including copper is disposed within the housing in fluid communication with and between the shutoff valve and the electrically-actuated valve. A second metallic line including lead is disposed within the housing in fluid communication with and between the shutoff valve and the electrically-actuated valve. A control unit includes a controller adapted to selectively actuate the electrically-actuated valve.

Abstract: A personal intuition-based cognitive assistant system includes one or more components which may be worn by a user as a camera-headset, one or more sensors that capture an intuitive state of the user, a camera that capture videos, a processor that provides a cognitive navigating map for the captured videos based on the captured intuitive states of the user, and an inputter that input notes, comments to the videos linked by cognitive navigating map, and a memory to store all components of the information with links and identified cognitive map.

Abstract: A method for operating a user device includes playing a media content on a screen, detecting a user input for lowering a volume of the media content, and decreasing the volume of the media content in response to the user input, determining whether a user input enters a play control zone after the detection of the user input for lowering the volume, and performing a pause of the media content in response to the user input entering the play control zone. A user device includes a touch screen configured to receive a user input for controlling a volume of the media content, and a controller configured to decrease the volume of the media content in response to a user input for decreasing a volume during playing of the media content, and perform a pause of the media content when the user input enters a play control zone.

Abstract: A tangible computer-readable storage device storing computer-executable program instructions that generate a user interface for displaying workflow information associated with a tissue specimen in a pathology laboratory. The program instructions may be configured to perform a method including displaying a virtual laboratory component representing a physical pathology laboratory having one or more laboratory stations for processing the tissue specimen, wherein the tissue specimen is processed by the one or more laboratory stations according to a workflow, and displaying a specimen indicator that indicates a current specimen state based on a current relationship of the tissue specimen to the workflow.

Abstract: Systems and methods for use in playing biotic games having a biologically active material as a component. Various games that provide for one or more human players to interact with biologically active materials are disclosed. The game apparatus includes a replaceable cartridge having a chamber in which a biologically active component such as a single-celled organism or a biologically active compound is contained. A stimulus controller accepts instructions from a human user and provides a stimulus to the biologically active component. A response receiver accepts a signal indicative of a response of the biologically active component. A display is provided to display to the user information indicative of the response of the biologically active component, and a game score. A computer-based game controller includes a set of pre-defined rules of play that define a game and that comprise pre-defined rules of scoring for the game.

Abstract: An educational monument, comprising a designated geographical area accessible to a general public, a first structure having a first face positioned to receive a solar light beam, an aperture formed through the first structure for projecting the light beam at predetermined times and, a second structure positioned to receive the light beam at a first predetermined time. A third structure positioned to receive the light beam at a second predetermined time. Wherein a transition of the light beam reflects a change in the seasons and an alignment of Earth illustrating a physical representation of the transition at a plurality of successive predetermined times, each respective predetermined time being the same hour on a different day. Wherein a plurality of ellipses are scaled from the receiving wall, accurately representing the scaled orbit of the planets.

Abstract: A tridimensional modeling apparatus, system and kit is for representing an exploration network. The apparatus, system and kit include a transparent hollow cube with six plane surfaces for representing an enclosed volume, a plurality of perforations on at least two of the six plane surfaces and indicia around each opening for marking polar coordinates and orientation. The apparatus, system and kit further include a plurality of transparent rods for representing exploration channels. The plurality of perforations on the cube are arranged for receiving rods for tridimensional modeling of the exploration network and each rod is inserted into an opening with an angle and a depth, thereby resulting in a visual representation of the exploration network within the represented volume.

Abstract: An interactive educational system for elementary school age children is provided. There is a base module having a housing that has an outer configuration and may take a variety of shapes. The housing includes retaining sockets used to retain arms, legs, or other accessories or to the system. The base module includes a transceiver, a group of one or more sensors and effectors, control circuitry that operates the system, and a power supply which powers the module. Data from the sensors and effectors is displayed on the video display and passed wireless to a smart device hosting an interactive application. The base module has a wireless transceiver for receiving control data from the smart device and sending sensor/effector data and base module state information to the smart device. The sensor group includes various sensors such as a temperature sensor, a light sensor and an accelerometer.

Abstract: A training system in which some parts of an instrument are virtualized while other parts are physical. Typically, those parts that are physical are those whose use requires a minimum level of user technique to obtain optimum results. An example of a physical component is a sample injection syringe. Those parts of an instrument that are virtualized are those whose operations are independent of user technique or for which user technique is largely the same in virtualized or physical forms. Examples of virtualized components may include a start button, a detector or a heater.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the dynamic generation of one or more scientific problems derived from a primary scientific problem is disclosed. In one embodiment, a computerized device is configured to receive an input of a primary scientific problem comprising a set of variable parameters and at least one physical constraint, and generates at least one related scientific problem by varying the parameter within the limitations of the physical constraint. In an embodiment the primary scientific problem has an associated figure that is dynamically modified for the related scientific problem. Optionally, an answer generator is disclosed that creates solution sets and multiple response solutions for the derived scientific problem. Optionally, a natural language processor and set of rules for validating the derived scientific problem may also be used in conjunction with the disclosed computerized device. In one embodiment, the related scientific problems are derived from user interest or needs.

Abstract: A sensor aided ball as a tool to teach math and science. The ball may include various sensors such as inertial, pressure, magnetic, and temperature sensors. Users can run experiments and then view the results on a computer, tablet, or phone. Measurements such as acceleration, angular rate, velocity, position, heading, pressure, and temperature can be displayed. The ball may be used within an associated system or method.

Abstract: A tridimensional modeling apparatus, system and kit is for representing an exploration network. The apparatus, system and kit include a transparent hollow cube with six plane surfaces for representing an enclosed volume, a plurality of perforations on at least two of the six plane surfaces and indicia around each opening for marking polar coordinates and orientation. The apparatus, system and kit further include a plurality of transparent rods for representing exploration channels. The plurality of perforations on the cube are arranged for receiving rods for tridimensional modeling of the exploration network and each rod is inserted into an opening with an angle and a depth, thereby resulting in a visual representation of the exploration network within the represented volume.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for a soil box experiment making a shape of a variable landslide surface. The apparatus for the soil box experiment making the shape of the variable landslide surface includes a soil box for realizing a slope on which landslide occurs, the soil box being inclinedly disposed and having an opened upper portion to accommodate soil therein, a base member disposed under the soil box to support the soil box, and a shape changing unit for changing a shape of a bottom surface of the soil box.

Abstract: Provided herein are construction kits and methods of using the construction kits. The construction kit comprises one or more connector elements and one or more elongate members. Each connector element has a substantially regular prismatic shape and each face of each connector element has a substantially centrally-located opening located thereon to receive an end of an elongate member therein or therethrough. To assist with learning, each connector and rod of the kit can be assigned variable values depending on the educational level of a user. For example, a lower grade may have a coloured elongate member with an integer value, whereas that same coloured elongate member may have a fractional value for a higher grade.

Abstract: A computerized method of providing patient treatment values in real time, including the steps of providing a computer database having a plurality of predetermined patient selection criteria, patient condition categories, and drug selection, dosing values and related information, and providing an input device in communication with the computer database for inputting one or more of the patient selection criteria, patient condition categories and drug selection and dosing values and related information. A computer display in communication with the computer database and the input device is provided for displaying precalculated dosing values based on one or more inputted patient selection criteria, patient condition categories and dosing values and related information. One or more of the patient selection criteria, patient condition categories and treatment type is input by the input device into the computerized database provided in step (a) and associating a unique identifier with the inputted information.

Abstract: A system for creating the learning organizational tool known as a concept map to thereby facilitate learning includes a manipulation-sensing device with a wireless data transceiver, an information integration platform, and a data processing device. The wireless manipulating-sensing device allows users to physically manipulate the concept map and then transmit/receive data related to the results of the physical manipulation via a wireless network. The wireless manipulation-sensing device includes a plurality of conceptual modules for recording data in the process of learning a concept map, a plurality of connecting modules for recording data of the connection relations between the conceptual modules, and a plurality of connecting wires connected between the plurality of conceptual modules and the plurality of connecting modules to form connection relations therebetween.

Abstract: A method is provided for user speech performance evaluation with respect to a reference performance for which a phoneme mark-up is available. The method includes capturing input speech from the user and formatting it as frames. For a respective frame of the input speech, the method generates probability values for a plurality of phonemes, generates a probability value for a phoneme class based upon the generated probability values for a plurality of phonemes belonging to that phoneme class. For a plurality of frames of the input speech, the method further includes averaging the phoneme class probability values corresponding to the plurality of frames of the input speech. The method also includes calculating a user speech performance score based upon the average.

Abstract: A solvent that reversibly converts from a hydrophobic liquid form to hydrophilic liquid form upon contact with water and a selected trigger, e.g., contact with CO2, is described. The hydrophilic liquid form is readily converted back to the hydrophobic liquid form and water. The hydrophobic liquid is an amidine or amine. The hydrophilic liquid form comprises an amidinium salt or an ammonium salt.

Abstract: An educational gaming device for learning evolutionism comprises a display device, a storage device and an operation unit. The storage device stores at least one scene and a plurality of corresponding representative creatures. The storage device and the display device are coupled to the operation unit. The operation unit selects at least two creatures from the representative creatures to respectively function as at least one player character and at least one non-player character. The operation unit drives the display device to show the process of interactivity and evolution of the player character and the non-player character in the scene. The game of the present invention features clear rules, instant feedbacks and competitions, and has much more interaction with the users than common instructional activities or common educational animations.

Abstract: A system is provided for providing patient treatment values in real-time, including: a database module comprising a database having a plurality of predetermined categories of patient selection criteria, patient condition categories, treatment types and precalculated treatment doses based on the predetermined categories and patient selection criteria; an input module in communication with the database module for inputting one or more of patient selection criteria, patient condition categories and treatment type at time of patient treatment; and a display module in communication with the database module and the input module for displaying a precalculated treatment dose based on one or more inputted patient selection criteria, patient condition categories and treatment type at time of patient treatment.

Abstract: A method and system that optimizes the delivery of training materials to an organization that seeks to implement an environmental management system (EMS) meeting the requirements of a standard (such as ISO 14001-2004). The system generates an optimized set of training materials for an organization based on two analyses. The system presents gap analysis questions pertaining to the elements of the standard. Responses received to the gap analysis questions are used to calculate a gap analysis score with respect to each of the elements. The system also presents aspects and impacts questions in a cascaded fashion, meaning that certain aspects and impacts questions are presented based at least in part on responses received to previous aspects and impacts questions. The system generates optimized training materials for the organization by filtering a set of training modules based on the gap analysis scores and the aspects and impacts responses.

Abstract: A multi-dimensional structure 100 is disclosed herein. In a first embodiment, the multi-dimensional structure is configurable as a Pentachoron structure 101 having a plurality of independent geometric structures 200,300,400. Each geometric structure is defined by a number of vertices A1,A2,B1,B2,C1,C2,D1,D2,E1,E2 cooperating with respective elongate members 202,302,402. The multi-dimensional structure 100 also comprises a plurality of structural vertices A1+A2, B1+B2, C1+C2, D1+D2, E1+E2, with each structural vertex comprising at least two vertices A1,A2,B1,B2,C1,C2,D1,D2,E1,E2 from respective geometric structures 200,300,400 movably connected together.

Abstract: A wireless sensor probe is used for performing experiments in an interactive laboratory. The probe may include a plurality of sensors for collecting experimental data during an experiment and a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting the collected data to a receiver module. The receiver module is adapted for transferring the data to a computer where a software component may process the data for presentation of the resultant processed data on a display substantially in real-time.

Abstract: Interactive electronic book operating systems and methods for displaying and allowing customization of content of scientific, engineering and other technical and professional digital books. The display screen can include icons for forward and backward page turning, generating of dynamic indexing and tables of contents, bookmarking, color themes, floating pages, highlighting, adding sticky notes, hiding selected content on the pages, quizzing the reader, lecturing the reader, tutoring the reader, showing the reader additional designs and practical relevance, and allowing the instructor to generate uniform seed numbers for problems and designs and/or allowing the instructor to generate random seed values for problems and designs.

Abstract: In an embodiment, the claimed invention is a device to for optical presentation of magnetic flux. A ferromagnetic colloidal mixture is substantially evenly dispersed and sealed between two optically transmissive lenses. At least one magnetic source is juxtaposed about the viewer. A light source is positioned to project through the mixture, the light interacting with the mixture to create the presentation of magnetic flux. The viewer is optionally positioned within a housing. In another embodiment, the invention is a method of using the viewer to view a presentation of magnetic flux when light interacts with the mixture.

Abstract: A planting toy kit is composed of hydrophobic fine sand, a phosphate solution and a tree. In use, the hydrophobic fine sand is first made into a mound or place in a proper container. Then a well is made in the sand mound to receive the phosphate solution. The phosphate solution forms a pool marvelously instead of mixing with the hydrophobic fine sand. The tree is afterward planted in the phosphate solution. As the phosphate solution is slowly absorbed by the tree, the phosphate solution gradually crystallizes and gives a snowy appearance to the tree. The planting toy kit breaks the stereotype that sand mixes with water so as to be not only educational for it allows users to experience the pleasure of tree planting and watering, but also amusing for it shows an exterior transformation of the tree.

Abstract: A modular educational robotics design and experimentation system is disclosed herein. The disclosed system includes a chassis onto which a plurality of components can be mounted. Components can be logical components, sensors, output components such as motors, or other kinds of components. In various embodiments, components can be electrically connected to one another by wires that may have varying diameters and connection technologies depending on the contemplated age of the users of the system. The wires may also include a feature to indicate when they are connected in an allowable fashion. In addition, components may be mechanically connected to one another using proprietary connector technology in which uprights having stems with a particular shape can be tightened to the chassis using thumbscrews. The disclosed system advantageously enables students of varying ages to experiment with robotics concepts using modules optimized for certain tasks and ages of users.

Abstract: Remotely controlled and miniature biomimetic robotic fish for use as a scientific and educational tool, flexible and robust enough to be used for education from kindergarten through college level curricula, and including modular features that allow students to interact with the design of the robot based on observation of nature.

Abstract: A portable model and methods for simulating water treatment processes are presented. Included are a body of untreated drinking water, simulated sources of wastewater, and simulated drinking and wastewater treatment plants. In the simulated drinking water treatment plant, water is treated and stored for distribution though a simulated pipeline system. In the simulated wastewater treatment plant, simulated wastewater is filtered, settled, clarified, disinfected and discharged. The simulated wastewater may be transferred to the simulated wastewater treatment plant through a simulated sewage pipeline network. Simulated biosolids as a result of the wastewater treatment process may be stored or applied to land. The model may also simulate a storm drain system that diverts storm water to a water source or to the wastewater treatment plant. The materials used to simulate the various aspects and components are preferably non-toxic, non-poisonous and biodegradable in order to facilitate use with children and clean up.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for collecting, aggregating, and analyzing data associated with the performance of systems. Energy systems, specifically renewable energy generation systems, are used as examples. The aggregated data serve as the basis for a variety of services that facilitate the adoption and deployment of these systems. Services are provided that aid in enhancing energy educational activities. The services represent the quantity of energy generation as energy demands that the students may appreciate. Furthermore, the services are interactive and may allow the students to change System Parameters so that they more fully understand the influence of these parameters on the energy generation efficiency.

Abstract: A method and system that optimizes the delivery of training materials to an organization that seeks to implement an environmental management system (EMS) meeting the requirements of a standard (such as ISO 14001-2004). The system generates an optimized set of training materials for an organization based on two analyses. The system presents gap analysis questions pertaining to the elements of the standard. Responses received to the gap analysis questions are used to calculate a gap analysis score with respect to each of the elements. The system also presents aspects and impacts questions in a cascaded fashion, meaning that certain aspects and impacts questions are presented based at least in part on responses received to previous aspects and impacts questions. The system generates optimized training materials for the organization by filtering a set of training modules based on the gap analysis scores and the aspects and impacts responses.

Abstract: This invention is intended to improve immersive simulation techniques. The integration of five components constitutes a new method creating an educational experience that will improve student levels of interest and performance in STEM and other subjects. The five components are: Physical hardware (representing real or simulated items), Facilities and supporting staff (representing themselves or facsimiles of non-contemporary facilities and staff) Media in various forms and formats including: advertising, news, music, film or other types produced for either broadcast or internet outlet. Dramatic stories that cohesively integrate items 1, 2 and 3 to enhance the educational experience. Linking technologies that enable the control and transmission of data and other information between the physical hardware and applicable personnel.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in conducting an eruption reaction are disclosed. The apparatus includes a catalytic solids container with a mouth and fluid egress opening and a trigger device or mechanism that allows for the controlled release of a catalytic solid into an eruptible fluid. The catalytic solids container may be adapted to be coupled to a container for an eruptible fluid.

Abstract: An improved simulator for an analytical instrument that provides the student with an experience similar to that of operating the actual instrument. In one preferred embodiment, the invention combines real functionality and simulated functionality where at least one function of the analytical instrument is real. In another preferred embodiment, the invention combines a functional first instrument along with a simulation of a second instrument, the simulation including both hardware with limited functionality and software that simulates the output of a functional instrument to create a teaching aid for use in classrooms and teaching laboratories.

Abstract: A device and method for generating a visible vortex for display or educational purposes. A container houses a two-phase fluidic system of a primary fluid, such as water, and a secondary fluid such as silicone fluid carrying a powder which has no affinity for the primary fluid. The two-phase fluidic system may be stirred using a stir bar or pump to generate the vortex.

Abstract: The present invention provides physicians access to formulary data as well as important clinical and practice management information at the point of care on easy-to-use handheld electronic devices. The invention also provides a method for distributing medical data to medical personnel. The method comprises the steps of storing medical data in a database and periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities. The invention also provides a computer readable memory storing executable instructions for execution by a computer system such that the computer system functions in a specified manner. The instructions comprise instructions for storing medical data in a database, and instructions for periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities.

Abstract: The open frame form of the polyhedron-shaped game structures are disclosed for playing a three-dimensional racing game. A variety of spacers and polyhedron shapes are introduced to configure the shape of the present invention. The preferred embodiment of the game structure is constructed with cubic frame and orbital routes. Each player has single set of game pieces and advances each game piece on the game structure according to the number shown on the die. The players are challenged to race and capture the opponent's game pieces according to their strategic plan. After orbiting the game structure, the first player who races back all of his or her game pieces to the predetermined finish point becomes the winner.

Abstract: The present invention is a system, method that uses a cost-effective, portable, combination unit that can function as an incubator, dehydrator, and micro-propagation apparatus in the school classroom, at home, in an industrial setting, in a homeland security setting, in a forensic environment, and in the field for culturing, growing, blooming, propagating, and micro-propagating of various plants. In addition, the combination science unit can be use with bio-tissue.

Abstract: A learning kit having a literary component that includes at least one story, wherein the story has described therein a problem; an experimental component wherein the problem posed in the story is quantitatively and/or qualitatively analyzed using experimental hardware and procedures provided in the kit; and a means for verifying successful completion of the experiments wherein successful completion of the experiments is required in order to progress the story. In one embodiment, the means for verifying successful completion of the experiments is a written letter or document that that is opened after the experiments are completed to verify the results. The letter or other printed document includes printed matter to progress the story. In another embodiment the means for verifying successful completion of the experiments is digitally recorded media recorded on digital media such as a compact disk, DVD or a remotely accessible computer.

Abstract: Teaching models that use luminescent paint to paint inscriptions on the surface of the model which can be read by using black light. By use of the model so modified, the model can be used as a teaching tool in an educational instruction method in which the kinesthetic multiple intelligence of the student is enhanced since the student is in control of the timing of the feedback from the model.

Abstract: A composition is formulated with generally regarded as safe (GRAS) ingredients for use as a non-radio-active simulant of radiological contamination such as fallout from a nuclear explosion, particulate from a radiological dispersal device, or contamination from operation of nuclear facilities. The compositions can be used for training exercises, testing, and research studies, and they can be applied safely to human skin. They include an ultraviolet (UV)-excited fluorescent ingredient that makes possible visible viewing of the simulants when illuminated by UV light. The chemical simulants have good fidelity with the physical properties of contamination, for example, adhesion, particle size, electrostatic charging, and response to decontamination technologies such as washing and vacuuming.

Abstract: An apparatus for amusing and edifying a plurality of children and of creating a party-atmosphere includes a plurality of components in a box for retail and an instruction manual that instructs at least one adult supervisor how to safely manage the plurality of children while each child uses the contents, and possibly other household items, to create an event, and wherein the event demonstrates a scientific principle or law. A method for creating a science party is also disclosed. Components are provided in the box along with complementary instructions for creating a safe environment for the plurality of children to experience the party.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in conducting an eruption reaction are disclosed. The apparatus includes a catalytic solids container with a mouth and fluid egress opening and a trigger device or mechanism that allows for the controlled release of a catalytic solid into an eruptible fluid. The catalytic solids container may be adapted to be coupled to a container for an eruptible fluid.

Abstract: In the evaluation apparatus of the present invention, there are formed a plurality of minute channels having a cross-sectional area of not more than 1 mm2, one end of each of these channels joins in at a single meeting point and, when liquids are put into one or more of the liquid reservoirs in a higher position over any other liquid reservoir, the liquids flow down in the channels by gravity. Therefore, a scientific phenomenon, such as the diffusion of molecules, can be qualitatively observed. Furthermore, the apparatus provides a sufficient level of accuracy to enable the user to watch various phenomena involved in advanced technology, and uses no large quantity of chemicals or the like, which means little load on the environment.

Abstract: In the scientific phenomena evaluation device of the present invention, a plurality of elongated grooves each having a cross-sectional area of not more than 1 mm2 are formed, an end of each of the plurality of flow passages joins in at one meeting point and furthermore, a liquid absorption device is provided. Therefore, it is possible to qualitatively observe scientific phenomena, such as the dispersion phenomena of molecules. Also, accuracies sufficient for experiencing high technologies, for example, various phenomena such as the diffusion phenomenon of a liquid, heat transfer phenomenon of a liquid, mixing phenomenon of liquids and chemical reactions of a liquid that occur in this fine flow passage are obtained, consumption of chemical agents and the like is small and environmental burdens are small. Therefore, this evaluation device of scientific phenomena is appropriate as an educational tool for scientific experiments.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed that provides a learning environment useful for teaching students about the structure, characteristics, and behavior of a complex system. The learning experience is centered around a quantitative model-based simulation, whose state is updated according to defined algorithms with each successive execution of the model. The learning environment provides the student with user-friendly means for reviewing state information and choosing actions and/or “instrument” values. Several design strategies are combined and implemented to manage the student's cognitive load and engender insights. The student may partially delegate control to automated agents, obtain qualitative descriptions of changes and of model entities, and access algorithmic details that explain causes and effects. The designer can vary simulation behaviors in different problem scenarios to achieve teaching objectives.

Abstract: An evaluation apparatus of scientific phenomena, including: a base plate of a plate-like body on whose surface is formed an elongated groove having a transversely cross-sectional area of not more than 1 mm2; and a cover plate that is disposed on a surface of the base plate in close contact therewith and forms a fine flow passage on the base plate by covering the elongated groove, wherein scientific phenomena in the fine flow passage can be visually recognized.

Abstract: A sliding vibration-resisting building model includes a vibration machine having a vibration table provided thereon with a model base. Two vibration-resisting devices are fixed on the model base, and a model chassis is secured on the two vibration-resisting devices and a model testing structure is assembled on the model chassis. The vibration-resisting devices are able to lower the vibration of the model testing structure when the vibration machine carries out simulating earthquakes and reduce the energy received by the structure, able to elevate the vibration resistant strength of buildings.

Abstract: A method of teaching recycling to children using a plush toy body shell having a closeable opening into an interior portion of the plush toy body shell is disclosed. In a first step recyclable material is provided. In a second step, the child is instructed to insert the recyclable material in the interior portion of the plush toy body shell until the plush toy body shell is filled with recyclable material. In a third step, the child is instructed to close the opening of the plush toy body shell to make a complete stuffed toy.