In 2020, amidst the global uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Katrine Wallace, PhD, an epidemiologist and assistant professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, found herself a go-to resource for her friends and family seeking reliable information. Seeking to inform and alleviate their fears, she took to social media to create educational videos that quickly gained traction. The Rise of a Social Media Educator Initially, Wallace’s social media presence was modest, primarily serving her close circle. “I would make a daily update, and my accounts were small at the time, mostly for family and friends. Those started getting shared with other people and before I knew it, my accounts got bigger,” Wallace told Healthline. Today, her TikTok account boasts over 280,000 followers, while her Instagram has nearly 90,000. She continues to share crucial public health information about COVID-19 and other health-related topics, actively debunking misinformation that circulates online. “There is a flood of bad information out there that is put out by people trying to sell stuff online, so I try to point people to the CDC or other sources made for lay people like their public health department,” Wallace explained. Battling Misinformation Wallace never anticipated becoming an “influencer.” However, the prevalence of dangerous health misinformation and conspiracy theories on social media has driven her to persist in her efforts. “I’m giving people the tools to have those conversations with their coworkers, with their family, with their uncle at Thanksgiving who thinks the vaccine has microchips in it,” she said. “Hopefully it has ripple effects and gets the message out there.” The Influence of Social Media on Health Information A recent survey by the personal trainer app Zing Coach revealed that 56% of Gen Z users turn to TikTok for health and wellness advice. For 1 in 3, TikTok is their primary source of health knowledge. “Gen Z isn’t exactly the picture of perfect health — more than half of 18- to 25-year-old Americans are overweight — but it’s not for a lack of desire. Zing’s research shows considerable interest in pursuing health and well-being among the younger demographic,” Walter Gjergja, Chief Wellness Officer at Zing Coach, told Healthline. The Cost Factor “They’re just not as willing or able to pay for a personal trainer or work with a qualified doctor. Instead, they turn to TikTok, Google, and YouTube for advice because it’s fast and free,” said Gjergja. However, this reliance on social media exposes them to misinformation and body confidence issues. Aaron B. Zimmerman, optometrist and associate professor of clinical optometry at The Ohio State University, recounted a case where a patient suffered permanent retinal damage after following a TikTok video that endorsed staring at the sun for health benefits. The Reality of Misinformation The Zing Coach survey found that 1 in 3 people admitted they don’t double-check the wellness advice they get from TikTok, while 1 in 10 said that a high number of likes or followers is enough to make the influencer trustworthy, regardless of their professional background. “When we see an account with millions of followers and videos with an endless stream of positive comments from other users, our first thought is that the information shared must be true. However, likes and engagement are by no means an indication of an influencer’s trustworthiness,” Gjergja pointed out. The Dark Side of Social Influence For many influencers, social media is a source of income, and some spread misinformation if it pays well enough. Additionally, Wallace noted that the more sensational and compelling a video is, the more it spreads. “Conspiracy theories get millions of views because people think they have a secret the government doesn’t want them to know,” she said. “The algorithms work in a way that if you’re following people who put out misinformation, then you’re consistently getting bad information, and if you’re getting all your information from there then there is a big percentage of people who are not getting fact-based information.” The Challenge of Combating Misinformation Calling out dishonest influencers can feel like shouting into the void. “You could leave a message calling out the misinformation. However, it will soon get buried under a stream of comments from loyal fans who staunchly believe everything social media’s popular personalities say,” Gjergja said. Reporting Misinformation Wallace added that the effort of reporting misinformation often doesn’t feel worth it if people don’t believe the platform will remove the video. “There are videos I report that say the vaccine has HIV in it, and it will come back as it doesn’t violate community guidelines. I’ve even had anti-Semitic things come back as not violating guidelines,” she said. “[Platforms] get paid whether it’s good or bad information.” She pointed to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, legislation passed in 1996, which declares that service providers or individuals are not to be held liable for illegal content posted online by other people. “The way accountability can start is by changing that legislation because now we have very far outgrown it. It still enables the platforms to do nothing about misinformation,” she said. “Platforms have no incentive to [take action] because they make money the more things go viral and the more they keep engagement going.” Legal Accountability and Health Information Holding people legally accountable for producing content and videos that contain misinformation is complex. Even if they know they are misleading or potentially harming others, they can claim their content is for entertainment reasons. Banning material is a delicate issue that could violate the First Amendment. “If people are harmed and there is strong evidence of malice by the content generator(s), then perhaps there are legal avenues that can be pursued,” said Zimmerman. However, he believes the best approach is to counter bad health information with evidence-based content produced by reputable individuals and organizations. Trustworthy Sources of Health Information There are qualified experts on TikTok and other social media platforms who aim to provide genuine, honest, and accurate health information. When seeking medical advice, look for

Prince Harry Awarded 2024 Pat Tillman Award for Service Amid Controversy Prince Harry has been honored with the 2024 Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPYS event in Los Angeles, a recognition that has sparked a significant backlash. The award, named after Pat Tillman, the former NFL player who left his lucrative career with the Arizona Cardinals to serve in the Army Rangers following the 9/11 attacks and was tragically killed in Afghanistan in 2004, has traditionally been reserved for unsung heroes. This year’s selection of the Duke of Sussex has been met with criticism, notably from Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary Tillman, who expressed her surprise and disappointment. The Legacy of Pat Tillman Pat Tillman’s decision to leave behind a promising NFL career to serve his country remains one of the most poignant examples of sacrifice and dedication. His legacy is celebrated through the Pat Tillman Award for Service, which honors individuals who embody similar values. Tillman’s Sacrifice Left a lucrative contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Joined the Army Rangers after the 9/11 attacks. Killed in action in Afghanistan in 2004. The Controversy Surrounding Prince Harry’s Selection The choice of Prince Harry as this year’s recipient has not been universally well-received. Mary Tillman, in particular, has voiced her concerns, stating that there are others more fitting for the accolade. Mary Tillman’s Reaction Mary Tillman told The Daily Mail she was “shocked” by the selection, arguing that there are “more fitting” recipients. She described Prince Harry as “a controversial and divisive individual” and highlighted that many unsung heroes working in the veteran community do not have the same resources or connections as the Duke of Sussex. Prince Harry’s Contribution to the Veteran Community Despite the backlash, ESPN defended their choice by pointing to Prince Harry’s significant contributions through The Invictus Games Foundation, which he founded. The Invictus Games is a sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women, promoting resilience, community, and healing through sport. The Invictus Games Foundation Founded by Prince Harry. Celebrates its 10th anniversary. Aims to promote healing through sport for military service members and veterans globally. Prince Harry’s Acceptance Speech At the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Prince Harry delivered an emotional acceptance speech, expressing gratitude to the Pat Tillman Foundation. He emphasized that the award belongs to the Invictus Games Foundation and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have contributed to its success. Key Points from Prince Harry’s Speech Acknowledged the collective effort behind the Invictus Games. Highlighted the importance of recognizing the achievements, spirit, and courage of veterans and their families. Noted the positive impact of the Invictus Games on reducing veteran suicides. Reactions and Statements The controversy did not go unnoticed by ESPN, who issued a statement reaffirming their decision. They emphasized the significant impact of the Invictus Games Foundation and acknowledged that not everyone would agree with their choice. ESPN’s Statement Honored Prince Harry for his work with The Invictus Games Foundation. Highlighted the foundation’s role in promoting healing through sport for military service members and veterans. Recognized that opinions on award recipients may vary. Previous Pat Tillman Award Recipients The Pat Tillman Award for Service has been awarded to numerous individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and service, often under challenging circumstances. Notable Past Recipients Damar Hamlin: Presented the award to the Buffalo Bills training staff who saved his life during a game. Steve Gleason: Former NFL safety recognized for his fight against ALS. Dawn Staley: University of South Carolina women’s basketball head coach honored for perseverance. FAQs What is the Pat Tillman Award for Service? The Pat Tillman Award for Service is an honor given at the ESPYS to individuals who have demonstrated remarkable service and dedication, often in the face of adversity. Why was Prince Harry chosen for the award? Prince Harry was selected for his tireless work with The Invictus Games Foundation, which promotes healing through sport for military service members and veterans. What is the controversy surrounding Prince Harry’s selection? The controversy stems from criticism that there are other more fitting recipients, particularly those who do not have the same resources or connections as Prince Harry. What impact has The Invictus Games Foundation had? The Invictus Games Foundation has made a significant positive impact by promoting resilience, community, and healing through sport for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women. How did ESPN respond to the backlash? ESPN reaffirmed their decision, highlighting the significant contributions of The Invictus Games Foundation and acknowledging that opinions on award recipients may differ. Conclusion The decision to award Prince Harry the 2024 Pat Tillman Award for Service has sparked a significant debate, reflecting broader discussions about privilege, recognition, and the true meaning of service. While the controversy continues, it is undeniable that Prince Harry’s work with The Invictus Games Foundation has made a positive impact on the veteran community. As the conversation evolves, it underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse contributions of those who serve.

Enhancing Performance in Challenging Lighting Conditions: A Comprehensive Technology Report In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, ensuring optimal performance in various lighting conditions is an essential challenge that many industries face. Whether it’s for security, photography, or industrial applications, the ability to operate efficiently in low light or high-contrast environments is crucial. This report, crafted in collaboration with Hikvision, delves into the advancements and solutions designed to enhance performance in challenging lighting conditions. Our updated Privacy Policy now reflects GDPR compliance, and we use cookies to enhance your online experience. For more details, please refer to our Cookie Policy. Understanding the Challenges of Difficult Lighting The Impact of Low Light on Technology Low-light conditions can severely affect the functionality of cameras, sensors, and other light-dependent technologies. These challenges are prevalent in various fields such as security surveillance, photography, and even autonomous vehicles. Key Issues in Low Light: – Reduced Visibility: Inadequate lighting can obscure important details, making it difficult to capture clear images or recognize objects. – Noise Interference: Low light often leads to increased noise in images, which can distort the information captured. – Slower Processing: Devices may take longer to process images in low light, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors. High-Contrast Environments High-contrast environments, where there is a significant difference between the darkest and brightest areas, present another set of challenges. These conditions are common in outdoor settings, especially during sunrise or sunset, and in indoor spaces with uneven lighting. Problems in High-Contrast Settings: – Overexposure: Bright areas can become overexposed, losing critical details. – Underexposure: Dark areas may become underexposed, hiding important information. – Dynamic Range Limitations: Many devices struggle to balance the dynamic range, leading to images that lack detail in both bright and dark areas. Technological Solutions to Lighting Challenges Advanced Sensor Technology Modern sensors are designed to handle varying lighting conditions more effectively. Innovations in sensor technology have led to significant improvements in image quality and device performance. Features of Advanced Sensors: – Higher Sensitivity: Enhanced sensitivity allows sensors to capture more light, improving performance in low-light conditions. – Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): WDR technology helps balance the exposure in high-contrast environments, ensuring details are visible in both bright and dark areas. – Noise Reduction: Advanced noise reduction techniques minimize the interference caused by low light, resulting in clearer images. Enhanced Camera Capabilities Cameras equipped with the latest technologies are better suited to handle challenging lighting conditions. Hikvision, for example, has developed several solutions to enhance camera performance. Innovative Camera Features: – Low-Light Optimization: Cameras with low-light optimization technologies can capture clear images even in near darkness. – Infrared (IR) Illumination: IR illumination provides additional light that is invisible to the human eye but enhances camera performance in low-light conditions. – Smart Algorithms: AI-driven algorithms can adjust settings in real-time to adapt to changing lighting conditions, ensuring optimal image quality. Software and Processing Enhancements Software plays a crucial role in managing and improving performance in challenging lighting conditions. Advanced processing techniques can significantly enhance the quality of the captured data. Key Software Solutions: – Real-Time Adjustment: Software that adjusts exposure, contrast, and brightness in real-time can vastly improve image quality. – Image Stitching: Combining multiple images taken at different exposures can create a single, balanced image with enhanced detail. – Predictive Analysis: Predictive algorithms can anticipate lighting changes and adjust settings preemptively to maintain performance. Practical Applications and Benefits Security and Surveillance In the realm of security, the ability to capture clear images in any lighting condition is paramount. Enhanced performance in low light and high-contrast settings can lead to better surveillance outcomes. Security Benefits: – Improved Identification: Clearer images enhance the ability to identify individuals and objects, crucial for security and law enforcement. – 24/7 Surveillance: Technologies that perform well in low light enable continuous monitoring, improving overall security. – Reduced False Alarms: Enhanced image quality reduces the likelihood of false alarms caused by poor visibility or noise. Photography and Videography For photographers and videographers, mastering lighting conditions is a key aspect of their craft. Advanced technologies help professionals capture stunning images and videos, regardless of the environment. Creative Advantages: – Greater Flexibility: Enhanced performance in various lighting conditions provides more creative freedom for photographers and videographers. – High-Quality Output: Improved image quality in challenging lighting ensures that the final output is professional-grade. – Time Efficiency: With better performance, professionals spend less time adjusting settings and more time focusing on their creative vision. Industrial and Autonomous Applications Industries and autonomous systems also benefit significantly from advancements in handling difficult lighting conditions. This is particularly relevant for sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, and robotics. Industrial Benefits: – Increased Accuracy: Enhanced sensor and camera performance leads to more accurate data collection and analysis. – Operational Efficiency: Improved lighting management reduces downtime and increases operational efficiency. – Safety Enhancements: Better visibility in low light enhances the safety of autonomous systems and industrial operations. FAQs What are the main challenges of low-light conditions? Low-light conditions can reduce visibility, increase noise interference, and slow down processing times, making it difficult for technologies to function effectively. How does Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology help in high-contrast environments? WDR technology balances the exposure in high-contrast environments, ensuring that details are visible in both the darkest and brightest areas. What role does infrared (IR) illumination play in enhancing camera performance? IR illumination provides additional light that is invisible to the human eye but enhances camera performance in low-light conditions, allowing for clearer images. How do smart algorithms improve image quality in changing lighting conditions? Smart algorithms adjust camera settings in real-time to adapt to changing lighting conditions, ensuring optimal image quality at all times. Why is enhanced performance in challenging lighting important for security applications? Enhanced performance ensures clearer images, better identification, continuous monitoring, and reduced false alarms, which are crucial for effective security and surveillance. Conclusion Navigating the complexities of challenging lighting conditions requires a combination of advanced sensor technology, innovative camera capabilities, and sophisticated software solutions. The collaboration