Continuous-Flow Magnetic Fractionation of Red Blood Cells Based on Hemoglobin Content and Oxygen Saturation—Clinical Blood Supply Implications and Sickle Cell Anemia Treatment

Overview of the Association Between the Pathophysiology, Types, and Management of Sickle Cell Disease and Stroke

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin and increases stroke risk, particularly in childhood. This review examines the pathophysiological association between SCD and stroke, the classification of stroke types, risk factors, diagnosis, management, prevention, and prognosis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted via PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases. Relevant studies on SCD and stroke pathophysiology, classification, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention were identified. Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, obstructing blood vessels. Recurrent sickling alters cerebral blood flow and damages vessel walls, often leading to ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes (HS). These occur most frequently in childhood, with ischemic strokes (IS) being more common. Key risk factors include a prior transient ischemic attack (TIA), low hemoglobin, and a high leukocyte count. Neuroimaging is essential for diagnosis and determining stroke type. Primary prevention centers on blood transfusions and hydroxyurea for those at high risk. Acute treatment involves promptly restoring blood flow and managing complications. However, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding stroke mechanisms, optimizing screening protocols, and improving long-term outcomes. This review synthesizes current evidence on SCD and stroke to highlight opportunities for further research and standardizing care protocols across institutions. Ultimately, a holistic perspective is critical for mitigating the high risk of debilitating strokes in this vulnerable patient population.

Novel Approaches Concerning the Numerical Modeling of Particle and Cell Separation in Microchannels: A Review

The demand for precise separation of particles, cells, and other biological matter has significantly increased in recent years, leading to heightened scientific interest in this topic. More recently, due to advances in computational techniques and hardware, numerical simulations have been used to guide the design of separation devices. In this article, we establish the theoretical basis governing fluid flow and particle separation and then summarize the computational work performed in the field of particle and cell separation in the last five years with an emphasis on magnetic, dielectric, and acoustic methods. Nearly 70 articles are being reviewed and categorized depending on the type of material separated, fluid medium, software used, and experimental validation, with a brief description of some of the most notable results. Finally, further conclusions, future guidelines, and suggestions for potential improvement are highlighted.