More than 3 million women give birth in the U.S. every year. But physicians still know little about the best ways to manage the crucial second stage of labor, which is hardest physically on mothers and babies. Researchers at the School of Medicine received an $8.7 million grant to study how best to manage this stage.

Academic institutions have a unique mix of knowledge and passion that enables them to tackle complex issues. Hosted by the McDonnell International Scholars Academy, global academic, policy and corporate leaders will meet here from today through Sunday, Oct. 19. They will focus on how research universities can join forces to address this century’s critical problems.

Henry S. Webber, the university’s executive vice chancellor for administration, helped commemorate Associated General Contractors’ annual Build St. Louis Week Oct. 8. He spoke at an event at the Brown School expansion site. The week recognizes local construction’s impact on St. Louis’ economic well-being.

​Top national and local designers will showcase their work at runway shows and parties across the region. Fashion Week closes Saturday, Oct. 18, with the 2014 Midwest Fashion Conference​ at Washington University.