About the Cover: As we discussed illustrations for the articles in this issue, it seemed natural to build a mechanical person for the article on biomedical engineering. The call went out for anyone with an Erector set and Wally Swink of the Office of Sponsored Programs found his 50th anniversary Erector set — now almost 40 years old. “What do you need it for?” he asked. We told him. A few days later, Wally introduced us to the four-foot-high, happy metal man. Not exactly anatomically correct since he/she/it had wheels instead of feet, but Wally called his creation “he.” He was beautiful — irresistible. Still is. Bubba — as he’s been named — now stands in the Swink living room with arms full of Virginia Tech Research magazines.
In this issue:
From wired to unwired: New uses of radio spectrum will take high-speed Internet — and more — where no fiber has gone before
Web project brings Jamestown to life
Violent movies can increase violent responses
Biomedical engineers maintain the ultimate machine — the human body
Planting trees between a rock and a hard place
If Bossy eats right, premium ice cream will be health food
Coping and caring — not packaging — defines ‘family’
The best things in life aren’t things
Students showcase outstanding research
Microscopes
- A 25-year-old book may help modern Middle Eastern officials prevent and resolve conflict
- Roadside memorials — paying attention to sudden loss
- Rental housing: Low-income families losing ground
