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  • Branch

    An instruction which causes program execution to jump to a new point in the program sequence, rather than execute the next instruction. Synonym: Jump.
  • Branch Analysis

    A test case identification technique which produces enough test cases such that each decision has a true and a false outcome at least once.
  • Branch Coverage

    (NBS) A test coverage criteria which requires that for each decision point each possible branch be executed at least once. Synonym: Decision Coverage.
  • Branch Testing

    (NBS) Testing technique to satisfy coverage criteria which require that for each decision point, each possible branch (outcome) be executed at least once.
  • BrAPP

    British Association Of Pharmaceutical Physicians
  • Braze Welding

    A welding process using nonferrous filler metal that has a melting point below that of the base metals, but above 427ºC (800ºF). The filler metal is not distributed in the joint by capillary attraction. This type of welding has been also called Bronze welding, a misnomer.
  • Brazing

    A metal joining process wherein coalescence is produced by use of a nonferrous filler metal having a melting point above 427ºC (800ºF), but lower than that of the base metals being joined. The filler metal is distributed between the closely fitted surfaces of the joint by capillary action.
  • BRCA

    Breast Cancer (genes 1 and 2)
  • BRCA1 and BRCA2 (Breast Cancer genes 1 and 2)

    Two genes that normally help to restrain cell growth, but which can obtain certain genetic mutations associated with the development of breast and ovarian cancer. Note, however, that inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are thought to account for less than 10 percent of all breast and ovarian cancers. Recent evidence suggests that somatic cell genetic mutations (i.e., noninherited genetic mutations) in these two genes may also play a role in the development of cancer.
  • Breach Velocity

    Velocity through an aperture sufficient to prevent movement of matter in the direction opposite to the flow.
  • Break

    A discontinuity in the face of a fitting.
  • Breaking the Blind

    Determining what product or treatment a study subject is receiving – Drug identity is revealed. Routinely performed at end of study , but may be required during the study in certain circumstances.
  • Breakthrough

    Passage of a substance through a bed, filter, or process designed to eliminate it. For ion exchange processes, the first signs are leakage of ions (in mixed beds, usually Silica) and the resultant increase in conductivity. For organic removal beds, usually small, volatile compounds (Trihalomethanes (THMs) are common in activated carbon).
  • Breakthrough

    The first appearance in the effluent of an ion-exchange unit of unadsorbed components similar to those that deplete the activity of the resin bed. Breakthrough indicates that the resin is exhausted and needs to be regenerated.
  • Breath Control Shields

    Typically made of acrylic or plastic materials, shields protect product, equipment, or the work from particulate contamination expelled by people.
  • BREEAM

    Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
  • BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)

    A UK based environmental assessment method for buildings. It sets the standards for best practice in sustainable development and demonstrates a level of achievement. Predominantly a design-stage assessment, BREEAM assesses buildings against set criteria and provides an overall score from Pass to Outstanding rating.
  • Brewing

    The process by which beer is made. In the first stage the barley grain is soaked in water and allowed to germinate (malting), during which the natural enzymes of the grain convert the seed starch to maltose, and then to glucose. Grain is then dried, crushed, and added to water at a specific temperature (steeping) and any remaining starch is converted to sugar. The resulting liquid (wort) is the raw material to which yeast is added to convert sugar to alcohol. Hops (female flowers of Humulus lupulus) are added during this process to give a characteristic flavor.
  • BRFSS

    Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (CDC)
  • Bridging Funds

    Monies allocated to temporarily finance the progress of a project as it awaits stage gate approval for complete funding of next stage.
  • BRMAC

    Biological Response Modifiers Advisory Committee (CBER)
  • BRMD

    Bureau of Radiation and Medical Devices (Canada)
  • BRMS

    Biologics Regulatory Management System
  • Broad Spectrum

    Over a wide range. A broad-spectrum disinfectant is effective against a wide range of microorganisms including bacterial spores, mycobacteria, non-lipid and lipid viruses, fungi, and vegetative bacteria.
  • Bronze Welding