High Performance Computing Techniques for Scaling Image Analysis Workflows

Abstract

Biomedical images are intrinsically complex with each domain and modality often requiring specialized knowledge to accurately render diagnosis and plan treatment. A general software framework that provides access to high-performance resources can make possible high-throughput investigations of micro-scale features as well as algorithm design, development and evaluation. In this paper we describe the requirements and challenges of supporting microscopy analyses of large datasets of high-resolution biomedical images. We present high-performance computing approaches for storage and retrieval of image data, image processing, and management of analysis results for additional explorations. Lastly, we describe issues surrounding the use of high performance computing for scaling image analysis workflows.