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Ординатура / Хирургия / Библиотека им академика М.И. Перельмана / Книга_101_библиотеки_им_акад_М_И_Перельмана

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13.4 GOOD LABORATORY PRACTICES
13.4.1 oveRvieW
Quality and Compliance Systems
Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) constitutes a quality management system for research labora­tories and organizations involved in non- clinical experimental research. It ensures uniformity, con­sistency, reliability, reproducibility, quality, and integrity of products in development for human or animal health (including pharmaceuticals) through non- clinical safety tests. Scientic measures (whether they are used to detect pollutants in pharmaceutical products, make clinical blood glucose determinations, characterize forensic evidence, or test materials for space missions) are widely acknowledged to inuence life and death decisions. As a personal acknowledgment of their respon­sibility, scientists have historically employed sound laboratory procedures to ensure the accuracy of their ndings. However, until recently, these policies faced inconsistent acceptance, applica­tion, and auditing. Because of well- known historical instances of incorrect data leading to disas­trous outcomes, national and international agencies have established GLP guidelines for various industries (food, agricultural, pharmaceutical, medicinal, environmental, etc.) outlined in 22 CFR Part 58.
Federal agencies in the United States, such as the FDA and the EPA, have published documents outlining laboratory standards that must be met for technical results from laboratory studies to be acceptable for legal or contractual purposes. Laboratories engaging with these entities must adhere to GLP regulations. Ensuring compliance has become paramount, with many companies investing considerable effort, ranging from 10% to 50% of their overall resources, in internal quality assurance. On average, companies allocate about 25% of their efforts towards this.
Given the critical role of GLP in modern laboratory operations and its signicance for com­petent scientists, it is highly recommended that all bioprocess engineers thoroughly review these guidelines. The guidelines are accessible on the websites mentioned in the reference section of this chapter.
13.4.2 eleMents of good laboRatoRy PRactice
13.4.2.1 Quality Assurance: Establishing Confidence in Reported Data
The laboratory’s analytical data, the primary outcome of chemical analysis, undergoes meticulous quality assurance (QA) procedures. These tasks encompass ensuring accurate chemical and phys­ical measurements, interpreting and recording data with sufcient error estimates and condence levels. QA activities also involve maintaining comprehensive records of specimen/ sample sources, background information (sample tracking), procedures, raw data, and ndings associated with each specimen/ sample. Although each of these QA components might warrant extensive volumes, I’ll briey touch upon each here. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are validated and certied procedures crucial for specic determinations. Regulatory bodies like the EPA or FDA typically approve and publish these procedures, disallowing the use of alternative procedures for collecting analytical data on specic analytes. It is imperative for any commercial laboratory to have SOPs aligned with appropriate standards. This ensures that analytical data obtained and recorded can be traced back to a documented procedure, allowing for replication of determinations using the SOP for similar specimens.
13.4.2.2 Instrumentation Validation
Instrument validation stands as a critical procedure in every analytical laboratory. Although default instrument data may seem reliable, modern computer- controlled systems, isolating analysts from data collection and instrument control functions, make it challenging to detect inaccuracies. Thus, it’s crucial to establish objective protocols for regularly assessing instrumental data validity. These protocols guarantee the continued safe operation of laboratory instruments within dened
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parameters. Control charts, as time- related graphical records, depict outcomes of instrument val­idation procedures. Typically, the “control limits,” which are assigned as upper and lower ranges around the projected instrumental output, are linked to some agreed- upon estimation of the expected random error for the entire process. Typically, the control limits are set at two standard deviations. When an instrument’s performance exceeds these limits, QA procedures mandate its non- use for analytical reports until the issue is identied, rectied, and certied to operate within control limits again before being returned to service for determinations.
13.4.2.3 Reagent and Materials Certification
Reagents and product testing are integral to QA, following GLP guidelines that stress adherence to established protocols and proper documentation. Guidelines necessitate labeling each labora­tory reagent/ material container with certication details, date, and expiration. This protocol aims to ensure that SOP- specied reagents are used.
QA also requires an Analytical Qualication (COA), demanding evidence of analyst training and experience with suitable laboratory procedures. As the American Chemical Society lacks a ‘certi­cation’ policy for chemists or analysts, certication standards are usually set by the lab, meeting FDA or EMA requirements.
13.4.2.4 Certification of Laboratory Facilities
Certication of laboratory facilities is usually performed by a third- party entity. Representatives from a government agency with which they have a contract, for example, may be audited at an analytical laboratory. An independent laboratory should submit paperwork to the appropriate state or federal agency. The evaluation considers space (quantity, efciency, and relevance), ventilation, facilities, storage, hygiene, and other factors.
13.4.2.5 Specimen and Sample Tracking
The emergence of computer- based Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMSs) highlighted the signicance of tracking specimens and samples in quality control. Sample monitoring, whether manual using paper les or modern bar- coding techniques, remains an essen­tial part of quality assurance. Although the terms “specimen” and “sample” are often interchange­able, “specimen” typically refers to a chemically determined substance, while “sample” generally denotes a nite portion of the specimen taken for analysis. In homogenous specimens, the sample mirrors the overall composition, but in heterogeneous ones (e.g., metal alloys, rock, soil, foods, etc.), a sample might not accurately represent the overall composition (e.g., metal alloys, rock, soil, textiles, foods, polymer composites, and vitamin capsules). Maintaining analytical result reports’ context is crucial for data interpretation.
Different laboratories may employ varied procedures for proper specimen/ sample monitoring, but they all must preserve the unmistakable link between analytical data and the specimens/ samples they were derived from. Additionally, the source of the specimen/ sample(s) must be documented and unequivocally linked to the analytical data collection. In specic situations, establishing and validating a “chain of custody” becomes necessary. This is particularly crucial for forensic samples in criminal cases but could be relevant in various other circumstances. For instance, a pharmaceut­ical company might need to demonstrate the authenticity of specimens used in clinical trials to eliminate doubts about data validity. These safeguards might involve ensuring that trial specimens were not tampered with and providing a complete chain of custody to eliminate any doubts about the validity of specimens submitted for chemical analysis.
13.4.2.6 Documentation and Maintenance of Records
Protection of specimen/ sample origin records, chain of custody, raw analytical data, processed data, SOPs, instrument validation and reagent certication reports, and analyst certication papers aligns
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with GLP guidelines. These records allow for post- evaluation of performance, often after several years have passed. In the event of legal disputes, maintaining all specied records offers evidence that may be needed because of the effect of decisions concerning original analytical ndings.
GLP’s record- keeping function is critical, with many features now incorporated into modern instrument service computer packages. For instance, modern computer- based instruments allow unrestricted storage of raw analytical data for specic samples in a secure, tamper- proof environ­ment. They also ensure the preservation of historical control chart data, crucial for determining an instrument’s operational quality during data acquisition.
The duration for retaining laboratory records varies. In supervised laboratories, the general rule is to maintain records for at least ve years, with the possibility of extending this period thanks to higher- density storage devices for digitized data. This kind of record- keeping is increasingly crucial, especially with the rise in chemistry- related commercial goods lawsuits. For businesses dealing with potential lawsuits, safeguarding stored data integrity becomes a signicant security concern.
All of the record- keeping ingredients described above are captured in the traditional labora­tory notebooks serve as repositories for the record- keeping elements described earlier, providing scientists with a detailed guide for laboratory maintenance. Detailed instructions on maintaining a lab notebook will be provided in a subsequent section.
Data collection in laboratories involves meticulous recording in notebooks using indelible ink, strictly avoiding erasable materials. Corrections are not made by overwriting; instead, incor­rect entries are minimally crossed out for legibility. A new entry, accompanied by the operator’s initials, follows. This practice, mandated by GLP, applies universally, even in simple or preparatory experiments. In instances where data is initially noted on loose paper (such as napkins) and later transcribed, the original writing must remain intact, a requirement extending to the nal document.
The value of data hinges on several crucial questions: What is its intrinsic value? How con­dent are the results? How precise is the measurement, and what’s the reproducibility of recorded numbers? Contrary to popular belief, the number of signicant gures does not necessarily equate to accuracy. An excessive number of gures often hampers data presentation and might misrepresent its accuracy.
A data value represents a material property with an element of uncertainty. This data may be accurate, inaccurate, or a combination of both. The level of uncertainty associated with a value is reected in how it is written, typically by the number of gures included, indicating potential uncer­tainty. Sometimes, there’s an excessive number of gures after the decimal point, but even the g­ures before the decimal point can be tailored to represent the data accurately. A simple way to gauge this necessity is by counting the signicant numbers. For instance, the numbers 19,490 and 10.098 both contain ve signicant gures each. The required number of signicant gures depends on two factors. First, the value’s signicance, i.e., how relevant it is. For instance, if an instrument can only detect a 1% difference, signicant gures should not exceed two after the decimal point. Second, the numerical multiplicative value matters. Consider the number π (22/ 7); while it can be extended to an innite number of signicant gures, a standard calculator rounds it to 3.14285714285714 due to the digits’ remainder.
13.4.3 electRonic data handling
13.4.3.1 Overview
Entering data directly into electronic devices like computers, tablets, or through handwriting con­version is now common. However, electronic data handling poses new challenges and requirements that must be thoroughly understood by all handling such data. In the past ve years, the FDA has issued more citations for non- compliance with electronic data handling than for any other reason, including adherence to GMP. These citations have been given to companies of various sizes, from
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small regional businesses to large multinational corporations. Consequently, many facilities gener­ating data for regulatory submission continue using manual recording systems until they feel com­fortable transitioning to electronic systems.
Electronic data management requires establishing an elaborate validation and security system, often inaccessible to smaller institutions. Stringent FDA requirements mandate validated hardware, secure operator identication, multi- level passwords, and active data monitoring. Although non­regulatory research institutions might bypass these requirements, compliance becomes imperative when planning a regulatory submission.
These regulatory requirements are detailed in CFR 21 Part 11 of the Federal Register. Students should familiarize themselves with at least the basic aspects of this law to grasp the system’s requirements.
13.4.3.2 Code of Federal Regulations 21 Part 11: Electronic Records
Part 11 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations acts as a reference for those keeping or uploading records electronically to comply with FDA regulations. It covers all electronic records produced, updated, maintained, archived, retrieved, or distributed in line with FDA Regulations. Part 11 also encompasses electronic documents submitted to the FDA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) and the Public Health Service Act (the PHS Act), even if these records aren’t expressly dened in FDA regulations (11.1). Predicate laws are the foundational criteria outlined in the Act, the PHS Act, and the FDA, other than Part 11.
The FDA enforces the provisions of part 11 including, but not limited to, certain controls for closed systems in § 11.10, for example, the following controls and requirements:
• Limiting device access to only those who are allowed.
• The application of operating framework tests.
• Tests for authority.
• Unit checks are used.
• The determination that people who design, operate, or use electronic systems have the neces­sary qualications, training, and experience to do their jobs.
• Individuals are held responsible for acts taken with their electronic signatures if written pol­icies are developed and followed.
• Additionally, there are requirements for system documentation controls, acceptable controls over systems documentation for open systems (11.30), and requirements related to electronic signatures (e.g., 11.50, 11.70, 11.100, 11.200, and 11.300).
For full compliance, individuals must adhere to relevant predicate rules, ensuring the preserva-
tion and accuracy of the documents intended for preservation or submission.
Part 11 applies when people opt for electronic documents over paper format. When computers generate paper printouts of electronic records that meet all relevant predicate rule criteria and these printouts are relied upon for controlled activities, the FDA typically doesn’t classify this as ‘using electronic records in place of paper records’ under 11.2(a) and 11.2(b). In such cases, the use of computer systems in creating paper records doesn’t trigger part 11.
Part 11 of the FDA’s regulations pertains to specic electronic records or signatures (part 11 records or signatures)
• Records must be held following predicate rule provisions and kept in electronic format rather than paper format. Part 11 records, on the other hand, are records (and any related signatures) that are not supposed to be kept under predicate rules but are kept in electronic format.
• Records that are supposed to be kept under predicate rules are kept in both electronic and paper formats and are used to carry out supervised activities.
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Real business practices may determine whether electronic records or paper records are used under
11.2(a) in certain cases. For example, if a predicate rule requires record maintenance and a machine generates a paper printout of electronic records, the dependency for supervised operations is on the electronic record. In such cases, the FDA might opt for an electronic record over a paper one. Essentially, when determining the applicability of part 11, the FDA considers your business practices.
Records submitted to the FDA in electronic format under predicate rules (even if not explicitly listed in FDA regulations) (assuming identication in docket number 92S- 0251 as acceptable elec­tronic submissions). However, a record used to generate a request is not considered part 11 com­pliant unless allowed under a predicate rule and maintained in electronic format.
Predicate laws mandate handwritten signatures, initials, and other signings, with electronic signatures intended as substitutes. Part 11 signatures include electronic signatures used to document specic events or activities per the predicate rule (e.g., accepted, checked, veried).
13.4.4 validation
FDA requires validation of computerized systems (11.10(a)) and corresponding criteria (11.30). Assess the scope of computerized system validation based on their impact on meeting predicate rule requirements and the accuracy, reliability, credibility, availability, and validity of necessary records and signatures. Even without predicate rule requirements for validation, cases may neces­sitate validation.
Clients should focus their strategy on a documented risk assessment to evaluate system impacts on product quality, protection, and record integrity. Validation may not be necessary for a word pro­cessor generating SOPs exclusively.
Computer systems encompass hardware and software; hardware validation protocols are well­dened, but software validation poses signicant challenges. Most off- the- shelf software programs do not meet FDA validation requirements.
13.4.5 audit tRails
Unique part 11 standards govern computer- generated, time- stamped audit trails, requiring com­pliance with relevant predicate rule provisions for recording date (e.g., 58.130(e)), time, or event sequencing. Any modications to records must not obscure prior entries.
Even if no predicate rule requirements are available to track, for example, the date, time, or sequence of events in a specic case, audit trails or other physical, logical, or procedural security measures may be necessary to ensure the records’ trustworthiness and reliability. We should base our decision on whether to use audit trails or other necessary steps on the need to comply with predi­cate rule requirements, a justied and recorded risk assessment, and a determination of the possible impact on product quality, protection, and record integrity. Based on such an assessment, the FDA recommends that we implement effective controls. When users are required to build, alter, or remove controlled records during regular operations, audit trails can be particularly useful.
The copies of electronic records are provided to the FDA as follows:
• When records are held in common portable formats, making copies of them is a simple task.
• Where possible, using existing automated conversion or export methods to create copies in a more popular format (examples of such formats include, but are not limited to, PDF, XML, or SGML).
13.4.6 RecoRd Retention
Predicate rule criteria, a justied and recorded risk evaluation, and a calculation of the records’ worth over time should all be considered when deciding how to keep records.
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The FDA permits archiving necessary records on non- electronic media like microlm, microche, paper, or standard electronic le formats (e.g., PDF, XML, or SGML). Predicate rule provisions must be followed, and both content and purpose of the required documents and their copies must be preserved. The electronic version of records may be discarded if all predicate rule conditions are met, and content and context are maintained and archived. A hybrid situation where paper and elec­tronic recording and signature components coexist is acceptable as long as predicate rule criteria are met, and the records’ accuracy and meaning are preserved.
13.4.7 data eRRoRs
13.4.7.1 Absolute and Relative Errors
The signicant digits are also decided frequently on the output of the instrument recording the data; for example, if a balance is capable of giving ±1 g, then there is no sense reporting weight even to a single decimal place. The last number should be rounded off, for example, a weight machine recording 138.7 g (yes the output may be provided to any signicant value) then the number should be reported as 139 g. In the example given above, we have introduced another concept of absolute error, meaning that within a range of 1 g on each side, the values are not accurate. When the absolute error is compared with the total value, we obtain a relative error. In the example above, 139 g weight recorded on a machine with ± 1 g uncertainty represents a relative error of (1/ 139) × 100 = 0.72% relative error.
As absolute error is an estimation rather than an actual measurement, reporting it to more than two signicant gures is unnecessary. In the example calculation, reporting a relative error of 0.7269% wouldn’t provide meaningful information.
Absolute errors and relative errors, as discussed earlier, pertain to individual data sets. When multiple datasets are incorporated into a mathematical formula, the error can become substan­tial. As a rule of thumb, relative errors are additive when performing multiplication or division. In the previously mentioned example, the relative error for weight measurement was 0.72%. If the volume measurement (for density determination) has a relative error of 2%, then the overall error for density will amount to 2.72%. For addition or subtraction, absolute errors, not relative errors, are combined. However, when subtracting large numbers, the absolute errors may result in smaller values, transforming into considerably large relative errors. For instance, if a value of 2890 is subtracted from 2900, both with an absolute error of 10, the nal answer of 10 will possess an absolute error of 10 or a 100% relative error.
13.4.8 systeMatic and RandoM eRRoRs
The preceding paragraphs detailed signicant gures in numbers and addressed handling data reli­ability. Errors in measurements can stem from a xed factor, such as lack of calibration, or unpre­dictable human errors. The former is termed a systematic error; for instance, if the user overlooks the 42g weight of the sample container, all measurements should be adjusted downward by 42 g. Additionally, calibration errors, resulting in all readings being 10% higher, can be rectied after data collection. Systematic errors produce highly reproducible results, hence precise although not accurate. The latter type, random or accidental error, arises from unknown causes such as human or machine errors leading to varying measurements or a scattered distribution. For accuracy, results should exhibit minimal systematic and random errors.
Finally, some errors fall in the category of blunders— needless to say; it takes a man to err, a computer to blunder.
The goal of obtaining data remains to obtain accurate data recorded to reasonable signicant g­ures, thus obviating systematic and random errors.
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FIGURE 13.2 Precision- accuracy relationship chart.
Source: Copyright Millipore Sigma
FIGURE 13.3 Darts thrown representing how precision and accuracy are dened: (a) imprecise and inaccurate (b) imprecise and accurate (note: the decision to call this observation accurate depends on the range of precision required; for example, in most circumstances, a 5% lack of precision will be readily accepted, in others a much lower range is desired); (c) precise and inaccurate; and (d) precise and accurate.
Source: Copyright Millipore Sigma
In cases where absolute and correct gures are reported, there’s no limit to signicant gures, as seen with the value of π or an exact dollar amount. However, in collected data, reporting more than three signicant gures often surpasses the sensitivity of the methods used, giving a false impression of higher accuracy and reliability.
To represent the above discussion in a graphical form, Figure 13.2 shows the relative errors.
On a more graphical base, Figure 13.3 shows the description of precision and accuracy on a dartboard.
Interestingly, the next time you look at the advertisement of a high- end manual Swiss watch, notice that they tout their “precision movement”, not “accurate movement” because none of the watches, particularly the manual ones, are accurate.
()
()
−+
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13.4.9 statistical analysis
335
Randomness in data is associated with unpredictable errors; however, another aspect of randomness involves the data measured. While an electronic instrument might produce an electrical signal with a random range of responses to an impulse, universal values encountering randomness are common occurrence.
The age distribution of the American population reects a bell- shaped curve, termed a Gaussian distribution phenomenon, when plotted against age groups and corresponding popu­lation numbers. This bell curve might be ideally symmetrical (representing a truly randomized sample) or skewed due to an overall bias. For instance, the Japanese curve skews rightward, sig­nifying longer life expectancy and slower population growth. Conversely, in many developing countries, the curve skews leftward (lower age), symbolizing a high birth rate and elevated mor­tality at older ages.
When a coin is ipped numerous times, the outcomes would be represented as a at bar indi­cating the two outcomes rather than a bell- shaped curve, owing to the discrete nature of the results. It’s crucial not to confuse the randomness in these examples with the randomness observed in the data output that constitutes our dataset. These random measurement errors can be analyzed through statistical procedures to determine the best estimate of the measured variable and assess how random error inuences the data.
It is pertinent to note that, similar to the age distribution example, random errors also adhere to a Gaussian (or normal) distribution. Theoretically, an innite number of readings would yield an error- free arithmetic mean. However, a reasonable number of readings sufce to understand the actual value.
The process begins with calculating the arithmetic mean by adding all values and dividing the sum by the number of readings.
This represents an initial attempt to dene the real value. However, this value doesn’t account for measurement precision, which is indicated by how each reading deviates from the arithmetic mean— the residual value. This residual provides a statistical parameter known as standard deviation (σ).
σ
=
2
xx xx xx
()()
−+−+
1
n
xx
2
2
2
∑−
2
()
xx
n
(13.1)
2
3
Hence, in reporting the results of repeated measurements, the mean is quoted as the best esti­mate of the variable, while the standard deviation gauges the condence in the result. Both mean and standard deviation share units and dimensions with the variable (x), and the variable is reported as mean ± standard deviation. As the number of observations (n) increases, the standard deviation decreases while simultaneously bringing the arithmetic mean closer to the real value. In cases where a high standard deviation is observed, the focus should be on system improvement rather than redu­cing the deviation through repeated measurements. Typically, a few dozen readings sufce to grasp the extent of deviation. Notably, systematic errors stemming from poor calibration or validation are constant modulators linked to accuracy and aren’t subject to statistical analysis.
13.4.10 conclusions
Data analysis encompasses techniques for describing evidence, identifying patterns, forming the­ories, and testing hypotheses. Numerical results of data analysis tend to be straightforward, often
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revealing the most representative number and comparing them. It unveils averages (e.g., average pH or temperature) and variations (e.g., differences in optical density during fermentation). However, data analysis is not solely about numbers; it utilizes them. The challenge arises not in contemplating “How does it work?” but in the realm where data analysis operates. For instance, in an 8- hour bac­terial culture, the optical density increased from an initial 0.1 to 12. Mathematically, the culture averaged an optical density increase of 1.49 h−1. However, without further data collection and ana­lysis, the question “How does it work?” remains unanswered. Additional data analysis in this scen­ario might reveal that the culture doubled in density every 20 minutes until reaching around 12 and then stabilized, which occurred approximately 4.5 hours in. Consequently, data analysis assists in testing a particular model’s applicability to a process, estimating the signicance of coefcients in process models, and visualizing a variable’s general pattern inuencing another.
Experimental data can be categorized into independent variables and dependent variables, with the latter representing the uncontrolled response. Examples of independent variables include time, pH, or temperature, while the dependent variable, such as optical density, is expressed as a function of the independent variable.
Flow diagrams serve as visual representations of processes, effectively summarizing a vast amount of data. They can be complex, outlining pertinent process information and data. Figure 13.2 illustrates a ow diagram depicting the manufacture of a recombinant protein. Experiment conditions and recorded outputs can be integrated into ow diagrams. Some ow diagrams transform into deci­sion trees, determining a specic path based on true or false conditions. Engineering ow diagrams contain extensive details and are routinely used to describe large complex systems.
Data are typically represented through tables, graphs, or equations. Tables offer a way to dis­play data of varying lengths and levels of detail, but longer tables can become difcult to inter­pret. Graphs, on the other hand, provide a quick visualization of results and trends. Understanding these aspects of data analysis is crucial for grasping the overall process and identifying outliers. It also facilitates the design of additional experiments based on different phases of the experiment. Conventionally, independent variables are plotted on the abscissa (X- axis), while one or more dependent variables are plotted on the ordinate (Y- axis). One simple method for plotting data is by using Microsoft Excel, which provides extensive mathematical and statistical tools. Prociency in Microsoft Excel is highly recommended for anyone working in a laboratory setting. However, it’s important to note that these data manipulations might not comply with CFR 21 Part 11, which may or may not be an issue depending on whether the data are submitted for regulatory approval of products.
The relationship between independent and dependent variables can often be presented in equation form, establishing a mathematical relationship. A regression t might yield a linear relationship, such as y = Ax + B, where B represents the intercept of the straight line on the ordinate and A is the slope; A and B are also known as coefcients or adjustable parameters.
Non- linear regression involves incorporating another mathematical function, such as an expo­nential growth model like X = X0e−kt, where k is the rate constant and t is time. This relationship implies a natural log- linear relationship, where plotting the natural log of X against time produces a straight line with a slope equal to −k. Fitting data to these equations allows for understanding and predicting outcomes based on a certain equation.
Considering inherent errors in each data point and those that can be analyzed through statis­tical methods is crucial when drawing conclusions from data analysis. This emphasizes the use of regression analysis to ensure proper understanding of a dataset. While Microsoft Excel simplies the creation of various regression ts or models, it’s essential for students to manually calculate the goodness of t to appreciate the role of data variability. Understanding statistical principles behind calculations is fundamental, as human errors often contribute signicantly to experimental errors. Recognizing the signicance of random errors, systematic errors, and blunders is essential for those working in laboratories. Collecting data inaccurately severely limits their meaningfulness, adhering
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to the principle of “garbage in, garbage out.” Therefore, a thorough understanding of basic statistical methods and their limitations is crucial in laboratory work.
When data are plotted, either manually or by computer, and a best- t line is drawn through them, the question arises regarding the signicance of certain points over others. This concern becomes more pronounced when employing manual data smoothing techniques. Computers, however, miti­gate this bias by drawing lines that minimize variance between predicted points and actual values at different intervals. Nevertheless, this method tends to give more weight to data points with larger values. To address this, models are available that assign specic weights to data points, thereby preventing such biases in automated computations. The least- squares analysis, a prevalent tech­nique for determining the line or curve that minimizes residuals, involves minimizing the sum of squares of the residuals in this statistical method. Different approaches exist for this operation. For instance, Legendre’s approach decreases the number of squares of the residuals for the dependent variable, while Gauss’s and Laplace’s methods reduce the sum of squares of weighted residuals, with weights determined by the scatter of replicate data points. It’s crucial to note that each approach yields distinct results; determining the “correct” tting curve is essentially subjective. In the least­squares analysis, the generated curve may not closely align with specic data points known to be more accurate, as it minimizes the number of squares of the residuals. Alternatively, characterizing the best t by raising the number of residuals to the fourth power minimizes the absolute values of the residuals. The selection of the sum of squares is somewhat arbitrary, as several other mathem­atical methods are equally valid. Outliers, points with large residuals, strongly inuence regres­sion. In some cases, these outliers can be excluded, but only after analyzing the data both with and without them. Statistical models specically designed to handle outliers exist, requiring a deeper understanding of statistical modeling. It is important to note that Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards prohibit the exclusion of any outliers.
To summarize, note that the least- squares analysis applies solely to data containing random errors, necessitating independent variables. In essence, y cannot be a function of x and be determined by the process’s nature. For instance, if x represents time and y is optical density, regardless of the time readings taken, y should not depend on the clock hour. If readings at 2 pm consistently show a 10% increase, there exists a dependence between x and y. Such instances require more sophisticated models for analysis. Moreover, it assumes uniform data output regardless of the experiment. Consider whether equipment heating up over time might introduce more random error measurements.
That will require necessitating additional corrections and potentially requiring weighted least­square analysis.
In the past, graph paper plotting was commonplace. However, in today’s electronic age, it’s advisable to refrain from this practice. Not only is it time- consuming, but it also tends to result in signicant errors and hinders electronic data storage. Instead, students are encouraged to develop prociency in tools like Microsoft Excel. Computer plotting offers added benets such as error bars, standard deviation bars, regression coefcients, and measures of goodness of t.
13.5 QUALITY CONTROL
13.5.1 oveRvieW
For biopharmaceuticals and chemically derived drugs, in- process testing, release testing based on DS and DP specications, and product characterization testing follow similar protocols. Monitoring various parameters and responses is part of a robust quality management program. This encompasses essential parameter descriptions, in- process control of intermediate substances, and testing of both drug substance and product. Quality control standard denitions include process management, sub­stance/ product control, and a summary of analytical methods employed to classify intermediate and nal products. In- process measurements like pH, conductivity, total protein, and redox potential are common. Testing of drug substances/ products adheres to ICH standards, focusing on identity,