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up to date and expand the study as far out as available data allowed,” Haun said. “We worked together to set up a format for gathering aggregate statelevel data from the CDC for analysis to evaluate CCHD and CCHD-related deaths in the U.S. between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2019.”

Bice said, “The study includes data from before and after implementation of mandatory screenings for CCHDs. 13 conditions included in the study were identified through the CCHDrelated ICD-10 codes provided by the National Library of Medicine’s Newborn Screening and Coding Terminology Guide.”

Findings from the research project showed a decline in early infant death rates due to CCHDs associated with a nationwide mandatory screening policy. This provides support for policies such as a pulse ox mandate that improves care and saves lives.

Haun said, “The research project was an incredible accomplishment for an undergraduate student. The initial findings were presented at the 2022 Alabama Academy of Sciences Conference. Positive feedback and suggestions helped to tailor the study design. Then Luke presented a poster at the 2022 Samford Research Colloquia.”

Before submitting an article on the research for publication in a peerreviewed journal, Bice and Haun felt the project could be further improved by input from experts in the field.

David Naftel, MD, 2021 Pediatric Heart Transplant Society Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, came to Samford and met with Bice and Haun. His expertise in statistics and pediatric heart health provided insights that were beneficial in preparing the manuscript. The Status of Critical Congenital Heart Defect Infant Deaths After PulseOximetry Screening Mandates has been accepted for publication in The Journal of the Alabama Academy of Science. Mentoring is another form of paying it forward, passing on skills and knowledge to the next generation. “It has been a blessing to serve as a research mentor to Luke, connect with experts in this particular area, and see Luke’s passion for this field be brought to fruition,” Haun said.

“Dr. Haun’s guidance and help were essential to making this research possible,” Bice said. “We hope our research will provide insights into the effectiveness of such policies and support their continued use in reducing infant mortality as well as saving lives and improving health in people of all ages.”

The Streamline

At Streamline Scientific we provide fast and reliable diagnostic testing using PCR and traditional microbiology to identify specific pathogens. This arms clinicians with the data needed to prescribe the most appropriate treatment.

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