Nikon fights backlash to microscope video contest winner after AI claims

Nikon is investigating claims that the winning video of its Small World in Motion 2026 contest, showing airway cilia in a child, may have involved AI beyond allowed image processing. Dr. Ning Xu, the entrant, denies AI was used to generate the cilia or their motion but admits to AI-assisted visualization. Critics question the authenticity of the cilia movements and sizes shown in the video.