Category Archives: Education

artificial intelligence, Internet, Social Media

The Alarming Consequences of Hate Speech: Why Brands are Deserting X

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In our current age, social media platforms have gained immense power over public discourse, and recent events have highlighted the dire consequences of allowing hate speech and discrimination to thrive without consequences. These reprehensible behaviors not only cause harm to individuals but also damage the fabric of society by perpetuating harmful stereotypes and fueling divisions. As such, we must work towards creating a safer online environment where all individuals can express themselves freely without fear of harassment or discrimination. The repercussions of such content are not limited to social harm alone; they extend to the corporate world as advertisers begin to distance themselves from platforms that tolerate such toxicity. One platform facing a mass exodus of advertisers is X, formerly known as Twitter, and the reasons are deeply concerning.

Recent revelations have exposed a disturbing trend of pro-Nazi content appearing alongside company advertisements. Even more disconcerting, the platform could have effectively prevented this from happening. In a world where corporate responsibility is paramount, this grave oversight threatens the reputations and values of companies that advertise on X.

Moreover, the actions of influential figures on X, like Elon Musk, supporting baseless antisemitic conspiracy theories, send shockwaves through the platform’s user base of millions. Musk’s actions amplify hateful narratives and contribute to an environment where disinformation and hatred can fester. Such actions by influential individuals can have socially and economically far-reaching consequences.

The response from corporations has been swift and resolute. IBM, a tech giant, has demonstrated its commitment to ethics and social responsibility by ceasing all advertising on X. Their stance echoes a “zero tolerance for hate speech and discrimination” policy, which should serve as a benchmark for other companies. The European Commission, a governing body responsible for the well-being of millions across the continent, has suspended all advertising on X, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Hollywood studio Lionsgate Entertainment, a prominent name in the entertainment industry, has also taken a principled stand, immediately suspending all advertising on X. This bold statement aligns with their commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

Even Apple, a tech behemoth, has noticed and halted all advertising on X, signaling the gravity of the issue. Such actions from leading companies serve as a reminder that the corporate world has a role in shaping the ethical landscape of social media platforms.

We should take into account the departure of these advertisers. It sends a powerful message to X and platforms like it, asserting the importance of accountability, ethical responsibility, and protecting societal values over profit margins. Companies that continue to advertise on platforms that allow hate speech and discrimination risk not only tarnishing their brand but also complicity in enabling harm.

In conclusion, the exodus of advertisers from X is not merely a business decision but a response to a grave moral and ethical concern. Hate speech and discrimination have no place in our society, and platforms that allow their propagation must be held accountable. The actions of companies like IBM, the European Commission, Lionsgate Entertainment, and Apple should serve as an inspiration to others. We can foster an online environment that promotes tolerance, diversity, and well-being.

Citation:

Allyn, B. (2023, November 17). Advertiser exodus grows as Elon Musk’s X struggles to calm concerns over antisemitism. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2023/11/17/1213836636/advertiser-exodus-grows-as-elon-musks-x-struggles-to-calm-concerns-over-antisemi

Ancestry, Culture, Education, Religion

Is Unearthing the Mystical Past: Sorcery and Magic on the Pilgrimage Road to Mecca Possible?

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Introduction:
Nestled in the mountains of the Eilat region in Southern Israel lies a historical treasure trove that has puzzled locals and archaeologists for decades. Over 30 years ago, curious artifacts were discovered along a route frequently traversed by pilgrims journeying to the sacred city of Mecca. Now, new research sheds light on the enigmatic purpose of these items, suggesting they were tools of the trade for practitioners of popular magic ceremonies.

The Investigation:
Experts, including Dr. Itamar Taxel of the Israel Antiquities Authority, Dr. Uzi Avner of the Dead Sea-Arava Science Center, and Dr. Nitzan Amitai-Preiss of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, conducted this intriguing research. Their analysis of these artifacts, dating back around 400 years, unveils a fascinating chapter in the region’s history.

According to the researchers, these artifacts served various mystical purposes, including warding off the malevolent influence of the evil eye and facilitating healing rituals. In a statement, the authors noted that these discoveries indicate that during the Early Ottoman Period, people sought the services of famous sorcerers alongside their adherence to the formal beliefs of the official religion.

Artifacts of Magic:
Among the unearthed relics are dozens of clay globular rattles, resembling table tennis balls, containing small stones that would create sounds when shaken. These rattles were likely integral to the magical ceremonies and rituals practiced by the individuals of that era.

Additionally, excavations uncovered votive incense altars, quartz pebbles, and figurines, one of which portrays a naked woman or goddess with raised hands—a characteristic representation of deities or priests.

The Unique Clay:
One of the remarkable findings of this research is the origin of the clay used for these ceramics. It is believed to have come from Egypt, marking the first instance of such clay being recovered from a temporary site rather than a permanent settlement.

Conclusion:
The mysterious artifacts discovered along the Pilgrimage Road to Mecca provide a unique glimpse into the world of popular magic and mysticism that coexisted with formal religious practices in the Early Ottoman Period. These findings enrich our understanding of the diverse beliefs and rituals that shaped the region’s cultural heritage. The road and its associated archaeological sites are poised to become part of a captivating tourist area, inviting visitors to explore the rich history of this magical landscape.

Cite Works:

Ritualistic Artifacts Belonging To Sorcerers Uncovered On Hajj Pilgrimage Route. https://www.iflscience.com/ritualistic-artifacts-belonging-to-sorcerers-uncovered-on-hajj-pilgrimage-route-70636?fbclid=IwAR2gnIzCIhdIqtzwr0bA02OGaDntDhtU7Hb6mB5Gg4pkbidh3FMJetHokDI

Rand, Harry. The 12 Days of Christmas: The Outlaw Carol That Wouldn’t Die. McFarland, 2023.

Clarke, Desmond. Man, God, Religion, and State. Austin Macauley Publishers, 2023.

Behavioral Science, Culture, disease, Education, Health, mental health, Public health

Is Your Night Owl Lifestyle Putting You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?

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Night owls, beware! If you feel groggy in the morning but perky in the evening, you might identify as a night owl, inclined to stay up late and sleep in. While this sleep pattern may seem harmless, a recent study has uncovered a concerning connection between being a night owl and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Lead author Sina Kianersi, a postdoctoral research fellow at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, explains, “When we looked at the relationship between chronotype and diabetes, we found night owls had a 72% increased risk of developing diabetes over the eight years of our study.”

Even more alarming is that night owls exhibit various unhealthy behaviors that contribute to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. They were more likely to have a poor diet, be less physically active, consume higher quantities of alcohol, maintain an unhealthy BMI (body mass index), smoke, and either sleep less or more than the recommended seven to nine hours per night.

Even when the study accounted for these unhealthy habits, night owls still faced a 19% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to early birds. This suggests that genetic factors or other unaccounted variables also play a role.

Dr. Bhanu Prakash Kolla, a sleep medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the importance of awareness for evening-oriented individuals. He suggests moderating alcohol use, quitting smoking, increasing physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and managing other risks as best as possible.

Our internal body clocks, or circadian rhythms, control our sleep patterns, which are subject to genetic and environmental influences. Early birds have circadian rhythms that promote early mornings, while night owls have rhythms that delay peak activity until the afternoon or evening. When these rhythms are disrupted, it can lead to a domino effect of adverse health consequences, including an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have consistently shown that early birds perform better in school, are more active throughout the day, and have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, night owls tend to develop unhealthy habits that can lead to early mortality.

The study, which followed nearly 64,000 nurses over eight years, found that the association between being a night owl and developing type 2 diabetes was more significant for those who worked during the day than for night owls who had later work hours or worked overnight shifts. This suggests that personalized work scheduling could help mitigate some of the risks of being a night owl.

While genetics may play a role in one’s chronotype, maintaining a healthy lifestyle remains crucial. Night owls can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses by adopting a healthier way of living. So, consider this a wake-up call for all the night owls to prioritize their health and well-being.

Genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors affect being a night owl or having a preference for staying up late and sleeping in. While the exact genetic factors contributing to night owl behavior are still being studied, here are some insights into the genetic aspects that may play a role:

  1. Clock Genes: Clock genes are one of the critical genetic factors in regulating our sleep-wake patterns. These genes control our circadian rhythms, the internal body clock determining when we feel alert and sleepy. The PERIOD genes (PER1, PER2, and PER3) and the CLOCK gene are examples of genes that influence circadian rhythms. Variations in these genes can lead to differences in the timing of sleep.
  2. Melatonin Receptors: Melatonin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep. The genes responsible for coding melatonin receptors, such as MTNR1A and MTNR1B, can impact how individuals respond to melatonin production, which varies throughout the day. Genetic variations in these receptors can affect an individual’s sleep-wake preferences.
  3. DEC2 Gene: Some studies have identified the DEC2 gene as a potential contributor to being a night owl. This gene is associated with short sleep patterns and is linked to people who can function well with fewer hours of sleep.
  4. PER3 Gene: The PER3 gene regulates the circadian rhythm’s sensitivity to light. Variations in this gene can affect how individuals respond to light cues and influence their sleep patterns.
  5. RORA Gene: The RORA gene regulates sleep duration and timing. Variations in this gene have been linked to differences in circadian rhythms and sleep preferences.
  6. Genetic Variability: It is essential to note that multiple genetic variations can contribute to being a night owl. These genetic factors can interact with each other and with environmental influences, making it a complex trait influenced by both nature and nurture.

While genetics plays a role, it is essential to recognize that environmental factors, such as work schedules, lifestyle choices, and exposure to light, can also significantly impact an individual’s sleep-wake patterns. Genetic predispositions do not determine behavior definitively but can make specific sleep patterns more likely.

Research in this field is ongoing, and our understanding of the genetic basis of night owl behavior continues to evolve as more studies are conducted.

Cite Works:

Okeefe, Christine. “From early birds to night owls: a review of chronobiology.” (2023).

Zhou, Ke, Marios Constantinides, Daniele Quercia, and Sanja Šćepanović. “How Circadian Rhythms Extracted From Social Media Relate to Physical Activity and Sleep.” In Proceedings of the International AAAI Conference on Web and Social Media, vol. 17, pp. 948-959. 2023.

Schilling, Ray. “Lung Cancer Screening Program.” Lung Cancer (2023).

Migliaccio, Gian Mario. The Science of Deep Sleep, Towards Success: Unleashing energies in Sports and Life thanks to quality sleep. Sport Science Lab srl, 2023.

Artificial Intelligence, Education, Science

The Future of Artificial Intelligence: Energy-Efficient and Self-Learning Neuromorphic Computing

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books, Culture, Education, meditation, mental health, positive thinking, Social Justice

Empowering Social Justice Through Meditation and Love: The Transformative Path of Liberation Theology

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As a transformative practice, meditation plays a significant role in liberation theology, intertwining inner reflection with social justice. This potent tool enables people to examine their core values and beliefs, cultivating empathy and compassion for those suffering from societal injustices. Through meditation, individuals develop a heightened awareness of systemic injustices and their responsibility to advocate for change. Love, at the heart of liberation theology, drives the pursuit of justice for the oppressed, acknowledging the intrinsic dignity of every human being. Love empowers individuals to act with empathy, understanding, and solidarity, breaking down barriers that perpetuate discrimination and injustice.

Liberation theology, grounded in love and justice, seeks to liberate the oppressed from oppressive systems and structures that deny their inherent rights and freedoms. It calls for dismantling systems of exploitation and advocates for the empowerment of marginalized communities, enabling them to stand tall in their rightful place as equal members of society. Liberation theology emphasizes the importance of love and compassion in guiding actions that challenge the status quo and work towards a more equitable and inclusive world.

Through the lens of liberation theology, justice takes on a transformative dimension, calling for the redistribution of power and resources to uplift the marginalized and oppressed. Justice demands accountability for those who perpetrate injustice and advocates for reparative actions that seek to rectify historical wrongs. It seeks to break the chains of oppression, ensuring everyone lives with dignity and freedom. Meditation guides this pursuit of justice, nurturing the patience and resilience required to address deeply ingrained social issues and foster lasting change.

Ultimately, the combination of meditation, love, justice, and liberation theology provides a robust framework for collective action. It encourages individuals to challenge their biases and privileges, fostering a society that values every human life and upholds the principles of justice and equality. People who engage in the transformative practice of meditation develop the clarity and inner strength to fight for justice with a deep love for humanity. Liberation theology ignites the flame of hope, inspiring communities to unite in solidarity, and together, they create a world where the pursuit of justice and love prevails, leading to the liberation of all from the chains of oppression.

Sources

Roelofs, H. Mark. “Liberation theology: The recovery of Biblical radicalism.” American Political Science Review 82, no. 2 (1988): 549-566.

Iglesias, Elizabeth M., and Francisco Valdes. “Religion, gender, sexuality, race and class in coalitional theory: A critical and self-critical analysis of LatCrit social justice agendas.” Chicano-Latino L. Rev. 19 (1998): 503.

disease, Education, Health, Public health

The Surprising Link Between Dental Health and Brain Function

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Introduction

From a young age, we have always been told to take care of our teeth for oral health and to avoid tooth loss as we grow older. However, recent research from Japan suggests that the consequences of poor dental hygiene go beyond just gum health – they may also impact our brains. Scientists have discovered a correlation between tooth loss, gum disease, and shrinkage in the hippocampus, a brain region associated with memory and Alzheimer’s disease. These findings raise important considerations about preserving not only gum health but also brain health.

The Study and Its Implications

One hundred seventy-two participants who were 55 or older participated in the study by researchers at Tohoku University in Japan. At the beginning of the study, the participants underwent memory tests, and data on their general health and medical history were collected. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were performed to measure the hippocampus volume at the start of the study and four years later.

Dentists counted the number of teeth and examined periodontal probing depth (PD) to assess gum disease. According to the researchers, the number of teeth and the severity of gum disease affected the volume of the left hippocampus. Individuals with mild gum disease and fewer teeth experienced faster shrinkage in the left hippocampus. Surprisingly, one less tooth was found to increase the rate of brain shrinkage in people with mild gum disease, comparable to an additional year of brain aging.

On the other hand, individuals with severe gum disease and more teeth showed a faster rate of brain shrinkage in the same region. An additional tooth in those with severe gum disease led to left hippocampus shrinkage equivalent to 1.3 years of brain aging.

Promoting Dental Health for Cognitive Well-being

While this study does not establish a causal relationship, it highlights the significance of oral health in relation to cognitive function. Dentists and healthcare professionals must consider the potential impact of dental health on brain health when making critical decisions about patients’ oral care. It also emphasizes the importance of regular dental visits and proper management of gum disease.

Although the study had a small sample size and focused on one region, further research on more extensive and diverse populations is necessary to generalize the results. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder that maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for oral health and cognitive well-being.

Conclusion

The link between dental health and brain function adds a new dimension to our understanding of the importance of oral care. Tooth loss and gum disease have been associated with changes in the hippocampus, a brain region essential for memory and impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. While more research is needed to establish the causal relationship, these findings emphasize the need to prioritize dental health to preserve our smiles and cognitive abilities. So, next time you brush your teeth, remember that you are caring not just for your gums but also for your brain.

Cited Works
Li, Q., Ye, H., Ding, Y., Chen, G., Liu, Z., Xu, J., Chen, R., & Yang, H. (2017). Clinical characteristics of moderate-to-severe thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy in 354 Chinese cases. PLoS One, 12(5), e0176064.

Why we champion the role of the dental hygienist in south-west London?. https://www.dentistsw4.com/latest-news/why-we-champion-the-role-of-the-dental-hygienist-at-our-south-west-london-practice/

JCI Insight – Exploring the cardiac response to injury in heart transplant biopsies. https://insight.jci.org/articles/view/123674

Education, equal rights, Politics, Social Justice, White House

The Intersection of Constitutional Law and Student Loan Borrowers: Implications of a Recent Supreme Court Decision

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The United States Supreme Court is seen in Washington, U.S., March 27, 2023. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo

The United States Supreme Court is seen in Washington, U.S., March 27, 2023. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo

A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that significantly impacts student loan borrowers is evidence of the intersection between constitutional law and its effects on economics and psychology. The court’s decision against President Joe Biden’s student loan forbearance program eliminates the potential relief of up to $20,000 for graduates. This ruling, combined with the resumption of debt payments, will undoubtedly impact borrowers’ financial well-being and confidence. With the court deeming the loan forgiveness plan unconstitutional, the hopes of a more manageable financial future for approximately 43 million borrowers have been dashed. Without an alternative plan from the White House, graduates must resume making loan payments starting in October, adding further strain to their wallets and potentially affecting their financial security.

It is disheartening to witness the prevalence of complaints surrounding the repayment of student loans. It is essential to recognize that exhibiting selfishness in various aspects of life does not lead to positive outcomes. It is crucial to remember that everyone encounters situations requiring assistance and support.

Resource:
Resetting student loans brings Econ 101 lessons. https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/resetting-student-loans-brings-econ-101-lessons-2023-06-30/?fbclid=IwAR1QI0aH272qjvWVxVMOJ9M7nP4u_1MRgC22KjJ2Ln7_yyYJqD0ROrytOLM

books, Culture, Education, human rights, Politics, Social Justice

Why did the Illinois State House pass a bill prohibiting book bans in libraries, and what are the potential implications of this legislation for libraries and their patrons?

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The Illinois State House has approved a bill to prevent public and school libraries from restricting access to books and other materials. However, the bill also grants the Illinois secretary of state the power to withhold grant funding from violators. Alexi Giannoulias, the Democratic Secretary of State, started House Bill 2789. It says that libraries that want to get state grants must have a policy against book bans or follow the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights. The bill gives public libraries more freedom to buy books and protects them from attempts to censor them. Republican Rep. Martin McLaughlin expressed concern about the state dictating to local library boards. Giannoulias praised the legislation as groundbreaking and vital for defending the freedom of expression against censorship. The Illinois State Senate must now approve the bill.

What would the implication of this pass do to the educational system? The Illinois State House passed a bill prohibiting book bans in libraries to combat the practice of book censorship and support the principles of freedom of expression. The bill also aims to encourage the improvement of free public libraries and promote sharing of library resources, including digital resources. The potential implications of this legislation for libraries and their patrons are significant. Libraries must adopt a policy against book bans or adhere to the Library Bill of Rights established by the American Library Association to qualify for state grants. This may lead to increased transparency and accountability for libraries but also create tension between local library boards and the state. Additionally, the legislation may help protect patrons’ right to access information and expand their reading choices while ensuring that libraries are not subject to external limitations or censorship attempts. However, the bill’s potential impact on the availability of controversial library materials and the balance between freedom of expression and public decency may be debated.

Source

Nur Ibrahim. Did Illinois State House pass a Bill Prohibiting Book Bans in Libraries?https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/illinois-house-bill-prohibiting-book-bans-libraries/.

Behavioral Science, books, Culture, Education, education, equal rights, Ethics, government, Politics, Social Justice

Would you like to know more about Critical Race Theory?

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The term “critical race theory” refers to an interdisciplinary intellectual and social movement that originated with civil-rights activists and academics.

Illustration by Marcus Torres

Illustration by Marcus Torres

The mission of the Critical Race Theory (CRT) is to investigate the ways in which race, society, and the law interact in the United States and to contest the liberal mainstream American approach to racial justice. Along with other critical schools of thought, such as critical legal studies, which investigates the ways in which legal procedures maintain the status quo, it emerged for the first time in the 1970s. Theorists affiliated with the Critical Race Theory (CRT) contend that the social and legal construction of race serves to further the interests of white people at the detriment of people of color. Since the year 2020, conservative legislators in the United States have been attempting to outlaw or place restrictions on the teaching of CRT and other forms of anti-racism education in elementary and secondary schools. Those who support the imposition of such prohibitions believe that CRT is not only untrue but also anti-American, promotes extreme leftism, demonizes White people, and indoctrinates youngsters. However, this is a section of my dissertation study that I have completed on this subject. It is written in a way that is easy to comprehend for the lay reader who is interested in learning more about CRT. If you would to purchase a copy of my book on Amazon this is the link: https://www.amazon.com/Critical-Race-Theory-Addressing-Prejudice/dp/B096TJMS4Y/ref=sr_1_7?crid=31E5LGF2EAXTG&keywords=Kenneth+Dantzler+Corbin&qid=1660858504&sprefix=kenneth+dantzler+corbin%2Caps%2C1501&sr=8-7

Culture, Education, education, equal rights, Ethics, government, human rights, Politics, Public health, Science, Social Justice, White House

Did you know that there will likely be further demonstrations this weekend in response to the agony and anger caused by the Supreme Court’s decision about abortion?

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According to authorities, tear gas was deployed to disperse protesters outside the Arizona State Capitol. Numerous protestors gathered in New York City’s Washington Square Park to oppose the judgment. Anti-abortion protestors were there, although they maintained a low profile. Following the demonstration, at least 20 individuals were “taken into jail with charges pending” throughout the city. In 2019, the biggest proportion of abortions performed on women requesting the procedure were performed on black women.

According to the statistics, they also had the highest abortion rate, with 23,8 abortions per 1,000 women. Black women who are pregnant or have just given birth are three to four times more likely to die than White women in the same circumstances. Friday, after the Supreme Court reverses Roe v. Wade, anti-abortion groups protest in Washington, D.C. Champagne is consumed by anti-abortion activists in front of the Supreme Court. Rachel Herring, an anti-abortion campaigner, said, “According to Judaism, life starts with the first breath, when the soul enters the body.”

Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, supporters for abortion rights pound on the doors of the Arizona State Senate. On Friday, June 24, anti-abortion demonstrators celebrate in front of the US Supreme Court in Washington, DC. An anti-abortion activist wears socks that proclaim “abortion is cruel” while arguing with an abortion rights activist. On Friday, Jill McElroy and her nine-year-old daughter Meriam joined in an abortion rights rally in front of the Supreme Court. She stated, “A lesson we have always taught our children is that they are the masters of their own bodies, and the Court’s ruling today goes against that, and as a family, we believe that’s wrong.”

Champagne is consumed by anti-abortion activists in front of the Supreme Court. I was there at the moment the decision was made. I am delighted. Earlier, I was walking on air, says pro-life activist Noah Slayter. Friday, the phrase “Our bodies, our choices” is spray-painted on a temporary wall in Washington, D.C.

Following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, pro-choice protestors pound on the doors of the Arizona State Senate on Friday. Outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, an anti-abortion protester wears socks that proclaim “abortion is cruel.” In Arizona and Arkansas, abortion providers have began discontinuing their services. Dr. DeShawn Taylor remarked that she anticipates a period of darkness, albeit hopefully not for too long.

Approximately twenty abortion appointments originally planned for Friday through next week were canceled by Taylor’s facility. The head of Planned Parenthood said, “The majority of patients were desperate or scared” before to Friday’s Supreme Court ruling on abortion availability in certain states. A new legislation in California shields anybody conducting, helping, or receiving an abortion from any prospective civil action originating from outside the state. A clinic owner in Mississippi said that a woman should not have to leave the state to get medical treatment.