From Construction Sites to Wheelchairs: Who Needs Cooling Vests Most? – José Näf (Pt3)
Why is evaporative cooling vital for people who cannot sweat, like those with paraplegia or artificial skin? Learn how smart cooling vests support health and safety in extreme conditions.
"Lean more about Nahtlos Duratrode electrodes at https://www.nahtlos.com/"
In this episode, Dr. Olli Tikkanen and José Näf discuss how evaporative cooling vests support individuals who suffer from heat sensitivity due to medical conditions such as paraplegia, multiple sclerosis, and severe burns. José explains how the loss of sweating ability in these groups can lead to dangerous heat stress and why conventional cooling methods, like ice packs, are not always safe or effective. They also explore the performance of evaporative vests in various humidity levels, with ongoing studies assessing use in places like Dubai and Thailand. From construction sites to clinical recovery, this episode highlights where and how cooling vests are used, including guidelines for wear time and practical use in daily routines. José also shares insights from collaborations with rehabilitation institutions and new testing efforts with artificial skin patients. This conversation offers a rich look into the physiological needs behind cooling innovation and its direct impact on people’s quality of life.
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This podcast episode is sponsored by Fibion Inc. | Better Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Research with Less Hassle
---
Collect, store and manage SB and PA data easily and remotely -
Discover ground-breaking Fibion SENS
---
SB and PA measurements, analysis, and feedback made easy.
Learn more about Fibion Research
---
Learn more about Fibion Sleep and Fibion Circadian Rhythm Solutions.
---
Fibion Kids - Activity tracking designed for children.
---
Collect self-report physical activity data easily and cost-effectively with Mimove.
---
Explore our Wearables, Experience sampling method (ESM), Sleep, Heart rate variability (HRV), Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity article collections for insights on related articles.
---
Refer to our article "Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Measurements" for an exploration of active and sedentary lifestyle assessment methods.
---
Learn about actigraphy in our guide: Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide.
---
Gain foundational ESM insights with "Introduction to Experience Sampling Method (ESM)" for a comprehensive overview.
---
Explore accelerometer use in health research with our article "Measuring Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Accelerometers ".
---
For an introduction to the fundamental aspects of HRV, consider revisiting our Ultimate Guide to Heart Rate Variability.
---
Follow the podcast on Twitter https://twitter.com/PA_Researcher
Follow host Dr Olli Tikkanen on Twitter https://twitter.com/ollitikkanen
Follow Fibion on Twitter https://twitter.com/fibion
https://www.youtube.com/@PA_Researcher
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11:11
Evaporative Cooling Vests: Smart Science for Safer Summers – José Näf (Pt2)
How does an evaporative cooling vest keep your skin up to 5°C cooler for hours—without making you wet? José Näf shares how smart materials can transform temperature regulation.
"Lean more about Nahtlos Duratrode electrodes at https://www.nahtlos.com/"
In this episode, Dr. Olli Tikkanen continues the conversation with José Näf, co-founder of Duracool, focusing on the design, functionality, and physiological impact of evaporative cooling vests. These vests use semi-permeable membranes to gradually release water vapor, providing long-lasting cooling without soaking the user.
José explains the technical design of their shoulder pads and vests, their application in both occupational settings and for individuals with medical conditions such as artificial menopause, and the importance of wearing them over—not under—clothing. Laboratory tests show their cooling performance lasts significantly longer than sponge-based vests, making them ideal for situations with moderate movement, like construction or low-intensity work in hot environments.
This episode is a must-listen for professionals and researchers interested in thermal comfort and performance under heat stress.
__________
This podcast episode is sponsored by Fibion Inc. | Better Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Research with Less Hassle
---
Collect, store and manage SB and PA data easily and remotely -
Discover ground-breaking Fibion SENS
---
SB and PA measurements, analysis, and feedback made easy.
Learn more about Fibion Research
---
Learn more about Fibion Sleep and Fibion Circadian Rhythm Solutions.
---
Fibion Kids - Activity tracking designed for children.
---
Collect self-report physical activity data easily and cost-effectively with Mimove.
---
Explore our Wearables, Experience sampling method (ESM), Sleep, Heart rate variability (HRV), Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity article collections for insights on related articles.
---
Refer to our article "Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Measurements" for an exploration of active and sedentary lifestyle assessment methods.
---
Learn about actigraphy in our guide: Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide.
---
Gain foundational ESM insights with "Introduction to Experience Sampling Method (ESM)" for a comprehensive overview.
---
Explore accelerometer use in health research with our article "Measuring Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Accelerometers ".
---
For an introduction to the fundamental aspects of HRV, consider revisiting our Ultimate Guide to Heart Rate Variability.
---
Follow the podcast on Twitter https://twitter.com/PA_Researcher
Follow host Dr Olli Tikkanen on Twitter https://twitter.com/ollitikkanen
Follow Fibion on Twitter https://twitter.com/fibion
https://www.youtube.com/@PA_Researcher
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8:06
Cool Science: How Cooling Vests Work & When to Use Them – José Näf (Pt1)
What are the real differences between evaporative, phase-changing, electronic, and ice-based cooling vests? Why are athletes, firefighters, and even lab workers turning to these technologies?
"Lean more about Nahtlos Duratrode electrodes at https://www.nahtlos.com/"
In this episode, Dr. Olli Tikkanen speaks with José Näf, co-founder of Duracool, to break down the science and real-life applications behind different cooling vest technologies. As global temperatures rise and performance demands increase, understanding these cooling systems becomes crucial in both sports and professional settings.
José explains the four main cooling vest technologies: evaporative, phase-changing materials, electronic cooling with fans, and traditional ice-based solutions. He highlights where each method fits best—from professional sports to protective lab gear—and discusses why evaporative cooling mimics the natural human sweating process, especially useful for those who cannot sweat. They also explore the scientific controversy around the post-exercise use of ice baths, and the true nature of "phase change" in cooling materials.
This is a quick but informative episode for researchers, athletes, and professionals interested in how technology helps regulate body temperature under extreme conditions.
____________
This podcast episode is sponsored by Fibion Inc. | Better Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Research with Less Hassle
---
Collect, store and manage SB and PA data easily and remotely -
Discover ground-breaking Fibion SENS
---
SB and PA measurements, analysis, and feedback made easy.
Learn more about Fibion Research
---
Learn more about Fibion Sleep and Fibion Circadian Rhythm Solutions.
---
Fibion Kids - Activity tracking designed for children.
---
Collect self-report physical activity data easily and cost-effectively with Mimove.
---
Explore our Wearables, Experience sampling method (ESM), Sleep, Heart rate variability (HRV), Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity article collections for insights on related articles.
---
Refer to our article "Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Measurements" for an exploration of active and sedentary lifestyle assessment methods.
---
Learn about actigraphy in our guide: Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide.
---
Gain foundational ESM insights with "Introduction to Experience Sampling Method (ESM)" for a comprehensive overview.
---
Explore accelerometer use in health research with our article "Measuring Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Accelerometers ".
---
For an introduction to the fundamental aspects of HRV, consider revisiting our Ultimate Guide to Heart Rate Variability.
---
Follow the podcast on Twitter https://twitter.com/PA_Researcher
Follow host Dr Olli Tikkanen on Twitter https://twitter.com/ollitikkanen
Follow Fibion on Twitter https://twitter.com/fibion
https://www.youtube.com/@PA_Researcher
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9:05
How to Reduce Skin Irritation in Long-Term ECG and HRV Measurements – José Näf (Pt4)
Can electrode design support both signal stability and sustainability?
José Näf explains how Nahtlos electrodes reduce waste and skin irritation while delivering high-quality data over time.
In this fourth episode, Dr. Olli Tikkanen and José Näf explore the technical and environmental details of electrode design for long-term HRV and ECG measurements. José discusses how offset connectors, biocompatible foil materials, and breathable adhesives improve comfort and data quality. He also explains the sustainability advantages of Nahtlos’ packaging and activation system, which extends product shelf life and cuts down on disposable waste.
The conversation expands into practical tips on cable management, adhesive reactions, and how to reduce motion artifacts during physical activity. They also touch on emerging opportunities in long-term EMG monitoring and multi-sensor wearable setups. This episode gives practical guidance for researchers, developers, and clinicians aiming for long-duration, high-quality physiological data.
__________
This podcast episode is sponsored by Fibion Inc. | Better Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Research with Less Hassle
---
Collect, store and manage SB and PA data easily and remotely -
Discover ground-breaking Fibion SENS
---
SB and PA measurements, analysis, and feedback made easy.
Learn more about Fibion Research
---
Learn more about Fibion Sleep and Fibion Circadian Rhythm Solutions.
---
Fibion Kids - Activity tracking designed for children.
---
Collect self-report physical activity data easily and cost-effectively with Mimove.
---
Explore our Wearables, Experience sampling method (ESM), Sleep, Heart rate variability (HRV), Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity article collections for insights on related articles.
---
Refer to our article "Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Measurements" for an exploration of active and sedentary lifestyle assessment methods.
---
Learn about actigraphy in our guide: Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide.
---
Gain foundational ESM insights with "Introduction to Experience Sampling Method (ESM)" for a comprehensive overview.
---
Explore accelerometer use in health research with our article "Measuring Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Accelerometers ".
---
For an introduction to the fundamental aspects of HRV, consider revisiting our Ultimate Guide to Heart Rate Variability.
---
Follow the podcast on Twitter https://twitter.com/PA_Researcher
Follow host Dr Olli Tikkanen on Twitter https://twitter.com/ollitikkanen
Follow Fibion on Twitter https://twitter.com/fibion
https://www.youtube.com/@PA_Researcher
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14:34
Electrode Innovations: Self-Humidifying Electrodes for Long-Term HRV and ECG Measurements– José Näf (Pt3)
Can electrode systems self-regulate moisture to keep data quality high for 10 days?
José Näf explains how Nahtlos’ innovative design improves both signal stability and skin comfort in long-term ECG and HRV tracking.
In this third episode, Dr. Olli Tikkanen continues the deep dive with José Näf into how advanced electrode technology is addressing the long-standing issues in long-term heart rate variability and ECG measurement. José introduces Nahtlos' breakthrough: a hybrid electrode with a water reservoir and a semi-permeable membrane that mimics natural sweating, maintaining low impedance and high-quality signals for up to 10 days.
They also explore how breathable adhesives, biocompatible conductive textiles, and precise material selection reduce skin irritation and improve patient comfort. José shares the testing process, from self-experimentation to hospital trials, and how their team developed their own standards for evaluating signal quality. This episode gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at how wearable ECG technology evolves from lab innovation to clinical use.
__________
This podcast episode is sponsored by Fibion Inc. | Better Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Research with Less Hassle
---
Collect, store and manage SB and PA data easily and remotely -
Discover ground-breaking Fibion SENS
---
SB and PA measurements, analysis, and feedback made easy.
Learn more about Fibion Research
---
Learn more about Fibion Sleep and Fibion Circadian Rhythm Solutions.
---
Fibion Kids - Activity tracking designed for children.
---
Collect self-report physical activity data easily and cost-effectively with Mimove.
---
Explore our Wearables, Experience sampling method (ESM), Sleep, Heart rate variability (HRV), Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity article collections for insights on related articles.
---
Refer to our article "Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Measurements" for an exploration of active and sedentary lifestyle assessment methods.
---
Learn about actigraphy in our guide: Exploring Actigraphy in Scientific Research: A Comprehensive Guide.
---
Gain foundational ESM insights with "Introduction to Experience Sampling Method (ESM)" for a comprehensive overview.
---
Explore accelerometer use in health research with our article "Measuring Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior with Accelerometers ".
---
For an introduction to the fundamental aspects of HRV, consider revisiting our Ultimate Guide to Heart Rate Variability.
---
Follow the podcast on Twitter https://twitter.com/PA_Researcher
Follow host Dr Olli Tikkanen on Twitter https://twitter.com/ollitikkanen
Follow Fibion on Twitter https://twitter.com/fibion
https://www.youtube.com/@PA_Researcher
Hello and Welcome to Physical Activity Researcher Podcast!
Physical Activity Researcher Podcast is the source of the latest research findings on all things related to physical activity, exercise, and health. World-renowned scientists and experts as guests in an informal and relaxed interview style format. New episodes on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
The podcast is for anyone who likes to learn scientific and evidence-based knowledge of physical activity, exercise, and health. Our listeners range from researchers to health and fitness professionals, and from inactive office workers to marathon runners.
Podcast has several series and hosts each concentrating on different aspects of physical activity:
Physical Activity Researcher Series
The latest research findings in exercise physiology, biomechanics, physical education, coaching sciences, sport psychology, epidemiology, and public health. These episodes are hosted by researcher and entrepreneur Dr Olli Tikkanen.
Meaningful Sport Series
Meaningful Sport is dedicated to the exploration of meaning and meaningful experiences in sport and physical activity. Many studies have revealed instrumental benefits of physical activity, but is there something more to it, and how does it contribute to meaningful lives? This series is led by Associate Professor Noora Ronkainen. The series provides inspiration for exploring the meaning and value in sport and physical activity for everyone.
Practitioner’s Viewpoint Series
Practitioner’s Viewpoint Series has health and fitness professionals as guests. How they see sedentary behaviour and physical activity in their work? What are the best practices to promote physical activity? This series is for you if you are a Personal Trainer, Physiotherapist, Medical Doctor, Health Coach, or anyone working as a health and fitness professional. This series is lead by physiotherapist MSc Liis Kukkonen.
Publishing schedule:
Tuesdays: Physical Activity Researcher Series
Friday: Meaningful Sport Series
Sundays: Practitioner’s Viewpoint Series.
+ Bonus episodes and republications of past highlight episodes
We hope you find value in the podcast!
-Podcasting team-
UK