Nikon announced the disqualification of the winning entry in its Small World In Motion competition, an annual contest recognizing microscopic photography and videography that has operated for 15 years. The organization determined that the submission violated competition rules regarding the use of generative artificial intelligence in its creation.
The winning video was submitted by Dr Ning Xu from Tsinghua University in China and depicted cilia, hair-like structures found in the airway of a child with a respiratory condition known as PCD (primary ciliary dyskinesia). Following initial concerns raised by other scientists on social media platforms, Nikon conducted a thorough re-evaluation of the entry and consulted with members of its judging panel before reaching its decision.
Numerous scientists, including former judges associated with the competition, had raised objections to the video’s authenticity, posting concerns on Nikon’s LinkedIn page. Dr Robert Hirst from the University of Leicester and lead scientist for the NHS centre for PCD diagnosis stated he identified the video as fabricated immediately upon viewing it. Based on his two decades of experience diagnosing PCD by examining cilia characteristics, Hirst noted that the cellular structures in the video bore no resemblance to those typically observed in PCD patients.
Xu acknowledged using AI technology in creating the video but maintained that he believed his approach complied with the competition guidelines. He cooperated with Nikon’s investigation into the matter. Nikon stated that its decision did not constitute a judgment on the entrant’s professional standing or scientific contributions. The organization indicated it would review and potentially revise the rules and procedures governing future iterations of the contest. Hirst emphasized that the controversy surrounding the entry had affected patients, scientists, medical professionals, and support networks for the condition worldwide.
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