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DNA Blueprints Guide The Construction Of Specific Human Structures
Chad Mirkin discusses using DNA to build a three-dimensional structure out of gold, likening the process to building a house. Starting with basic materials such as bricks, wood, siding, stone and shingles, a construction team can build many different types of houses out of the same building blocks.
The article includes an audio recording of the full interview. Photo courtesy of the UCSD School of Medicine.
| Tearful Testimony From Convicted Killer |
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| Government - The States | |||
| TS-Si News Service | |||
| Wednesday, 07 June 2006 20:00 | |||
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TS Woman Breaks Down In Suit Against Prison That Denies SRS
Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Michelle Kosilek broke down during testimony in her lawsuit against the state for not paying for Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS).
Reputedly a woman born transsexual, Michelle Kosilek Kosilek murdered her wife, Cheryl, in 1990, an event that occured before beginning transition and name change. She subsequently was sentenced to life in prison
Kosilek broke down on the witness stand. expressing her distress "every waking moment'' because she has not been allowed SRS.  Kosilek, who wore makeup and a feminine sweater with jeans to court, cried several times while describing growing up feeling like a "circus freak" trapped in the wrong body.Kosilek was in tears when asked what would happen if the court did not order state prison officials to allow the operation.
"I would not want to continue existing like this,'' said Kosilek. "The greatest loss is the dying I do inside a little bit every day.''
Kosilek has attempted suicide on two occasions because of her situation.
The Massachusetts department of corrections categorizes Kosilek as male, with assignment to an all-male, medium-security, prison in Norfolk.
Kosilek has attempted suicide on two occasions because of her situation. A psychiatrist testified last week that he believes Kosilek will commit suicide if state corrections officials refuse to allow the surgery.
Kosilek sued the state Department of Correction in 2000, claiming that its refusal to provide the surgery violated the Eighth Amendment right against cruel and unusual punishment.U.S. District Judge Mark Wolf ruled In 2002 that Kosilek was entitled to treatment for gender identity disorder, but did not order state-paid SRS.
Since Wolf's ruling, Kosilek has received psychotherapy, female hormone treatments, and laser hair removal. Kosilek has also been given some access to female undergarments and makeup. "Just the hormones and the makeup do not get rid of my suffering," Kosilek said.
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| Last Updated on Monday, 27 August 2007 17:14 |
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