Abstract: A polarization-separated, phase-shifted interferometer can generate interferograms without moving parts. It uses a phase shifter, such as an electro-optic phase modulator, to modulate the relative phase between sample and reference beams. These beams are transformed into orthogonal polarization states (e.g., horizontally and vertically polarized states) and coupled via a common path (e.g., polarization-maintaining fiber) to a polarizing beam splitter (PBS), which sends them into separate sample and reference arms. Quarter-wave plates in the sample and reference arms rotate the polarization states of the sample and reference beams so they are coupled out of the PBS to a detector via a 45° linear polarizer. The polarizer projects the aligned polarization components of the sample and reference beams onto the detector, where they interfere with known relative phase to produce an output that can be used to map surface topography of the test object.

Abstract: A pressure vacuum vent is disclosed which has a pressure plate having an opening, a diaphragm positioned on the pressure plate, a sealing ring for holding the diaphragm to the pressure plate, a sealing plate positioned on the diaphragm, a retaining ring for retaining the sealing ring, a screw having a cap having a vent opening, and a spring positioned between the cap and the sealing plate.

Abstract: A pressure vacuum vent is disclosed which has a pressure plate having an opening, a diaphragm positioned on the pressure plate, a sealing ring for holding the diaphragm to the pressure plate, a sealing plate positioned on the diaphragm, a retaining ring for retaining the sealing ring, a screw having a cap having a vent opening, and a spring positioned between the cap and the sealing plate

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and biomarkers for detection and characterization of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in biological samples (e.g., tissue samples, blood samples, plasma samples, cell samples, serum samples). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for diagnosing a patient as having a Langerhans cell histiocytosis by identifying mutations in the MAP2K1 gene or gene products.