SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " iol " 3,619 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
AI accurately reads brain MRIs in seconds
The tool can identify over 50 different neurological conditions with nearly 98% accuracy.
Making science more visible
As he enters a laboratory with saltwater pools full of fish, Luka Žuvić explains how climate change is affecting the feeding ecology and reproductive biology of Atlantic bluefin tuna, and how the species is adapting.It is a topic that may seem remote to many people. But in a country where fishing and aquaculture are important to the economy and national identity, Žuvić’s research is at the intersection of science and society. “In Croatia, marine and environmental science are closely connected to people’s lives because fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and coastal development are a big part of our lives,” explains Žuvić, a doctoral student working at the Croatian Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries in the Adriatic coastal city of Split. He also serves as one of Croatia’s ambassadors to Science Comes to Town (SCTT), a European Commission-funded project that aims to make scientific research more accessible, while inspiring young people to study the sciences. The project kicked off in Spilt on 20 January with a conference attended by partner institutions, community representatives, policymakers and scientists. Along with Split, Brest (in France) and Kiel (in Germany) will host a year of activities connecting scientists with the public.Žuvić, 31, is part of the Young Researchers' Career Development Project, a doctoral programme funded by the Croatian Science Foundation. His research on Atlantic bluefin tuna builds on a foundation-backed project focusing on the reproductive potential of farmed tuna, including their sexual maturation and spontaneous spawning in captivity, which has implications for the restoration of the Adriatic Sea's natural tuna populations. He also studies the tuna's feeding ecology through stomach-content analysis, using DNA metabarcoding and morphological approaches, and employs geometric morphometrics to improve the identification of juvenile tuna and related species. The research aims to enhance understanding of the tuna farming ecology, improve fish farm management and contribute to sustainable aquaculture and fisheries research.Engaging with local communitiesConnecting with the community is crucial for Žuvić’s research. Conversations with fishermen help him better understand the bluefin tuna's habits and how marine pollution affects the fish. “They are also curious about the biology and ecology of bluefin tuna,” he says of local fishermen, adding that sharing research with non-scientists benefits everyone. “Sometimes scientific research is invisible,” he explains. “That's why we as researchers need to go out from our institutions and labs to the public so that we can show them what we are working on. This helps create more trust in the scientists and their research.”Engaging the public also raises awareness about the anthropogenic changes to the marine environment resulting from human activities and pollution. Žuvić helps remove plastic and other rubbish from the Adriatic Sea that pose a direct threat to marine species. Predators, such as bluefin tuna, are especially vulnerable to ingesting waste churned up by fishing trawlers. “They are very opportunistic fish that follow trawlers and ingest everything,” he notes. To illustrate the impact, he has shown students the contents of bluefin tuna stomachs. “Finding a plastic bottle cap in the stomach of a bluefin tuna is concerning,” he says. "Science can be a powerful way to turn curiosity into practical solutions,” Žuvić adds, and sharing research outcomes “helps increase public awareness and improve understanding of human impacts on the marine environment.”The research also has implications for Croatia's economy. The Atlantic bluefin tuna’s rich, flavourful meat is highly valued for sushi and other raw fish dishes. However, overfishing nearly brought its population to collapse by the early 2000s. Although the species has made a comeback in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions, catches continue to be managed through agreements with the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas. Croatia was a pioneer in developing commercial aquaculture as an alternative to open-sea fishing and accounts for about 10% of the EU’s farmed production of the bluefin tuna, with Japan being a key export market.A history of European collaborationCroatia has participated in Europe’s framework programmes for research and innovation since 2007, six years before officially joining the EU. Žuvić believes that EU funding and collaboration with other European researchers is vital for Croatian science. As part of the SCTT opening conference, the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, the University of Split and other local institutions were part of a science fair to showcase research on topics, such as robotics and an EU LIFE project on the protection of sharks and rays in the Mediterranean. “I hope that Science Comes to Town will help increase scientific literacy and curiosity among citizens, particularly students, and show that science is not something that is distant or abstract, but something that directly affects everyday life,” Žuvić concludes. “Ultimately, I hope that projects like it contribute to building a society that values knowledge and critical thinking, and that we can think about long-term sustainability using knowledge from science.”Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
This tiny organism refused to die under Mars-like conditions
Baker’s yeast isn’t just useful in the kitchen — it may also be built for space. Researchers found that yeast cells can survive intense shock waves and toxic chemicals similar to those on Mars. The cells protect themselves by forming special stress-response structures that help them endure extreme conditions. This resilience could make yeast a powerful model for astrobiology and future space missions.
Liverpool v Man City: Team news
Liverpool boss Arne Slot names the same starting XI from the side that beat Newcastle 4-1 last time out. It means the in-form Hugo Ekitike leads the line supported by Florian Wirtz, who is beginning to find his feet in a Reds shirt. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola makes five changes to the side that beat Newcastle in midweek to reach the Carabao Cup final.
Lindsey Vonn’s Olympic dream ends in violent downhill crash
Various broadcasts captured audio of Vonn crying, “Oh my God!” as a buoyant crowd grew essentially silent.
Killers without a cause: The rise in nihilistic violent extremism
Amid a burst of high-profile targeted violence, authorities have identified a new source of terror.
Kids learn about biology, chemistry and physics at Science Alive
The event featured Kate the Chemist, hands-on activities, animals from Potawatomi Zoo and more as kids engaged with science and scientists.
Ancient bones reveal chilling victory rituals after Europe’s earliest wars
New evidence from Neolithic mass graves in northeastern France suggests that some of Europe’s earliest violent encounters were not random acts of brutality, but carefully staged displays of power. By analyzing chemical clues locked in ancient bones and teeth, researchers found that many victims were outsiders who suffered extreme, ritualized violence after conflict. Severed arms appear to have been taken from local enemies killed in battle, while captives from farther away were executed in a grim form of public spectacle.
Ohio man charged with Vance death threat amid rising US political violence
A federal grand jury indicted a 33-year-old Ohio man on Friday with threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance with an automatic weapon, the Justice Department said in a news release, as the US grapples with rising political violence and threats.
Six Palm Beach County restaurants temporarily shuttered for mold, roach infestations
From roaches in ovens to moldy ice machines, health inspectors shuttered six Palm Beach County eateries last week for food safety violations.
Pep Guardiola, Liam Rosenior and the risks and rewards for football figures talking politics
Lending their voice to non-football issues is not always a straightforward decision for managers and players - it can lead to a backlash
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm
While physical exertion helps athletes stay warm, sweating can lead to dehydration.
Winter Olympians often compete in freezing temperatures – physiology and advances in materials science help keep them warm
While physical exertion helps athletes stay warm, sweating can lead to dehydration.
Parents are ruining youth sports with their escalating misbehavior in the stands
Violence in the stands. Attacks on referees. Why can’t parents just let the children play?
Cardiologist impressed by experimental pill that significantly lowers cholesterol
An experimental oral PCSK9 inhibitor is associated with LDL-C reductions that could prove to be a game-changer for patient care.
NASA Study: Non-biologic Processes Don’t Fully Explain Mars Organics
In a new study, researchers say that non-biological sources they considered could not fully account for the abundance of organic compounds in a sample
Galaxy S26 Ultra strikes different poses in a high-def video leak
Galaxy S26 leaks keep coming, and the latest video leak showcases the upcoming Ultra phone in its gorgeous violet color.
‘Behind the Blue’: Lindsay Ragsdale on growing pediatric health care and supporting Project ADAM
In this episode of “Behind the Blue,” Lindsay Ragsdale, chief medical officer of Golisano Children’s at UK, discusses her career at the university, the role of palliative care, the growth of the children’s hospital and her own son’s experience as a pediatric cardiology patient. As a “Woman of Impact” nominee for the American Heart Association’s current fundraising campaign, she also highlights how AHA helps fund an important initiative overseen by a Golisano team — Project ADAM in Kentucky.
App issue triggers voluntary recall of some Siemens Healthineers CT systems
Siemens self-reported a problem with software being inadvertently delivered to U.S. systems when the applications have not yet been cleared for use by the FDA.
Smartwatch Health Alerts: Tampa cardiologist shares when to see a doctor
Many people wear smartwatches or use some type of wearable device that tells you about your health and your heart, but a Tampa cardiologist said it’s important to know what you’re looking at and when it’s time to see a doctor.
Only 15 and already a PhD: this Belgian genius stunned the scientific world - Futura-Sciences
Laurent’s achievement isn’t just about age. It’s about accelerating possibilities in science — from ultracold quantum systems to ambitious visions of improving human biology and extending healthy life. His journey prompts discussion around talent, education and the pace of discovery in the 21st century. A prodigy rewrites the academic timeline...
Failure to Alert Judge to Press Law for Reporter Search Draws Ethical Scrutiny
The Justice Department may have violated a candor rule by not disclosing a 1980 law when seeking a warrant for a Washington Post reporter’s home.
Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology 2026: Call for Entries!
Young scientists are awarded for their outstanding contributions to neurobiological research.
'The View' star Sara Haines cries upon learning she's related to 2 U.S. presidents
'The View' cohost Sara Haines broke down in tears upon learning that she's biologically related to two United States presidents, including one of the Founding Fathers.
The No. 1 Nutrient to Prioritize for Better Heart Health, According to a Cardiologist
In TODAY.com's Expert Tip of the Day, a cardiologist shares why loading up on this nutrient can help prevent heart disease and more.
Asking Eric: Concern for friend’s mental health leads to blocking her online
The niece phoned her and said I made contact to “check up on her.” The anger from my friend “interfering in her life” was vitriolic.
They help police with mental health calls. So why are 'mobile crisis' teams in crisis?
Interactions between police and someone in psychiatric crisis can end in violence. Communities have been sending mental health professionals instead, but paying for that service has been a struggle.
Marine biologists discover 28 new deep sea species—and an old VHS tape
The level of ocean biodiversity near Argentina staggered researchers.
Popular Cincinnati brewery fails health inspection
Health inspectors listed several violations they found during their inspection.
The No. 1 Heart Disease Symptom a Cardiologist Never Ignores in Her Own Body
A cardiologist at the Columbia Women's Heart Center shares the heart disease warning signs she looks for in her own body, including the most alarming symptoms besides chest pain.
So yeah, I vibe-coded a log colorizer—and I feel good about it
Some semi-unhinged musings on where LLMs fit into my life—and how I'll keep using them.
‘Health crime’: Aoun slams Israel over spraying chemicals in south Lebanon
Lebanese president says latest 'aggression' represents an environmental crime and a violation of country's sovereignty.
On the Future of Species by Adrian Woolfson review – are we on the verge of creating synthetic life?
A genomic entrepreneur’s guide to the coming revolution in biology raises troubling questions about ethics and safety
Solis Mammography CEO stepping down
Grant Davies says he is retiring after 6 years leading the Addison, Texas-based breast imaging provider, with a former Carestream exec now taking his place.
Interventional cardiologists take on angiography-derived physiology in new expert opinion
ADP offers care teams multiple benefits not seen with traditional wire-based physiologic assessments. A roundtable of 17 expert clinicians discussed the topic at length, and their findings were used to develop a new manuscript published in JSCAI.
Colorado’s reintroduction of wolverines is based on science not the ballot box biology that got us wolves(Opinion)
Earlier this month, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) released the Colorado Wolverine Restoration Plan, one of the final steps required by law to reestablish a wolverine population in the state…
Essentia Health-Hayward Clinic welcomes cardiology specialist Dr. Christina Fanola
Dr. Christina Fanola, a cardiologist, is thrilled to join the Essentia Health-Hayward Clinic.
'System in flux': Scientists reveal what happened when wolves and cougars returned to Yellowstone
Large carnivores are both clashing and coexisting in the western United States. Although wolves dominate cougars and steal their prey, cougars' shift from elk- to deer-heavy diets, paired with a rugged landscape for escape, might help cougars avoid violent wolf encounters.
Column | Stop taking the elevator. Your life depends on it.
After a half-century asking us to exercise more, doctors and physiologists say we have been thinking about it the wrong way.
Column | Stop taking the elevator. Your life depends on it.
After a half-century asking us to exercise more, doctors and physiologists say we have been thinking about it the wrong way.
Radiology among the 5 highest paid professions, US News & World Report says
Members of the specialty earned a median salary of approximately $239,200 last year, based on survey data gathered by the media company last fall.
University of Pittsburgh grappling with weeks-long delays for imaging results
UPMC, Pennsylvania’s largest hospital system, is reportedly grappling with radiologist shortages, which are forcing the organization to priortize urgent imaging orders in some cases.
Fuller: The Rule of Law is America’s way out of political violence
The Rule of Law is not an abstraction. It is the guardrail that keeps disagreement from becoming destruction.
Children at gymnastics meet witness double shooting during violent robbery at nearby business
A violent robbery witnessed by multiple children in Jacksonville’s Lakeshore neighborhood sent two men to the hospital and forced nearby businesses — including a kids’ gymnastics meet — to shut down in the middle of the day.
2026 NFL mock draft: Broncos add RB to backfield
Draft Wire's latest 2026 NFL mock draft has the Broncos adding PSU RB Nick Singleton in the third round.
8 Mistakes Cardiologists Say Could Be Wrecking Your Heart Health
For American Heart Month, four cardiologists share the biggest mistakes they see people make for their hearts—and provide simple, realistic fixes.
HHS exploring how to bolster medical imaging exchange across healthcare ecosystem
The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology recently released a call for public comment on the work of radiologists
AI-supported mammography more effective than standard screening, new large-scale study contends
The findings come from Sweden's Mammography Screening with Artificial Intelligence, or MASAI, a randomized clinical trial incorporating over 105,000 women.
Indiana imaging group joins Strategic Radiology’s independent practice coalition
Evansville Radiology employs 23 physicians, all of whom live around Vanderburgh County in the vicinity of Indiana’s third largest city.
Arctic Vision Announces Deal to Integrate MDCO Technology’s Ophthalmic Device Business to Form a Global Drug–Device Innovation Platform
SHANGHAI, Feb. 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Headquartered in Shanghai, Arctic Vision (Cayman) Limited (“Arctic Vision”), a global ophthalmic company, announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the innovative ophthalmic device business of MDCO Technology, a Hangzhou-based ophthalmic medical-device company. The proposed transaction will bring MDCO’s premium intraocular lens (IOL), implantable contact lens (Phakic Lens), and refractive-device platforms into Arctic Vision’s global op
Galaxy S26 Ultra’s Marketing Material Leaks Out, Showing The Flagship In An Absolutely Stunning Cobalt Violet Paint Job
A reliable leaker has shared the marketing material of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, showing Samsung’s top-end flagship in a gorgeous Cobalt Violet color
Can Pakistan Contain the Violent Politics of Blasphemy?
The government’s ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik reduced blasphemy violence but will take work to maintain.
Cardiologist: think of heart health as investing, start early
Lifestyle changes can make a big impact on your heart health. A cardiologist says we should start early.
New NKY clinic to offer cardiology, women’s health, labs and primary care under one roof
The Christ Hospital Health Network is expanding into Northern Kentucky with a new $16 million outpatient center.
Why a healthy Fordham should concern the rest of the A10
The Rams boast some of the best defensive computer metrics, and they were fully on display in a home win over La Salle
Israeli strikes kill 12 in Gaza, health ministry says
Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed at least 12 people, the Palestinian health ministry said, with children reported to be among the fatalities in the latest violence rattling a tenuous ceasefire.
Night owl or early bird: Chronotype can influence your health and muscle strength
Being more active in the morning or afternoon is not just a matter of personal preference. Chronotype, which is each person's biological tendency to function better at certain times of the day, can play ...
South African pediatric cardiologist joins Manning Family Children's in New Orleans
"I've been very fortunate to be able to make the differences that I've been able to make," Dr. Russel Hirsch said. "And hope to continue that."
Scientists Discover Living Bacteria Hidden Inside the #1 Type of Kidney Stone
Scientists have uncovered an unexpected biological factor hidden within the most common type of kidney stone.
The World’s Largest Biological Battle Is Being Fought in Space
But this evolutionary “arms race” looks a little different when playing out in microgravity.
Oregon businesses and students join general strike Friday to protest immigration enforcement
Multiple nationwide organizations are calling for businesses to close and people to walk out of school and work to protest mass deportations and violence against demonstrators.
Health Rounds: Apple watches help patients monitor a common heart disorder
Apple watches are proving useful in screening for the common heart rhythm disorder atrial fibrillation, or AFib, according to two studies published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
Women Are More Likely Than Men to Endorse Political Violence
A new survey finding points to the dangers of digital outrage culture.
Radiologists continue to dominate in No Surprises Act payment disputes
The federal government recently released new data pertaining to the landmark legislation, meant to protect patients from receiving unexpected medical bills.
Activists call for a nationwide ‘blackout’ to protest against Trump’s violent immigration crackdown
Organizers say the demonstration is part of a growing non-violent movement
Napoli vs Fiorentina: Preview
The Partenopei are struggling right now but still more than capable of squashing the Viola like a bug.
UN criticizes Haiti for lack of progress on a political transition
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. Security Council criticized Haitian authorities Thursday for the lack of progress in achieving a political transition and called for urgent security sector reforms to tackle increasing violence by gangs and criminal groups.
The Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Ascended Heroes Expansion Is Available Now
Celebrate the stars of Scarlet & Violet, and marvel at the potential of returning and newly discovered Mega Evolution Pokémon ex.
The attack on Ilhan Omar and Trump’s destructive politics of violence
The president's rhetoric portends worse to come.
Ohio political blog 'The Rooster' banned from X after criticizing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem
The blog's author, D.J. Byrnes of Columbus, wrote that Noem "will have to die in prison. No other way around it." The social media platform banned Byrnes for violent speech and abuse.
ICE Will Play a Big Factor in the Maine Senate Race
Seems like Republican senator Susan Collins is trying to take credit for the agency’s removal from the state. Governor Janet Mills, who’s challenging for her seat, had a rebuttal.
theScore Bet Customers Flocking to Seahawks in Player Prop Markets
Seattle’s offense has averaged 36 points in the playoffs, so it's no surprise players like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Kenneth Walker III are popular.
Monkey Business: Using Genetics to Understanding Decision-Making in Monkeys
Abigail Morris first visited the Peruvian Amazon when she was 6 years old. Now, as a Ph.D. candidate in the Animal Behavior Graduate Group, she has returned to study how seasonal flooding affects the behavior, diet and population genetics of two species of monkey: monk sakis (Pithecia monachus) and large-headed capuchins (Sapajus apella macrocephalus).
Democratic Governors Promise Accountability After Alex Pretti Killing
The chin-out rhetoric of Democratic governors about holding Trump administration officials responsible for violence in their cities may be more political than practicable.
1 'Powerful' Habit For Heart Health That's Not Exercise
In TODAY.com's Expert Tip of the Day, a cardiologist reveals a habit that has the heart-healthy benefits of exercise, but can be done while sitting in place.
Opinion | A ‘Fringe Epidemiologist’ on What’s Wrong With Public Health
Jay Bhattacharya, the N.I.H. director, says authorities broke the public’s trust in the Covid era. Now it’s up to outsiders to restore it.
Opinion | A ‘Fringe Epidemiologist’ on What’s Wrong With Public Health
Jay Bhattacharya, the N.I.H. director, says authorities broke the public’s trust in the Covid era. Now it’s up to outsiders to restore it.
Should We Treat Political Violence as a Public Health Crisis?
Thinking of political violence solely as a safety issue is not enough to address the harm that follows. “The patient is the community.”
Premier Radiology Services acquires rival teleradiology group NRad
Backed by private equity investors at Grovecourt Capital Partners, the Florida firm is buying National Radiology Solutions for an undisclosed sum.
ASNC says PET is now the preferred nuclear imaging test for CAD
Which imaging modality is better for evaluating heart patients, PET or SPECT? After years of discussions and debates, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology is now ready to point to PET as the No. 1 choice. “There are no clinical scenarios or patient subgroups where cardiac PET with myocardial blood flow should be excluded," the group wrote.
How violent videos on social media affect mental health
Dr. Varsha Radhakrishnan of Tufts Medical Center discusses how watching violent and distressing videos on social media can have harmful health effects.
Opinion | A defense of business leaders’ pragmatic letter about the events in Minnesota
"Maybe public vitriol isn’t the measure by which to judge the words of business leaders in today’s world and with this president," Tom Horner writes.
Social Sciences in the News: Political Science Professor Omar Wasow
Political Science Professor Omar Wasow authored an op-ed in The New York Times titled "We’re Seeing the Weakness of a Strong State." I study the political consequences of protest and state violence.
5 things to know for Jan. 28: Minnesota ICE crackdown, Political violence, Severe weather, Social media trial, Epstein files
CNN’s 5 Things AM brings you the news you need to know every morning.
Health inspections lead to 4 Central Florida restaurant shutdowns last week
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation shut down four Central Florida dining venues for health code violations during the week from Jan. 18-24.
Investment and Statecraft: The International Politics of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
In 1953, Kuwait established the world’s first sovereign wealth fund to invest the country’s oil revenues and generate returns that would reduce its reliance on a single resource. Since then, over 100 separate funds have been created to preserve national wealth and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Today, they manage over $10 trillion in global assets. In this discussion with GJIA, political economist Kathryn Lavelle explains the increasingly novel dynamics that surround fund behavior and what the world can come to expect from their growing presence in international financial markets. GJIA: When it comes to the roles sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) play in global markets and politics, what would you say makes them unique? Kathryn Lavelle: Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) operate on behalf of governments as investors. That in itself is a strange relationship. Within them, a core contest takes place between the state’s interests (or sovereign) part of the dynamic, and the money interests (or wealth) part of it, and these two aspects are frequently in contradiction, serving fundamentally different goals. SWFs are also quite fascinating because when you talk to the people who manage these funds, they have an interest in convincing you that the decisions are made almost exclusively on a financial basis—they really will go to great lengths to differentiate their government owners and those who make the management decisions. At the same time, these people ultimately answer to someone in power. Therefore, for most SWFs, it remains deeply unclear who is actually making the investment decisions and for what purposes. Of course, it is not always clear how other vehicles, such as hedge funds and private equity make the decisions they do, but I think what a lot of people find particularly disconcerting about SWFs is that they seem to act on behalf of people who have a different identity from their own. People who could be trying to manipulate politics and markets in a way that would have a long-term effect on their own populations. Regular investors come and go at will, and they only share an interest in profit as far as most of us understand. However, SWFs have that extra “sovereign” part right behind them that obscures their true interest. GJIA: These funds can be found in countries all across the globe, in both authoritarian states and democracies. Would you say SWFs differ in their goals and structures between regime-type? KL: It is not necessarily regime type that makes the goals and structures of SWFs different. It has to do with their economies. Let’s look at a country like China. There’s going to be a debate about exactly how to characterize the regime, but it is a country with many different kinds of sovereign wealth funds, and a particularly opaque state connection to each. At one time, some of the state-owned Chinese oil companies created specialized investment vehicles listed outside Chinese markets that excluded parts of the firms that were more associated with human rights violations. At the same time, the China Investment Corporation (CIC)—China’s largest SWF—draws a lot of concern, not necessarily because of its investment activities, but because of the dynamics of global politics. So, I wouldn’t really tie differences to regime types themselves in a wholesale way, but rather to how such funds are perceived and how they are structured. Saudi Arabia’s SWF is getting all kinds of attention for its involvement in Hollywood, and this takes me right back to when I was a student in the 1980s, when people were concerned about Japanese investment entities buying assets in Hollywood. They aren’t quite the same in financial terms, but it’s the same kind of concern about foreign investment that drives people to be suspicious, and the whole idea that “foreigners are influencing Hollywood.” This holds true across industries, and it reflects where politics are in places like the United States right now. One metric we can try to look at is transparency, where all the funds will tell you, “we are transparent.” The problem you’ll keep running into with this approach is how you value things. When trying to do comparative studies of equity markets, you’ll find that every country doesn’t use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles like we do in the United States. A fund may appear opaque politically and not want people to show what they’re invested in or what their intent with that investment is, but they could also just not be able to report it because of the way it was purchased, or the kinds of shares they purchased. There are some assets out there that really are difficult to put a monetary value on. GJIA: To what extent do domestic politics shape SWF behavior in both the investing “home” country and the recipient “host” country? KL: This depends on the type of fund present and also on the extent to which voters’ political views are able to influence the fund. For example, in a democratic home state like Norway, the SWF doesn’t invest in nuclear weapons or tobacco because of social concerns, but there is a continuing debate over whether it should invest in oil, even though that’s where most of the money comes from. The degree to which Norway will continue to make those investments, and whether they contradict the government’s overall climate goals, is an open question in Norwegian politics. Because of the way the fund’s governance is structured, it may not be easy to resolve. On the other hand, some people consider pension funds, like the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in Ohio, to be quasi-SWF. They have a very strict separation between the people who make up the management division and the fund owners. No teacher or professor would want to invest in things that may harm the future of their students. At the same time, a fund manager might see an opportunity in a diversified multinational corporation that offers a good return, despite it deriving part of its revenue from e-cigarettes. These contests are very apparent. Domestic politics can work in host countries too. A good example is Singapore’s SWF, Temasek, investing in Thailand’s telecommunications sector. If you study political economy, you already know that countries everywhere are uncomfortable with foreign ownership of their telecom sectors because a foreign entity could monitor or manipulate our communications with each other. In the case of Temasek, there was significant pushback from Thai citizens surrounding the deal, which went on to influence national political sentiment toward Singapore as a whole, underscoring the risks some SWFs may face with their investment choices. In this case, fund behavior led to the dissolution of the entire Thai government in 2006 and a subsequent coup d’état. GJIA: To address some of this unease, the Santiago Principles were established in 2009 to ostensibly promote trust and transparency. From your perspective, have these mechanisms actually changed fund behavior? KL: In international relations theory, we always like to have a clear set of norms and best practices—the orientation we want the proverbial ship to be going in. In that regard, the Santiago Principles at least got the discussion going about which direction SWFs should take at a time when people were very skittish about the growing size of these funds. Nobody wanted them to be out there and potentially destabilizing economies, so talks about disclosure, conditions for withdrawal, and the independence of managers were helpful when initiated. The biggest stumbling block was that there wasn’t exactly a good way to measure compliance with the Principles, let alone how to hold funds to them. If you read the Principles, they’re overall quite vague. In general, a fund doesn’t want to reveal how and why they make certain investment decisions because that information is proprietary—a fund makes money off of how and why it makes decisions—so how do you reconcile that with loosely-defined ideas of openness? Some decisions might have a political purpose. The bottom line is that trying to figure out and assign a score to compliance is not easy, and it is therefore the reason why the Santiago Principles never really got off the ground to the point where they could truly direct fund behavior. GJIA: Many emerging markets are looking to build their own SWFs from mineral and oil revenues. Historically, have funds shaped development trajectories in these countries? KL: I think the big story in international emerging markets investment is that the investment is increasingly no longer unidirectional. In the past multinational corporations of primarily Western background were the main form of foreign direct investment in a country. That has changed dramatically, to the point where you have companies from so-called “developing countries” taking over companies in the United States. Therefore, the landscape of international investment has changed, and I think SWFs are certainly a possibility to be the next step in the game. Historically, you didn’t need an entire financial vehicle to reinvest commodity revenues in your country, but as emerging markets get more financially sophisticated, their capacity to operate such funds has increased. SWFs would allow treasuries to move from relying on holding foreign exchange assets like cash or government bonds to having broader financial markets and targeted growth areas, while easing pressure on welfare expenditures. GJIA: With their increasing financial weight, do you see the presence of SWFs being a factor in the political choices leaders will have to make with regard to domestic and foreign policy? KL: It will depend on just how big the funds get. One of the reasons people are already apprehensive is because of their scale, and if certain SWFs in certain countries achieve a large-enough size, the presence will absolutely be cause for concern. The other factor political leaders will have to consider are their objectives. It’s not always clear how to define a SWF, or even where its activity is concentrated, but it is certainly a worry from the perspective of national security of opaque external investment. More than that, I think one of the most interesting questions going forward is whether the United States, the home to the world’s largest financial markets, will develop its own fund, for which the Trump administration announced a plan. There have also been several proposals in Congress. Were it to come into being, it would have tremendous weight. At the same time, one of the hallmarks of U.S. capitalism is a lack of government ownership of shares, so it would not be clear how such a fund would be received in domestic politics, or which direction it would take. Given how politically fragmented the country is, a Democratic administration would likely be concerned about different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, and want investment there, rather than a Republican administration, which might prefer defense industries. No investment vehicle could thrive under conditions of such instability. Moreover, it remains unclear where the money to fund a theoretical U.S. SWF would come from. It would be a fundamentally different entity depending on whether it is financed with debt, economic surplus, commodities, or the sale of state companies, as in the case of Singapore. If it is debt, or government borrowing of some form, then the fund would have to outperform whatever the cost of that debt is, which is not an easy thing to do. I think our political leaders have enough on their plate. Our system has worked well keeping political and investment functions generally separate. We have seen different forms of business rise and fall, and even the perception of different countries, all of which funds are tied to. Unless a major SWF either starts—like in the case of the United States—or collapses—an issue that concerns the Saudis, I don’t see any political tsunamis on the horizon. . . . Kathryn Lavelle is the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor of World Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Her research explores the exchange between domestic and international and political institutions with a particular emphasis on political economy and multilateralism. Dr. Lavelle’s first book, The Politics of Equity Finance in Emerging Markets, explored the political circumstances that surround large issues of stock in the developing world. After being granted tenure at Case Western, she was awarded an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship and named the William A. Steiger fellow, a designation given to the most promising political scientist in her class of fellows. While in Washington during 2006-2007, she worked on the staff of the House Committee on Financial Services on issues related to domestic and international monetary policy. Dr. Lavelle holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University; an M.A. in government and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia; and a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Georgetown University. She is a permanent member of the New York Council on Foreign Relations. This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Interview conducted by Sid Mehrotra. Image Credit: Jason Leung, Unsplash Content Licenses, via Unsplash
Parental firearm injury linked to increased mental health burden in children
Each year, 20,000 children and adolescents across the U.S. lose a parent to gun violence, while an estimated two to three times more have a parent who has been injured due to a firearm. To better understand ...
6 more Central Florida restaurants close over health violations
Last week, half a dozen eateries across Central Florida were forced to close after a visit from a health inspector, according to state records.
Radiologists urge HHS secretary to overhaul US Preventive Services Task Force
Over 45 physicians, scientists and public health leaders believe a “fundamental shift” is needed to address how USPSTF develops and implements recommendations.
Nature
Genetic variations affect biological processes and can drive disease, but deciphering the precise effects of DNA sequence changes remains a significant...
Radio waves revealed what happened before a star exploded
For the first time, astronomers have captured radio signals from a rare exploding star, exposing what happened in the years leading up to its death. The radio waves reveal that the star violently shed huge amounts of material shortly before it exploded, likely due to interaction with a nearby companion star. This discovery gives scientists a new tool to rewind the clock on stellar deaths. It also shows that some supernovae are far more dramatic in their final moments than previously thought.
Peter H. Duesberg, 89, Renowned Biologist Turned H.I.V. Denialist, Dies
His pioneering work on the origins of cancer was later overshadowed by his contrarian views, notably his rejection of the established theory that H.I.V. causes AIDS.
Apple and Google reportedly still offer dozens of AI ‘nudify’ apps
A recent investigation found over 100 apps on iOS and Android that use AI to create nonconsensual and sexualized images. This is a clear violation of both companies' policies.
'Unify.' Melania Trump calls for peace in Minneapolis in rare statement
"I'm against the violence, so please, if you protest, protest in peace," the first lady said. "We need to unify."
Minnesota judge orders acting ICE director to appear in court
Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons has been ordered to appear in federal court this Friday to explain why he should not be held in contempt for violating a judge’s order in the case of a man who is challenging his detention.
Sandiola Grows Clinical Documentation Integrity Services Business 60% in 2025
Sandiola, the leader in Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) services for independent, community hospitals, proudly announces growing its client base 60% in 2025.
'Never Underestimate' Erling Haaland, Says Man City coach Pep Guardiola
Manager Pep Guardiola blamed Erling Haaland's goal drought on Man City having to "create more chances."
Guy Benson warns tensions in Minnesota over ICE operations is a ‘political and PR battle’ for Trump
Fox News contributor Guy Benson discusses President Donald Trump’s push to quell violence in Minnesota over ICE operations on ‘Fox & Friends.’
This discovery could let bones benefit from exercise without moving
Researchers have discovered a biological switch that explains why movement keeps bones strong. The protein senses physical activity and pushes bone marrow stem cells to build bone instead of storing fat, slowing age-related bone loss. By targeting this “exercise sensor,” scientists believe they could create drugs that mimic exercise at the molecular level. The approach could protect fragile bones in people who are unable to stay active.