Difference between revisions of "Disease vector"

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(Moved this stuff to vector article)
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In [[genetics]], a '''vector''' is an agent, such as a virus or a small piece of [[DNA]] called a [[plasmid]], that carries a modified or foreign gene. When used in gene therapy, a vector delivers the desired gene to a target cell.
 
In [[genetics]], a '''vector''' is an agent, such as a virus or a small piece of [[DNA]] called a [[plasmid]], that carries a modified or foreign gene. When used in gene therapy, a vector delivers the desired gene to a target cell.
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In [[mathematics]], a '''vector''' is a quantity with magnitude and direction. For example, an airplane has [[speed]] and a compass heading (e.g., 600 MPH, headed North).
 
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In [[physics]], [[velocity]] is a vector quantity while speed by itself is a ''scalar'' quantity.
 
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Vectors in math and physics are typically graphed as arrows pointing in the direction of a quantity such as velocity. The length of the arrow shows its magnitude. This makes it easy to add vector quantities (you line up the tail of one arrow with the point of the other).
 
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In [[computer]] science, '''vector''' has many meanings, in addition to the mathematical one given above:
 
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*A data structure which allows random access to its contents but which can also be extended. Typical of this is the [[C++]] [[programming language]] [[Standard Template Library]] use.
 
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*A ''vector processor'' carries out operations on many elements of an array at the same time
 
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*''Vector graphics'' are a form of graphics defined by line and shape primitives, compared with ''bitmap graphics'' where they are defined by image data.
 
  
 
== Sources ==
 
== Sources ==

Revision as of 22:02, June 24, 2008

A disease vector is an insect, animal or other organism which spreads disease indirectly. It is not the the thing which causes the disease, but is a "carrier". Mosquitoes carry a parasite which causes malaria. Dogs can carry a germ which cause rabies.

In genetics, a vector is an agent, such as a virus or a small piece of DNA called a plasmid, that carries a modified or foreign gene. When used in gene therapy, a vector delivers the desired gene to a target cell.

Sources

http://www.genome.gov/glossary.cfm?key=vector