Abstract: A segmentation system processes images of a sample that includes fluorescent entities. The segmentation system applies a threshold image that represents background illumination distinct from fluorescence of target entities to pre-process the images. The segmentation system determines numbers of target entities in pre-processed images and determines whether an estimated number of target entities in the sample meets a threshold certainty. The segmentation system continues to analyze one or more images until the threshold certainty is determined. When the threshold certainty is met, the estimated number of target entities may be used to generate a user interface output (e.g., displaying the pre-processed images and visual indicators of the locations of target entities.

Abstract: A polarization dependent loss measuring device and the method of using the same are disclosed. The device includes a light source, a sensor, and a controller. The light source generates a polarization modulated light signal, and is adapted to apply the polarization modulated light signal to a device under test. The sensor generates an electrical output signal representing an intensity of an output light signal leaving the device under test as a function of time. The controller measures an amplitude and phase of the electrical output signal at a first frequency and generates an output indicative of a polarization dependent loss in the device under test.

Abstract: An optical coupling system is disclosed. The optical coupling system includes a first optical element, a second optical element and a layer of an optically transmissive elastic material disposed between the first optical element and the second optical element. At least one of the first optical element and the second optical element has a surface facing the elastic layer that is non-planar across the surface. An optical element having the non-planar surface is also disclosed.