Amy Shahtout

Bio: Amy Shahtout is an academic researcher. The author has contributed to research in topics: Quality assurance & Standardization. The author has an hindex of 1, co-authored 1 publications receiving 3992 citations.

International Organization for Standardization

Abstract: This chapter provides an overview of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Operating since 1947, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a nongovernmental association consisting of representatives from over 150 countries, one member per country. The increased credibility associated with ISO certification leads to many advantages that include decreased operating expenses stemming from scrap and rework, and enhanced management control through management review participation. The chapter describes the ISO standards most relevant in a clinical laboratory service setting. The quality standards in the ISO 9000 family focus on quality management and include quality-management system (QMS) requirements that are general for the manufacturing and service industries. The ISO 9001 standard requires extensive interpretation, while ISO 15189 is an international standard specifically developed for medical laboratories, although it may be of relevance to such disciplines as clinical physiology and medical imaging. The chapter describes the process for obtaining and maintaining ISO certification. ISO certification can be an attractive credential for a clinical laboratory. The College of American Pathologists (CAP) continues to play a role in the development of the ISO 15189 standard and, since 2008, has been a certifying body for this standard. The certification process is followed by ongoing maintenance of the QMS by the laboratory, as well as surveillance audits performed by the certifying body.

AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals: 2013 Edition

Abstract: 1. Clarification: The 2013 Guidelines make a distinction between euthanasia, humane killing, and slaughter, and state that neither slaughter nor humane killing is covered in the document P.68, S6.1.1. Not included among the definitions of these terms are ending the lives of healthy animals or scientific collection of animals. For clarification, whatever the term used, classification of the method, or reason given for killing animals: euthanasia, humane killing, slaughter, harvest, depopulation, scientific collection, or research-related, the Council on Accreditation’s foremost concern, in all situations, is with humane technique. The goal of humane technique is to minimize pain, distress, and the negative effect to the animal. The technique employed should result in rapid loss of consciousness followed by cardiac or respiratory arrest and, ultimately, a loss of brain function. Although complete absence of pain and distress is preferred, it is understood that it cannot always be achieved P7.13.2.

Susceptibility Test Methods: Dilution and Disk Diffusion Methods*

Abstract: This chapter describes reference dilution (MIC) and disk diffusion antimicrobial susceptibility test methods for nonfastidious, aerobic bacteria. It describes CLSI (United States) and EUcst (European) reference methods and standardized disk diffusion methods. The procedure for performing each test type is described as well as quality control procedures. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed. Finally, the most current interpretive breakpoint criteria for MIC and disk tests from the CLSI are listed.

Zebrafish as a model system to study toxicology.

Abstract: Monitoring and assessing the effects of contaminants in the aquatic eco-environment is critical in protecting human health and the environment. The zebrafish has been widely used as a prominent model organism in different fields because of its small size, low cost, diverse adaptability, short breeding cycle, high fecundity, and transparent embryos. Recent studies have demonstrated that zebrafish sensitivity can aid in monitoring environmental contaminants, especially with the application of transgenic technology in this area. The present review provides a brief overview of recent studies on wild-type and transgenic zebrafish as a model system to monitor toxic heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, and organic pollutants for toxicology. The authors address the new direction of developing high-throughput detection of genetically modified transparent zebrafish to open a new window for monitoring environmental pollutants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:11–17. © 2013 SETAC