And then there was light

light through trees
New research from Washington University in St. Louis provides insight into how proteins called phytochromes sense light and contribute to how plants grow. Biologists used sophisticated techniques to structurally define the sequence of events that support the transition between light- and dark-adapted states.

Asthma severity linked to microbiome of upper airway

A new study from the School of Medicine showed a correlation between the types of bacteria in the upper airway and severity of asthma symptoms. The study will lead to future research seeking possible ways to alter the airway microbiome to reduce asthma severity.

Survey: Electorate wants candidates, parties to act on climate change

In a November wave of The American Social Survey conducted by the Weidenbaum Center on the Economy, Government, and Public Policy, political scientists polled likely primary voters to find that — despite consensus among Democratic candidates and the Trump administration’s actions to repeal environmental regulations — the two parties’ electorates don’t match their candidates’ stances on climate change.

Division of Computational and Data Sciences marries AI, social science

The interdisciplinary Division of Computational and Data Sciences, one of a few of its kind in the country, focuses on turning the computational lens on social sciences. In the new PhD program, students have two advisers, one in computer engineering and one in a social science domain from social work and public health, political science, or psychological and brain sciences.

Happy holidays from The Record

The Dec. 13 issue marks the last Record of the calendar year. Publication will resume in January. For the latest news, visit The Source. The Record staff wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Who Knew WashU? 12.11.19

Question: When Andrew D. Martin became chancellor this year, he also became the second alumnus to lead Washington University in its 166-year history. Who was the first?

Local student surprised with WashU Pledge scholarship

On Dec. 12, 707 high school seniors opened their inboxes to learn that they had been accepted early decision to Washington University in St. Louis. But Zussy Chavira Duron of St. Louis got the good news straight from a team of Washington University leaders and the WashU Bear, who traveled to the College Bound St. Louis office to surprise her with an acceptance letter and a full WashU Pledge scholarship.