Best Hardware
Systematic Analysis of Underlying Limitations was designed with the aim of providing a more dynamic platform for the analysis of probiotics. We imagined a device which could simulate and help understand various conditions of the stomach and gut environment. To achieve this, we designed a simple device to bring the mechanical conditions to life, and act as a ground to perform laboratory experiments for testing physiological conditions. Furthermore, we wrote a detailed procedure about the assembly of the parts and experimentation, however due to lack of access to labs we were unable to build it. We have also performed structural analysis using ANSYS (Static Structural Workbench). This journey enabled us to not only make a device but also to gain a new perspective of the gastrointestinal tract.
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Best Education
The COVID-19 pandemic made it extremely difficult for us to interact with people and spread the beauty of biology. However, the show must go on! In order to spread awareness about our project and synthetic biology, we organized a BIOSUMMIT and a webinar as well as designed a cookbook and a game. We also wrote a newspaper article about methylmercury in the local language of Kannada which is yet to be published.
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Best Integrated Human Practices
Methylmercury poisoning affects innumerable people, primarily but not limited to fish eating communities. Fishes are not only an important part of their diet but also their cultures. Several fish festivals are celebrated throughout India and the world and it is a source of income to many. To emphasize on the dangers of methylmercury in our native country we have also depicted multiple graphs, graphics etc correlating the most high risk zones to the number of industries and mines as well as the high number of fish consumers in that area. Throughout our iGEM journey, we consulted many experts who suggested several changes and considerations. Through Integrated Human Practices, we ensured that: we would not be using resources which could be used as food for humans and animals, several nitrogen sources were considered to ensure cost and wastage reductions, capsule considerations were changed to have two variants to accommodate children, etc. Thus, our project evolved to become more inclusive, cost effective, resourceful and safe.
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