A complete reading of the book leaves open the question of for whom the book is primarily intended. The best answer perhaps is that it has something to offer everyone--lawyer, scientist, intellectual property owner, economist, and politician--having an intellectual curiosity in how global intellectual property systems can and should evolve. From an individual reader's perspective, a cover to cover study of the book may leave the reader feeling overwhelmed and unsatisfied. However, if viewed as a resource, from which portions applicable to the reader's own field of interest are selected for close examination, the book has much to offer. Fortunately, the editors have done an admirable job of organizing the separate contributions that facilitates use of the book in this manner.
Objective The aim of this study was to model the effect of body armor coverage on body core temperature elevation and wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) offset. Background Heat stress is a critical factor influencing the health and safety of military populations. Work duration limits can be imposed to mitigate the risk of exertional heat illness and are derived based on the environmental conditions (WBGT). Traditionally a 3°C offset to WBGT is recommended when wearing body armor; however, modern body armor systems provide a range of coverage options, which may influence thermal strain imposed on the wearer. Method The biophysical properties of four military clothing ensembles of increasing ballistic protection coverage were measured on a heated sweating manikin in accordance with standard international criteria. Body core temperature elevation during light, moderate, and heavy work was modeled in environmental conditions from 16°C to 34°C WBGT using the heat strain decision aid. Results Increasing ballistic protection resulted in shorter work durations to reach a critical core temperature limit of 38.5°C. Environmental conditions, armor coverage, and work intensity had a significant influence on WBGT offset. Conclusion Contrary to the traditional recommendation, the required WBGT offset was >3°C in temperate conditions (<27°C WBGT), particularly for moderate and heavy work. In contrast, a lower WBGT offset could be applied during light work and moderate work in low levels of coverage. Application Correct WBGT offsets are important for enabling adequate risk management strategies for mitigating risks of exertional heat illness.
