AI in biomedical research: UVA researchers tested tools like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude on how cells communicate; they could identify cell reactions up to 65% of the time, but predictions for disease/drug responses dropped to as low as 6%, underscoring the need for multi-level testing before trusting AI in labs. Public safety tech & privacy: Virginia is rolling out more secure “chip-and-tap” EBT cards to cut SNAP skimming fraud, while in the D.C. area a police union is pushing for guardrails and transparency over Flock license-reader camera use. Local environmental health: Newport News says wind-fence configurations could reduce coal dust movement after a city study with UVA’s Repair Lab. STEM workforce pipeline: UVA launched AI4VA, pairing students with Virginia organizations to build practical AI skills, with students earning Google’s AI Professional Certificate before virtual placements. AI influence operations: Anthropic says it found nine influence operations using Claude, including state-linked actors trying to spread political content. Data centers debate: Thornton put a 12-month moratorium on large data center development to evaluate impacts and potential new rules. Menopause & heart risk: A new JAMA analysis (with VCU involvement) found earlier menopause hormone therapy was linked to lower cardiovascular event risk, with authors warning it’s not a randomized trial.