====== DIC Processor ======

**This ImageJ plugin-filter processes images of differential interference contrast microscopy (DIC) of sparse objects on a uniform background. It converts a differentiated image (seemingly illuminated from the side), with one side darker and one brighter than the background, into an image where the objects stand out as a bright (or dark) entities.**


===== Features =====

The image has to be converted to 32 bits (Image>Type>32-bits).

The plugin only works if the gradients are in the horizontal (x) direction;
either have the DIC set up oriented accordingly or rotate the image.
Before rotating the image, apply a [[plugin:filter:highpass_filter:start|highpass filter]].

For good results, dark spots from dust in the optics or on the camera sensor should be avoided. If necessary, apply dark frame and flat field corrections to the image.

===== Description =====

{{ :plugin:filter:dic_processor:dic_processor_screenshot.jpg|Screenshot}}
The plugin does three steps:
  - High-pass filter in x direction, may be deselected if a high-pass filter has been applied to the image before (put the sigma to 0).
  - Integration along the image lines.
  - High-pass filter in x direction.

Instead of the second high-pass filter, it would be better to apply a 1D 'sliding paraboloid' background subtraction; this would avoid the dark background strips left&right of the objects (but I did not have time to implement it). With the current version, you have to play with the smoothing parameters to reduce these artifacts.

===== Installation =====

Download the source code or .class file and rename to DIC_Processor.java or DIC_Processor.class, respectively. Uppercase/lowercase matters. Put in to the ImageJ/plugins directory or an immediate subdirectory thereof.

===== Version =====

2020-Feb-28 1st version.

===== Download =====

{{ :plugin:filter:dic_processor:dic_processor.java |Source code}}, for 'Compile & Run' on ImageJ 1.\\
{{ :plugin:filter:dic_processor:dic_processor.class |.class file}}, if 'Compile & Run' does not work (ImageJ2).

===== License =====

Public domain. This plugin is provided on an "AS IS" BASIS and WITHOUT WARRANTY.

===== Author =====

Michael Schmid