Quality control protocol design samples used

While methods validation and accuracy testing considerations presented here have been frequently discussed in the literature, they have been included here to emphasize their importance in the design of a total quality control protocol. The Youden two sample quality control scheme has been adapted for continuous analytical performance surveillance. Methods for graphical display of systematic and random error patterns have been presented with simulated performance data. Daily examination of the T, D, and Q quality control plots may be used to assess analytical performance. Once identified, patterns in the quality control plots can be used to assist in the diagnosis of a problem. Patterns of behavior in the systematic error contribution are more frequent and easy to diagnose. However, pattern complications in both error domains are observed and simultaneous events in both T and D plots can help to isolate the problems. Point-by-point comparisons of T and D plots should be made daily (immediately after the data are generated). Early detection of abnormal behavior reduces the possibility that large numbers of samples will require reanalysis. 

While protocol design in terms of collection of a quality data set (numbers of animals, use of radiolabel, analytical concerns) does not inherendy differ from other species, the way the fish are acquired, acclimated, housed, exposed and sampled can influence the variability and data quality. In general, more experimental control is required for studies with fish. This may be a confounding concern as inherent difficulties may exist in obtaining healthy, genetically pure, easily sexed and experimentally acceptable animals. 

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