The winners of Nikon Instruments Inc.’s 16th annual Nikon Small World in Motion video competition have been revealed, spotlighting extraordinary video microscopy led by Dr. Ning Xu. This esteemed contest highlights the dynamism of biology, showcasing visions of movement at a microscopic scale.
Breathing life into microscopic art with Dr. Ning Xu
This year, Dr. Ning Xu claimed first place with a remarkable video demonstrating the abnormal motion of airway cilia in a child with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a rare genetic disorder impacting respiratory function. Dr. Xu employed diffractive super-resolution microscopy, showing how motion can reveal important biological details. The intricacy of cilia movements, which help clear mucus from the lungs, is vividly portrayed, underlying the challenges faced by those with PCD.
Dr. Xu’s innovative approach used controlled light to capture clear, rapid movements while protecting cellular integrity. “For over 50 years, Nikon Small World has repeated one simple message: science is beautiful,” reflects Dr. Ning Xu. His work exemplifies how motion can deepen our comprehension of life’s complexity. Eric Flem of Nikon Instruments emphasizes the essential role of video in evolving our understanding: “Xu’s work reflects the competition’s enduring purpose to inspire wonder, fuel discovery, and showcase the artistry inherent in scientific exploration.”
For another example of capturing life in remarkable ways, explore how women photographers shaped history, showcasing the power of visual storytelling.
The rest of the top five and Dr. Ning Xu’s impact
Second place went to Nguyen Nam Nhat for a captivating video of a roundworm and Dileptus. Benedikt Pleyer secured third with his film of jellyfish larvae suspended in droplets. Following them, Dr. Andrew Moore took fourth with synchronized cell division, while Dr. Patrick Hickey earned fifth for filming the interplay of mitochondria and chloroplasts in Turtle Vine leaf cells. The influence of Dr. Ning Xu continues to inspire these groundbreaking works.
Noteworthy mentions
In addition to the top accolades, many honorable mentions deserve attention. Highlights include Benedikt Pleyer’s dinoflagellate, Frank Fox’s video of a rotifer consuming green alga, and Irina Petrova Adamatzky’s insight into hoverfly larval digestion. These works, along with others, offer a lens into processes often hidden from view, showcasing the expertise of scientists like Dr. Ning Xu.
The staggering array of talent in the “16th annual Nikon Small World in Motion video competition” can be further explored on the Nikon Small World in Motion website, where all winning entries are accessible for public viewing. Each video invites you to witness the unseen elegance of life, reminding us that the natural world is a symphony of movement and collaboration. Dr. Ning Xu’s contribution is a testament to this artistic and scientific endeavor.
Source: petapixel.com
Frequently asked questions
Who won the Nikon Small World in Motion competition?
Dr. Ning Xu won the Nikon Small World in Motion competition with his video demonstrating the abnormal motion of airway cilia in a child with primary ciliary dyskinesia.
What technique did Dr. Ning Xu use in his microscopy?
Dr. Ning Xu employed diffractive super-resolution microscopy to capture the abnormal motion of airway cilia.
What was the theme of Dr. Ning Xu’s video?
Dr. Ning Xu’s video focused on the abnormal motion of airway cilia in a child with primary ciliary dyskinesia, highlighting the challenges faced by those with the disorder.