A Chinese optical engineer has taken home the top prize in Nikon's Small World in Motion video contest, beating entries from 40 countries. Ning Xu of Tsinghua University in Beijing captured a super-resolution video of abnormal cilia movement in a child with a rare respiratory disorder.

The competition, launched in 2011 as a spinoff of Nikon's long-running Small World Photomicrography Competition, showcases the beauty and complexity of microscopic images and videos. This year's winner's entry highlights the intricate workings of cilia, which, in people with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD), fail to move correctly, leading to respiratory issues.

PCD is a genetic condition that affects the tiny hair-like structures lining the lungs, among other areas. These cilia help move germs, mucus, and other irritants out of the body. In those born with PCD, the cilia may be misshapen, the wrong size, or non-functional, leading to a buildup of irritants and respiratory infections.

The video contest not only highlights the technological advancements in microscopy but also underscores the importance of these tools in medical research and diagnosis. It brings the invisible world of cellular biology into view, making it accessible and fascinating for everyone.