We describe a new technique for differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy, which
digitally generates phase gradient images independently of gradient orientation. To prove
the principle we investigated specimens recorded at different orientations on a microscope
equipped with a precision rotating stage and using regular DIC optics. The digitally
generated images successfully displayed and measured phase gradients, independently of
gradient orientation. One could also generate images showing distribution of optical path …

We describe a combined orientation-independent differential interference contrast OI-DIC
and polarization microscope and its biological applications. Several conventional DIC
images were recorded with the specimen oriented in different directions followed by digital
alignment and processing of the images. Then the obtained images are used for
computation of the phase gradient magnitude and azimuth distribution and, further, the
phase image. The OI-DIC images were obtained using optics having numerical aperture …