PNNL

Abstract

A conceptual framework and levels of abstraction are created to apply across all potential threats. Bioterrorism is used as a complex example to describe the general framework. Bioterrorism is unlimited with respect to the use of a specific agent, mode of dissemination, and potential target. Because the threat is open-ended, there is a strong need for a common, systemic understanding of attack scenarios related to bioterrorism. In recognition of this large-scale complex problem, systems are being created to define, design and use the proper level of abstraction and conceptual framework in bioterrorism. The wide variety of biological agents and delivery mechanisms provide an opportunity for dynamic scale changes by the linking or interlinking of existing threat components. Concurrent impacts must be separated and evaluated in terms of a given environment and/or ‘abstraction framework.’