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The new science of volcanoes
On 22 December 2018, the southern flank of the Anak Krakatau volcano in Indonesia plunged into the sea, causing tsunami waves that killed at least 430 people. Multiple instruments had been recording signs of unusual activity for months, but the collapse still caught scientists by surprise. Researchers hope to use new machine-learning techniques to make sense of an increasing wealth of available information — including data from volcanic-gas signals, precision topographic mapping and infrasound sensing. “I think that when people look back on this period, they will imagine this is the golden era of physical volcanology,” says volcanologist Christopher Kilburn.
Long-acting injection protects from HIV
An antiretroviral injection given every two months prevents men and trans women from becoming infected with HIV, according to results that have not yet been peer-reviewed. The experimental drug, called cabotegravir, protects on a level on par with Truvada, a once-daily pill approved for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the United States. “It’s really exciting,” says epidemiologist Jared Baeten. “It gives another option for people who can’t or don’t want to take daily pills.”
Reference: HIV Prevention Trials press release