Vulnerable Path Determination in mobile ad-hoc networks using Markov Model

Security threats are of major concern in information sensitive ad-hoc networks like emergency military communication networks. We propose a Proactive Information Security Management System (PISMS) framework with vulnerable path determination module (VPDM) for such mobile ad-hoc networks. The chief security officer can use it to identify the most vulnerable paths, so that they can be patched using suitable security technologies before the hackers actually attack and compromise them. Our PISMS computes (i) the probability of transitioning from each node to its adjacent neighbors, using two key indicators (angle and distance); (ii) number of steps required to reach a pre-determined destination from different sources using Markov model. The path that requires minimum number of steps to reach a destination is the most vulnerable path. This mechanism of identifying vulnerable path is incorporated as an integral part of the Information systems acquisition, development and maintenance (ISADM) module of ISMS framework ISO27001

S-allyl Cysteine in Combination with Clotrimazole Downregulates Fas Induced Apoptotic Events in Erythrocytes of Mice exposed to Lead

Background: Chronic lead (Pb2+) exposure leads to the reduced lifespan of erythrocytes. Oxidative stress and K+ loss accelerate Fas translocation into lipid raft microdomains inducing Fas mediated death signaling in these erythrocytes. Pathophysiological-based therapeutic strategies to combat against erythrocyte death were evaluated using garlic-derived organosulfur compounds like diallyl disulfide (DADS), S allyl cysteine (SAC) and imidazole based Gardos channel inhibitor clotrimazole (CLT). Methods: Morphological alterations in erythrocytes were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. Events associated with erythrocyte death were evaluated using radio labeled probes, flow cytometry and activity gel assay. Mass spectrometry was used for detection of GSH–4-hydroxy-trans-2-nonenal (HNE) adducts. Fas redistribution into the lipid rafts was studied using immunoblotting technique and confocal microscopy. Results: Combination of SAC and CLT was better than DADS and CLT combination and monotherapy with these agents in prolonging the survival of erythrocytes during chronic Pb2+ exposure. Combination therapy with SAC and CLT prevented redistribution of Fas into the lipid rafts of the plasma membrane and downregulated Fas-dependent death events in erythrocytes of mice exposed to Pb2+. Conclusion and general significance: Ceramide generation was a critical component of Fas receptor-induced apoptosis, since inhibition of acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase) interfered with Fas-induced apoptosis during Pb2+ exposure. Combination therapy with SAC and CLT downregulated apoptotic events in erythrocytes by antagonizing oxidative stress and Gardos channel that led to suppression of ceramide-initiated Fas aggregation in lipid rafts. Hence, combination therapy with SAC and CLT may be a potential therapeutic option for enhancing the lifespan of erythrocytes during Pb2+ toxicity