Abstract: The present application includes methods, systems and computer readable storage devices for determining a color score for at least a portion of a biological tissue. The subject matter of the application is embodied in a method that includes obtaining a digital image of the biological tissue, and receiving a selection of a portion of the image as an evaluation area. The method also includes determining for each of a plurality of pixels within the evaluation area, a plurality of color components that are based on a Cartesian color space, and determining, from the color components, a hue value in a polar coordinate based color space. The method further includes determining a color value based on the hue value for each of the plurality of pixels, and assigning a color score to the evaluation area based on an average of the color values of the plurality of pixels.

Abstract: The invention provides a microsphere formulation for the sustained delivery of an aptamer, for example, an anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor aptamer, to a preselected locus in a mammal, such as the eye. In addition, the invention provides methods for making such formulations, and methods of using such formulations to deliver an aptamer to a preselected locus in a mammal. In particular, the invention provides a method for delivering the aptamer to an eye for the treatment of an ocular disorder, for example, age-related macular degeneration.

Abstract: Methods for generating cells of the inner ear, e.g., hair cells and supporting cells, from stem cells, e.g., mesenchymal stem cells, are provided, as well as compositions including the inner ear cells. Methods for the therapeutic use of the inner ear cells for the treatment of hearing loss are also described.

Abstract: Methods for treating neurodegeneration, e.g., sensorineural hearing loss, or a demyelinating disease, using bisphosphonates, ERK kinase inhibitors, and osteoprotegerin (OPG) proteins or nucleic acids.