Humanoid Robotics & Trust: A new Science Robotics study finds people bond quickly with expressive humanoid robots, but trust can evaporate fast when the robot makes mistakes—key for healthcare, education, and home use. AI Models & Cost Wars: Alibaba unveiled Qwen3.8-Max, while DeepSeek’s V4-Flash is reported as ultra-cheap to run (over 100x cheaper than top U.S. rivals), underscoring a race for capable yet affordable AI. UC San Diego STEM Pipeline: UC San Diego launches a new BS in Business Data Science (starting Fall 2026), pairing data science training with management for fast-growing data/AI jobs. Earthquake Risk Watch: Caltech seismologist Lucy Jones warns “The Big One” on the San Andreas Fault could be closer than expected, with simulations pointing to severe, long shaking. Medicare AI Prior-Auth Pilot: Arizona is using an AI-driven WISeR program to flag wasteful or inappropriate Medicare services, amid reports of uneven rollout. Cybersecurity for Defense Contractors: Pleasanton-based Tryfacta achieves Final CMMC Level 2 status, strengthening its bid-readiness for DoD work. San Francisco Surveillance Debate: A new poll says many San Franciscans support police cameras and drones, reflecting shifting public attitudes toward public-safety tech. STEM Education Grants: Pacific Power Foundation awarded $343,800 in STEM grants across Oregon, Washington, and California.