Bentonite-supplemented diets improved fish performance ammonia excretion haemato-biochemical analyses immunity antioxidants and histological characteristics of European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax.

The purpose of this research was to examine the potential effects of bentonite (BN) supplemented diets on growth, feed utilization, blood biochemistry, and histomorphology of Dicentrarchus labrax. Six treatments in triplicate were tested: B0, B0.5, B1.0, B1.5, B3.0, and B4.5, which represented fish groups fed diets supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, and 4.5% BN, respectively. For 84 days, juveniles' seabass (initial weight = 32.73 g) were fed diets containing 46% protein, three times daily at 3% of body weight. With a 5% daily water exchange, underground seawater (32 ppt) was used. Findings revealed significant improvements in water quality (TAN and NH3), growth (FW, WG and SGR) and feed utilization (FCR, PER and PPV) in fish fed BN-supplemented diets, with the best values in favor of the B1.5 group. Additional enhancements in kidney function indicators (urea and uric acid) and liver enzymes were observed in fish of the BN-treated groups along with a decrease in cholesterol level in the B1.5 group. Further improvements in fish innate immunity (hemoglobin, red blood cells, glucose, total protein, globulin, and immunoglobulin IgM), antioxidant activity (total antioxidative capacity and catalase), and decreased cortisol levels in fish of the BN-treated groups. Histological examinations of the anterior and posterior intestines and liver in groups B1.5 and B3 revealed the healthiest organs. This study recommends BN at a concentration of 1.5% as a feed additive in the Dicentrarchus labrax diet.

Natural zeolite for heavy metal, ammonia removal, and physiological responses in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles tanks with different densities.

The present study aims to investigate the influence of zeolite usage and stocking densities on various parameters, including ammonia removal from water, accumulation of heavy metals in fish organs, water quality, growth performance, feed efficiency, muscle composition, as well as hematological and biochemical parameters in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) over a 90-day duration. A total of 2400 D. labrax with an initial weight of 9.83 ± 2.02 g and initial length of 9.37 ± 0.32 cm were distributed among 24 tanks. The research involved six distinct treatment groups, with two different zeolite levels (0 and 15 ppt) and three stocking density levels (50, 100, and 150 fish/m3), each replicated four times. The results of the research demonstrate a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in water quality measures with the introduction of zeolite. The successful implementation of this amendment mitigated the adverse effects of fish density on water quality parameters. Higher stocking density negatively impacted European sea bass growth, feed utilization, and hemato-biochemical indicators. Zeolite use effectively alleviated these adverse effects, particularly on performance, feed utilization, hematological, and biochemical parameters. The study's results indicate that the utilization of zeolite has shown to be efficacious in mitigating the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs, while concurrently augmenting fish attributes. However, the increase in density led to a significant decrease in the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs. The present study highlights the capacity of natural zeolites to mitigate the negative consequences associated with water quality concerns. The efficiency of these zeolites in limiting the accessibility of heavy metals in polluted water is shown, hence minimizing their accumulation in fish organs. In addition, the improvement of fish performance has the capacity to have a beneficial influence on both the well-being and efficiency of fish in aquaculture. Additional research is essential to fully understand the complex molecular pathways involved in utilizing natural zeolite under different fish densities.

Dietary Wood and Activated Charcoal Improved Ammonium Removal, Heavy Metals Detoxification, Growth Performance, Blood Biochemistry, Carcass Traits, and Histopathology of European Seabass.

A 120-day growth trial was completed to assess rearing water quality and fish performance in terms of growth, feed efficacy, digestive enzymes, immunity, and antioxidant activity of seabass fed an experimental diet (ED) supplemented with commercial wood charcoal (WC) and activated wood charcoal (AC). Three levels (0, 10, and 20 g) of WC and AC were administered, representing five treatments: control (CD) fish-fed ED without additives, (WC-1) fish-fed ED containing 10 g kg-1 WC, (WC-2) fish-fed ED containing 20 g kg-1 WC, (AC-1) fish-fed ED containing 10 g kg-1 AC, and (AC-2) fish-fed ED containing 20 g kg-1 AC. Three hundred fish (60.12 ± 0.20 g/fish) were stocked in 15 cement tanks (4.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.2 m, water volume 5 m3 each) at 20 fish/tank and a daily feed ration of 3% of body weight. Results revealed significant improvements with increased growth variables (final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate), decreased FCR, and decreased ammonia levels and heavy metals (Cu, Cd, Fe, Mn, and Zn) content in rearing water, muscle, and liver with fish fed WC and AC supplemented diets. Furthermore, considerable improvements in digestive enzymes, immunity, and antioxidant activity, with enhanced kidneys, liver, intestines, gills, and spleen. Fish fed the WC-1 diet had a higher final weight (171.90 g), better FCR (1.25), and improved internal organs than the other groups.

Correlation between radial peripapillary vascular density and reduced central corneal thickness in glaucoma suspect patients.

BACKGROUND: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (OCTA) provides a quantitative assessment of the microcirculation of the retina and choroid. It may precede the retinal nerve layer (RNFL) and optic disc head defects. Retinal nerve fiber layer defects and reduced central corneal thickness (CCT) are important parameters in the assessment of a glaucoma suspect patients. The aim of this study is to investigate any possible relationship between the reduced central corneal thickness and the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) density defect in glaucoma suspect. METHODS: In this cross sectional study, 92 eyes were incorporated. Peripapillary OCT angiography (4.5 mm) and Anterior segment OCT for corneal pachymetry were done. C/D Ratio, thickness of nerve fiber layer, the blood flow indices and central corneal thickness also were evaluated. RESULTS: In eyes of glaucoma suspect patients; a significant positive correlation between CCT and total RPC density was detected (r = 0.38, P < 0.001). A strong positive correlation was also found between total RPC and peripapillary RNFL thickness (r = 0.55, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Reduced central corneal thickness and peripapillary capillary density are two screening parameters for glaucoma suspect patients. The radial peripapillary capillary density is a valid diagnostic tool for glaucoma.

Small Incision Lenticule Extraction for Correction of Pediatric Unilateral Anisometropic Myopia.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of femtosecond laser small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) on treating unilateral myopic anisometropia in children with spectacles or contact lens intolerance. METHODS: This was a retrospective study that included children with unilateral myopic anisometropic amblyopia who underwent a SMILE procedure at Alpha Vision Center, Zagazig, Egypt, from January 2014 to December 2016. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-four eyes of 124 patients were included in this study. The postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) at the 3-month and 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year follow-up visits improved significantly (P < .05) compared to the preoperative CDVA, indicating the safety of the procedure. At the 3-month postoperative visit, 23% of cases showed improvement of one or more lines of CDVA, whereas only 2% of cases showed a decline of only one line. Moreover, the postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity compared favorably to the preoperative CDVA, denoting the efficacy of the refractive correction. The spherical equivalent was within ±0.50 diopters of the intended correction in 75% of the cases and within ±1.00 diopters in 89% of the cases. The intraoperative complications were scarce and relatively innocuous. CONCLUSIONS: SMILE is a safe and effective alternative method for correcting myopic anisometropic amblyopia in children with spectacles or contact lens intolerance with good refractive results. A larger study with longer follow-up periods is necessary to determine the long-term effects of SMILE. [J Refract Surg. 2021;37(8):510-515.].

Scleral Fixation of Single-Piece Foldable IOL Using Double-Flanged Technique.

PURPOSE: To describe the efficiency and visual results of a new method of transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of single-piece foldable IOL using double-flanged 6/0 prolene suture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen aphakic eyes of 17 patients without adequate capsular support were involved in this study. Lens was prepared by passing the 6/0 prolene suture in a track in the haptic of single-piece foldable IOL created by 31 g needle. The 6/0 prolene suture was retrieved through a 30 g needle transconjunctivally to outside the globe; then, IOL was implanted and a terminal bulb was created at the outer end of the prolene suture. RESULTS: All cases were aphakic after complicated phacoemulsification. In 10 cases hydrophilic IOLs were used and in 7 cases hydrophobic IOLs were used. There is clear statistically significant difference between pre-UCVA and post- UCVA. Complications included suture slippage in 2 cases and prolene bulb exposure in one case. There was no significant difference in endothelial cell count and IOP before and after 3 months. CONCLUSION: Transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of foldable single-piece IOLs is a safe efficient method for correcting aphakia.

Double-Flanged polypropylene Suture for Scleral Fixation of Cionni Capsule Tension Ring.

PURPOSE: To describe a new technique for transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of Cionni CTR using double-flanged polypropylens suture. METHODS: This is a prospective interventional case series which included 7 cases with severe (more than 180 degrees) zonular dialysis. Three cases were hereditary lens subluxation (Marfan syndrome), 2 cases with traumatic subluxation and 2 cases with pseudo-exfoliation syndrome. RESULTS: All cases achieved a good postoperative stable and centered IOL with good visual results. No postoperative complications were recorded apart from PCO in 3 cases and mild bleeding during needle passage in one case. CONCLUSION: This described technique is a simple, time sparing and minimally invasive method for achieving good bag centration. It eliminates the need of conjunctival peritomy, subconjunctival vessels cautery and scleral fashioning of a flap, pocket or a groove. The use of 6/0 polypropylene theoretically can achieve better longevity.

Pattern of Intermediate Uveitis in an Egyptian Cohort.

Purpose: To describe the clinical experience with intermediate uveitis at six Egyptian tertiary eye centers.Methods: A multicenter retrospective chart review of all patients with intermediate uveitis seen at six ocular inflammation referral clinics in Egypt between January 2010 and January 2017.Results: The study included a total of 781 patients with intermediate uveitis. The study cohort comprised of 282 male and 499 female patients. In over half of our cohort (58.77%), no specific cause could be confirmed. The remaining patients had sarcoidosis (16.26%), tuberculosis (14.85%), multiple sclerosis (9.09%), and TINU (1.02%). By the end of our study, 62% of the affected eyes had a BCVA better than 20/40Conclusion: More than 40% of our patients with intermediate uveitis had sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis, or TINU as the underlying etiology. Owing to their potential morbidity, these diseases need to be considered in Egyptian patients presenting with intermediate uveitis.

Combined phacoemulsification and viscocanalostomy with Ologen implant versus combined phacoemulsification and viscocanalostomy.

BACKGROUND: To study the efficacy of the biodegradable collagen implant Ologen® as an adjuvant in phaco-viscocanalostomy in patients with coexisting cataract and primary open angle glaucoma. METHODS: This prospective, interventional, randomized clinical study was done at Alpha Vision Center, Zagazig, Egypt. Patients with coexisting cataract and glaucoma were randomized to receive either phaco-viscocanalostomy (Phacovisco group) (39 eyes) or phaco-viscocanalostomy with Ologen® implant (OloPhacovisco group) (40 eyes). Follow-up period was 2 years. Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture was done in cases where the intraocular pressure (IOP) was elevated above 21 mmHg after discontinuation of corticosteroid eye drops at any follow-up visit. RESULTS: No significant operative or postoperative complications (other than failure) were encountered in either group. At 2 years follow-up, the mean IOP level was statistically significantly decreased in the OloPhacovisco group (p = 0.02) and complete success occurred in 23 eyes (59.0%) in the Phacovisco group and in 32 eyes (80.0%) in the OloPhacovisco group. There was a statistically significant higher success rate regarding complete success in patients that received Ologen® implant (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Ologen® implant improved the success rate of phaco-viscocanalostomy. Larger studies with longer follow-up periods may be required to confirm these findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was retrospectively registered on 20/12/2018 under the number ( NCT03782051 ).

Conjunctival Autograft Combined With Either Preoperative Mitomycin C Injection or Intraoperative Local Mitomycin C Over the Medial Rectus Muscle Tendon in Primary Pterygium Surgery.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare the recurrence rate and complications of conjunctival autograft (CAG) combined with preoperative mitomycin C (MMC) injection versus CAG with intraoperative local MMC over the medial rectus muscle tendon in primary pterygium. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized prospective study. METHODS: This study included 108 eyes of 108 patients with primary fleshy or growing pterygium. All patients were from rural areas and less than 50 years old. Fifty-three patients were treated with injection of 0.1 mL of 0.15 mg/mL MMC into the body of pterygium followed 1 day later by pterygium excision and CAG (group I), and 55 patients were treated with pterygium excision and local application of 0.2 mg/mL MMC for 2 min over the medial rectus tendon followed by CAG (group II). The minimum follow-up period was 18 months. RESULTS: Two patients from group I and one patient from group II did not complete the follow-up period and were excluded. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding age, sex, laterality, or follow-up period. Recurrence occurred in 2 eyes in group I (3.92%) and 1 eye in group II (1.85%); (P=0.52). All recurrences occurred in male patients of less than 30 years of age. No significant complications were encountered in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Both preoperative MMC injection followed 1 day later by pterygium excision with CAG, and pterygium excision and intraoperative local application of MMC on the medial rectus tendon are successful in treating primary pterygium with low recurrence rate and few complications.

EFFICACY AND FREQUENCY OF INTRAVITREAL AFLIBERCEPT VERSUS BEVACIZUMAB FOR MACULAR EDEMA SECONDARY TO CENTRAL RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION.

PURPOSE: To compare the safety, efficacy, and frequency of intravitreal injection of aflibercept and bevacizumab for treatment of macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion. DESIGN: Prospective, comparative, randomized, interventional study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eyes with macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion were randomized between two groups according to the intravitreal injection used. Group A included eyes treated with intravitreal aflibercept, and Group B included eyes treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections. The inclusion criteria were macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion and follow-up duration of at least 12 months after the first injection. Exclusion criteria were macular ischemia, associated diabetes, hypertensive or renal retinopathy, other retinal disease, and previous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injection. The main outcome measures are central foveal thickness, best-corrected visual acuity, time intervals between injections, improved retinal nonperfusion, and any reported complication. RESULTS: Group A included 39 patients with a mean age of 57.4 ± 8.2 years. Group B included 40 eyes with a mean age of 56.5 ± 9.1 years. Twelve months after the first injection, central foveal thickness significantly improved from 475.45 ± 71.05 m to 259.11 ± 20.67 m in Group A and from 460.22 ± 89.38 m to 264.29 ± 32.05 m in Group B; best-corrected visual acuity significantly improved from 0.81 ± 0.16 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/125) to 0.34 ± 0.14 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/40) in Group A and from 0.73 ± 0.15 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/100) to 0.33 ± 0.17 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/40) in Group B; the mean number of injections was 3.72 ± 2.93 in Group A and was 5.44 ± 2.85 in Group B (P < 0.05); and the mean interval between injections was 54.23 ± 8.47 days in Group A and was 35.12 ± 7.76 days in Group B (P < 0.05). Retinal nonperfusion improved in 9/12 eyes in Group A and in 3/8 eyes in Group B (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both aflibercept and bevacizumab are comparably effective for treatment of macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion without significant complications. However, the burden of frequent intravitreal injections could be significantly reduced when using aflibercept.

Trypan blue-assisted posterior capsulorhexis in pediatric cataract surgery.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of staining the posterior capsule with trypan blue during capsulorhexis in pediatric cataract surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a prospective randomized comparative study carried out at Alpha Vision Center, Zagazig, Egypt. This study included 2 groups of children with pediatric cataract randomly allocated to undergo irrigation and aspiration. In the trypan group, which included 11 eyes, trypan blue was used to stain the posterior capsule during posterior capsulorhexis. In the control group, which included 10 eyes, no staining was performed. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. The 2 groups were compared for criteria such as completion of capsulorhexis, disruption of vitreous face and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation. RESULTS: This study included 21 eyes of 16 patients (age range: 6 months-4 years). A statistically significant difference was observed for the following parameters between the 2 groups: capsulorhexis completion (P=0.04), vitreous face disruption (P=0.01) and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation (P=0.022). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that staining of the posterior capsule during capsulorhexis in pediatric cataract operation gives better results than capsulorhexis without staining. The stain changes the capsule texture making capsulorhexis easier with fewer complications.