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We examine the collective behavior of single cells in microbial systems to provide insights into the origin of the biological clock. Microfluidics has opened a window onto how single cells can synchronize their behavior. Four hypotheses are proposed to explain the origin of the clock from the synchronized behavior of single cells. These hypotheses depend on the presence or absence of a communication mechanism between the clocks in single cells and the presence or absence of a stochastic component in the clock mechanism. To test these models, we integrate physical models for the behavior of the clocks in single cells or filaments with new approaches to measuring clocks in single cells. As an example, we provide evidence for a quorum-sensing signal both with microfluidics experiments on single cells and with continuousin vivometabolism NMR (CIVM-NMR). We also provide evidence for the stochastic component in clocks of single cells. Throughout this study, ensemble methods from statistical physics are used to characterize the clock at both the single-cell level and the macroscopic scale of 10⁶cells. 

We propose a System for Adaptive Interest-based Learning (SAIL) that utilizes community knowledge sharing (crowd-sourcing) strategies to empower adaptation of examples and practice problems based on students’ individual interests. Personalizing education based on interest can lead to increased intrinsic motivation and positive learning outcomes. While most studies have been conducted manually, adaptive learning technologies offer a new approach to widespread incorporation of adaptive interest-based materials. The difficulty in widespread implementation is the enormous effort required to create customized content. SAIL aims to provide a framework for educators to access and contribute adaptive materials via community knowledge sharing within an easy-to-use adaptive learning system. 

Computer Science (CS) seems to be everywhere - in our smartphones, apps, cars, watches and so much more. It is integrated into almost every discipline and has a growing importance in our daily lives, yet even with top salaries, exciting companies, and promising careers, the job market remains underpopulated and under-representative of women. Though its applications are everywhere, CS is an often misunderstood field due to lack of exposure and knowledge. This paper explores the misperception associated with Computer Science and examines the efforts to make it more inclusive by attracting women, introducing CS earlier at the K-12 level, and improving entry-level college courses.