SOFTWARE FOR THE ANALYSIS OF 3D BIOLOGICAL DATA SETS

By Adam McCann

Abstract:
This project is the creation of a software interface and data processing toolbox tailored to the specific needs of a neurobiology research group. The project scope and requirements were set in collaboration between Cornell University’s Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and Cornell’s Department of Neurobiology and Behavior. The data set and characterization process are essential to the research conclusions of the Harris-Warrick group in Cornell's Neurobiology Department. The data set is a sequence of greyscale 2D images taken from a confocal microscope at different depths. The process of characterizing the data set involves segmentation according to intensity and geometric shape within a unique noise environment imposed by the confocal microscope. Prior to my project's completion, the research group was only able to perform this analysis manually in 2D. The application of image processing techniques to this biological context provides value to the researcher by improving the precision and accuracy of measurements as well reducing the time and frustration encountered through manual data characterization.

Full report (pdf)

Poster

Code

Code and examples (25 Mbytes)