Western Carolina University

About: Western Carolina University is a education organization based out in Cullowhee, North Carolina, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Poison control. The organization has 1660 authors who have published 3192 publications receiving 69454 citations.

Modeling Particle Emissions from Three-Dimensional Printing with Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene Polymer Filament.

Abstract: An eddy diffusion model using data from a desktop three-dimensioanl (3D) printer was developed under laboratory conditions and then coupled with Monte Carlo analysis to estimate the potential range of particulate concentrations in and around various industrial-size 3D printers, in this case large additive manufacturing processes using acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene polymer feedstock. The model employed mass emission estimates determined from thermal gravimetric analysis and printer enclosure particle loss rates. Other model inputs included ranging terms for extrusion rate, temperature, print time, source-to-receiver distance, printer positions, particle size fraction, and environmental diffusivity estimates based on air changes per hour. Monte Carlo analysis bracketed measured environmental particulate concentrations associated with large-scale additive manufacturing processes (3D printing). Statistically, there was no difference between the average near-field particle concentrations measured and that of the model-derived average. However, the model began to vary more statistically, if not practically, from air-monitoring results in the far field. Diffusivity and extrusion rate emerged as the two most important variables in predicting environmental concentrations. This model can be used to estimate air concentrations over a range of varying conditions, such as one might employ in a "what if" type of evaluation to estimate employee exposure, for example, as a compliance effort with OSHA standard 29 CFR Part 1910.132, requiring a formal hazard assessment for work environments as a "before exposure" effort to determine if respiratory protection is needed.

Atlantic Empires of France and Spain: Louisbourg and Havana, 1700-1763

Abstract: Atlantic Empires of France and Spain is a comparative study of the colonies of Cape Breton and Cuba within their imperial systems and within the Atlantic world in general. John McNeill examines the importance of these colonies fo the French and Spanish empires, particularly in light of Britain's rise to dominance among European imperial powers. McNeil covers French and Spanish economic and military policy toward the colonies, as well as the empires' actual economic and military roles. Particular colonial trades -- codfish in Cape Breton and sugar and tobacco in Cuba -- were important to the economies of the mother countries. Both colonies proved to be highly profitable and comparatively inexpensive to defend, govern, and maintain, but, as McNeill shows, managing them from a distance was not without problems. Smuggling was widespread throughout the colonies, although this illegal trading did not undermine the overall commercial success of the systems. In addition, because the preferred method of profiteering from a rival's empire was to seize cargo at critical points on the high seas, the imperial powers faced the continual threat of foreign attacks on their trade ships. McNeill also emphasizes the role of geography, climate, ecosystems, and disease patterns in thwarting Spanish and French ambitions in the New World. Using archival research, McNeill illuminates the character of the Atlantic world of the eighteenth century by offering information on the economy and defense of two colonies. He also delineates the importance of overseas holdings to European states and the problems of imperial management. Originally published in 1985. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.

Portfolio Assessment: Opportunities and Challenges:

Abstract: Describes portfolio assessment use in special education, provides recommendations, and discusses future directions

A focus on natural supports in postsecondary education for students with intellectual disabilities at Western Carolina University

Abstract: Postsecondary education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities (ID) have increased over the past 40 years. Although programs vary, some have been designed to provide a fully inclusive learning experience. The University Participant (UP) Program at Western Carolina University (WCU) is a fully inclusive program where participants live in campus residence halls, audit classes, work in internships on campus, and participate in a wide variety of on-campus activities. An important part of the UP program is the student volunteers serving as natural supports or individuals providing necessary assistance in typical environments for UP Program participants throughout the day. This paper describes how the WCU UP Program uses natural supports to facilitate inclusive opportunities, responsibilities, recruitment, training, coaching, coordination, scheduling, and evaluation of work performance. We conclude with benefits of having undergraduate students serve as natural supports in postsecondary education programs.